About CIAB

Learn about our history, mission and vision as a center of research excellence.

Our History

The Agro-Biotechnology Research Center (CIAB) has its roots in the Agro-Biotechnology Research Group (GIAB), founded in 2022 within the Department of Chemical Engineering at the La Plata Regional Faculty of UTN.

From the outset, GIAB showed a strong commitment to scientific research, technological development and innovation in agro-biotechnologies. During its early years, the group achieved important milestones, including research grants, agreements with private companies and public agencies, and participation in national and international scientific events.

On June 25, 2025, the Superior Council of the National Technological University (UTN) approved the transformation of GIAB into a Research Center, thus attaining the highest institutional rank for scientific and technological activity.

Timeline

2022

GIAB Established

Founding of the Agro-Biotechnology Research Group

2024

FITBA Projects

Funding secured for pavilion projects

2025

Accreditation as CIAB

Approval by the Superior Council

2025

Cannabis Consortium

First cannabis consortium

Mission

To foster a collaborative, multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary environment for research, development and innovation (R&D&I) that responds to social and productive needs, focusing on the production, management and administration processes of Argentina's agro-industrial chain and their socioeconomic impact.

Vision

To position CIAB as a leading center for research, development, innovation and technology transfer, recognized for its scientific excellence, talent development and sustainable solutions that turn knowledge into economic and social value for the productive sector and the community.

Strategic Objectives

Our objectives guide all our research and outreach activities

Human Capital Development

To train outstanding human capital in agro-biotechnology, including PhD and master's students, graduates and research fellows with research and management skills.

Technology Transfer

To transfer research results to society and the productive sector, generating real impact on Argentine agribusiness.

Regional Partnerships

To build ties with other R&D&I groups and centers in the region to strengthen scientific collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Technology Observatory

To establish a technology observatory in agro-biotechnology to monitor trends and opportunities in the sector.

Disciplinary Areas

CIAB is organized into four priority areas of work

Chemical Engineering, Food and Biotechnology

Development of biotechnological processes and food technology

Information Systems, Mechanics and Process Engineering

Application of AI and automation in industrial processes

Human Capital Development

Specialized education and training programs.

  • Diploma in Natural Cosmetics
  • Diploma in Functional and Healthy Nutrition
  • Diploma in Knowledge Management and Soft Skills
  • Associate Degree in Food Industries
  • Master's Degree in Food Technology

Economics, Management and Business

Technology transfer and development of technology-based companies.

Leadership

Dr. Ing. Luis Héctor Perego

Director of CIAB

PhD in Management Sciences and Chemical Engineer. MBA. Professor at UTN. Leader in agro-biotechnology research and university-industry partnerships.

Dra. Ing. Silvia A. Marteau

Deputy Director of CIAB

PhD in Management Sciences and Chemical Engineer. Professional at CIAB UTN-La Plata. Associate Professor of Economics at UTN.