THE NETWORK OF SCIENTIFIC ATTACHÉS
The Unit for Scientific and Technological Cooperation (UCST), which is part of the Directorate General for Country Promotion (DGSP) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI) aims to promote the diffusion of science and Italian technology abroad using a network of scientific experts (appointed under art. 168 of the Presidential Decree 18/1967), most of whom are chosen among people who have previously held public office in Italy. Scientific Attachés work for the strengthening of scientific and technological cooperation between countries and they organize activities in support of the actions carried out by Universities, Research and Business Entities. In addition to promoting the excellence of the Italian research system in the country in which they work and in the international accreditation organizations, the Attachés also act as a point of reference for both inter-institutional dialogue and the active Italian scientific community on the ground.