Mar Villamiel | Biology and Life Sciences | Women Researcher Award

Posted on 03/05/202503/05/2025 by ScienceFather

Mar Villamiel | Biology and Life Sciences | Women Researcher Award

Dr Mar Villamiel, CIAL, CSIC-UAM, Spain

Dr. Mar Villamiel is the Director of CIAL (Institute of Food Science Research, CSIC-UAM) in Spain and leads the PREBIOIN research group focused on carbohydrate functionality and food bioactivity. With a PhD in Pharmacy from Complutense University of Madrid, she specializes in food technology, bioactive carbohydrates, and sustainable food preservation. Her innovative research centers on extracting and characterizing pectin and other functional ingredients from agri-food by-products. Dr. Villamiel has coordinated over 70 research projects and contracts, published 173 JCR articles (h-index: 46 WoS), co-authored 20 book chapters, and holds 7 patents. Her work has earned her national and international recognition, including being named among the Top 2% of Scientists worldwide by Stanford University. Passionate about science communication, she has presented at over 150 conferences and supervised more than 50 academic theses and internships globally. Her commitment to sustainability and technological advancement defines her as a leading force in food science research.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Mar Villamiel completed her undergraduate degree in Pharmacy at Complutense University of Madrid in 1991 and earned her PhD in Pharmacy from the same institution in 1995. Her doctoral studies laid the groundwork for a highly interdisciplinary research career, incorporating analytical chemistry, food technology, and functional foods. Postdoctoral work in the Netherlands and professional exchanges in the UK expanded her knowledge in sustainable food preservation and the development of bioactive food compounds. Her deep educational foundation has supported her leadership in developing advanced methodologies in food science. Through ongoing academic collaborations and international stays, she continues to enhance her expertise and contribute to global education, mentoring students and researchers across Europe, Latin America, and beyond. Her academic path reflects a consistent trajectory of excellence, innovation, and dedication to research in food bioactivity and sustainable processing technologies. 🎓🔍📘🌍

Experience

Dr. Villamiel has over two decades of experience in food science research, beginning her career as a Tenured Scientist at CSIC (2000–2009). She later served as Deputy Director (2017–2019) and is currently the Director of CIAL since March 2021. She leads the PREBIOIN group, which explores carbohydrate functionality, pectin extraction, and sustainable food technologies. She has led 8 international projects, 34 industry contracts, and 72 total projects, often as Principal Investigator. She has published widely, mentored numerous PhDs (including international awardees), and edited prestigious scientific journals. Her collaborations span across institutions in Europe, Latin America, and Asia. She actively participates in EU regulatory panels and scientific committees and has received 10 research awards. Her interdisciplinary approach and leadership have made significant impacts in agri-food revalorization, food preservation, and nutritional functionality.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Mar Villamiel’s outstanding contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including 10 research awards and inclusion in the Stanford–Elsevier World’s Top 2% Scientists list in 2024. She has received five positive evaluations for six-year research periods, attesting to the sustained quality and impact of her work. Her research achievements include 7 patents (2 international), 173 JCR-indexed publications, and leadership of multi-million-euro research projects. She has served as an editor for major scientific journals and been an invited speaker at 17 international conferences. Her innovative methodologies in pectin extraction and bioactive compound analysis have been recognized with top conference awards, including First Prize at the Food Chemistry Conference (2023). She represents CSIC on platforms like the Biobased Industries Consortium and Food for Life. Her awards reflect her global influence, scientific leadership, and unwavering commitment to advancing sustainable food research.

Research Focus

Dr. Villamiel’s research focuses on the chemistry and functionality of carbohydrates, particularly pectins derived from agri-food by-products. She pioneers green extraction technologies such as ultrasound and subcritical water methods to obtain high-value bioactive compounds. Her work contributes significantly to sustainable food systems, enabling revalorization of food waste and enhancing nutritional profiles of food products. She leads multiple international collaborations and has developed in vitro digestion models to study carbohydrate behavior in the human gut. Her research addresses pressing challenges in food preservation, functional ingredient development, and biorefinery approaches for the food industry. With 173 publications, a high h-index (47 Scopus), and leadership in EU and Latin American projects, she is at the forefront of innovation in food science. Her contributions support public health, environmental sustainability, and industrial competitiveness through novel bioactive food solutions.

