Laura Vargas is a Professor of Civil Engineering at Universidad Industrial de Santander. She received her Ph.D. in Structural Engineering from Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile and holds a B.S. in Civil Engineering and an M.Eng. in Structural Engineering from Universidad Industrial de Santander.

Her research integrates experimental testing and advanced numerical modeling to investigate the seismic performance and retrofit strategies for reinforced masonry structures, with particular emphasis on partially grouted reinforced masonry walls. She has participated as a researcher in projects funded by the Chilean National Agency for Research and Development (ANID) related to the development and updating of masonry seismic design provisions, and has contributed to post-earthquake reconnaissance efforts through the StEER network.

Her teaching experience includes undergraduate and graduate courses in structural dynamics, reinforced concrete design, solid mechanics, and special structures at Universidad Industrial de Santander and Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana. She is actively involved in graduate supervision and research-oriented training of civil engineering students.