Ruben was a PhD student and Postdoctoral Researcher from Ecuador. He earned his B.S. in Chemistry from The University of Tampa.

He developed a Near Infrared Red/ Visible Light/ Ultraviolet light spectrometer to detect aflatoxin and fumonisin in corn. His research goal was to create a sorting platform with a spectrometer capable of removing mycotoxin contaminated corn kernels and minimize food waste while improving food security. Ruben went on to pursue an industry position as a Food Safety Specialist at Mondelez International.

He loves to practice sports, especially soccer, and play videogames with his friends. He is a food lover, and in his leisure, he likes to improve his culinary skills.