Andrea P. Clavijo

Red Investigación

I am a biologist and microbiologist with expertise in molecular biology, microbial ecology, and molecular microbiology. I have been involved in several research projects for over twenty-four years, spanning seven research groups in Colombia, the United States and Germany. This has provided me not only experience as a scientist but a rich cultural and professional perspective. Throughout my career, I've showcased proficiency in leading interdisciplinary scientific teams, ensuring project funding, and optimizing resource planning to advance research projects and microbial diagnostic initiatives.

In addition to my research contributions, I have actively engaged in activities related to my expertise, including developing guidelines and strategies to promote biotechnology in Colombia, consultation on establishing molecular biology laboratories, lecturer in a Master's degree program, and conducting molecular diagnostics of human pathogens, most recently COVID-19.

Throughout my career, I have studied human pathogens like Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Escherichia coli to deepen our understanding of their pathogenic mechanisms and to develop new diagnostic methods. During my doctoral studies, I investigated bacterial communities in the human intestine, which enhanced our understanding of microbiota-host interactions. Drawing upon my accumulated knowledge and experiences, I have also applied my expertise in environmental microbiology settings, such as studying bacterial genes in greenhouse gas emissions and addressing challenges related to food security and sustainable agriculture by exploring the utilization of microorganisms as biocontrol agents.

Most recently, I joined Hereon Institute from Helmholtz-Zentrum in Germany to learn about polymer science and how to apply my microbiology background to find solutions for environmental sustainability within a bioeconomy and circular economy frame.