Daniel Ruiz Iruela serves as the Governor of EATRIS Spain and the Deputy Director General for International Research Programs and Institutional Relations at the Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), which is the funding body of EATRIS Spain. As the inaugural country in the EATRIS Spotlight programme, EATRIS Spain will be showcased for its scientific excellence and capabilities, enhancing its visibility on both national and European levels.
You can also read interviews with Laura Garcia Bermejo (National Director of EATRIS Spain) and David Velasco Gail (National Coordinator of EATRIS Spain).
Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is Daniel Ruiz Iruela, and I am Spainish. I hold a degree in Chemical Sciences and a master’s in Research and Development in the Chemical and Pharmaceutical Industry. Currently, I serve as the Deputy Director General for International Research Programs and Institutional Relations at the Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), a role I balance with being the General Coordinator of the Support Unit for the Institute’s Direction.
Since 2020, I have served as a career civil servant in the role of a Senior Specialist in Public Research Organisations. My career spans various management roles in both public and private sectors, including the Ministry of Science and Innovation, consultancy firms, and pharmaceutical companies. I specialise in institutional relations, scientific diplomacy, R&D management and evaluation, and coordinating technological and innovation cooperation projects at both national and international levels.
With over 12 years of professional experience, prior to joining ISCIII, I managed research and innovation for public organisations such as the State Research Agency (AEI) through the Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology (FECYT). My work involved designing and establishing transnational public-private partnership networks, such as the ERA-NET structures of Horizon Europe. I also worked for two years at the Spanish Embassy in New Delhi, India, for the Spanish Innovation Agency (CDTI) as an International Programme Manager. In the private sector, I worked in quality control, analytical chemistry, and project management consultancy under the Horizon 2020 framework.
How are you connected to EATRIS and what does it mean to you that Spain is a member of EATRIS?
As the Deputy Director General for International Research Programs and Institutional Relations at ISCIII, I oversee our role as a connecting node between the Spanish National Health System (SNS) and the Spanish Science, Technology and Innovation System (SICTI). ISCIII serves as a bridge between the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Science, fostering collaboration and integration. We are actively involved in international infrastructures, such as ESFRI Landmarks, to which EATRIS belongs.
ISCIII plays a pivotal role in supporting Health Research Institutes (IIS) across Spain, ensuring their coordination and integration within the national research landscape. For me, EATRIS symbolises internationalisation, bringing together top-tier resources, services, and cutting-edge knowledge. It promotes innovation, open access, and the creation of a stronger Europe within the European Research Area (ERA). Specifically, EATRIS aims to bring scientific solutions closer to patients through its network. It embodies health, facilitating and accelerating the development of medical products, preventive strategies, and innovative biomedical technologies in translational research.
Being part of EATRIS means that Spain is at the forefront of biomedical innovation, working collaboratively to improve health outcomes across Europe. It’s about making a tangible difference in patients’ lives through science and cooperation.
Tell us a little more about your work, and what does a typical week look like for you?
My typical week revolves around ‘solutions, meetings, and decisions’ from early in the morning until late in the evening. As the Deputy Director General for International Research Programs and Institutional Relations, my responsibilities are vast and varied, and my role is more managerial, which can differ from the tasks of a researcher in an EATRIS institution.
I manage institutional relations with national, European, and international administrations and organisations. This includes handling international relations and participation in international bodies. My work involves implementing and developing EU initiatives in coordination with regional governments, promoting the integration of Spanish research resources into EU scientific programmes, and maximising opportunities for our researchers.
I provide support to National Health System centres and researchers, guiding them on accessing services, procedures, grants, and EU project funding. Additionally, I promote joint action plans with regional health services and coordinate activities related to the institute’s operations. I also foster relationships with other Spanish public administrations, private entities, and participate in forums organised by regional governments.
One of my key roles is directing and coordinating the transfer of research results through our Knowledge Transfer Office, ensuring that scientific advancements are effectively translated into practical applications.
What is translational research for you?
For me, translational research is the process of applying ideas, knowledge, and discoveries generated through basic scientific research to the treatment or prevention of human diseases. In Spain, Health Research Institutes embody this concept, being embedded in major hospitals of the National Health System, where doctors, researchers, and patients collaborate closely. The philosophy of “bench to bedside” is at the heart of translational medicine for me, bridging basic research and patient care. These structures enable the practical implementation of scientific breakthroughs, ensuring that innovations directly benefit patient health and clinical outcomes.
In Spain, translational research is epitomised by the Health Research Institutes (IIS) and, for me, these IIS embody the very concept of translational research. These institutes are embedded within the principal hospitals of the National Health System, facilitating the transition of scientific discoveries from the laboratory to clinical applications. They integrate multidisciplinary teams and resources, where doctors, researchers, and patients collaborate closely, bridging the gap between basic research and practical implementation to ensure that research findings directly benefit patient care and public health.
Why did you decide to work in the translational medicine field?
I chose to work in the translational medicine field due to its profound impact on society, promoting equity and improving the lives of individuals. This field advances scientific knowledge and ensures that the latest medical innovations reach patients, enhancing healthcare outcomes for everyone.
The ISCIII has a pivotal role in advancing biomedical research and public health. At ISCIII, we bridge the gap between scientific research and clinical practice, ensuring that medical innovations translate into real-world health solutions. The institute supports cutting-edge research, fosters collaboration among scientists, clinicians, and policymakers, and enhances the quality of healthcare through evidence-based practices. Being part of such an impactful organisation allows me to contribute to the development of innovative therapies and improve patient outcomes.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I still feel quite young at 37, but if I could advise my younger self, it would be: keep nurturing your passion for fighting for what you believe in, and especially for what can be achieved through public service. Stay motivated and dedicated to your ideals, as the work done in the public sector can make a significant difference. Believe in the impact of your efforts and continue striving to improve public health and research.
If you were a drug, vaccine or diagnostic, what would you be and why?
It’s difficult to choose because many drugs, medical devices, and vaccines have saved lives and improved quality of life. However, I would choose the COVID-19 vaccine due to its profound social impact. It was developed in record time, highlighting the fragility of our society and healthcare system, while emphasising the value of healthcare professionals and researchers. It showcased the importance of scientific innovation and collaboration in overcoming global challenges.
If you had unlimited resources and could solve one research problem, what would it be?
There are many global challenges, but I would focus on three pillars:
- Antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
- Cancer
- Climate change related to health
In my eyes, these issues represent critical threats to public health and require urgent, comprehensive solutions. With unlimited resources, I would dedicate efforts to overcoming these challenges, ensuring a healthier future for all.
What would it surprise people to know about you?
One of my notable achievements includes being awarded the Silver Cross of Isabel the Catholic for my role in managing the 2015 Nepal earthquake crisis at the Spanish Embassy in New Delhi. During those delicate moments, I faced the tragedy with a combination of composure and empathy. My passion for public service led me to coordinate numerous calls to families, remote temples, and isolated hotels in the mountains to create safe spaces and help locate nationals and foreign compatriots.
Although, all efforts possible often feel insufficient, this experience underscored the importance of solid institutions and dedicated personnel in the face of such devastating events.
