ANID’s Technological Centers for Innovation were designed to bring together cutting-edge research groups that collaboratively address challenges in Chilean productive sectors through an interdisciplinary approach. Their goal is to increase innovation in the national economy through R&D projects that include human capital training, technological services, and technological adaptation, contributing to the Science, Technology, Knowledge, and Innovation (CTCI) ecosystem.
In its 2025 call, ANID announced funding for six technological centers, two of which feature significant participation from professors at the UC School of Engineering.
INNOVATION CENTER FOR SUSTAINABLE ENERGY TRANSITION (SET)
Led by Professor Mario Toledo from Federico Santa María Technical University, SET aims to drive the country’s sustainable energy transition through advanced R&D, human capital development, and technology transfer focused on clean and efficient energy solutions. It works side by side with public and private sectors, academia, and the entrepreneurial ecosystem to decarbonize the national energy matrix, strengthen local capabilities, and promote the adoption of new technologies. Its actions include creating national and international networks and contributing to scientific-technological dissemination to position Chile as a benchmark in energy innovation. This collaboration will enable greater impact on productivity, sustainability, and training specialized talent in energy technologies. Assistant Professor Wolfram Jahn from the Department of Mechanical and Metallurgical Engineering will participate in this new center as an Associate Researcher.
WATER TECHNOLOGICAL CONSORTIUM (COTH2O)
The Water Technological Consortium (COTH2O), directed by Professor Octavio Lagos from the University of Concepción, was selected by ANID to renew its funding for 5 years, continuing the development and transfer of technological solutions for integrated, efficient, and sustainable water management in Chile, contributing to addressing water scarcity and improving the country’s resilience. The Faculty of Engineering participates in this center by contributing capabilities in applied research and development of technologies for water resource regeneration and reuse, training advanced human capital, and liaising with companies and public organizations.
In this consolidation stage, COTH2O will include the participation of Associate Professor Eduardo Leiva from the Department of Hydraulic and Environmental Engineering as an Associate Researcher; and professors Ignacio Vargas and Rodrigo Labatut from the same department as Adjunct Researchers, contributing to the consortium with research lines related to new technologies for the treatment and reuse of domestic and industrial wastewater, enhancing the impact of solutions that enable more sustainable water use in productive sectors and communities.
Through their participation in these major collaborative initiatives in applied research that closely link national universities with various productive sectors, the professors of the UC School of Engineering reaffirm their commitment to the country’s sustainability, competitiveness, and well-being.
