Natalie is a Molecular Biotechnology Engineer with a Master’s degree in Biological Sciences from Universidad de Chile, driven by a strong commitment to innovation, education, and science communication and outreach.

Her research background includes the development of regenerative medicine therapies for psoriasis vulgaris and active participation in international competitions such as iGEM and Invent for the Planet, experiences that strengthened her teamwork and problem-solving skills. After resuming her involvement with iGEM seven years later, she was selected as an iGEM Ambassador for Latin America for 2025. In this role, she promotes the advancement of synthetic biology across the region and continues to support these efforts throughout the year.

Beyond research, she has approximately five years of experience supporting STEM education and science communication. She has contributed as a peer advisor in Universidad de Chile’s thesis writing program and volunteered in initiatives such as Ciencia F5 (winner of the university’s Premio Azul student creativity award) and Global Shapers. These experiences have enabled her to foster scientific literacy and social impact through content creation, talks, and workshops.

Currently, she coordinates the School of Engineering Undergraduate Research Program (IPre) at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, where she has overseen 498 student research projects this year. Her role includes course management, delivering introductory lectures, and facilitating opportunities for students to engage in both basic and applied research, sometimes involving fieldwork such as visits to the university’s Network of Regional Centers and Stations (RCER UC). Through these experiences, she helps students connect classroom learning with real-world environments under the mentorship of faculty supervisors.

She also organizes international internships for students from the School of Engineering and promotes science communication through the web portal ING Divulga, where she publishes outreach articles and encourages students to share their research with broader audiences. Some of these articles have been featured in online media and news outlets. Additionally, she leads outreach initiatives such as science communication contests during the School’s Research and Innovation Week, reinforcing her commitment to making science more accessible and inspiring future researchers and academic leaders.