Hello! My name is Leyla Sanhueza Kaba. I am a Food Engineer and hold a Master’s degree in Food Science from the University of Chile. I am currently pursuing a PhD in Industrial Technologies at Rey Juan Carlos University (URJC), supported by a doctoral fellowship.

Throughout my career, I have worked in teaching and research, as well as in private companies, collaborating on the development of innovative food products.

My research focuses on the valorization of by-products from the food industry, leveraging their bioactive properties to promote healthy and sustainable eating.

During my master’s thesis, I completed a research stay at the University of Oviedo, thanks to a scholarship from the University of Chile. There, I worked with bioactive compounds from pomegranate peel—an experience that was key in my decision to pursue a PhD. Currently, my research is centered on the encapsulation of olive pomace extract, taking advantage of its bioactive compounds as functional ingredients.

Outside of academia, I’m passionate about dance, enjoy writing, sewing and crafting, and love spending time with my dogs, who are an essential part of my life.