The researcher, the first Spanish woman selected as a reserve astronaut for the European Space Agency (ESA), will open the event themed «Projecting in Blue». The event, organized by the Zona Franca of Cádiz and the University of Cádiz, will gather experts to address the challenges of the Blue Economy.
García Alonso, a molecular biologist specializing in cancer and precision medicine, leads a research group developing new drugs for lung and pancreatic cancer. Her scientific career, partly at the National Center for Oncological Research (CNIO), has made her a recognized figure in science and innovation.
The choice of García Alonso highlights the organizers' commitment to knowledge and talent as drivers for the future, aiming to inspire new generations. Her opening keynote follows in the footsteps of previous editions, which featured speakers like Céline Cousteau, Odile Rodríguez de la Fuente, and Gunter Pauli.
The forum, running from October 28th to 30th, will combine keynotes, discussions, workshops, and professional meetings. Topics will include oceans, technology, Artificial Intelligence, sustainable coastal tourism, aquaculture, and the decarbonization of maritime transport.
Blue Zone Forum InnovAzul 2026, in its second joint edition by the Zona Franca of Cádiz and the University of Cádiz, will have an international dimension, coinciding with the XXIX Conference of Ibero-American Free Trade Zones. The event will feature a Blue Economy Job Fair and the Blue Woman Forum, focusing on the impact of female leadership in marine sectors.
The goal is to transform Cádiz into a hub connecting science, business, and innovation, fostering knowledge transfer and creating professional and business opportunities within the province's Blue Economy ecosystem. Registration is open on the event's official website.
