LORETTO CONTRERAS PORTIA
Degree in Biology and degree in Bioprocesses, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
PhD in Biological Sciences, Mention in Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
My lines of research are focused on answering ecological questions related to marine algae by applying molecular tools, including biochemical, proteomic, transcriptomic, and metabolic methods. Many of my current projects aim to describe the tolerance mechanisms employed by various species of algae under varied environmental conditions when faced with natural or anthropogenic stressors. The ultimate goal of this research is to understand the distribution pattern of marine algae within an ecological-economic framework and at local-regional scales. Another ongoing line of research under my direction is the use of marine algae compounds and derivatives (eg biochar) with nutraceutical functions and environmental applications. Furthermore, in recent years I have dedicated time to working on the classical-molecular taxonomy of red and green algae, of ecological and economic importance.
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Contact:lorettocontreras@unab.cl
LEBMA director
Researcher
BENJAMIN
RED PINILLA
Bachelor of Marine Sciences
Biologist in Marine Biology, Andrés Bello University
I am interested in the area of ​​applied phycology, and looking for new ways to use algal biomass, in order to bioremediate fresh water or soils contaminated with metals, so that they can be reused. Merging Marine Biology with biotechnology, and thus developing compounds from biomass that is not normally used and could be used to advantage. On the other hand, I also find it interesting to carry out different molecular techniques to differentiate species that are present in the intertidal using methods that consider their phylogeny and that in this way can, in a certain way, discover the history and the way in which it varies. the diversity of species in a specific place.
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Contact: benjamin.pinilla.rojas11@gmail.com
FLORENTINE PINEAPPLE PRICKLY
Bachelor of Marine Sciences
Graduated in Marine Biology, Andres Bello University
PhD candidate in Biotechnology, Andrés Bello University
I am mainly interested in the line of applied research, focused on the production of bioactive molecules from cultivated algal biomass. This line of research enables the production of goods with commercial significance and for different applications (pharmacological, nutritional, cosmetic, etc.), which offer innovative solutions to current and future problems.
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Contact: florentinapina1996@gmail.com
BIOTECHNOLOGY UNAB Phd CANDIDATE
BIOTECHNOLOGY UNAB Phd CANDIDATE
Fernanda Toro Mellado
PhD candidate in Biotechnology, Andrés Bello University
Faculty of Life Sciences
Andres Bello University
I have a great interest in the search and application of biotechnological methodologies that help to solve the main needs that society faces in Chile and the world. I am currently developing my research in the area of ​​aquaculture biotechnology focused on macroalgae, where I seek to optimize and enhance the use of these resources through biorefinery processes in which added value is given to the biomass and thus contribute in a sustainable economy and development of the country.
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Contact: f.toromellado@uandresbello.edu
Paula Bustos Morales
Student in Biology, Andres Bello University
My interest in phycology, starting from when I was little, where marine botany was always present when I visited the coastal coasts, I am impressed by the ecological role that algae have in aquatic ecosystems and their applications in areas such as biotechnology. I am interested in investigating what algae are like and how they can contribute to the development of solutions for climate change mitigation, as well as their care and conservation in our country.
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Contact: p.bustosmorales1@uandresbello.cl
biology student
Marine Biology student
diego barrera tapia
Student in Biology, Andres Bello University
My interest is based on the exploration of Phycology, on the benefits it can provide us, as well as for society and the environment. On our extensive coast, the ecological and economic value that different algae provide us stands out, which is why by knowing their role and characteristics, good decision-making in management and conservation can be made.
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Contact: d.barreratapia@uandresbello.edu
biology student
Hannah Kuhnert Rodríguez
Marine biology student, Andres Bello University
My main interest is using applied phycology as a tool to solve the social, economic and environmental challenges of people, especially coastal communities. Likewise, work horizontally on technology transfer to promote the autonomy of communities and the sustainability of biotechnological projects that increase the economic, cultural and heritage value of Chilean algae.​
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Contact: h.kuhnertrodrguez@uandresbello.edu
marine biology student
Alessandra Tossi
Biochemistry student, Andrés Bello University
I've been interested in phycology since I was a child, a passion that was born because my parents are from the north and I grew up surrounded by the sea. While many people saw algae as a nuisance on the beach, I always sensed they had a special value, even though I didn't yet have the knowledge to understand it. Growing up and discovering that the ocean is the true lung of the planet, I developed a deep obsession with ecology and environmental stewardship, which motivated me to look for ways to contribute my bit to the environment. After a path full of challenges, I found my place at LEBMA, where I can delve deeper into the study of algae, especially their potential for green tides and their applications in mitigating pollution along our country's coasts.
Contact: a.tossibrante@uandresbello.edu
BIOCHEMISTRY student
Daniela Rodríguez García
Biotechnology/Marine Biology Engineering Student, Andrés Bello University
As a biotechnology student, I know I'd like to pursue research. I grew up in Havana, near the coast, and my father is a diver, so the ocean has always been a strong part of my life. When I discovered the possibility of studying in parallel, it was clear I had to combine Biotechnology with Marine Biology. While studying the latter, I realized that what most interested me were algae and their biotechnological potential.
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Contact: d.rodriguezgarcia1@uandresbello.edu
BIOTECHNOLOGY / marine biologY ENGINEERING student
JORGE URRA FUENTES
Undergraduate student of Marine Biology, Andrés Bello University
My interest in algae is based on their essential role in the ecosystem and the enormous opportunity for innovation they represent. I don't see them solely as a marine component, but as a high-value raw material whose research and biotechnological application can directly contribute to sustainability and the mitigation of coastal problems in Chile, in addition to generating crucial contributions to human health and development.
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Contact: j.urrafuentes@uandresbello.edu