The Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) is a Research Unit of the University of Aveiro (UA), founded in 2002, with the status of Laboratório Associado/Associated Laboratory since 2005, evaluated with the highest grade of Excellent since 2014.
Based on the “One Health” approach, which recognises the interconnection between human, animal and environmental health, CESAM’s Mission is to develop transdisciplinary and transformative research to address environmental and marine challenges. Through both fundamental and applied research, it promotes sustainable solutions for the management and conservation of natural resources, biodiversity, and the well-being of ecosystems and humanity. Taking into account global change processes, CESAM actively contributes to policy development and decision-making support. Caring for the Future.
CESAM’s Vision is to consolidate its position as an international centre of excellence in environmental and marine sciences. Research, both fundamental and applied, focuses on the study of interactions between the atmosphere, soils, rivers, transitional waters and the ocean, promoting an integrated approach to natural systems. It aims to generate knowledge on climate change, biodiversity and sustainability, strengthen the link between science and policy, and support informed decision-making at national and international levels.
To fulfill our mission and achieve impactful solutions, CESAM’s Ambitions are to:
1. Foster collaboration, open and cross innovation both within CESAM and with external partners, to accelerate the development of new knowledge and solutions.
2. Promote evidence-based policies and practices for a resilient and sustainable future.
3. Emphasize multi- and transdisciplinary approaches, international cooperation, and stakeholder engagement, underpinned by transformative research methodologies.
The Core Values of CESAM reflect our commitment to conduct ethical research, fostering innovation, and by working together to create positive changes for a sustainable and resilient future. They are:
1. Excellence, Integrity, and Innovation: We strive for research excellence, whether fundamental or applied, upholding the highest ethical standards and fostering a culture of innovation to push the boundaries of environmental sciences.
2. Academic and Research Freedom: We embrace academic and research freedom, encouraging diverse ideas and perspectives to drive knowledge advancement and transformative discoveries, under ethical rules, scientific integrity and open access.
3. Sustainability and Responsibility: We promote sustainable solutions, taking responsibility for our environmental impact to ensure the well-being of ecosystems and future generations.
4. Inclusivity and Diversity: We value inclusivity, diversity and gender balance within CESAM, recognizing the power of different perspectives in tackling environmental challenges comprehensively.
5. Transformative Collaboration: We actively engage with stakeholders, forging collaborations to ensure the relevance and societal impact of our research, and fostering innovation through collective efforts.