ANNUAL REPORT 2023
Challenges
We strive to become a center of reference to create innovative solutions to water-related problems
In order to face the challenges society faces in relation to the integrated management of water-associated socioecological systems, it is necessary to be furnished with the best scientific knowledge and with a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach, for the transfer of such knowledge to society. In order to attain such goals, it is necessary to attract, consolidate and retain talent as well as to obtain the necessary funding to accomplish it. These are some of the challenges and barriers to be faced by IHCantabria; challenges that we believe may turn into opportunities to reinforce our position and to significantly contribute to the progress of research and sustainable development.
Research and development challenges
As a research centre, we are required to rely on the best knowledge and technologies in order to develop our R&D projects. With this in mind, a number of initiatives have been implemented this year in order to develop cross-disciplinary knowledge and technologies that allow research to provide integrated solutions. Working groups have been established to carry out research in Artificial Intelligence or Nature-Based Solutions. Besides, a Remote Sensing Team has been created for reinforcing advanced technologies with a cross-disciplinary approach. of our institute.
Talent recruitment and retention challenge
Our institute faces significant challenges to recruit talent for key areas such as civil engineering, naval architecture and information technology due to the high market demand that is above research in attractiveness and competitiveness. The consolidation of qualified researchers is a challenge expected to be faced by the recent Science, Technology and Innovation Act of Cantabria, which should provide a trustworthy framework for the development of a comprehensive professional career for researchers. In spite of these challenges, our institute remains optimistic about the growth potential and the attractiveness of our fields of interest for future researchers.
Funding
IHCantabria has a funding model where core public funding currently represents a small part of the overall budget. Although the situation has improved in the last three years, our funding relies heavily on the attraction of resources from competitive programs or open bids. This has been a successful model and one for which IHCantabria has received external recognition. However, it negatively affects the intensification of research which is the intended essential strategic goal. Thus, one of the most important challenges to face in the very near future is achieving a core funding able to support a sustainable growth of our research initiatives.
