University research and innovation in agroecological techniques to boost productivity and multidisciplinary technology transfer

Abstract

This research systematizes a 15-year trajectory of scientific work in the field of soil science led by the Department of Chemistry of the Faculty of Science and Technology at the University of Carabobo. The study analyzes the evolution of research lines from their origin in 2010 within the Biochemical Research Laboratory (LIBSA-AMBIOQUIM), progressing from the technical diagnosis of soils degraded by hydrocarbon extraction and heavy metal contamination toward the consolidation of regenerative agroecological solutions with high social impact. Methodologically, the transition from the use of industrial-origin organic amendments, such as lignites and paper mill sludge, to the validation and deployment of microbiological bioinputs directly applied in the field is examined. This process was grounded in the participatory action research (PAR) model, enabling effective linkage between academia and productive sectors. The results report the approval of 13 undergraduate thesis projects between 2021 and 2025, serving as empirical evidence of a successful and replicable technology transfer model. It is concluded that integrating university-driven innovation with territorial needs enables the recovery of ecosystem services in degraded soils while strengthening scientific sovereignty through the training of specialized human talent. This holistic approach ensures that knowledge generated in laboratories is transformed into operational tools for sustainable agriculture, promoting the resilience of agri-food systems and the strategic engagement of the university with Venezuelan society.