The CaixaResearch Institute will have first-class spaces and science facilities (wet and dry laboratories, technical science services and innovation spaces etc.), offices for management and administration, plus visitor areas for events, training and networking initiatives.

With Dr Josep Tabernero heading science and Dr Antoni Ribas as the head of the advisory committee, the new centre is intended as a hub to attract international talent. Some 500 research professionals are expected to work at the institute, in over 40 research groups and science and technology services, although the capacity could reach 700 people if new uses are given to the centre, such as possible spin-off projects, thanks to the flexible configuration of the lab. With work on the first module now in progress, the prevision is for this stage to be completed in 2025, when the first research groups could move in and start their activity.

The institute aims to become an international leader in the field of immunological research, working synergically and complementing the existing Spanish and Catalan biomedical ecosystems, particularly the four centres linked to the Fundació La Caixa: the Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC), the Institut de Recerca de la Sida (IrsiCaixa), the Institut de Salut Global de Barcelona (ISGlobal) and the Vall d’Hebron Institut d’Oncologia (VHIO).

Sustainable and respectful building

The CaixaResearch Institute will be integrated into the Collserola Natural Park and connect to the Museu de la Ciència CosmoCaixa via a new public square, creating a new urban space. The building will be constructed according to criteria prioritising sustainability and the environment, with renewable energy from solar panelling and geothermal probes, including monitoring and consumption systems, and with rainwater collection systems for watering and internal use. These measures are aimed at achieving 38% energy savings and 40% water savings.

The centre also aims to improve biodiversity with more green spaces, green rooftops and landscaping using native vegetation. Improvements to indoor air quality should also be achieved through maximising air renewal, the use of non-toxic materials and CO₂. sensors.