Baran Seven | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Academic Researcher Award

Dr. Baran Seven | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Academic Researcher Award

TST Rakor ve Tıbbi Aletler San ve Tic Ltd Sti | Turkey 

Dr. Baran Seven is a dedicated academic researcher in the field of Biology, specializing in toxicology, genotoxicity, and environmental health sciences. He completed his Ph.D. in Biology at Giresun University in 2022, following both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the same institution. His research primarily focuses on investigating the toxic effects of various environmental and chemical agents—such as pesticides, parabens, heavy metals, and synthetic additives—using in vivo models like Swiss albino mice and Allium cepa. He also explores the protective roles of natural plant extracts (e.g., grape seed, Nigella sativa, and nettle) against induced toxicity. Dr. Seven has contributed to numerous peer-reviewed national and international publications, including a notable article in Scientific Reports, and has presented at more than 25 scientific conferences. With experience in collaborative research projects and a consistent academic trajectory, he is emerging as a strong researcher in the field of experimental biology and environmental toxicology.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile

Education 

Dr. Baran Seven has pursued his entire academic journey in the field of Biology at Giresun University, Turkey. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Biology in 2013, laying a solid foundation in life sciences. He then completed his Master’s degree in 2015, focusing on toxicology with a thesis titled “Albino farelerde paraben tarafından teşvik edilen toksisiteye karşı ısırgan otu özütünün koruyucu rolünün araştırılması” (The protective role of nettle extract against paraben-induced toxicity in albino mice). Building on this expertise, he obtained his Ph.D. in Biology in 2022, with a comprehensive dissertation titled “Swiss albino farelerde sipermetrin toksisitesinin araştırılması: Fizyolojik, genetik ve biyokimyasal yaklaşım” (Investigation of cypermethrin toxicity in Swiss albino mice: A physiological, genetic, and biochemical approach). His academic progression reflects a strong and focused commitment to experimental toxicology and environmental biology.

Professional Experience 

Dr. Baran Seven has cultivated significant research experience in the fields of environmental toxicology, genotoxicity, and biological sciences through his active involvement in various academic projects and collaborative studies. He has served as a research assistant and co-investigator in multiple experimental research projects focusing on the physiological and genotoxic impacts of chemical substances—including parabens, lead, titanium dioxide, and pesticides—on animal and plant models. His work notably includes assessing the protective effects of natural compounds like Nigella sativa, carotene, and grape seed extract against chemically induced toxicity. In addition to project-based roles, Dr. Seven has contributed extensively to academic literature with research published in peer-reviewed journals and numerous presentations at national and international scientific conferences. His hands-on involvement in laboratory experiments and interdisciplinary teamwork highlights his strong technical skills and dedication to advancing public health-related biological research.

Research Interests 

Dr. Baran Seven’s research interests lie at the intersection of environmental toxicology, genotoxicity, and natural product pharmacology. He is particularly focused on exploring the toxic effects of environmental pollutants—such as pesticides (e.g., cypermethrin), heavy metals, and industrial chemicals—on living organisms, using both animal (Mus musculus) and plant (Allium cepa) model systems. A significant aspect of his work involves evaluating the protective and therapeutic potential of natural plant extracts (like Urtica dioica, Nigella sativa, and grape seed extract) against chemically induced oxidative stress and DNA damage. His multidisciplinary approach combines physiological, biochemical, and genetic analysis techniques, including the Comet assay and chromosomal aberration tests, to assess cellular responses to toxic exposure. Dr. Seven’s work aims to contribute to environmental health, public safety, and the development of natural alternatives to chemical-based interventions.

Awards and Honors 

While specific individual awards and honors are not explicitly listed in his academic record, Dr. Baran Seven’s scholarly contributions have been consistently recognized through his active participation in national and international scientific congresses, where he has presented numerous full-text papers and oral/poster presentations. His research has earned visibility in prestigious platforms such as the Scientific Reports journal, reflecting the academic merit and impact of his work in the field of toxicology and genotoxicology. His selection as a co-author and contributor in multiple collaborative projects also indicates the professional respect and trust he holds within his research community. Continued recognition through peer-reviewed publications and invitations to present at major scientific forums highlight his growing reputation as a promising researcher in environmental health and biological sciences.

Publications Top Noted

Title: Investigation of cypermethrin toxicity in Swiss albino mice with physiological, genetic and biochemical approaches

Year: 2022

Citations: 25

Conclusion

Dr. Baran Seven demonstrates strong potential and suitability for the Best Academic Researcher Award, particularly in the early-career or mid-career researcher category (age 34). His focused and original contributions to toxicology and genotoxicity, consistent publication record, and active conference engagement qualify him for recognition.

Oluwatobi Otun | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Oluwatobi Otun | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award 

Postdoctoral Reseacher, at University of the Witwatersrand (WITS), South Africa.

