Julio Abalde

Julio Abalde
Born	Spain
Occupation	Professor of microbiology
Years active	1985–present
Known for	Rector of Universidade da Coruña

Julio Abalde is a professor from Spain who specializes in the field of microbiology. On 3 December 2015, he was appointed as the rector of Universidade da Coruña.

Academic career

Abalde obtained his doctorate from Universidade de Santiago de Compostela in 1986, having started his teaching profession a year earlier at the university college located in A Coruña. In 1988, he was promoted to associate professor of microbiology at the same institution. When the college became an independent entity known as Universidade da Coruña in 1991, he continued serving as associate professor there. He held this position until advancing to full professor status in 2010. His research expertise lies in the biotechnology of microalgae, with particular emphasis on their large-scale cultivation, uses in aquaculture, and their physiological reactions to environmental contaminants including heavy metals and pesticides. Abalde has contributed significant scholarly publications within this area. Before assuming the role of rector at Universidade da Coruña in 2017, he occupied various administrative positions at both universities and was involved with the Agency for the Quality of the University System of Galicia (ACSUG).

Political career

In March 2017, speculation arose regarding his potential leadership of the Socialists' Party of Galicia, which he publicly refuted, affirming that his professional focus remained dedicated to Universidade da Coruña.

Awards and distinctions

During the centennial celebrations of Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University in 2018, Abalde was honored with an honorary doctorate degree.