Rodríguez-Pardo, a postdoctoral researcher affiliated with both the CMCC and the Polytechnic University of Milan, has been awarded the SCIE–BBVA Foundation Award for Young Computer Science Researchers, one of Spain’s most prestigious honors in computer science.

Carlos Rodríguez-Pardo received the Young Researchers in Computer Science Award 2024, for his contributions to intelligent image processing, which have significantly improved the realistic representation of materials, leading to impactful scientific publications, patents, and industrial products.

“I use artificial intelligence to combat climate change by researching how the climate will evolve as greenhouse gas emissions change, thus helping to develop better public policies for the economy, society, and the environment,” he explained. His work focuses on improving the realism and efficiency of virtually generated images while reducing the manual intervention needed to create them.

Rodríguez-Pardo’s dedication to applying artificial intelligence in addressing climate challenges was highlighted during his acceptance speech. “Today, computer science, and especially artificial intelligence, run the risk of being seen as a threat,” said Rodríguez-Pardo. “Concerns about its contribution to inequalities, misinformation, global warming, or its impact on the labor market are more present than ever. As researchers, it’s our responsibility to ensure our field serves as a force for social progress, aware of its risks but focused on its enormous potential to create a fairer, more democratic, and sustainable world.”

The SCIE–BBVA Foundation Awards are dedicated to fostering pioneering research in computer science and its applications to society. Each year, they honor outstanding scientists who contribute innovative, high-impact research. Rodríguez-Pardo joins other recipients, underscoring CMCC’s mission to leverage cutting-edge scientific research in support of climate resilience and sustainable development worldwide.

For more information about the prize, please visit the BBVA Foundation website.