Kawthar Diab | Biology and Life Science | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr. Kawthar Diab | Biology and Life Science | Best Researcher Award

 

Profile

Education

She holds a Ph.D. in Zoology from Ain Shams University, awarded in March 2009, with her research focusing on the protective role of medicinal plants against the genotoxic effects induced by hydrocortisone in mice. Prior to that, she earned an M.Sc. in Experimental Zoology from Zagazig University in May 2003, where she conducted cytogenetic and immunogenetic studies on cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil, with a particular focus on their effects on reproduction in rats. She completed her B.Sc. in Zoology from Al-Azhar University in May 1996, graduating with a “very good” grade. Her postdoctoral research includes a six-month fellowship at Tokai University, Japan, in the Department of Bioscience, School of Agriculture, from June to December 2014. Additionally, she pursued another six-month postdoctoral fellowship in the Cancer Pharmacology Division at the Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, India, from March to September 2012.

Work experience

She has actively participated in international workshops and conferences, including the Fluorescence Microscopy workshop “FluoMicro@ICGEB” at the International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) in New Delhi, India, from October 2nd to 4th, 2019. Additionally, she was a speaker at the 6th Rajabhat University National and International Research and Academic Conference, held virtually on August 17-18, 2020, where she presented her research on the Cancer Chemopreventive Activity of Himalayan Plants. In terms of academic supervision, she has guided Ph.D. student Amr Mohammed Abo-Elhamd Ahmed, an Assistant Researcher at the Department of Aromatic and Medicinal Plants, Pharmaceutical and Drug Industries Research Institute, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt. His research focuses on the biochemical and therapeutic evaluation of selected Lamiaceae family plants for prostate disease treatment.

Research project

She has actively contributed to several local and international research projects, playing key roles in various studies. From 2005 to 2008, she was a member of a National Research Centre (NRC) project investigating the genotoxic effects of environmental pollution and veterinary drugs (Project No. 7110613). Between 2010 and 2013, she participated in an NRC-funded project on the production and evaluation of bioactive metabolites and hypolipidemic agents derived from marine sponge and coral endophytic microorganisms against carcinogenic pathogens, liver, and colon cancer (Project No. 9100302).

Her research extended to environmental toxicology, where she contributed to a Science & Technology Development Fund (STDF) project (2012-2014) evaluating mango byproducts as antioxidants against genetic damage caused by lead pollution (Project No. 4782). From 2017 to 2019, she served as a Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI) on an NRC project studying the anti-hepatotoxic and antigenotoxic properties of plant extracts and their safety for use (Project No. 11010345). During the same period, she was also a member of an NRC project exploring the effects of nanoparticles in tissue culture applications (Project No. 11030108).

Her expertise further contributed to projects applying OMICS technology to enhance food safety in Egypt (2020-2022, Project No. 12050305) and exploring new pharmaceutical raw materials for prostate disease treatment (2020-2022, Project No. 12060108). Additionally, she collaborated with the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences on a research project (2020-2022) focused on improving the production of therapeutic ingredients in Lamiaceae plants for prostate disease treatment using biotechnology techniques.

Publication

 

  • Zaied FA, Zabal M, Diab KA (2003): Cytogenetic and Imuunogenetic studies of cisplatin and 5-Fluorouracil in rats. Zagazig University Journal, (IX):133–156.
  • Fahmy MA,Diab KA (2009): In vivo genotoxicity studies of cefotaxime.Cytologia, 74 (4):417–425.
  • Diab KA, Hassan ZM. (2011): Assessment of the antigenotoxic activity of white sesame extract (Sesamum indicum) against vincristine induced genotoxicity in mice. Comunicata Scientiae, 2(3)126-134.
  • Diab KA and Aboul-Ela E I (2012): In vivo comparative studies on antigenotoxicity of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) pits extract against DNA damage induced by N-Nitroso-N-methylurea in mice. Toxicology International, 19 (3):279-286.
  • Diab KA,Elmakawy AI, Abd El-Moneim OM, Sharaf HA (2012): Assessment of genotoxicity and histopathological changes induced by polyethylene glycol (PEG 6000) in male mice.  Journal of Cytology & Histology, 3(5): 153.
  • Khalil WKB, Ghal IS, Diab KA,Elmakawy AI (2014): Antitumor activity of Moringaoleifera leaf extract against Ehrlich solid tumor. International Journal of Pharmacy, 4(3): 68-82.
  • Elmakawy AI, Abd El-Moneim OM, Diab KA,Sharaf HA (2014) Evaluation of male-mediated reproductive toxicity induced by polyethylene glycol in mice. World Applied Sciences Journal, 31 (8): 1478-1487.

