The Institute of Molecular Science (ICMol) has been accredited as a ‘María de Maeztu’ Unit of Excellence 2024, a distinction awarded by the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities (MICIU) through the State Research Agency (AEI). This recognition places the ICMol among Spain’s leading research institutions, reinforcing its international scientific leadership and commitment to frontier research in molecular nanoscience and materials.

ICMol is the only research center in the Valencian Community to receive this distinction, further strengthening its role as a national and international scientific benchmark in the fields of nanoscience and molecular materials. This accreditation is valid for four years and comes with funding of €2.25 million, which will be used to consolidate its scientific and management structure, attract young talent, boost internationalization, and reinforce its outreach, training, and technology transfer activities.

Since its foundation in 2000, ICMol has pioneered a research approach exclusively focused on the molecular aspects of nanoscience, with research lines ranging from the chemical design of materials with advanced functionalities to the development of their applications in strategic areas such as energy, environment, electronics, molecular spintronics, and health.

The official award ceremony took place at the University of Zaragoza and was chaired by the Minister of Science, Innovation and Universities, Diana Morant. During her speech, the Minister highlighted that these accreditations “represent a significant boost to the quality of Spanish scientific research” and praised the “undeniable international scientific leadership” of the selected centres and units. “You are the vanguard of a Spain that embraces science as a core element of its democratic, social and economic model,” she said.

Professor Eugenio Coronado, director of ICMol, attended the event on behalf of the institute, which now joins the exclusive group of research units recognised for their excellence and strategic vision.

In the 2024 call, a total of €75.7 million has been allocated to support 9 Severo Ochoa Centres of Excellence and 8 María de Maeztu Units, each selected for their outstanding impact and leadership. Each María de Maeztu Unit will receive €2.25 million over four years to strengthen its strategic research programme.

The programme also includes funding for 138 new predoctoral researchers, who will be trained within the selected centres and units in strategic research areas. Evaluations are carried out independently by an international committee of highly respected scientists.

The María de Maeztu and Severo Ochoa accreditations aim to enhance the organisational capacity, strategic planning, and international visibility of research institutions, while promoting best practices in research management and talent recruitment.

Minister Morant also announced that the 2025 call has already been launched with increased funding of €78 million, reflecting the Government of Spain’s continued commitment to science and innovation. “This is the best moment in our history for science and research in Spain,” she concluded.

The ICMol celebrates this milestone as a collective achievement of its entire research community and a step forward in its mission to advance scientific knowledge for the benefit of society.