Universidad del Desarrollo

Nataly Silva is a Research Professor at the Faculty of Design at Universidad del Desarrollo (UDD), where she leads the research line focused on new materials. Her interdisciplinary work connects materials science, nanotechnology, design, and sustainability through experimental research and innovation processes centered on the valorization of industrial and agro-industrial waste within a circular economy framework. Her research explores the development of functional materials based on cellulose, biopolymers, and metallic nanoparticles for applications including environmental remediation, sensors, active packaging, antimicrobial surfaces, and advanced composites. Silva integrates nanomaterial synthesis and modification with physicochemical characterization, functional evaluation, and prototype validation, bridging applied science and design practice. She has led more than ten research and development projects and authored over thirty articles in indexed journals. In addition to her research, she coordinates the Integrated Biodesign Studio, supervises thesis projects, and teaches in the Master’s Program in Design and Sustainable Innovation (MADIS) at UDD.

Andrea Wechsler, PhD in Built Environment, is a Research Professor at the Faculty of Design at Universidad del Desarrollo (UDD) and a faculty member in the Master’s Program in Design and Sustainable Innovation (MADIS). Her work focuses on applied research and technology transfer related to sustainable materials and products, integrating design, materials science, and the built environment. Her research explores the development of bio-based and composite materials derived from agricultural, forestry, and post-consumer waste through interdisciplinary approaches that combine design, engineering, and circular economy strategies. She currently coordinates the BioRed CYTED network and leads national and international research and development projects centered on material innovation. Wechsler holds one patent, with additional patents currently under review, and her work has been published in indexed journals and recognized through international awards. Since 2005, she has taught in Chile, Australia, and China, supervising more than 38 undergraduate and graduate theses focused on design and sustainability.