 

Shilpa Kumari | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Ms.Shilpa Kumari | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

 

Sharda University, India

Profile

Education

She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Sharda University since 2020, having completed her coursework with an impressive 84.5%. She holds an M.Sc. in Biotechnology from Chandigarh University, where she secured 79.6% in 2019. Prior to that, she earned her B.Sc. from HNB Garhwal Central University, Srinagar, in 2017 with a score of 66.7%. She completed her 12th grade in the Medical stream under CBSE in 2014 with 74.4% and her 10th grade in General Science in 2012, securing 75.5%.

 

Awards

She has been awarded the Sharda University Research Scholarship (SURS) by Sharda University since February 2021. She received a 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 held at Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Haryana, in December 2024. Additionally, she was granted International Travel Support from the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, to present her research at the University Malay, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, in August 2024. She secured 2nd Prize at the Anveshan International Convention 2023-2024 (North Zone), organized by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) in January 2024. Furthermore, she won the Best Oral Presentation Award at the National Conference on Disease Diagnosis and Drug Development Against Human Pathogens, sponsored by DBT and organized by Muthyammal College of Arts and Science in November 2023.

Book chapters

1. Shilpa Kumari, Neha Verma, Anil Kumar, Sunita Dalal, and Kanu Priya. “Functional
overrepresentation analysis and their application in microbial pathogenesis.” In Systems Biology
Approaches for Host-Pathogen Interaction Analysis, pp. 171-179. Academic Press, 2024.
2. Neha Verma, Shilpa Kumari, Anil Kumar, and Kanu Priya. “Advancements in systems biologybased analysis of microbial pathogenesis.” In Systems Biology Approaches for Host-Pathogen
Interaction Analysis, pp. 181-190. Academic Press, 2024

Publication

NORMA SILVA | Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

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Dr.Norma Silva | Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

 

The university of Arizona, United States

Profile

Education

She holds a Biotechnology Engineering degree from the Technological Institute of Sonora (1991-1996) and a Master’s in Environmental Sciences and Sustainable Development from the Autonomous University of Sinaloa (2001-2004). She later earned a Ph.D. in Sciences with a Specialization in Biotechnology through the National Program (PNPC) of Biological Sciences of the Northwest, CONACYT, at the Technological Institute of Sonora (2010-2014). Additionally, she has obtained diplomas in teaching, generic competencies, and nutrition

Work experience

She worked as a Laboratory Technician at SABRITAS, S.A. de C.V. (1994-1998), where she was responsible for quality control of physicochemical parameters in raw materials, processes, and packaging lines. From 2001 to 2004, she served as a Professor at Colegio Sinaloa in Culiacán, teaching chemistry, biology, and food analysis. She then worked as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Architecture and Environmental Engineering at the Technological Institute of Cajeme (ITESCA) from 2006 to 2008. Additionally, she held a dual role as a Professor and Academic Administrator in the Department of Biotechnology and Food Sciences at the Technological Institute of Sonora (ITSON) between 2001 and 2014. In 2011, she was an Adjunct Professor at Tecnológico de Monterrey, teaching Organic Chemistry in English. She later joined the University of Sonora (UNISON) as an Adjunct Professor from 2013 to 2016 and again in 2024. From 2017 to 2022, she worked as a Determined Research Professor at UNISON, focusing on biological sciences, particularly in the agri-food field and its connections to public health and the environment. Expanding her research internationally, she became an Associate Researcher at the University of Arizona’s Department of Environmental Sciences from 2021 to 2022. She continued her work there as a Visiting Professor with a Research Scholar position from 2023 to 2024 and is currently an Associate Researcher (2024-2025). Her research at the University of Arizona focuses on the innovation and development of biotechnological products using natural products.

Awards

She has received several distinctions throughout her career, including being recognized as a Distinguished Teacher at the Technological Institute of Sonora in 2006 and 2007. In 2017, she was honored as a Distinguished Citizen in CAJEME by the Interamerican University for Development in Cd. Obregón, Sonora. Her research excellence has been acknowledged by CONACYT’s National System of Researchers, where she was awarded the title of National Researcher Level C from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2018. She advanced to National Researcher Level 1 in the area of Agricultural, Livestock, Forestry, and Ecosystem Sciences from 2019 to 2021 and continued at Level 1 in the area of Biotechnology and Agricultural Sciences for the period from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2026.

