The Government of Catalonia has awarded in a ceremony at the Palau de la Generalitat the Gold Medal of the Government of Catalonia to Caterina Biscari, Director of the ALBA Synchrotron since 2012, in recognition of her scientific and professional career and her contribution to the development and visibility of research carried out in Catalonia. This year, the distinction has also been awarded to chef Ferran Adrià.

The Gold Medal is the highest distinction awarded by the Government of Catalonia and recognises individuals who have rendered eminent and extraordinary services to Catalonia in the political, social, economic, cultural or scientific fields.

In granting the award, the Government highlights how Caterina Biscari's career combines scientific excellence, service to society and collaborative leadership, and acknowledges her contribution to strengthening the visibility of research carried out in Catalonia. It also remarks her influence as a role model for women in science and her contribution to increasing their visibility in decision-making bodies within European research.

Caterina Biscari leads the ALBA Synchrotron since 2012, a period during which the facility has experienced significant scientific and institutional growth and consolidated its role as one of the country's leading scientific research infrastructures. In November, Harry Westfahl Jr. will succeed Caterina Biscari as new Director of the ALBA Synchrotron.