Andrey Popatanasov | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Andrey Popatanasov | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award 

Research Assistant, at Institute of Neurobiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Bulgaria.

Andrey Popatanasov is a dedicated Research Assistant at the Institute of Neurobiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS). His academic journey is distinguished by a multidisciplinary approach: he holds Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology, Physics, and Biology, complemented by Master’s degrees in Clinical Psychology, Medical Physics, and Molecular Biology. Currently, he is pursuing a PhD in Human and Animal Physiology, expected to be conferred this year. Professionally, Popatanasov has been affiliated with various institutes under BAS, contributing to integrative research that bridges the gap between basic science and its application to human well-being. His work aims to advance our understanding of neurobiological mechanisms and their implications for human health.

Professional Profile

Scopus

ORCID

Education

Popatanasov’s educational foundation is both broad and deep, reflecting his commitment to understanding complex biological systems. He earned Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology, Physics, and Biology, providing him with a diverse scientific perspective. Building on this, he completed Master’s degrees in Clinical Psychology, Medical Physics, and Molecular Biology, each aligning with his evolving research interests. Currently, he is finalizing his PhD in Human and Animal Physiology, which will further enhance his expertise in neurobiology. This extensive academic background equips him to approach research questions from multiple disciplinary angles, fostering innovative solutions to complex problems in neuroscience and related fields.

Experience

Throughout his academic and professional career, Popatanasov has gained substantial experience in research and academia. He has been involved in various research projects at institutes of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, where he applied his multidisciplinary training to investigate neurobiological phenomena. Currently, as a Research Assistant at the Institute of Neurobiology, he contributes to studies that explore the molecular and physiological aspects of the nervous system. His role encompasses experimental design, data analysis, and dissemination of findings, all aimed at advancing scientific knowledge and its practical applications in medicine and healthcare.

Research Interests

Popatanasov’s research interests lie at the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, biology, and physics. He investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying cognitive, affective, and pro-social behaviors, particularly in pathological conditions. His work includes in silico and in vitro studies on ligand interactions with brain biomolecules, as well as the impact of electromagnetic radiation from quantum generators on living and non-living matter. Additionally, he explores the relationship between language complexity and brain development in children with disabilities. These interdisciplinary pursuits aim to uncover fundamental insights into brain function and inform therapeutic strategies for various neurological disorders.

Awards

While specific awards are not detailed in the provided information, Popatanasov’s contributions to neuroscience and interdisciplinary research are noteworthy. His work has been recognized through his involvement in peer-reviewed publications and editorial roles, indicating a respected standing within the scientific community. His dedication to advancing knowledge in neurobiology and related fields reflects a commitment to excellence in research and its application to human health.

Top Noted Publications

Popatanasov has co-authored several significant publications in reputable scientific journals. One notable article is “New Insights into the Cytoarchitecture of the Rat Spinal Trigeminal Nucleus,” published in the Proceedings of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences in July 2024. This study provides detailed histological analysis of the spinal trigeminal nucleus, contributing to the understanding of sensory processing in the trigeminal system. Another key publication is “Expression of Neurotrophic Factors and Their Receptors in the Rat Spinal Trigeminal Nucleus,” also in the Proceedings of the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, published in September 2024. This research examines the role of neurotrophic factors in neuronal differentiation and survival, with implications for pain modulation and neuroplasticity. These publications underscore Popatanasov’s active engagement in advancing neurobiological research.proceedings.bas.bg+2proceedings.bas.bg+2proceedings.bas.bg+2proceedings.bas.bg

Publications with Hyperlinks and Citation Information

🧠 1. New Insights into the Cytoarchitecture of the Rat Spinal Trigeminal Nucleus

DOI: 10.7546/CRABS.2024.07.11

This study delves into the structural organization of the spinal trigeminal nucleus (SpV), a pivotal relay station for processing sensory information from the face, head, and oral cavity. Historically considered a continuous structure, it was revealed to be subdivided into three distinct subnuclei: oral, interpolar, and caudal. Utilizing histological techniques, the researchers identified unique cytoarchitectural features characteristic of each subnucleus, providing insights into the spatial distribution and density of neuronal populations across the rostrocaudal extent of the SpV. These findings enhance the understanding of the neural circuitry underlying sensory processing in the trigeminal system and may have implications for the diagnosis and treatment of disorders involving altered trigeminal function. proceedings.bas.bg+1proceedings.bas.bg+1

🧬 2. Expression of Neurotrophic Factors and Their Receptors in the Rat Spinal Trigeminal Nucleus

