Institute of Cosmos Sciences of the University of Barcelona (ICCUB)

A María de Maeztu unit since 2014

The Institute of Cosmos Sciences of the University of  Barcelona (ICCUB) is an interdisciplinary center devoted to fundamental research in cosmology, astrophysics and particle physics. It was created in 2006 as the instrument of the University of Barcelona for the active support of research in these fields, to promote experimental physics and instrument development, enable a significant participation of the University of Barcelona in large international collaborations, and attract highly qualified scientific personnel.

Research at ICCUB is conducted with the aim of answering some of the most intriguing and fundamental questions in Cosmology:

  • What are the origin and fate of the Universe?
  • Which are the ultimate constituents of the Universe?
  • Why does the Universe have its present appearance?

These questions reveal the intimate connection between particle physics and astrophysics and therefore demand a multidisciplinary approach. Research at ICCUB intends to tackle them from the theoretical, observational and experimental viewpoints.

In addition, the institute has a strong technology program aimed at fostering its participation in observational astronomy and particle physics international collaborations. ICCUB research also generates products and technologies transferable to industry and society.

Key Facts of Institute of Cosmos Sciences of the University of Barcelona (ICCUB)

85% Q1 Journals
Of a total of 295 articles published in 2021, 85% was published in first quartile journals.
15 PhDs
Number of Ph.D. graduates out of a total staff of 166 researchers.
10 ICREA
Number of ICREA Reserch Professors at ICCUB.
5 ERC
Number of ERC Grants obtained since 2016.
The flexible SO-MdM program funds are an opportunity for our Institute to attract the best international researchers and develop our frontline research on the cosmos. This profound challenge helps bring together our researchers to encourage innovation, research excellence and the relation with technology.
Jordi Miralda-Escudé
Scientific Director at ICCUB