Master’s Degree in Hyperbaric and Underwater Medicine
Why this master’s programme?
The Master’s Degree in Hyperbaric and Underwater Medicine
Offers comprehensive and advanced training in the field of medicine applied to altered pressure environments. It is aimed at healthcare professionals interested in expanding their knowledge and skills in the treatment of pathologies related to diving, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and other clinical applications. This program provides a solid theoretical and practical foundation, combining the physiological, technical, and clinical knowledge necessary for patient care in hyperbaric chambers and underwater environments.
Differential Advantages
- Multidisciplinary Training: comprehensive approach to hyperbaric and underwater physiology, pathology, and therapy.
- Hyperbaric Chamber Hands-on Training: real-world experience in equipment operation and patient care.
- Expert Faculty: renowned professionals in the field of hyperbaric and underwater medicine.
- Clinical Focus: practical application of acquired knowledge in the treatment of various pathologies.
- Professional Opportunities: expansion of the Job opportunities in hyperbaric centers, hospitals, and diving-related environments.
- Modality: Online
- Level: Masters
- Hours: 1600 H
- Start date:
Availability: 1 in stock
Who is it aimed at?
- General practitioners and specialists who wish to expand their scope of practice into a constantly growing field with innovative therapeutic applications.
- Nurses and physiotherapists interested in specializing in the management of patients undergoing hyperbaric treatments and in rehabilitation in underwater environments.
- Professional and recreational divers seeking in-depth knowledge of diving physiology and preventive measures against accidents.
- Occupational health and safety professionals involved in underwater activities or high-risk environments requiring specialized training in hyperbaric medicine.
- Researchers and academics wishing to develop research projects in the field of hyperbaric and underwater medicine, with Access to cutting-edge technology and international collaborations.
Training flexibility: Adapted for working professionals: online format with intensive practical sessions, 24/7 access to learning materials, and personalized tutoring.
Objectives and skills

Applying hyperbaric oxygen therapy to various pathologies:
“With certainty, adjusting protocols according to the pathology, monitoring the patient and managing possible complications.”

Assessing and managing risks in hyperbaric and underwater environments:
Implement specific safety protocols for hyperbaric and underwater activities, including emergency plans, decompression procedures, and continuous assessment of environmental conditions, in order to mitigate hazards and ensure the integrity of personnel.

Mastering exploration and diagnostic techniques in underwater medicine:
“Perform a complete underwater medical history, including an assessment of environmental and physiological risks specific to diving.”

Design and supervise safety protocols in professional and recreational diving operations:
“Develop specific emergency plans for each diving scenario, including rescue, evacuation, and communication procedures with external emergency services.”

Directing and coordinating medical teams in hyperbaric chambers:
“Optimize safety and emergency protocols, ensuring adherence to quality standards and minimizing risks to patients and staff.”

