The President of the Generalitat, Salvador Illa, today advocated for “science and research against denialism” during the presentation of the MIES-UB project. This plan involves building two new facilities on the Diagonal Campus to boost research and attract talent in mathematics, computer science, economics, and health. According to Illa, the project “will transform the Diagonal entrance, turning a border zone into a meeting point”.
One building will expand the facilities of the Parc Científic de Barcelona, providing new spaces for health sciences research groups and housing the Institut de Bioenginyeria de Catalunya (IBEC). The other will host teaching and research activities in mathematics, computer science, and economics. The Government has agreed to fund this strategic singular project with a total of 27 million euros, adding to the 3 million already transferred in 2025, bringing the total public funding to 30 million for a project cost of 71.5 million.
The funding will be channelled through the Department of Research and Universities over the next four years. This initiative aligns with the strategic objectives of the Government's Plan for higher education, research, and innovation, aiming to strengthen the university and scientific infrastructure of the Catalan university system. The investment is part of the agreements from the Mixed Commission for Economic and Fiscal Affairs (CMAEF) between the State and the Generalitat.
Support for the MIES-UB project was previously confirmed last October with the ratification of the de-allocation of two plots on the Campus Pedralbes, owned by the UB, to enable the initiative through a surface right granted to the Institut Català del Sòl (INCASÒL). This collaborative asset management model is part of an agreement signed between the UB and INCASÒL in April 2024.
