Ejaz Ahmad Khera | Materials Simulation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ejaz Ahmad Khera | Materials Simulation | Best Researcher Award


Dr. Ejaz Ahmad Khera is an Assistant Professor of Physics at The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan, and an HEC-approved supervisor with a PhD in the characterization of materials for memory storage and neuromorphic applications using DFT. He has published over 30 high-impact international research articles and currently leads research at the Materials Modeling and Simulation Lab, where he supervises MPhil and PhD students. His group is actively involved in developing efficient double perovskites for solar cell applications. In addition to his academic and research roles, Dr. Khera contributes to departmental administrative functions and has participated in multiple international conferences in physics and materials science. He is proficient in VASP, Wien2k, CASTEP, and other computational tools, reflecting his strong background in computational materials physics.

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Khera earned his PhD in Physics from The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (2016–2021), focusing on DFT-based characterization of materials for neuromorphic and memory applications. He holds an MPhil in Physics from Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad (2012–2014), and a Master of Science in Physics from Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan (2007–2010). His academic foundation combines theoretical physics, computational modeling, and practical understanding of solid-state and condensed matter systems. He is trained in multiple simulation platforms including VASP, Wein2k, and CASTEP, and has built expertise in data analysis software like Origin and visualization tools like VESTA and Crystal Maker. His solid academic training has enabled him to mentor graduate students in computational material science and renewable energy research domains. Dr. Khera has also enhanced his academic exposure through participation in pedagogical and research methodology training programs.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Khera is currently serving as Assistant Professor of Physics at The Islamia University of Bahawalpur since March 2022, where he teaches undergraduate and postgraduate courses, leads research, and manages academic administration. From 2019 to 2021, he was a visiting lecturer at University of Education, Multan Campus, and previously taught physics at Admire Group of Colleges (2017–2021), Muslim Group of Colleges (2013–2017), and Educators Group of Colleges (2011–2013), focusing on undergraduate and higher secondary education. Over a decade of teaching experience has honed his expertise in delivering core physics concepts and mentoring students. In his academic tenure, Dr. Khera has also built research collaborations and guided MPhil and PhD students in materials modeling. His responsibilities have included curriculum design, academic planning, and seminar coordination. He is deeply engaged in academic development through active participation in physics conferences and workshops.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Khera received the Prime Minister Youth Laptop Scheme award from the Federal Government of Pakistan in 2018, recognizing his academic excellence and contribution to higher education. He was also granted the Punjab Government Scholarship under the Fee Reimbursement Scheme for Higher Education in 2017, awarded by the Government of Punjab. These honors reflect his academic merit, commitment to research, and service in the field of physics education. He has participated in multiple international and national-level conferences, including events hosted by The Islamia University of Bahawalpur and The Women University Multan. His consistent performance in academics and his role in teaching and research supervision have earned him institutional recognition. Additionally, his HEC-approved supervisor status further signifies his qualification and leadership in guiding advanced research projects in Pakistan. These accolades support his active involvement in national education development and scientific advancement in materials science.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Khera’s research is centered on computational materials science with a focus on density functional theory (DFT)-based investigations of electronic, optical, thermoelectric, and structural properties of novel materials. His primary interest lies in characterizing double perovskites (DPs), Heusler alloys, and vacancy-ordered compounds for use in solar cells, memory storage, brain-inspired neuromorphic systems, and energy harvesting applications. Using simulation tools like VASP, CASTEP, and Wien2k, he studies materials such as Ga₂PtX₆, Li₂ATlCl₆, and Na₂PtX₆ for their optoelectronic and thermoelectric performance. His recent publications explore halogen modification, spin polarization, and hybrid perovskites for sustainable technologies. His research group actively contributes to discovering lead-free, high-efficiency materials that align with global goals for clean and renewable energy. Dr. Khera also collaborates internationally, co-authoring papers with scientists across Asia and Europe, thereby advancing the field of computational physics and sustainable material development.

Publications

 

  • Probing the opto-electronic, thermoelectric, thermodynamic and elastic responses
    of lead-free double perovskite Li2ATlCl6 (A= Na and K) for potential photovoltaic
    and high-energy applications: A DFT study
    Reference: Qiguo Xiao, Abrar Nazir, Ejaz Ahmad Khera, Mumtaz Manzoor, Ramesh
    Sharma, Javed Rahman, Sabah Ansar, Farooq Ali
    Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921510724006895

 

  • First principles investigation of structural, electronic, optical, transport properties
    of double perovskites X2TaTbO6 (X= Ca, Sr, Ba) for optoelectronic and energy
    harvesting applications
    Reference: Mudassir Ishfaq, Muniba Urooj, Muhammad Sajid, Khawar Ismail, Rimsha
    Baqeel, Ejaz Ahmad Khera, Rajwali Khan, Sattam Al Otaibi, Khaled Althubeiti, Hassan Ali,
    Ghulam Murtaza, Muhammad Jamil
    Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022369724005675