Develop innovative research in the field of hyperbaric and underwater medicine:
“To design and conduct rigorous clinical studies, employing cutting-edge technologies to evaluate the efficacy and safety of hyperbaric therapies in various pathologies.”
Study plan – Modules
- Physiological principles of immersion: homeostasis, adaptation to the hyperbaric environment, and compensation mechanisms
- Cardiovascular response under elevated pressure: hemodynamic changes, blood flow redistribution, and autonomic regulation
- Respiratory physiology in hyperbaric environments: gas transport, oxygen solubility, and the effect of partial pressure on tissues
- Metabolic alterations induced by hyperbaric oxygen: oxidative stress, free radical production, and cellular antioxidant mechanisms
- Neurophysiology of diving: gas narcotic phenomena, cerebral decompression, and barotrauma neuropathies
- Mechanisms and advanced management of decompression sickness: pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and hyperbaric treatment protocols
- Advanced clinical indications for hyperbaric oxygen therapy: treatment of chronic wounds, necrotizing infections, and radiation injuries
- Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics in the hyperbaric chamber: drug interactions and dose adjustment under elevated pressures
- Current technologies in underwater medicine: hyperbaric chambers, advanced monitoring systems, and immersion simulators
- Advanced protocols and international standards in hyperbaric and underwater clinical practice, ensuring safety and therapeutic efficacy
- Physiological and biochemical foundations of hyperbaric therapy: tissue oxygenation, effects of hyperoxia, and regulation of vasoconstriction in hypoxemic tissues
- Clinical protocols in hyperbaric medicine: UHMS-approved indications and new experimental applications in chronic wounds, necrotizing infections, and neurological pathologies
- Design and personalization of treatment plans: oxygen dosimetry, therapeutic pressures, exposure times, and number of sessions based on the pathology and individual response
- Advanced management of hyperbaric crises: immediate recognition and treatment of pulmonary barotrauma, cerebral oxygen toxicity, and systemic adverse effects
- Intra- and post-session monitoring: clinical indicators, hemodynamic parameters, and biomarkers of oxidative stress in patients undergoing hyperbaric therapies
- Rescue interventions in Underwater emergencies: protocols for action in decompression incidents, entrapments, and syncope during professional and recreational diving
Multidisciplinary integration in hyperbaric clinical care: collaboration with anesthesiology, surgery, critical care medicine specialists, and functional rehabilitation specialists
Technological advances in hyperbaric chambers: pressurization systems, innovation in biocompatible materials, and energy optimization for prolonged treatments
Ethical and legal aspects in underwater and hyperbaric medicine: informed consent, clinical reports, and management of adverse complications
Research and development in hyperbaric therapies: critical analysis of recent clinical studies, project development, and future perspectives in the field
- Physiological principles of immersion: inert gas kinetics, effects of ambient pressure and lung volume, and the body’s adaptation to hypoxia and hyperoxia.
- Molecular and cellular mechanisms of hyperbaric oxygen therapy: oxygen diffusion, oxidative stress, nitric oxide regulation, and the inflammatory response in ischemic and damaged tissues.
- Pathophysiology of decompression sickness: classification, clinical manifestations, pathophysiology of gas bubbles, and risk prediction models under different diving profiles.
- Advanced indications for hyperbaric therapy: chronic wounds, refractory osteomyelitis, carbon monoxide and cyanide poisoning, compartment syndrome, and tissue transplant support.
- Design and optimization of treatment protocols: individualized pressure and exposure time, decompression gradient strategies, and management
- Therapeutic fraud and contraindications.
- Comprehensive emergency management in underwater environments: advanced airway management, hemodynamic stabilization, cardiopulmonary resuscitation adapted for divers, and prevention of pulmonary edema from immersion.
- Use of hyperbaric chambers: types, operation, technical maintenance, operational safety, and emergency protocols in case of failures or technical complications.
- Pharmacological aspects and toxicology in hyperbaric medicine: drug interactions, oxygen toxicity, and treatment of specific poisonings related to underwater activities.
- Clinical evaluation and advanced monitoring: specific diagnostic tests, post-dive neurological evaluation, biochemical markers of tissue damage, and monitoring of therapeutic response.
- Current research and future perspectives: advances in hyperbaric biotechnology, experimental models, and development of new clinical and safety applications in the field underwater.
