The Federal University of Rio Grande (FURG) signed, on September 16, 2026, an Academic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation Agreement with the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC – Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas). The partnership originated from an initiative by FURG's School of Chemistry and Food Science (EQA) and expands the university's international cooperation network.

The agreement was signed by FURG's Rector, Suzane da Rocha Vieira Gonçalves, and CSIC's Vice President for International Relations, Dr. Isabel Martínez Sierra.

Goals of the cooperation

The agreement establishes joint activities between the two institutions, including:

• joint research projects, including efforts to secure international funding;
• courses and continuing education programs, offered in person or remotely;
• sharing of laboratory resources and research infrastructure, whenever possible and of mutual interest.

Academic mobility

As part of the planned activities, a doctoral student exchange lasting 9 months is scheduled for 2026, along with a faculty member's participation in an academic mission. Over the course of the agreement, at least two more doctoral or postdoctoral student exchanges are expected between the institutions.

The document is administrative in nature and represents a declaration of intent, signed in good faith by both institutions, which commit to jointly seeking solutions for any issues arising from its implementation. Specific actions and projects stemming from this agreement will be detailed through Addenda or Specific Agreements, as needed.

The cooperation with CSIC — one of Spain's leading research institutions — reinforces FURG's commitment to internationalization and high-quality scientific production.