The University Research Center - SIU - is an advanced project created by the University of Antioquia to promote a qualitative and quantitative transformation of its research system. Through the SIU, the University  plans to contribute to the knowledge society by making research, innovation and technological development pillars for the construction of a fairer and more competitive Colombia.

Within the SIU there are currently 36 research groups of excellence, classified by Colciencias as categories A and B, working in diverse areas such as biotechnology, chemistry, materials science, genetics, environment, immunology, infectious and tropical diseases, among others. All of these groups carry out high quality research that contributes to the status of the University of Antioquia as a research university.

Along with providing facilities for the development of scientific and technological projects, the purpose of the SIU is to encourage interdisciplinary work, promote synergy between the member groups, and cooperation between the local and national research community and researchers in other countries.

* Colciencias –Instituto Colombiano para el Desarrollo de la Ciencia y la Tecnología, Francisco José de Caldas. This is the Colombian government orqanization responsible for the development and support of scientific research in the country.