Shedrack Mgeni | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Shedrack Mgeni | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mkwawa University College of Education, Tanzania 

Shedrack Thomas Mgeni is a dedicated Tanzanian researcher and educator with over 16 years of experience teaching Chemistry and Biology. He holds a Master of Science in Biology with Education from the University of Dar es Salaam (2024), where his research focused on bioethanol production from fruit wastes—an innovative solution contributing to clean energy and the circular economy. Mgeni has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals on bioenergy generation, with over 11 impactful publications between 2024 and 2025. His work earned him the “Distinguished Innovator of the Year 2024” award from the University of Dar es Salaam. In addition to his research, he plays a leadership role in secondary education as an Academic Master at Miyuji Secondary School. Passionate about environmental conservation, sustainable energy, and improving livelihoods through science, Mgeni actively participates in research conferences and community-based development initiatives, making him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

🎓 Education of Shedrack Mgeni

Shedrack Mgeni’s educational journey reflects a strong foundation in science and education. He began his studies at Lugoda Primary School (1994–2000) and proceeded to Kibao Secondary School (2001–2004) and Kidugala Lutheran Seminary (2005–2007). He earned a Diploma in Secondary Science Education (Chemistry & Biology) from Morogoro Teachers College in 2010, laying the groundwork for his teaching career. He later pursued a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Biology with Education at Sokoine University of Agriculture, graduating in 2015. His academic path culminated with a Master of Science in Biology with Education from the University of Dar es Salaam in 2024, where he conducted pioneering research on bioethanol production from fruit wastes. This solid academic background underpins both his teaching excellence and innovative research in bioenergy.

💼 Professional Experience of Shedrack Mgeni

Shedrack Mgeni has amassed over 16 years of experience in teaching Chemistry and Biology across various secondary schools in Tanzania, demonstrating unwavering commitment to science education. His career began in 2007 at Matola Secondary School in Njombe, where he also served as Head of Department. Over the years, he contributed to institutions such as St. Gertrude, Mabatini, Kifanya, Ilowola, and Mbeya Day High School, gaining diverse teaching and leadership experiences. Since 2021, he has been serving at Miyuji Secondary School in Dodoma, where he currently holds the roles of Academic Master and Sports & Games Master, overseeing both academic programs and extracurricular development. His practical teaching is enriched by hands-on research, making him a role model in integrating scientific innovation with classroom learning.

🔬 Research Interest of Shedrack Mgeni

Shedrack Mgeni’s research interests center on bioenergy generation from organic waste, with a strong emphasis on bioethanol production from fruit wastes as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels. His work aligns with global goals for clean energy, environmental conservation, and the promotion of the circular economy. He is particularly passionate about utilizing agricultural and fruit residues to develop renewable energy solutions that are both cost-effective and scalable, especially in developing regions. Through his research, Mgeni aims to improve human health, reduce environmental pollution, and contribute to energy security by advancing practical, waste-to-energy technologies.

🏅 Awards and Honors of Shedrack Mgeni

Shedrack Mgeni has been recognized for his innovative contributions to sustainable energy research with the prestigious “Distinguished Innovator of the Year 2024” award from the University of Dar es Salaam. This honor was granted in recognition of his groundbreaking work on bioethanol production from fruit wastes—an environmentally friendly approach to renewable energy. His research was also showcased during the 9th University of Dar es Salaam Research and Innovation Week 2024, where he presented projects focused on converting bio-waste into value-added energy products. These accolades highlight his impactful role in advancing clean energy solutions and his commitment to addressing global challenges through practical and community-driven science.

✅ Conclusion

Shedrack M. Mgeni exhibits a compelling combination of high‑quality research output, educational leadership, and a clear focus on sustainable bioenergy innovation—qualities eminently fitting for the Best Researcher Award. Strengthening his profile through competitive grant funding, interdisciplinary collaborations, and expanded academic leadership roles will further elevate his candidacy and ensure sustained impact in the field of renewable energy.

📚 Publications of Shedrack Thomas Mgeni

  1. Title: Potential Contributions of Cashew Apple Juice to Nutrition, Medicine and Bioethanol Generation: An Outlook
    Authors: Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya, Shedrack Thomas Mgeni, Jovine Kamuhabwa Emmanuel
    Year: 2025
    Citation/DOI: 10.1177/1934578X251357414

  2. Title: Bioethanol production from fruit wastes juice using millet and sorghum as additional fermentable sugar
    Authors: Shedrack Thomas Mgeni, Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya, Jovine Kamuhabwa Emmanuel
    Year: 2025
    Citation/DOI: 10.1016/j.cles.2025.100177

  3. Title: Potential Contributions of Pineapple Waste to Nutrition, Medicine, Bioenergy Sources, and Environmental Conservation: A Review
    Authors: Shedrack Thomas Mgeni, Jovine Kamuhabwa Emmanuel, Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya
    Year: 2025
    Citation/DOI: 10.1177/1934578X251348402

  4. Title: Utilizing fruit wastes as a sustainable feedstock for bioethanol production: A review
    Authors: Shedrack Thomas Mgeni, Herieth Rhodes Mero, Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya, Jovine Kamuhabwa Emmanuel
    Year: 2025
    Citation/DOI: 10.1016/j.cles.2025.100188

  5. Title: Bioethanol production from concentrated fruit wastes’ juice enhanced with fermentable sugar from millet (Panicum miliaceum)
    Authors: Jovine Emmanuel, Shedrack Thomas Mgeni, Jonas Balengayabo Gervas, Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya
    Year: 2025
    Citation/DOI: 10.1080/17597269.2024.2432157

  6. Title: Quality of Bioethanol Produced from Concentrated Fruit Waste Juice Augmented with Sorghum as Additional Fermentable Sugar
    Authors: Shedrack Thomas Mgeni, Jonas Balengayabo Gervas, Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya, Jovine Kamuhabwa Emmanuel
    Year: 2025
    Citation/DOI: 10.1007/s12355-025-01596-0

  7. Title: Bioethanol production from concentration fruit wastes juice using bakery yeast
    Authors: Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya, Shedrack Thomas Mgeni, Jovine Kamuhabwa Emmanuel
    Year: 2025
    Citation/DOI: 10.1007/s40243-024-00283-6

  8. Title: Potential Contributions of Banana Fruits and Residues to Multiple Applications: An Overview
    Authors: Jovine Kamuhabwa Emmanuel, Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya, Shedrack Thomas Mgeni
    Year: 2025
    Citation/DOI: 10.1177/1934578X251320151

  9. Title: Bioethanol production from dilute fruit wastes using sorghum as additional fermentable sugar
    Authors: Shedrack Thomas Mgeni, Herieth Rhodes Mero, Jonas Balengayabo Gervas, Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya, Jovine Emmanuel
    Year: 2025
    Citation/DOI: 10.1080/17597269.2024.2371211

  10. Title: Bioethanol production from pineapple fruit waste juice using bakery yeast
    Authors: Shedrack Thomas Mgeni, Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya, Jovine Kamuhabwa Emmanuel
    Year: 2024
    Citation/DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e38172

  11. Title: The prospect of fruit wastes in bioethanol production: A review
    Authors: Shedrack Thomas Mgeni, Herieth Rhodes Mero, Lewis Atugonza Mtashobya, Jovine Kamuhabwa Emmanuel
    Year: 2024
    Citation/DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e38776

 

 

 

Mar Villamiel | Biology and Life Sciences | Women Researcher Award

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

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

Google Scholar

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

 

 

Salwa Bouabdallah | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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.