Veterinary Doctor and Doctor of Agroforestry and Veterinary Sciences from the University of Chile.

Has experience in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, as well as a scientific researcher in the areas of bacterial resistance and food safety. She held the position of Quality Manager at FARMAVET Laboratory for 8 years, and currently holds the position of Deputy Director and Technical Responsible of the unit.

Veterinary Doctor and Doctor of Agroforestry and Veterinary Sciences from the University of Chile.

Carolina Araya Pulgar is a dynamic and accomplished lab manager at the forefront of the Aquaculture Genomics Lab. With a foundational education in veterinary science, Carolina embarked on a journey that would eventually position her as a key figure in the field. Carolina’s initial studies earned her a degree in Veterinary Science, where she developed a strong passion for the intersection of genetics and aquatic life. This fervor led her to assume the role of lab manager in the Aquaculture Genomics Lab, where her expertise and dedication shine.

Carolina’s current pursuit involves furthering her own education as a Master’s degree student. Her research focuses on harnessing genomic insights to drive advancements in aquaculture practices, aiming to address pressing challenges in the industry. As a lab manager and a graduate student, Carolina Araya Pulgar embodies a commitment to the integration of veterinary expertise, genomics, and technology to redefine the future of aquaculture. Her dedication promises to bring about innovative breakthroughs in aquatic biology and sustainable resource management.

Lab Manager

Carolina is a veterinarian with over ten years of experience in research in the field of aquaculture. Throughout her career, she has focused on studying pathogens affecting aquaculture production and implementing selective breeding and genomic techniques to improve the quality and resilience of these species. Currently, she is a candidate for a Master’s degree in Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine at the University of Chile, where she is researching the effects of chronic thermal stress on rainbow trout. She excels in coordinating and executing bioassays and laboratory tests, as well as in the detailed analysis of samples for research projects in areas such as aquaculture genomics. With a solid understanding of pathology, cell culture, and molecular biology, she significantly contributes to research and development. In addition to her technical skills, Carolina oversees administrative and logistical activities within the laboratory, ensuring project alignment and success.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

Agustin Piña, currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Veterinary Science, is a scientist dedicated to bridging genomic analysis and practical applications in Animal Breeding. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Science, where he developed a fascination with genetics and molecular biology. This passion led him to further specialize in genetics and genomics during his Master’s program. Throughout his academic career, Agustin has shown a profound commitment to translating genomic insights into real-world benefits, making significant contributions to the field of animal breeding. His innovative work in integrating genomic data into practical breeding programs is reshaping the industry and solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the field.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

Agustin Piña, currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Veterinary Science, is a scientist dedicated to bridging genomic analysis and practical applications in Animal Breeding. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Science, where he developed a fascination with genetics and molecular biology. This passion led him to further specialize in genetics and genomics during his Master’s program. Throughout his academic career, Agustin has shown a profound commitment to translating genomic insights into real-world benefits, making significant contributions to the field of animal breeding. His innovative work in integrating genomic data into practical breeding programs is reshaping the industry and solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in the field.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

Bruno Ruiz is an ambitious Ph.D. student with a veterinary background, who possesses a strong interest in Genomic and Bioinformatic approaches as applied to aquaculture. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Science, during which he cultivated a deep fascination for genetics and genomics, particularly in the context of aquatic life. This profound interest inspired Bruno to embark on a graduate-level path, where he currently excels as a Ph.D. candidate. Bruno’s research focuses on harnessing the potential of genomics and bioinformatics to drive advancements in sustainable aquaculture practices. His work is poised to address critical challenges in the field and contribute significantly to the evolution of aquatic resource management. Bruno Ruiz, with his veterinary foundation, is on a mission to revolutionize aquaculture through the lens of science and technology, promising groundbreaking discoveries and transformative impacts on aquatic biology.

Research Assistant and Junior Geneticist

Bruno is a doctoral student with a background in veterinary science, who has a keen interest in Genomic and Bioinformatics approaches applied to aquaculture. Bruno’s research focuses on leveraging the potential of genomics and bioinformatics to drive advancements in the development of genomic tools to enhance aquaculture practices and make them more sustainable.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

Charles Sanchez, hailing from Colombia, is a passionate individual with a strong academic foundation in animal science. With a Master’s degree in Zootechnics from the Universidade Federal de Lavras, Charles honed his expertise in the field. Currently, he’s pursuing a Ph.D. with a keen interest in Quantitative Genetics and Genomics as applied to aquaculture breeding programs. Charles’s academic journey reflects his commitment to advancing the science of animal breeding, particularly in the context of aquaculture, where he aspires to contribute innovative solutions through the fusion of genetics and genomics. His research endeavors promise to make a valuable impact on the future of aquaculture breeding practices.

