UNICAL & STAR

The University of Calabria has been dedicated for over 40 years to developing and managing a research system equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories. In this system, fundamental research is integrated with applied research and technology transfer across various scientific and technological fields, such as engineering and life sciences.

In the past decade, several major initiatives have been launched, resulting in the creation of a research infrastructure valued at over 50 million euros. This infrastructure includes dedicated buildings spanning more than 4,500 square meters. By consolidating resources acquired during this period into a single area and establishing highly interconnected facilities, the University has created a true Technology Hub within its campus. This hub is strategically located near the engineering and scientific departments, fostering synergies and collaboration.

The University of Calabria also boasts a comprehensive technology transfer system, which includes the business incubator Technest. Managed by the University's Liaison Office, one of the most active in Southern Italy, Technest has earned numerous national and international awards for its successful startup and spinoff companies. All of these facilities are located in close proximity to one another and interact regularly.

In the same area of the campus, two additional research infrastructures—Beyond Nano, managed by the National Research Council (CNR), and Re.Ca.S., operated by the National Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN)—have been implemented. These two institutions work in close collaboration with the University of Calabria, which houses some of their laboratories. Additionally, several university researchers involved in the STAR project are affiliated with both CNR and INFN.