Partner Profile: University of São Paulo

Founded in 1934, the University of São Paulo is a large Brazilian public university and considered to be one of the country’s most prestigious educational institutions.  With approximately 95,000 students, USP is among the largest institutions of higher education in Latin America.  The relationship between NC State and USP is similar in many respects with our global partnerships where faculty have a critical role and active engagement in research, educational training and program development. We also share a common history being established respectively with a focus on agriculture and engineering. Another unique dimension that provides synergy between the two institutions is how we both have extension, or community engagement, as a core mission.

Research is a major part of the relationship between NC State and USP as we recognize the importance of collaboration to address global challenges.  Over the past eight years, the number of joint publications has increased more than 400 percent, according to data from the Web of Science. Forestry, agriculture and life sciences, environmental sciences, engineering and physical sciences are the predominant areas, but faculty also collaborate in the areas of veterinary medicine, health, humanities and social sciences.

Additionally, USP and NC State along with the University of Surrey (UK) and the University of Wollongong (Australia) comprise the University Global Partnership Network (UGPN), which provides a foundation for international collaboration and academic exchange.