DPCT

Department of Science and Technology Policy - DPCT

The Department of Science and Technology Policy (DPCT) was created as part of the Institute of Geosciences in 1985 by Professor Amílcar Herrera. Professor Herrera also founded the Institute. From the outset, the Department has conducted research on topics related to Science and Technology Policy, being the pioneer in this area in Brazil and Latin America. DPCT takes the perspective that the evolution of Science and Technology is a social process and, as such, is shaped by political, economic and cultural factors. Thus, the Department has been conducting both multi and interdisciplinary research since its creation. This factor is reflected in the profile of its research groups and faculty members and in their research projects; which has been conducted both in Brazil and internationally in two main sub-areas (innovation studies and social studies of science and technology). DPCT has been recognized as one of the leading research centers in Science and Technology Policy in Latin America.

DPCT's pioneering vision was also reflected in the creation of its Graduate Program in Science and Technology Policy Studies (PPG-PCT), the first of its kind in Brazil and in Latin America. The Programme started with a Master's degree in 1988, this was followed by the creation of the Doctorate degree in 1995. Mirroring the Department, the PPG-PCT has been interdisciplinary in nature, work is carried out in the following research areas:

• History and Theories of Science and Technology;
• Science and Technology in the Process of Development;
• Science and Technology Strategies and Social Actors;
• Technological Change, Social Transformations and Environment;
• Science, Technology and Innovation Management.

In 1998, following the creation of undergraduate degrees in Geography and Geology by the Institute, the Department started offering policy-related modules. Teaching activities in both degrees is interdisciplinary in nature, and students get in contact with research conducted by the departmental faculty.

DPCT carries out outreach activities such as extension courses. It also houses the Brazilian Journal of Innovation (RBI), the main Brazilian journal on topics related to science, technology and innovation.