Prof. Beatriz Roldán Cuenya was honored with the “Premio Investigación” (Research Award), which is annually presented to outstanding scientists in any field whose work has a global impact extending beyond their own scientific discipline. For the year 2025, the prestigious award goes to Prof. Dr. Beatriz Roldán Cuenya, director of the Department of Interface Science at the Fritz Haber Institute and expert in the e-conversion Cluster of Excellence. Her groundbreaking research on catalysts for renewable energy-based applications is making a contribution to reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Beatriz Roldán Cuenya (Foto: A. Akhtar, FHI)
The Spanish Geographical Society (Sociedad Geográfica Española, SGE), founded in 1997, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to keeping alive the memory of Spain’s great explorers and recognizing the work of today’s geographers and researchers. The SGE’s activities include expeditions, conferences, publications, research and exploration projects, and the annual presentation of awards. For 26 years now, the SGE awards “have recognized the talent and curiosity of those who help us better understand our planet” – as the SGE states on its website. The awards are the most prestigious recognitions in the world of travel, exploration, geographical and fundamental scientific research establishing bridges among different scientific disciplines, held in Spain.
With this award, the SGE recognizes her valuable contribution in the search for alternative energy sources and in reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Roldáns fundamental research aimed at improving the efficiency and durability of catalytic materials used to produce green hydrogen is a key contribution towards the much needed energy independence of Europe, something that, in light of the current armed conflicts has become urgent. According to the SGE “her work not only has implications in the fields of physics and chemistry but also impacts economic and environmental geography by promoting a more sustainable and decentralized energy model that can redefine territorial and economic dynamics.”
The SGE Awards, presented in eight categories, reflect the founding spirit of the institution: The SGE Spain’s global geographical legacy, fosters cross-cultural understanding, and leads travel projects that advance research, science, art, and culture. The awards ceremony has become the SGE’s most prestigious and significant event and is a cultural highlight in Madrid. The ceremonies have been hosted by renowned journalists, and the event brings together prominent figures from the worlds of culture, travel, research, and Spanish social life. To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the SGE’s founding, Queen Sofía presided over the awards gala in 2017. In 2019, King Felipe led the awards ceremony.
Previous illustrious awardees include Sir David Attenborough and Robert D. Kaplan. This year, the SGE will present its 2025 awards at a ceremony on April 14, 2026, in Madrid, hosted by journalist Ely del Valle.
We warmly congratulate our director Prof. Dr. Roldán Cuenya on receiving the 2025 Research Award of the SGE!