The increasing complexity of modern research demands more than just brilliant scientists; it requires strategic foresight and dedicated units to navigate the intricate landscape of funding, collaboration, and institutional goals. As research institutions grapple with evolving priorities and limited resources, the role of strategy units—often operating behind the scenes—is becoming increasingly vital to success. These teams are responsible for translating broad institutional visions into actionable plans, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensuring research aligns with both scientific advancements and societal needs. The effective management of research, it turns out, is as crucial as the research itself.
This need for dedicated strategic planning is particularly evident in regions like Catalonia, Spain, where a commitment to scientific advancement is coupled with a dynamic political and economic environment. Recently, Dr. Teresa Sanchis was appointed Director General of Research at the Department of Research and Universities of the Government of Catalonia, a position that underscores the region’s focus on bolstering its research infrastructure. Dr. Sanchis’s background, as detailed by the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC), highlights a career deeply rooted in research management, beginning with a Physics degree from the University of Valencia and a PhD in Physics with European Distinction from the University of Barcelona (UB). IBEC announced her appointment on September 2, 2025, recognizing her scientific career and commitment to research management.
From Project Management to Institutional Strategy
Dr. Sanchis’s trajectory exemplifies the evolution of expertise needed within research institutions. Her early experience as a technician in academic management at the University of Barcelona and as a project manager at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia (UPC) provided a foundation in the practicalities of research administration. She specialized in European and international projects at UPC, a skill set increasingly valuable as research funding becomes more globally competitive. According to IBEC, she joined the Institute for Bioengineering of Catalonia in 2008, playing a key role in establishing the research project management department during the center’s initial development phase.
This transition from project-level management to institutional strategy is a common theme in the development of effective research administration. Strategy units aren’t simply about securing funding; they’re about creating an environment where research can flourish. This includes identifying emerging research areas, fostering collaborations between different departments and institutions, and streamlining administrative processes. Dr. Sanchis’s leadership of IBEC’s Strategy department since 2016 demonstrates this broader vision, with a focus on initiating strategic projects, collaborations, and institutional partnerships. She has also been the executive coordinator of the Spanish Nanomedicine Platform since 2016.
The Importance of Interdisciplinary Approaches
One of the key challenges facing research institutions today is the need to foster interdisciplinary collaboration. Many of the most pressing problems—climate change, global health, sustainable energy—require expertise from multiple fields. Strategy units can play a crucial role in breaking down silos and encouraging researchers from different disciplines to work together. This requires not only logistical support but also a cultural shift within the institution, promoting a shared understanding of goals and priorities.
Dr. Sanchis’s educational background reflects this emphasis on holistic leadership. In addition to her scientific training, she holds a Master’s degree in Science Leadership and Management from the UPF Barcelona School of Management, and has completed advanced courses in Open Science, Non-Profit Management, and International Development. These qualifications demonstrate a commitment to understanding the broader context of research and the importance of effective communication and collaboration. Her LinkedIn profile confirms her extensive educational background and experience, noting over 500 professional connections.
Navigating Complexity and Ensuring Impact
The role of strategy units extends beyond internal coordination to encompass external engagement. Institutions must actively communicate their research findings to policymakers, industry partners, and the public to ensure that their work has a real-world impact. This requires a sophisticated understanding of communication strategies and the ability to translate complex scientific concepts into accessible language. The increasing emphasis on “Open Science”—promoting the sharing of data and research findings—further underscores the importance of effective communication and collaboration.
As Director General of Research, Dr. Sanchis will be responsible for overseeing these efforts across the Government of Catalonia’s research landscape. Her appointment signals a commitment to strengthening the region’s research capabilities and ensuring that its scientific advancements contribute to economic growth and societal well-being. The success of these initiatives will depend on the ability of strategy units to navigate the complexities of the research ecosystem and foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and impact.
The Department of Research and Universities of the Government of Catalonia has not yet announced specific initiatives under Dr. Sanchis’s leadership, but further details are expected in the coming months. Researchers and stakeholders can locate updates on the department’s website.
This evolving landscape highlights the critical need for skilled professionals dedicated to research strategy. As institutions continue to face increasing pressure to demonstrate value and impact, the role of these units will only turn into more important.
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