Neha Verma | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Neha Verma | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Sharda University | India

Neha Verma is a dedicated biotechnology researcher currently pursuing her Ph.D. at Sharda University, research experience in molecular biology, cell culture, spectroscopy, and bioinformatics. She has significantly contributed to cancer and osteoporosis research, with numerous publications in reputed journals and several patents to her credit. Her expertise encompasses a range of technical proficiencies including FACS, RT-PCR, HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, NMR, FT-IR, and advanced microscopy. She has actively participated in multiple national and international conferences and workshops, earning recognition for her work. She has co-authored book chapters with reputed publishers like Elsevier and is the recipient of prestigious awards such as Best Oral Presentation, Best Research Scholar, Silver Medal, and Young Scientist Award. Neha’s research blends experimental biology with computational techniques, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach. With a commitment to innovation and translational research, she aims to make meaningful contributions to biomedical sciences through novel therapeutic strategies.

Profile

Googlescholar

 Education

Neha Verma has built a strong academic foundation in the life sciences and biotechnology domain. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Biotechnology with coursework from the Department of Life Sciences at Sharda University, where her research involves a multidisciplinary approach combining cell culturing, phytochemical analysis, and bioinformatics modeling. Prior to this, she earned her M.Sc. in Biotechnology from Himalayan University, where she developed core competencies in laboratory techniques and research methodologies. She began her academic journey with a B.Sc. in Life Sciences, which laid the groundwork for her interest in molecular biology and biochemistry. Throughout her education, she has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, contributing to scientific publications, attending scientific forums, and actively engaging in workshops and webinars related to spectroscopy, AI tools in science, and genetic disorders. Her academic path reflects a progressive learning trajectory that aligns closely with her current research goals and future aspirations in translational biotechnology

Experience

Neha Verma possesses over five years of extensive hands-on research experience in biotechnology, particularly in molecular biology, animal cell culturing, and the isolation and application of plant-based bioactives. Her professional exposure spans several advanced analytical and spectroscopic platforms such as HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, NMR, and FT-IR, used primarily for metabolite profiling and compound identification. She has worked on osteogenic differentiation and anticancer studies using plant extracts, evidenced by her co-authorship on high-impact journal articles and patented innovations. She has cultivated skills in experimental planning, data analysis using GraphPad and Excel, and bioinformatics tools like molecular docking and Swiss target prediction. Neha has participated in several high-end workshops funded by DST-SERB and DBT, as well as training programs on good laboratory practices and 3D cell culture technology. Her experience also includes contributing to international book chapters and conference presentations, showcasing her commitment to knowledge dissemination and interdisciplinary research collaboration.

Awards and Honors

Neha Verma has earned multiple prestigious awards recognizing her research excellence and scientific contributions. She received the Best Oral Presentation Award at a DBT-funded National Conference focused on Disease Diagnosis and Drug Development.  she was honored with the Best Research Scholar Award at the 6th International Conference on Cutting-edge Solutions in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Humanities. Her achievements also include receiving the Silver Medal at the 8th Annual Meeting of the International Association of Zoologists and the 5th International Conference on Recent Trends in Life Sciences and Biotechnology. Additionally, she was conferred the Young Scientist Award at the 4th Annual Meeting of the International Association of Zoologists. These accolades reflect her sustained efforts in innovative biotechnology research, her impactful presentations at scientific forums, and her leadership in driving translational outcomes. Her work in cancer and osteoporosis research has consistently gained academic and peer recognition.

Research Focus

Neha Verma’s research is centered on biotechnology applications in cancer and osteoporosis, particularly through the use of plant-derived bioactive compounds. She investigates the therapeutic potential of phytochemicals on osteogenic differentiation and anticancer activity, integrating molecular biology techniques like RT-PCR and FACS with spectroscopic tools such as HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, and NMR for compound analysis. Her studies also extend to bioinformatics, where she employs molecular docking and target prediction to elucidate mechanistic pathways. Neha’s scientific approach is highly interdisciplinary, blending traditional ethnopharmacology with modern experimental and computational methods. Her work has led to several granted and published patents focusing on anticancer and anti-osteoporotic agents. With contributions to journals, conferences, and book chapters, she aims to bridge the gap between natural products research and clinical translational outcomes in biotechnology.