Dr. Oluwatobi Sarah Otun is a distinguished postdoctoral fellow at the University of the Witwatersrand’s Protein Structure-Function Research Unit in Johannesburg, South Africa. With a robust academic foundation, she holds a Ph.D. in Life Sciences from the University of South Africa (2020), an M.Sc. in Life Sciences (2015), and a B.Sc. in Microbiology from Lagos State University, Nigeria (2007). Her research spans microbiology, plant science, and molecular biology, focusing on protein biochemistry and omics technologies. Dr. Otun has authored over 15 peer-reviewed publications and has several articles in review. She actively mentors postgraduate students and contributes to various scientific journals as a reviewer. Her interdisciplinary approach and dedication to scientific advancement have established her as a prominent figure in her field. 🌱🔬📚weblogoa.com+1scitcentralconferences.com+1

Professional Profile

Scopus

ORCID

Education

Dr. Otun’s academic journey commenced with a B.Sc. in Microbiology from Lagos State University, Nigeria, where she investigated the survival of pathogens in traditional beverages. She then pursued an M.Sc. in Life Sciences at the University of South Africa, focusing on the microbiological and nutritional qualities of leafy vegetables. Her doctoral research delved into the transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic profiling of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, a phytopathogenic fungus, earning her a Ph.D. in Life Sciences in 2020. Her educational background laid a solid foundation for her interdisciplinary research endeavors. 🎓📘🧬weblogoa.com

Experience

Dr. Otun’s professional trajectory includes significant roles in research and clinical settings. She currently serves as a postdoctoral fellow at the University of the Witwatersrand, focusing on protein structure-function analysis and omics applications in pathogen studies. Previously, she worked as a microbiology researcher at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in Pretoria, South Africa, contributing to various scientific projects. Additionally, she gained clinical experience as a medical laboratory technician at Ayodele Medical Centre in Lagos, Nigeria. These positions have enriched her research perspective, blending theoretical knowledge with practical applications. 🔬🧪👩‍🔬

Research Interests

Dr. Otun’s research interests encompass several key areas:

  • Protein structure-function analysis of microbial and plant proteins.

  • Application of omics technologies (transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) in pathogen studies.

  • Cancer research, focusing on therapeutic targets and natural compounds.

  • Investigation of antimicrobial resistance mechanisms in ESKAPE pathogens.

  • Utilization of 3D cell culture models for cancer and drug response studies.

  • Engineering natural product biosynthesis for pharmaceutical applications.

  • Structure-based drug design using molecular docking and simulation tools.

  • Biotechnology-driven solutions for sustainable agriculture and food safety.
    Her interdisciplinary approach aims to bridge gaps between microbiology, biotechnology, and medicine. 🧬🧪🌿weblogoa.com+1scitcentralconferences.com+1

Awards

Dr. Otun’s exceptional contributions to science have been recognized through several prestigious awards:

  • 2023: Asia’s Outstanding Researcher Award by the Asia Research Awards, in association with Times of Research and the World Research Council, at ASTRA 2023.

  • 2025: Provisional Selection for Best Researcher Award by the International Research Hypothesis Excellence Award, recognizing her recent publication on muscadine grape extracts in cancer treatment.

  • 2025: UCL-Wits Preclinical 3D Modeling Team Science Award, awarded by the UCL-Wits University Strategic Partnership Platform for a meritorious project.
    These accolades underscore her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and innovation. 🏆🌍🔬

Top Noted Publications

Dr. Otun has an extensive publication record in renowned scientific journals

  1. Otun, S., & Ntushelo, K. (2020).
    Proteomic analysis of the phytogenic fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum.
    Journal of Chromatography B, 1144, 122053.
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2020.122053
  • Published in volume 1144 of Journal of Chromatography B.

  • Article number: 122053 (often journals use article numbers instead of page ranges).

2. Mbovane, M.M.S., Gangireddygari, V.S.R., Otun, O.S., & Ntushelo, K. (2021).
Phylogenetic Analysis of Selected Genes of Pectobacterium carotovorum Subsp. Brasiliense.
SSRN (preprint server).
DOI: 10.2139/ssrn.3992372

  • This is a preprint hosted on SSRN (Social Science Research Network).

  • No volume or issue because it’s a preprint.

3. Otun, S.O., Achilonu, I., & Ntushelo, K. (2022).
Proteomics analysis of the phytopathogenic fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum: a narrative review.
Journal of Bio-XResearch, 5(3), 112–117.
DOI: 10.1097/JBR.0000000000000130

  • Volume 5, Issue 3, pages 112 to 117.

4. Pooe, K., Thulo, M., Makumbe, H., Akumadu, B., Otun, O., Aloke, C., & Achilonu, I. (2022).
Biophysical description of Bromosulfophthalein interaction with the 28-kDa glutathione transferase from Schistosoma japonicum.
Molecular and Biochemical Parasitology, 252, 111524.
DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2022.111524

  • Volume 252, article number 111524.

5. Otun, S.O., & Ntushelo, K. (2024).
A data catalogue of alcohol dehydrogenases in the genome of a tissue macerating Pectobacterium brasiliense isolated from potato in South Africa.
Data in Brief, 52, 109918.
DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2023.109918 (likely based on journal’s DOI pattern)

  • Volume 52, article number 109918.

