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

Ishrat Mahjabeen | Tumor Biomarkers | Best Scholar Award

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Dr. Ishrat Mahjabeen | Tumor Biomarkers | Best Scholar Award

Academician/Research Scholar |COMSATS University Islamabad, Pakistan

Dr. Ishrat Mahjabeen is an accomplished molecular biologist and cancer geneticist currently serving as Associate Professor at COMSATS University Islamabad, with extensive expertise in head and neck cancer, gene regulation, and microRNA biology. She earned her PhD in Cancer Genetics from COMSATS and recently completed a prestigious Fulbright Postdoctoral Fellowship at Brown University, USA. Dr. Mahjabeen has over two decades of research and academic experience, contributing significantly to molecular oncology through her work on base excision repair pathway genes, miRNA dysregulation, and genetic polymorphisms. She has also been an active educator, having supervised numerous undergraduate and graduate students and taught a variety of bioscience courses. Her scholarly contributions include a Springer book chapter and multiple international conference presentations. With a deep commitment to cancer research and academic mentorship, she continues to shape the future of biomedical science in Pakistan and beyond through her innovative work and international collaborations.

Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Ishrat Mahjabeen holds a diverse academic background rooted in biological sciences. She earned her Postdoctoral Research Fellowship (2023–2024) from Brown University, USA, through the esteemed Fulbright Scholarship Program. Her PhD in Cancer Genetics was awarded by COMSATS Institute of Information Technology Islamabad in 2013, where she conducted a thesis on deregulated base excision repair pathway genes and microRNAs in head and neck cancer. Prior to her doctorate, she completed her M.Phil. in Developmental Biology from Quaid-e-Azam University in 2006, focusing on methylcobalamin’s role in sciatic nerve regeneration in rabbits. Her academic journey began with an MSc in Zoology from the University of Arid Agriculture Rawalpindi in 2003, where she explored the impact of temperature on arthropod populations. This strong foundation across developmental biology, zoology, and cancer genetics has equipped her with a multi-dimensional understanding of complex biological systems, enabling her significant contributions to cancer research and biosciences education.

🧪 Experience

Dr. Ishrat Mahjabeen has over 20 years of rich research and academic experience in biosciences and molecular oncology. Since May 2024, she has been serving as Associate Professor at COMSATS University Islamabad, where she previously held the positions of Assistant Professor (2017–2024) and Senior Scientific Officer (2014–2017). Her academic journey began with research fellowships at leading institutions, including the Center for Molecular Biology of Oral Diseases at the University of Illinois at Chicago, Quaid-e-Azam University, and PMAS Arid Agriculture University. She also contributed as an honorary lecturer in Talagang. As a committed educator, she has supervised over 140 students across BS, MS, and PhD levels and has taught advanced courses in molecular biology, research techniques, and biochemistry. Her leadership in academia is marked by dedication to translational cancer research, curriculum development, and capacity building in the life sciences, fostering innovation and scientific rigor among emerging researchers.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Ishrat Mahjabeen has been honored with the prestigious Fulbright Postdoctoral Research Fellowship (2023–2024) at Brown University, USA—an international recognition of her excellence in cancer genetics research. Her academic achievements and research impact have earned her continued faculty promotions within COMSATS University Islamabad, reflecting her contributions to teaching, student mentorship, and scientific leadership. She has received recognition for her work through invited talks and presentations at notable global scientific platforms, including the American Association of Extracellular Vesicles (AAEV 2023) in Boston and multiple international conferences in Turkey and Pakistan. Her chapter contribution in a Springer book on head and neck cancer highlights her thought leadership in molecular oncology. These accolades underscore her pioneering work in cancer biology, particularly in miRNA and gene regulation research, as well as her role in fostering academic excellence and collaborative innovation across borders.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Ishrat Mahjabeen’s research centers on molecular oncology with a focus on genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlying cancer development, particularly head and neck cancers. Her PhD work explored deregulated base excision repair pathway genes and the role of microRNAs in tumor progression. She investigates how miRNA dysregulation, gene polymorphisms, and checkpoint kinase alterations contribute to tumorigenesis, with significant emphasis on gliomas, gastric cancer, and H. pylori-associated pathogenesis. Dr. Mahjabeen is also involved in studying exosomal miRNAs and their functional targets, aiming to identify biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Her translational research approach integrates molecular biology with bioinformatics to unravel cancer pathways and personalize treatment strategies. Her postdoctoral research at Brown University further broadened her scope, allowing global collaborations and access to advanced genomic tools. She remains committed to bridging basic research and clinical relevance to improve early cancer diagnostics and targeted therapies in low-resource healthcare settings.