Research Experience

She has extensive experience in research and development, demonstrating expertise in implementing technologies and innovative practices to enhance agricultural productivity, food security, and environmental sustainability. Her work focuses on utilizing scientific and technological tools to address complex challenges in the agri-food sector.

She completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the National Laboratory for Research in Food Safety (LANNIA), CONACYT, at the Center for Research in Food and Development (CIAD) (2016-2017), where she worked on the chemical and biological characterization of agro-industry products. Her research experience includes multiple research stays at CIAD: in 2004 at the Environmental Microbiology Laboratory (Culiacán Unit, Sinaloa), where she developed her master’s thesis on disinfection applications in mango products; in 2012 at the Antioxidant Laboratory (Hermosillo Unit, Sonora), where she evaluated the antioxidant capacities of agro-industrial products; and in 2013 at the Environmental Microbiology Laboratory (Culiacán Unit, Sinaloa), where she conducted her doctoral research on the characterization of antiviral studies of agro-industrial products.

Additionally, in 2016, she conducted a research stay at the Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), working at the Center for Genomic Sciences (CCG) in Cuernavaca, Morelos, focusing on the genomic characterization of bacteriophages isolated from agricultural valleys in Southern Sonora, Mexico.

Publication

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

Nicoleta Radu | Microbial biotechnology | Best Scholar Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nicoleta Radu | Microbial biotechnology | Best Scholar Award

Associate Professor at University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Bucharest, Romania

Dr. Nicoleta Radu is a distinguished Associate Professor with extensive expertise in life sciences and engineering sciences. Her academic and professional journey spans over two decades, during which she has significantly contributed to biotechnology, bioethics, and engineering. She currently serves as an Associate Professor at the Doctoral School of Biotechnology, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Bucharest. She has played pivotal roles in academic and research organizations, including as Head of Education and Bioethics Commission in the Romanian Society of Bioengineering and Biotechnology. Dr. Radu’s research portfolio is interdisciplinary, focusing on medical biotechnology, therapeutic nanomaterials, biofertilizers, and biostimulants for sustainable agriculture. Her efforts have led to innovative solutions that address pressing global challenges in healthcare and sustainability. Beyond her research, she is an active mentor and educator, guiding doctoral students and young researchers. Her leadership and scholarly contributions are reflected in her collaborations with international journals and as an evaluator for prestigious European programs. Dr. Radu’s career is marked by a commitment to fostering ethical research practices and driving innovation in biotechnology and engineering sciences. Her work continues to influence academic, scientific, and industrial landscapes globally.

Profile

Google Scholar

Orcid

Education 🎓

Dr. Nicoleta Radu’s academic foundation reflects a deep and diverse engagement with life sciences and engineering. She earned her Ph.D. in Engineering Science in 2005 from the University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest, a testament to her commitment to advanced research. Her passion for interdisciplinary learning is evident from her two Master’s degrees: one in Biotechnology in 2010 and another in Inorganic Chemistry in 1995, both from the University POLITEHNICA. These degrees equipped her with a unique combination of skills, blending chemical expertise with biotechnological applications. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering Science, completed in 1994, which laid the groundwork for her prolific career. Over the years, her continuous learning and integration of multiple scientific disciplines have been instrumental in shaping her research approach. Dr. Radu’s educational journey demonstrates her dedication to mastering the complexities of science and technology, which has enabled her to tackle challenging research problems. Her qualifications highlight her intellectual rigor and her ability to navigate the intersections of chemistry, biology, and engineering, making her a versatile academician and researcher.

Work Experience 💼

Dr. Nicoleta Radu’s professional career is marked by a blend of academic leadership, research innovation, and organizational contributions. With over 25 years of experience, she has consistently demonstrated excellence in teaching, research, and management. She began her career as a scientist at INCDCP Bucharest, where she contributed to significant advancements in life sciences and engineering sciences. Since 2020, she has been serving as an Associate Professor at the Doctoral School of Biotechnology, University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Bucharest. In this role, she mentors doctoral students, conducts advanced research, and contributes to the development of innovative biotechnological solutions. Dr. Radu also served as the Head of Education and Bioethics Commission for the Romanian Society of Bioengineering and Biotechnology, where she emphasized ethical practices in research and education. Her professional experience includes collaborations with international organizations, participation in European research programs, and involvement in cross-disciplinary projects. Dr. Radu’s career trajectory reflects her commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge while maintaining the highest standards of academic and scientific integrity. Her roles in education and bioethics further highlight her dedication to fostering an environment of innovation and responsibility.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Nicoleta Radu’s contributions to science and academia have earned her several accolades and prestigious roles. She has been a reviewer for leading international journals such as the International Journal of Molecular Sciences and Genes, reflecting her expertise in her field. As an evaluator for European programs like COST, EUREKA, and INNOWIDE, Dr. Radu has been instrumental in shaping research initiatives at the continental level. These responsibilities highlight her reputation as a trusted and knowledgeable scientific evaluator. Her work has also been recognized through invitations to participate in global conferences and collaborations with renowned research institutions. Dr. Radu’s honors reflect her impact on the scientific community, her leadership in fostering ethical research practices, and her commitment to advancing biotechnological innovations. These accolades not only underscore her professional excellence but also inspire her continued efforts to contribute meaningfully to science and society.

