Honoris Causa - Universitat Politècnica de València

Cristina Garmendia

A leading figure in the field of biotechnology and scientific innovation. His career combines research, public administration, and entrepreneurship, driving the development of R&D&I and the transfer of knowledge between science and industry through international institutions and projects.

Invested on Apr 24, 2026, by Rector José E. Capilla Romá

Francisco Chinesta

An international leader in the field of computational engineering. His innovative work focuses on the development of advanced real-time simulation and modeling methods, with applications in industry and science, integrating research, technology transfer, and collaboration with world-class institutions.

Invested on Apr 24, 2026, by Rector José E. Capilla Romá

Antoni Muntadas

A key figure in international contemporary art. His transdisciplinary work explores the relationship between art, media, public space, and power, combining creative practice, research, and teaching at leading institutions worldwide.

Invested on Nov 26, 2025, by Rector José E. Capilla Romá

Dolores Higueras

A pioneer in maritime history, underwater archaeology, and the conservation of cultural heritage in Spain, she has received numerous awards, including the Naval Merit Cross, the PERIPLO Research Award, and the MADBLUE Award for her career in ocean science.

Invested on Sep 12, 2025, by Rector José E. Capilla Romá

Enrique Lores

President and CEO of HP Inc., one of the world's leading technology companies, known for its innovations in printing, personal computing, and software solutions.

Invested on Jun 28, 2024, by Rector José E. Capilla Romá

Mariana Mazzucato

Lecturer at University College London, she directs the Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose. A renowned economist, she challenges public-private myths. His books won awards and worldwide acclaim.

Invested on Jun 21, 2023, by Rector José E. Capilla Romá

Paul Lecoq

A passionate entrepreneur and visionary, he has dedicated his life to technological innovation. With a creative mind and unwavering determination, she leads disruptive projects that positively impact society.

Invested on Mar 3, 2023, by Rector José E. Capilla Romá

Jorge Garcés Ferrer

Professor, researcher and expert in social policies, he stands out for his work at Georgetown University. Recognized for his contribution to European social policy and long-term care.

Invested on Oct 9, 2022, by Rector José E. Capilla Romá

Antonio Font i Arellano

An architect with a passion for innovation and sustainability, he creates spaces that merge functionality and aesthetics. His creative approach redefines the urban landscape with harmony and avant-garde vision.

Invested on May 20, 2022, by Rector José E. Capilla Romá

Francisco Javier Benedicto

Spanish engineer, outstanding in telecommunications. With experience at the European Space Agency, he contributed to the first space programme of the European Union and ESA.

Invested on Feb 4, 2022, by Rector José E. Capilla Romá

Anne Margulies

Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Harvard from 2010 until her retirement in May 2021. He led the information technology strategy and services that support the University's educational and research mission, overseeing Harvard University Information Technology (HUIT).

Invested on Nov 21, 2019, by Rector Francisco J. Mora Mas

Jean-Pierre Sauvage

French chemist and Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2016 for his research in molecular machines. He is Professor Emeritus at the University of Strasbourg and a member of the France Academy of Sciences, recognized for his work in supramolecular chemistry.

Invested on Mar 12, 2019, by Rector Francisco J. Mora Mas

John F. Mcgregor

Statistician recognized for his work in statistical process control and multivariate analysis applied to industry. He is a distinguished professor at McMaster University and co-founder of ProSensus Inc., a spin-off company from his research.

Invested on Nov 22, 2018, by Rector Francisco J. Mora Mas

Francisco Juan Martínez Mojica

Spanish biologist and professor of Genetics at the University of Alicante, he is recognized for his discovery of the CRISPR system, a revolutionary tool in biotechnology and molecular genetics.

Invested on Sep 19, 2017, by Rector Francisco J. Mora Mas

Adela Cortina

Spanish philosopher known for her work on ethics. After studying Philosophy in Valencia and being influenced by Habermas and Apel in Munich, she became a professor of Moral Philosophy until 2017. He promoted a dialogical ethic as the basis for civic morality in pluralistic societies.

Invested on Dec 20, 2016, by Rector Francisco J. Mora Mas

Roger Malina

Astrophysicist and editor of Leonardo Magazine. He directed the Observatoire Astronomique de Marseille Provence and presides over the Leonardo Association, promoting interdisciplinarity between art and science. He is a professor at the University of Texas, Dallas.