 

 

Nathan Robert Wall | Medicine | Excellence in Research Award

Dr. Nathan Robert Wall | Medicine | Excellence in Research Award

Dr. Nathan R. Wall is an accomplished academic, biomedical researcher, and military officer. He is currently an Associate Professor of Medicine at Loma Linda University School of Medicine and holds multiple leadership roles in research, oncology education, and national defense. With advanced degrees in biology, cancer biology, and business administration, he has dedicated his career to cancer research and military medical operations. Dr. Wall has served in multiple deployments with the California Army National Guard, including missions in Afghanistan, Poland, and Iraq. His military and academic excellence is recognized through numerous awards and honors. Dr. Wall combines rigorous research in molecular medicine with a passion for leadership, education, and national service. His extensive experience in academia, clinical research, and military command uniquely positions him at the intersection of science and strategic operations, contributing to both medical advancement and national security.

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Nathan R. Wall is currently pursuing a Master of Strategic Studies at the U.S. Army War College (2024–2026). He earned his MBA with a focus in Management from the University of Redlands (2006–2008), and a Ph.D. in Cancer Biology from Wayne State University (1996–2000), where he also completed an M.S. in Molecular Biology and Genetics. Prior to that, he obtained an M.S. in Biology (1992–1995) and a B.S. in Biology with a minor in Chemistry (1987–1991) from Walla Walla College (now Walla Walla University). His graduate training included mentorship under leading scientists like Dr. Ayad M. Al-Katib and Dr. Joan M. Redd. Across disciplines—from molecular biology to strategic leadership—Dr. Wall’s education reflects a commitment to interdisciplinary excellence, equipping him with the skills to navigate both biomedical research and complex military operations with strategic insight.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Nathan R. Wall has held academic appointments at Loma Linda University since 2008, currently serving as Associate Professor of Medicine in the Division of Human Anatomy. He also directs Research and Development at the James M. Slater Proton Treatment & Research Center and is Oncology Thread Director at the School of Medicine. Previously, he served in the Department of Biochemistry and Center for Health Disparities. Since 2008, Dr. Wall has simultaneously served in the California Army National Guard, rising through the ranks and completing deployments to Afghanistan, Poland, and Iraq in key command roles. He has also contributed as a scientific advisor for biotech firms and participated in Department of Defense medical research review panels. His interdisciplinary experience spans military medicine, molecular oncology, academic leadership, and national defense, making him a unique leader who bridges science, strategy, and service.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Wall’s exemplary service has earned him numerous military and civilian accolades. These include the Bronze Star Medal, NATO Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Honorable Order of Saint Martin. He’s received multiple Army Commendation and Achievement Medals, along with California-specific honors like the California Medal of Merit and Drill Attendance Ribbon with multiple stars. Notably, he was recognized as “Citizen Warrior of the Month” by California ARNG Magazine in August 2018. Dr. Wall has also been honored with plaques and certificates from NATO, Bulgarian Joint Forces, and various military medical programs. His academic achievements include tenure at Loma Linda University and leadership roles in key training inspections. These honors reflect his unwavering commitment to excellence, leadership in medical readiness, and profound impact in both academic and military sectors.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Wall’s research focuses on cancer biology, with specific expertise in molecular mechanisms of disease, targeted therapies, and translational oncology. His work bridges basic science and clinical application, especially in the context of proton therapy and health disparities in underserved populations. At Loma Linda University, he leads interdisciplinary teams addressing tumor microenvironments, cancer signaling pathways, and innovative therapeutics. Dr. Wall also contributes to Department of Defense research as a peer reviewer, ensuring scientific rigor in funded medical studies. His research often integrates his military background, exploring how stress and trauma-related factors influence cancer biology and immune responses. As Director of R&D at a leading proton treatment center, he’s advancing precision medicine in oncology. Dr. Wall’s work is marked by its practical implications, scientific depth, and commitment to improving patient care—particularly for populations affected by health inequities or involved in military service.

