Prof. María Escudero Honoured at the Spanish National Research Awards Ceremony

by Chema Arcos

During the official event presided over by King Felipe VI, the ICN2 Group Leader received the “María Teresa Toral” Award for Young Researchers, in recognition of her outstanding career in chemical science and technology.

The official ceremony for the 2024 Spanish National Research Awards took place in Madrid on 3 July, with ICREA Prof. María Escudero-Escribano among the recipients. The ICN2 Group Leader received the “María Teresa Toral Award” for Young Researchers in the field of chemical science and technology. According to the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, the Spanish National Research Awards honour researchers in Spain who are conducting outstanding work in areas of international scientific relevance, making significant contributions to advancing knowledge and driving societal progress.

The ceremony, presided over by H.M. King Felipe VI, included a speech by Diana Morant, the Minister of Science, Innovation and Universities, and was presented by RTVE journalist Silvia Intxaurrondo. During the event, the achievements of all the award winners were showcased. In Prof. Escudero-Escribano's case, particular focus was given to her innovative advances in electrocatalysis and green fuels production technologies.

Afterwards, the award-winning researchers from the various categories participated in a roundtable discussion moderated by Intxaurrondo, where they shared their thoughts and ideas on science in Spain in general and their respective fields of research in particular. This edition placed a strong emphasis on gender equality in science, marking a milestone with the highest number of female awardees to date.

Commitment to sustainability and the energy transition

Prof. Escudero-Escribano's research undoubtedly represents a benchmark in the fields of nanotechnology, electrochemistry and the development of green fuel production technologies. The research projects conducted by her team at ICN2 are a prime example of the pivotal role that chemistry and nanoscience play in the transition to more sustainable energy models.

This recognition also reaffirms ICN2's role as a centre of excellence committed to cutting-edge science and finding innovative solutions to major societal challenges. We would like to extend our most sincere congratulations to Prof. Escudero-Escribano.

Find out the full list of this year's winners here.

Watch the full event streamed here.