ICIQ welcomes first students from IVORI Programme

The IVORI Programme has welcomed its first group of students at the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ), marking a key moment in the institute’s efforts to support the next generation of female researchers. These grants are designed for talented female graduates in chemistry from Latin America, Spanish-speaking countries, and Brazil, encouraging their pursuit of research careers through ICIQ’s Master’s and PhD programmes.

Participants in the IVORI Programme will have the chance to immerse themselves in cutting-edge research at ICIQ. Under the mentorship of Group Leaders, these students will embark on research projects that will provide them with academic and professional experience in the field of chemistry.

Highlighting the significance of this milestone, Prof. Emilio J. Palomares, Director of ICIQ, stated: “This is the very first programme of its kind in Catalan research centres, specifically aimed at empowering female researchers from underrepresented regions. We are thrilled to welcome these highly prepared students, and we are confident that their journey here will pave the way for their future accomplishments.”

The IVORI Programme’s vision aligns with ICIQ’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusivity in science. By offering opportunities to talented female researchers from regions often underrepresented in international scientific communities, the programme strengthens the global network of women in science.

Prof. Luis Echegoyen, International Chair for Academic Programmes at ICIQ, helped establish the programme after extensive outreach across Latin America, where he had cultivated academic connections. Reflecting on the impact of the programme, Professor Echegoyen said: “Through my travels in Latin America, I encountered an extraordinary pool of talented young women eager to pursue careers in chemistry. The IVORI Programme is a unique platform that provides them the support and resources they need to thrive in research environments. I am excited to see the impact these women will have in the scientific world”. Dr. Laia Pellejà i Puxeu, currently CERCA Director, led the project while she was Administrative Director at ICIQ and accompanied Prof. Echegoyen on the visits to several Latin American universities.

One of the newly admitted students, Tania Smith Tabares Rios, Master student at Prof. Jordi Burés Group, shared her motivations for applying: “When I found out about the ICIQ I knew it would be the ideal place to continue my training and develop as a researcher, because it is a world-leading institute with a proven track record for cutting-edge research, with an international environment and made up of excellent scientists and professionals”.

With access to world-class facilities and mentorship from top experts, these students are embarking on a journey that will equip them to become prepared scientists in the field of chemical research. The IVORI Programme is not only a vital stepping stone in their academic careers but also a significant step towards promoting gender equality in science.