Our Team

Meet the passionate people behind AvianGuard

Click to explore our team in two ways - either view everyone at once in our card gallery, or enjoy a more focused experience with our interactive carousel view!

Students
Aiden Escalante, Student — Biology

Aiden Escalante

Student — Biology

Aiden Escalante

Student — Biology

Roster: Student
Field: Biology
University: Yachay Tech University
Info: Age 21

Aiden is a feminist and university leader who loves spaghetti, microorganisms, and K-pop. She enjoys weaving, cooking for friends, and never says no to a horror movie (or a Barbie film).

Cristina Pamela Lema Rojas, Student — Biomedicine

Cristina Pamela Lema Rojas

Student — Biomedicine

Cristina Pamela Lema Rojas

Student — Biomedicine

Roster: Student
Field: Biomedicine
University: Yachay Tech University
Info: Age 22

Cristina is a fan of movement and good stories. She loves going to the gym and running outdoors, as well as getting lost in books from cheesy romance to conspiracy theories and scientific papers.

Lilibeth Palacios, Student — Biology

Lilibeth Palacios

Student — Biology

Lilibeth Palacios

Student — Biology

Roster: Student
Field: Biology
University: Yachay Tech University
Info: Age 22

Lilibeth is an eternal student dedicated to preserving life that captivates her—from microorganisms to the complex beauty of human beings.

María Fernanda Santillán, Student — Biology

María Fernanda Santillán

Student — Biology

María Fernanda Santillán

Student — Biology

Roster: Student
Field: Biology
University: Yachay Tech University
Info: Age 21

Mafer loves nature, music, science, and art. She paints, writes, learns, and shares about biodiversity, conservation, and life.

Matías Guevara, Student — Biotechnology

Matías Guevara

Student — Biotechnology

Matías Guevara

Student — Biotechnology

Roster: Student
Field: Biotechnology
University: University of the Americas (UDLA)
Info: Age 19

Matías is passionate about science and the challenges that lead to thinking outside the box. He loves spending time in the lab and enjoying music.

Nayeli Navarrete, Student — Biotechnology

Nayeli Navarrete

Student — Biotechnology

Nayeli Navarrete

Student — Biotechnology

Roster: Student
Field: Biotechnology
University: University of the Americas (UDLA)
Info: Age 21

Nayeli is passionate about science and loves spending time with her cats and traveling to her hometown.

Nathaly Azaña, Student — Biotechnology

Nathaly Azaña

Student — Biotechnology

Nathaly Azaña

Student — Biotechnology

Roster: Student
Field: Biotechnology
University: University of the Armed Forces ESPE
Info: Age 22

Nathaly is passionate about science, outreach, molecular biology, and transformative ideas. She believes science must touch real life—ecosystems, animals, and the industries that build our daily lives.

Zuriel Guanoluisa, Student — Biotechnology

Zuriel Guanoluisa

Student — Biotechnology

Zuriel Guanoluisa

Student — Biotechnology

Roster: Student
Field: Biotechnology
University: University of the Armed Forces ESPE
Info: Age 22

Zuriel is a fan of museums, documentaries, constant reading, and discovering new things. If you like hiking up hills, you’ll get along well with him.

Kleber Enrique Chávez Oscullo, Student — Software Engineering

Kleber Enrique Chávez Oscullo

Student — Software Engineering

Kleber Enrique Chávez Oscullo

Student — Software Engineering

Roster: Student
Field: Software Engineering
University: University of the Armed Forces ESPE
Info: Age 22

Kleber is passionate about solving local problems and providing sustainable solutions. He enjoys learning new things and making a positive impact.

Kevin Vargas, Student — Software Engineering

Kevin Vargas

Student — Software Engineering

Kevin Vargas

Student — Software Engineering

Roster: Student
Field: Software Engineering
University: University of the Armed Forces ESPE
Info: Age 22

Kevin is a Software Engineer passionate about front-end development. He enjoys creating websites, making videos, and learning new technologies.

