Clermont Auvergne Métropole is a medium-size city whose student population of 35,000 accounts for nearly 15% of its total population of 270,000.
The size of the region’s young population is reflected in the relative importance of its research facilities: CNRS units, INSERM units, IRSTEA centres, INRA, centres of excellence in particle physics, electronics, computer science and robotics, digital simulation and modelling, polymer chemistry, health and nutrition, gynaecology, ophthalmology and more.
It is also reflected in the number of student associations, clubs and sports facilities in and around the city: theatre, rugby, basketball, tennis, humanitarian and more. ISIMA itself stands next to a huge sports complex which is available to all. The Zenith, the conference centre, the sports centre and the municipal theatre all host a variety of major events through the year, including a short film festival, the basketball Europe Cup, French table tennis championship, concerts and lots more.
An increasingly younger economy
Traditionally dominated by companies in manufacturing (Michelin, Valeo, Sagem, Altadis, CSEE), health (Thermalisme, CHU, MSD Chibret) and nutrition (Limagrain), the region’s economy is also taking part in the trend for innovation. For instance, Pardieu technological park and the Cyberparc have provided a home for emerging information technologies and new services at the Clermont site. ISIMA is involved in this movement by providing incubation services for a host of businesses (Numtech, Allegorithmic and Effidence to name a few) and coordinating a technology platform in the area of “digital simulation and information technology”.
Clermont-Ferrand: an accessible city
Set at the foot of the Auvergne Mountains, the city of Clermont-Ferrand is a fluid and harmonious place to live, work and study. Living and housing are inexpensive and crime is low. At the crossroads of three motorways (Clermont-Paris/ Clermont-Montpellier/Clermont-Lyon), the city is also well served by train and plane (Aulnat international airport close by).
Auvergne: so much to see and do
Auvergne is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful regions in France, replete with dormant volcanoes, lakes and gorges, historic sites and Roman architecture. Contrary to popular belief, the climate, relatively dry with significantly more sunshine than the Paris region, is clement and the countryside is breathtaking. Within 50 kilometres, you can find ski resorts (Super Besse, Mont-Dore, Lioran) and places to go hiking, climbing, hang gliding, all easily accessible and offering a wide selection of ways to relax and distract you.
