José Carlos Gómez Villamandos, a prominent figure in Spanish public universities and former Minister of University, Research and Innovation for the Junta de Andalucía, died this Tuesday, June 2nd, in Córdoba at the age of 63. His death, confirmed by sources from the Andalusian Government, follows a period of illness.

Born in Córdoba in 1963, Gómez Villamandos built an extensive academic career. After graduating and obtaining his doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Córdoba, where he became a professor, he began teaching at the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria.

In 2014, he was elected rector of the University of Córdoba, a position he held for eight years. His national profile grew when he was appointed president of the Conference of Rectors of Spanish Universities (CRUE) in 2019, becoming a key spokesperson for higher education in Spain.

In July 2022, he took on the role of Minister of University, Research and Innovation for the Junta de Andalucía. From this position, he promoted significant reforms in the Andalusian university system, including the new University Law for Andalucía and the public university funding framework.

Beyond his institutional work, Gómez Villamandos was also a prolific researcher and a corresponding academic of Royal Veterinary Academies. His career consistently combined teaching, research, and public management, with the university as the central focus of his professional life.

His passing has prompted widespread condolences. The acting president of the Junta de Andalucía, Juanma Moreno, expressed his sorrow on social media, highlighting his dedication to the University. The Minister of Presidency, Antonio Sanz, and the mayor of Seville, José Luis Sanz, have also offered their condolences, emphasizing his personal qualities and commitment to Andalucía.