ISGlobal Receives Accreditation as a Severo Ochoa Centre of Excellence for the Second Consecutive Time

The Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) has obtained, for the second consecutive time, accreditation as a Severo Ochoa Centre of Excellence. This distinction is awarded by the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities with the aim of "promoting the quality of Spanish scientific research by recognising the best centres and units that stand out for their international relevance and impact".

On Friday 22 March 2024, the State Research Agency published a provisional resolution proposal announcing the ten centres recognised with this prestigious accreditation in the 2023 call for applications. The distinction has a duration of four years and is accompanied by financial support of €4.5 million for institutional strengthening, plus €1.16 million for research staff training. 

The evaluation committee highlighted the "unique focus" of ISGlobal's proposal, whose strategic plan “targets the intersection of infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, climate, and the environment". "The strategic plan, underpinned by basic science with a focus on strengthening multi-omics methodologies, emphasises translational and integrative multidisciplinary activities, reflecting the ethics and values of the centre," they added.

For his part, director general of ISGlobal, Quique Bassat, expressed his joy at the news, saying that "the Severo Ochoa is not only a hallmark that certifies us as one of the centres of excellence in research in Spain, but it will also help us to shape the ISGlobal of the coming years, in which we intend to break down silos and holistically address health challenges that go beyond disciplines and borders".

Bassat also wished to thank Mark Nieuwenhuijsen, who, as scientific director of ISGlobal's Severo Ochoa Programme, led the preparation of the proposal that was recognised by the evaluation committee.