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Researcher, Educator & Food Scientist

Priscila Santiago, Ph.D., is a highly qualified professional with a strong background in Food Chemistry and emerging processing techniques. With teaching experience at both Boise State University and Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, she has mentored undergraduate and graduate students in qualitative and quantitative research methods, data analysis, and reporting. Priscila holds a Ph.D. in Engineering Sciences and a B.Sc. in Food Industry Engineering from Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey. Her expertise in the food processing industry, as well as her fluency in Spanish and English, make her a valuable asset. Priscila is seeking opportunities to apply her knowledge and skills in research and academia, with a focus on sustainable food systems. Her experience as an adjunct faculty and support research faculty demonstrates her commitment to education and industry collaboration.

Education

Research Experience

2021present

Post-doctoral Researcher

Boise State University, Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry
  • Conduct independent and collaborative research initiatives in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at Boise State University, focusing on food-related industry-driven projects.
  • Manage primary grant-funded projects, including snack improvement utilizing Pulsed Electric Fields (PEF) ($387,170.00 awarded), wine improvement using PEF technology ($165,780.00 awarded), and metabolomic and quality effects of smoke on potato crops ($125,000.00 awarded).
  • Optimize the novel processing technology, Pulsed Electric Fields (PEF), to enhance food-related processes and product quality.
  • Analyze and interpret research findings, comparing actual and expected results to identify deviations and propose solutions.
  • Evaluate existing research and modeling techniques, recommending improvements to ensure quality and productivity.
  • Prepare comprehensive documentation of research activities, adhering to data management protocols.
  • Present research results in meetings, conferences, and seminars, effectively communicating complex concepts to diverse audiences.
  • Operate and maintain research and field equipment, ensuring their proper functioning and accuracy.
  • Take responsibility for discrete components of larger research projects, working under the general direction of the principal investigator.
  • Supervise, mentor, and train undergraduate and graduate students, as well as research staff, fostering a collaborative and productive research environment.
  • Advocate for safety and ethics in the workplace, promoting a culture of responsible research practices.
  • Participate in the NSF Convergence Accelerator's Track J: Food & Nutrition Security project, focusing on Dairy Protein Product Research and Innovation Hub ($750,000.00 awarded).
20122017

Researcher

Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, Campus Queretaro, Mexico
  • Conducted extensive research on Mexican native plants and foods to identify phytochemicals with potential preventive and therapeutic properties for chronic degenerative diseases such as diabetes, inflammation, cholesterol, and cancer.
  • Implemented advanced techniques for the extraction, identification, and isolation of phytochemicals, as well as in-vitro and animal testing in a laboratory setting.
  • Investigated the mechanisms by which phytochemicals prevent or treat chronic degenerative diseases, utilizing nutrigenomic techniques and analyzing the nutraceutical capacity of fruit-based foods.
  • Completed a doctoral dissertation titled "Preservation of the antioxidant activity and bioactive compounds of berrycacti (Myrtillocactus Geometrizans) to obtain a functional food by using two drying methods."
  • Maintained accurate and detailed records of research procedures, results, and observations, ensuring the integrity and reproducibility of the study.
  • Collaborated with a research group, actively participating in discussions, sharing insights, and contributing to the overall progress of the team.
  • Presented research findings at conferences and published articles in peer-reviewed journals, disseminating knowledge and contributing to the scientific community.
  • Ensured clarity and accessibility of research findings by communicating complex concepts clearly and concisely, avoiding technical jargon.

Doctoral dissertation: "Preservation of the antioxidant activity and bioactive compounds of berrycacti (Myrtillocactus Geometrizans) to obtain a functional food by using two drying methods." 

