Global challenges such as food security, health, energy, and climate change require more than natural resources or infrastructure. The key lies in people: highly trained scientists capable of transforming knowledge into applied innovation. They are the driving force that allows countries to move from an extractive production model to one guided by science and technology. Chile has made steady progress on this path. Thanks to the work of the National Agency for Research and Development (ANID), thousands of professionals have pursued PhD programs both in Chile and abroad. This effort is complemented by instruments such as the Grant for Insertion in the Productive Sector, which enables PhDs to join companies with projects of real impact. These initiatives have created a critical mass of advanced human capital that today represents a unique opportunity to diversify the economy and increase competitiveness.
At PhageLab, we have experienced this first-hand. With ANID’s support, we have incorporated PhDs who lead scientific projects with direct impact on the poultry and livestock industries. This collaboration not only strengthens our capacity for innovation but also enables us to contribute to global challenges related to food security.
Within our team, Coral Pardo, Sr. Scientist, leads research focused on understanding bacterial challenges in the field and developing new methods for pathogen detection and control in production systems. Meanwhile, Francisco García, Sr. Scientist, drives innovative solutions to improve the detection and control of Salmonella spp. in the field.
“As a scientist, I have always dreamed of generating knowledge that has a real impact, and I believe that is precisely one of the great contributions of advanced human capital: the ability to address complex challenges with critical thinking and evidence-based decisions,” highlights Coral.
“Advanced human capital brings great value to industry. Doctoral training prepares you to solve complex problems, to be critical and rigorous. This allows you to design better trials, identify opportunities, and enrich projects with ideas that may not be immediately visible,” says Francisco.
Coral Pardo during her participation in the event ‘Science in Industry: The contribution of Advanced Human Capital to the productive sector’ organized by ANID.
Connecting academia, science, and entrepreneurship around shared goals is key. When there is alignment and commitment, the results generate real impact. In Latin America, we are already seeing concrete examples of this model working, opening new opportunities for innovation and development with global reach.
