The research of Dr. Castro-Varela focuses on the photobiology and photochemistry of algae, aiming to understand the photoregulation of carbon metabolism and its integration with biotechnology and bioprocess. His work seeks to harness algal systems for the sustainable production of bioactive and healthy bioproducts that benefit society and the environment. Currently, he serve as an Assistant Professor and member of the Microalgae Research Group (FICOLAB) in the Department of Botany, Faculty of Natural and Oceanographic Sciences, University of Concepción, Chile.