- Fundamentals of Integrated Management in Hyperbaric Units and Underwater Operations: Organizational Structures, Operational Flows, and Key Roles
- Applicable National and International Regulations: Clinical Safety Standards, Accreditation of Hyperbaric Centers, and Regulatory Requirements in Underwater Medicine
- Clinical Safety Protocols: Patient Management in Hyperbaric Chambers, Risk Assessment, and Prevention of Iatrogenic Incidents
- Advanced Technical Maintenance Systems: Predictive Maintenance, Inspection, and Calibration of Hyperbaric and Auxiliary Technological Equipment
- Quality Management and Accreditation: Implementation of ISO Management Systems, Internal Audits, Certification, and Continuous Improvement in Hyperbaric Units
- Operational Leadership in Hyperbaric Environments: Managerial Competencies, Management of Multidisciplinary Teams, and Decision-Making in Critical Situations
- Planning and Execution of Safe Underwater Operations: Coordination Interdepartmental coordination, logistics, resource management, and environmental variable control.
Assessment and mitigation of occupational risks: analysis of specific hazards, contingency plans, and correct use of personal protective equipment in chambers and underwater environments.
Technological integration in clinical and operational management: monitoring systems, telemetry, and electronic records of patients and procedures.
Case studies and incident analysis: research methodologies, organizational learning, and design of preventive strategies adapted to hyperbaric and underwater medicine.
- Advanced Fundamentals of Hyperbaric Technologies: Historical Evolution and Physical Principles Applied to Modern Hyperbaric Chambers.
- Monitoring and Control Systems in Hyperbaric Chambers: Integration of Biometric, Pressure, Temperature, and Gas Flow Sensors for Optimizing Therapeutic Sessions.
- Emerging Technologies in Underwater Medicine: Intelligent Diving Devices, Environmental Suits, and Automated Life Support Systems for High-Risk Dives.
- Pathophysiological Patterns and Advanced Management of Hyperbaric Complications: In-depth Study of Decompression Sickness, Oxygen Toxicity, and Barotrauma, with Updated Protocols Based on Recent Clinical Evidence.
- Differential Diagnosis and Specialized Use of Medical Imaging in Hyperbaric Environments: Ultrasound, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and Computed Tomography Adapted to Patients Undergoing Treatment.
- Applied Pharmacology in Hyperbaric and underwater medicine: drug interactions, dosage under elevated pressure, and effects on drug bioavailability.
Advanced emergency and life support protocols in underwater operations: real-time management of crises such as arterial gas embolisms, syncope, and cardiovascular events.
Operational and logistical aspects of high-performance hyperbaric chambers: international regulations, redundant safety systems, predictive maintenance, and risk management in clinical and military facilities.
Innovation in hyperbaric telemedicine: remote monitoring, artificial intelligence for anticipating adverse events, and integrated platforms for real-time clinical data management.
Advanced training and simulation for professionals: use of virtual environments and immersion simulators for training in complication management and optimization of therapeutic procedures.
- Basic principles of hyperbaric physiology: effects of increased pressure on respiration and cellular metabolism
- Mechanisms of gas transport and dissolution in biological tissues under hyperbaric conditions
- Alterations in perfusion and microcirculation induced by hyperbaric environments and their clinical implications
- Inflammatory response and immunomodulation in hyperbaric therapy: molecular and cellular bases
- Pathophysiology of diseases treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy: relative and absolute indications and contraindications
- Advanced protocols in the treatment of chronic wounds, osteomyelitis, and decompression sickness in the underwater setting
- Design and application of multiplace and individual hyperbaric chambers: technical and safety considerations
- Integration of hemodynamic support and advanced monitoring during sessions Hyperbaric therapy in critically ill patients
Evaluation and management of complications associated with hyperbaric therapy: oxygen toxicity, barotrauma, and neurological side effects
Specific protocols for the prevention and treatment of decompression sickness in professional and recreational divers
Diagnostic and monitoring methodologies using imaging and biomarkers in hyperbaric therapies
Advances in clinical and experimental research for the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in neurological, endocrine, and oncological diseases
Legal, ethical, and accreditation considerations in the professional practice of hyperbaric and underwater medicine
