The Josep Carreras Institute (IJC), a CERCA centre of the Generalitat de Catalunya, has received the resolution of provisional concession as Severo Ochoa Centre of Excellence by the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities of Spain. IJC is one of the 10 institutions that have received the accreditation in the 2023 call, which places the Institute among the best research centres in Spain based on its excellence, scientific contributions, capacity to attract talent and economic and social impact, among others.

This recognition highlights the excellent research carried out in the institute, its continuous collaborations and its commitment to society, which have resulted in the incorporation of hundreds of professionals in recent years, the attraction of funding, the sustainability of its structural budget and its leadership in major international projects.

The prestigious Severo Ochoa accreditation will contribute to increasing the international visibility of the centre, as well as the scientific, social and economic impact of its research outcomes. It also ensures the funding of the new IJC Strategic Plan, with the aim of consolidating its capabilities and contributing to the leadership of its research.

The Director of the Institute, Dr. Manel Esteller, has expressed his gratitude for the accreditation that "acknowledges the work of the professionals of our young Institute over the last five years". Ana Garrido, Strategic Director and Acting Managing Director, says that "all our small efforts have resulted in a great reward, a successful outcome that represents a sea change for our institute. As Pablo Neruda said, if you don't climb the mountain, you will never be able to enjoy the landscape. Thanks to the whole IJC team for having climbed the mountain with us".

The selection of the Severo Ochoa Centres of Excellence is carried out through a rigorous and strict competitive process, which evaluates issues such as the organisation, funding, research results, international leadership and training. This 4-year accreditation is a great boost to continue working, as an unstoppable team, for research excellence that contributes to improving the results and the cure of patients affected by leukaemia and other malignant haemopathies.