Prof. Mauricio Barrera is a distinguished chemist whose career spans more than four decades, with major contributions to theoretical chemistry, quantum chemistry, photochemistry, and materials science. His scientific journey began in the mid-1980s, producing foundational work on radical mechanisms and organometallic species.
From 2013 to 2017, he served as Assistant Professor of Theoretical Chemistry at the Pontifical Catholic University of Chile (PUC), where he taught undergraduate and graduate courses, supervised laboratory research, and guided educational visits to industrial chemical facilities.

His career includes long-term collaboration with renowned research groups, particularly in the study of photosensitized systems and quantum chemical modeling.

Research Contributions & Publications

Prof. Barrera has authored over 20 peer-reviewed publications, beginning with pioneering biophysics and radical chemistry papers in the 1980s.
His work covers:

• Quantum Chemistry & Kohn–Sham Theory: First published in 2003, followed by expanded theoretical studies in 2006 and 2010.

• Organometallic Chemistry & Catalysis: Multiple contributions to understanding paramagnetic species and activation mechanisms.

• Photochemistry & Solar Energy: Active participation in a FONDECYT project (2008–2013) focusing on ruthenium dyes for Grätzel-type solar cells.

• Barrera–Crivelli–Loeb (BCL) Model (2016): Development of a theoretical framework enabling molecular-engineering-based analysis of photosensitized solar cells, followed by publications in 2017, 2018, 2022, and 2025.

His sustained publication activity from 1985 to 2025 reflects consistent, long-term academic dedication and innovation.

Industrial Experience

Since 2010, Prof. Barrera has served as founder and technical leader of FOTOCUR, a company dedicated to the production and development of UV coatings and inks for the graphic and wood industries.
This role capitalizes on his multidisciplinary expertise in photoinitiated chemistry, materials formulation, and applied surface technologies, bridging academic research with industrial impact.

International Exposure

Prof. Barrera has engaged in significant international scientific collaboration and training:

• 2010, Johns Hopkins University (USA): Three-week research stage performing IPCE measurements on Ruthenium dyes under Dr. Gerald Meyer.

• 1998, UCB do Brazil (Brazil): Specialized training in UV formulations for industrial coatings.

• 1985, CNRS (France): Three-month research stay performing EPR measurements in Dr. Charles Giannotti’s laboratory.

These experiences strengthened his global scientific presence and facilitated high-impact collaborative publications.

Participation in International Conferences

He has been an active participant and contributor to major scientific congresses for over 15 years, including:

• 6th International Conference on Material Science, Valdivia, Chile (2024)

• 8th and 7th Workshops of Computational Chemistry and Molecular Spectroscopy (2014, 2010, 2008)

• XIV Encounter of Inorganic Chemistry (2012)

• Quantum Chemistry Summer Talks (2011)

• XXVIII Chilean Chemical Society Conferences (2009)

His repeated involvement highlights his standing within the scientific community and his commitment to ongoing scholarly exchange.

Major Scientific Achievements

• Early publications (1985–1989) on radical mechanisms, organometallic species, and quantum chemistry.

• Development of theoretical insights within Kohn–Sham frameworks (2003–2010).

• Collaboration on advanced ruthenium dye photochemistry for solar-cell applications (2008–2013).

• Creation of the Barrera–Crivelli–Loeb (BCL) Model (2016) — a landmark conceptual tool in molecular engineering of photosensitizers.

• Continuous contributions to computational chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and photochemistry over four decades.

Eligibility for the Lifetime Achievement Award

Prof. Mauricio Barrera is honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award in Scientific Laurels in recognition of his more than four decades of pioneering contributions to Theoretical chemistry, quantum chemistry, and photochemistry. His influential body of work—from early studies on radical mechanisms and organometallic species to the development of the Barrera–Crivelli–Loeb (BCL) theoretical model—has significantly advanced the understanding of photosensitized solar cells and molecular engineering. With over twenty high-impact publications, international collaborations across leading institutions, and substantial service as an academic and industrial innovator through the founding of FOTOCUR, Prof. Barrera has exemplified excellence, leadership, and enduring dedication to scientific progress. This award celebrates his remarkable career, global impact, and lasting legacy in the chemical sciences.