Ms. Valeria Paz Silva

Valeria Paz Silva is a Bolivian Biotechnology Engineer whose academic and professional work centers on molecular biology, natural product research, and sustainable biotechnology. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology Engineering from Universidad Católica Boliviana “San Pablo” in Santa Cruz, where she developed a strong foundation in laboratory science, experimental design, and applied biochemical research. Her undergraduate thesis focused on the chemical hydrolysis of sodium hyaluronate to reduce molecular weight using quail eggshell waste, reflecting her interest in combining biotechnology with circular economy approaches and value-added use of biological residues.

Throughout her training, Valeria built extensive research experience through internships and collaborative scientific projects. She worked on the investigation of tropical fruits, analyzing their bioactive compounds, organoleptic properties, and nutritional characteristics, and later participated in wastewater analysis using PCR for dengue detection. She also completed internships in research and development, method validation, and molecular biology in both academic and hospital laboratory settings. Her research later expanded into innovative studies on the induction of psilocybin biosynthesis through abiotic stress, demonstrating her interest in advanced metabolic and biochemical processes.

Since 2026, Valeria has served as Laboratory Supervisor in the Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences at Universidad Católica Boliviana, where she oversees laboratory operations, equipment management, and academic support activities. She also works as Research Project Coordinator on a multidisciplinary study evaluating Achyrocline satureioides (Wira Wira) extracts for respiratory health, with emphasis on preserving bioactive compounds and integrating traditional formulation methods. These roles have strengthened her leadership in laboratory management, project coordination, and scientific mentoring.

Valeria has contributed to several scientific publications as both author and co-author in areas related to biodiversity, cosmetic biotechnology, and biomaterial processing. Her work has been presented at national and international scientific conferences in Bolivia and abroad, where she has received recognition for outstanding oral and poster presentations. Her academic achievements include honors for research excellence and continued involvement in science communication and STEM mentoring initiatives that promote scientific engagement among young women.

In addition to her technical expertise, Valeria is skilled in data analysis, scientific software, and laboratory instrumentation, with experience using tools such as MATLAB, GraphPad Prism, and SigmaPlot. Her professional profile combines scientific rigor, interdisciplinary research, and a commitment to applying biotechnology to health, sustainability, and innovation.