CBioClima: A new step in scientific research on Biodiversity and Climate Change
CBioClima is Fapesp's first Research, Innovation and Diffusion Center (CEPID) based at Unesp, marking a significant advance in scientific research. This innovative center is dedicated to understanding biodiversity loss in the face of the climate crisis.
The opening of the event was attended by Professor Maysa Furlan, vice-rector of Unesp; Professor Edson Cocchieri Botelho, Pro-Rector of Research at Unesp; Professor Adalgiso Coscrato Cardozo, Director of IB-Unesp; Professor Patrícia Morellato, Director of CBioClima; and Professor Carlos Frederico de Oliveira Graeff, of FAPESP.
Patrícia Morellato, head of CBioClima, emphasized the relevance of the topic in the context of climate change. "There has never been a CEPID with this topic, and it is a very current topic: understanding the loss of biodiversity in the face of the climate crisis we are experiencing today," said Morellato. Maurício Bacci Júnior, vice-director, highlighted the 16 years of work that culminated in the creation of CBioClima.
Regarding the importance of financing, Edson Cocchieri Botelho highlighted: “CEPID promotes quality research in a network, bringing together all units of the university. From north to south of the state of São Paulo, we managed to bring together highly qualified researchers in a large common project.”
The head of CBioClima, Patrícia Morellato reinforced that the University promptly attended the demand for hiring managers. “We already have two managers, a technician, and four open competitions to hire more full-time employees to work at the center,” she said. Maysa Furlan added: “The institution is responsible for maintaining the entire personnel infrastructure and physical infrastructure so that CEPID can truly fulfill its role, which is to bring cutting-edge knowledge to the areas it proposes to discuss.”
Adalgiso Coscrato Cardozo, director of the Biosciences Institute of the Rio Claro Campus, emphasized that “All the experience acquired at CEPID will be disseminated within society, in local and national media, and this know-how will bring very important fruits to the population close to the campus and the region.”
Internationalization, Innovation and Dissemination
Internationalization, innovation and dissemination are central points for CBioClima. Vitor de Miranda, Internationalization Coordinator, highlighted the relevance of international collaboration as a fundamental pillar. "Collaboration with international institutions not only raises the quality of our research, but also expands the possibilities for innovation and knowledge exchange," he said.
Mauro Galetti, Dissemination Coordinator, emphasized the importance of disseminating the results to society. "It is crucial that society has access to the discoveries and innovations generated at CBioClima. The effective dissemination of results can transform scientific knowledge into practical solutions to everyday problems," highlighted Galetti.
Leonardo Fraceto also highlighted the center's mission to bring the fruits of innovation to society. "Our objective is to ensure that the innovation generated at CEPID can help solve society's problems, meeting the expectations and needs of the population," he concluded.
Impact on the Community and Careers of Researchers
This approach reinforces CBioClima's commitment to scientific excellence and social responsibility, always seeking to integrate academic knowledge with the demands and challenges of society. CBioClima not only stands out for its dissemination of scientific knowledge, but also for the significant impact it has on both researchers and the community.
Lara Santello, phd student, highlighted the excellence of the scientists involved in CBioClima and the security provided by the funding guaranteed by Fapesp until 2033. "The presence of renowned researchers and continuous financial support create an environment conducive to cutting-edge scientific advances," stated Santello.
Diego Assis, postdoctoral researcher, sees CBioClima as a unique opportunity to generate knowledge and develop solutions that benefit society. "Working at CBioClima allows us not only to deepen our scientific understanding, but also to apply this knowledge in a practical way to solve real problems," highlighted Assis.
Saura Silva, a researcher at CBioClima, reinforced her colleagues' vision, emphasizing the center's parity with globally renowned institutions. "My experience as a research fellow allowed me to see that our center is on par with the best institutions in the world in terms of academic excellence and research capacity. This motivates me even more to seek new challenges that bring benefits to the preservation of biodiversity and, consequently, for society," declared Silva.
Opportunities for Young Researchers
Rodrigo Valim, bachelor student of Ecology, Unesp Rio Claro, explained that "As an undergraduate student in Ecology and participant in a scientific initiation project, CBioClima provides a solid foundation for those starting their scientific career. The center not only offers opportunities for international experience, but also secure funding. Since its creation, CBioClima has already established itself as a reference center for research quality, which is extremely motivating for us, young researchers.
Rafaela Forti, Master's student linked to CBioClima, explained: "Having been born and graduated in Biological Sciences in a region that is home to one of the best research centers on the planet is a source of great pride. The proximity of CBioClima to my home allows me to dedicate myself I can fully pursue my master's research. With this cutting-edge infrastructure and ongoing support, I feel there are no limits to what I can achieve in my academic career."
With the commitment of promoting academic excellence and preserving biodiversity, CBioClima aims to integrate scientific research with the needs of the community, ensuring benefits for both researchers and society as a whole.
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