Dr. Myra O. Villareal, a Balik Scientist, embarks on her second engagement with Bicol University as a mentor to the BUeños and a resource expert in the field of functional food research. 

Dr. Villareal is a Bicolana Scientist at the Faculty of Life and Environment Sciences of the University of Tsukuba, Japan. Her research includes functional foods and natural products in food and health. 

The Balik Scientist first collaborated with the BU College of Science, through its Dean, Dr. Jocelyn E. Serrano, for short-term engagements from April to November 2022.

Recognizing her impact on the university, she returns for a second term this year. The Balik Scientist Program (BSP), initiated by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), aims to reconnect Filipino Scientists abroad with local academic institutions. Through this program, BU benefited from Dr. Villareal’s knowledge and expertise in the international research landscape. 

Her 180-day engagement will highlight the establishment of a Mammalian Cell Culture at BU, according to DOST-BSP. 

Dr. Villareal is also a Balik Scientist at the University of the Philippines, Los Baños.  | by Arnold C. Noda, MPS 1-CPRO