Publication Top Notes

Flours from popped grains: Physicochemical, thermal, rheological, and techno-functional properties

Use of natural low‐methoxyl pectin from sunflower by‐products for the formulation of low‐sucrose strawberry jams

Integral use of pectin-rich by-products in a biorefinery context: A holistic approach

Apple pomaces derived from mono-varietal Asturian ciders production are potential source of pectins with appealing functional properties

Application of sunflower pectin gels with low glycemic index in the coating of fresh strawberries stored in modified atmospheres

Behaviour of citrus pectin and modified citrus pectin in an azoxymethane/dextran sodium sulfate (AOM/DSS)-induced rat colorectal carcinogenesis model

Aditi Bhargava | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 21/03/202521/03/2025 by ScienceFather

Aditi Bhargava | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof Aditi Bhargava, University of California San Francisco, United States

Prof. Aditi Bhargava is a distinguished researcher and academician specializing in molecular biology, physiology, and endocrinology. She has made groundbreaking contributions to understanding the molecular mechanisms of stress responses, aging, and cardiovascular disease. Throughout her career, she has held prestigious positions, including Professor Emeritus at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). Prof. Bhargava’s research integrates hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors to uncover their roles in disease progression. With an extensive publication record and a commitment to mentoring the next generation of scientists, she has played a crucial role in advancing biomedical research. Her expertise extends to hormonal signaling pathways, genomics, and translational medicine. Recognized globally for her contributions, Prof. Bhargava has received numerous awards for her pioneering research. She continues to lead significant projects in precision medicine and molecular diagnostics, shaping the future of medical science. 🏆📚

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

🎓 Prof. Aditi Bhargava has an outstanding academic background in molecular biology and physiology. She earned her PhD in Zoology (Molecular Biology) from the University of Pune, India (1995), where she focused on genetic and molecular mechanisms of disease progression. Prior to that, she completed her MSc in Zoology (Specialization: Molecular Biology) from the University of Pune (1988), laying a strong foundation in biotechnology and genomic studies. Her undergraduate journey began at the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur (1986), where she earned a BSc in Zoology (Honors), excelling in genetics, microbiology, and molecular biochemistry. Throughout her academic career, Prof. Bhargava has demonstrated exceptional analytical skills and research expertise, contributing to numerous scientific discoveries. She has also attended specialized training programs and workshops worldwide, enhancing her knowledge in gene regulation, bioinformatics, and cellular signaling. Her educational background has been instrumental in shaping her impactful research career. 🧬📖

Experience

👩‍🏫 Prof. Aditi Bhargava has held prestigious academic and research positions at world-renowned institutions. She served as a Professor Emeritus at UCSF, where she mentored numerous PhD scholars and postdoctoral researchers. Prior to that, she was a Professor and Associate Professor at UCSF, contributing significantly to research in molecular endocrinology and stress physiology. She also worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow at UCSF and New York Medical College, where she gained extensive experience in molecular signaling pathways and translational medicine. Throughout her career, she has led multiple NIH-funded projects, supervised clinical trials, and collaborated with leading scientists to develop novel therapeutic strategies. Her expertise spans gene expression analysis, pharmacogenomics, and precision medicine. As a distinguished educator, Prof. Bhargava has designed and taught advanced molecular biology courses, influencing the next generation of biomedical scientists. Her global research collaborations continue to make significant scientific advancements. 🌍🔍

