Download the programme of the event.

DAY 1

2 October 2025

  • 10 h

     

    Shuttle service from Barcelona Airport and Sants Estació to Cap Roig gardens

  • 11.45 h

     

    Arrival to Cap Roig

    Icebreaking activity around the Cap Roig gardens

  • 13.45 h

     

    Welcome lunch

  • 15 h

     

    Welcome speech

    Àngel Font,
    Deputy General Director of Research and Fellowships, ”la Caixa” Foundation

    FLOOR 0, AUDITORIUM

  • 15.15 h

     

    SESSION #1: Codes of disease and precision therapies

    FLOOR 0, AUDITORIUM

    Moderator: Vivienne Parry

    #1.1 – Decoding disease: genetic signatures in diagnosis and prevention

    How can the molecular ‘signatures’ embedded in our genome help predict, diagnose, or even prevent disease? This session explores how genetic and molecular profiling are transforming our understanding of disease onset and progression. From rare syndromes to complex multifactorial conditions, we will examine how cutting-edge research is unravelling these biological codes to enable earlier detection, personalised interventions, and new therapeutic pathways.

    4 speakers
    Discussion

    #1.2 – Precision delivered: the next frontier in targeted therapies

    Therapeutic precision has never been more critical. In this session, we spotlight the latest breakthroughs in targeted delivery systems. From smart nanocarriers to genetically engineered immune cells, we explore the technologies that aim to deliver potent treatments exactly where—and when—they are needed, minimising off-target effects and improving clinical outcomes.

    4 speakers
    Discussion

  • 17 h

     

    SESSION #2: Health through the lens of immunology: CaixaResearch Institute’s vision

    FLOOR 0, AUDITORIUM

    Moderator: Vivienne Parry

    Speaker: Josep Tabernero, Chair of the Internal Scientific Committee of CaixaResearch Institute

    The CaixaResearch Institute represents a new benchmark in European biomedical research, with a bold focus on the immune system’s role across diseases. Designed to attract world-class talent and support high-impact science, the Institute will integrate advanced technologies and computational platforms to accelerate discoveries in immunology, with direct translational applications in diagnostics, therapeutics, and public health.

  • 17.45 h

     

    End of the 1st day sessions

  • 18 h

     

    Trip to the hotel PARADOR AIGUABLAVA

  • 20.30 h

     

    Dinner

    PARADOR AIGUABLAVA


DAY 2

3 October 2025

  • 8.30 h

     

    Transfer from the hotel to Cap Roig

  • 9.15 h

     

    Parallel working sessions


    SESSION #3A: Metrics and merits: research evaluation in transition

    FLOOR 0, ROOM 1

    Moderator: Ismael Ràfols

    This session brings together researchers who also serve as evaluators—on funding panels, editorial boards, and peer-review committees—to discuss the challenges of scientific assessment. From the criteria that guide grant selection to the pressures of publishing and the growing influence of open science, we will examine how we define scientific merit today—and how we might do it better tomorrow.


    SESSION #3B: From discovery to delivery: making advanced therapies accessible

    FLOOR 1

    Moderator: Elena Garralda Cabanas / Silvia Martín Lluesma (TBC)

    This session examines the structural, regulatory, and societal challenges that determine whether breakthrough therapies can be scaled equitably. The discussion will address cost sustainability, health system readiness, global access, and ethical implications.

  • 10.45 h

     

    Coffee-break

  • 11.15 h

     

    SESSION #4: Global shifts, uncertain times: competing for talent and trust

    FLOOR 0, AUDITORIUM

    Moderator: Vivienne Parry

    This session addresses the challenges of retaining scientific talent especially in Southern Europe, the influence of geopolitics on research funding and mobility, and the societal trust required to sustain public investment in science. We’ll explore strategies to strengthen scientific leadership and resilience in an increasingly competitive and uncertain world.

  • 12.45 h

     

    Closing speech

    FLOOR 0, AUDITORIUM

    Josep Maria Coronas, General Director, ”la Caixa” Foundation

  • 13 h

     

    Lunch

  • 14.15 h

     

    End of the meeting. Shuttle service to Barcelona Airport and Sants Estació