Sofia Valenzuela
From BINAS
Dr. Sofia A. Valenzuela
Expertise:
- Forest Biotechnology
- Biosafety
Current Affiliation:
- Faculty of Forest Science and Biotechnology Center, Universidad de Concepcion, Concepcion, Chile
Research Area:
Dr. Sofia A. Valenzuela’s main research interest is forest biotechnology and genetics. Her group has several research projects with the two main forest companies in Chile. The main goal is to understand wood chemistry in Eucalyptus globulus, identifying different genotypes that have significant differences in their wood composition (i.e. lignin, cellulose, hemicelluloses) or in the pulp quality. With the aid of molecular biology she will be able to identify candidate genes involved in this multiplex and complex process. As well we she is studying the tolerance of Eucalyptus for frost, since there are many losses in plantations due to the effect that low temperatures have over small trees, up to 3 years. For this Sofia Valenzuela’s group is using a molecular approach to understand and identify genes involved in the better response of some genotypes to frost. Finally, the group is investigating the resistance of radiata pine to a fungus (Fusarium), by mapping. This will allow us to identify potential genes involved in resistance to fungal diseases.
Address:
Faculty of Forestry Sciences
University of Concepción
Telephone: 56-41-204906
Fax: 56-41-255164
Email: sofvalen@udec.cl
