Biomolecules (CIBIMOL)

This research line focuses on the study of aromatic and medicinal plants from the Colombian flora. It encompasses extraction and distillation processes, as well as detailed qualitative and quantitative analyses of their volatile components and the compounds responsible for aromas and fragrances, using chromatography and mass spectrometry.

This research line focuses on the development, optimization, and scale-up of analytical and preparative techniques (such as fractional distillation, supercritical fluid extraction, and preparative chromatography) for the selective isolation of individual bioactive molecules from complex natural matrices.

This research line conducts applied research on the establishment, agronomic adaptation, and performance of commercially important plant species cultivated in different regions of Colombia. It correlates environmental variables with the yield and quality of their secondary metabolites.

This research line focuses on the in vitro evaluation and validation of the antioxidant capacity of essential oils, extracts, and isolated plant-derived fractions for their subsequent application as active ingredients in biobased products.

This research line focuses on the screening, testing, and characterization of the antioxidant potential of new molecules and compounds obtained through organic synthesis in the laboratory, with the aim of evaluating their viability and comparing their performance with that of natural sources.

This research line applies high-resolution chemical and instrumental methodologies to determine nutritional composition, detect the presence of food additives, and assess the quality and authenticity of raw materials and processed products in the food industry.

This research line focuses on the monitoring, detection, and quantification of organic contaminants, pesticide residues, and trace levels of xenobiotic substances in environmental matrices (water, soil, and air), providing critical data for environmental impact assessment and sustainability.

This research line focuses on the development and validation of chromatographic and spectrometric techniques for the unequivocal identification, characterization, and quantification of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, chemical precursors, and samples of legal or forensic interest.

This research line focuses on the advanced chemical characterization of hydrocarbons, petroleum fractions, biofuels, and other products of the energy sector, supporting industrial process control and the optimization of refining performance.

This research line focuses on molecular modeling, computational calculations, and the simulation of chemical structures to predict the physicochemical properties, reactivity, and interaction mechanisms of biomolecules and synthetic compounds. The results are compared with experimental data obtained in the laboratory to support and complement the interpretation of experimental findings.

This research line focuses on the study, isolation, and utilization of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, and microbial consortia) and their enzymatic systems to develop biotechnological solutions for environmental sustainability and the valorization of agricultural resources. It integrates classical and molecular microbiology with advanced chemical analyses to evaluate the metabolic potential of regional biodiversity.

This research line focuses on the design and implementation of science outreach strategies, technical training courses, and community engagement activities (such as laboratory visits and field trips to experimental farms) to connect the group’s knowledge with society, academia, and the rural productive sector.