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Image: IRB Barcelona.
 08.01.2025

Joan J. Guinovart, a key figure in Catalan science

The Barcelona Science Park deeply regrets the loss of Dr. Joan J. Guinovart, one of the main promoters of science and research in Catalonia. Guinovart was an invaluable reference for his leadership, vision and great contribution to the creation and development of IRB Barcelona. He also played a prominent role in the beginnings of the Barcelona Science Park, of which he was director between 2001 and 2002, a complex period in which everything was to be done and the challenge was immense.

Born in Tarragona in 1947, Dr. Guinovart graduated in Pharmacy and obtained his doctorate in Biochemistry at the University of Barcelona, ​​where he also served as a professor. He founded IRB Barcelona in 2005 and directed it until 2018. He was president of the Spanish Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (SEBBM), COSCE and IUBMB and held several positions in the main European societies in the world of biochemistry and molecular biology. He was also the promoter of several initiatives to improve the research system at a local, national and international level. All this work earned him recognition with the Creu de Sant Jordi in 2014.

Director of the Barcelona Science Park

Dr. Joan Guinovart was appointed director of the Barcelona Science Park Foundation at the PCB Board meeting held on 27 February 2001. His appointment also coincided with the task of leading the necessary steps to give legal personality to the still incipient IRB Barcelona project. During his tenure at the PCB, which ended on 20 March 2002, Guinovart contributed significantly to the consolidation of the project, establishing the foundations for its evolution as a pioneering space for innovation and collaboration between academic research and the business sector. He was replaced in the position by Màrius Rubiralta, while Guinovart began to direct IRB Barcelona.

In the Metabolic Engineering laboratory that he led at IRB Barcelona, ​​he made pioneering contributions in the study of carbohydrate metabolism, diabetes and Lafora disease, lines of research that continue to make a difference in the field of biomedicine. His commitment to education was reflected in the training of numerous generations of researchers, whom he guided with dedication, closeness and generosity.

Joan Guinovart’s legacy extends far beyond his official positions. His vision, leadership and passion for science left a deep mark on all those who came into contact with him, both professionally and personally. The PCB expresses its deepest condolences for his loss and appreciates all the work he did to promote research in this country.

» Link to the news: IRB Barcelona website [+]