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Ishrat Mahjabeen stands out as a dynamic academic and cancer researcher, combining excellence in teaching, mentorship, and cutting-edge molecular oncology. Her global exposure, leadership in translational research, and unwavering commitment to biosciences make her an asset to the scientific community.

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Publications

Engy Risha | Clinical Pathology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Engy Risha | Clinical Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Engy Fikry Mohamed Hassan Risha is the Vice Dean for Education and Student Affairs at Mansoura University – Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Clinical Pathology. She has contributed 75 research publications in clinical pathology and veterinary sciences. With a strong academic background, she has held multiple administrative and academic positions, including Head of the Clinical Pathology Department (2015-2022). She has received numerous awards, including the Best PhD Thesis Award (2011) and International Publications Incentive Awards (2013-present). She actively participates in quality assurance, course standardization, and accreditation processes at her faculty. Additionally, she serves as a reviewer for several prestigious journals in veterinary and environmental sciences. Prof. Engy is proficient in clinical hematology, clinical chemistry, immunology, and molecular biology techniques. She has international research experience in Germany and expertise in statistical analysis, immunohistochemistry, and avian clinical pathology.

Profile

Education 🎓

📌 PhD in Clinical Pathology – Mansoura University, Egypt (2010)
📌 Master’s Degree in Clinical Pathology – Mansoura University, Egypt (2004)
📌 Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences (Honors) – Mansoura University, Egypt (2000)

Prof. Engy has progressively advanced through academic ranks, demonstrating excellence in veterinary clinical pathology. Her PhD research was part of a joint internal mission program between Hannover and Egypt (2008-2009), enhancing her expertise in molecular biology, histology, and immunological techniques. She has also undergone specialized training in avian clinical pathology, clinical hematology, chemistry, and immunology. Additionally, she holds an ICDL certification from UNESCO (2006), reflecting her strong computer skills for academic and research applications.

Experience 👨‍🏫

🔹 Vice Dean for Education and Student Affairs – Mansoura University (2022-2025)
🔹 Head of Clinical Pathology Department – Mansoura University (2015-2022)
🔹 Professor of Clinical Pathology – Mansoura University (2020-Present)
🔹 Assistant Professor of Clinical Pathology – Mansoura University (2015-2020)
🔹 Lecturer of Clinical Pathology – Mansoura University (2010-2015)
🔹 Assistant Lecturer – Mansoura University (2004-2010)
🔹 Demonstrator – Mansoura University (2001-2004)

She has significant expertise in immunohistochemistry, tissue culture, quantitative PCR, and virus infection assays from her research tenure at the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Germany (2008-2009). She is also skilled in statistical analysis (t-test, ANOVA) and photographic histological documentation.

Research Interests 🔬

🔬 Clinical Pathology – Hematology, Chemistry, Immunology
🔬 Molecular Biology – Quantitative PCR, Virus Titration, Immunofluorescence
🔬 Histopathology & Immunohistochemistry – Antigen Retrieval Techniques, Tissue Culture
🔬 Avian Clinical Pathology – Veterinary Diagnostic Applications
🔬 Statistical Analysis – t-test, ANOVA, Data Interpretation

Prof. Engy has 75 research publications in high-impact journals, covering clinical and molecular pathology applications. She is an active reviewer for international journals such as Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology, Applied Organometallic Chemistry, and the Polish Journal of Veterinary Sciences. She also plays a key role in strategic planning, curriculum development, and accreditation for veterinary education. 🚀

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

🏅 Best PhD Thesis Award – Mansoura University (2011)
🏅 International Publications Incentive Award – Mansoura University (2013-present)
🏅 PhD Joint Internal Mission Program – Hannover & Egypt (2008-2009)

Prof. Engy has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to veterinary medicine and research, particularly in clinical pathology. Her international research collaboration has significantly contributed to advancing veterinary diagnostic techniques.