Awards and Honors

Prof. Aditi Bhargava has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing her groundbreaking research contributions. She was honored with the UNESCO/TWAS Human Genome Fellowship, acknowledging her significant work in genomics and molecular biology. She also received the Senior Research Fellowship from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), highlighting her excellence in biomedical sciences. Additionally, she was awarded the Quest Diagnostic Young Investigator Award, recognizing her innovative approach to molecular diagnostics and disease modeling. Prof. Bhargava is a Fellow of the American Gastroenterological Association (AGAF), a testament to her pioneering work in endocrinology and gastrointestinal research. Her numerous NIH research grants and global collaborations underscore her leadership in precision medicine and therapeutic research. She has been invited as a keynote speaker at international conferences, sharing her expertise in molecular signaling and translational medicine. Her dedication to scientific excellence continues to inspire future generations. 🏆📜

Research Focus

Prof. Aditi Bhargava specializes in molecular endocrinology, stress physiology, and precision medicine. Her research explores the intricate interactions between hormones, genes, and environmental factors to understand their impact on aging, cardiovascular diseases, and stress responses. A major focus of her work is the regulation of gene expression in response to stress and hormonal fluctuations, which has implications for mental health, metabolic disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. She has extensively studied serum- and glucocorticoid-regulated kinases (SGK1), revealing their role in sodium transport and cellular homeostasis. Her work has also contributed to developing novel biomarkers for early disease detection. Prof. Bhargava integrates genomics, bioinformatics, and molecular diagnostics to advance therapeutic strategies for complex diseases. Her research has broad clinical applications, contributing to the development of targeted therapies for endocrine disorders, hypertension, and neurodegeneration. She remains at the forefront of biomedical innovation.

Publication Top Notes

Epithelial sodium channel regulated by aldosterone-induced protein sgk

Chronic stress promotes palatable feeding, which reduces signs of stress: feedforward and feedback effects of chronic stress

SGK integrates insulin and mineralocorticoid regulation of epithelial sodium transport

Gliopathic pain: when satellite glial cells go bad

The serum-and glucocorticoid-induced kinase is a physiological mediator of aldosterone action

Silencing the Kir4. 1 potassium channel subunit in satellite glial cells of the rat trigeminal ganglion results in pain-like behavior in the absence of nerve injury

Evidence for a role of connexin 43 in trigeminal pain using RNA interference in vivo

Salwa Bouabdallah | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 23/10/202423/10/2024 by ScienceFather

Salwa Bouabdallah | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr salwa Bouabdallah, Faculty of science of bizerta, Tunisia

Dr. Salwa Bouabdallah is a distinguished researcher in Biological Sciences, earning her Ph.D. with distinction from the University of Carthage, Tunisia. With postdoctoral experience in Romania, she teaches biochemistry, neurophysiology, and biostatistics across several universities. Her innovative research focuses on behavioral neurophysiology and the therapeutic potential of natural compounds, including the health effects of Tribulus terrestris and its relevance to Alzheimer’s disease. Recognized with awards like the First Prize at the International Congress on Bioactive Molecules, Dr. Bouabdallah is dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and mentoring future researchers. 🌱📚🔬🏆

Publication Profile

Orcid

University Degrees

Dr. Salwa Bouabdallah has a distinguished academic background in biological sciences. She earned her Ph.D. with distinction in Biological Sciences from the University of Carthage, Tunisia (2013-2016). Prior to that, she obtained a Master’s Degree in Research in Molecular and Cellular Plant Physiology from the University of Tunis El Manar (2010-2012) and another Master’s Degree in Life Sciences from the Virtual University of Tunis (2004-2009). Her educational journey began with a Higher Technician Diploma in Public Health (1991-1993) and a Baccalaureate Diploma in Mathematics and Science (1990). Her extensive qualifications highlight her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge. 🎓🌱🔬