Alejandro Obando, Student — Software Engineering

Alejandro Obando

Student — Software Engineering

Alejandro Obando

Student — Software Engineering

Roster: Student
Field: Software Engineering
University: University of the Armed Forces ESPE
Info: Age 23

Alejandro is passionate about backend development, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies. He also enjoys spending time with his cat.

Martin Suquillo, Student — Software Engineering

Martin Suquillo

Student — Software Engineering

Martin Suquillo

Student — Software Engineering

Roster: Student
Field: Software Engineering
University: University of the Armed Forces ESPE
Info: Age 21

Martín is passionate about music, cosplay, creating props and costumes, as well as video game development.

Martín Unaucho, Student — Mechatronics

Martín Unaucho

Student — Mechatronics

Martín Unaucho

Student — Mechatronics

Roster: Student
Field: Mechatronics
University: University of the Armed Forces ESPE
Info: Age 20

Martín is passionate about art, nature, and science. He practices mountaineering and enjoys swimming, with a fondness for electricity and mathematics.

Sebastian Franco, Student — Biology

Sebastian Franco

Student — Biology

Sebastian Franco

Student — Biology

Roster: Student
Field: Biology
University: Guayaquil Polytechnic School (ESPOL)
Info: Age 21

Sebastian enjoys sports and researching different fields of science while learning new things that expand his knowledge.

Juan Pablo Pinza, Student — Software Engineering

Juan Pablo Pinza

Student — Software Engineering

Juan Pablo Pinza

Student — Software Engineering

Roster: Student
Field: Software Engineering
University: University of the Armed Forces ESPE
Info: Age 21

Juan Pablo is passionate about learning, piano, music, and cats. He focuses on full-stack development and artificial intelligence.

Principal Investigators
Yadira Boada Acosta, Primary PIs — Computer Science

Yadira Boada Acosta

Primary PIs — Computer Science

Yadira Boada Acosta

Primary PIs — Computer Science

Roster: Primary PIs
Field: Computer Science
University: Polytechnic University of Valencia

Yadira is a Postdoctoral Fellow in Synthetic Biology and Bio-industry Engineering at Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV), Spain. She specializes in bioinformatics and contributes to innovative projects in gene expression regulation and bioproduction.

Alejandro Vignoni, Primary PIs — Control Engineering and Synthetic Biology

Alejandro Vignoni

Primary PIs — Control Engineering and Synthetic Biology

Alejandro Vignoni

Primary PIs — Control Engineering and Synthetic Biology

Roster: Primary PIs
Field: Control Engineering and Synthetic Biology
University: Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV)

Alejandro is the Director at IDEAS UPV and a Tenured Professor at the Universitat Politècnica de València, specializing in control engineering and synthetic biology. With over 10 years of experience, he leads innovative projects that integrate engineering and biology for sustainable solutions.

Eduardo Alejandro Moncayo Palacio, Primary PIs — Biotechnology

Eduardo Alejandro Moncayo Palacio

Primary PIs — Biotechnology

Eduardo Alejandro Moncayo Palacio

Primary PIs — Biotechnology

Roster: Primary PIs
Field: Biotechnology
University: Armed Forces University ESPE

Eduardo is a talented biotechnologist who specializes in applied chemistry, permaculture, and agroecological tourism. His technical prowess and innovative mindset are crucial assets to the project.

Francisco Flores, Secondary PIs — Bioinformatics

Francisco Flores

Secondary PIs — Bioinformatics

Francisco Flores

Secondary PIs — Bioinformatics

Roster: Secondary PIs
Field: Bioinformatics
University: Armed Forces University ESPE

Francisco Flores is an Associate Professor at Armed Forces University ESPE in Ecuador, specializing in Plant Pathology. He has participated in the iGEM competition multiple times, showcasing an innovative approach to synthetic biology.

