Grenoble Alpes University

Grenoble Alpes University Overview

The Université Grenoble Alpes (UGA), translating to "Grenoble Alps University" in English, stands as a prominent public research institution in the picturesque city of Grenoble, France. Established in the annals of history in 1339, this venerable institution has evolved significantly over the centuries. Today, it proudly holds the status of being the third-largest university in France, a testament to its enduring commitment to education and research. With over 60.000 students and a formidable roster of 3.000 researchers, UGA continues to shape the intellectual landscape of Grenoble and beyond.

UGA's historical roots date back to its founding in 1339 by Humbert II of Viennois, who envisioned it as a center for civil and canon law, medicine, and the liberal arts, ultimately contributing to the Renaissance revival of classical education. Despite facing financial challenges during historical events like the Smyrniote crusades and the Black Death, the university saw periods of closure and revival, with Louis XI of France reestablishing it as the University of Valence in 1475. In 1542, Francis de Bourbon, Count of St. Pol, restored the original university in Grenoble, and in 1565, the two merged, solidifying Grenoble's significance in legal education in France. The 19th century marked a revival, with Napoleon reestablishing faculties and Grenoble's industrial growth in the 1880s fueling scientific development. The tumultuous events of May 1968 led to the split of the University of Grenoble into four institutions, focusing on various fields. However, in 2016, three of these institutions came together to revive the original university as Université Grenoble Alpes, further strengthened in 2020 by the inclusion of additional prestigious schools and institutes. The election of Lise Dumasy as president in 2016 marked a historic moment, as she became the first woman to lead a merged university in France.

UGA's educational and research activities sprawl across multiple campuses in Grenoble and its surrounding regions. The primary campuses are Domaine Universitaire and Campus GIANT.

Domaine Universitaire: This sprawling 175-hectare campus, straddling Saint-Martin-d'Hères and Gières, is the heart of UGA. Uniquely, it functions as an autonomous academic enclave within Grenoble, dedicated solely to academic and student activities. This American campus-style organization sets it apart from traditional French universities, contributing to its reputation as one of the most beautiful campuses in France and Europe. Its lush greenery, proximity to the Isère River, and access to public transportation make it a hub for quality student life.

Campus GIANT: Located on the old military grounds of a presque-isle between the Isère and Drac rivers, Campus GIANT (Grenoble Innovation for Advanced New Technologies) embodies inter-organizational collaboration. It houses educational institutions, including UGA and the Grenoble School of Management, alongside major research organizations like CNRS and CEA. This campus emphasizes research-industry partnerships in natural and applied sciences, making it a focal point for innovation.

UGA's influence extends to other locations, including Valence, where a thriving campus serves thousands of students in undergraduate and post-graduate programs. Additionally, various laboratories and research centers, including the alpine botanical garden Jardin botanique alpin du Lautaret, contribute to the university's research endeavors.

UGA's academic offerings span a diverse array of disciplines, organized into faculties, departments, schools, and institutes. These encompass the Faculty of Sciences, Faculty of Humanities, Health, Sports, and Society (H3S), Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacology, and University Institutes of Technology, among others. Additionally, the Doctoral College oversees PhD training, setting standards for UGA's 13 doctoral schools. Graduate School@UGA is a program which prepares students for doctoral research or direct professional integration, addressing societal challenges through thematic programs and cross-disciplinary courses. It aims to create better futures through research-focused training. Through its training, research, and development missions, UGA plays a crucial role in supporting businesses and fostering innovation.

Research is the lifeblood of UGA, with 106 research departments spread across six centers, fostering collaboration among various organizations. These research endeavors span a multitude of fields, from humanities and social sciences to chemistry, biology, health, and cutting-edge fields like particle physics and material sciences. Notably, UGA is home to Minatec, a global center for micro-nano technologies, where over 3,000 researchers and 1,200 students come together to drive innovation. UGA's commitment to pushing boundaries in research is underscored by its designation as one of the four French national Institutes of Artificial Intelligence.

UGA collaborates with research institutions worldwide, actively participating in international research structures. This global engagement enhances their visibility and contributes to international scientific cooperation. UGA promotes the transfer of innovative research to businesses, fostering economic development, job creation, and research funding. They encourage researchers to protect their innovative results and engage in knowledge transfer.

The Grenoble Alps University takes pride in its distinguished alumni, who have made significant contributions across diverse domains. From European politicians and diplomats to renowned scientists and influential social activists, UGA's alumni network shines brightly on the global stage. Notable figures include Nobel laureate Gérard Mourou, astronaut Jean-Jacques Favier, and Prime Minister of Burkina Faso, Paul Kaba Thieba, among many others.

UGA stands as a stalwart institution with a profound dedication to its social and environmental responsibilities. This commitment is not just rhetoric; it's deeply ingrained in the university's core values and operational framework. UGA's approach to societal and environmental engagement is structured around four primary pillars: Respecting the Environment and Combating Climate Change, Training Future Generations on Societal and Environmental Issues, Fostering Awareness and Acknowledging Commitment, Active Participation in Regional Development.

UGA stands out for its commitment to excellence in interdisciplinary education, where a diverse range of courses fosters innovative teaching methods. The university prioritizes students' success through extensive support measures, including tailored programs and remarkable graduation rates. With a global perspective, UGA forms a diverse community with students from 155 different nationalities, offering language courses and international partnerships. Its exceptional 175-hectare Alpine campus, near ski resorts and spread across six attractive departments, provides an ideal environment for academic and outdoor pursuits. UGA's commitment extends to inclusivity, with dedicated support for various needs, including sports students, artists, entrepreneurs, and those with disabilities, fostering a vibrant and inclusive student life.

UGA offers a wide array of student associations, cultural events, and opportunities for artistic expression, contributing significantly to the cultural vibrancy of the region. UGA's libraries provide extensive resources for both academic study and leisure. They offer a space for learning, research, and community engagement. With its exceptional natural surroundings, UGA encourages students to engage in various sports and recreational activities. It supports high-level student-athletes, combining academics and sports careers. UGA actively participates in supporting exiled students, doctoral candidates, and researchers, fostering their integration into the academic community.