Msizi Mhlongo | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Msizi Mhlongo | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer at University of Johannesburg – Department Biochemistry, South Africa

Dr. Msizi Innocent Mhlongo is a distinguished South African biochemist and metabolomics expert, currently serving as Head of the Department of Biochemistry at the University of Johannesburg. With a PhD in Biochemistry and a consistent record of academic excellence, he has authored over 25 peer-reviewed publications and has achieved an impressive Scopus h-index of 16 and Google Scholar h-index of 17. His research spans plant-microbe interactions, LC-MS/GC-MS-based metabolomics, and phytochemical drug discovery, including recent work on COVID-19 therapeutic candidates and microbial communication in the rhizosphere. A mentor to students and a skilled user of advanced analytical tools, Dr. Mhlongo stands out for his contributions to both fundamental and applied biosciences. His growing leadership in academia, dedication to interdisciplinary research, and impactful scientific output position him as a strong contender for prestigious research awards.

Professional Profile 

🎓 Education of Dr. Msizi Innocent Mhlongo

Dr. Msizi Innocent Mhlongo’s academic journey reflects a strong foundation in the life sciences, all earned from the University of Johannesburg. He began with a Bachelor of Science in Botany and Biochemistry in 2012, followed by a BSc Honours in Biochemistry in 2013. Demonstrating academic excellence, he completed his MSc in Biochemistry with distinction in 2015. His pursuit of advanced scientific inquiry culminated in a PhD in Biochemistry, awarded in May 2020. Further highlighting his commitment to leadership in academia, Dr. Mhlongo also completed an Emerging Leader Development Programme with distinction in December 2022. His educational path showcases a blend of scientific rigor and leadership preparation.

💼 Professional Experience of Dr. Msizi Innocent Mhlongo

Dr. Msizi Innocent Mhlongo has built a dynamic and progressive career in academia and research, primarily at the University of Johannesburg. He currently holds the position of Head of the Department of Biochemistry (as of August 2025) and serves as a Senior Lecturer since January 2022. His earlier roles include Lecturer (2020–2022), Assistant Lecturer (2018–2020), and Research Assistant (2018), showcasing a steady academic ascent. He also gained research experience as a Junior Researcher at the University of the Free State in 2015 and served as a Student Practical Demonstrator from 2013 to 2017. Throughout his career, Dr. Mhlongo has contributed to research, student mentorship, and departmental leadership, establishing himself as a committed educator and an influential researcher in biochemistry and metabolomics.

🔬 Research Interests of Dr. Msizi Innocent Mhlongo

Dr. Msizi Innocent Mhlongo’s research interests lie at the intersection of biochemistry, metabolomics, plant–microbe interactions, and phytochemical drug discovery. He specializes in using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to profile complex biological systems, particularly focusing on plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), microbial signaling, and the biochemical mechanisms underlying plant defense. His work also extends to network pharmacology and molecular docking, identifying therapeutic potential in natural compounds—especially against diseases such as COVID-19 and malaria. Through integrative omics approaches and computational biology tools, Dr. Mhlongo aims to decode the chemical language of plant-microbe interactions and translate bioactive metabolite research into pharmaceutical and agricultural innovations.

🏆 Awards and Honors of Dr. Msizi Innocent Mhlongo

Dr. Msizi Innocent Mhlongo has been recognized for both his academic excellence and leadership potential. A notable achievement includes earning distinction in the prestigious Emerging Leader Development Programme at the University of Johannesburg in December 2022, underscoring his dedication to personal and professional growth in academic leadership. While his early career is still unfolding, his growing citation metrics, senior academic roles, and impactful research publications signal a trajectory marked by scholarly recognition. These accomplishments position him as a rising figure in biochemical and metabolomics research, with strong potential for future national and international honors.

🏁 Conclusion

Dr. Msizi Innocent Mhlongo is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award based on his scientific productivity, methodological expertise, leadership, and thematic relevance. His scholarly journey shows depth in metabolomics and plant–microbe biochemistry, contributing valuable insights, especially in PGPR (plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria), medicinal plants, and antimicrobial research.