Instructors
Carolina Guamán, Instructor — Biotechnology

Carolina Guamán

Instructor — Biotechnology

Carolina Guamán

Instructor — Biotechnology

Roster: Instructor
Field: Biotechnology
University: Armed Forces University ESPE
Info: Age 24

Carolina is a dedicated instructor with a passion for teaching and mentoring students. Her technical knowledge and teaching skills are invaluable in shaping the next generation of researchers.

María José Campaña, Instructor — Biotechnology

María José Campaña

Instructor — Biotechnology

María José Campaña

Instructor — Biotechnology

Roster: Instructor
Field: Biotechnology
University: Universidad Israel
Info: Age 27

María José is a talented technical instructor who specializes in laboratory techniques and experimental design. She plays a crucial role ensuring students receive hands-on training and develop essential research skills.

Pamela Mishell Mosquera Carrera, Instructor — Biotechnology

Pamela Mishell Mosquera Carrera

Instructor — Biotechnology

Pamela Mishell Mosquera Carrera

Instructor — Biotechnology

Roster: Instructor
Field: Biotechnology
University: Universidad de las Américas
Info: Age 29

Pamela is a dedicated biotechnology instructor and researcher. Her passion for scientific communication and DIY biology fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration.

Wladimir Tandapilco Llumitaxi, Instructor — Biotechnology

Wladimir Tandapilco Llumitaxi

Instructor — Biotechnology

Wladimir Tandapilco Llumitaxi

Instructor — Biotechnology

Roster: Instructor
Field: Biotechnology
University: Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo
Info: Age 29

Wladimir is a versatile instructor with expertise in synthetic biology, science fiction, and cultural exchange. His enthusiasm for democratizing knowledge makes him a valuable member of the team.

María Fernanda Arias, Instructor — Biotechnology Engineering

María Fernanda Arias

Instructor — Biotechnology Engineering

María Fernanda Arias

Instructor — Biotechnology Engineering

Roster: Instructor
Field: Biotechnology Engineering
University: Universita degli studi di Milano
Info: Age 27

Mafer is now a Master's student in Biotechnology for the Bioeconomy at the Universita degli studi di Milano. She enjoys mountaineering in her free time.

Advisors
Alberto Aguirre, Advisor — Biotechnology

Alberto Aguirre

Advisor — Biotechnology

Alberto Aguirre

Advisor — Biotechnology

Roster: Advisor
Field: Biotechnology
University: Yachay Tech

Alberto is a Biotechnology Engineer with a PhD, specializing in applied microbiology and synthetic biology. He coordinates the Master's in Synthetic Biology and has over ten years of experience in research and teaching.

Alex Salazar, Advisor — Biotechnology

Alex Salazar

Advisor — Biotechnology

Alex Salazar

Advisor — Biotechnology

Roster: Advisor
Field: Biotechnology
University: Armed Forces University ESPE
Info: Age 28

Alex is a talented biotechnologist who brings a wealth of laboratory experience to the team. He enjoys learning new techniques and exploring the night through long walks.

Erick Moreno, Advisor — Biotechnology

Erick Moreno

Advisor — Biotechnology

Erick Moreno

Advisor — Biotechnology

Roster: Advisor
Field: Biotechnology
University: Salesian Polytechnic University
Info: Age 26

Erick is a biotechnology graduate whose interests range from botany to mechanics. He excels at translating complex scientific concepts into accessible language.

Kimberly Castro, Advisor — Biotechnology

Kimberly Castro

Advisor — Biotechnology

Kimberly Castro

Advisor — Biotechnology

Roster: Advisor
Field: Biotechnology
University: Salesian Polytechnic University
Info: Age 28

Kimberly is a biotechnology graduate passionate about bioinformatics. Her programming and data analysis skills, together with her artistic talents in painting and photography, make her a well-rounded advisor.

Luisa Espinosa, Advisor — Bioinformatics

Luisa Espinosa

Advisor — Bioinformatics

Luisa Espinosa

Advisor — Bioinformatics

Roster: Advisor
Field: Bioinformatics
University: Particular Technical University of Loja
Info: Age 26

Luisa is a bioinformatics graduate with deep passion for molecular biology research. Her dedication to scientific exploration and outreach makes her a valuable advisor.

