Dr. NORMA BELTRAN | Agricultural | Women Researcher Award

Reasearch, at The University Of arizona, United States.

Norma Patricia Silva Beltrán is a distinguished biotechnology engineer and researcher with expertise in food safety, antimicrobial properties, and agro-industrial byproduct valorization. With a career spanning academia, research, and industrial applications, she has contributed significantly to food biotechnology and sustainability. She has held academic positions in Mexico and the United States, focusing on innovative biotechnological solutions for food security and environmental health. Her work integrates natural compounds like essential oils into food preservation and public health applications. As a member of the National System of Researchers (SNI) in Mexico, she has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and collaborates internationally in cutting-edge food safety projects.

Professional Profile

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🎓 Education

Norma Patricia Silva Beltrán holds a Biotechnology Engineering degree from the Instituto Tecnológico de Sonora (1991-1996), where she researched moisture behavior in snack production. She earned a Master’s in Environmental Science and Sustainable Development from the Universidad Autónoma de Sinaloa (2001-2004), investigating bactericidal activity in hydrothermal mango treatments. She later pursued a Ph.D. in Biotechnology at the Instituto Tecnológico de Sonora (2010-2014), where she studied the chemical composition and bioactive properties of agro-industrial byproducts from potatoes and tomatoes. Additionally, she has completed diplomas in teaching, generic competencies, and nutrition. Her strong multilingual background includes English certifications such as TOEFL (570 pts) and a B2 Oral Proficiency Interview from the University of Arizona.

🧑‍🏫 Experience

Dr. Silva Beltrán has accumulated extensive experience across academia, research, and industry. She worked as a quality control laboratory technician (1994-1998) at SABRITAS, S.A. de C.V., ensuring the chemical and physical integrity of food ingredients. In academia, she has served as a professor at multiple institutions, including the Instituto Tecnológico de Sonora (2001-2014), the Tecnológico de Monterrey (2011), and the Universidad de Sonora (2013-2016, 2024). As a Research Scholar at the University of Arizona (2023-2024), she contributed to biotechnological innovations using natural plant derivatives for food safety. She has also held roles as a postdoctoral researcher at the National Laboratory for Food Safety (LANNIA-CONACYT) and an associate researcher at the University of Arizona’s Department of Environmental Sciences (2021-2025).

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Silva Beltrán’s research focuses on the valorization of agro-industrial byproducts, food safety innovations, and the application of biotechnological solutions to public health and environmental sustainability. She specializes in natural antimicrobials, including essential oils, and their integration into food packaging and preservation. Her studies explore bioactive compounds from agricultural waste, antioxidant and antimicrobial mechanisms, and genomic characterization of beneficial microbes. She is also involved in developing biodegradable food coatings and antimicrobial films to reduce chemical preservatives in food systems. Her interdisciplinary research spans microbiology, food chemistry, and environmental science, emphasizing sustainable and scalable biotechnological applications.

🏆 Awards & Distinctions

Dr. Silva Beltrán has received multiple accolades for her contributions to biotechnology and academia. She was honored as a Distinguished Professor at Instituto Tecnológico de Sonora (2006, 2007) and recognized as a Distinguished Citizen of Cajeme (2017) by the Universidad Interamericana para el Desarrollo. She is a National Researcher Level C (2016-2018) and Level 1 (2019-2026) in the National System of Researchers (SNI-CONACYT) in Mexico. Her work in agricultural, biotechnological, and environmental sciences has significantly advanced food safety and sustainability, earning her national and international recognition in the field.

📚 Top Notes Publications

Dr. Silva Beltrán has authored several high-impact scientific articles in indexed journals. Her research has been widely cited in the fields of food biotechnology and environmental health.