20152016

Fulbright Research Scholar

University of the Pacific, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Stockton CA
  • Conducted groundbreaking research at the University of the Pacific, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying cardiovascular impairment in female diabetic rats.
  • Utilized berrycactus extract as a novel therapeutic approach, aiming to restore cardiovascular protection in diabetic rats.
  • Designed and executed experiments, collecting and analyzing data to draw meaningful conclusions and contribute to the field of cardiovascular research.
  • Collaborated with a team of researchers, sharing insights and expertise to enhance the quality and impact of the study.
  • Maintained accurate and detailed records of experimental procedures, ensuring reproducibility and facilitating future research.
  • Followed strict ethical guidelines and safety protocols, ensuring the well-being of research subjects and the integrity of the study.
  • Proofread all research reports and publications, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and adherence to scientific writing standards.

Teaching Experience

2022present

Support research faculty (Vertically Integrated Project: Food Systems)

Boise State University
  • Serve as a support research faculty member for the Vertically Integrated Project (VIP) on Food Systems at Boise State University, integrating industrial skills into laboratory experiences for student research training.
  • Act as a liaison between the university and industry priority projects in the food and dairy processing field, ensuring effective collaboration and knowledge transfer.
  • Mentor undergraduate and graduate students, providing guidance on appropriate methodologies used in industry priority projects, including qualitative and quantitative research methods, structured data collection, analysis, and reporting.
  • Facilitate the development and implementation of research protocols, ensuring adherence to industry standards and best practices.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and execute research studies, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field of food systems.
  • Maintain clear and concise documentation of research activities, facilitating knowledge transfer and ensuring accurate and timely reporting.
  • Foster a collaborative and inclusive learning environment, promoting the professional and personal growth of students.
  • Diligently proofread all research reports and documentation, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and adherence to academic standards.
20122015

Adjunct faculty (Chemistry & Food Chemistry)

Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, Campus Queretaro, Mexico
  • Delivered engaging lectures and workshops on Chemistry and Food Chemistry at the undergraduate level, fostering a dynamic and interactive learning environment.
  • Collaborated with colleagues in the development of teaching materials, ensuring the delivery of high-quality and up-to-date content to students.
  • Mentored students on an individual basis, providing guidance and support to enhance their understanding and academic performance.
  • Participated actively in academic activities, including seminars, departmental collaborations, and institutional events, contributing to the overall growth and development of the institution.
  • Developed and implemented innovative teaching strategies, resulting in improved student engagement and learning outcomes.
  • Maintained clear and concise communication with students and colleagues, avoiding technical jargon to ensure understanding by all stakeholders.
  • Ensured consistency and accuracy in all teaching materials and documentation, proofreading for errors and typos.
  • Demonstrated a commitment to professional growth and development by staying updated with the latest advancements in the field of Chemistry and Food Chemistry.

Industry Experience

2021present

Director of PEF Applications

Food Physics
  • Serve as the Director of PEF Applications, bridging the gap between product applications and machine service work in the food and agricultural processing industry.
  • Apply extensive knowledge and expertise in Pulsed Electric Field Processing to design and conduct test trials, analyze data, and issue comprehensive trial reports.
  • Collaborate closely with customers in the Food Physics Applications Lab, providing expert guidance and support to ensure successful implementation of PEF technology.
  • Manage projects effectively, overseeing all aspects of trial execution, including installation and training at customer sites.
  • Supervise and maintain accurate experimental documentation, ensuring compliance with industry standards and best practices.
  • Conduct in-depth analysis and interpretation of PEF application reports, comparing actual results with expected outcomes, and proposing solutions to correct any deviations.
  • Demonstrate strong project management skills, consistently meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality results.
  • Facilitate field and application trials, providing training and support to customers to maximize the benefits of PEF technology.