Michelle Paredes-Escobar, Advisor — Bioinformatics

Michelle Paredes-Escobar

Advisor — Bioinformatics

Michelle Paredes-Escobar

Advisor — Bioinformatics

Roster: Advisor
Field: Bioinformatics
University: University of the Armed Forces ESPE
Info: Age 28

Michelle is a bioinformatics graduate who pursued further studies in computational biology. Her expertise and geeky interests in anime and beach walks make her a well-rounded advisor.

Erick Moreta, Advisor — Integrative Synthetic Biology (M.Sc)

Erick Moreta

Advisor — Integrative Synthetic Biology (M.Sc)

Erick Moreta

Advisor — Integrative Synthetic Biology (M.Sc)

Roster: Advisor
Field: Integrative Synthetic Biology (M.Sc)
Info: Age 27

Erick is passionate about nature and its lessons, and he is also a music enthusiast.

Student Leaders
Johao Fernando Silva Menéndez, Student Leaders — Biotechnology

Johao Fernando Silva Menéndez

Student Leaders — Biotechnology

Johao Fernando Silva Menéndez

Student Leaders — Biotechnology

Roster: Student Leaders
Field: Biotechnology
University: University of the Armed Forces ESPE
Info: Age 23

Johao is fascinated by new and innovative ideas. He needs to keep his mind active and his body in motion; dance, parties, and travel recharge his vital energy.

Krister Samuel Figueroa Flores, Student Leaders — Biology

Krister Samuel Figueroa Flores

Student Leaders — Biology

Krister Samuel Figueroa Flores

Student Leaders — Biology

Roster: Student Leaders
Field: Biology
University: Guayaquil Polytechnic School (ESPOL)
Info: Age 20

Krister loves anime, video games, and exploring various scientific fields. He brings curiosity, creativity, and dedication to each experiment.

María Valentina Ramírez San Miguel, Student Leaders — Biology

María Valentina Ramírez San Miguel

Student Leaders — Biology

María Valentina Ramírez San Miguel

Student Leaders — Biology

Roster: Student Leaders
Field: Biology
University: Guayaquil Polytechnic School (ESPOL)
Info: Age 22

Valentina relaxes watching anime and sharing meals or movies with family and friends. She enjoys aimless walks, quirky museums, and playlists that last longer than her PCR reactions.

Others
Bryan Quispe, Other — Software Engineering

Bryan Quispe

Other — Software Engineering

Bryan Quispe

Other — Software Engineering

Roster: Other
Field: Software Engineering
University: University of the Armed Forces ESPE
Info: Age 21

Bryan is passionate about rock music, video games, ethical hacking, Linux, and playing with his cat.

Diego Jiménez, Other — Software Engineering

Diego Jiménez

Other — Software Engineering

Diego Jiménez

Other — Software Engineering

Roster: Other
Field: Software Engineering
University: University of the Armed Forces ESPE
Info: Age 23

Diego is passionate about web development, science, artificial intelligence, and data analysis. He enjoys making videos and learning about new technologies.

María Agusta Erazo Espinosa, Other — Biotechnology

María Agusta Erazo Espinosa

Other — Biotechnology

María Agusta Erazo Espinosa

Other — Biotechnology

Roster: Other
Field: Biotechnology
University: Yachay Tech University
Info: Age 25

María Agusta is a biotechnology graduate fascinated by science fiction, art, and science. Her versatility and enthusiasm for hands-on work in the lab make her an excellent advisor.

Anabell Raura, Other — Psychology (Master's)

Anabell Raura

Other — Psychology (Master's)

Anabell Raura

Other — Psychology (Master's)

Roster: Other
Field: Psychology (Master's)

Anabell specializes in Coaching and Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP). She supports individuals and organizations in personal development and leadership, using psychological tools and NLP for sustainable change.