Buddhi Fernando | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Buddhi Fernando | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr Buddhi Fernando, Department of MLS, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Ruhuna, Galle, Sri Lanka

Dr. Buddhi Fernando is a dedicated academic and clinical biochemist from Sri Lanka 🇱🇰, currently serving as a Lecturer at the Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Ruhuna. With a Ph.D. in Clinical Biochemistry from the University of Peradeniya 🎓, Dr. Fernando has pioneered studies on Chronic Kidney Disease of uncertain etiology (CKDu), identifying biomarkers for diagnosis, staging, and risk prediction 🧬🩺. With experience in teaching Clinical Biochemistry, Andrology, Microbiology, and more, she has inspired many students while conducting impactful research. Her award-winning research presentations and global exposure, including a scholarship to Japan 🌏, reflect her academic excellence. Dr. Fernando has co-authored numerous high-impact publications in reputed journals and remains passionate about translational science that directly benefits vulnerable communities. Her persistent pursuit of knowledge, interdisciplinary collaborations, and commitment to public health place her among Sri Lanka’s most promising researchers 🌟📚🔬.

Publication Profile

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Education

Dr. Buddhi Fernando completed her Ph.D. in Clinical Biochemistry 🧪 at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, in 2020. Her dissertation focused on identifying a biomarker profile for CKDu and evaluating its utility in early diagnosis, staging, and risk stratification 🧬📊. She earned her B.Sc. in Medical Laboratory Science with a Second-Class Upper Division in 2014 from the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Peradeniya 🏥🔍. Her undergraduate research explored the impact of Diabetes Mellitus on heart function in ICR mice 🐭❤️. Earlier, she completed the G.C.E. Advanced Level Examination (2008) and G.C.E. Ordinary Level Examination (2002) with commendable results 🎓📘. Dr. Fernando’s academic training merges rigorous scientific methodology with a strong focus on public health relevance, especially in addressing rural disease burdens. Her scholarly foundation has been crucial in supporting her innovative research into CKDu, a condition affecting thousands in Sri Lanka 🩺🌱.

Experience

Dr. Buddhi Fernando has over six years of academic and teaching experience 📚. From November 2019 to date, she has served as a Lecturer (Probationary and then permanent) at the Department of Medical Laboratory Science, University of Ruhuna 🏫. Her teaching responsibilities span Clinical Biochemistry, Microbiology, Andrology, Physiology, and Parasitology 🧫🧠. She has also taken on leadership roles as Batch Coordinator and Unit Coordinator. Previously, she was a Demonstrator at the University of Peradeniya (2018–2019) and a Lecturer at IVA Para Medical Campus, Kandy (2018) 🧪. She is registered with the Sri Lanka Medical Council (Reg. No. 2478) 🧾. Her hands-on academic guidance and innovative methodologies help bridge theoretical learning with practical healthcare applications. Dr. Fernando’s commitment to education and mentorship has left a positive impact on future generations of medical laboratory professionals.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Buddhi Fernando’s excellence in research and academia has earned her several prestigious accolades 🌟. In 2012, she was awarded a scholarship for the Global Health Student Exchange Program at Niigata University, Japan, recognizing her early promise in global public health 🌍🇯🇵. In 2017, she won First Place for the Best Oral Presentation at the Research Sessions of the Kandy Society of Medicine 🥇🎤, showcasing her talent in communicating scientific breakthroughs effectively. Her outstanding scholarly output is reflected in numerous publications across high-impact journals such as PLoS ONE, Kidney International Reports, and Environmental Geochemistry and Health 📑📈. As a unit coordinator and mentor, her academic leadership has also been instrumental in enhancing research culture among peers and students 🧑‍🎓🔬. These honors exemplify her capability to contribute significantly to science, education, and community health — making her a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award 🏅📚🧪.

Research Focus

Dr. Buddhi Fernando’s research primarily centers on Chronic Kidney Disease of uncertain etiology (CKDu)—a pressing health crisis in Sri Lanka’s rural communities 🏞️🩺. Her Ph.D. work focused on identifying biomarker templates for CKDu and evaluating their utility for early detection, population screening, diagnosis, staging, and predicting complications 🧬💉. Her multidisciplinary approach integrates biochemical profiling, environmental toxicology, and molecular diagnostics to uncover the complex pathophysiology of CKDu. Beyond CKDu, she also explores diabetes-related cardiac effects and trace element imbalances ⚖️❤️. Dr. Fernando’s work has high translational value, aiming to bridge the gap between laboratory science and community health solutions 🧪🤝. Her collaborations with nephrologists, toxicologists, and global health experts reflect her broad academic network and research adaptability 🌐. Her contributions are vital to designing affordable, effective diagnostics for low-resource settings — making her research both locally relevant and globally significant 🌎📊🧠.

