Scientific report 2023

Lluís Blanch Torra
Scientific Director of the Parc Taulí Research and Innovation Institute (I3PT)
I am pleased to present to you the results of the research, innovation and teaching activities of 2023 by the professionals of Parc Taulí, to whom I thank once more for their dedication and commitment, often beyond the call of duty. Likewise, I extend my gratitude to the staff of the I3PT, who have provided the necessary support and managed our activities in an excellent manner, as well as to the managers of the Corporation, and to the presidency, for their support unconditional
This year has been particularly significant. We have worked hard to achieve a strategic milestone that was our goal after becoming a CERCA center: the I3PT has received accreditation from the Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación as a Health Research Institute. This is one of the most prestigious accreditations awarded to health research entities and a recognition of the excellence of our scientific results and the positive impact in the healthcare, social and economic spheres of our research and innovation. Obtaining this accreditation places our institute on the map of centers of excellence in health research in Spain and will allow us to access exclusive funding sources, essential for the sustainable and sustained growth of the I3PT.
Regarding the results this year, 457 scientific articles have been published, of which 255 are in Q1 and 120 in D1. This represents a considerable increase compared to the figures obtained last year and shows the growth and qualitative improvement of our research activity. The indicators also show very positive results in relation to the competitive projects achieved, which have been increased to 38 this year, as well as our innovation unit, which has captured 71 innovative ideas for future innovation projects and has registered 18 new patents.
Furthermore, I am proud to announce that I will continue coordinating the ITEMS platform until 2026, according to the Final Resolution of the call for ISCIII Platforms to support R+D+i in Biomedicine and Health Sciences, published by the Carlos III Institute of Health in December 2023. This designation reaffirms our position as a agent of reference in the revitalization of the industrial sector in the field of health in Spain.
Another noteworthy aspect of this year has been the creation of two new research groups: the hemodynamics, microcirculation and tissue oxygenation research group in the critical patient, and the maternal-fetal medicine research group. These groups represent a step forward in our ability to address critical health challenges and advance research that will have a direct impact on the quality of life of our patients.
We are also very excited about the addition of a new spin-off, Heecap, of which we are partners together with Vall d'Hebron. Heecap is a non-invasive electrostimulation system designed to prevent respiratory muscle atrophy in mechanically ventilated ICU patients. This collaboration represents a unique opportunity to advance innovative solutions that significantly improve care for critically ill patients.
I do not want to fail to point out that, for the first time, research and research support staff met in one day dedicated to evaluating and reflecting on the research activity of the Institute. The aim of this space was to learn, reflect, debate and share the challenges and opportunities of the I3PT, as well as its areas and groups, from a scientific point of view. From the reflection of all those present, it was possible to identify points of improvement and draw much-needed conclusions in order to grow the Institute.
I would like to finish these lines by once again conveying my most sincere gratitude to all the professionals who have contributed to the success of the Institute and the team of people who are part of it, for your humanity, generosity and commitment . This is the last report I will have the honor to present to you as director of the I3PT. It has been a privilege to lead this extraordinary group of people throughout this time and I feel deeply grateful for the trust and support received throughout.
I am convinced that with your talent and dedication, together with the collective effort you have always demonstrated, we will continue to grow and advance in our mission to improve people's health through research and innovation.
Forward, with energy and enthusiasm, towards a 2024 full of new successes and opportunities.