The Sant Joan de Déu Research Institute renews its accreditation as a CERCA centre with a rating of excellent

The Sant Joan de Déu Research Institute (IRSJD), comprising the Hospital Sant Joan de Déu Barcelona, the University of Barcelona, the Polytechnic University of Catalonia, the Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, and the Sant Joan de Déu Research Foundation, has obtained reaccreditation as a CERCA centre with the second-highest score in the evaluation by the Catalan government’s institution. This distinction recognizes the scientific excellence and the IRSJD’s commitment to quality and social impact.

The CERCA Expert Committee’s report highlights clear progress by the Institute compared to the previous evaluation. With this new distinction, the Institute is positioned on the map of Catalonia’s excellent research centres. This quality seal enhances competitiveness, transparency, and the transfer of knowledge to society.

The improvement in accreditation comes at a key moment for the Institute, which promotes a unique model focused on paediatric biomedical research, mental health, and maternal-foetal health. “The CERCA accreditation consolidates our position within the Catalan research system and opens new opportunities for growth, attracting talent, and establishing strategic national and international collaborations,” explains Dr. Joan Comella, director of the IRSJD.

During the visit to the Sant Boi de Llobregat facilities, the director of the CERCA Institute, Dr. Laia Pellejà, learned about the main research projects led by the Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu. Dr. Josep Maria Haro, director of the Teaching, Research, and Innovation Unit of the Parc Sanitari SJD, presented several projects, including the study of the use of AVATAR therapy in the treatment of psychosis, led by psychologist Susana Ochoa; The Health Technology Assessment project in Primary Care and Mental Health, led by Dr. María Rubio-Valera; and the FaceRehab project for the rehabilitation of people with facial paralysis.

CERCA and the IRSJD agree on the need to continue working and combining efforts to keep generating valuable knowledge and fostering strategic alliances that emphasize the need to enhance the transfer of results to the healthcare system and society.