My name is Cristian Villalobos (1994, Chile). Since adolescence, I have been captivated by physics, which led me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in physics at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso. During my studies, I developed a fascination for science in general, particularly the experimental aspect of scientific research. I went on to complete a master’s degree in physics at the same institution, focusing on granular matter and studying crater formation in microgravity environments. Toward the end of my master’s program, I presented my work at a granular and active matter conference, where I discovered the field of active matter—an interdisciplinary area that combines soft matter physics with biology and chemistry, which I believe represents the future of science. Inspired by this discovery, I decided to pursue a PhD in Physics at the University of Chile, focusing on the behavior and transport properties of bacterial suspensions under confinement.

In the final year of my PhD, I came across an email from Dr. Laura Alvarez about a postdoctoral project that perfectly combined physics and bio-inspired systems. Now, I am part of her group, studying the shape fluctuations of lipid vesicles under different types of interactions, including chemical and electrostatic forces.

Outside of my passion for science, skateboarding has been a significant part of my life. I believe it has indirectly taught me the patience, creativity, and resilience essential for experimental science.