Oportunidades Públicas

Development of mechanical systems of the solar vehicle

Design, calculation and manufacturing of mechanical components of a solar vehicle.
Key words: V-Solar
Course: ICM2985

Mecanismos moleculares de utilización de oligosacáridos de leche materna

Mecanismo molecular de utilización de oligosacáridos de leche materna por Bifidobacterium longum SC664. Clonación de genes candidatos y expresión de proteínas. Purificación y ensayos enzimáticos. Curvas de crecimiento y cuantificación del consumo de azúcares por TLC.

Marine Robotics Systems -- 5CR

Several opportunities to work in a interdisciplinary team on projects related to modeling, mechanical design, electronics, control and programming of marine robotic systems. This 5 credit version is for a limited work supporting larger projects.

Development of sustainable systems for grey water reuse

theoretical and practical research work to develop innovative treatment systems of grey water.

Increased evaporation due to advection of dry air

Investigating the "oasis effect" which can increase the evaporation rates in bodies of water that are located in areas hyper-arid.

Finite element methods for problems of hyperbolic

Finite element methods for problems of hyperbolic

Evidence-based Policy and Innovation Research Lab

Contact professor

The green tax on vehicles. Does it work?

Every new car that is sold in Chile must pay a tax to the “green” that depends on their emissions of NOx and CO2 (the exact amount for each vehicle can be calculated in https://www4.sii.cl/calcImpVehiculoNuevoInternet/internet.html ) . Although the origin of this tax is the levy (it was part of the Tax Reform of 2014 to fund free university), can have a positive environmental impact. This research aims to estimate the effect of this tax on the emissions of the new car fleet. What has changed the average emission of the fleet? That is to say do You sell cars more clean today than yesterday? The brands are ahead of the compliance with future standards for their models to pay less tax?
All of these questions are very important to assess the impact of the tax, and to assess its performance as an instrument of environmental regulation.

Assembly and measurement of synthetic gene circuits

Construct DNAs using techniques from molecular biology and then measure their output in growing cell cultures.

Reconstruction of incomplete images

The images submuestreadas are a way to increase the speed of acquisition for the magnetic resonance imaging. In this project we will study different spaces in which they can represent the data in a manner to facilitate its reconstruction by employing algorithms of Compressed Sensing.

Quantification of remodeling in patients with tetralogy of Fallot

1 in 2000 kids are born with tetralogy of Fallot, a combination of 4 serious congenital heart defects. To overcome these problems, the patient undergoes a series of surgeries and the heart responds by remodeling, adapting its form and function. However, the way this adaptation occurs is not fully characterized. The goal of this study is to locally quantify the remodeling of the heart in response to these surgeries. We will magnetic resonance images and the finite element method. This research will enable the development of predictive models to help the planning and optimization of the current surgeries.

Size and scale of volcanoes in different environments of the cortex

This project will use data from a database data of morphometry of volcanoes (i.e., Grosse et al., 2008) to understand the distribution of the size and scale of the volcanoes. The student will perform statistical analysis and thermodynamic

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Acquisition and Reconstruction

High-order boundary integral equation methods for Stokes flow problems

I invite applications of highly motivated undergraduate students to pursue research on novel boundary integral equation methods for the solution of Stokes flow problems with applications in biology. Successful candidates are expected to have basic knowledge in the following areas: fluid mechanics, scientific computing, and programming in Matlab, Julia, or Python.

Biodesign: Research in engineering design for health

Biomass transformation

By means of using MOF-type catalysts, biomass will be transformed into value-added products, for which various chemical processes will be carried out, in which the obtained products can be characterized.

Deep learning based super resolution reconstruction for high resolution coronary magnetic resonance angiography

Coronary artery disease is currently diagnosed with X-ray or computed tomography coronary angiography (CTCA). However, both modalities expose patients to ionising radiation and iodinated contrast agents (CA). We have developed an alternative approach, coronary magnetic resonance angiography (CMRA), which is non-invasive, does not require the injection of CA and is free of radiation. Our 3D CMRA technique is approaching the resolution of CTCA but still requires a 10-minute scan. To further shorten the scan time to <1 minute and match the resolution of CTCA (0.6mm3), we propose to investigate novel deep learning based super resolution (SR) image reconstruction networks. The work will include a systematic literature review and the implementation of the most promising SR networks. We have a large clinical dataset of CMRA/CTCA data that can be used for training, testing and validation. It would be useful to know about the fundamentals of artificial intelligence.