Publications Top Noted📚

  1.  Title: Exploring the intricacies of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria interactions: an omics review
     Authors: Mmotla, K., Sibanyoni, N. R., Allie, F., Sitole, L., Mafuna, T., Mashabela, M. D., Mhlongo, M. I.
     Journal: Annals of Microbiology
     Year: 2025
     Citations: 4

        2. Title: Molecular docking and network pharmacology highlight salvianolic acids as potential inhibitors and therapeutic agents for COVID-19 treatment
            Authors: Msobo, A., Mashabela, M. D., Koorsen, G., Tsotetsi, T. N., Piater, L. A., Madala, N. E., Tshiwawa, T., Mhlongo, M. I.
            Journal: Phytochemistry Letters
           Year: 2025
           Citations: 0

Bechan Sharm | Biology and Life Sciences | Outstanding Scientist Award

Bechan Sharm | Biology and Life Sciences | Outstanding Scientist Award

Professor of Biochemistry, University of Allahabad, India

Prof. Dr. Bechan Sharma is a distinguished Indian biochemist with a career spanning over three decades. Currently a Professor at the University of Allahabad, he is renowned for his work in molecular biology, virology, biochemical toxicology, and nanobiotechnology. With a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Banaras Hindu University and CDRI-Lucknow, his research has contributed significantly to the understanding of tropical diseases, free radical biology, and drug discovery. He is recognized globally for his impactful publications, international collaborations, and advisory roles. A passionate educator and mentor, Prof. Sharma has guided numerous students and scientists. His commitment to science is also reflected in his leadership roles, including Head of Department and Dean positions. Ranked among the world’s top 2% scientists by Stanford University, he remains at the forefront of interdisciplinary biomedical research, promoting innovative science and academic excellence both in India and globally.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Prof. Dr. Bechan Sharma is a distinguished Indian biochemist and academician with over three decades of impactful contributions in molecular biology, virology, biochemical toxicology, and drug development. He currently serves as a Professor at the University of Allahabad, India, and has held various academic and administrative roles, including Head of Department and Dean. A prolific researcher, Prof. Sharma is ranked among the world’s top 2% scientists by Stanford University for multiple consecutive years. His work spans diverse areas such as tropical diseases, phytomedicine, nanobiotechnology, and environmental toxicology. With over 200 research publications and active involvement in global scientific committees, Prof. Sharma has significantly advanced our understanding of free radical biology and the therapeutic potential of natural compounds. He is also known for mentoring young researchers and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. His scholarly excellence and dedication to societal health make him an ideal candidate for the Outstanding Scientist Award.

Experience

Prof. Dr. Bechan Sharma’s academic journey reflects excellence from the start. He completed his High School and Intermediate education from the U.P. Board with First Division, receiving distinctions in core science subjects. He earned a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Botany, Zoology, and Chemistry (1980), followed by an M.Sc. in Biochemistry (1982), both from the prestigious Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi. He then pursued his Ph.D. in Biochemistry from BHU and CDRI-Lucknow, awarded in 1988. His doctoral research focused on the purification and characterization of key enzymes from the filarial parasite Setaria cervi, laying the foundation for his work in tropical disease research. Over the years, he enhanced his expertise through international training and certifications in chemical safety, biohazards, radiation safety, and bioinformatics from institutions in the USA, India, and The Netherlands. His academic foundation is strongly multidisciplinary, blending classical biochemistry with cutting-edge molecular and environmental sciences. 📘🧪

Awards & Honors

Prof. Sharma has received numerous prestigious accolades. Notably, he was ranked among the top 2% of scientists globally by Stanford University in 2022, 2023, and 2024. In 2024, he received the Global Health Award by the Volkswagen Foundation in Germany. His national recognitions include the Excellence in Academics and Research Award (2023, University of Allahabad) and Paryavaran Ratan Award (2022) by ABRF. In 2023, he was honored with the Birendra Singh Memorial Glocal Award for social service. His international exposure includes scholarships from Virology Education, The Netherlands, for attending major workshops on HIV and aging. His leadership roles include serving as a keynote speaker, chairman, and organizing committee member for international scientific summits across Italy, Japan, Belgium, and the UK. Prof. Sharma’s awards reflect not only scientific excellence but also his impact on public health, education, and environmental sustainability. 🥇🌿

