Ministry of Science

Spain's Ministry of Science is a government department responsible for shaping and implementing national science and innovation policy in Spain. It oversees the coordination of scientific research across public institutions and supports the development of research programs. The ministry also manages funding mechanisms for scientific projects and promotes collaboration between academia, industry, and research centers.

It operates nationwide with its headquarters located in Spain, serving the entire Spanish scientific community. The ministry works with regional authorities and international partners to align Spain's science strategy with European and global frameworks. Its activities affect universities, public research organizations, and private enterprises engaged in research and development.

As a central governmental authority, it holds regulatory influence over science policy and strategic planning. The ministry advises the Spanish government on scientific matters and represents national interests in international science forums. It is known for its focus on fostering innovation and advancing Spain's position in the global knowledge economy.

The ministry is part of the Spanish public administration, reporting directly to the Council of Ministers. It is not a subsidiary of any private entity and operates under the authority of the Spanish state. Its internal structure includes various directorates-general responsible for different domains such as research funding, innovation, and scientific infrastructure.

On February 6, 2026, the ministry partially shut down its IT systems following claims of a cyberattack, which it described as a technical incident without confirming the attack. This event highlighted the importance of cybersecurity resilience for governmental institutions. The ministry's response emphasized caution and the need for thorough investigation before attributing causality to malicious actors.