Publications

 

Title: Occupational health hazards and wide spectrum of genetic damage by the organic solvent fumes at the workplace: A critical appraisal
Year: 2022
Citations: 10

Title: Recent Update on Active Biological Molecules in Generating the Anticancerous Therapeutic Potential of Garcinia mangostana
Year: 2022
Citations: 9

Title: A review on therapeutic mechanism of medicinal plants against osteoporosis: effects of phytoconstituents
Year: 2023
Citations: 6

Title: Sustainable synthesis of magnetic nanoparticles: biological applications of Cedrus deodara extract
Year: 2025
Citations: 1

Conclusion

Neha Verma is an accomplished biotechnology researcher whose interdisciplinary expertise, impactful publications, patents, and awards reflect her commitment to advancing therapeutic innovations in cancer and osteoporosis through integrated experimental and computational approaches.

Buyani Ndlovu | Molecular and Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Buyani Ndlovu | Molecular and Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Buyani Ndlovu is a South African research scientist specializing in molecular biology, biotechnology, and microbiology. With a Ph.D. from the University of Cape Town, his groundbreaking doctoral work focused on developing plant-produced mRNA vaccines and novel expression vectors against avian viral diseases. Over the past decade, Buyani has honed a robust repertoire of molecular techniques and contributed significantly to academic research, teaching, and mentorship. He has held roles ranging from Research Scientist at Roche DIA to academic tutor and seminar organiser at UCT. His passion for scientific innovation is matched by his commitment to student development and community leadership. Through multiple scholarships and peer-reviewed publications, Buyani has demonstrated his academic excellence and research prowess. His work has been presented at numerous national and international conferences, highlighting his impact in both academia and applied science. A dedicated professional, he continues to push boundaries in vaccine research and recombinant protein expression technologies.

Profile

🎓 Education

Buyani Ndlovu holds a Ph.D. in Molecular & Cell Biology from the University of Cape Town, where he developed novel plant expression vectors and a plant-produced mRNA vaccine candidate against beak and feather disease virus. His MSc in Wine Biotechnology from Stellenbosch University focused on the identification and characterization of bacteriocins produced by wine-isolated LAB strains. He also completed a BSc Honours in Cell Biology and a BSc in Biological Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where his undergraduate research investigated seed desiccation sensitivity and shell deformities in abalone. He has consistently secured competitive scholarships throughout his academic journey, including the CSIR-IBS, PRF, and NRF Doctoral Innovation Scholarships. Buyani’s academic background reflects a consistent trajectory of scientific curiosity, methodical investigation, and a multidisciplinary approach to molecular sciences. His academic excellence is further supported by his attendance at international workshops, such as the Oomycete Bioinformatic Training Workshop at Virginia Tech, enhancing his global research perspective.

