Catalan research infrastructure transforms with a major €103.2 million investment from the regional government.
The Generalitat has activated the funding to overhaul 14 key scientific and technological projects, marking the first such large-scale call since 2019.
Major Boost for Catalan Research Infrastructure
The Conselleria de Recerca i Universitats published the definitive resolution for its ‘Singulars Institucionals 2024’ grants this Friday.
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Consequently, universities and research centres will receive between €1 and €12 million per project. However, they must match at least 50% of the funding with their own resources or other compatible grants.
Research Councillor Núria Montserrat emphasised the strategic importance of the move. “This call highlights that we are capable of financing and budgeting for the construction of sustainable buildings,” she stated. Furthermore, she noted it would help attract and retain top talent while fostering better connections within Europe’s knowledge system.
Key Projects Driving Innovation
The selected projects span cutting-edge fields like biomedicine, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence. For instance, the Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC-CNS) will receive €6 million to expand its facilities. This expansion aims to meet growing scientific demand and, importantly, open AI services to small and medium-sized enterprises for the first time.
Additionally, the Institut de Ciències Fotòniques (ICFO) gets €6 million to build next-generation nano-characterisation labs. Meanwhile, the Alba Synchrotron will install a high-end cryo-electron microscope for life sciences. This significant investment in Catalan research infrastructure is projected to create substantial economic opportunities.
Other notable beneficiaries include the Sant Joan de Déu Foundation, which will develop a unique paediatric translational research facility. The Institut de Recerca Biomèdica (IRB Barcelona) is also set for a new in-vivo experimentation infrastructure at the Mercat del Peix complex.
Funding Structure and Timeline
The total €103.2 million package combines regional and European funds. The Conselleria provides 20% (€20.6 million), with EU FEDER funds covering 30% (€31 million). Therefore, the remaining 50% must come from the institutions themselves. All project expenses must be executed before the deadline of 31 December 2028.
This initiative arrives amid broader discussions on regional development and housing pressures linked to economic growth. According to Europa Press, the move strengthens Catalonia’s position in generating new knowledge and therapies. The transformation of Catalan research infrastructure is now firmly underway, promising long-term benefits for science and the regional economy.
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