Dr. Vibha Bansal is a Professor of Chemistry at the University of Puerto Rico at Cayey (UPR-Cayey), where she has been engaged in undergraduate teaching, research, and mentoring for more than 15 years. Her interdisciplinary research spans biomaterials, protein science, bioseparations, biosensing, liquid marbles and microreactors, and the development of sustainable alternatives to conventional single-use laboratory plastics. Her recent work includes the development of highly stable and expandable liquid marbles and cellulose acetate microwell plates for high-throughput colorimetric assays. She has established a productive undergraduate research program and has mentored more than 80 undergraduate researchers, many of whom have pursued graduate, medical, and research careers. In addition to her academic and research roles, Dr. Bansal serves as Director of the Office of External Resources and as an Authorized Organizational Representative at UPR-Cayey. She received the University of Puerto Rico Vice President for Research’s Excellence in Research Award in 2025.