Graduate Research Assistance

Charles Sanchez, hailing from Colombia, is a passionate individual with a strong academic foundation in animal science. With a Master’s degree in Zootechnics from the Universidade Federal de Lavras, Charles honed his expertise in the field. Currently, he’s pursuing a Ph.D. with a keen interest in Quantitative Genetics and Genomics as applied to aquaculture breeding programs. Charles’s academic journey reflects his commitment to advancing the science of animal breeding, particularly in the context of aquaculture, where he aspires to contribute innovative solutions through the fusion of genetics and genomics. His research endeavors promise to make a valuable impact on the future of aquaculture breeding practices.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

Constanza has devoted her academic and professional training to the epidemiological study of zoonotic pathogens present in terrestrial productive animals from a One Health perspective. She has shifted focus towards aquatic productive animals from a genetic and genomic standpoint to enhance the productivity and sustainability indices of the industry.  She has been involved in the execution and formulation of research projects from a generalist approach to address issues related to animal, environmental, and human health.

Graduate Research Assistance

Constanza Urzúa, a veterinarian by training and a proficient project manager, is currently in charge of executing and formulating both internal and competitive projects. Her academic journey commenced with a solid foundation in veterinary science, and her career has since evolved into a dynamic role where she orchestrates and oversees a diverse array of projects. Constanza’s professional interests span multiple disciplines, including Animal Science, Aquaculture, Genetics, Molecular Biology, and the critical concept of One Health. Her ability to navigate the intersections of these fields reflects a holistic approach to addressing complex issues at the crossroads of human, animal, and environmental health. Constanza Urzúa stands as a versatile and forward-thinking professional, dedicated to advancing knowledge and solutions in these interconnected realms.

Postdoctoral Researcher

David is a marine biologist with a PhD in aquaculture, specialising in the convergence of transcriptomics, aquaculture, and virology. His primary focus is on the Infectious Pancreatic Necrosis (IPN) virus, a global concern affecting salmonids. With expertise in molecular biology techniques, David has actively participated in various scientific projects and publications related to the detection and understanding of the molecular epidemiology of this viral pathogen. As a researcher at the Aquaculture Genomics Laboratory, he has played a key role in the development and standardisation of qPCR assays for the molecular analysis of salmonid species samples. Furthermore, David has contributed to formulating and executing genomic analysis projects, particularly those associated with pathogens impacting salmonid species.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

David Tapia, with a background in marine biology and a Ph.D. in aquaculture, stands as a dedicated scientist with a profound commitment to the aquatic realm. His academic journey began with a strong foundation in marine biology, which he later expanded upon through his doctoral studies in aquaculture. David’s research spans the intersections of Transcriptomics, aquaculture, and virology, with a specialized focus on the IPN virus. His expertise in this critical area has been instrumental in understanding and combatting the virus’s impact on aquatic populations. David’s work not only contributes to the advancement of aquaculture practices but also plays a crucial role in preserving the health and sustainability of aquatic ecosystems.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

Jousepth Gallardo, equipped with a foundation in marine biology and a Ph.D. in aquaculture, possesses a remarkable blend of expertise in both academic and practical realms. His academic journey commenced with a strong grounding in marine biology, which laid the groundwork for his doctoral studies in aquaculture. Beyond his academic pursuits, Jousepth brings a wealth of experience in project formulation to the table. His ability to conceptualize and develop projects reflects his dedication to advancing the field of aquaculture. Jousepth Gallardo’s unique combination of knowledge and project management skills positions him as a valuable contributor to the growth and innovation of the aquaculture industry, where he continues to make a meaningful impact.

Postdoctoral Researcher and Key Account Manager in Genomic Services 

Jousepth has focused his professional training on specialising and expanding his knowledge and skills in genomics, bioinformatics, and quantitative genetics. As a Project Manager, he has been responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing innovation and development projects for the optimisation of genetic improvement processes, ensuring timelines and the development of cost-effective activities.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

Lucas Venegas, a veterinary professional with a broad academic horizon, is currently pursuing his Ph.D. at the University of Chile and Laval University in Canada. Lucas’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in veterinary science, and he has since expanded his expertise into the dynamic field of Genomic prediction using microbiome information. His unique focus on the microbiome as a predictive tool showcases his dedication to exploring cutting-edge avenues within genomics. Lucas Venegas’ cross-continental academic pursuit positions him as a rising star in the realm of genomic research, poised to unravel new frontiers in the intersection of veterinary science and microbiome-based genomics.

