Laura Gallardo is a professor at the University of Chile's geophysics department and was the founding director of the Center of Excellence for Climate and Resilience Research. She holds a PhD in chemical meteorology from Stockholm University and has held several key research and advisory positions since returning to Chile in 1997. Her work centers on atmospheric modeling, air quality, and climate forcers, with published pieces in leading journals and leadership in South American and international research networks. Gallardo has served in scientific committees including IGAC, iCACGP (as vice-president), IAMAS (as vice-president), SOLAS, and currently advises the Global Atmospheric Watch Programme. She was elected vice-chair of the IPCC’s seventh assessment report.