CREATION OF THE UCC
The Science Communication Unit (UCC) was created on October 12, 2022, as a unit attached to the Research Management Directorate (DGI) of the Vice Presidency of Research at the University of Costa Rica.

This entity is responsible for organizing and strategically managing the processes and activities related to the communication of science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship with both internal and external audiences (Moreno Salas, L., 2015).

It aims to integrate the science communication strategies scattered across its attached units in order to address the communication needs of Costa Rican society regarding science and the limited connection the public has with this topic (Network for Science, Technology, and Innovation Communication, 2012).

The unit is made up of an interdisciplinary team of people specialized in different areas of knowledge, focused on carrying out activities and processes related to science communication.

The general policies regarding the communication of science, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship developed by the Science Communication Unit will be defined in accordance with the regulations set forth in the UCR Research Regulations and the previously mentioned institutional norms, as well as the priorities established by the Vice Presidency of Research. For this purpose, it may seek advice from experts on the subject when deemed necessary.

GENERAL OBJECTIVES

• Support the fulfillment of the goals and functions of the University of Costa Rica.
• Contribute to the process of guidance, training, and informing the community within the framework established by the UCR’s Organic Statute, the Research Regulations, university policies, the Institutional Communication Regulations, and other related regulations.
• Contribute to strengthening the scientific research at the University of Costa Rica.
• Develop means and spaces for analysis and discussion that allow Costa Rican society to benefit from the products of university research.

FUNCTIONS OF THE UCC

1. Coordination and Planning
   Coordinate and plan communication activities for the Vice Presidency of Research at the UCR with other entities, organizations, and media, both internal and national/international.
2. Information Production
   Produce communication and dissemination content specialized in the field of scientific research, as well as other communication tools for research units such as videos, audio, newsletters, documents, brochures, graphic products, among others.
    Additionally, messages will be produced in various formats and languages for specific sectors of target audiences, both internal and external, media, or storage in databases, according to the annual work plan of the Science Communication Unit.
3. Advisory and Training
   Manage advisory, training, and support in science communication for staff of the Vice Presidency of Research at the UCR, as well as researchers and staff from academic and research units.

          Furthermore, the Unit serves as a space for university students to carry out their academic internships in activities related to the Unit’s work.

4. Analysis and Evaluation
   Analyze the internal communication practices of the Vice Presidency of Research at the UCR. Also, evaluate and systematize information to be communicated to different audiences and analyze information published in university, national, and international media to provide feedback on the Unit’s work.
5. Research
   Promote research development on topics related to science communication, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship at public universities and other institutions, in order to increase the knowledge base on the subject and improve professional performance and enhance the work of the Unit.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE COORDINATOR

1.) Define, in coordination with the work team, the topics to be developed in the media, platforms, and networks of the Vice Presidency of Research at the UCR.

2.) Coordinate the annual and operational planning of the activities of the Science Communication Unit (UCC) and submit it to the relevant individuals or entities.

3.) Coordinate with the professionals and assistants of the UCC the topics of interest for the Vice Presidency of Research and the UCR, as well as the type of product to be developed according to the platform or medium in which it will be published.

4.) Oversee the general coordination of the platforms, media, social networks, and multimedia production managed or administered by the Vice Presidency of Research.

5.) Review and edit communication products created by collaborators for different platforms, media, and networks.

6.) Review the layout, design, content, and quality of products for print, audiovisual, and electronic media, both internal and external.

7.) Evaluate the communication media and platforms of the Vice Presidency of Research at the UCR.

8.) Coordinate with internal and external entities, media, and individuals at the UCR on topics related to institutional communication.

9.) Represent the UCC at university, national, or international networks or entities, or designate individuals to substitute if unable to participate.

10.) Perform other duties related to the position and the Science Communication Unit.