Graduate Research Assistance

Lucas is distinguished by his enthusiasm and dedication in outreach activities, and he has applied his academic and professional experience to genomic prediction for complex traits, including information from both genotypes and the microbiome in aquaculture and fisheries, as well as the microbial characterisation of aquatic environments. His training focuses on molecular biology, microbiology, quantitative genetics, and genomics applied to aquaculture. He is currently part of the  joint doctoral program between the University of Chile and Université Laval from 2022 to 2025.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

Maria Simak, armed with a foundation in mathematics and a Ph.D. in bioinformatics, is a dynamic professional with a multifaceted interest in the genomics landscape. Her academic journey began with a solid grounding in mathematics, which she ingeniously applied to her doctoral studies in bioinformatics. Maria’s diverse research interests span Genome assembly, pangenome analysis, transcriptome analysis, and even webapp development, all tailored to the intricate world of aquaculture. Her multidisciplinary approach and technical prowess have positioned her as a vital contributor to the evolution of genomic research in aquaculture, making her an invaluable asset in both research and software development for this crucial field.

Coordinator of the Aquaculture Pangenome Consortium 

Maria has focused her academic training on mathematics  and  bioinformatics, currently serving as the director of the Aquaculture Pangenome Consortium project, making significant contributions to the field of genetics and genomics in aquaculture species. Her work encompasses genome assembly, pangenome analysis, transcriptome analysis, and even the development of web applications, all adapted to the complex world of aquaculture. Her multidisciplinary approach and technical proficiency have positioned her as a significant contributor to the evolution of genomic research.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

Mario Caruffo, a distinguished professional with a background in veterinary science and a Ph.D. to his name, serves as the dedicated coordinator of CRIA (Center for Research in Aquaculture). Mario’s journey in academia and aquaculture is marked by a profound commitment to advancing the industry through a multifaceted approach. His interests span Aquaculture Biotechnology, Fish Immunology, Vaccine Development, Nutrition, and the intricate dynamics of Host-Pathogen Interaction. Mario’s visionary leadership and comprehensive expertise make him a driving force in the aquaculture field, where he tirelessly works to develop innovative solutions, enhance fish health, and elevate the sustainability and productivity of this critical industry.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

Pablo Cáceres, a skilled veterinarian with a master’s degree in veterinary sciences and a current Ph.D. candidate, is a dedicated researcher with a passion for the intricate world of aquaculture. Pablo’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in veterinary science, which he expertly extended into his master’s studies. His current doctoral pursuit is characterized by a deep interest in Quantitative Genetics, Genomics, and Bioinformatics, all thoughtfully applied to the realm of aquaculture. Notably, Pablo’s extensive research portfolio includes a wide-ranging exploration of sea lice, a pervasive challenge in aquaculture. His work represents a vital contribution to the field, offering valuable insights and innovative solutions to address critical issues in aquaculture management and sustainability.

Graduate Research Assistance

Pablo has dedicated his studies and professional development to elucidating the resistance to sea lice (Caligusrogercresseyi) with a genomic and functional approach, identifying allele-specific expression (ASE) and performing eQTL mapping. In addition, he has collaborated in data analysis and studies of GWAS and genomic prediction for growth traits and diseases, developing genomic tools, GWAS, and linkage maps for Tambaqui and searching for sturgeon sex markers. Currently, he is collaborating on the Aquaculture Pangenome Consortium project for the development of pan-genomes for various aquaculture species. Pablo is known for his bioinformatics skills and the use of the Python programming language (advanced level) and the R statistical tool.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

Rocío Estrages, armed with a background in Environmental Biology and currently a master’s degree candidate in Genetics, is an aspiring scientist with a profound interest in Genomics and Bioinformatics. Her academic journey began with a strong foundation in environmental biology, which she has skillfully combined with her genetic studies. Rocío’s current research focus delves into the intricate world of Genomics and Bioinformatics, with a specific emphasis on runs of homozygosity and inbreeding within the rainbow trout population. Her work not only represents a critical contribution to our understanding of genetic diversity in this species but also underscores her dedication to environmental conservation through scientific research. Rocío Estrages is a rising star in the field, poised to make significant strides in the realms of genetics and aquatic biology.