Acquisition, reconstruction and motion correction for 3D whole-heart Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an important non-invasive tool for risk assessment and treatment monitoring of cardiovascular disease. In comparison to other imaging modalities (ultrasound, x-ray and computed tomography) MRI has the advantage of combining excellent soft tissue contrast with high spatial resolution. However, a major limitation of current MRI protocols is that all imaging sequences are acquired sequentially, with different resolution, geometric orientations and breath-hold positions, resulting in long planning and scan times. Moreover, image quality degradation due to respiratory and cardiac motion are major challenges that greatly affect the accuracy and reproducibility of cardiac MRI. This research includes the development of novel whole-heart 3D MRI sequences, motion compensation techniques and deep learning methods to enable 3D, easy-to-plan, fast and efficient quantitative multi-parametric MRI of heart and vessels. The research is done together with King’s College London. Basic knowledge of MRI, signal processing and artificial intelligence would be useful.

Off-resonance correction for Echo Planar Imaging

Software development for Open Source Hardware documentation formats

This is a paid position for an open software development project to further develop the DocuBricks (https://docubricks.com/software.jsp) documentation editor and and standard format, specialised for Open Hardware instrumentation in science laboratories. The development includes developing a JS editor to work in the Eletron framework; to create a conversion tool between GitBuilding (https://gitbuilding.io/) and DocuBricks; as well as a GitHub resource development. https://forum.openhardware.science/t/software-for-making-assembly-manuals/2970/20?u=tobey

Processing Magnetic Resonance Images of patients with Multiple Sclerosis

Spatiotemporal patterns in ambient air pollution

Ambient air pollution has been analyzed by means of pattern recognition algorithms. Results from different algortihms and input parameters will be compared to establish sensitivity of output results to those different input options. As benchmark, known results from air quality modeling will be used for ambient PM2.5 and PM10 in several cities in Chile.

The R software environment will be used in teh analyses.

Development of MATLAB code for Multiphysics and Multiflow 2D simulation

Using MATLAB and what has been learned in the ICM3800 SND course, the development of a code that simultaneously solves the energy (Fourier), fluid (Navier Stokes) and elasticity (Hooke-Cauchy) equations in a 2D domain should continue. considering at least 2 phases of the same substance or of different substances. The monitoring of the boundary between phases, the pressure and velocity fields must be plotted and analyzed. As an example, we will try to simulate the melting of a candle.

Learning from data: using real-time data to create context and support decisions in offsite construction

Offsite construction is a disruptive strategy where buildings are manufactured in factories and shipped to its destination at a superior quality and shorter schedules. Current design and manufacturing phases generates a significant volume of data from different sources that, if properly combined, presents a great opportunity to identify meaningful insights and improvements for future operations . Hence, this research proposes the application of visualization techniques and the generation of key performance indicators (KPI) to identify production patterns such as workstation’s utilization, queue length, etc. Furthermore, these kpi’s will further address the effect of specific project attributes during the manufacturing process. An overall assessment is performed, and suggestions are made for future applications in offsite construction. This research will utilize an offsite construction facility in Alberta, Canada as case study where large sets of data containing the durations and characteristics of the manufactured panels will be provided.

Cellular Automata + Neural Networks + Visualization

Los automatas celulares son modelos que evolucionan por reglas locales, que incluyen el famoso "Conway game of life". La idea de la ipre es desarrollar esta herramienta en conjunto con redes neuronales.

Empezaremos con entender la creacion de automatas celulares auto-regenerantes por redes neuronales, ver este paper: https://distill.pub/2020/growing-ca/

Sucesivamente, el objetivo es desarrollar mas herramientas para generacion de patrones similares a las activaciones de neuronas reales, con modelos de automatas celulares aprendidos por redes neuronales, con el enfoque en hacer posible la exploracion visual directa de modelos de aprendizaje y memoria para el usuario.

