23 - Eva Ortega-Paíno profile: “You cannot be a proper researcher without curiosity and curiosity is not only just for science, it’s for living.”

“You cannot be a proper researcher without curiosity and curiosity is not only just for science, it’s for living.” Meet Eva Ortega-Paino who, until recently was National Node Director for Spain. This episode profiles her career which has taken her to Secretary General for Research, Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities, Spain. Spain joined BBMRI-ERIC as an observer three years ago and Eva was their first Director based at the Spanish National Platform for Biobank and Biomodels - Instituto de Salud Carlos III. Eva was far from new to biobanking, having already been involved with BBMRI Sweden. In fact, Eva’s career spans 32-years; it started with a PhD in Chemical Sciences and includes experience across several sectors - academic research, healthcare, industry and the third sector. As she settles into her role at the Ministry, we thought it would be a good time to explore her achievements and hear her advice for young researchers. Further reading: BBMRI Spain: https://www.isciiibiobanksbiomodels.es/en/ BBMRI Podcast: https://www.bbmri-eric.eu/bbmri-eric/bbmri-eric-podcast/ Eva’s Ministry profile page: https://www.ciencia.gob.es/en/Ministerio/Altos-cargos/Secretaria-general-de-investigacion.html Ministry of Science, Innovation and Universities: https://www.ciencia.gob.es/en/