Lopamudra Parida | Biotechnology | Best Scholar Award

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Ms. Lopamudra Parida | Biotechnology | Best Scholar Award

ICAR-Central Institute Of Freshwater Aquaculture | India

Lopamudra Parida is a dedicated young researcher at ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Bhubaneswar, working on fish immunology and molecular disease mechanisms with a focused interest in cytoskeletal proteins and their role in disease regulation in aquatic organisms. She is pursuing her doctoral research at Utkal University with a thesis on cloning and functional characterization of septin genes in rohu under the mentorship of Dr. P. K. Sahoo, after completing her master’s degree in biotechnology with distinction from Khallikote University and her bachelor’s degree in botany from Khallikote Autonomous College. Her professional journey includes roles as a DST-INSPIRE Fellow, Junior Research Fellow, Young Professional and trainee at renowned institutes, contributing to national fish disease surveillance, molecular studies on banana fruit ripening and cytoskeletal protein purification. Her research interests span molecular cloning, gene expression analysis, host–pathogen interaction, protein characterization, immunomodulation and development of experimental disease models in fish. She possesses extensive skills in molecular biology, proteomics, immunology, histopathology, virology, microbiology, parasitology, bioinformatics and animal handling, along with experience in CRISPR-based gene editing and diagnostics. She has received the DST-INSPIRE award and earned honors for best oral presentations at scientific events. Overall, she stands as a promising aquaculture scientist contributing novel insights into fish immunity and molecular disease control.

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Featured Publications

Parida, L., Paul, A., Mohanty, J., & Sahoo, P. K. (2025). Molecular insights into septin 2 protein in rohu (Labeo rohita): revealing expression dynamics, antimicrobial activity and functional characteristics. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 293, 139353.

Parida, L., Paul, A., Mohanty, S., & Sahoo, P. K. (2025). Molecular and functional characterization of septin 6 in rohu (Labeo rohita) reveals a strong immunopotentiating role and involvement in broad-spectrum disease protection. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 148821.

Henry Nelson Puerta-Guardo | Microbe-Host Biology and Vector Control | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Henry Nelson Puerta-Guardo | Microbe-Host Biology and Vector Control | Best Researcher Award

Universidad Autonoma de Yucatan | Mexico

Dr. Henry Puerta-Guardo is an accomplished Associate Research Professor at the Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán (UADY), Mexico, recognized for his extensive contributions to virology, viral pathogenesis, and vector-borne disease research. He completed his academic training in bacteriology at the University of San Buenaventura, followed by a master’s degree in microbiology and cellular biology from the Venezuelan Institute for Scientific Research, a PhD in infectomics and molecular pathogenesis from CINVESTAV, and postdoctoral research in viral pathogenesis at the University of California, Berkeley. His professional career spans research, teaching, and editorial roles in leading institutions and journals, where he explores the molecular mechanisms of dengue and Zika viruses, host-pathogen interactions, and vector control strategies. His primary research interests include endothelial barrier dysfunction, immune response to flavivirus infections, molecular virology, and epidemiology of arboviruses. Dr. Puerta-Guardo is skilled in cellular and molecular biology, vascular-endothelial biology, and diagnostics development. His numerous awards, such as the National Laboratory for Genomics in Biodiversity Award, the Wellcome Trust Award, and recognition from the National System for Researchers, highlight his scientific excellence. Through innovative interdisciplinary collaborations, he continues to advance global understanding of emerging infectious diseases and develop preventive strategies against arbovirus transmission in endemic regions.

Profile: Google scholar

Featured Publications

Angelo Scuotto | Vaccinology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Angelo Scuotto | Vaccinology | Best Researcher Award

Vaxinano| France

Dr. Angelo Scuotto is an accomplished biotechnology researcher and R&D leader with extensive expertise in vaccine development, nanotechnology-based delivery systems, and bioprocess management. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Cell Biology and Physiology followed by a Master’s degree in Biology and Biotechnology with a specialization in genomics, cellular, and molecular engineering from the University of Lille, before completing his Ph.D. in Biotechnology–Bacteriology through a CIFRE thesis at the University of Lille in collaboration with Bifinove SAS, where he studied bifidobacterial metabolites and their potential in preventing type 1 diabetes, earning a nomination for the “Trophées Force Awards.” Professionally, Dr. Scuotto has progressed from R&D Engineer and Project Leader at Bifinove SAS, where he specialized in fermentation processes, metabolite characterization, and preclinical studies, to GMP Pre-industrialisation Project Manager at Vaxinano, overseeing vaccine scale-up and regulatory compliance. Currently, as R&D Director at Vaxinano, he manages vaccine and therapeutic pipelines, CDMO collaborations, GMP manufacturing, and strategic research directions. His research interests include immunotherapy, vaccine delivery innovations, parasitic diseases, and microbiota studies, supported by strong skills in qPCR, ELISA, fermentation optimization, molecular screening, and preclinical animal models. He has co-authored impactful publications on nanoparticle-based vaccines, immunotherapies, and novel delivery systems. Recognized for scientific excellence, including industry-linked awards and conference contributions, Dr. Scuotto continues to advance biotechnology innovation. In conclusion, his career reflects a dynamic blend of academic rigor, industrial translation, and leadership in global vaccine research.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

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.

