New Innovation Unit to accelerate the translation of research into impact

With the strategic goal of transforming the cutting-edge science generated at the Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center into tangible solutions for society, the Pasqual Maragall Foundation–Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (FPM-BBRC) has invested in the creation of a new Innovation Unit. Led by Dr. Paula Mera and integrated within the Grants and Innovation Area, the unit will drive the centre's innovation and knowledge & technology transfer strategy.

This strategic investment reflects the FPM-BBRC commitment to identifying, promoting and advancing R&D activities with high innovation potential. By strengthening innovation and knowledge & technology transfer capabilities, the initiative will reinforce BBRC's position as a leader in brain research over the medium and long term, accelerating the translation of scientific discoveries into solutions that benefit society.

What will the unit do?

The Innovation Unit will focus on driving translational impact through several key functions:

• Strategic development: Co-develop and implement an innovation strategy aligned with BBRC’s core scientific priorities, establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure translational impact. 
• Technology transfer: Facilitate the transfer of research outcomes to industry through strategic partnerships, licensing agreements, and the creation of spin-off companies.
• Intellectual property: Manage the protection of intellectual property, develop patent strategies, and oversee invention disclosure processes.
• Portfolio management: Identify promising research results and build a structured translational opportunity pipeline to support their progression towards real-world impact.
• Funding and collaboration: Secure funding for innovation projects and develop strategic partnerships with public institutions, investors, and industrial partners.
• Fostering an innovation culture: Promote a culture where innovation and knowledge & technology transfer are valued and integrated into all research activities, fostering internal awareness, engagement, and participation across the BBRC.