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A major science-for-society event: 100xCiencia.9 SOMMa conference in Valencia

The ninth edition of the annual congress 100xCiencia.9 — promoted by the SOMMa Alliance of Severo Ochoa and María-de-Maeztu centres of excellence — will be held in Valencia from 13 to 14 November 2025, at the CaixaForum València (Àgora building, City of Arts & Sciences).

The theme for this edition of 100xCiencia.9 is “Science for Society. Touching Consciences”, underscoring the role of scientific research for social benefit, public engagement and sustainability.

The 100xCiencia.9 conference will open on Thursday with participant registration and SOMMa network working group meetings, followed by the official inauguration and a keynote lecture by Professor Avelino Corma. In the afternoon, a roundtable explores science and innovation in public policy, followed by a discussion on attracting talent for science and society.

Friday will begin with a keynote by Pilar Goya, then three thematic panels focus on advanced materials and nanotechnology, artificial intelligence and data for scientific progress, and the challenges of longevity. The afternoon sessions address innovation and sustainability in food and energy systems, as well as advanced instrumentation resources for science. The event will conclude with a final summary session and evening outreach activities.

ICMAB’s participation and our commitment

As a participating centre in the SOMMa Alliance, ICMAB is pleased to join this important forum that brings together researchers, R&D managers, policymakers and citizens — all focused on the interface between science and society.

From ICMAB, Director David Amabilino will be present at the event, also Lourdes Fàbrega, Deputy Director and coordinator of the Working Group on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion. In addition, Severo Ochoa Project Managers Laura Cabana and Montse Salas will be attending the event and the Working Group on Project Managers session. 

In addition, several sessions are particularly relevant for ICMAB, especially those on advanced materials, nanotechnology, and sustainability, which align closely with the institute’s core research areas. Discussions on innovation, instrumentation, and talent attraction also offer valuable opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange within the scientific community.

Event focus: excellence, impact and outreach

In this edition, five leading research institutions from the Valencian Community will serve as hosts of 100xCiencia.9. These include centres that are part of the SOMMa Alliance and whose strategic work addresses major global challenges (e.g., food-health, nanotechnology, green chemistry, fundamental physics, neuroscience).

Beyond scientific talks and panels, the programme will include participatory and outreach activities open to the public — underscoring the congress’s aim to bridge science and citizens, to foster reflection and dialogue on sustainability, health, climate change, energy and social impact.

A venue reinforcing Valencian scientific leadership

Hosting the event in Valencia (CaixaForum Valencia) underlines the city and region’s role as a hub for scientific and technological excellence in Spain. With a strong tradition in research, a network of laboratories and institutions, and a growing focus on public engagement and societal relevance, Valencia provides a fitting backdrop for this science-for-society gathering.

Download here the conference programme

Live on YouTube

The event will be streamed live on SOMMa’s YouTube channel:

Particularly interesting sessions for the ICMAB community include:

  • “Science and innovation for public policies” (Thursday, 13:15 h)
  • “Attracting talent for science and society” (Thursday, 15:00 h)
  • “Advanced materials and nanotechnology for industry and health” (Friday, 10:15 h)
  • “Advanced instrumentation: a key for excellent science” (Friday, 15:15 h)

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Anna May
22 October 2025
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