Professional Experience

Dr. Salwa Bouabdallah has held numerous prestigious research and teaching positions from 2017 to 2024, including postdoctoral researcher roles at the Faculty of Science of Bizerta and Hospital HC-N. She has been an adjunct lecturer, teaching biochemistry, neurophysiology, and biostatistics, while also developing teaching materials and supervising Master’s and PhD students in Biology. With a strong background in public health, Dr. Bouabdallah worked as a Senior Technician in Medical Imaging from 1995 to 2008, training students in MRI applications. Her commitment to education is further highlighted by her participation in scientific events and training on digital pedagogy. 🎓🧬🩺📚

Awards and Honors

Dr. Salwa Bouabdallah has received significant recognition for her contributions to the field of biological sciences. In 2014, she was awarded the First Prize at the 1st International Congress on Bioactive Molecules, Functional Foods, and Oxidative Stress-Related Diseases held in Hammamet, showcasing her outstanding research impact. Additionally, she was honored as a Eugen UNESCO Fellowship Laureate for her postdoctoral work from 2022 to 2023, further emphasizing her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge. These accolades highlight her dedication and excellence in research, making her a prominent figure in her field. 🏆🌱📚🌍

Technical and Professional Skills

Dr. Salwa Bouabdallah has extensive expertise in behavioral neurophysiology, employing zebrafish models for various tests, including Y-maze, Novel Tank Test, and T-maze assessments. Her research focuses on identifying theranostic biomarkers for innovative and personalized therapies and utilizing molecular docking modeling to explore interactions between physiological receptors and bioactive natural substances. She is skilled in in vitro cell culture and cytotoxic testing, measuring oxidative stress biomarkers, and extracting DNA and RNA from various tissues. Additionally, Dr. Bouabdallah is proficient in characterizing and valorizing bioactive molecules from Tunisian flora using advanced techniques like HPLC and GC-MS. 🧬🌿🔬📊🌱

Research Focus

Dr. Salwa Bouabdallah’s research focuses on the intersection of natural compounds and their therapeutic potential, particularly in neuropharmacology and cancer treatment. She explores the bioactive properties of plants like Tribulus terrestris, examining their effects on neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and their anticancer activities. Her work includes behavioral neurophysiology testing in zebrafish, molecular docking studies, and the identification of theranostic biomarkers for personalized therapies. Additionally, Dr. Bouabdallah investigates the chemical profiles and health benefits of natural products, contributing significantly to the fields of molecular plant physiology, public health, and phytochemistry. 🌿🔬📚🧬💊

Publication Top Notes

Efficacy of Tribulus terrestris on diabetes and sexual disorders: A narrative review

Important Antihistaminic Plants and Their Potential Role in Health.

Sustainable Extraction, Chemical Profile, Cytotoxic and Antileishmanial Activities In-Vitro of Some <i>Citrus</i> Species Leaves Essential Oils

Separation and evaluation of natural antileishmanial potential against Leishmania major and infuntum isolated from the Tunisia strains

Current approaches and challenges for chemical characterization of inhibitory effect against cancer cell line isolated from Gokshur extract

Conclusion

Given her impressive track record of achievements, commitment to research and education, and significant contributions to her field, Dr. Salwa Bouabdallah is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award.

Muhammad Usama Mazhar | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 18/09/202418/09/2024 by ScienceFather

Muhammad Usama Mazhar | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr Muhammad Usama Mazhar, Quaid I Azam University, Pakistan

Based on Dr. Muhammad Usama Mazhar’s comprehensive profile and achievements, he appears to be a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Here’s a breakdown of his qualifications and contributions:

Publication profile

google scholar

Professional Experience

Dr. Mazhar has accumulated extensive teaching experience over nearly five years, including roles as a visiting lab instructor at Quaid-i-Azam University and as a lecturer at various institutions. His experience spans both academic and clinical settings, showcasing his versatility and commitment to education.

Honors and Awards

Dr. Mazhar has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, reflected in multiple scholarships and awards throughout his Pharm.D. and M.Phil. studies. His recognition as the Best Teacher of the Session 2015-16 highlights his effective teaching and impact on students.

Educational Background

Dr. Mazhar’s educational credentials include a Ph.D. in Pharmacology (thesis submitted) and an M.Phil. in Pharmacology, both from reputable institutions. His strong academic foundation supports his research capabilities.

