CISeAL

The Center for Research in Health in Latin America (CISeAL) was established through a strategic partnership between the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador (PUCE) and the Infectious and Tropical Diseases Institute (ITDI) at Ohio University. This collaboration was conceived to strengthen biological and biomedical research, advance epidemiological surveillance, and support education and training programs in response to the need to expand Ecuador’s research capacity.

CISeAL’s mission is to serve as an international platform for scientific collaboration that promotes knowledge generation, strengthens education, and improves population health. The Center operates under a strategic approach based on defined priorities that guide both its research projects and academic programs, with impact at the local and national levels.

Located on PUCE’s Nayón campus, CISeAL comprises approximately 100,000 square feet of research infrastructure designed to host up to 22 research groups. The Center features Biosafety Level 2 and 3 laboratories, as well as specialized facilities including an insectary and an animal facility, all equipped with advanced technology. This environment supports the development of high-quality biomedical research in compliance with international standards of quality, biosafety, and scientific management.

CISeAL has established itself as a leading research center in Latin America, known for its strong technical capacity, international partnerships, and sustained contributions to advancing research, generating scientific evidence, and improving public health in Ecuador and the region.