UPM brings the technology of the future to the public at the first edition of “UPM Investiga” at Matadero Madrid
- The Master Battery Chair – UPM, represented on the panels of industry chairs with its research areas in energy storage and the energy transition.
Madrid, 19 March 2026. On 18 and 19 March, the Polytechnic University of Madrid (UPM) held the first edition of UPM Investiga, a research fair that transformed the Design Centre at Matadero Madrid into a meeting place for science, technology and the public.
Over the course of two days, the university showcased its scientific and technological potential through an open, interactive programme designed to bring university research closer to the general public, businesses and institutions.
An immersive experience to discover innovation
Under the slogan “Come and discover the technology of the future”, UPM Investiga gave attendees a first-hand insight into how the university’s researchers are working to address major global challenges.
The exhibition stood out for its practical nature, with live demonstrations that helped visitors understand the real-world impact of research in key areas of society.
Among the most striking activities were a digital recreation of haute couture, a laser show, applications of artificial intelligence in drones and racing cars, and the presentation of aerospace developments such as the UPM Sat-4 satellite.
Seven strategic areas for the future
The event has structured its content around seven key areas that reflect the diversity of the UPM’s research ecosystem:
- Architecture and Society
- Bioeconomy and the Environment
- Energy and Transport
- Space and Security
- Artificial Intelligence and Digitalisation
- Industry of the Future
- Health and Wellbeing
These areas have served as a common thread for showcasing innovative projects that have a direct impact on everyday life.
Accessible and dynamic science communication
The programme has included presentations, panel discussions and ‘3-minute’ PhD thesis competitions, making scientific knowledge accessible in a clear and engaging way.
The UPM Industry Chairs
The UPM Industry Chairs played a significant role at the event, showcasing their objectives and areas of focus as key instruments for collaboration between the university and the business community. In this context, the spotlight was on their contribution to innovation, entrepreneurship and knowledge transfer.
Through informative panels and their inclusion in various thematic sessions, the active chairs were showcased, along with the projects and initiatives they are developing in partnership with companies in strategic fields.
Within this framework, the Master Battery Chair at the Polytechnic University of Madrid has been active in the field of energy storage, focusing on the development of battery technologies, specialised training and their application in industrial settings. Its work contributes to the advancement of solutions linked to the energy transition and the integration of renewable energy.
The participation of these chairs highlights the importance of structured collaboration between universities and industry, fostering synergies that drive knowledge transfer, applied innovation and the development of solutions with a real impact on society.
A bridge between the university and society
UPM Investiga has achieved its aim of bringing university research closer to society, fostering dialogue between the academic world, the business community and the general public.
With this first edition, the initiative has established itself as a leading platform for highlighting the value of university research and its contribution to technological, economic and social development.
