The Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center creates a new research group in AI and Health Data led by Dr. Joaquín Dopazo

The Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC), the research center of the Pasqual Maragall Foundation, is advancing its strategy in data science and artificial intelligence with the new Health AI and Data Research Group, led by Dr. Joaquin Dopazo.

This new team was created with the goal of transforming large volumes of biomedical data into knowledge useful for research and clinical practice. Its work will focus on developing computational models capable of integrating genomic, clinical, cognitive, neuroimaging, and lifestyle information to improve early detection, patient stratification, and understanding of the mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.

The group will work on identifying biomarkers and predicting disease risk and progression through the use of artificial intelligence, systems biology, and computational genomics. It will also develop new approaches based on synthetic patients and advanced AI systems capable of automatically generating biomedical knowledge, thereby accelerating translational research.

“The integration of complex data using artificial intelligence presents a unique opportunity to better understand neurodegenerative diseases and move toward more precise, preventive, and personalized medicine,” notes Dr. Joaquin Dopazo.

Methodological Innovation for Precision Medicine

The group's work is organized into several complementary areas. First, the development of computational tools for data integration and the discovery of biomarkers with diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive value. Second, the application of artificial intelligence models for early detection, prediction of clinical progression, and stratification of patients in early or preclinical stages. And third, the use of systems biology approaches and mechanistic modeling to interpret underlying molecular processes and propose new therapeutic strategies.

In addition, the group will pursue emerging research areas such as computational genomics applied to rare neurodegenerative diseases, contributing to the functional interpretation of genetic variants, gene prioritization, and the analysis of molecular mechanisms involved in familial and rare forms of these conditions.

Another strategic focus will be the creation of synthetic patients using generative artificial intelligence, an approach that will enable the simulation of virtual cohorts for research and model training while preserving data privacy. At the same time, the group will develop advanced AI systems capable of autonomously exploring biomedical data and scientific literature to generate hypotheses and accelerate the production of knowledge. 

Established leadership in bioinformatics and computational genomics

The group is led by Dr. Joaquin Dopazo and comprises a multidisciplinary team of specialists in biomedicine, data science, artificial intelligence, and computer science. 

Dr. Joaquin Dopazo has extensive experience in bioinformatics, genomics, and systems biology. Throughout his career, he has spearheaded key initiatives in both academia and biomedical research institutions and has held leadership positions at centers such as the National Cancer Research Center, the National Institute of Bioinformatics, the Prince Felipe Research Center, and the Progress and Health Foundation, among others.

His expertise in developing computational methodologies for biomedicine and his leadership in research projects make him a key figure in advancing the application of artificial intelligence to the study of complex diseases.

The addition of this team strengthens the BBRC’s roster to eight research groups specializing in key areas such as risk factors, neuroimaging, biomarkers in body fluids, genomics, the biology of aging, and population neuroscience. With the creation of this new line of research, the BBRC strengthens its position as a leading center for Alzheimer’s and brain health research, expanding its capabilities in data analysis and reinforcing its commitment to technological innovation as a driver of scientific progress.