Para esta investigacion se necesitan bases de teoria de redes neuronales, y curiosidad de entender el proceso de aprendizaje por inteligencia artificial. Un interes previo en cosas como automatas celulares, neurociencia o patrones geometricos, hara el avance del proyecto mas facil.

Teaching in hydrogeology: technological and visual resources for a greater immersion

Modelling heat transfer during the storage of hydrogen in activated carbon

Graph Neural Networks for molecules

Graph-based deep learning models have recently surpassed other classical methods in computational chemistry for searching for molecules with specific properties, such as drugs and bioprocess catalysts. The goal of IPRE is to develop neural networks on graphs to calculate the optimal fit of molecule pairs from a database. It's not necessary to start from scratch with neural networks to make smooth progress, and it's useful for those with a passion for tackling difficult problems with combinatorial and geometric aspects.

Robotics Mechanism Design

design of robotic mechanisms using of electromechanic, pneumatic, or hydraulic actuators, with computer motion control. Examples are robotic arms, autonomous vehicles, intelligent prostheses, energy systems, etc. These mechanisms will be fabricated by technologies such as 3D Printing, CNC, and fiberglass reinforced plastics

Computational creativity in generative networks for audio

Application of a reactive plasma for the manufacture of micro-devices: solar cells and transistors

This undergraduate research project is centered around the application of Reactive Ion Etching (RIE) plasma technology, a highly specialized and controlled form of plasma, for the fabrication of micro-devices, with a primary focus on solar cells and transistors. RIE is known for its precision in material removal and modification at the micro and nanoscale, making it a crucial tool in advanced semiconductor manufacturing.

Estudo del contenido de furano en colados para bebes comercializados en Chile

El furano es un compuesto tóxico que se genera en una gran variedad de alimentos que son sometidos a calentamiento térmico y su formación depende también de la composición de las materias primas iniciales. Estudios previos indican que uno de los alimentos en donde se presentan cantidades significativas de furano son los colados para bebe. El estudio consiste en hacer un levantamiento del contenido de furano de una gran variedad de colados para bebe que se comercializan normalmente en el mercado de Chile. La determinación de furano presente en los colados para bebés en el mercado Chileno es importante para conocer en qué grado están presentes en este tipo de aimento y de acuerdo a ello desarrollar tecnologías para su mitigación.

Caracterización de diversos tipos de harinas en base a sus contenidos de precursores y potencialidad para formar acrilamida

Las harinas principalmente provenientes de trigo, se emplean para elaborar productos de panadería a través del horneado que implica el empleo de altas temperaturas de procesamiento (mayores a 180 °C). La composición química de las harinas en relación a sus contenidos de precursores (contenido de azúcares reductores y asparagina) son claves para la formación inevitable e indeseada de compuestos tóxicos tales como la acrilamida (AA) en los productos de panadería resultantes como resultado la Reacción de Maillard (RM) durante el horneado. Se ha demostrado que en materias primas amiláceas a base de cereales, el precursor limitante para la formación de AA por RM en productos de panadería es la asparagina. El objetivo principal de este estudio es caracterizar diversos tipos de harinas en función de su contenido de azúcares reductoras y asparagina, y por evaluar su eventual potencial para formar AA en productos de panadería.

Efecto del extracto de romero (E-392) sobre la mitigación de neo-contaminantes en productos horneados

Los productos de panadería tales como pan y galletas son ampliamente consumidos a nivel mundial. Estos productos durante su elaboración se someten a un tratamiento térmico riguroso durante el horneado, originando la formación indeseada e inevitable de compuestos tóxicos conocidos como neo-contaminantes (NCs) (e.g., acrilamida (AA), el furano e hidroximetilfurfural (HMF)). Sin embargo, el horneado, contribuye también al desarrollo de atributos sensoriales deseables y atractivos al consumidor en este tipo de productos. En varias ocasiones, el uso de antioxidantes naturales presentes en extractos derivados de matrices vegetales han logrado exitosamente mitigar la formación de AA y HMF. El objetivo de este estudio es mitigar la formación de NCs en productos de panadería mediante la incorporación de un extracto antioxidante de romero (E-392).