Practical application of international regulations and clinical guidelines for hyperbaric therapy facilities in hospitals and environmental settings
Simulation and training in the comprehensive management of patients in hyperbaric and underwater environments: scenarios complex clinical cases
- Innovations in hyperbaric chambers: advanced design, materials, and safety systems for prolonged, high-pressure operations
- Advanced clinical protocols: current indications, contraindications, and individualized treatment plans based on up-to-date scientific evidence
- Application of diving physiology in diagnosis and therapeutic management: hyperbaric effects on tissue oxygenation, gas bubble elimination, and cellular repair
- Multimodal monitoring in hyperbaric therapies: integrated use of biometric sensors, diagnostic imaging, and telemetry for real-time monitoring
- Implementation of artificial intelligence and machine learning systems for treatment optimization and complication prediction
- Comprehensive risk management in underwater medicine: assessment, prevention, and response protocols for complex decompression incidents and accidents Underwater Medicine
Development and updating of multidisciplinary clinical guidelines for emerging pathologies related to hyperbaric and underwater medicine
Regulatory aspects and international accreditations: ISO standards, UHMS recommendations, and quality standards in hyperbaric centers and underwater operations
Advanced training and certification of medical and technical personnel: competencies, critical scenario simulations, and continuous updating
Clinical and administrative-operational management models in hyperbaric chambers: from patient reception to discharge, ensuring quality, safety, and satisfaction
Integration of telemedicine and remote communication systems for real-time support in underwater locations and remote hyperbaric centers
Studies of complex clinical cases and analysis of results, practical application of knowledge for evidence-based decision-making
- Translational research strategies in hyperbaric and underwater medicine: experimental design, ethics, and scientific publications
- Technological innovation in underwater life support equipment: portable systems, biomedical integration, and preventive maintenance protocols
- Multidimensional analysis in comprehensive post-hyperbaric treatment rehabilitation: physical, psychological, and social aspects
- Physiological and biochemical foundations of immersion and exposure to hyperoxia: mechanisms of cellular and tissue adaptation
- Advanced principles of diagnostic imaging in hyperbaric and underwater medicine: magnetic resonance imaging, transcranial Doppler, and Doppler ultrasound
- Comprehensive protocol for the identification and classification of decompression sickness (DDS) and other underwater pathologies
- Practical application of hemodynamic monitoring and tissue oxygenation during hyperbaric treatments: critical parameters and non-invasive techniques
- Combined multimodal therapies: hyperbaric oxygen therapy with specific pharmacology and management of comorbidities
- Design and adaptation of individualized hyperbaric treatment plans based on clinical and environmental variables
- Post-treatment multidisciplinary rehabilitation protocols Hyperbaric: Specialized respiratory, neurological, and muscular physiotherapy
Advanced management of complications and contraindications in hyperbaric medicine: safety criteria and emergency approach
Implementation and evaluation of life support technology during therapeutic dives and underwater emergencies
Comprehensive patient management in hyperbaric medicine units: multidisciplinary coordination, documentation, and quality control
- Physiological Foundations of Immersion: Mechanisms of Adaptation and Response of the Human Body to Environmental Pressure and Hyperbaric Stress
- Advanced Clinical Evaluation: Comprehensive Protocols for Preoperative and Pre-Immersion Assessment, Including Respiratory Function Tests, Hemodynamic Analysis, and Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress
- Differential Diagnosis in Hyperbaric Pathologies: Accurate Identification of Barotrauma, Arterial Gas Embolism, Oxygen Intoxication, and Decompression Sickness
- Diagnostic Imaging in Underwater Environments: Application of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Computed Tomography, and Ultrasonography for Timely Detection of High-Pressure-Related Injuries
- Advanced Protocols for Hemodynamic and Neurological Monitoring During Hyperbaric Treatments: Electroencephalography, Transcranial Doppler, and Tissue Saturation
- Expert Pharmacological Management in Hyperbaric Medicine: Pharmacokinetics under hyperbaric conditions, dosage, interactions, and specific contraindications
- Comprehensive Management Strategies for the treatment of medical emergencies in underwater environments, including advanced life support maneuvers and deep-sea rescue