Publication Top Notes

Serum and urine fluoride levels in populations of high environmental fluoride exposure with endemic CKDu: a case–control study from Sri Lanka

 

Hiranmoy Das | Biology and Life Sciences | Lifetime achievement Award

Hiranmoy Das | Biology and Life Sciences | Lifetime achievement Award

Prof Hiranmoy Das, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, United States

Prof. Hiranmoy Das, MSc, PhD, FAHA, is a renowned biochemist and pharmacologist with a distinguished career. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Calcutta and has postdoctoral training from prestigious institutions like Harvard Medical School and the Hyogo Institute of Clinical Research. Currently a Professor at Texas Tech University, his research focuses on cardiovascular stem cell therapies, regenerative medicine, and immunology. He has received numerous awards, including induction into the National Academy of Inventors and the American Heart Association. Prof. Das has authored several publications and holds multiple patents. 🌟📚💉🔬🧬

Publication Profile

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Education

Prof. Hiranmoy Das holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of Calcutta (1995) and has extensive academic training in zoology, advanced cytogenetics, immunology, and biology. He completed postdoctoral fellowships at prestigious institutions, including Harvard Medical School (1999-2002) and Hyogo Institute of Clinical Research, Japan (1996-1999). Prof. Das has held prominent roles, such as Professor at Texas Tech University (2016-present) and Associate Professor at The Ohio State University (2008-2016). He also directed cardiovascular stem cell research laboratories. His remarkable career spans over decades, focusing on innovative research in the fields of biochemistry and immunology. 📚💉🔬

Honors and Awards

Prof. Hiranmoy Das, a distinguished researcher and educator, has received numerous accolades for his groundbreaking contributions. In 2024, he was elected as a Fellow of the National Academy of Inventors. He was inducted into the prestigious Sigma Xi in 2023 and awarded the President’s Excellence in Research Award in 2022. As a tenured professor at Texas Tech University, he earned the Chancellor’s Council Distinguished Research Award in 2021. His honors also include the American Heart Association Fellowship (2021) and a Keynote Speaker role at an International Conference in 2018. Earlier awards include the NIH K01 Award and National Merit Scholarship. 🏆🔬🎓

Experiences

Prof. Hiranmoy Das has taught a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional courses at TTUHSC, including leadership roles in Pharmaceutical Sciences Research (G) in Spring, Summer, and Fall sessions from 2021 to 2024 📚. He led courses like Clinical Correlation-6 and Integrated Therapy and Practice VII, as well as Experimental Design and Biostatistics 🧪. Prof. Das has mentored students in clinical and research settings, contributing significantly to pharmaceutical education 💡. His commitment to fostering academic growth is reflected in his continued leadership in research-focused courses, impacting future professionals in the field of pharmaceutical sciences 🎓.

PhD Thesis

Prof. Hiranmoy Das appears to be heavily involved in mentoring and advising graduate students, particularly in the fields related to pharmacy, veterinary medicine, and health sciences. His research likely focuses on advanced pharmaceutical sciences, drug development, and therapeutics. With his role in advising students pursuing PhD and MS theses, his research could be centered around pharmaceutical applications, medicinal chemistry, or pharmacology. Given his involvement in both veterinary and pharmacy programs, his research may also bridge the gap between human and veterinary health, focusing on biomedical sciences, drug formulations, and therapeutics for both sectors. 📚💊🐾👩‍🔬👨‍🔬

Research Focus

Hiranmoy Das focuses on molecular and cellular biology, particularly related to vascular biology, immunology, and inflammation. His research delves into the roles of Kruppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) in endothelial cells, immune responses, and its regulatory functions in cardiovascular health. He also investigates autophagy, cell death, and ischemic stroke therapies, emphasizing the use of assays for monitoring these processes. His work highlights the role of phytochemicals in cancer prevention and the immune system’s effector functions. Das has made significant contributions to understanding cellular signaling and disease mechanisms, with implications for therapeutic development. 🔬💉🧬🫀

Publication Profile

Guidelines for the use and interpretation of assays for monitoring autophagy (4th edition)1

Guidelines for the use and interpretation of assays for monitoring autophagy in higher eukaryotes

Guidelines for the use and interpretation of assays for monitoring cell death in higher eukaryotes

Current advances in ischemic stroke research and therapies

MICA engagement by human Vγ2Vδ2 T cells enhances their antigen-dependent effector function

Kruppel-like factor 2 as a novel mediator of statin effects in endothelial cells

Kruppel-like factor 2 (KLF2) regulates proinflammatory activation of monocytes

CD1-mediated γ/δ T cell maturation of dendritic cells

 

 

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

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

Alexander Cerwenka | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Alexander Cerwenka | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr Alexander Cerwenka, SNSB-ZSM, Germany

