My research activities focus on understanding plant responses to abiotic stress by integrating molecular, physiological, and biochemical approaches. I have investigated genetic diversity in stress-related traits, the hormonal regulation of fruit development and postharvest quality, and the role of growth regulators in quinoa tolerance to salinity. I have extensive experience in coordinating international and interdisciplinary research, having conducted projects in Chile, Italy, and the USA, funded by national and international agencies (ICGEB-TWAS, ANID, MINEDUC). My publication record includes over 30 WoS- and SCOPUS-indexed articles, two reviews on quinoa, and several book chapters. A commitment to sustainable agriculture drives my work, centred on the valorisation of underutilised crops as biocultural patrimony with the potential to counteract the challenges of climate change, while fostering the development of the next generation of scientists.