Research Focus

Prof. Sharma’s multidisciplinary research spans molecular biology, virology, biochemical toxicology, phytomedicine, free radical biology, and nanobiotechnology. His early work on filarial parasite enzymes led to impactful insights into tropical disease mechanisms. He has contributed to drug development research for metabolic disorders, neurodegeneration, and infectious diseases, including HIV. His studies on phytochemicals, probiotics, and herbal medicine reflect a deep interest in sustainable therapeutics. Prof. Sharma has also made significant strides in green nanotechnology, notably in silver and gold nanoparticle synthesis using plant extracts for biomedical applications. He integrates traditional Indian medicinal knowledge with modern science to address pressing health issues such as diabetes, liver toxicity, and heavy metal contamination. His commitment to translational research, combining lab findings with public health outcomes, makes him a global thought leader in biochemistry and allied fields. ⚗️🌿🧬

Publication Top Notes

Parthenium leaf extract mediated synthesis of silver nanoparticles: a novel approach towards weed utilization.

Water pollution with special reference to pesticide contamination in India

Analysis of some heavy metals in the riverine water, sediments and fish from river Ganges at Allahabad

Inhibitory activity of Indian spice plant Cinnamomum zeylanicum extracts against Alternaria solani and Curvularia lunata, the pathogenic dematiaceous moulds

Toxicological effects of berberine and sanguinarine

Biochemical and molecular bases of lead-induced toxicity in mammalian systems and possible mitigations

Flower-based green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles: Applications beyond fragrance

Green Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Leaf Extract of Carissa carandas L. and Their Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activity against Human Pathogenic …

 

 

Viktor Viglasky | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Viktor Viglasky | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr Viktor Viglasky, P.J.Safarik University in Kosice, Slovakia

Based on the extensive qualifications and contributions of Associate Professor Dr. Viktor Víglaský, he appears to be a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication profile

Orcid

Research for Best Researcher Award: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Viktor Víglaský

Training, Preparation, and Participation in International Projects
Dr. Viktor Víglaský has an impressive track record of representing Slovakia in numerous international research initiatives, including significant EU COST projects such as Epigenetic Chemical Biology and MP0802. He has also contributed to the MARCY project and completed scientific internships in prestigious institutions like INSERM in Paris. His academic journey includes a full university degree in Biochemistry from Charles University, equipping him with a solid foundation in biochemistry, molecular biology, and biophysics.

Awards and Recognitions

His commitment to research and education has been recognized through several awards, including the Young Researcher of the Year in the Slovak Republic (2000) and the Dean’s Award for Teaching Activity (2019).

Research and Educational Contributions

Dr. Víglaský has supervised a substantial number of graduate students, guiding 7 PhD candidates, 35 master’s theses, and 18 bachelor theses. His teaching encompasses a broad spectrum of subjects related to biochemistry and molecular biology, demonstrating his dedication to student education.

Publications and Impact

He has authored 34 articles in esteemed scientific journals indexed in WoS and Scopus, accumulating around 900 citations, with a notable H-index of 18. His published works, such as research on G-quadruplexes, have contributed significantly to advancing knowledge in the field.

Research Projects

Dr. Víglaský has been the responsible investigator for several noteworthy projects, exploring innovative topics like self-assembling G-DNA structures and the role of hypoxia in cardiovascular risks. His collaborative efforts and contributions to projects involving G-quadruplexes have underscored his impact on both basic and applied research.

Publication top notes

G-QINDER Tool: Bioinformatically Predicted Formation of Different Four-Stranded DNA Motifs from (GT)n and (GA)n Repeats

Given Dr. Víglaský’s extensive experience, significant research output, and dedication to education, he exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional researcher. His contributions not only advance scientific understanding but also inspire the next generation of scientists.