Publications 

Mohammad Ebrahimipour | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr. Mohammad Ebrahimipour | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

 

 

Profile

Education

He holds a PhD in Medical Parasitology from the Department of Parasitology & Mycology at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran (2017). He earned his MSPH in Medical Parasitology from the School of Public Health & Institute of Public Health Research at Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran (2012). Additionally, he completed his B.Sc. in Medical Entomology from the School of Public Health at Bandar Abbas University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran (2008).

 

Work experience

He has presented several research abstracts at prestigious scientific meetings. His work includes a meta-analysis on the prevalence of intestinal parasites among food handlers in Asian and African countries, presented at the 2nd International and 9th National Congress of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases of Iran (NICOPA9) in Guilan, Iran (May 20–22, 2015). Additionally, he conducted a retrospective analysis of human hydatidosis in Khorasan Province, a hyperendemic area in Iran, which was also presented at NICOPA9.

Further, Dr. [Name] contributed to a study on the rate of Plasmodium vivax infectivity in individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency in Hormozgan Province, Iran, showcased at the same congress. Another significant presentation includes research on the prevalence and time-trend analysis of intestinal parasitic infections in Nazarabad, Alborz Province, Iran, based on data from 2012 to 2016, which was presented at the 3rd International and 10th National Congress of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases of Iran (NICOPA10).

Research interest

He is a member of the Iranian Society of Parasitology since 2017. His research interests focus on the epidemiology of parasitic diseases, particularly vector-borne infections, as well as the clinical aspects and control strategies for parasitic diseases. His work aims to enhance understanding and develop effective interventions for managing parasitic infections in endemic regions.

 

Publication
  • Azizian, M., Oliaee, R.T., Karimazar, M.R., Ebrahimipour, M. and Afgar, A.,
    2023. Time Series Model for Forecasting the Prevalence of Some Important Parasitic
    Infections in Slaughtered Sheep in North-Central Iran. Arch Vet Sci, 27(4)
  • Najjari, M., Rezaeian, S., Sheikhbardsiri, H., Afgar, A. and Ebrahimipour, M.,
    2022. Evaluation of the Prevalence of Malaria and Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in the
    Pre-and Post-Disaster Years in Iran. Prehospital and disaster medicine, 37(4),
    pp.444-450.
  • Najjari, M., Karimazar, M., Ebrahimipour, M. and M Budke, C., 2022. A Review
    of Ethical Issues Related to Laboratory-Based Diagnostics. Medical Laboratory
    Journal, 16(2), pp.1-6.
  • Afgar, A., Vahidi, R., Ebrahimipour, M., Babaei, Z., Mirzaei-Parsa, M.J. and
    Ravari, M.S., 2021. The prediction and expression of miR-203a-p and miR-29b*
    against DNMT3B as well as TNFAIP3 in melanoma. Gene Reports, 25, p.101374.
  • Goudarzi, R., Fasihi Harandi, M., Tasavon Gholamhoseini, M. and Ebrahimipour,
    M., 2021. The Costs of Training Medical Parasitology and Mycology Students at
    Kerman University of Medical Sciences. Strides in Development of Medical
    Education, 18(1), pp.1-6.
  • Ebrahimipour, M., Budke, C.M. and Harandi, M.F., 2020. Control of cystic
    echinococcosis in Iran: where do we stand?. Trends in parasitology, 36(7), pp.578-
    581.