Design and Fabrication of a Three-Motor Dicing System for Precision Cutting of Silicon Wafers and Electronic Circuits

The project proposal seeks to design and implement a dicing system, intended for the precise cutting of silicon parts and electronic circuits. The project will incorporate three independent motors to ensure greater precision and versatility in cuts. Key aspects will be addressed such as process automation, efficiency in the handling of delicate materials and the integration of advanced technologies to improve the quality of electronic devices manufactured in the UC clean room. This project will provide students with valuable hands-on experience in the application of manufacturing techniques from the semiconductor industry.

2D Material Manipulation for the Manufacturing of Electronic Devices

Are you passionate about materials science and nanotechnology? Are you looking for hands-on experience in cutting-edge research? Here is an exciting opportunity for you!

We are pleased to announce a research opportunity for undergraduate students interested in exploring the fascinating world of 2D material heterostructures using the Stamping transfer technique.

This research project offers:

An immersive experience in the field of nanomaterials and their applications.
Practical training in unique experimental techniques.
Collaboration with experienced researchers and academic mentors.

Previous research experience is not required, but a strong interest in materials science and desire to learn is essential. This opportunity is open to undergraduate students (ideally second year or above).

Numerical hydrogeolocial modelling of Parque Nacional Rio Clarillo (RM)

Numerically model (MODFLOW) groundwater runoff in the Río Clarillo National Park (RM).
Determine the resilience of subbasins to drought.

Memory and knowledge: mapping civic knowledge to improve hydrological and hydrogeological knowledge

Compile the community's knowledge about the hydrological state and its evolution over time (perennial and intermittent rivers, water outcrops).
Map this knowledge in GIS tools (QGIS, Google Earth)
Site study: Parque Nacional del Río Clarillo (RM)

Reducción del contenido de acrilamida en snacks mediante la aplicación de la enzima asparaginasa comercial (ACRYLAWAY)

Los productos amiláceos procesados a altas temperaturas tales como las que se aplican en operaciones unitarias como el horneado y la fritura (papas fritas, pan, galletas, entre otros) son ampliamente consumidos en Chile y a nivel mundial. En este tipo de productos alimentarios debido a su composición química y al ser sometidos a un procesamiento térmico riguroso, se generan inevitablemente compuestos químicos tóxicos indeseables y perjudiciales para la salud, tales como la acrilamida (AA). La AA  se caracteriza por ser un compuesto neurotóxico y probablemente cancerígeno en humanos. La enzima asparaginasa actúa sobre la asparagina que es uno de los principales precursores de la AA en este tipo de producto, convirtiéndola en ácido aspártico y reduciendo así significativamente la formación de AA en los productos finales. El principal objetivo de esta investigación es mitigar la formación AA en snacks mediante la optimización de las condiciones de aplicación de la asparaginasa comercial.

Design and arrangement of a MVP of an open source microfluidics instrument for pressure driven droplet generation.

We have already released a digitally-fabricated microfluidics strobe microscope (https://wenzel-lab.github.io/strobe-enhanced-microscopy-stage/) but many extensions are still at a prototyping stage (e.g. https://github.com/wenzel-lab/modular-microfluidics-workstation-controller) and need to be integrated into a clean, attractive design that is suitable for the use in a biological safety level 2 laboratory. We also develop detailed documentations for replication, and training material for teaching and research.

Brain Imaging Low Cost MRI scanner

Low-cost MRI for brain imaging

Bioremediation

Development of biological systems for the treatment of contaminants.

Biofilms

Study of microbial biofilms

Portability of REmatch library to other programming languages

REmatch is a library for extracting information from text documents using regular expressions (see more at www.rematch.cl). REmatch is implemented in C++ and can be used on its web interface, as well as on its Python interface. Unfortunately, REmatch is not supported in other programming languages ​​such as Javascript, Java, or C#.

For this research project we look for supporting REmatch in other programming languages. For this work you will need to learn the internals of REmatch (implemented in C++), learn how to use libraries in other programming languages, and use tools to access C++ code from these programming languages. As a result of this investigation, we look for the portability of REmatch to other programming languages.

