My research is driven by my interest in improving the quality of life of animals. My research has been focused on the improvement of pig welfare in intensive commercial farming, including social behaviour, animal welfare assessment at slaughterhouses, and improving the understanding of gastric ulcers. I have also participated in research projects involving wild animal conservation. I'm currently parcipating in two projects: SMp-FOOD-2022-PigStun (economic analysis) and PAHW SOA9 projects.
My experience in teaching is related to animal welfare. In the past, I have prepared and delivered lectures on general concepts of animal welfare, ethics and legislation, and pig and poultry welfare; prepared examination material and organized practical lectures and activities. I am interest in continuing to develop my teaching skills and get involved in other core subjects in veterinary science such as veterinary physiology and anatomy, and other transversal subjects that may involve developing research skills.
I have collaborated with researchers affiliated to different universities (Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Universidad Austral de Chile, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, University of Edinburgh, Scotland's Rural College) and stakeholders in the pig industry (COMAFRI slaughterhouse, Agricolas AASAS, ARLA). I'm currently collaborating with SMp-FOOD-2022-PigStun and PAHW SOA9 projects partners from different institutions: IRTA, Teknologisk, MRI, WUR, Marel, FLI, UNIPD, SLU, IZSLER, UMIL, NVI, AU, IZS-Teramo, CREA, UCPH, Teagasc, UCD.
I do consultancy work as part of my membership with the Chilean College for Veterinarians, COLMEVET, and I'm currently co-funding a Chilean association for Animal Welfare. The work includes, among others, advise on new legislations, writing communications to the general public and relevant stakeholders on animal welfare matters.
I am a member of the working group of the Diversitye, Equity and Inclusion committee of the Animal and Veterinary Sciences Departement. We are a diverse group of people that includes employees at different academic levels and areas of work within the university. We draft a work plan for the year that addresses the needs of the department and, organise and moderate the events.