Fundació Catalunya La Pedrera supports a new generation of scientific talent as they shape their future
On Saturday, 7 November, Fundació Catalunya La Pedrera brought together the young participants of the 2024–2026 cohort of its Joves i Ciència (Youth and Science) programme at La Pedrera to celebrate the culmination of three years of scientific experiences, learning and personal growth.
Throughout this period, the Foundation has given them the opportunity to experience research first-hand, work alongside scientists and discover leading research institutions, helping them explore their scientific interests and consider their academic and professional futures.
The closing ceremony provided an opportunity to share experiences and highlight the connections formed between participants, their families and the scientific community that has supported them throughout their journey.
An experience that goes beyond scientific training
Through Joves i Ciència, the Foundation offers young people a three-year programme combining hands-on research experiences, opportunities to engage with scientists and personal development.
Participants began their journey with scientific research stays at the Foundation's facility in Son, in the Pallars Sobirà region, before continuing at research centres in Catalonia and international scientific institutions.
These experiences have enabled them to discover what working in a real research environment involves, take on new challenges, develop independence and connect with other young people who share similar interests.
The Foundation makes this journey possible through partnerships with leading research centres, universities, hospitals and scientific institutions, helping bring world-class research opportunities closer to the next generation.
Sharing experiences and inspiring future careers
The closing ceremony placed the young participants at the centre of the event, giving them the opportunity to share their experiences and reflect on how these three years have shaped their personal and scientific development.
One of the highlights was the participation of Luis Lanzetta, a researcher at Universitat Jaume I and a former participant in the very first edition of Joves i Ciència in 2008. Holding a PhD in Chemistry from Imperial College London, he currently conducts research into new materials to improve the efficiency of solar cells. His career illustrates how the opportunities provided by the Foundation can contribute to the development of scientific careers and how former participants can become role models for future generations.
The event also featured a conversation with Marina Ruiz, a former participant in Joves i Ciència and other scientific programmes run by the Foundation, and a member of its Science Fellows community. She shared her experiences and offered the perspective of someone who has already completed this journey.
The ceremony highlighted the personal and scientific connections fostered by the Foundation among participants, as well as the opportunities that continue beyond the three-year programme.
A growing community of scientific talent
Fundació Catalunya La Pedrera maintains its connection with young people through its Science Fellows community, a network bringing together participants from different cohorts and scientific programmes, encouraging the exchange of experiences, knowledge and opportunities.
Since 2008, the Foundation has supported more than 800 young people through Joves i Ciència, providing experiences that help them develop their scientific and personal potential.
With the completion of this latest cohort, Fundació Catalunya La Pedrera continues its commitment to nurturing young scientific talent and providing educational experiences that create opportunities, inspire scientific vocations and help shape the future of research.