The Materials Science and Engineering Research Center (CICIMA) is pioneer in the study of nanotechnology in Costa Rica and probably throughout Central America, is a scientific and technological research unit of multidisciplinary character dedicated to the study at the microscopic level of physical and chemical properties of materials, for their development and adaptation in industrial processes.

Its main objective is to develop scientific research in the different fields of Mathematics, linking its activities with scientific and academic centers of the country. It offers advisory and consultancy services on specific topics such as the use of Internet in Mathematics Education and the use of graphing calculator in Education, among others.

It promotes research and social outreach to expand knowledge and improve human wellbeing. Research and social action are guided by a high professional ethics oriented to serve human beings, and in accordance with the principles of the anthropological discipline and the Organic Statute of the University of Costa Rica. Likewise, the relationship with research carried out by students, teaching and the work of national and international academic units related to the CIAN is sought.

It is a multidisciplinary scientific research unit that investigates natural products economically exploitable from a chemical and industrial point of view, to develop or adapt appropriate technologies for the production of non-traditional agroindustrial products, which require a high technological component. It offers repetitive services, advising, consulting, and training in related topics.