Invested on Sep 8, 2016, by Rector Francisco J. Mora Mas

Vladimir E. Fortov

Russian physicist, specializing in thermal and plasma physics. He directed the Institute of Extreme States Thermophysics and presided over the Russia Academy of Sciences. He was Minister of Science and Technology and received multiple academic honors.

Invested on Jun 23, 2016, by Rector Francisco J. Mora Mas

Juan Ignacio Cirac Sasturain

Spanish physicist outstanding in quantum information theory and quantum computing. He has worked at the Max Planck Institute and the University of Innsbruck, contributing more than 500 articles to leading journals in his field.

Invested on Sep 1, 2015, by Rector Francisco J. Mora Mas

Kathryn Gustafson

Originally from Yakima, Washington, she started in textile design in New York before focusing on landscaping in Paris. Founder of Gustafson-Porter and Gustafson-Guthrie-Nichol, she stands out for sustainable and world-renowned designs such as the Westergasfabriek Culture Park in Amsterdam.

Invested on Jun 24, 2015, by Rector Francisco J. Mora Mas

Jürgen Schadeberg

A German photographer, he is known for documenting South African life and culture during apartheid. He photographed key moments such as the Defiance Campaign and the treason trial, as well as figures such as Nelson Mandela and influential jazz musicians.

Invested on Sep 4, 2014, by Rector Francisco J. Mora Mas

Karlheinz Brandenburg

German electrical engineer recognized for his crucial role in the development of the MPEG-1/2 Audio Layer III audio compression format, commonly known as MP3.

Invested on Jun 24, 2014, by Rector Francisco J. Mora Mas

Juan Luis Arsuaga Ferreras

Spanish paleoanthropologist, professor of Paleontology at the Complutense University of Madrid. He is recognized for his research at the Atapuerca sites and his contributions to the study of human evolution.

Invested on Oct 4, 2012, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

Enrique Ballestero Pareja

Agronomist and economist, professor emeritus at the Polytechnic University of Valencia. Founder of CEPADE in Madrid, he was a deputy for the PSOE in three legislatures.

Invested on Jun 22, 2012, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

José Barea Tejeiro

He holds a PhD in Economics and Business Administration from the Complutense University of Madrid, and was Professor Emeritus of Public Finance at the Autonomous University of Madrid. He excelled as an expert in public services, holding key positions in finance, social security, and public enterprise.

Invested on Jun 22, 2012, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

Vicente Todolí Cervera

An art historian and exhibition curator, he stood out as director of the IVAM and the Tate Modern. He founded the Todolí Citrus Foundation in Palmera and received the GAC Award in 2012.

Invested on Oct 6, 2011, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

Antonio Pellicer

Spanish obstetrician and gynecologist. Founder and co-president of the Valencian Institute of Infertility, he is a full professor at the University of Valencia and has been president of the Spanish Fertility Society.

Invested on Jun 15, 2011, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

Michael López-Alegría

A Spanish-American astronaut, he flew five space missions, including Crew Dragon in 2022. A graduate in systems engineering and aerospace, he flew more than thirty aircraft models for the US Navy and is currently preparing for his sixth mission in 2024.

Invested on Sep 28, 2010, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

Francisco Torreblanca

Internationally renowned Spanish pastry chef, noted for his innovation and purity of flavors. Awarded as Best Master Pastry Chef in Spain and Europe, known for making the wedding cake of the Prince and Princess of Asturias in 2004.

Invested on Jun 21, 2010, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

Ferran Adriá

Spanish chef, known for his revolutionary cuisine at El Bulli restaurant, which he led from 1984 until its closure in 2011. He is considered one of the most innovative chefs in the world and has profoundly influenced contemporary gastronomy.

Invested on Jun 21, 2010, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

Jacques Diouf

Senegalese international civil servant, best known for his role as Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) from 1994 to 2011.

Invested on Jun 9, 2009, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

Valentín Fuster

Spanish cardiologist known for his research in cardiovascular diseases. He has been president of the American Heart Association and director of the Carlos III National Center for Cardiovascular Research in Madrid.