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

Rohit Pal | Pharmaceutical Chemistry | Young Scientist Award

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Mr. Rohit Pal | Pharmaceutical Chemistry | Young Scientist Award

PhD Scholar at Acharya and BM Reddy College of Pharmacy, Bengaluru, India

Mr. Rohit Pal is a dedicated and emerging researcher in the field of pharmaceutical sciences, particularly focusing on drug discovery and development. Currently pursuing his Ph.D. at Acharya & BM Reddy College of Pharmacy in Bengaluru, he is engaged in innovative research on Pyrimidine derivatives as fourth-generation EGFR inhibitors to combat Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). With a strong academic background, including an M.Pharmacy in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Mr. Pal combines his expertise in chemical synthesis with cutting-edge computational techniques like molecular docking and structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis. His work spans multiple research areas, including anticonvulsant activity, anti-inflammatory research, and the pharmacognostic standardization of endangered species like Passiflora vitifolia. Throughout his career, Mr. Pal has demonstrated a capacity for both in-silico drug design and experimental testing, balancing theoretical approaches with hands-on experimentation. His impressive publication record in respected journals further showcases his capability to contribute to the scientific community. As a promising young researcher, Mr. Pal’s ongoing work not only advances pharmaceutical sciences but also holds potential for meaningful clinical applications in cancer therapy and drug design.

Profile

Orcid

 

Education 🎓

Mr. Rohit Pal’s educational background demonstrates a consistent pursuit of excellence in the field of pharmaceutical sciences. He is currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program at Acharya & BM Reddy College of Pharmacy in Bengaluru, Karnataka, where his research is focused on the development of Pyrimidine derivatives as EGFR inhibitors to target Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). Prior to his doctoral studies, Mr. Pal completed his M.Pharmacy in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from ISF College of Pharmacy in Moga, Punjab, achieving a notable CGPA of 9.07. His academic journey began with a B. Pharmacy from Dev Bhoomi Institute of Pharmacy and Research, Dehradun, where he gained a robust foundation in pharmaceutical sciences. Additionally, Mr. Pal holds a D. Pharmacy from SGGS College of Pharmacy, Chandigarh, further demonstrating his dedication to the field from the onset of his academic career. His varied educational experiences have shaped his interdisciplinary approach to pharmaceutical research, combining knowledge from chemistry, biology, and computational sciences. This solid academic foundation has propelled Mr. Pal to explore complex drug development challenges, particularly in cancer therapy, with a keen interest in molecular-level drug interactions.

Work Experience 💼

Mr. Rohit Pal’s professional experience reflects a promising trajectory in pharmaceutical research and drug discovery. As a Ph.D. scholar at Acharya & BM Reddy College of Pharmacy, he is deeply involved in researching Pyrimidine derivatives for EGFR inhibition in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). His research explores the design, synthesis, and evaluation of novel drug candidates, combining in-vitro testing with computational drug design. Through the use of molecular docking and structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis, Mr. Pal aims to identify compounds with high therapeutic potential. Beyond his Ph.D. work, Mr. Pal has worked on various other research projects, including 1,2,4-triazine derivatives for anticonvulsant activity and the anti-inflammatory properties of Passiflora vitifolia, an endangered plant species. His work spans both synthetic chemistry and biological testing, allowing him to gain expertise in pharmacological assays and computational modeling. Mr. Pal’s professional experience also includes using sophisticated instruments such as HPLC, UV spectrophotometers, and Microwave Synthesizers, which complement his experimental work and ensure the reliability of his results. These experiences have positioned him well for future leadership roles in pharmaceutical research and drug developmen

Awards and Honors

Although still in the early stages of his academic career, Mr. Rohit Pal has already garnered significant recognition for his research efforts. His academic excellence is reflected in his M.Pharmacy CGPA of 9.07, placing him among the top students in his cohort. Mr. Pal’s research has been published in reputable journals such as the Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics and Chemical Physics Impact, demonstrating the impact and quality of his work. These publications are indicative of his ability to produce research that contributes to the scientific community. Despite being early in his career, his involvement in cutting-edge research on Pyrimidine derivatives and EGFR inhibitors has already gained attention within the academic and pharmaceutical fields. His dedication to molecular docking, drug design, and pharmacognostic studies positions him for further recognition. As Mr. Pal continues to contribute to innovative drug development solutions, he is likely to receive more prestigious awards and honors, reflecting the growing importance of his work in cancer research and pharmaceutical chemistry.

Research Interests

Mr. Rohit Pal’s research interests are centered around the intersection of pharmaceutical chemistry and drug discovery. His primary focus is on developing Pyrimidine derivatives as fourth-generation EGFR inhibitors aimed at Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), a serious health concern with limited therapeutic options. By targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), his work could offer more effective treatment alternatives for cancer patients. In addition to cancer research, Mr. Pal has explored 1,2,4-triazine derivatives for evaluating anticonvulsant activity, contributing to neurological disorder treatments. He is also interested in anti-inflammatory research, with a particular focus on Passiflora vitifolia, an endangered plant species, aiming to standardize its pharmacognostic properties. His multidisciplinary approach extends to the application of computational drug design, where he utilizes molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations to predict drug-receptor interactions. Mr. Pal is committed to advancing drug development by combining experimental chemistry with in-silico methodologies, offering innovative solutions for complex healthcare challenges. His work on drug repurposing, targeted therapies, and sustainable drug sourcing reflects his holistic approach to addressing both scientific and global health concerns.