Research Interests

Dr. Nicoleta Radu’s research interests lie at the intersection of biotechnology, engineering sciences, and sustainability. Her work focuses on medical biotechnology, where she has contributed to developing therapeutic nanomaterials that hold promise for advancing healthcare. Another significant area of her research is sustainable agriculture, where she investigates the use of biofertilizers and biostimulants to improve crop productivity while minimizing environmental impact. Dr. Radu’s interdisciplinary approach integrates cutting-edge technologies with ethical considerations, ensuring that her work addresses global challenges responsibly. She is particularly interested in bioethics, striving to promote responsible practices in the scientific community. Her research also explores the potential of novel biotechnological methods to address pressing issues in food security, environmental sustainability, and medical innovation. Dr. Radu’s ability to bridge multiple fields positions her as a leader in addressing complex problems through a holistic scientific lens. Her contributions to these areas not only advance academic knowledge but also provide practical solutions with far-reaching implications for society and industry.

Research Skills

Dr. Nicoleta Radu possesses a robust set of research skills that underpin her success in interdisciplinary scientific investigations. She is adept at using modern modeling and statistical tools, including Fuzzy Tech, Neural Networks, and Table Curve 3D, which enable her to analyze complex data and develop predictive models. Her proficiency in both Mac OS and Windows environments ensures seamless adaptability to various software platforms. Dr. Radu has honed her skills in designing and implementing biotechnological methods, with a focus on therapeutic systems and sustainable agricultural solutions. She excels in laboratory techniques related to nanomaterials, biofertilizers, and biostimulants, demonstrating her technical expertise. Additionally, her ability to integrate bioethical principles into her research showcases her commitment to responsible science. Her collaborative skills and ability to lead multidisciplinary teams have been instrumental in advancing her research objectives. Dr. Radu’s technical acumen, combined with her innovative mindset, enables her to contribute significantly to complex scientific challenges while maintaining a focus on ethical and sustainable practices.

📚 Publications

Cladosporium sp. Isolate as Fungal Plant Growth Promoting Agent

  • Journal: Agronomy
  • Year: 2021
  • Citations: 63

Fungal-Based Biopolymer Composites for Construction Materials

  • Journal: Materials
  • Year: 2021
  • Citations: 41

Antimicrobial Effect of Monascus purpureus Red Rice Against Some Bacterial and Fungal Strains

  • Journal: New Biotechnology
  • Year: 2009
  • Citations: 29

The Effect of Resveratrol or Curcumin on Head and Neck Cancer Cells Sensitivity to the Cytotoxic Effects of Cisplatin

  • Journal: Nutrients
  • Year: 2020
  • Citations: 23

Cisplatin Effect on Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells is Modulated by ERK1/2 Protein Kinases

  • Journal: Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine
  • Year: 2019
  • Citations: 23

Resveratrol Modulation of Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Response to Cisplatin in Head and Neck Cancer Cell Lines

  • Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
  • Year: 2021
  • Citations: 22

Ganoderma lucidum-Mediated Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles with Antimicrobial Activity

  • Journal: Materials
  • Year: 2023
  • Citations: 21

Studies Regarding the Pharmaceutical Potential of Derivative Products from Plantain

  • Contributors: MGO Zaharie, N Radu, L Pirvu, M Bostan, M Voicescu, M Begea, …

Conclusion 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nicoleta Radu is a strong candidate for the Research for Best Scholar Award. Her vast experience, leadership roles, interdisciplinary expertise, and significant academic contributions make her highly deserving. Enhancing the profile with quantitative research metrics and recent impactful projects could further solidify her application. Overall, she exemplifies a dedicated scholar with a substantial impact on the fields of biotechnology and engineering sciences.