Invested on Jun 20, 2008, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

Zubin Mehta

Indian conductor, known for his international career and associations with major orchestras such as the Vienna Philharmonic and the Israel Philharmonic. His work has spanned a diverse repertoire and he has been acclaimed for his interpretation of classical music and opera.

Invested on May 24, 2008, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

Enrique Iglesia

Professor of Chemical Engineering at UC Berkeley, he is recognized for innovations in catalysts and industrial processes, including methanol conversion, methane activation, and advances in FT technology. Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Catalyst, he has received prestigious international awards for his research.

Invested on Nov 7, 2007, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

Juan Roig Alfonso

Spanish businessman born in Valencia in 1949. He is known for being the president and main shareholder of Mercadona, the largest supermarket chain in Spain. Roig has led the transformation and expansion of Mercadona, making it a leading company in the food distribution sector in Spain.

Invested on Jun 15, 2007, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

Belisario Betancur

Colombian politician and writer, president of Colombia (1982-1986). During his term of office, he promoted peace and national reconciliation. He was also noted as a writer and member of the Colombian Academy of Language

Invested on Oct 28, 2005, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

Pedro Duque

A Spanish aeronautical engineer and astronaut, he was the first Spanish to travel to space in 1998. Former Minister of Science and Innovation of Spain.

Invested on Oct 6, 2005, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

Amable Liñán

Spanish aeronautical engineer and world expert in combustion. Professor Emeritus at the Polytechnic University of Madrid, he has researched at NASA and ESA, receiving the Prince of Asturias Award for Scientific Research in 1993 and other international recognitions.

Invested on Jun 16, 2005, by Rector Juan Juliá Igual

Luis Blanes

Spanish composer and musicologist. Professor of Counterpoint and Fugue in Seville and Harmony in Valencia, he composed nearly 200 works, including choral music, organ works and songs. Member of the Academy of Fine Arts of San Carlos.

Invested on Jan 19, 2005, by Rector Francisco J. Sanz Fernández

Amparo Rivelles

Spanish actress known for her extensive career in film, theater, and television. He participated in numerous films and plays, leaving a significant mark on the Spanish cultural scene of the twentieth century.

Invested on Jan 19, 2005, by Rector Francisco J. Sanz Fernández

Juan Francisco Gálvez Morros

Professor and director in various academic institutions, as well as researcher and prolific author in zootechnics and animal feed. Internationally recognized, he received multiple awards and honors for his contribution to veterinary science and agronomy.

Invested on Apr 23, 2004, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

David W. Thursfield

A prominent Ford executive, he was key in the modernization of the Almussafes plant and in strategic decisions such as the launch of the Ford KA. Promoted to Executive Chairman of Ford of Europe, he led significant transformations and key product launches.

Invested on Feb 5, 2004, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Luis Giménez Lorente

Collector of Valencian historical cartography. A prominent member of IMCOS and the Spanish Society of Cartography, he dedicated his life to acquiring and studying maps, books and historical documents. His legacy, including Joan Martines' Atlas of 1570, enriches Valencia's cultural heritage today.

Invested on Dec 12, 2003, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Princesa Muna Al Hussein

Known for her outstanding humanitarian work in Jordan and internationally. She has worked tirelessly on health, education, and social welfare initiatives, especially through her role as president of multiple charities and foundations.

Invested on Oct 2, 2003, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

José Antonio Marina

Spanish philosopher and professor of philosophy at La Cabrera. He stands out for his research on intelligence and creativity, addressing topics from ethics to politics. He collaborates in the media and is the author of works such as The Mystery of the Lost Will and Dictionary of Feelings.

Invested on Jun 26, 2003, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Robin Thompson

Dr. Robin Thompson, an expert in statistics applied to genetics and biometrics, developed the REML method to estimate variability in animal genetics. He worked at ARCUS, ABRO and Rothamsted Research, and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh and an honorary professor.

Invested on Nov 8, 2002, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Daniel Gianola

A geneticist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, he is recognized for applying Bayesian and nonparametric methodologies in quantitative genetics for genomic selection in animal and agricultural breeding, and for predicting complex traits and diseases using advanced regression models.

Invested on Nov 8, 2002, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Jean Dausset

French immunologist, awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1980 for his discoveries on histocompatibility antigens. His research revolutionized the understanding of autoimmune diseases and organ transplants.