Publications
  • Seco-Duocarmycin SA in Aggressive Glioblastoma Cell Lines

    International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    2025-03-19 | Journal article
    CONTRIBUTORS: Ann Morcos; Yeonkyu Jung; Ryan N. Fuller; Antonella Bertucci; Amy Nguyen; Quanqing Zhang; Tobias Emge; Kristopher E. Boyle; Nathan R. Wall; Marcelo Vazquez
  • A Comprehensive Review of the Antitumor Properties and Mechanistic Insights of Duocarmycin Analogs

    Cancers
    2024-09-27 | Journal article
    CONTRIBUTORS: Ann Morcos; Yeonkyu Jung; Joab Galvan Bustillos; Ryan N. Fuller; David Caba Molina; Antonella Bertucci; Kristopher E. Boyle; Marcelo E. Vazquez; Nathan R. Wal
  • A CTB-SARS-CoV-2-ACE-2 RBD Mucosal Vaccine Protects Against Coronavirus Infection

    Vaccines
    2023-12-18 | Journal article
    CONTRIBUTORS: Béla Dénes; Ryan Fuller; Wayne Kelin; Tessa Levin; Jaipuneet Gil; Aaren Harewood; Márta Lőrincz; Nathan Wall; Anthony Firek; William Langridg

PhongSon Dinh | Gene function analysis | Best Researcher Award

Dr. PhongSon Dinh | Gene function analysis | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Dinh Phong Son is a prominent researcher at Duy Tan University, Vietnam, specializing in laboratory medicine and molecular medicine. With a PhD from Guangxi Medical University, China, he is dedicated to advancing the field of molecular biology and medical diagnostics. His work focuses on identifying biomarkers for early disease detection and investigating gene targets for targeted therapies. He actively contributes to scientific advancements in understanding complex diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Through his expertise in molecular techniques like CRISPR/Cas9, PCR, and sequencing, Dr. Son plays a vital role in improving medical diagnostics and treatments. 🧬🔬

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Dinh Phong Son holds a Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Molecular Medicine from Guangxi Medical University, China, after earning his degree in Laboratory Medicine from Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam. His educational background has equipped him with the expertise in molecular biology, enabling him to explore complex diseases at a molecular level and work on cutting-edge technologies in the field of gene editing and disease diagnosis. 🎓📚

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Dinh Phong Son has significant experience in molecular medicine, focusing on the development of biomarkers for early disease diagnosis and treatment. With expertise in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, qPCR, CRISPR/Cas9, and sequencing, he has conducted extensive research on diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and diabetes. His work integrates bioinformatics and molecular assays to understand gene functions and identify potential drug targets. He is actively contributing to scientific publications and advancing the research community’s knowledge in disease diagnostics and therapies. 🔬💡

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Dinh Phong Son’s research focuses on molecular techniques for disease detection and gene therapy. His current work includes exploring circRNA, miRNA, mRNA, and their role in diseases like coronary heart disease and cancer. Dr. Son is particularly interested in developing diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for systemic diseases using next-generation sequencing and CRISPR/Cas9. He also investigates the interaction networks between lncRNA, circRNA, miRNA, genes, and proteins, aiming to create molecular-based solutions for precision medicine. His research paves the way for future advancements in molecular diagnostics and personalized therapies. 🔬🧬

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Dinh Phong Son’s contributions to molecular medicine have earned him recognition in the scientific community. His research publications, particularly on gene networks and biomarkers in cardiovascular and cancer research, have garnered widespread attention. He is currently a nominee for the Best Researcher Award, reflecting his ongoing commitment to advancing the fields of molecular biology, gene therapy, and disease diagnostics. His work is an important step toward improving public health outcomes through the application of molecular techniques. 🏆🏅

Publications 📚

  • Identification and assessment of hub genes and miRNAs coregulatory associated with immune infiltrations and drug interactions in latent tuberculosis based on MicroarrayData analysis, molecular docking, and dynamic simulation

    Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports
    2025-03 | Journal article
    CONTRIBUTORS: PhongSon Dinh; ChauMyThanh Tran; ThiPhuongHoai Dinh; Hai-Anh Ha; Aigul Utegenova; Awais Ali; Abdulaziz Alamri
  • Hsa_circRNA_0000284 acts as a ceRNA to participate in coronary heart disease progression by sponging miRNA-338-3p via regulating the expression of ETS1

    Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics
    2024-07-02 | Journal article
    CONTRIBUTORS: PhongSon Dinh; ChauMyThanh Tran; ThiPhuongHoai Dinh; Awais Ali; ShangLing Pan
  • Potential diagnostic value of serum microRNAs for 19 cancer types: a meta-analysis of bioinformatics data

    Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics
    2024-03-15 | Journal article
    CONTRIBUTORS: ChauMyThanh Tran; PhongSon Dinh
  • Identification of hsa_circ_0001445 of a novel circRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network as potential biomarker for coronary heart disease

    Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine
    2023-03-14 | Journal article
    Part of ISSN: 2297-055X
    CONTRIBUTORS: PhongSon Dinh; JunHua Peng; ThanhLoan Tran; DongFeng Wu; ChauMyThanh Tran; ThiPhuongHoai Dinh; ShangLing Pan

Lekshmi K. Edison | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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