DOI: 10.7546/CRABS.2024.09.15

In this follow-up study, the authors investigated the expression of neurotrophic factors—nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), neurotrophin-3 (NT-3), and glial-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF)—and their corresponding receptors in the rat SpV. Using primary antibodies against these neurotrophic factors and their receptors, the researchers found immunoreactive cells scattered along the entire length of the nucleus in all three subnuclei. Notably, the majority of spinal trigeminal neurons were intensely immunostained for all the neurotrophic factors examined and were richly endowed with their Trk receptors. The study also observed regional variations in the expression levels of these factors and receptors within the subnuclei. Given that these neurotrophic factors are involved in mechanisms of central sensitization in trigeminal nociceptive pathways, the findings suggest that neurotrophins may contribute to a better understanding of the fundamental mechanisms of orofacial pain. proceedings.bas.bg

Conclusion

Andrey Popatanasov is a highly interdisciplinary researcher with a solid academic and professional foundation. His efforts to integrate diverse scientific domains (psychology, neuroscience, physics, biology) are commendable. He has made meaningful contributions to both theoretical and applied research, especially in brain science, cognitive behavior, and molecular biology.

Athanasia Chatziefstathiou | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs  Athanasia Chatziefstathiou |  Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award 

PhD candidate at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece

 

Athanasia Chatziefstathiou, born on January 30, 1995, is a PhD candidate at the Faculty of Sciences, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. She specializes in molecular biology, with a focus on neurodegenerative diseases, particularly the identification and functional verification of new molecular targets in blood-cerebrospinal fluid and exosomes from affected patients. Her research is driven by a passion for unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying neurological disorders.

professional profile:

Education 🎓

Athanasia Chatziefstathiou is a Ph.D. candidate at the Faculty of Sciences, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. Her doctoral research focuses on the “Identification and functional verification of new molecular targets of blood – cerebrospinal fluid and exosomes from patients with neurodegenerative diseases.” She holds a Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Applied Genetics and Biodiagnosis from the same institution, which she completed in 2020. Her master’s thesis was centered on the “Optimization of protein assays for the diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases.” Prior to that, she earned her Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc.) in Biology from the Faculty of Sciences, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 2018.

Work Experience 💼

From 2024 to 2026, Athanasia is a key member of the Greek Research Team in the IKYDA Programme, which promotes scientific cooperation between Greece and Germany. Her research within this program explores “The role of neuronal exosomes in Prion pathology.” In 2021, she served as a Research Assistant at the Faculty of Sciences, School of Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, where she contributed to the “Development of advanced biomarker technology for the differential diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease,” a project funded by the European Union and Greek national funds. Additionally, during the same year, she worked as a Supporting Teaching Assistant at Aristotle University, aiding in the “Supporting Teaching” initiative to enhance educational activities. She also gained international experience through an ERASMUS+ Internship in Germany, where she focused on optimizing protein assays for the diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases. In 2020, Athanasia contributed to monitoring the SARS-CoV-2 virus at the urban wastewater unit of EYATH, as a Research Assistant at Aristotle University. Her earlier experiences include internships at the Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens (BRFAA) in 2019, where she studied pathways in Parkinson’s Disease, and at the Biomedical Sciences Research Center “Alexander Fleming” in 2018, where she used Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism for neurodegenerative diseases.

Skills & Expertise 🧠

Athanasia has developed a strong skill set in molecular biology techniques, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative disease research. She is proficient in optimizing protein assays and advancing biomarker technology. Her data analysis skills include the use of tools such as Tableau, MySQL, Python, and R. Additionally, she has expertise in using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism for neuroscience research.

Awards & Honors 🏆

Her academic and research excellence has been recognized through several awards. From 2022 to 2025, she received the H.F.R.I. Scholarships for PhD Candidates, securing an Individual Fellowship for her doctoral studies. In 2023, she was honored with the 10th Hellenic Academy of Neuroimmunology award for the best research announcement.

Other Scientific Activities & Training 📚

Athanasia is committed to continuous learning and professional development. In 2024, she participated in the Data Science Summer School, where she honed her skills in Tableau, MySQL, and Python for data analysis. In 2021, she completed the 2nd LAS Core Modules Course organized by BSRC “Alexander Fleming” in line with P.D. 56/2013. Earlier, in 2020, she completed the “Data Science R Basics” course offered by DataCamp, further expanding her expertise in data science.

Conclusion

Athanasia Chatziefstathiou is a promising researcher with a strong academic background, extensive research experience, and notable achievements in the field of neurodegenerative diseases. Her focus on molecular biology, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative diagnostics, positions her as a valuable contributor to this field. Given her achievements, dedication, and ongoing research, Athanasia is a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work has the potential to significantly impact our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases, making her a deserving contender for this recognition.

