The Spanish State Research Agency (AEI), under the Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, has announced the final selection of 10 centres of excellence, including CRAG. This recognition consolidates the centre’s trajectory, following its previous Severo Ochoa accreditations for the 2016–2019 and 2020–2024 periods.

The Severo Ochoa accreditation recognises institutions for their scientific excellence, international leadership and impact, following a highly competitive evaluation process conducted by an international panel of experts. The programme aims to strengthen the strategic capacities of leading centres and enhance the international visibility of Spanish science.

Under this call, each accredited centre will receive €4.5 million over four years to support the implementation of its strategic research plan, as well as additional funding linked to the recruitment and training of predoctoral researchers.

This new recognition will enable the launch of an ambitious strategic programme structured around eight interconnected objectives, aimed at reinforcing CRAG’s global leadership in plant biology, in all its dimensions, and in animal genomics. At the core of this plan is a strong commitment to attracting and developing talent, including the incorporation of scientific leaders, new research groups, and specialised technical and data experts in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, spatial multi-omics, and computational biology. At the same time, CRAG will strengthen its training ecosystem by expanding its doctoral programme and enhancing postdoctoral career paths through more competitive contracts and structured mentoring.

To meet the growing demand for data-driven research, CRAG will expand its capabilities in bioinformatics and artificial intelligence, while upgrading its computational and storage infrastructure and strengthening strategic collaborations with leading computing centres. Investments in scientific infrastructure — including advanced genomics platforms, pathogen research facilities, and genome editing technologies — will further enhance its capacity to drive innovation in crop improvement, disease resistance, and climate resilience.

The programme will also prioritise increasing competitive funding and diversifying income sources, as well as intensifying knowledge transfer through stronger partnerships with industry, R&D contracts, patents, and the creation of spin-offs, ensuring that scientific advances reach the agri-food sector. In parallel, CRAG will expand its communication and outreach efforts through multimedia content, educational initiatives and digital tools designed to engage society and inspire future generations.

Finally, CRAG will consolidate its role as an international reference centre by strengthening its involvement in science policy, promoting interdisciplinary initiatives such as a Climate Action Hub, and expanding global strategic collaborations. Altogether, these coordinated actions will reinforce excellence, societal impact and CRAG’s leadership in developing sustainable, science-based solutions to address global agricultural challenges.

“This award is the result of a collective effort by the entire CRAG community, which works every day with commitment and excellence. It is also a boost to look ahead with ambition, strengthening our ability to generate knowledge and contribute, as a community, to major global challenges” said L. Maria Lois, CRAG Director.