🧪 Experience

Buyani Ndlovu currently serves as Scientist II at Roche DIA’s Reagent Research and Design department in Cape Town, contributing to enzyme engineering within the MethylSeq 2025 Project. From 2019 to 2024, he worked at the University of Cape Town as a tutor and laboratory demonstrator in molecular and cell biology, guiding students across various academic levels. His professional journey also includes chairing postgraduate seminars and extensive leadership in residence management at multiple universities. His doctoral research involved cloning, sequencing, and gene expression analysis for vaccine development. He has previously worked with Genestwister Africa as a molecular biology intern and served as a laboratory demonstrator at UKZN. His roles have combined scientific innovation with administrative coordination, mentorship, and public speaking. Notably, he also engaged in field research at Kruger National Park and has consistently been involved in organisational roles within academic residences, showcasing strong leadership and interpersonal skills across his career.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Buyani Ndlovu is the recipient of numerous prestigious academic awards and research scholarships. These include the CSIR-IBS Doctoral Scholarship (ZAR 140,000/year), PRF Doctoral Scholarship (ZAR 55,000/year), and UCT Doctoral Scholarship (ZAR 20,000/year) from 2019 to 2022. He was also awarded the NRF Doctoral Innovation Scholarship (ZAR 110,000/year) in 2015–2016. His early academic promise was recognized through the Technology Innovation Agency Scholarship (ZAR 70,000/year) in 2011–2012 and the Cape Biotech Scholarship (ZAR 50,000) in 2010. He received the USDA Travel Award Fellowship and the WhiteSci Travel Award Scheme to present his research internationally. In addition to financial accolades, his leadership has been recognized through elected roles in academic and student governance. His continuous recognition by multiple institutions underlines both his scholarly achievements and potential for continued excellence in bioscience innovation. These honors have significantly supported his academic trajectory and helped position him as a leader in molecular research.

🔬 Research Focus

Buyani Ndlovu’s research focus lies at the intersection of molecular biology, biotechnology, and microbiology, particularly in the development of plant-based vaccines and novel gene expression systems. His doctoral research introduced innovative replicating plant virus vectors and a plant-derived mRNA vaccine candidate to combat beak and feather disease virus in parrots. He is experienced in DNA/RNA manipulation, recombinant protein expression in plants, bacteria, and mammalian cells, and molecular assay techniques including PCR, ELISA, and Western blotting. His research has broader implications for low-cost vaccine development and sustainable pharmaceutical manufacturing using plant systems. Buyani has also contributed to plant-pathogen interaction studies, notably with Phytophthora cinnamomi, and is interested in functional genomics and synthetic biology. Currently, his work at Roche DIA involves enzyme engineering for diagnostic technologies. With his foundation in grant writing and research communication, he is well-placed to lead interdisciplinary projects that fuse molecular innovation with public health solutions.

✅ Conclusion

Buyani Ndlovu is a highly skilled research scientist with a rich background in molecular biology and biotechnology, marked by academic excellence, impactful research, and leadership. His contributions to plant-based vaccine development and molecular diagnostics highlight his scientific rigor and innovation. Combining technical proficiency with organizational and mentorship skills, he remains dedicated to advancing health sciences through cutting-edge research and collaborative engagement. With a vision to bridge academic knowledge and societal needs, Buyani aspires to transform lives through science. He stands out as a dynamic professional committed to excellence in research, teaching, and scientific leadership.

Publications

  • Immunogenicity of DNA, mRNA and Subunit Vaccines Against Beak and Feather Disease Virus

    2025-07-17 | Journal article
    CONTRIBUTORS: Buyani Ndlovu; Albertha R. van Zyl; Dirk Verwoerd; Edward P. Rybicki; Inga I. Hitzerot

  • Generation of composite Persea americana (Mill.) (avocado) plants: A proof-of-concept-study

    PLOS ONE
    2017-10-20 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185896
    Part ofISSN: 1932-6203
    CONTRIBUTORS: S. Ashok Prabhu; Buyani Ndlovu; Juanita Engelbrecht; Noelani van den Berg

  • Screening, identification and characterization of bacteriocins produced by wine-isolated LAB strains

    Journal of Applied Microbiology
    2015-04 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1111/jam.12752
    Part of ISSN: 1364-5072
    CONTRIBUTORS: B. Ndlovu; H. Schoeman; C.M.A.P. Franz; M. du Toit

Lekshmi K. Edison | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr.Lekshmi K. Edison | Molecular Biology| Best Researcher Award

 

University of Florida, United States

Profile

Education

She earned her Ph.D. in Biotechnology from the University of Kerala, India, in 2019. Prior to that, she completed a Master’s in Biotechnology from Mahatma Gandhi University in 2006 and an undergraduate degree in Zoology from the same university in 2004. Additionally, she holds a Master’s Diploma in Bioinformatics from Bharathiyar University (2015) and a Diploma in Computer Application from C-Dit, India (2014).