Research Contributions

Dr. Mazhar has published several significant research papers, including studies on the spasmolytic effects of Astragalus sarcocolla, chronic stress and neuroinflammation, and the pharmacokinetics of Rasagiline. His research spans diverse topics such as pharmacology, neurobiology, and therapeutic potentials, indicating a broad and impactful research agenda.

Workshops and Conferences

His participation in various workshops and international conferences demonstrates his commitment to staying updated with global trends and contributing to scientific discussions.

Teaching and Mentorship

His teaching experience at various esteemed institutions, including the Indian Institute of Information Technology Design and Manufacturing and National Institute of Technology, reflects his commitment to education and mentorship in his field.

Summary

Dr. Muhammad Usama Mazhar’s impressive combination of teaching experience, academic awards, rigorous educational background, impactful research publications, and active participation in professional development makes him a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His research not only advances pharmacological knowledge but also addresses significant clinical and therapeutic challenges.

Publication top notes

The spasmolytic effect of astragalus sarcocolla on the intestinal smooth muscles of rabbit in vitro: Potassium channel opening

Chronic stress intensify PTZ-induced seizures by triggering neuroinflammation and oxidative stress

Immunostimulant, hepatoprotective, and nephroprotective potential of Bacillus subtilis (NMCC-path-14) in comparison to dexamethasone in alleviating CFA-induced arthritis

Rasagiline Pharmacokinetics in CYP1A2 Variant Healthy Smokers & Non-smokers in Different Doses

In-vitro anticoagulant activity of three extracts of Astragalus sarcocolla

Anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic potential of Coagulansin-A: in vitro and in vivo studies

Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Activities of Astragalus sarcocolla Dymock

In vivo evaluation of efficacy and safety of Coagulansin-A in treating arthritis

Kyeong-Man Kim | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 20/08/202420/08/2024 by ScienceFather

Kyeong-Man Kim | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr Kyeong-Man Kim, Chonnam National University, South Korea

Evaluation of Dr. Kyeong-Man Kim for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication profile

orcid

Dr. Kyeong-Man Kim’s long and distinguished career in pharmacology makes him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With over three decades of experience as a Professor at the College of Pharmacy, Chonnam National University, Dr. Kim has made significant contributions to the field of pharmacology, particularly in the study of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs).

Academic and Research Background

Dr. Kim holds a Ph.D. in Pharmacology from the University of Illinois at Chicago and has completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Duke University Medical Center. His extensive education and training in pharmacology have laid the foundation for his impactful research in GPCR signaling and regulation, transactivation between membrane receptors, and the development of selective ligands and inhibitors for GPCRs and transporters.

Significant Research Contributions

Dr. Kim has made notable contributions to the understanding of GPCR mechanisms. His research has explored novel mechanisms such as the sequestration of Gβγ by deubiquitinated arrestins into the nucleus as a desensitization mechanism of GPCRs and the role of GRK2-mediated receptor phosphorylation in GPCR endocytosis. His work on the interaction between the transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 channel and the dopamine transporter in modulating methamphetamine abuse-related mechanisms has been published in prestigious journals like the British Journal of Pharmacology and Life Science Alliance.

Conclusion

Given Dr. Kyeong-Man Kim’s significant and ongoing contributions to pharmacology, particularly his groundbreaking research on GPCRs and their signaling pathways, he is highly deserving of consideration for the Best Researcher Award. His work has advanced our understanding of cellular signaling mechanisms and has the potential to lead to new therapeutic approaches for various conditions.

publication top notes

Transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 channel modulates the abuse‐related mechanisms of methamphetamine through interaction with dopamine transporter

PKCβII activation requires nuclear trafficking for phosphorylation and Mdm2-mediated ubiquitination

Sequestration of Gβγ by deubiquitinated arrestins into the nucleus as a novel desensitization mechanism of G protein–coupled receptors