- Design, implementation, and monitoring of personalized treatment plans in hyperbaric chambers, considering duration, working pressures, and specialized gas mixtures
- Integration of cutting-edge technology: automated monitoring systems, telemedicine, and predictive analytics in the follow-up of hyperbaric patients
- International Standards and Ethical Protocols: compliance with safety standards, quality certifications, and regulations in the field of hyperbaric and underwater medicine
- Applied Clinical Research: design and execution of clinical trials and prospective studies for therapeutic innovation in underwater medicine
- Multidisciplinary approach: effective coordination among hyperbaric physicians, diving technicians, physiotherapists, and sports medicine and rehabilitation specialists
- Prevention and management of late complications and post-treatment sequelae: neurofunctional rehabilitation and long-term follow-up
- Advanced simulations and clinical cases: detailed analysis of complex scenarios and clinical decision-making based on rigorous scientific evidence
- Development and leadership in continuing education programs for professionals in hyperbaric and underwater medicine, promoting excellence and therapeutic innovation
- Theoretical and practical foundations of the Master’s Thesis: definition of objectives, hypotheses, and methodology applied to clinical and technical scenarios in hyperbaric and underwater medicine
- Comprehensive review of innovative technologies in hyperbaric chambers: environmental control systems, advanced patient monitoring, and improvements in the therapeutic atmosphere
- Integration of biomedical devices and sensors in hyperbaric environments: telemetry, real-time physiological recordings, and automated analysis of clinical data
- Application of artificial intelligence and machine learning to optimize treatment protocols and safety in therapeutic dives and underwater activities
- Development and evaluation of integrated management systems for hyperbaric medicine centers: specialized software, interoperability, and electronic patient records
- Risk analysis and applicable international regulations: compliance with ISO standards, UHMS guidelines, and safety protocols in underwater operations
- Innovative proposals in the ergonomic and functional design of chambers and auxiliary equipment to improve operational efficiency and patient comfort
- Advanced virtual simulation and augmented reality models for training, planning, and decision-making in hyperbaric medicine and professional diving
- Quantitative methodologies for evaluating therapeutic efficacy based on biomarkers and specific clinical parameters post-hyperbaric treatment
- Multidisciplinary management of teams and resources: leadership, communication, and continuous improvement focused on patient safety and the optimization of clinical outcomes
- Critical study of complex clinical cases and their resolution using emerging technologies, with an emphasis on interoperability, traceability, and incident analysis
- Advanced scientific writing and professional presentation of results: preparation of technical reports, scientific articles, and oral presentations before evaluation committees
- Strategies for sustainable innovation in hyperbaric and underwater medicine centers: implementation criteria, cost-effectiveness, and Adaptation to changing environments
Final comprehensive evaluation: accreditation criteria, checklist of acquired competencies, and planning of future lines of research and technological development
Career prospects
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- Hyperbaric Physician in Hyperbaric Medicine Centers: Treatment of decompression sickness, slow-healing wounds, carbon monoxide poisoning, and other pathologies.
- Underwater Physician in Professional Diving Activities: Medical assistance in commercial diving operations, rescue, salvage, and underwater construction.
- Medical Consultant in Diving Companies: Advice on safety and hygiene in underwater activities, development of protocols, and risk assessment.
- Physician in Rescue and Salvage Units: Medical care in emergency situations in aquatic and hyperbaric environments.
- Researcher in Hyperbaric and Underwater Physiology and Pathology: Development of research projects in the field of hyperbaric and underwater medicine.
- Lecturer
- In training programs in hyperbaric and underwater medicine: Teaching courses and seminars at universities, training centers, and professional organizations.
- Physician in underwater technology research and development centers: Participation in design and evaluation projects for equipment and systems used in underwater activities.
- Medical advisor to regulatory bodies for underwater activities: Collaboration in the development of regulations and safety standards for professional and recreational diving.
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Entry requirements

