Biochemist Dr. Maria Elsa Pando San Martin, who serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Nutrition at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, focuses her research on the circular economy, bioactive compounds, and innovative nutrient delivery systems. Throughout her career, she has taken on significant roles as both a researcher and project leader in multidisciplinary projects and has also coordinated the REVALIF international research network supported by the OEI and the European Union.

Research Focus

Recognized for her scientific contributions, Dr. San Martin won the OPENICS 2024 Health and Innovation Award with her ODF system developed for Vitamin B12. In her previous work, she received a national patent for structuring omega-3 derivatives under supercritical CO₂ conditions and has made significant contributions to next-generation antioxidant lipid technologies. Her research areas include EPA/DHA-rich lipids, pomegranate peel polyphenols, and neurodegeneration. The accomplished scientist has published more than 10 scientific articles in international peer-reviewed journals over the past five years.