Dr. Alexander Cerwenka is a dedicated technical assistant at SNSB-Zoologische Staatssammlung München, overseeing the operation, maintenance, and supervision of light microscopy equipment, Micro-CT, and scanning electron microscope since August 2016. He also serves in the Evertebrata varia section. From October 2016 to May 2018, he was a scientific associate at SNSB, working on the “BioniCut” project for high-performance saw blades. Previously, he was a research associate at the Technical University of Munich, studying the invasion front of Neogobius melanostomus in the upper Danube River. 🌊🔬🦠🪚📊

Publication profile

google scholar

Education

2010-2014: Ph.D. in Aquatic System Biology 🐠 Research on evolutionary, population genomic, and ecological mechanisms of simultaneous invasion processes of two closely related fish species (Neogobius ssp.) in the upper Danube. 2008-2009: Preparation of DFG Application for Ph.D. 🎓 Focus: Evolutionary, population genomic, and ecological mechanisms of simultaneous invasion processes of two closely related fish species (Neogobius ssp.) in the upper Danube. 2002-2007: Studied Biology at the Technical University of Munich 📘

Experience

Since 8/2016: Technical Assistant 🔬 Managing all light microscopy equipment, micro-CT, and scanning electron microscopes. Since 8/2016: Technical Assistant in the Evertebrata varia section 🦋 10/2016-5/2018: Scientific Employee 🛠️
Project: “Bionically optimized high-performance saw blades for woodworking (BioniCut)”.

Awards

Rüdiger-Riehl-Preis 2015 🏆 In recognition of scientific achievements in the dissertation: “Phenotypic and genetic differentiation of invasive gobies in the upper Danube River.”

Research focus

Dr. Andreas F. Cerwenka’s research focuses on the ecology and invasion biology of aquatic species, particularly invasive gobies in European rivers. His studies explore the ecological impacts, dispersal patterns, and adaptive strategies of invasive species like the round goby (Neogobius melanostomus) and their effects on native ecosystems. Through field experiments and molecular analyses, Cerwenka investigates how environmental conditions and human activities influence the success and spread of these invasions. His work also includes evaluating methods for population assessment and the impacts of invasive species on native biodiversity. 🌊🔬🐟🌍📊

Publication top notes

Bigger is better: characteristics of round gobies forming an invasion front in the Danube River

Comparative feeding ecology of invasive Ponto-Caspian gobies

A systematic approach to evaluate the influence of environmental conditions on eDNA detection success in aquatic ecosystems

Effects of sampling techniques on population assessment of invasive round goby Neogobius melanostomus

Shell morphological versus genetic identification of quagga mussel (Dreissena bugensis) and zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha)

Invasion strategies in round goby (Neogobius melanostomus): Is bigger really better?

Synergistic impacts by an invasive amphipod and an invasive fish explain native gammarid extinction

Isotope evidence for preferential dispersal of fast-spreading invasive gobies along man-made river bank structures

Phenotypic differentiation of Ponto-Caspian gobies during a contemporary invasion of the upper Danube River

Population trends of invasive alien gobies in the upper Danube River: 10 years after first detection of the globally invasive round goby (Neogobius melanostomus)

Stelios Vasilopoulos | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Stelios Vasilopoulos | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr Stelios Vasilopoulos, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece

Stelios Vasilopoulos, MSc in Food Technology and Quality Assurance from the University of Reading (2003), is a researcher at the University of Thessaly’s Telecommunications & Networks Laboratory since 2018 📚🔬. He has extensive experience in project management, focusing on smart specialization and technology development in the food and feed industry 🌱🐔. Previously, he co-founded Mamasfood Catering Ltd and worked at DO & CO Event & Airline Catering Ltd as a Process Manager 🍴✈️. Stelios has participated in numerous international projects, published multiple research papers, and is a frequent speaker at academic conferences 📑🌍.

Publication profile

orcid

Education

👩‍🎓 In June 2003, I earned my MSc in Food Technology and Quality Assurance from the University of Reading, UK. Since January 2018, I have been a researcher at the University of Thessaly’s Telecommunications & Networks Laboratory, focusing on smart specialization and technology development in food and agriculture. 🧑‍💼 As co-founder and CEO of Mamasfood Catering Ltd (2015-2016), I managed an online restaurant in London. At DO & CO Event & Airline Catering Ltd (2011-2015), I was a Process Manager. 🥗 Previously, I held various roles at Bakkavor Group (2006-2011) and Katsouris Fresh Foods Ltd (2003-2006), enhancing production efficiency and quality assurance. 🌐🗣️ I speak English and French.

