The manager of the CNIO resigns and opens a new crisis at Spain's largest cancer center
The resignation of José Manuel Bernabé, manager of the CNIO, has triggered a crisis in Spain's largest cancer research center following a harassment allegation.
José Manuel Bernabé, the manager of the Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Oncológicas (CNIO), has resigned amidst allegations of harassment, leading to a further crisis for the institute, which has been struggling for nearly two years. The institution's board has accepted his resignation, which follows a report of misconduct by Laura Muñoz, who was dismissed as general secretary just before the allegations arose.
The CNIO has been embroiled in serious controversies, including accusations of corruption that could have cost the center an estimated 20 million euros. This ongoing investigation, led by the Fiscalía Anticorrupción, highlights significant governance challenges within the center, particularly as it confronts both an internal crisis and external scrutiny. Bernabé's resignation adds another layer of complexity to an already tumultuous environment for research and funding, crucial for ongoing cancer research initiatives.
With the exit of Bernabé, the CNIO now faces uncertainty in its leadership and operational strategies, which may further disrupt its research activities and public trust. As the institution attempts to stabilize, potential implications for funding, staff morale, and ongoing research initiatives linger, necessitating a thorough response both administratively and politically to restore confidence in Spain's largest cancer research facility.