GeneSoc Alum Fides Z. Tambalo, appointed as new BIOTECH-UPLB Director

Fides Z. Tambalo, newly appointed BIOTECH Director

In pursuit of the development of biotechnological research and education in the country, Ms. Fides Marciana Z. Tambalo, MSc (Operon) was appointed as the new director of the National Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (BIOTECH-UPLB) at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) during the 1383rd Meeting of the UP Board of Regents last August 24, 2023.

Previously an Assistant to the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, Tambalo has dedicated her career to research, training, and practical applications in the fields of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology.

As a university researcher at the institution, she formerly headed the Enzyme Laboratory under the Biotechnology for Food, Feeds, and Specialty Products Program (BFFSPP) wherein one of her research contributions involved the creation of an all-natural colorant known as the MONASCUS RED®. It is a red colorant derived from fungi Monascus purpureus MTCC 25436 created as a safe alternative to synthetic red coloring used for food, cosmetics and pharmaceutics. 

Tambalo was also recognized as one of the leading researchers in the development of eco-friendly agricultural products across the country, such as the use of waste cassava leaves as a potential protein and nutrient source. With her contributions to agricultural research, she was also named one of the 2023 UPLB Outstanding Researchers (Natural Sciences Category) in the Extension Program for Biotechnology for Agriculture and Forestry (BIOTECH-OVCRE) during the 114th Foundation Day held at the Charles Fuller Baker Memorial Hall last March 6, 2023.

Established in 1979, BIOTECH (formerly National Institutes of Biotechnology and Applied Microbiology) has been at the forefront of biotechnological advancements in the Philippines, located inside the Agricultural and Life Sciences Complex at UP Los Baños. The institution is one of the leading research and development hubs for cutting-edge biotechnological research, training, and extension, in the Philippines and Southeast Asia.