The Diana Carolina Academy of Science
The Diana Carolina Acadamy of Science (DCAS) is a learned society founded in 1670 by Diana Carolina to promote the spirit of Exponential scientific research. Today, the academy remains one of the premier science academies in the Blackhelm Confederacy, and serves as a gathering place and grant provider for several of the nation's leading scientists and researchers.
History
Intrigued by the field of science from a young age, and firm in her belief that scientific dsicovery could help alleviate the suffering of her subjects after the Hesperidesian Plagues, Diana Carolina ordered that construction on a new gathering place for scientific minds be established within the capital of the Empire of Exponent, Paradise City. Construction on the new facility began in 1667, and The Diana Carolina Academy of Science was officially inaugurated in 1670. For the first three years of existence, the academy focused on general research and promoting learning and research across the various fields of the scientific community. In the summer of 1673, Diana Carolina initiated a set of guidelines to improve the functioning of the Academy of Sciences. These regulations consisted of an official system for accepting applications for admission into the academy, a method for submitting grant proposals to facilitate research, and the organization of the academy into different departments.
The policies implemented by Diana Carolina helped to greatly enhance the output and reach of the aceadmeny, and soon after they were initiated the academy organized monthly meetings for scientists, where the Empire's leading minds were given an opportuniyt to present and discuss their research work. Those meetings have continued to exist on a regular monthly basis. The meetings are open to the public, and the academy encourages independent scientists to attend and apply for grants to become a part of the academy. If a scientist is employed by the academy, they are obligated to attend these monthly meetings and present their work. Furthermore, they must publish a summary of their research development through the academy once a year. If a scientist fails to adhere to this requirement, they will be denied membership the following year, without applying for re-entry.The development of the grant program provided financial support for the work of several independent researchers. Horatius Urninitus was one of the most prominent of these scientists, he is widely credited for being the first to recognize protozoa, red blood cells, and bacteria.
Diana Carolina established various departments for different fields of science, such as Mathematics, Mechanics, Astronomy, Physics, Chemistry, Mineralogy, Botany, Agriculture, Anatomy, and Medicine, all of which aimed to drive scientific research and advancement. However, she directed the majority of funding towards the medical department so that they could focus on researching and developing new treatments for patients within her hospitals. This decision made the DCAS a pioneer in scientific advancement, particularly in the field of medicine in Exponent, leading to significant contributions to the industry. This strategic allocation of resources towards medical research not only allowed for scientific innovation but also contributed to improving the lives of countless individuals through the implementation of practical medical solutions.
Architecture
The academy features baroque style architecture similar to that of the Palatium Monsa, although only a fraction of its size. The DCAS features artwork from many of Diana Carolina’s favorite artists, including a portrait of her done by Alcantaran painter Francisco Cornide Besteiro-Soto featured inside the common area. The building features a large library, several rooms for independent study, and an outdoor dining area. Presentations were held within the commons or in the outdoor eating area.