© 2025 Advanced Research and Training Academy (ARTA). All rights reserved.
Shaping Tomorrow’s Innovators Through Applied Learning and Research
The Applied Research and Training Academy (ARTA) is a forward-looking institution committed to developing creative, skilled, and research-driven professionals. Founded in 2018 under the umbrella of the Institute for Cellular Pharmacology (ICP) Ltd, ARTA evolved from the former ICP Training Academy and was created to serve as a bridge between scientific innovation, academic excellence and industry relevance.
ICP Ltd is renowned for its fundamental research into plant-derived active ingredients for applications in nutraceutical, cosmetic, and animal health sectors. With compliance to international standards, including FDA regulations, the institute has earned recognition as an approved R&D facility by the French Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation.
ARTA offers various programmes to both local and international students. In addition to offering its own academic programmes, ARTA also serves as a local campus for international universities and colleges, providing classroom, laboratory and conference facilities. The Academy actively organises webinars, masterclasses, and specialised training, while also supporting students in accessing educational funding opportunities.
Our Mission & Vision
Our mission is to deliver dynamic, applied and inquiry-led education that equips learners with the skills, knowledge, and mindset to innovate in their chosen fields. Learning at ARTA takes place in a project-based, real-world environment, grounded in our five core values:
⦁ Inquiry
⦁ Reflection
⦁ Innovation
⦁ Collaboration
⦁ Entrepreneurship
Our vision is to enhance access to quality education for diverse learners, offering recognised credentials that are respected in both academic and employment circles. ARTA is committed to providing rich opportunities for learning, discovery and engagement that prepare students for global careers and meaningful contributions to society.
Strategic Focus
ARTA is strategically positioned to make Malta a EuroMed Centre of Excellence for applied research and innovation. We facilitate partnerships between industry, academia and public institutions to drive collaborative projects in science and technology.
Through educational programmes, public outreach and international partnerships, ARTA aims to become a reference point for excellence in training, knowledge transfer and research across a wide range of disciplines.
Quality Assurance
ARTA adheres to the National Quality Assurance Framework for Further and Higher Education in Malta, aligning with European standards. Our Integrated Quality Management System ensures continuous improvement, institutional accountability and an embedded culture of quality across all levels of the academy.
We view quality not just as a benchmark to meet, but as a core value to instil in every student, staff member and institutional process. Our goal is to foster an environment where academic and professional excellence become second nature.
Leadership
President – Dr Gilles Pierre Louis Gutierrez
Dr Gilles Gutierrez is the President of the Board of Governors at ARTA and the visionary founder of the Institute for Cellular Pharmacology (ICP) Ltd. A distinguished scientist, Dr Gutierrez holds a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the Université Claude Bernard in Lyon, France.
With decades of experience in scientific research, especially in the field of plant-based active ingredients, Dr Gutierrez has been instrumental in shaping the direction of applied research in the Euro-Med region. In recognition of his ground-breaking contributions, he was awarded the prestigious Pasteur Institute Medal in October 2009.
As President, Dr Gutierrez provides strategic direction to the Academy, ensuring that it remains at the cutting edge of scientific education, innovation and international collaboration.
Principal & Head of Institution – Dr Claire Angèle Baluci
Dr Claire Baluci serves as the Principal and Head of Institution at ARTA. She holds two doctoral degrees, one in Biology and another in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, and has extensive experience in academia and research leadership.
Dr Baluci is a Chartered Biologist (Royal Society of Biology, UK) and a Chartered Scientist (Science Council, UK), reflecting her high standing in the international scientific community. With a passion for education, curriculum innovation and student engagement, she leads the Academy’s academic and operational teams in delivering programmes of the highest quality.
Her vision for ARTA combines scientific integrity, academic excellence and inclusive education, ensuring that all students have the tools to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.
Our People
ARTA’s team comprises dedicated academic and administrative professionals who are deeply committed to teaching, mentoring, research and innovation. Our staff are selected for their expertise, experience, and ability to inspire students to reach their full potential.
Whether it is through cutting-edge research, hands-on teaching or personalised student support, our team is the foundation of ARTA’s success and growing reputation as a hub for higher learning and applied science.
Our Partners
ARTA is supported by several internationally renowned organisations, who assist in delivering world-class education, research and training.
Institute for Cellular Pharmacology (ICP) Ltd, Mosta, Malta – Texinfine, Lyon, France
www.icp-texinfine.com
Advancing Education. Empowering Innovation.
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