In loving memory of Dr. Joan Guinovart
This annual report is dedicated to the loving memory of Dr. Joan Guinovart, the founder and first director of IRB Barcelona, who died on 1 January 2025 at the age of 77.
A world-renowned biochemist, Dr. Guinovart excelled as a scientist in the study of carbohydrate metabolism, diabetes, and Lafora disease, earning worldwide recognition for his pioneering research done at the IRB Barcelona’s Metabolic Engineering and Diabetes Therapy laboratory, which he led between 2005 and 2021.
In 2005, Joan promoted the creation of our institute, serving as its director until 2018 and continuing as Emeritus Professor thereafter.
Building a new biomedical institute from the ground up and guiding its development into a prestigious research centre was an immense challenge—scientifically, economically, politically, and managerially. Joan overcame all these obstacles through his vision, initiative, determination, creativity, curiosity, influence, and passion.
His legacy will live on in every piece of research we pursue, every breakthrough we achieve, and every life we touch.
Thank you for transforming the lives of so many people, Joan.