The promoters of this initiative in the UPV/EHU have been conducting research of excellence in diverse aspects (Cellular Biology, Ecology, Analytical Chemistry, etc.) of the interactions between environment (chemical substances and other environmental agents) and living organisms over the last 20 years. Two of these research groups have been recognised as Consolidated Groups "A" and two as Consolidated Groups "B" (BOPV 27-11-07), and are integrated in two Formation and Research Units (UFIs: UFI11/37 “Ecosystem Health Protection (UFIPSE)” and UFI11/26 “Global Change and Heritage”). In parallel to the research work carried out, big efforts have been addressed to formation (postgraduate and doctorate education, specialization courses, etc.) and dissemination on diverse aspects related to terrestrial and marine ecosystems' health. Thus, two Official Postgraduate Masters with Mention of Quality (“European MSc in Marine Environment and Resources” - Erasmus Mundus - and “Environmental Contamination and Toxicology”) are offered as a part of the UPV/EHU Postgraduate Programme. In addition, the Doctoral programmes “Marine Environment and Resources” and “Environmental Contamination and Toxicology” have been recognized with the Mention towards Excellence of the Ministry of Education (2011-to date). Finally, given the increasing general interest on these subjects and their repercussion on human welfare, a program of dissemination activities has been designed, addressed to master students, doctoral candidates, professionals, secondary school students and overall citizens.