Invested on Jun 28, 2002, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Nicolás Redondo

Spanish trade unionist and politician, general secretary of the UGT from 1976 to 1994. He played a crucial role in the democratic transition and was a member of parliament for Vizcaya. His legacy includes important union struggles and criticism of the government's economic policies.

Invested on Dec 12, 2001, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Marcelino Camacho Abad

Spanish trade unionist and politician. Founder of Comisiones Obreras (CC.OO.) in 1957, he challenged the Franco regime and fought for labour rights. Imprisoned several times, his struggle became a symbol of resistance and social justice in Spain.

Invested on Dec 12, 2001, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Francisco Brines Bañó

A Spanish poet, a member of the Royal Spanish Academy since 2001, he has received numerous literary awards, including the National Poetry Prize in 1987 and the Cervantes Prize in 2020 for his contribution to Spanish letters.

Invested on Oct 4, 2001, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Miquel Batllori Munne

Spanish historian and Jesuit priest. Specialising in the history of the Church and Catalonia, he was an intellectual committed to Catalan culture and the defence of the Catalan language.

Invested on May 18, 2001, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Vicente Ferrer

Spanish aid worker and activist dedicated to rural development in India. He founded the Vicente Ferrer Foundation, dedicated to improving the living conditions of the most disadvantaged communities in the Asian country.

Invested on Oct 6, 2000, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Enric Valor i Vives

Valencian writer and philologist recognized for his contribution to the Valencian language and culture. A prolific author, his literary and linguistic works enrich the cultural heritage of the Valencian Community.

Invested on Dec 22, 1999, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Montserrat Caballé

"Spanish soprano of world renown. Known for her exceptional voice and impeccable technique, she excelled in operas such as ""Norma"" and ""Lucia di Lammermoor"". His legacy includes numerous recordings and collaborations with other great singers and conductors."

Invested on Sep 28, 1999, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Rudolf A. Marcus

American-Canadian chemist. Winner of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1992 for his theory on electronic transfers in chemical reactions, he has been internationally recognized for his significant scientific contributions.

Invested on Jun 22, 1999, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Hanif M. Chaudhry

Recognized expert in hydraulic engineering, professor at the University of South Carolina. He has led international projects and is a prolific author in the field, contributing significantly to water resources research and publication.

Invested on Jun 22, 1999, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Jose Saramago

Known for his unique narrative and social critique. Winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1998, his works include Ensayo sobre la ceguera and El evangelio según Jesucristo.

Invested on May 11, 1999, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Adolfo Suárez González

President of the Government of Spain (1976-1981), key in the democratic transition. He led fundamental political reforms, such as the legalization of parties and the drafting of the Spanish Constitution of 1978.

Invested on Oct 30, 1998, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Alicia Alonso

Cuban dancer and choreographer, internationally recognized for her virtuosity and technique in classical ballet. He founded the National Ballet of Cuba and left an indelible legacy in world dance.

Invested on May 6, 1998, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Luis García Berlanga

Spanish filmmaker, recognized for his satirical criticism and black humor in films such as Bienvenido, Mister Marshall and El verdugo. His work had a notable influence on Spanish and European cinema of the twentieth century.

Invested on Oct 2, 1997, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Dario Maravall Casesnoves

Spanish agricultural engineer and member of the Royal Academy of Exact, Physical and Natural Sciences. University professor, author of more than twenty books and recognized for his contributions in physics and mathematics.

Invested on Jun 3, 1997, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

James H. Whitelaw

Scottish engineer and academic, recognized for his contributions in fluid mechanics and heat transfer. He was head of the Thermofluidodynamics Section at Imperial College London and editor of important scientific publications.

Invested on Jun 11, 1996, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Salvatore Corrado Miseri

Professor of Rural Valuation and Accounting at the University of Catania, he has published more than two hundred articles and several books. He was president of the Rotary Club of North Catania in 1988 and vice president of the Centro Studi di Estimo e di Economia Territoriale.

Invested on Nov 16, 1995, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Gianluigi Colalucci

Italian restorer, known for his work in the restoration of important works of art, including the frescoes of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican.

Invested on Nov 16, 1995, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Rafael Alberti

Internationally renowned Spanish poet, belonging to the Generation of '27. Recognized for his poetry committed to social and political reality, his work is fundamental in Spanish literature of the twentieth century.

