Rafael Castillo Barrero is an experienced project manager and researcher specializing in circular economy, sustainable innovation, and industrial symbiosis. He currently holds a leadership role at CorporaciΓ³n TecnolΓ³gica de AndalucΓa (CTA), where he actively manages and coordinates EU-funded projects across key thematic areas including circular economy, energy transition, and sustainable finance.
Rafael plays a prominent role within the Circular Cities and Regions Initiative (CCRI). He serves as the Thematic Working Group (TWG) Leader for Circular Bioeconomy, focusing specifically on the food and feed sectors, where he promotes strategies for scaling circular business models, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge exchange. Additionally, he leads the Industrial Symbiosis and Circular Industries Thematic Working Group, where his efforts center on innovative governance models and strategies to accelerate the transition toward circular value chains through cross-sectoral collaboration and systemic change.
With a strong background in chemical engineering and a PhD in Science and Technology of New Materials (with an international mention and Cum Laude distinction), Rafael has contributed to R&D in both academia and industry. His multidisciplinary expertise spans renewable energy, hydrogen technologies, and biomass valorization. He has also been involved in the coordination and implementation of several European projects under frameworks such as Horizon Europe, Interreg, and COSME.
Rafael is recognized for his analytical thinking, leadership, and proactive approach to solving complex sustainability challenges. Through his roles in CCRI and CTA, he is a key enabler of circular transition processes, particularly in regional ecosystems seeking to innovate in food systems and industrial symbiosis.