The Research Grants Program at the Puerto Rico Science, Technology and Research Trust had the distinct honor of co-designing and participating in the afternoon session of Day 1 at the ARIS 2025 Summit (Advancing Research Impact in Society). This special session was developed in collaboration with Ciencia Puerto Rico and the AAAS Caribbean Division.

The session served as a platform to highlight how research conducted in Puerto Rico not only advances scientific knowledge but also drives real and lasting impact across communities. From science that responds to pressing societal needs to innovation that promotes resilience and progress, Puerto Rico continues to strengthen its position as a hub of meaningful research and discovery.

During the session, Andreica Maldonado, Director of the Research Grants Program, presented the Trust’s efforts to invest in and support the local research ecosystem. She showcased the program’s ongoing impact by highlighting the work of several exemplary grantees, whose projects reflect the diverse and transformative nature of research taking place across the island.

Following her remarks, Dr. Kevin Alicea-Torres (AAAS Caribbean Division) and Dr. Mónica Feliú-Mójer (Ciencia Puerto Rico) shared insights into the initiatives their respective organizations are leading to expand access to and engagement with science in Puerto Rico and beyond.

The session concluded with compelling presentations from three scientists whose work exemplifies the intersection of research and societal relevance. Among them were two Trust-supported researchers — Dr. Filipa Godoy-Vitorino and Dr. Idhaliz Flores — joined by Prof. Ángel A. Acosta-Colón from the University of Puerto Rico at Arecibo. Together, they underscored the value of conducting science that addresses real-world challenges and directly benefits our communities.

At the Trust, we remain proud to support a growing research ecosystem in Puerto Rico — one grounded in excellence, driven by purpose, and committed to lasting impact both locally and globally.

About the Puerto Rico Science, Technology, and Research Trust:

The Puerto Rico Science, Technology, and Research Trust, as described in Public Law 214, is a private nonprofit organization established in 2004 to promote the Island’s participation and job creation in the global knowledge economy by promoting investments and financing for research and development in science and technology. It invests, facilitates, and develops capacities that continually advance Puerto Rico’s economy and the well-being of its citizens through research and development-based enterprises, science and technology, public health, and innovation, aiming for Puerto Rico to be a globally recognized center of innovation. For more information: www.prsciencetrust.org.