Universitat Internacional de Catalunya (UIC Barcelona) will take part in the 2025 edition of 4YFN with eight innovation and transfer projects. The University will be present with a stand on 5 and 6 March, where it will showcase four research projects developed within the University and four startups led by former students who have transformed their ideas into initiatives that highlight the talent, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of the UIC Barcelona university community.

"The projects presented by UIC Barcelona, particularly focused on healthcare, highlight the university’s ability to generate innovative solutions with social impact," explains Dr Román Pérez, vice-rector for Research, Innovation and Knowledge Transfer at UIC Barcelona. These projects will be showcased at 4YFN 2025, the global platform that connects startups, investors, and companies to drive the future of technology and innovation, reinforcing UIC Barcelona’s role as a key player in the university innovation and transfer ecosystem.

With regard to patented products resulting from competitive projects in the biosanitary field, UIC Barcelona will present Spinertial, Biomelt, Microbiome to Cure Acne and Nanobesity.

The Spinertial device is the result of synergies between physiotherapy research and bioengineering, designed to support the prevention and rehabilitation of the cervical area. It can be used both autonomously at home by patients and in clinical settings by specialists. The sustainable cosmetic Biomelt is also an outcome of bioengineering research. In this case, thanks to the use of biomaterials, the university has developed a biodegradable, plastic-free product that can be tailored to the needs of dermocosmetic companies.

In the biomedical field, Microbiome to Cure Acne and Nanobesity offer innovative, minimally invasive solutions for combating acne, obesity, and diabetes. Specifically, Microbiome to Cure Acne helps reduce antibiotic use in acne treatment by identifying a bacterium that inhibits the agent responsible for the condition. Meanwhile, Nanobesity enables the management of obesity and insulin resistance through the nasal administration of the first nanomedicine directly targeting the brain.

In terms of business projects, the university will also present the startups Diip Artificial Intelligence, Additive Spaces, Brickbro and MedBrain Global.

Diip AI, founded by Business Administration graduate David Santana, is a DeepTech startup providing AI-driven solutions to boost productivity in the construction and industrial sectors. Additive Spaces, founded by former Architecture student, Jesús Subirana, promotes sustainable innovation in construction through processes, materials and advanced solutions, with additive manufacturing as the core technology. Brickbro, created by Business Administration graduate Guillermo Preckler, employs cutting-edge technologies such as Big Data, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning to offer innovative solutions for commercial property searches and decision-making. Finally, MedBrain Global, led by UIC Barcelona Medicine graduate Pol Ricart, addresses the need for accessible and accurate medical diagnoses. The project consists of a mobile application that guides users through a clinical interview and physical examination, providing a precise diagnosis and treatment plan in fewer than 15 questions.

"Each of these initiatives demonstrates our ability to tackle real-world challenges from an innovative perspective, contributing to a more sustainable, efficient, and accessible future," says Dr Román Pérez. "At 4YFN 2025, we will have the opportunity to showcase our commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship, in line with our social commitment. The eight projects presented highlight the transformation of ideas into impactful initiatives, serving as a clear example of the talent and entrepreneurial drive of our university community," adds the Vice-Rector.

UIC Barcelona’s mission is to contribute to the advancement of knowledge, technology, and quality of life. Research at UIC Barcelona is structured around two strategic pillars encompassing all multidisciplinary research conducted within the University’s scientific community: "Health and comprehensive care" and "People and social innovation". The different lines of research focused on these areas are dynamic and inclusive, designed to evolve and adapt to the different needs of society.