The Institute for Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia (IQAC) is a research center of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), located in Barcelona.
It was created in 2007 with the mission of developing research excellence in the field of Chemical Sciences, with the purpose of improving quality of life.
Our commitment is to use chemistry as an essential tool to address major societal challenges, from human health to the sustainability of chemical processes and products, while also driving the development of new materials with applications in multiple fields.
At IQAC we develop fundamental and applied chemical research, addressing scientific challenges through innovative and multidisciplinary strategies.
Our research groups work on the design and study of bioactive molecules, functional materials and nanostructured systems with applications in biomedicine, technology and sustainability.
In addition, the Institute has advanced scientific and technical facilities, managed by highly qualified personnel, which offer services to both our own research groups and academic institutions and private companies, promoting collaboration, innovation and knowledge transfer between science and society.
In a context where chemistry is often perceived negatively, at IQAC we champion its essential role for progress and social welfare. Chemistry is key in the development of medicines, sustainable materials, clean technologies and innovative solutions that improve our daily lives. Therefore, we work to demonstrate that chemistry is not only present in everything around us, but is also an indispensable ally in building a healthier and more sustainable future.
Prof. Pascual Vila and his team moved from the University of Barcelona to the Institute of Organic Chemistry of Barcelona of CSIC, located at the Research and Development Centre (CID). At the same time, CSIC scientists specializing in tanning and textile technology also joined the CID, which ultimately led to the creation of the Institute of Chemical and Textile Technology. These movements fostered the emergence and consolidation of the two main research areas of the CID: Organic Chemistry and Chemical Technology.
The joint action of the bioorganic, theoretical and technological groups, together with teams working on chemical issues related to the environment, led to the creation of the Institute of Chemical and Environmental Research of Barcelona (IIQAB). During the ten-year period of IIQAB, the Institute became a reference in the fields of Environmental Chemistry, Biological Chemistry, Theoretical and Computational Chemistry, Sustainable Chemistry and selected areas of Chemical Technology.
As IIQAB grew and its research lines became increasingly specialized in organic chemistry, biological chemistry and chemical technology, the need for a more coordinated and focused structure naturally emerged. In response to this evolution, IQAC was created in 2007 to strengthen and integrate research in advanced chemistry under a unified framework. Its creation promoted greater interdisciplinary collaboration, improved access to shared facilities and increased participation in international research networks, thereby increasing its scientific impact. Many of these research areas have remained active and have been strengthened since the creation of IQAC.
In November 2019, an internal evaluation highlighted the need to reorganize research groups, align strategic priorities and enhance synergy and competitiveness. This led to a refinement of our research lines and the creation of a Management Committee and an External Scientific Advisory Committee to support coordinated decision-making and ensure the continuous scientific and organizational growth of the Institute.
Over nearly 20 years, the Institute has consolidated solid foundations in its traditional research fields, while developing Nanobiotechnology, which combines synergistically with Biological Chemistry. The diversity of our research areas generates broad opportunities for collaboration, making IQAC a leading center advancing chemistry for the improvement of health and the environment, ranging from fundamental organic chemistry to applied solutions that enhance human welfare and sustainability. In recent years, new researchers have joined the Institute, working in close alignment with our strategic lines. The dedication and expertise of our scientific, technical and administrative staff is taking the Institute to new levels of excellence.
