December 2019: The Society of Spanish Researchers in the United Kingdom (SRUK/CERU) and the Banco Santander Foundation have awarded, in their fourth edition, the Emerging Talent Award SRUK 2019 to Dr Marc Vendrell Dr Vendrell received the award for his excellent research career in the development of chemical probes. Those probes can be used for molecular imaging of cellular signaling pathways associated with inflammation or cancer. These techniques can be applied in real-time fundamental biology studies and have the potential to improve the diagnosis and treatment of different diseases. The scientific committee, composed of internationally recognized researchers and chaired by Professor Mercedes Maroto-Valer (Heriot-Watt University), evaluated numerous highly competitive nominations from all over the UK. In the words of Dr Maroto-Valer: "We are delighted to propose Dr Marc Vendrell as the 2019 awardee in recognition of his excellent career track-record which uniquely combines both the Chemistry and Biomedical Research fields. We are very impressed by the high quality of all the nominations received which highlights the profound contributions of Spanish researchers in the UK." Image Marc Vendrell is presented with his SRUK emerging talent award at the UK Embassy of Spain, by the Spanish Ambassador (fifth from left) and Baroness Vareda, Chair of Santander UK (third from left). Vendrell's research group is considered a pioneer worldwide in the design of fluorescent markers for microscopy with unprecedented specificity and sensitivity. His work uses novel chemical fluorophores for their development as specific imaging agents to measure immune activity in real time. The results of his research, combined with the translational development of his work, make Vendrell a perfect example of how investment in basic research has a beneficial impact on society. His career trajectory, according to Borja Baselga, Director of the Banco Santander Foundation, makes Vendrell "a leading exponent of Spanish research not only in the United Kingdom, but internationally, and once again highlights the prestige of Spanish scientists abroad." This is the first time the SRUK Emerging Talent is awarded to a researcher based at the University of Edinburgh. The award ceremony, sponsored by Santander, took place at the UK Embassy of Spain in London. It was presented by the Ambassador and the Baroness Vareda, Chair of Santander UK. Publication date 15 Jul, 2019