No-Show y recalendarización en tratamientos médicos

This research aims to explicitly incorporate patient no-show probabilities into stochastic modeling frameworks designed to support appointment scheduling and rescheduling decisions. In particular, the study seeks to account for the uncertainty associated with actual patient attendance and to leverage this information to design policies that improve resource utilization and overall service performance.

Structural Modeling for the Design of Light Steel Panel Connections (Cold-Formed Steel or Light Steel Frame)

Applications are now open to participate in a research project focused on the structural design and modeling of connections for light steel construction systems. This project aims to optimize the structural performance of light steel panels, addressing both technical requirements and considerations of cost and construction productivity.

Linear Modeling of Timber Structures: Analysis of the Effect of Finish Panels on Structural Design

This project offers undergraduate students the opportunity to investigate the structural behavior of timber buildings, focusing on the impact of finish panels on the overall response of the structures. Through linear structural modeling, the student will explore how these panels influence the strength and stability of timber systems. Additionally, the student will learn to design timber structures using commercial structural modeling software, participate in the writing of scientific articles, and gain basic knowledge of structural cost estimation. Recommended: background in structural design and modeling (experience in timber design and linear analysis is desirable).

Evaluation of the Behavior of Concrete/Wood Joints for the Fabrication of Concrete-Wood Composites Using Adhesive

This research project aims to optimize the adhesion between prefabricated concrete elements and wood panels by exploring different surface finishes and adhesives. Focused on the interaction between materials, the study will enhance the structural and economic performance of concrete-wood composite systems, which hold strong potential for sustainable and resilient construction. Students will need basic knowledge of concrete, structural design, and cost estimation, and will develop skills in cost-performance evaluations of surface finishes. The research involves 3D printing of concrete formworks and the design of laboratory experiments, supported by advanced structural modeling tools, fostering practical and analytical skills in composite materials.

Fragility Curves and Mitigation Strategies for Timber Structures under Earthquakes and Tsunamis

This project aims to develop fragility curves for timber structures built either formally or informally, considering multiple hazards such as earthquakes and tsunamis. It will also evaluate specific mitigation measures for each hazard, analyzing potential synergies and conflicts between them. Desired: experience in numerical modeling and knowledge of construction systems. The student will learn how to develop fragility curves (probability of damage vs. hazard intensity), perform linear and nonlinear structural modeling, and formulate strategies to optimize the performance of these structures under multi-hazard scenarios.

Mine and analyze memory bugs in Python

Have you ever encountered memory errors in Python and wondered how to fix them? Would you like to discover how other developers approach these issues?

In this research project, you'll explore memory errors in Python using real-world software projects. Using data mining techniques, you'll analyze code repositories to discover:
- Which types of memory errors are most common,
- In what contexts they appear,
- And what strategies developers use to fix them.

During the project, you will:
- Program to collect and process real-world data,
- Classify errors and solutions using well-defined criteria,
- Identify patterns and best practices,
- And produce a report with findings that can help improve the performance of real-world applications.

Fungal-based alternatives: from new foods to biomaterials

From sheet music to object-centric event logs.

This research aims to explore the conversion of standard sheet music files in MusicXML (MXML) format into Object-Centric Event Logs (OCEL). We propose developing a tool to automate the extraction of information from musical scores and transform it into an event log compliant with the OCEL 2.0 standard. Implementing this tool will enable the analysis of musical pieces from a process-oriented perspective, opening new possibilities for the structured study of music through process mining techniques and data analysis.

CO2 Emissions quotas in the Climate Change Framework Law

La Ley 21455 - Ley Marco de Camblio Climatico - Art. 5(b) define “ Presupuestos sectoriales de emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero al año 2030 asignados a los sectores señalados en el artículo 8°, de acuerdo a criterios de costo efectividad y equidad.” Esto se logra a traves de normas de emision para cada sector.
Esta investigacion indaga en como aterrizar estos conceptos considerando los dos criterios, y cuanto pueden cambiar los presupuestos segun qué criterio se considere.

