Prof. Emilio J. Palomares Gil, Director of ICIQ, receives the Narcís Monturiol Medal at the Palau de la Generalitat

17th February 2025 – The director of ICIQ, Emilio J. Palomares Gil, was one of ten distinguished individuals awarded the Narcís Monturiol Medal for scientific and technological merit on Monday, 17th February, presented by the Generalitat of Catalonia.

The event, held at the Palau de la Generalitat, was presided over by the Minister for Research and Universities, Núria Montserrat, who highlighted the importance of scientific research as a driver of progress and innovation: “Catalonia has a scientific and technological system capable of competing on a global scale, and it has this thanks to people like those awarded today, who not only strive for excellence but also inspire future generations of scientists and innovators.”

Upon receiving the Narcís Monturiol Medal, Prof. Emilio J. Palomares Gil expressed his wish to share this recognition with the scientific community and the teams he has worked with throughout his career: “This award is an encouragement to continue advancing research in chemistry and sustainable energy. Science is a collective endeavour, and this recognition also belongs to all the people I have had the privilege of collaborating with over the years. Catalonia has a high-level scientific ecosystem, and it is essential to continue investing in research as a driving force for progress,” emphasised Palomares.

Prof. Emilio J. Palomares Gil is a leading figure in the field of photochemistry and renewable energy. He holds a PhD in Chemistry from the Polytechnic University of Valencia, and his research has focused on developing materials for solar energy conversion and storage, with applications in improving solar cells and energy storage systems.

After various stints at prestigious international institutions, such as Imperial College London, Prof. Palomares joined ICIQ, where he currently serves as director and research group leader. Since 2009, he has been a Professor ICREA, further solidifying his career as a top-level researcher within the Catalan scientific system.

Recently, he received one of the prestigious ERC Advanced Grants awarded by the European Research Council (ERC), highly competitive funding aimed at outstanding scientists carrying out pioneering projects in their field. This recognition reaffirms the impact and international reach of his research.

His career includes more than 280 published scientific articles, numerous international awards, and a significant contribution to the training of young researchers.
With the awarding of the Narcís Monturiol Medal, Prof. Palomares joins a group of scientists who have left a mark on the Catalan knowledge system. Other recipients this year include Jordi Alberich Vibé (University of Barcelona – UB), Anna Alberni Jordà (UB), Joan Grimalt i Obrador (CSIC), Àngel Lozano Solsona (Pompeu Fabra University – UPF), Ana Isabel Pérez Neira (Polytechnic University of Barcelona – UPC), Petia Radeva (UB), Marta Reynal Querol (UPF), Gustavo A. Slafer (AGROTECNIO), Antonio Villaverde Corrales (Autonomous University of Barcelona – UAB) from the Catalan knowledge system. Additionally, the Museum of Archaeology of Catalonia (MAC) has been awarded the Narcís Monturiol Plaque in recognition of its efforts. It is worth noting that the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ-CERA) received the Narcís Monturiol Plaque in 2009, further highlighting its commitment to excellence in scientific research and innovation.

Through these awards, the Generalitat of Catalonia acknowledges the work and careers of researchers and institutions that contribute to the progress of Catalan society.

The personalities awarded the Narcís Monturiol Medal with Minister for Research and Universities of Catalan Government and General Director of Research of Catalan Government, Núria Montserrat and Joan Gómez Pallarés