The Chilean Association of Immunologists (ASOCHIN) awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award in Immunology to Dr. Mónica Imarai Bahamonde, a distinguished USACH academic at the Faculty of Chemistry and Biology. This recognition, granted by her peers after consulting all association members, highlights the researcher's commitment to advancing immunology in Chile.
Dr. Mónica Imarai is a respected professor at the Immunology Laboratory of the Center for Aquaculture Biotechnology at the University of Santiago. She has dedicated her career to developing research tools, such as antibodies, for the study of fish immunology and informed decision-making regarding the use of antibiotics in the aquaculture market.
In her acceptance speech, she expressed deep gratitude to those who enabled her current position, especially her teachers. She emphasized her strong connection to the institution, stating that despite being educated at the University of Concepción and Pontifical Catholic University, “she is still another USACH member at heart.”
"I love the University of Santiago because it offered me a space to grow; a place where scientific projects can be realized and robust support can be found. USACH Biochemists receive an excellent education, which makes them great scientists," she stated, linking the university's academic quality to scientific excellence.
After receiving this distinction, the Immunology academic urged students to strive, asserting that "victories are born from effort." She encouraged them not to be discouraged, emphasizing that "even the darkest paths have something clear."
She concluded by adding that this Lifetime Award provides a significant dose of energy to continue her daily work, with the certainty that she can contribute meaningfully to science and education through her ongoing research and teaching.