Renovated, the marine station of the University of Caen wants to be a “showcase of research”
By Writing Caen
Published on
A Luke on the sea (Calvados), CREC (Coastal Environment Research Center) hosts marine research units from theUniversity of Caen. Cécile Bellanger, teacher-researcher, explains that the studies relate to: “chemistry, marine biology, species of marine organisms, the development of biodiversity, the evolution of the coast”.
The CREC is interested in the study of ecosystems and organisms with innovative approaches to better understand the complexity of living things and the evolution of the marine environment. The use of cutting-edge technologies, combined with controlled laboratory experiments on different organisms, enables the center to develop fundamental and applied research.
Since 1879
The University of Caen acquired this marine station in 1879. It has evolved over the centuries, was restored in the 1960s and 1980s. A serious facelift is needed: in 2018, a large program of The rehabilitation of the CREC was launched with the support of the Normandy Region, the State, Europe (FEDER) and the University of Caen Normandy.
The CREC is a unique laboratory in Normandy. The Region is supporting this vast renovation project, which should bring the buildings up to current research standards and thus consolidate the centre’s projects.
The end of the phase 1 work is scheduled for the coming weeks, the inauguration for September or October.
“Research Showcase”
Architect Tony Malandin presented the main stages of the construction visitors and a conclusion: “the building will be a research showcase for national and international researchers”.
9.2 million investments
The total cost of the work amounts to 9.2 million euros. The renovation of the CREC is articulated in two phases, the first of which will therefore be completed in the coming weeks. Amounting to 5.2 million, this phase 1 is the subject of funding of 3.25 million € (including 1.5 million euros from the European Regional Development Fund) by the Normandy Region, €750,000 from the State, and self-financing from the university to the tune of €1.2 million. The second phase is estimated at 4 million euros, the financing to be included in the CPER (State-Region plan contract).
“The ambitious renovation of the CREC testifies to the desire of the University of Caen Normandy to be a leading player in research on the coastal environment. Both in Normandy and nationally and internationally,” notes Lamri Adoui, president of the University of Caen Normandy.
Was this article helpful to you? Know that you can follow Liberté Caen in the Mon Actu space. In one click, after registration, you will find all the news of your favorite cities and brands.