January 12, 2023
The development of a new training program that meets the need for new professionals in the lithium industry is one of the goals of the Center.
The board of directors of the Centre for Research, Development, and Innovation in the Lithium Battery Value Chain held its second session at the Central House of the Universidad Católica del Norte (UCN) to discuss the consolidation plan for the period of 2023. Dr. Hernán Cáceres, dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Geological Sciences (FICG), provided an update on the initiative's progress during the event.
The meeting focused on planning the Centre and establishing milestones for its launch in 2023. This includes signing agreements with renowned international institutions, developing a training program for advanced human capital, expanding infrastructure, and ensuring a timely inauguration of the facilities.
In this regard, the dean of the FICG, Hernán Cáceres, stated, "We have achieved a significant milestone during the second board session of this project. We have integrated more than 40 academics and are aiming to incorporate 50 undergraduate and graduate students in important research and project applications that will expand the impact of this center. Furthermore, we have established partnerships with international entities that will aid us in the development of our strategic plan for the center".
In attendance at the second board session were UCN's Rector, Dr. Rodrigo Alda Varas; UCN's Vice Rector for Research and Technological Development, Rodrigo Sfeir; SQM's Nitrates Iodine Communities and Public Affairs Manager, Pablo Pisani; SQM's Innovation and Development Manager, Osvaldo Yáñez; and the Dean of the School of Engineering and Geological Sciences, Dr. Hernán Cáceres.
On the occasion, UCN's Rector Rodrigo Alda mentioned, "We have been able to confirm significant progress in the various lines of work that, beyond the activities developed, allow us to project a 2023 where much more evident findings regarding the formation of multidisciplinary work teams within the UCN, with different academic units involved, will begin to be seen, which makes us very satisfied."
Planning 2023
At the meeting, the board of the UCN Lithium Battery R+D+i Center approved a series of actions to be conducted this year that are essential for its consolidation, as well as the definition of a name for the Center, its mission, and vision.
In January, agreements are expected to be signed with prestigious international research centers whose objectives are incorporating know-how for the different lines of research of the Center and promoting the exchange of knowledge, research, and academic activities, as well as supporting the achievement of the strategic objectives.
A new training program that meets the need for new professionals in the lithium industry is also one of the Center's goals, considering that the region has immense potential for development in the mining sector and renewable energies, specifically in the technological field of extraction, processing, and maintenance processes.
"We think it is very important that the university adapts to the changes and requirements that are happening, especially in the lithium industry, in order to meet future challenges. Ten years ago, lithium was not talked about as it is today, so it is relevant for the university to analyze where greater capabilities are needed and to develop them quickly to adapt to the changes that are already happening," said Osvaldo Yáñez, SQM's Innovation and Development Manager.
The session concluded with the analysis of the proposal to consolidate new infrastructure in line with the development of advanced human capital and the level of technology transfer to be implemented by the Lithium Battery R+D+i Center. The Center will begin to share its progress with the community through an international seminar planned for the first half of this year.