Research focus

Stelios Vasilopoulos’s research focuses on the use of insect larvae as sustainable feed additives in livestock production. Key studies include the effects of black soldier fly, mealworm, and superworm on broiler growth and antioxidant activity under heat stress. His work also examines the impact of whole insect larvae on intestinal morphology and microbiota of broilers. Notable publications cover broiler diets replaced with Tenebrio molitor larvae, as well as flaxseed and lupins in dairy cow diets. Vasilopoulos’s contributions highlight advancements in livestock nutrition and sustainability 🐔🐛🌾📈.

Publication top notes

Black soldier fly, mealworm and superworm: chemical composition and comparative effect on broiler growth

Effect of three different insect larvae on growth performance and antioxidant activity of thigh, breast, and liver tissues of chickens reared under mild heat stress

Diet replacement with whole insect larvae affects intestinal morphology and microbiota of broiler chickens

Sustainable Use of Feed Additives in Livestock

Growth performance, welfare traits and meat characteristics of broilers fed diets partly replaced with whole Tenebrio molitor larvae

Feeding Flaxseed and Lupins during the Transition Period in Dairy Cows: Effects on Production Performance, Fertility and Biochemical Blood Indices

Composition, Organoleptic Characteristics, Fatty Acid Profile and Oxidative Status of Cow’s Milk and White Cheese after Dietary Partial Replacement of Soybean Meal with Flaxseed and Lupin

Zsuzsanna Izsvak | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Zsuzsanna Izsvak | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr Zsuzsanna Izsvak, Max Delbruck Center for Molecular Medicine, Germany

Dr. Zsuzsanna Izsvák is a distinguished geneticist and the Permanent Group Leader of Mobile DNA at Max-Delbrück-Center in Berlin, Germany. Renowned for her pioneering work on the Sleeping Beauty transposon system 🧬, she has revolutionized gene therapy and genome engineering. With over 17,000 citations and an H-index of 67 📚, her research spans transposon-based genome manipulations, stem cell technology, and translational applications in cancer and gene therapy. Awarded the European Young Investigator Award, ERC Advanced Grants, and nominated for a Nobel Prize 🏆, Dr. Izsvák’s innovative contributions have had a profound impact on modern genetics.

Publiucation profile

google scholar

Education

In 1994, He earned my Ph.D. in Biology from the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. My post-doctoral journey included prestigious institutions such as the University of Minnesota and the Netherlands Cancer Institute in Amsterdam, NL. From 1991 to 1997, he served at the Hungarian Academy of Sciences, and from 1997 to 1999, He continued my research at the Medical University of Debrecen in Hungary. In 2011, He was recognized as an EMBO fellow and awarded a DSc. My academic focus has spanned Genetics, Molecular Biology, Molecular Genetics, and Human Genetics, culminating in my current role as a Professor 👩‍🔬📚🔬.

Honors

Dr Zsuzsanna Izsvak, a distinguished scientist in molecular biology, has garnered numerous accolades throughout a prolific career. Notable milestones include receiving the Excellence Award from the Hungarian Academy of Sciences in 1990 🏆, an EMBO long-term postdoctoral fellowship in 1996 🌍, and the prestigious EURYI European Young Investigator Award in 2004 🌟. Their groundbreaking work on SB100X earned them international acclaim, including the SB100X Molecule of the Year in 2009 and recognition from the European Society of Gene and Cell Therapy. Nominated for a Nobel Prize in 2011, Dr.  Zsuzsanna Izsvak continues to shape research, notably with ERC Advanced grants and leadership roles in scientific committees. Elected as a foreign member of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences in 2019, they now serve as President of the Dennis Gabor Gesellschaft since 2023 🌐.

Research focus

Based on their research focus, the authors primarily delve into the molecular characteristics, evolution, and applications of transposable elements (TEs), particularly the Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon. Their work spans from fundamental studies elucidating the structural and functional domains of TEs to pioneering applications in genetic manipulation across vertebrate species, including humans. They explore how TEs like SB can be harnessed as genetic tools for stable gene transfer and long-term transgene expression, highlighting their potential in molecular therapy and genome engineering. This research is crucial for understanding TE biology and exploiting their utility in biotechnological and biomedical contexts. 🧬🔬

Publication top notes

Molecular reconstruction of Sleeping Beauty, a Tc1-like transposon from fish, and its transposition in human cells

Ten things you should know about transposable elements

Molecular evolution of a novel hyperactive Sleeping Beauty transposase enables robust stable gene transfer in vertebrates

Somatic integration and long-term transgene expression in normal and haemophilic mice using a DNA transposon system

Resident aliens: the Tc1/mariner superfamily of transposable elements

Sleeping Beauty, a wide host-range transposon vector for genetic transformation in vertebrates

Primate-specific endogenous retrovirus-driven transcription defines naive-like stem cells

Gibbon genome and the fast karyotype evolution of small apes

Transposon-mediated genome manipulation in vertebrates

Progress and prospects in rat genetics: a community view