The largest R&D&I and knowledge transfer event in Europe, Transfiere: European Forum for Science, Technology and Innovation, brought together over 5,200 professionals in this year’s edition, consolidating its position as an international benchmark in knowledge transfer and R&D&I, with participation from more than 30 countries.
Given the magnitude of the Transfiere 2025 event, Maria Ortiz-Aguayo and Diego Gutiérrez set up their roll-up banner at the CSIC stand to showcase the Point-Of-Care & label-free biosensor technology they are developing within the e-MOLMAT research group at ICMAB, under the direction of researcher Marta Mas-Torrent.
Point-Of-Care & label-free biosensor technology | ICMAB-CSIC
Their platform combines the use of an absorbent material that receives and transports the sample for analysis, with a sensing medium that generates a variable electric current depending on the amount of analyte present in the sample. The team has been able to develop a prototype to detect biomarkers for Hepatitis B, among others.
“We believe having a functional prototype that people could touch made a real difference — it really sparked attendees’ curiosity.”
– Diego Gutiérrez, e-MolMat group
Diego Gutiérrez at Transfiere 2025 | ICMAB-CSIC
During the forum, they were able to make valuable connections for potential collaborations with other researchers, key companies, and potential investors interested in learning more about the technology. At the same time, they emphasized how enriching the experience was, as it allowed them to improve their communication skills and receive feedback from a range of interested sectors.
“It was really interesting to adapt the pitch depending on the audience — it’s very different when speaking to a researcher versus an investor.”
– María Ortiz-Aguayo, e-MolMat group
The insights gained from the forum helped the researchers more precisely identify user needs, which will support the development of an improved version of the device and strengthen the project’s positioning for funding calls and other opportunities.
Encouraged by this success, they are already considering participating in similar upcoming events, such as the 2nd edition of the CSIC HACKATHON or the CataloniaBio & HealthTech Connection Day 2025, where they can continue learning and sharing their work with others.
María Ortiz-Aguayo at Transfiere 2025 | ICMAB-CSIC
Transfiere 2025 showcases innovation, global collaboration, and science communication excellence
Transfiere 2025, the European Forum for Science, Technology, and Innovation, took place at the Palacio de Ferias y Congresos de Málaga from March 12 to 14, 2025. The 14th edition of this event attracted over 5,200 professionals from the R&D&I ecosystem, including representatives from more than 30 countries and 90% of Spain's autonomous communities. The forum featured more than 100 panels and conferences with over 400 experts discussing key topics such as artificial intelligence, circular bioeconomy, and new R&D&I financing models.
A significant highlight was the presentation of over 100 innovative prototypes in sectors like health, energy, and technology. Notable examples included a portable device for conducting at-home sleep studies developed by the University of Málaga's Robotics Laboratory, and a medical device by Adamo Robot designed to treat musculoskeletal pathologies using thermoregulated compressed air and high-precision robotics. These showcases underscored Transfiere's role in promoting cutting-edge technological solutions.
The forum also recognized excellence in science communication and innovation through several awards. The 10th 'Foro Transfiere' Journalism Awards honored outstanding work in various media formats, with the inaugural Scientific Outreach Award going to Amador Menéndez Velázquez for his initiative "Ventana al futuro." Additionally, Telefónica Empresas received the 2nd 'Transfiere Tracciona' Innovative Company Award, and Tirecat Health was announced as the winner of the 5th Open Call for Deep Tech Start-ups.
Read more
- Transfiere premia la divulgación científica y la innovación en una edición histórica con más de 5.200 visitantes profesionales | Foro Transfiere (14 March 2025)
- Transfiere 2025 presenta prototipos innovadores en ámbitos como salud, energía y tecnología | Foro Transfiere (13 March 2025)
- Comienza Transfiere 2025 con el foco en la internacionalización del ecosistema I+D+i y las estrategias territoriales de innovación | Foro Transfiere (12 March 2025)
- La inteligencia artificial, la bioeconomía circular y la financiación en I+D+i marcan el inicio de Transfiere 2025 | Foro Transfiere (11 March 2025)