Download full text of the 2026 Own Plan for Research and Knowledge Transfer

The Own Plan for Research and Knowledge Transfer of the University of Jaén (UJA) seeks to promote multidisciplinary research of excellence with a gender perspective, in order to enhance the competitiveness and regional impact of the UJA. Despite previous efforts, the UJA recognizes challenges in securing external funding; therefore, this plan focuses on supporting research personnel in competitive regional, national, and international calls. The plan's criteria include encouraging project applications, driving research lines relevant to the region, stimulating early-career researchers, retaining talent, facilitating strategic project applications, and prioritizing the creation of Units of Excellence. Additionally, the plan aligns UJA's research with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the HRS4R human resources strategy, aiming to strengthen researchers' professional development and ensure equal opportunities. Finally, it highlights its alignment with the State Plan for Scientific, Technical and Innovation Research (PEICTI) and the Horizon Europe program.

The following four strategic lines fall under this plan:

• UJA RESEARCH

This Plan is aimed at encouraging participation in competitive calls (regional, national, and international) to increase external funding acquisition and boost the UJA's scientific competitiveness. This push materializes through decisive support for research personnel who lead and participate in projects from our institution.

Likewise, it aims to stimulate and support the generation, attraction, and retention of research talent as drivers of generational renewal, as well as to promote the quality and competitiveness of the University of Jaén's teaching and research staff. A large portion of available resources is allocated to this strategic line, structuring a comprehensive offer that accompanies researchers throughout all stages: from undergraduate beginnings and predoctoral training to postdoctoral specialization abroad and the subsequent incorporation of PhD holders for the consolidation of their own research lines.

• UJA INTERNATIONAL R&D&I

Promoting the internationalization of research by supporting our research personnel in both participating in and leading international projects and networks.

This line of action is designed to encourage application to international calls, providing the necessary tools so that our teaching and research staff can lead cutting-edge proposals and establish strategic alliances in the global research area.

• UJA TRANSFER

Boosting the transfer of knowledge generated through scientific-technical research via internal calls in lines oriented toward promoting innovation and transfer skills, in collaboration with companies and institutions. Likewise, it aims to support our research personnel in participating in collaborative research project proposals with companies, public institutions, or similar entities.

• COMPLEMENTARY ACTIONS

This axis groups cross-cutting actions designed to ensure optimal conditions for research activity. The Plan provides financial support for the maintenance and repair of critical equipment, as well as incentives for using the Central Research Support Services (SCAI). Furthermore, it drives the dissemination of knowledge by supporting UJA Publishing for the creation and accreditation of journals of excellence. Highlighting two strategic actions: Strategic Research Support Service (SAI), which offers guidance and funding to improve and adapt unfunded competitive projects that received high scores, and the co-financed incorporation of Research Project Managers, thus optimizing talent return and reducing the administrative burden in high-impact research. Finally, system sustainability is ensured through managing the availability of indirect costs derived from awarded external projects and/or grants, as well as providing essential spaces and resources for developing competitive projects.