The Mind, Brain and Behavior Research Center (CIMCYC) at the University of Granada has been recognized for its commitment to social progress through research and innovation within the Andalusian community.
In a ceremony held at the Chapel of the Museum of Contemporary Spanish Realism (MUREC) in Almería, the CIMCYC was honored with a Special Mention at the 13th Social Engagement Awards, hosted by the Forum of Social Councils of Andalusian Public Universities. These awards recognize institutions, companies and individuals working to strengthen the transfer of knowledge between universities and the social fabric.
The CIMCYC received the special mention in the Social Engagement category for university institutes, research centers and departments. The main winners in this category were IMPRONTA Granada (University of Granada) and Marca PUEBLO (University of Almería). Regarding the CIMCYC, the jury praised the center’s dedication to fostering societal progress through cutting-edge research in psychology and neuroscience with both national and international impact.
This special mention highlights the trajectory of the CIMCYC not only as a leader in scientific production—recognized as a María de Maeztu Unit of Excellence—but also as an institution committed to ensuring that such advances have a real and positive impact on the public. The ceremony was attended by María Ruz, Director of the CIMCYC; Pedro Guerra, Secretary; and Isabel Benítez Baena, member of the Governing Board. The Director emphasized that the knowledge generated at the CIMCYC seeks to improve people's quality of life and contribute to solving societal problems. Additionally, she highlighted the center's various efforts to engage in dialogue with the public and disseminate research findings.
Alongside the CIMCYC, the University of Granada played a prominent role in this edition, sharing the spotlight with the "Impronta Granada" project (awarded ex aequo in the same category). Other initiatives from the universities of Almería, Cádiz, Jaén and Pablo de Olavide were also recognized. The jury for this edition consisted of presidents from Andalusian social councils, the Confederation of Andalusian Business Owners, the Ministry of University, Research and Innovation of the Regional Government of Andalusia and a representative from the Association of Andalusian Public Universities.
The primary mission of the Forum of Social Councils of Andalusian Public Universities is to connect higher education with its social and economic environment. These awards aim to incentivize public-private collaboration and recognize the efforts of research groups to provide solutions to the current challenges facing Andalusian society.