LaDIS, a new way of doing science
One unit, four fields, a shared purpose.
What is LaDIS?
LaDIS is a scientific excellence unit created to break the boundaries between disciplines. It brings together more than 70 researchers across four major scientific fields — biomedical engineering, space science, theoretical physics and climate research — to work collaboratively on complex challenges.
At LaDIS, interdisciplinarity is not a label. It’s a working model.
Our purpose
What happens when a medical problem is approached with tools from quantum physics?
What if a technology built for a Mars mission could help optimise therapies on Earth?
LaDIS was founded to explore exactly these questions — to design a research space where disciplines interact, methods converge and unexpected ideas emerge.
Scientific Foundations
LaDIS is built around four established research groups: BIOFORGE, ERICA, MATHPHYS and GOA. Each brings international expertise in its field, from the development of smart biomaterials to atmospheric modelling, planetary spectroscopy and quantum sensing.
These groups don’t simply coexist — they work together in shared infrastructures, through strategic research lines, and under a coordinated governance model that encourages constant dialogue.
Institutional Framework
LaDIS is an initiative of the University of Valladolid (UVa), one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Spain. The unit has received funding from the “Escalera de Excelencia” programme, a regional initiative co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund designed to consolidate scientific leadership in Castilla y León through strategic investment in high-impact research structures.
LaDIS also connects with national and international funding frameworks, participating in collaborative projects with agencies such as AEI, ESA, JAXA and NASA.
Mission
To conduct interdisciplinary research of scientific excellence, combining fundamental knowledge, cutting-edge technology and a strong commitment to real-world impact.
Vision
To become a European benchmark for collaborative, high-impact science — a model where knowledge is shared, applied and translated into solutions that open futures.
Core Values
LaDIS is built on a foundation of collaboration, innovation, and scientific excellence. Our core values reflect a commitment to interdisciplinary research, social impact, and responsible science. We promote openness, ethical integrity, and support for emerging talent, ensuring that our work not only advances knowledge but also contributes meaningfully to society.
Interdisciplinarity
Innovation
Scientific rigour
Social and technological impact
Openness to collaboration
Institutional responsibility
Support for emerging talent
Key Figures
LaDIS stands out for its strong research performance and strategic investment in innovation. With significant funding secured, high-impact collaborations, and successful tech transfer, our results reflect a long-term commitment to excellence and societal value.
70+ researchers from multiple disciplines
4 consolidated research groups
€9M in research funding since 2018
Active contributions to missions with NASA, ESA and JAXA
2 spin-offs and multiple tech transfer actions
