Strengthening the Research Culture Through an Innovative Model of Scientific Initiation Articulated University-Industry in Undergraduate and Postgraduate Studies

This project addresses the existing gap in student participation in research and the limited articulation between academia and the productive sector in Ecuador. Through the Salesian Polytechnic University (UPS), an institutional scientific initiation (SI) model is proposed, integrating mentorships, academic writing workshops, and university-industry collaboration mechanisms. The core problem lies in the weak institutionalization of SI and the lack of capabilities for technology transfer. The methodology is divided into four phases: diagnosis, collaborative design, implementation of a pilot at the Guayaquil campus, and systematic evaluation. The pilot will involve mixed teams of students and faculty working on applied solutions with industrial relevance. The project seeks to foster international co-authorship and open access, ensuring the protection of intellectual property without limiting academic production. Expected results include an increase in student participation, the publication of articles in indexed journals (Scopus), and the creation of a replicable methodological guide. This model will not only strengthen students' research competencies but also contribute to the democratization of science and the fulfillment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4 and 9), establishing a sustainable structure for future research.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>Strengthen the research culture at the Salesian Polytechnic University by designing and implementing an institutional model for scientific initiation. This model aims to articulate collaboration between undergraduate, graduate, and industry sectors to improve scientific production and social relevance.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Quality and productivity in the industrial and service sector<br/>Quantitative analysis in safety, occupational health and risk management