Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC) is a research centre whose mission is to develop and promote world-class research in physics and related disciplines, while fostering scientific culture within society.
Based in Donostia/San Sebastián, DIPC was established in 2000 through a strategic partnership between public institutions and private organisations. Today, its Board of Partners includes the Basque Government, the Provincial Council of Gipuzkoa, San Sebastián City Council and Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea (EHU), together with Kutxa Fundazioa, CAF, Telefónica, Fundación EDP, IBM and Kutxabank.
Since 2008, DIPC has been part of the BERC (Basque Excellence Research Center) network, promoted by the Basque Government’s Department of Education. In 2019, it was also recognised as a Severo Ochoa Centre of Excellence by the Spanish State Research Agency, a distinction it continues to hold for 2025–2029.
DIPC’s research activities are currently focused on four main areas: quantum, nano, life, and cosmos. The centre also promotes numerous international initiatives aimed at encouraging knowledge exchange within the global scientific community.
In June 2026, DIPC inaugurated a new research building designed to bolster its experimental research capabilities and foster collaboration across research groups and disciplines. The building houses state-of-the-art laboratories alongside collaborative workspaces and meeting areas, reflecting the centre’s commitment to engaging with society and supporting science outreach activities.
Science communication and public engagement are a fundamental part of DIPC’s mission. Through an extensive programme of cultural and educational initiatives, the centre promotes an open and ongoing dialogue between science and society, while also building bridges between scientific research and other fields of knowledge.
Against this backdrop, the Passion for Knowledge festival is DIPC’s flagship initiative for science communication and the promotion of scientific culture.