Universidad del Istmo
Projects | 2019
Corn Reborn
Sofia Marroquin, Maria Regina Mendez, Salome Montenegro, Ana Luz Valenzuela
The project seeks to create a new textile with husks from corn, one of Guatemala’s staple crops. By mixing hydrolyzed husks with a mix of wax, glycerol, and citric acid, the team created early prototypes to replace polyester fabrics.
Instructors and mentors
Roberto Enrique Sosa
Roberto Enrique Sosa is an Architect with a Master's degree in Planning and Urban Management. He also has a specialization in office design and furniture design. Roberto has combined his professional career with University teaching, being a University professor from 2002 to the present day. He has participated as a consultant and researcher in high impact projects and is interested in the development of new materials and technologies in the field of architecture, furniture, and urban equipment.
Juan Pablo Arocha
Juan Pablo Arocha is a Business Development Manager at a Life and Analytical Sciences Company based in Central America. Juan Pablo has more than 15 years of experience in Genomics, Molecular Diagnostics, Applied Biotechnology and Research and Development. Co-founder of the first community laboratory in Central America. His interest is to build biotechnology-based businesses in the region by provinding access to seed capital, angel investments, a network of mentors and access to infrastructure. Background in International Business and Economics.
Josinna Barahona Olivares
Josinna Barahona Olivares is a biotechnologist with a major in research and project management. She has led and participated in several projects of research, development, innovation and entrepreneurship. Today she is the CEO of a startup and is dedicated to social innovation.
Luis Ricardo Alvarez Giron
Luis Ricardo Alvarez Giron has a Ph.D. in Entomology, an M.Sc. in Entomology, and a Master's Degree in Business Administration (MBA). He is an Agronomist Engineer, Post Doctorate in Polyce Science, Technology and Innovation.
Banner image: Michael D. Beckwith, The Leeds Library.