VHIO has been recognized as a “Severo Ochoa Center of Excellence” since 2022. This prestigious designation, awarded under the State Program for Knowledge Generation and Scientific and Technological Strengthening of the R&D&I System by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation, underscores our commitment to advancing cancer care.
This recognition, the highest distinction a research center can achieve in Spain, provides not only structural support and funding for hiring predoctoral personnel but also affirms VHIO’s leadership in scientific innovation.
The Ministry of Science and Innovation specifically commended VHIO’s international scope and its role as personalized medicine in oncology reference. The institute’s expertise and leadership in clinical trials—particularly early-phase studies and those involving experimental drugs—alongside its seamless integration of preclinical and clinical research through a robust translational research model, were instrumental in securing this accreditation.
Innovation and Education in Oncology: PATIENT Program, VHIO Academy, and SOUND
Following this accreditation, the PATIENT Program, VHIO Academy, and Severo Ochoa Digital Oncology Unit (SOUND) were created.
- The Patient and Citizen Participation Program – PATIENT Program aims to educate and train patients and the public about cancer and oncology research to empower them in decision-making.
- VHIO Academy seeks to integrate and promote cancer-focused training opportunities through initiatives for VHIO staff, as well as for patients and the general public.
- The Severo Ochoa Digital Oncology Unit (SOUND) was created to accelerate research and the implementation of data analysis models and technological platforms in oncology. This multidisciplinary unit focuses on developing digital tools for research, clinical applications, and promoting patient-centered medicine.
- Since 2023, VHIO has also organized an Open Day as part of its efforts to promote scientific outreach and bring science closer to the community.
Severo Ochoa-VHIO PATIENT Program Initiatives
Within the PATIENT Program, several educational and outreach initiatives have been designed and implemented to empower cancer patients and the public. These include:
VHIO Talks: A series of talks on cancer research led by VHIO professionals, incorporating the perspectives of those living with the disease.
“Science vs. Cancer” Documentary Series: A short 10-episode series produced by the CaixaForum+ platform. The episodes combine experts from VHIO Talks with interviews featuring researchers and patients to provide a 360-degree view of the topics covered.
Clinical Trials Workshops: A series of six practical classes where specialists explain key concepts of clinical trials, their protocols, types, and processes. These workshops also offer a space to share experiences and address patient questions.
Patient Association Research Days: Informative sessions for patient associations about the main cancer research lines being developed at VHIO. These events aim to build bridges between associations and VHIO, bringing translational research closer to the public and encouraging participation.
The aid has been funded by the State Agency for Research ( Agencia Estatal de Investigación) (CEX2020-001024-S / AEI / 10.13039 / 501100011033)