Honors & awards

20152016

Student Ph.D. Thesis Scholarship

Fulbright - García Robles Visiting Scholar Program
20132013

Teaching Award

Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey , Campus Queretaro, Mexico

Best student evaluations, Engineering and Architecture Department

Certifications

20212026

ServSafe Food Protection Manager

National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation

Publications

  1. Santiago-Mora, Priscila D., Téllez-Pérez, Carmen, Tenbergen, Klaus, Montejano-Gaitán, José G., Cardador-Martínez, Anaberta, Martín del Campo, Sandra T. (2019) Berrycati (Myrtillocactus spp.): An unexplored Mexican crop with nutraceutical potential. In: Marianna Rodrigues Santos (Ed.), Cacti: Ecology, Conservation, Uses and Significance (pp. 185-230). Nova Science Publishers, Inc.
  2. Santiago-Mora, Priscila Desiree, Cardador-Martinez, Anaberta, Tellez-Perez, Carmen, Montejano-Gaitan, Jose Gerardo, Martin del Campo, Sandra T. (2017) In-Vitro Antioxidant Capacity and Bioactive Compounds Preservation Post-Drying on Berrycacti (Myrtillocactus Geometrizans). Journal of Food Research. 6: 4. pp. 121-134. https://doi.org/10.5539/jfr.v6n4p121 
  3. Tenbergen, Klaus, Santiago-Mora, Priscila D., & Ferris, Dennis. (2016). Shelf-Life Extension. In J. J. Cousminer (Ed.), Culinology: The Intersection of Culinary Arts and Food Science (pp. 286-304): Wiley.
  4. Santiago-Mora, P., Tenbergen, K., Cardador-Martínez, A., and Martín del Campo Barba, S. T. (2014). Garambullo extracts differentiation during maturation stages: antioxidant activity. In: Discovery, utilization and control of bioactive component and functional foods, San Diego, CA, pp. 43-45.
  5. Vélez-Jiménez, E., Tenbergen, K., Santiago, P. D., and Cardador-Martínez, M. A. (2014). Functional Attributes of Amaranth. Austin Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences. 2: 6.
  6. Santiago, P. D., Camargo, A. P., Tafoya, J., Trejo, R. E., González, J. D., and Martin del Campo, S. T. (2012). Accelerated Shelf Life Oil Tests of Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus). In: IFT 12 Annual Meeting & Food Expo, Las Vegas, NV, June 25-28, 2012.
  7. Cardador-Martínez, A., Arce, I., Cervantes, M., Santiago, P. D., Pérez, V., and Martin del Campo, S. T. (2011). Changes in phenols, anthocyanins, and antioxidant activity in garambullo (Myrtillocactus geometrizans) nectar after pasteurization. In: 11 IFT Annual Meeting & Food Expo, New Orleans, LA, June 11- 14, 2011.

Research interests

  • Nutraceuticals, functional foods & bioactive compounds
  • Food Chemistry
  • Shelf-life & food preservation
  • Culinology®
  • Pigment extraction 
  • Food design
  • Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) technology
  • Upcycling of food waste
  • Sustainable Food Systems
  • Snack foods

Presentations

Functional and nutritional attributes of California dried fruits in baked goods and savory items, presented in:

  • Taipei, Taiwan (November 2015)
  • Singapore, Singapore (May 2017 & June 2019)
  • Shanghai, China (November 2016)
  • Manila, Philippines (May 2017 & June 2019)
  • Beijing, China (December 2016)
  • Bangkok, Thailand (May 2017)
  • Taipei, Taiwan (March 2017)
  • CDMX, Puebla, Tijuana & Monterrey, Mexico (May 2019)
Webinars:
  • Easter with California Raisins (February 2022)
  • Santa at Home (December 2020)
  • Una ventaja competitiva con las pasas de California- Retailers' Magazine (September 2020)
  • Conoce las alternativas de snacks saludables utilizando las pasas de California- Nutriologa Fernanda Alvarado @BienComer (December 2020)
  • Que pasa con las pasas- Enfasis Alimentacion (September 2020)
  • The Business of baking with raisins- Bakers Journal (October 2020)

International Congress of Research in Economic and Administrative Sciences:

  • Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, México (October 2017 & September 2018)

Languages

Spanish

Native language

English

Proficient (speaking, reading and writing)

Professional Memberships

  • Institute of Food Technologists (IFT)
  • Academic Society for Functional Foods and Bioactive Compounds  (ASFFBC)
  • International Society of Food Engineering (ISFE)

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