Research Skills

Mr. Rohit Pal possesses a wide range of research skills essential for successful pharmaceutical research. His proficiency in chemical synthesis includes techniques such as recrystallization, sublimation, and flash chromatography, which he applies to purify and isolate new compounds for testing. In addition to these laboratory techniques, Mr. Pal is highly skilled in analytical methods, including HPLC and UV spectrophotometry, to assess the purity and chemical composition of compounds. He is also adept at utilizing computational tools for drug design, particularly AutoDock, Biovia Drug Discovery Studio, and Pymol, to perform molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. These tools allow him to predict the interactions between drug candidates and their targets, enhancing the efficiency of drug development. Furthermore, Mr. Pal has experience in in-vitro biological testing, including assays for anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, ensuring the biological relevance of his synthesized compounds. His ability to combine experimental techniques with computational modeling equips him to approach drug discovery from both theoretical and practical angles, ensuring well-rounded and impactful research outcomes.

📚 Publications

  • Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of novel 4-(4-ethoxyphenyl)-6-(substituted-phenyl)pyrimidin-2-amine/thiol/hydroxy derivatives as EGFRWT and EGFRT790M inhibitors targeting NSCLC: In-vitro and in-silico exploration
    • Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2024.141227
    • Date: April 2025
    • Contributors: Rohit Pal; Gurubasavaraja Swamy Purawarga Matada; Ghanshyam Teli; Viney Chawla; Pooja A. Chawla
  • Next-generation cancer therapeutics: PROTACs and the role of heterocyclic warheads in targeting resistance
    • Journal: European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.117034
    • Date: January 2025
    • Contributors: Ebna Azizal Omar; Rajesh R.; Pronoy Kanti Das; Rohit Pal; Gurubasavaraja Swamy Purawarga Matada; Lalmohan Maji
  • Benzothiazole a privileged scaffold for cutting-edge anticancer agents: Exploring drug design, structure-activity relationship, and docking studies
    • Journal: European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116831
    • Date: December 2024
    • Contributors: Aayishamma I; Gurubasavaraja Swamy Purawarga Matada; Rohit Pal; Abhishek Ghara; Nimmagadda Venkata Satya Sai Aishwarya; Kumaraswamy B; Ketan R. Hosamani; Manjushree B V; Haripriya E
  • An outlook of docking analysis and structure-activity relationship of pyrimidine-based analogues as EGFR inhibitors against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
    • Journal: Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics
    • DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2252082
    • Date: December 11, 2024
    • Contributors: Rohit Pal; Ghanshyam Teli; Sindhuja Sengupta; Lalmohan Maji; Gurubasavaraja Swamy Purawarga Matada
  • Exploring the anticancer potential of triazine derivatives: An outlook of designing strategies, docking studies, and structure-activity relationships (SAR)
    • Journal: ChemistrySelect
    • DOI: 10.1002/slct.202402766
    • Date: November 2024
    • Contributors: B. V. Manjushree; Gurubasavaraja Swamy Purawarga Matada; Rohit Pal; Md. Ashadul Sk; M. P. Viji; Nimmagadda Venkata Satya Sai Aishwarya; Pronoy Kanti Das; I. Aayishamma; S. Mounika
  • Pyrazole, pyrazoline, and fused pyrazole derivatives: New horizons in EGFR-targeted anticancer agents
    • Journal: Chemistry & Biodiversity
    • DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202400880
    • Date: November 2024
    • Contributors: Ketan R Hosamani; Hemalatha K; Rohit Pal; Gurubasavaraja Swamy Purawarga Matada; Kumaraswamy B; Aayishamma I; Nimmagadda Venkata Satya Sai Aishwarya

Conclusion 

Mr. Rohit Pal is an exceptionally talented and promising researcher in the field of pharmaceutical sciences. His research, focused on Pyrimidine derivatives as EGFR inhibitors for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), is not only innovative but holds significant promise for advancing cancer treatment. His combination of chemical synthesis, computational drug design, and biological testing reflects his multidisciplinary approach to pharmaceutical research. Mr. Pal’s commitment to anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, and pharmacognostic standardization further demonstrates his versatility as a researcher. While still in the early stages of his career, his publication record and expertise in molecular docking and drug design suggest that he is well on his way to becoming a leader in pharmaceutical research. His ongoing work could contribute to groundbreaking advancements in cancer therapy, neurological disorder treatments, and sustainable drug sourcing. With his strong educational background, solid professional experience, and growing body of work, Mr. Rohit Pal is undoubtedly a candidate with the potential to make meaningful contributions to drug development and global health. His future in research looks bright, and he is well-positioned for recognition in upcoming awards such as the Young Scientist Award.