This morning UCAM HiTech, the high-tech incubator for Health, Sport and Nutrition of the Universidad Católica de Murcia, welcomed the appointment of Javier García Martínez, President of the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) and founder of the Academia Joven de España, as sponsor of the UCAM Chair in Sensor Chemistry (UCAM-SENS), led by researchers María Cuartero and Gastón Crespo, who have noted that the aim is to hold a scientific seminar every year with the help of prominent figures from the sector.

Dr García Martínez has developed an extensive research activity, with more than 55 patents used by some of the most important chemical companies in the world, and has focused his work on creating biofuels, advanced solar cells and new hydrogen storage systems. Over 100,000 tonnes of CO2 per year are currently being saved as a result of these developments.

The researcher was grateful for this recognition and expressed his satisfaction at seeing in UCAM HiTech ‘the commitment to science, knowledge and the creation of companies’, pointing out that ‘what we are celebrating today is evidence of how we can perform science of great quality. Spain has tremendous possibilities.’ In his lecture ‘Designing circular economy on a molecular scale. Education, entrepreneurship and purpose’, he stressed the ‘passion for knowledge’ and the challenges to be faced, such as climate change or the scarcity of resources, ‘major problems that can only be solved with science, knowledge and, above all, collaboration’.

Estrella Núñez, Vice-Rector of Research, confirmed the quality of the Universidad Católica de Murcia in a transversal way, ‘both in teaching and research, and in this case, linking it with people of international standing’. The event was attended by Antonio González, Director of the Fundación Séneca and Isabel Fortea, CARM General Director of Universities and Research, who stressed the importance of attracting international talent, ‘something that we must promote in the Region of Murcia’.

UCAM SENS

In just eight months, the first sensor chemistry unit in Europe (UCAM-SENS) has a team of more than a dozen researchers who have published several articles and cover stories in the world's best journals in the field of analytical chemistry and sensors. Their projects focus on the areas of wearable sensors for sports and health, chemical nanosensors and new chemical sensing concepts. Notable among his research is the top-level European ERC Starting Grant project, funded with 1.6 million euros.