Universidad Católica de Cuenca | Ecuador
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Early Academic Pursuits 📚
Prof. Dr. María Alejandra Aguirre embarked on her academic journey with a focus on Nutrition and Food Sciences. She completed her undergraduate education at the Catholic University of Cuenca, where she earned her degree in Food Engineering in 2007. Her passion for the field led her to further her studies with a Master's degree in Food Quality from the National University of Education (UNAE) in 2016. She continued to build on this foundation, achieving a PhD in Nutrition and Food Sciences from the University of Granada in March 2023. Her academic training has been marked by a consistent pursuit of knowledge and excellence.
Professional Endeavors 💼
Prof. Aguirre has held various professional roles that reflect her expertise and commitment to nutrition and food sciences. Her career includes significant positions such as Head of the Department of Nutrition at the Catholic University of Cuenca and involvement with the District Directorate of Popular Economy and Solidarity. She has also served as an accredited researcher by SENESCYT (National Secretariat of Higher Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation) and has contributed to numerous projects related to nutritional education and food quality.
Contributions and Research Focus 🔬
Prof. Aguirre’s research primarily revolves around nutritional status, food quality, and public health. Her work includes studies on the impact of dietary habits on the nutritional status of children and the effectiveness of nutrition education programs in indigenous communities. Notable publications include her research on the relationship between fried food consumption and nutritional status in children, and the characterization of complementary feeding practices. Her research is aimed at improving public health outcomes through better nutritional practices and education.
Accolades and Recognition 🏆
Prof. Aguirre has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to the field of nutrition. She was honored with the Honorato Vásquez Award by the University of Azuay as the best graduate. Additionally, her work has been featured in the "Academic Women of Cañar" book, which highlights influential women in academia. Her achievements have been acknowledged through various awards and publications, underscoring her impact in the field.
Impact and Influence 🌍
Prof. Aguirre’s work has had a significant impact on both local and international levels. Her research and publications contribute valuable insights into nutritional practices and public health strategies. Her involvement in community-based projects and educational programs has helped improve dietary habits and health outcomes in various populations, particularly in Ecuador. Her influence extends through her roles as an educator, researcher, and advocate for better nutrition and public health.
Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀
Prof. Aguirre’s legacy is marked by her dedication to advancing knowledge in nutrition and her commitment to improving public health. Her future contributions are likely to continue shaping the field of nutrition through ongoing research, educational initiatives, and community outreach. As she moves forward, her work will likely address emerging nutritional challenges and continue to influence health policies and practices. Her ongoing efforts will further solidify her role as a leading expert in nutrition and food sciences.
Publications
📚Irruption of Network Analysis to Explain Dietary, Psychological and Nutritional Patterns and Metabolic Health Status in Metabolically Healthy and Unhealthy Overweight and Obese University Students: Ecuadorian Case
- Authors: María Alejandra Aguirre-Quezada; María Pilar Aranda-Ramírez
- Journal: Nutrients
- Year: 2024
📚Salud Digital: Un nuevo paradigma en la salud impulsado por la Tecnología, la Educación y el Derecho
- Authors: Mercedes Magdalena Sarmiento Pesántez; Marina Cecilia Andrade Molina; María Alejandra Aguirre Quezada; Rosa Valeria Vázquez Villavicencio
- Book
- Year: 2024
📚Estado Nutricional y Parasitosis en Preescolares
- Author: María Alejandra Aguirre
- Journal: Polo del Conocimiento
- Year: 2018