The Plant Biotechnology research group studies the improvement of the production of bioactive compounds by means of in vitro plant cultivation and genetic engineering.
The Plant Biotechnology group develops biotechnological platforms based on plant cell and organ cultures to produce specialised metabolites of interest in the pharmaceutical, cosmeceutical and nutraceutical industries, as well as plant stem cells for cosmetic and food ingredients, collaborating with companies in their industrial implementation.

Javier Palazon Barandela is a Professor of Plant Physiology at the Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Sciences of the University of Barcelona, with more than 40 years of experience in plant biotechnology research and development. His work focuses on the use of cell cultures and plant organs for the production of specialised metabolites, with applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and nutraceutical industries.
Throughout his career, he has worked extensively on optimising metabolite production and improving in vitro culture techniques, developing innovative methods to increase the efficiency and quality of bioactive compounds. His experience in plant biotechnology has allowed him to lead research projects aimed at harnessing plant cells for the production of high value-added ingredients.
He has worked closely with pharmaceutical and cosmetic companies in the implementation of these processes, contributing significantly to the transfer of technology and the advancement of the industry. He is the author of numerous outstanding scientific publications, which have contributed significantly to the increase of knowledge on plant biotechnology and metabolite production. In addition, he has supervised several doctoral theses and has participated in research projects funded by national and international organisations.
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Javier Palazon Barandela
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Mercedes Bonfill Baldrich
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Diego Alberto Hidalgo Martinez