Catalonia is viewed as one of the pillars of knowledge along the Mediterranean, whereas it is home to the National Pact for the Research and Innovation (PNRI), developed by the Department of Innovation, Universities, and Businesses.

Today Catalonia produces approximately one percent of the world scientific findings, 2.5% of those in the European Union, and is responsible for 25% of production in Spain. It is the fifth largest region in Europe devoted to science and technology, with around 600,000 jobs in the field in 2007 (according to Eurostat).  Of these jobs, 40,000 were in the research industry, with 25,000 people working as researchers.

The politics of science in Catalonia have been especially articulated according to the research plans for the Generalitat de Catalonia, for the articulation of the state plans of the Spanish government and the programs that help in the aiding of research in the European Union.

The Plan of Research and Innovation (PRI) of 2010-2013 is the main instrument through which the Administration of the Generalitat de Catalonia will be carrying out the planning, formation, and coordination of research and innovation in the country. It is also the fundamental instrument that will sustain the development of the National Pact for the Research and Innovation (PNRI) during the next four years.

The plan will cover the time period 2010- 2013, with the completion to coincide with the European plan (the 7th research and technological development of the European Union which is being executed during the period 2007-2013.)

The Catalan system of research and innovation is especially integrated with the universities, as it serves as the administrative centres of public research (CERCA), as well as the base for the Catalan Health Services, and state sponsored research institutions (CSIC) and research, development, and innovation departments of businesses.

Interesting links:

• Oficina de Suport  l’Investigador
  
• Ocupabilitat RDI  (provisional)
• Talència
  
  

Research Centers: