María José Márquez, colleague and collaborator on the CARE project, has been appointed as an advisor to the MVAU

María José Márquez Ballesteros, a professor of Urban Planning and Regional Planning at the University of Málaga’s School of Architecture, has been appointed scientific adviser to Spain’s Ministry of Housing and Urban Agenda. The position is coordinated by the National Office for Scientific Advice, which connects government ministries with academic expertise to support evidence-based policymaking.

Márquez holds an architecture degree from the University of Granada and a doctorate from the University of Málaga. Her research focuses on urban energy sustainability, sustainable mobility, the regeneration of vulnerable neighbourhoods, climate resilience, and the effects of tourism on Mediterranean landscapes and cities. She has also published work on photovoltaic plants, energy-efficient housing renovation and urban development on the Costa del Sol. Her appointment recognises a research career that has received several architectural and academic awards.