Regional Councillor of Education, Science and Universities Emilio Viciana visited IMDEA Water this Monday to learn about the lines of research and the projects carried out at the institute. Mr. Viciana was received by the director of the centre, Dr. Irene de Bustamante.

During the tour of the laboratories and pilot plants, Viciana spoke with the research staff. The councillor highlighted “the commitment of the Madrid community to excellent research” and the scientific work and transfer to society carried out at IMDEA Water.

In addition, he showed special interest in learning about lines of research focused on the effects of microplastics on aquatic and terrestrial organisms. The institute has a unit specialised in the analysis of these particles, which allows in-depth study and presence of these contaminants in water, soil and biota.

The meeting was also attended by the regional Vice Councillor of Universities, Research and Science, Ana Ramírez de Molina; the director of the Madrid Institute for Rural, Agrarian and Food Research and Development (IMIDRA), Mónica Martínez Castañeda, and the president of the Board of Trustees of IMDEA Water, Prof Rafael Fernández Rubio.

Homage to Rafael Fernández Rubio

The visit ended with a tribute to the president of the IMDEA Water Board of Trustees, Rafael Fernández Rubio. The emeritus professor received a plaque of gratitude from Viciana for his 15 years of dedication to research as the head of the institution’s Board of Trustees.