Every March 26, we commemorate the Day of the Physical Engineer, a date to recognize the impact of this discipline on the scientific and technological development of our world. On this occasion, we highlight the career of Professor Lina Marcela Jaller, from the Department of Physics at our University, and explore the history of our Physical Engineering program.

Created through Superior Agreement No. 024 on June 20, 1995, Unicauca’s Physical Engineering program has been a pioneer in Colombia, training highly skilled professionals to apply knowledge of physics, mathematics, and technology to solve real-world problems. Its academic excellence was reaffirmed with the renewal of its Qualified Registry, granted by the Ministry of National Education through Resolution 6518 on August 9, 2011.

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It is important to remember that the University of Cauca was the first institution in Colombia to offer this program, becoming a reference point for other universities such as the National University of Colombia, the Technological University of Pereira, and EAFIT University in Medellín. Therefore, during this celebration of the Day of the Physical Engineer, we find the perfect excuse to highlight the journey of Professor Lina Marcela Jaller, a proudly Unicaucana Physical Engineer and a Master in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology from the University of Barcelona. Lina, a natural-born teacher who has been training future Physical Engineers since 2024, fondly recalls her beginnings:

"My interest in Physical Engineering started back in high school. I always enjoyed recognizing physical phenomena, but beyond Basic Sciences, I was drawn to seeing Physical Engineering in social action—when science, context, and real-world problems come together to create ways to make life easier."

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In addition to her passion for Physical Engineering, Professor Lina balances her daily life through athletics, a sport that once earned her a silver medal in the open category 5K race at the ASCUN National University Games for Staff.

"Athletics, for me, is a lifestyle. My passion began when I saw others practicing it, and from the first day I tried it, I fell in love. Since then, I have tried to practice it the best way possible,"

she shared, emphasizing the love she has developed for the discipline.

Professor Lina Marcela also took the opportunity to share a heartfelt message with her students:

"My Physical Engineering students are the reason why I am at the University. Of course, conducting research is one of my pillars, but without them, many things we do as professors would lose meaning. In the classroom, I always emphasize that passion for what we do is the most important thing. They have recognized Physical Engineering as a profession that merges Basic Sciences with technological processes, allowing us to develop tools that make life kinder. From that perspective, I always remind them that the most important thing is to pursue what truly challenges them."

In line with Professor Lina Marcela's wise words, the University of Cauca celebrates the work of all Physical Engineers, especially those who have passed through our halls of knowledge, whose commitment and expertise continue to transform lives and make dreams come true. Their often quiet work is fundamental to the advancement of science and technology, and on their special day, we recognize their passion for discovery, innovation, and contribution to human progress—while reminding everyone of the importance of balancing research with physical activity, a mix that fosters the well-being we need to keep innovating and contributing to society.

Congratulations to all Physical Engineers! Thank you for your contribution to the world and for pushing the limits.

 

Written by: Center for Communications Management