1.

Research and innovation are essential drivers of progress and social welfare, but they are not exempt from creating new risks and ethical dilemmas that affect us all.

UPF is committed to a cross-disciplinary model of responsible research and innovation (RRI) within the framework of the university’s social responsibility policy. This model includes, amongst other things, a commitment to gender mainstreaming, ethical responsibility, open access, science education, and community engagement. 

2.

In short, decisions regarding research and innovation have to be not only acceptable, but also socially desirable.

The creation, in 2013, of the Office of the Vice-rector for Social Responsibility and Promotion, since renamed the Office of the Vice-Rector for Social Commitment and Equality, and, in late 2014, of the Internal Committee for the Ethical Review of Projects, reflects the firm commitment to mainstream RRI and integrate it into all the university’s activities.

3.

Furthermore, not only do we pursue this commitment with our researchers, but we also extend it to our students. It is essential to introduce RRI into university education, because today’s students will be tomorrow’s researchers, engineers, lawmakers and doctors. It is thus vital for them to acquire skills that will allow them to listen to society and incorporate its values into their professional practice.

4.

Responsible research and innovation are the main theme of the premiere issue of the digital magazine 360upf. This new UPF magazine will also help to bridge the gap between UPF and society, whilst at the same time positioning us at the forefront of innovation in communication in the field of higher education.

5.

The new dynamics of content consumption, especially amongst young people, require us to reflect on how we relate to our environment and to adapt to the new communication channels. Last academic year, we revamped the UPF website to meet the needs of our users, more mobile today than even just five years ago. This year, we are taking another step and turning our magazine into a digital product to eliminate borders, offer new content, and enable customized distribution catering to each reader’s interests. 

6.

This step will additionally help reduce UPF’s environmental footprint, thereby contributing to environmental sustainability, in keeping with the university’s commitment to social responsibility.

Jaume Casals,
Rector of the Pompeu Fabra University

7. Profiles

“We have to allow students to make more decisions, but also give them more responsibilities”

12. Zoom

"Never say it can’t be done. You need to understand that there are a lot of available resources"