Conclusion

Dr. Oluwatobi Sarah Otun exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher deserving of the Best Researcher Award. Her strong academic foundation, impressive research output, innovative work with societal relevance, and active professional engagement position her as a leading candidate. While minor enhancements in international collaboration and impact metrics reporting could further bolster her profile, her contributions to molecular biology, biotechnology, and cancer research clearly demonstrate her excellence and significant impact in her field.

Binhui Zhou | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Binhui Zhou | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr Binhui Zhou, Institute of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Binhui Zhou is a leading researcher in molecular biology and neuroscience, renowned for his work in protein palmitoylation and its implications in cancer and immune disorders 🔬🧠. He earned his Ph.D. in Crop Genetics and Breeding from Hainan University and currently serves as an Associate Professor at the Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Neuroscience, Xinxiang Medical University 🎓🏥. With over a decade of research, Dr. Zhou has pioneered studies funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Henan Provincial Foreign Expert Project 🇨🇳🌟. His groundbreaking publications in top-tier journals have significantly advanced our understanding of cellular signaling in diseases such as hepatocellular carcinoma and atherosclerosis 🧬🩸. A highly respected peer reviewer for prestigious journals, he continues to shape the scientific community through innovation and collaboration 🤝📚. Dr. Zhou exemplifies excellence in research and stands as a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award 🏆✨.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Binhui Zhou’s educational journey reflects his strong commitment to bioscience and innovation 📘🧪. He began his academic career with a Bachelor’s degree in Bioengineering from Ningbo Institute of Technology, Zhejiang University (2005–2009) 🎓🔍. His passion for molecular and developmental biology led him to complete a Master’s degree in Developmental Biology at Hainan University (2010–2013), where he gained key insights into cell and tissue growth processes 🌱🧫. He pursued his Ph.D. at the same university in Crop Genetics and Breeding (2013–2017), where his research laid the foundation for his later studies on genetic regulation and disease pathways 🌾🧬. Throughout his education, Dr. Zhou displayed academic excellence, research depth, and a clear focus on translating fundamental biology into clinical relevance. His multidisciplinary academic background supports his current role as a prominent scientist exploring intersections of genetics, immunology, and neuroscience 🔍📖🧠.

Experience

Dr. Zhou began his academic career in 2017 as a Lecturer at the Institute of Neuropsychiatry and Neuroscience, Xinxiang Medical University 🏫🧠. Over seven years, he demonstrated outstanding research and teaching capabilities, contributing significantly to the fields of molecular biology and neuroimmunology 📚🔬. In 2024, he was promoted to Associate Professor in recognition of his impactful work on palmitoylation mechanisms and their clinical relevance in hepatocellular carcinoma and immune regulation 🧬🩺. His leadership in major research projects, such as NSFC Youth Program and Henan Foreign Expert Project, highlights his ability to lead innovative studies with real-world implications 🌍📊. In parallel, Dr. Zhou has served as a mentor to young scientists, shaping the next generation of researchers 👨‍🏫🌱. His dedication to cross-disciplinary collaboration and translational science continues to position him at the forefront of biomedical research.

Awards and Honors

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Binhui Zhou has received national recognition for his exceptional contributions to biomedical science 🧬🌟. As a Principal Investigator, he secured prestigious research grants, including the NSFC Youth Program and the Henan Provincial Foreign Expert Project, reflecting his leadership and innovation in high-impact studies 💡🧠. His work has been published in top-tier journals such as Cell Molecular Immunology, Theranostics, and Journal of Advanced Research, each with high impact factors and broad influence in global science communities 📈🌐. As an expert reviewer for journals like Communications Biology and Cell Communication and Signaling, he has helped uphold the integrity and quality of scientific publishing 📘🧪. Moreover, Dr. Zhou was appointed as a reviewer for the NSFC Youth Program, a mark of his standing in China’s scientific elite 🇨🇳📜. These accolades affirm his merit for the Best Researcher Award 🏅👏.

Research Focus

Dr. Zhou’s research primarily explores protein palmitoylation, a lipid modification process critical in regulating cellular signaling pathways in diseases such as cancer, atherosclerosis, and immune dysfunctions 🧪🧠. He focuses on zDHHC family palmitoyltransferases, particularly zDHHC1, zDHHC2, and zDHHC6, and their roles in modulating protein function in hepatocellular carcinoma and inflammatory responses 🔬🧬. His investigations have revealed mechanisms by which these enzymes control immune cell behavior and cancer cell proliferation, contributing to therapeutic target discovery 💊🔍. Notably, his studies on Foxp3 palmitoylation have uncovered novel immune regulatory pathways. Dr. Zhou also examines the PI3K-Akt-mTOR axis in relation to atherosclerosis, offering insights into cardiovascular disease treatment 🫀📊. His interdisciplinary approach bridges molecular biology, immunology, and neuroscience, pushing the boundaries of biomedical knowledge and guiding new treatment strategies across multiple health conditions 🤝🌍. His research stands at the forefront of cellular signaling and translational medicine 🚀🧫.

Publication Top Notes