Micaela María Ricca is a laboratory animal science specialist with over two decades of international experience in research, education, and facility management. She holds a Master’s degree in Laboratory Animal Science and Welfare from the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, FELASA certification (A–D functions), and advanced training through the Institute for Laboratory Animal Management (AALAS, USA).

Currently, she serves as Deputy Director of the Veterinary Department of Ciencia & Vida in Santiago, Chile, where she leads initiatives in animal welfare, training, and infrastructure development. She is also a Governing Board Member of the International Council for Laboratory Animal Science (ICLAS), where she chairs the Americas Regional Committee, fostering educational programs across Latin America.

Her professional trajectory includes leadership roles at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Universidad del Desarrollo, and the Centro de Estudios Científicos de Valdivia, as well as advisory positions in Uruguay, Argentina, and Colombia. She has designed and overseen the planning and implementation of multiple animal facilities, ensuring compliance with international standards of welfare and biosafety.

As educator and speaker, Micaela Ricca has contributed to numerous international conferences and courses on ethics, welfare, and experimental techniques, strengthening the culture of care in research communities across Latin America.