Silva-Beltrán, N. P., et al. (2014).
Title: Chemical constitution and effect of extracts of tomato plants byproducts on the enteric viral surrogates.
Journal: International Journal of Environmental Health Research, 25(3), 299-311.
DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2014.938030
Summary: This study analyzed the chemical composition of tomato plant byproducts and their antiviral properties. The results indicated that certain bioactive compounds in tomato extracts exhibited inhibitory effects on enteric viral surrogates, suggesting potential applications in food safety and public health.
Silva-Beltrán, N. P., et al. (2015).
Title: Total Phenolic, Flavonoid, Tomatine, and Tomatidine contents and Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Extracts of Tomato Plant.
Journal: International Journal of Analytical Chemistry.
DOI: 10.1155/2015/284071
Summary: This research evaluated the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of tomato plant extracts, as well as their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The findings demonstrated the potential of tomato-derived compounds in food preservation and pharmaceutical applications.
López-Mata, M. A., et al. (2013).
Title: Physicochemical, Antimicrobial, and Antioxidant Properties of Chitosan Films Incorporated with Carvacrol.
Journal: Molecules, 18, 13735-13753.
DOI: 10.3390/molecules181113735
Summary: This study explored the incorporation of carvacrol, a natural antimicrobial agent, into chitosan-based films. The results showed that these films had enhanced antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, making them a promising alternative for biodegradable food packaging.
López-Mata, M. A., et al. (2015).
Title: Physicochemical and Antioxidant Properties of Chitosan Films Incorporated with Cinnamon Oil.
Journal: International Journal of Polymer Science.
DOI: 10.1155/2015/974506
Summary: The study focused on the development of chitosan films with cinnamon oil, evaluating their mechanical, physicochemical, and antioxidant properties. The results indicated that cinnamon oil improved the film’s effectiveness as an active packaging material with potential applications in food preservation.
Campas-Baypoli, O. N., et al. (2015).
Title: Phenolic profile, antioxidant capacity, and sulforaphane content during the storage of broccoli sprouts.
Journal: International Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, 6(3), 133-140.
Summary: This research investigated how storage conditions affect the phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, and sulforaphane levels in broccoli sprouts. The study provided insights into maintaining the nutritional and functional quality of sprouts during storage.
Silva-Beltrán, N. P., et al. (2015).
Title: Efecto de solventes de extracción en la actividad biológica de extractos de subproductos de la papa (Solanum tuberosum).
Journal: Biotecnia, XVII(2).
Summary: This study evaluated the impact of different extraction solvents on the biological activity of potato byproduct extracts. The findings suggested that specific solvents enhanced the extraction of bioactive compounds, improving their antimicrobial and antioxidant effects.
López-Mata, M. A., et al. (2015).
Title: Antibacterial and antioxidant properties of edible chitosan coating incorporated with essential oils.
Journal: International Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biological Sciences, 6(4), 251-264.
Summary: The study examined the effect of essential oils on the antibacterial and antioxidant properties of chitosan-based edible coatings. The results showed that these coatings could effectively extend the shelf life of perishable foods while maintaining their safety and quality.

Conclusion

Norma Patricia Silva Beltrán is a highly qualified candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award, given her strong academic background, impactful research in biotechnology and food safety, and international collaborations. To further strengthen her application, she could emphasize publications, leadership in securing research funding, and mentorship efforts for women in STEM. If these aspects are well-documented, she stands as an excellent nominee.

Introduction of Agricultural and Biological Sciences:

Agricultural and Biological Sciences encompass a diverse and critical field of study that explores the intricate relationship between living organisms and the environment. This multidisciplinary branch of science plays a pivotal role in addressing global challenges such as food security, sustainability, and the conservation of biodiversity.

Crop Science and Agronomy:

This sub field focuses on the cultivation, breeding, and management of crops for optimal yield, quality, and sustainability. Researchers work to develop new crop varieties, improve crop management practices, and address issues related to food production.

Genetics and Genomics:

Genetic research is crucial for understanding the hereditary factors that influence plant and animal traits. Genomics explores the entire genetic makeup of organisms, enabling advancements in selective breeding, disease resistance, and biotechnology.

Ecology and Environmental Biology:

This subtopic delves into the study of ecosystems, biodiversity, and the impact of human activities on the environment. Researchers aim to mitigate environmental degradation and promote conservation efforts.

Microbiology and Biotechnology:

Microbiologists investigate microorganisms' roles in agriculture and biological processes. Biotechnology involves harnessing living organisms for applications like genetic engineering, biofuel production, and pharmaceuticals.

Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine:

Focused on the well-being and productivity of livestock and companion animals, this field encompasses research on animal health, nutrition, breeding, and management.

Soil Science:

Soil scientists examine the properties and health of soils, including nutrient content, structure, and fertility. Their work is crucial for sustainable agriculture and land management.

Plant Physiology:

Plant physiologists study the internal processes of plants, including growth, development, and responses to environmental factors. Their research informs crop management and stress tolerance.

Biological Conservation:

Conservation biologists work to protect endangered species and their habitats, aiming to preserve biodiversity and ecosystems for future generations.

Entomology:

Entomologists study insects and their roles in agriculture, ecology, and disease transmission. Their research contributes to pest management and pollination strategies.

Biomedical Sciences:

This interdisciplinary sub field explores the biological basis of human health and disease, with applications in medicine, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology.

These subtopics collectively advance our understanding of the biological world and have a profound impact on addressing global challenges related to food security, environmental sustainability, and human health.

NORMA BELTRAN | Agricultural | Women Researcher Award