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Carmela Conte | Neuroscience | Best Extension Activity Award

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Dr Carmela Conte | Neuroscience | Best Extension Activity Award

Aggregate Professor at Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences. University of Perguia ,Italy

 

Carmela Conte is an Italian biochemist and Aggregate Professor at the University of Perugia. She holds a Master’s in Biological Sciences (1994) 🎓, a PhD in Medical Embryology (2000) 🧬, and a specialization in Chemistry and Food Technology (2002) 🧑‍🔬. Recently, she achieved National Habilitation as an Associate Professor in Biochemistry (2023) 🏅.Since 2007, she has taught Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Perugia 📚. Her research focuses on Parkinson’s disease and neuroinflammation 🧠, with notable work conducted at VUMC Medical University of Amsterdam 🧪.Carmela is a member of the European Society for Neurochemistry and the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society 🌐. She serves as a reviewer editor for Frontiers in Neuroscience and reviews for several journals 📝. Her contributions include numerous research papers and conference presentations 🗒️.She also participates in institutional committees at the University of Perugia, collaborating with scientists across Europe to advance neurodegeneration research 🤝.

 

professional profile:

scopus\

 

Education 🎓

Carmela Conte holds a Master’s Degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Perugia, completed on November 3, 1994. She pursued a PhD in Medical Embryology through a joint program of the Universities of Perugia and Ferrara, finishing on January 19, 2000. Additionally, she specialized in Chemistry and Food Technology at the University of Perugia from November 1, 2000, to November 1, 2002. Recently, she obtained her National Habilitation as an Associate Professor in Biochemistry, effective from September 29, 2023.

Work Experience 🏢

Since September 7, 2007, Carmela has served as an Aggregate Professor in Biochemistry at the University of Perugia, teaching courses in General and Systematic Biochemistry, Medical Applied Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology. Her dedication to teaching is complemented by her involvement in research, particularly evident during her teaching and training mobility at VUMC Medical University of Amsterdam from June 24 to July 5, 2019, where she conducted research on the role of Toll-like receptors in Parkinson’s disease.

Skills and Expertise 🧠

Carmela’s expertise spans several critical areas, including neurodegenerative diseases, animal models of neurodegenerative diseases, signal transduction, molecular biology, and cell biology. Her research skills are deeply rooted in her comprehensive understanding of these fields, making significant contributions to the scientific community.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Carmela has received numerous accolades for her work. She is a reviewer editor for Frontiers in Neuroscience, specifically in the section “Neurodegeneration,” and serves as an ad hoc reviewer for several prestigious journals such as Amino Acids, The Cerebellum, and Neurochemical Research. Additionally, she has been a guest editor for Molecules and Cells journals, focusing on special issues and topic collections in the field of neurodegenerative diseases.

Memberships and Networks 🌐

An active member of the European Society for Neurochemistry since September 7, 2007, Carmela also joined the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society on March 17, 2022. These memberships reflect her commitment to staying connected with the broader scientific community and contributing to ongoing research and developments in her field.

Teaching Experience 📚

Carmela boasts over 15 years of teaching experience at the University of Perugia, where she has imparted knowledge in General and Systematic Biochemistry, Medical Applied Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology. She also plays a pivotal role in the PhD program in Pharmaceutical Sciences as a member of the Teaching Board, showcasing her dedication to nurturing the next generation of scientists.

Research Focus 🔬

Carmela’s research is primarily focused on neurodegenerative diseases, with particular attention to Parkinson’s disease, neuroinflammation, synucleinopathies, and oxidative stress. Her projects include studying the role of Toll-like receptors in Parkinson’s disease and investigating the effects of oxidative stress and neuroinflammation on neurodegeneration. Her work delves into the pathological mechanisms of synucleinopathies, contributing valuable insights to the field.

Scientific Contributions 📝

Throughout her career, Carmela has presented her research at numerous scientific meetings and conferences, including the European Society for Neurochemistry and the European Biotechnology Congress. Her notable presentations include studies on antioxidant defense mechanisms, Toll-like receptors, and vitamin D3 in neurodegenerative contexts. She has authored several influential research papers, further establishing her as a leading figure in her field.

Conclusion

Carmela Conte’s extensive education, significant research contributions, active professional memberships, and numerous collaborations make her a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her dedication to advancing knowledge in the field of neurodegenerative diseases, coupled with her active participation in the scientific community, highlights her as a leading researcher whose work has had a profound impact on the field.

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