Academic/professional profile:
Bachelor’s degree in Nautical Science/Maritime Transport, Naval/Marine Engineering or a related qualification; or proven professional experience on the bridge/in operations.

Language proficiency:
Functional Maritime English (SMCP) recommended for simulations and technical materials.

Documentation:
Updated CV, copy of qualification or seaman’s book, national ID/passport, motivation letter.

Technical requirements (for online):
Device with camera/microphone, stable internet connection, monitor ≥ 24” recommended for ECDIS/Radar-ARPA.
Admissions process and dates

Online
application
(form + documents).

Academic review and interview
Admissions decision

Admissions decision
(+ scholarship offer if applicable).

Place reservation
(deposit) and enrolment.

Induction
(access to the virtual campus, calendars, simulator guides).
Scholarships and financial support
- Delve into Physiology: Master the effects of diving and pressure on the human body.
- Apply Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: Learn to treat various pathologies with protocols based on scientific evidence.
- Acquire Practical Skills: Practice in real hyperbaric chambers and simulated underwater environments.
- Recognized Certification: Earn a qualification that will open doors for you in hyperbaric medicine centers and with professional diving teams.
- Expert Teaching Team: Learn from specialist physicians and professionals with extensive experience in the field.
Testimonials
This master’s degree provided me with a solid theoretical and practical foundation in hyperbaric and underwater medicine. Thanks to the comprehensive training and the excellent teaching staff, I was able to acquire the necessary skills to effectively diagnose and treat various pathologies related to diving and hyperbaric medicine, which allowed me to obtain a position as a specialist physician in a leading hyperbaric medicine unit.
During my Master’s in Health & Maritime Medicine, I gained crucial knowledge in telemedicine and emergency management in offshore environments. I applied these skills directly to my work as a doctor aboard a cargo vessel, improving medical care for the crew and optimizing evacuation protocols, which resulted in a 20% reduction in reported medical incidents during my last contract.
“This Master’s program provided me with the tools and knowledge necessary to lead a rescue diving team in emergency situations. The solid theoretical training and intensive practical experience allowed me to effectively diagnose and treat divers with decompression sickness, helping to save lives and minimize long-term effects. I now feel completely confident and competent in my role.”
“This master’s degree provided me with a solid and practical foundation in hyperbaric and underwater medicine, allowing me to successfully lead a diving emergency response team. My knowledge of the treatment of decompression sickness and other diving-related pathologies has been crucial in saving lives and minimizing long-term effects in patients.”
Frequently asked questions
In a pressurized environment with 100% oxygen.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
In professional diving settings, treatment of decompression sickness, healing of complex wounds, radiation injuries and certain infections.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna University + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
- Theoretical and practical foundations of the Master’s Thesis: definition of objectives, hypotheses, and methodology applied to clinical and technical scenarios in hyperbaric and underwater medicine
- Comprehensive review of innovative technologies in hyperbaric chambers: environmental control systems, advanced patient monitoring, and improvements in the therapeutic atmosphere
- Integration of biomedical devices and sensors in hyperbaric environments: telemetry, real-time physiological recordings, and automated analysis of clinical data
- Application of artificial intelligence and machine learning to optimize treatment protocols and safety in therapeutic dives and underwater activities
- Development and evaluation of integrated management systems for hyperbaric medicine centers: specialized software, interoperability, and electronic patient records
- Risk analysis and applicable international regulations: compliance with ISO standards, UHMS guidelines, and safety protocols in underwater operations
- Innovative proposals in the ergonomic and functional design of chambers and auxiliary equipment to improve operational efficiency and patient comfort
- Advanced virtual simulation and augmented reality models for training, planning, and decision-making in hyperbaric medicine and professional diving
- Quantitative methodologies for evaluating therapeutic efficacy based on biomarkers and specific clinical parameters post-hyperbaric treatment
- Multidisciplinary management of teams and resources: leadership, communication, and continuous improvement focused on patient safety and the optimization of clinical outcomes
- Critical study of complex clinical cases and their resolution using emerging technologies, with an emphasis on interoperability, traceability, and incident analysis
- Advanced scientific writing and professional presentation of results: preparation of technical reports, scientific articles, and oral presentations before evaluation committees
- Strategies for sustainable innovation in hyperbaric and underwater medicine centers: implementation criteria, cost-effectiveness, and Adaptation to changing environments
Final comprehensive evaluation: accreditation criteria, checklist of acquired competencies, and planning of future lines of research and technological development
Request information
Complete the Application Form.
Attach your CV/degree certificate (if you have it to hand).
Indicate your preferred cohort (January/May/September) and whether you would like the hybrid option with simulator sessions.
An academic advisor will contact you within 24–48 hours to guide you through the admission process, scholarships, and compatibility with your professional schedule.
Faculty
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Eng. Tomás Riera
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Full Professor