The CNPEM stands out in Brazil as an open, multi-user, and multidisciplinary center with activities directed toward different actors in the national science, technology, and innovation system.
The Center is overseen by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MCTI) and combines highly specialized teams, sophisticated laboratory structures open to the scientific community, research and development projects in strategic areas, partnerships with the productive sector, and training activities for young researchers.
The CNPEM operates four national laboratories and is home to the most complex project in Brazilian science, Sirius. More recently, with support from the Ministry of Education (MEC), the CNPEM expanded its activities with the opening of the Ilum Superior School of Science, an innovative interdisciplinary undergraduate program in science, technology and innovation.