Graduate Research Assistance

Rocío, armed with a background in Environmental Biology and currently a master’s degree candidate in Genetics, is an aspiring scientist with a profound interest in Genomics and Bioinformatics. Her academic journey began with a strong foundation in environmental biology, which she has skillfully combined with her genetic studies. Rocío’s current research focus delves into the intricate world of Genomics and Bioinformatics, with a specific emphasis on runs of homozygosity and inbreeding within the rainbow trout population. Her work not only represents a critical contribution to our understanding of genetic diversity in this species but also underscores her dedication to environmental conservation through scientific research. RocíoEstrages is a rising star in the field, poised to make significant strides in the realms of genetics and aquatic biology.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

Rodrigo Marin, a veterinary professional with a master’s degree, is presently a dedicated Ph.D. student. Rodrigo’s academic journey began with a solid foundation in veterinary science, and he has since honed his expertise in the field through his master’s studies. His current academic pursuit is characterized by a profound interest in breeding management, where he combines quantitative genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics to drive advancements in aquaculture. Rodrigo’s research holds the potential to revolutionize breeding practices in aquaculture, enhancing sustainability and productivity. His multifaceted approach reflects a commitment to the integration of cutting-edge science into practical applications for the betterment of the aquaculture industry. Rodrigo Marin is on a promising path towards becoming a transformative figure in the field of aquatic biology and genetics.

Doctor Key Account Manager in Genomic Services 

Rodrigo has dedicated his academic and professional training to quantitative genetics, generating extensive experience in breeding programs for aquaculture species using quantitative genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics to drive genetic advances in breeding populations, enhancing the sustainability and productivity of systems. His interest in the field is reflected in the continuity of his studies, covering various topics related to hydrobiological species of economic importance.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

Sebastián Zavala, with a background in veterinary science and currently a master’s degree candidate, is a skilled professional who wears the hat of a biostatistical instructor. Sebastián’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in veterinary science, and his passion for the subject has driven him to pursue further studies. As a biostatistical instructor, he plays a crucial role in imparting knowledge and expertise in statistical methods to his students, empowering them to make informed decisions in research and data analysis. Sebastián’s dedication to education and statistical acumen makes him an invaluable resource in the academic and research community, where he contributes to the development of sound statistical practices and methodologies.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

Sebastián Zavala, with a background in veterinary science and currently a master’s degree candidate, is a skilled professional who wears the hat of a biostatistical instructor. Sebastián’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in veterinary science, and his passion for the subject has driven him to pursue further studies. As a biostatistical instructor, he plays a crucial role in imparting knowledge and expertise in statistical methods to his students, empowering them to make informed decisions in research and data analysis. Sebastián’s dedication to education and statistical acumen makes him an invaluable resource in the academic and research community, where he contributes to the development of sound statistical practices and methodologies.

Veterinarian and Animal Science Researcher with a strong focus on Genetics and Genomics. 

Tamara Montenegro, a veterinary professional with a deep-rooted passion for aquatic science, is currently a master’s degree candidate. Her academic journey began with a solid foundation in veterinary science, which she has skillfully combined with her pursuit of further studies. Tamara’s primary focus and interest areas revolve around the fascinating world of Quantitative Genetics, Genomics, and Bioinformatics, all thoughtfully applied to the field of aquaculture. Her dedication to these disciplines underscores her commitment to advancing the sustainability and productivity of aquaculture practices. Tamara Montenegro is poised to make a significant impact in the intersection of veterinary science and aquaculture genetics, contributing innovative solutions to the industry’s pressing challenges.

Research Assistant and Junior Geneticist

Tamara has focused her academic career around Quantitative Genetics, Genomics, and Bioinformatics, all applied to the field of aquaculture. Her dedication to these disciplines underscores her commitment to advancing sustainable and productive practices in aquaculture. Her studies have included the prediction of genetic parameters, GWAS (Genome-Wide Association Studies), and the search for candidate genes. Tamara is known for her commitment and enthusiasm when tackling new challenges.

Research Technician

Patricia has dedicated her academic and professional development to  acquiring specific knowledge in the field of marine biology, focusing her learning on the behaviour of the king penguin in Tierra del Fuego. Patricia is known for her proactivity and problem-solving ability, excelling in planning, managing, and handling the challenges presented to her.

Postdoctoral Researcher

Vito is a Bachelor of Oceanography from the Federal University of Rio Grande – FURG (2004-2011). He holds a postgraduate degree in Aquaculture from São Paulo State University Júlio de MesquitaFilho – UNESP (2014-2020), with an emphasis on Fish Genetics, Genomic Studies related to the development of tools for Fish Genetic Improvement, Bioinformatics, and Phenomics Applied to Aquaculture. He has experience as a Scientific Observer aboard the Brazilian fishing fleet. Currently, he is a postdoctoral fellow at the Fish Genetics Laboratory of São Paulo State University Júlio de MesquitaFilho – UNESP, and associated with the Laboratory of Genetics in Aquaculture and Conservation of UNESP.