Invested on Oct 2, 1995, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Vicente Enrique y Tarancón

Spanish cardinal and archbishop of Madrid. He played a crucial role during the Spanish Transition, advocating for reconciliation and democracy, being a key figure in the modernization of the Catholic Church in Spain.

Invested on Oct 4, 1994, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Francisco Lozano Sanchís

Spanish painter and academic, known for his mastery of watercolor and Mediterranean landscaping. His work was internationally recognized and exhibited in numerous countries, standing out for its stylistic rigor and its influence on Valencian painting of the twentieth century.

Invested on May 3, 1994, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Santiago Calatrava Valls

Spanish architect, civil engineer, and sculptor known for his innovative works that fuse architecture, engineering, and art. He is recognized worldwide for designs such as the Príncipe Felipe Science Museum in Valencia and the Oculus in New York.

Invested on Sep 27, 1993, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Manuel Valdivia Ureña

Spanish agronomist and mathematician. Professor at the University of Valencia, he was recognized for his contributions to mathematical analysis and the internationalization of mathematics in Spain, as well as being the author of several theorems and fundamental works.

Invested on Sep 27, 1993, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Emilio Attard

Valencian lawyer, journalist and politician. He played a key role in the Spanish Transition, being a deputy for Valencia and president of the Bar Association. Later, he was a State Councillor and university professor.

Invested on May 14, 1993, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Norman Foster

British architect recognized for his innovative and sustainable designs. Founder of Foster + Partners, he has created iconic buildings such as the Reichstag in Berlin and Apple Park in California, leaving a lasting impact on contemporary architecture.

Invested on Dec 4, 1992, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Francisco Fernández Ordóñez

Spanish politician and economist. He held various ministerial positions in the Spanish government, including Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Finance. He played an important role during the Spanish Transition and in the economic modernization of the country.

Invested on Nov 30, 1992, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Kisshomaru Ueshiba

Japanese Aikido master and the second Doshu of the Aikikai organization. He continued and expanded the legacy of his father, Morihei Ueshiba, founder of Aikido. Kisshomaru was instrumental in the global spread and organization of modern Aikido.

Invested on Nov 6, 1992, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

José Calavera Ruiz

Spanish professor and engineer, known for his outstanding academic and professional career. He is remembered for his contributions in the field of engineering, leaving a significant legacy in education and research in Spain.

Invested on Oct 1, 1992, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Franco Modigliani

Italian-American economist who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics in 1985. He is known for his life cycle theory of savings, which has profoundly influenced economic policy and personal financial planning.

Invested on Mar 31, 1992, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Álvaro Siza Vieira

Portuguese architect of international renown. Winner of the Pritzker Prize in 1992, he is known for his minimalist approach and the harmonious integration of his designs with the environment. His work includes emblematic projects such as the Serralves Museum in Porto.

Invested on Feb 27, 1992, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Santiago Grisolía García

A Spanish biochemist recognized for his research in biochemistry and biomedicine, he chaired the UNESCO Scientific Coordination Committee and founded the Valencian Foundation for Advanced Studies. His work was crucial for the advancement of science in Spain.

Invested on Dec 3, 1991, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Paul Anthony Samuelson

"American economist, awarded the Nobel Prize in Economics in 1970. Known for his work ""Economics: An Introductory Analysis,"" he contributed significantly to the development of modern economic theory and mathematical economics."

Invested on Oct 11, 1991, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Valentina V. Tereshkova

Cosmonaut and Russian politician. In 1963, she became the first woman to fly into space aboard Vostok 6. Her historic mission made her an icon of space exploration and gender equality.

Invested on Jun 11, 1991, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Jacques Yves-Cousteau

French explorer, researcher and documentalist. A pioneer in marine research and ocean conservation, he co-invented autonomous diving equipment and directed numerous documentaries that raised awareness of marine life and the need to protect the oceans.

Invested on Nov 24, 1990, by Rector Justo Nieto Nieto

Federico Mayor Zaragoza

Spanish biochemist, politician and diplomat. He was Director-General of UNESCO (1987-1999), promoting education, science and culture worldwide. He is known for his advocacy of human rights and peace.