Mission
The Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) is a public research organisation under the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities. It forms part of the Spanish System for Science, Technology and Innovation (SECTI) and conducts both basic and applied research across all areas of human knowledge. CSIC’s mission is to promote, coordinate, develop and disseminate multidisciplinary scientific and technological research in order to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and to economic, social and cultural development, as well as to provide training and to offer advice to public and private entities in these fields.
The research carried out by CSIC is transferred to public administrations and to civil society, thereby contributing to addressing numerous contemporary challenges related to the ecological transition, the scarcity of raw materials, safeguarding public health, digitalisation, social inclusion, employment, and the quality of democracy. These priorities are reflected in the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan and are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. CSIC also contributes to strengthening the strategic autonomy of both Spain and the European Union, ensuring that excellence in science and knowledge is produced within both spheres and fostering partnerships with other European countries and with the rest of the world.
Vision
CSIC plays a fundamental role in the Spanish scientific ecosystem, given both the impact and quality of its research and its relative weight within the SECTI. Its activity influences the overall direction of research in Spain. CSIC must remain committed to the development of excellent research at the forefront of science in order to act as a driving force for scientific advancement in the country. Furthermore, the science it produces must be committed to improving the living conditions of people and of the planet.
Functions
In order to fulfil both its mission and vision, CSIC carries out a range of activities structured around the following core areas:
- Generation of knowledge through scientific and technical research
- Transfer of knowledge and technology
- Provision of expert advice to public administrations and private institutions
- Pre-doctoral and post-doctoral training and highly qualified training
- Scientific outreach and promotion of scientific culture
- Promotion of scientific presence at the international level
- Promotion and management of large research infrastructures
- Independent scientific and technical assistance to public administrations