Work experience

She is currently a Postdoctoral Associate at the College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States, a position she has held since 2022. Prior to this, she worked as a Postdoctoral Associate at the College of Medicine, University of Florida, from 2021 to 2022. From 2019 to 2021, she served as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. Earlier in her career, she was a Research Fellow at KSCSTE-JNTBGRI, Palode, Kerala, from 2015 to 2019, and a Project Fellow at the Department of Plant Physiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala, from 2011 to 2013.

Awards

She has received several prestigious honors and awards throughout her career. In 2024, she was awarded the UF Postdoctoral Affairs Spring 2024 Travel Award by the University of Florida and the American Society of Microbiology (ASM) Future Leaders Mentorship Fellowship (FLMF). In 2023, she received the American Society of Virology Postdoctoral Scholar Travel Award. Earlier, she was honored with the Department of Biotechnology-Research Associateship Program Fellowship from the Government of India in 2019. Additionally, she received the Women Scientist’s Back to Lab Research Fellowship from the State Government of Kerala, India, in 2015, and qualified for the National Eligibility Test for Lectureship conducted by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Government of India, in 2014.

 OTHER PROFESSIONAL CREDENTIALS (LICENSURE, CERTIFICATION, ETC)

She has obtained multiple professional certifications and training credentials. In 2024, she completed the HiPerGator Account Training at the University of Florida, along with certifications in NIH Recombinant DNA (rDNA) and Nanoparticle Biosafety/Biosecurity through CITI. She also received training from the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) in areas such as working safely with rabbits and ferrets in biocontainment and working with laboratory rats. In 2023, she completed the Life Sciences Responsible Conduct of Research Course, training on COVID-19 vaccine research, and multiple AALAS certifications, including working with the IACUC and poultry in laboratories. Earlier, in 2021, she acquired certifications in laboratory animal science, pain management in research animals, and post-procedure care for mice and rats.

Book Edited

  •  Pradeep NS, Edison LK (Editors). 2022. Microbial Beta Glucanases – Molecular
    Structure, Functions and Applications. In Book Series: Interdisciplinary
    Biotechnological Advances. Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd., Pages 206. DOI
    https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-19-6466-4, ISBNs 978-981-196465-7 (Hard cover),
    978-981-196466-4 (eBook).

Book chapters

  • Edison LK, Pradeep NS. Isolation of beta-glucanase encoding genes from actinobacterial
    genus Streptomyces spp. and its overexpression in Escherichia coli heterologous system. In:
    Karthik L, ed. Protocols of Actinomycetes: Microbiology to Gene Editing. 1st ed. Boca Raton,
    FL: CRC Press; 2024:Chapter 11. doi:10.1201/9781003398400-11
  • Nair S, Sahay B, Arukha AP, Edison LK, Crews CD, Morris JG Jr, Kariyawasam S,
    Yamamoto JK. Interferon-γ/IL-2 ELISpot and mRNA Responses to the SARS-CoV2, Feline
    Coronavirus Serotypes 1 (FCoV1), and FCoV2 Receptor Binding Domains by the T Cells
    from COVID-19-Vaccinated Humans and FCoV1-Infected Cats. Methods Mol Biol.
    2024;2768:135-151. doi: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3690-9_9.
  • Ragitha VM, Edison LK. Safety issues, environmental impacts, and health effects of
    Biopolymers. In: Thomas S, Ar A, Jose Chirayil C, Thomas B, eds. Handbook of Biopolymers.
    Springer; 2022. doi:10.1007/978-981-16-6603-2_54-1.

Publication