Asignar los presupuestos es vital para que cada sector defina sus esfuerzos de mitigacion. El resultado de la investigacion puede ayudar a la politica publica. Ideal que hayan cursado ICS3742. (esta oportunidad se ofrece en 5 o 10 créditos)

Electrification and Restoration Study of the UC East Campus Organ

The UC Campus Oriente organ, a historic instrument whose original pneumatic action has been completely destroyed, poses a technical and heritage challenge. This project seeks to conduct a preliminary feasibility study for its electrification, exploring the use of solenoids to open the secret valves that allow air to pass through, replacing the damaged original mechanisms. The study will include a technical analysis of possible solutions and the conceptual design of the electrical system, with a view to restoring its functionality and opening new possibilities for technological and musical experimentation. This research represents a unique opportunity to integrate electrical engineering knowledge with the preservation and modernization of an emblematic musical instrument. Professors: Rodrigo Cádiz (Engineering and Music), Patricio de la Cuadra (Engineering and Music), José Manuel Izquierdo (Music).

Efecto integrado de la asparaginasa y el extracto de romero en la mitigación de neo-contaminantes en snacks

Los snacks como chips de papa frita y galletas saladas son consumidos mundialmente. Durante su elaboración, los tratamientos térmicos (e.g., fritura, horneado) generan inevitablemente neo-contaminantes (NCs) como acrilamida (AA) y hidroximetilfurfural (HMF). Sin embargo, estos procesos también desarrollan atributos sensoriales atractivos para los consumidores. La AA es un compuesto neurotóxico y probablemente cancerígeno en humanos. La enzima asparaginasa reduce su formación al convertir la asparagina, precursor clave en la reacción de Maillard, en ácido aspártico. Además, antioxidantes naturales presentes en extractos vegetales han demostrado mitigar simultáneamente la formación de AA y HMF. El objetivo de este estudio es evaluar la reducción simultánea de NCs en snacks mediante la aplicación combinada de asparaginasa y un extracto antioxidante de romero (E-392).

La investigación, en colaboración con el Dr. Bemit Crespin (Universidad de Limoges), requiere un estudiante con experiencia en C/C++, Python, gráficos por computadora y computación GPU.

Computational tools to correlate [Attention <--> Learning] in 12-month-old infants

In this IPRE study, we will use electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings from 12-month-old children to quantify their ability to focus on a voice using language directed at toddlers when multiple voices are present (a situation children experience in supermarkets, subways, and playgrounds). In collaboration with the Cognitive Neuroscience Lab at UC, coordinated by Marcela Pena, we will evaluate how brain activity adapts to the infant's preferred voice and how this contributes to learning new words.

Advanced Numerical Modeling and Materials Analysis

Are you ready to tackle cutting-edge challenges in computational engineering and materials science? Join our dynamic research team to develop innovative techniques that combine voxel-based finite element methods (V-FEM) with powerful computational tools, advancing applications in medical engineering, materials science, and mechanical systems.

Voxel-based finite element methods leverage high-resolution image data to create precise models of complex structures, enabling unprecedented accuracy in simulations. These approaches find critical applications in medical fields, such as bone mechanics and implant design, and in materials science, where understanding microstructural behavior is essential for innovation.

Optimizing Bacterial Self-Healing in Concrete: Encapsulation vs. Direct Addition for Enhanced Performance

This research explores the innovative autonomous self-healing approach in concrete, which incorporates bacteria to enable self-repair of cracks. The focus is on evaluating two primary methods: direct addition of bacteria to the concrete mixture and encapsulation of bacteria within microcapsules.

In the direct addition method, bacteria and nutrients such as calcium lactate are embedded into the concrete. When cracks form and water seeps in, the bacteria activate and convert nutrients into calcium carbonate (CaCO₃), effectively sealing the cracks. The encapsulation method, on the other hand, uses microcapsules containing bacteria, which rupture upon crack formation to release healing agents that repair the damage.

This research explores the innovative use of bacteria for autonomous self-healing in concrete. It evaluates two main methods: direct addition of bacteria to the concrete mix and encapsulation in microcapsules.

