The Centre for Research in Biological Chemistry and Molecular Materials (CiQUS) at the Universidade de Santiago de Compostela (USC) has been awarded the prestigious María de Maeztu Unit of Excellence distinction, according to the provisional resolution published by the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities.
The recognition, which includes approximately €3 million in funding over the next four years, strengthens the centre’s position as an international benchmark at the interface of chemistry, biology and materials science, where CiQUS develops innovative approaches to major challenges in health, energy and sustainable technologies.
A consolidated model of interdisciplinary research excellence
Since its creation in 2010, CiQUS has built a high-impact interdisciplinary research model currently bringing together 19 research groups and a strong track record in attracting competitive funding.
The centre also holds the CIGUS accreditation awarded by the Xunta de Galicia and receives financial support from the European Union through the Galicia FEDER 2021–2027 Programme.
Its scientific activity spans areas such as functional materials design, biological chemistry and the development of new synthetic methodologies.
This trajectory is complemented by a strong commitment to attracting and training research talent, reflected in the centre’s success in securing 19 European Research Council (ERC) grants — with up to 13 CiQUS researchers receiving support from this prestigious European funding body — as well as its participation in initiatives promoted by the European Innovation Council (EIC), aimed at accelerating knowledge transfer and the development of disruptive technologies.
A strategic boost for the future
The centre’s directors highlighted that the distinction “represents a decisive boost to continue advancing our mission of addressing major scientific challenges through innovative and collaborative research, always with the goal of generating a tangible impact on society.”
The María de Maeztu accreditation will enable CiQUS to further strengthen its scientific and institutional strategy, enhance its international visibility and attract new research talent.
It will also contribute to consolidating best practices in research management and reinforcing the centre’s capacity to lead world-class research projects on a global scale.