β‐Arrestin1 and GPCR kinase2 play permissive roles in Src‐mediated endocytosis of α4β2 nicotinic ACh receptors

GRK2-mediated receptor phosphorylation and Mdm2-mediated β-arrestin2 ubiquitination drive clathrin-mediated endocytosis of G protein-coupled receptors

Cytoplasmic recruitment of Mdm2 as a common characteristic of G protein-coupled receptors that undergo desensitization

A novel molecular mechanism involved in the crosstalks between homologous and PKC-mediated heterologous regulatory pathway of dopamine D2 receptor

Zoia Arshad Awan | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Posted on 24/07/202424/07/2024 by ScienceFather

Zoia Arshad Awan | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr Zoia Arshad Awan, Teagasc, Food Research Centre, Ashtown. Ireland

Zoia Arshad Awan is a seasoned researcher specializing in plant pathology and horticulture. 🌿 With a Ph.D. from the University of the Punjab, she has significantly contributed to studies on biocontrol of plant pathogens and the improvement of crop productivity. 🌾 As a Research Officer at Teagasc Ashtown Food Research Centre, she leads innovative projects in vertical farming and hydroponics. Previously, she provided technical insights at WWF-Pakistan and contributed to various research roles at the University of the Punjab and The University of Queensland. 🌍 Her extensive publication record includes impactful research in plant disease management and agricultural sustainability. 📚

Publication profile

google scholar

Education

Dr. Zoia Arshad Awan earned a Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences (Plant Pathology) from the Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, University of the Punjab, Pakistan, with a 3.76/4.00 CGPA. Their thesis focused on the “Antifungal Potential of Bacterial Bioactive Products and Plant Nutrients in Managing Early Blight Disease of Tomato.” They completed their M.Sc. (Hons.) in Agriculture Plant Pathology with a 3.93/4.00 CGPA, researching “A Polyphasic Approach to the Identification of Aspergillus Section Flavi.” Their B.Sc. (Hons.) in the same field had a 3.51/4.00 CGPA, with a report on “Isolation, Purification, and Identification of Phyto-pathogenic Bacteria and Fungi from Guava Orchards.” 🌱🔬📚

Experience

Dr. Zoia Arshad Awan🌿 is a dedicated researcher with extensive experience in horticulture and sustainable agriculture. Currently serving as a Research Officer at Teagasc Ashtown Food Research Centre in Dublin, Ireland (02/2023-09/2024), they focus on designing and managing research in protected and semi-protected horticulture. Previously, they worked at WWF-Pakistan (08/2020-02/2023), providing technical inputs and building field research capacity. They also contributed as a Research Assistant at the University of the Punjab, Pakistan (10/2015-02/2020), and gained international experience as a Visiting Researcher at The University of Queensland, Australia (12/2019-10/2019). Their early career includes roles at the First Fungal Culture Bank of Pakistan and as a Research Intern at WMTI, Lahore. 🌱📈

Awards

Awarded the International Research Support Initiative Program (IRSIP) scholarship by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), Pakistan, during Ph.D. studies 🎓. Received the prestigious Doctoral Programme Coordination Committee (DPCC) merit scholarship from the University of Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan 🏅. Completed an MPhil degree with distinction, showcasing exceptional academic performance 🌟. Earned internal merit scholarships during M.Sc. (Hons.) and B.Sc. (Hons.), highlighting a consistent record of excellence and dedication to academic achievements 📚.

Research focus

Based on the listed publications, the research focus of A Shoaib revolves around plant pathology, specifically in developing resistance strategies for tomato plants against early blight disease. The studies explore various approaches such as using antagonistic bacteria, Bacillus subtilis, and different fertilizers to induce disease resistance. Additionally, Shoaib investigates the biochemical and physiological responses of plants to stressors like heavy metals and pathogens, including the role of antioxidant enzymes and exogenous compounds. This research contributes to improving plant health and disease management in agricultural settings. 🌱🦠🔬