Direct addition activates bacteria upon water ingress to produce calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) and seal cracks, while encapsulation releases repair agents when microcaps

Monitoring Seismicity in Front of the Juan Fernández Ridge

Liquid-liquid extraction processes

Different extraction processes will be studied, from molecules from bio-oil to aromas from fermentation by liquid-liquid extraction. Measurements of density and viscosity of the solute + solvent mixture will be taken. The liquid-liquid equilibrium phases will be analyzed by gas chromatography, so students will learn how to prepare samples for this technique.

Decision Diagram based algorithm for discrete optimization

The use of Decision Diagrams (DDs) to solve optimization problems with discrete variables will be investigated. The first few weeks will be devoted to studying the use of DDs in optimization by using the textbook "Decision Diagrams for Discrete Optimization" and replicating some experiments using existing DD code in Python. Students will then develop a research project using these tools from a list of topics designated by the instructor (e.g., combining Gurobi with DDs, using DDs to solve novel problems, analyzing and comparing different ways of constructing DDs, etc.). We are looking for students who enjoy programming in Python (or C++) and are interested in optimization topics. It is desirable to have taken or be taking Advanced Programming, Optimization Methods, Discrete Math, and/or advanced courses related to optimization/programming.

Cómo afecta la secuencia y tipo de cursos de capacitation al desempeño de colegios vulnerables: El caso de Aptus.

La Fundación Aptus se encarga de apoyar y dar formación a colegios vulnerables en Chile, formando a profesores y Directores. La pregunta de investigación es: ¿Si la secuencia y selección de cursos de formación tiene un efecto sobre el desempeño final del colegio? Se utilizará la información disponible de la fundación y aplicarán modelos de minería de procesos y econométricos para demostrar causalidades.

Chrono-Nutrition: A Study on Biological Rhythms and Eating Patterns

Recent research highlights the importance of chrono-nutrition, which studies how the timing of food intake affects health and performance. However, understanding these effects can be challenging due to the complexity of interactions between the internal biological clock and eating habits. With this in mind, we are looking for students interested in learning and applying mathematical modeling tools to develop a predictive system for chrono-nutrition. Participants will collect chronobiology and nutrition data to build mathematical models capable of predicting the effects of chrono-nutrition on health and performance.

Optimización de procesos de selección en una exportadora

Se analizará y desarrollará un algoritmo para la asignación de personal a las bocas de salida de una máquina de selección automática de fruta. Se evaluará el beneficio de contar con mejor información de la condición de recepción de la fruta en packing.

Referencias:
• Nesterov, Y., Spokoiny, V. Random Gradient-Free Minimization of Convex Functions. Found Comput Math 17, 527–566 (2017)
• Diakonikolas J., Guzmán C.: Optimization on a Finer Scale: Bounded Local Subgradient Variation Perspective. ArXiv:2403.16317 (2024)

Data processing to measure infants' attention from their EEG

An important and underexplored research direction in the study of human learning (with implications for the broader question of what intelligence is, including in AI) is the investigation of early development of attention to language. This project proposes to process EEG (electroencephalogram) recordings from infants collected at the Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory led by Prof. Marcela Peña, with the aim of measuring attentional resources directed toward different spoken stimuli.

To achieve this, a Python-based pipeline will be developed to analyze the EEG signal spectrum. The signals will be decomposed by frequency and partitioned into bands guided by cognitive theory, and correlations between their amplitude and the auditory stimulus presented to the infant will be measured to quantify attention.

For prerequisites and further details, please consult the supervising professors.

Exploring environmental data for observing salt intrusion in rivers and estuaries

Statistical analysis of beach evolution in the central region of Chile

Using decadal time series of shoreline evolution, their potential relationships with oceanographic, hydrological, and climatic forcing will be studied in order to understand the processes that may explain their behavior.
Statistical methods will be applied for the analysis of time series.

Design and implementation of educational laboratory experiments in Fluid Dynamics

The goal is to design some educational experiments for the Fluid Mechanics ICH1104 course in open channels. Mechanical components will be developed for the generation, control, and measurement of surface waves in open channels. Additionally, image-based measurement techniques will be implemented to characterize transport phenomena in open channels.