Hani Serag | Nanomedicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hani Serag | Nanomedicine | Best Researcher Award

Director, Division of Global Partnerships at University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) | United States

Dr. Hani Serag is a physician and public health specialist with extensive experience in health systems research, global health, and addressing health disparities. Currently serving as Director of the Division of Global Partnerships and Assistant Professor at the Department of Population Health and Health Disparities, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), he leads multiple programs on chronic disease prevention, HIV screening, and global health diplomacy. With a strong history of academic, research, and policy leadership, Dr. Serag has collaborated with international organizations, academic institutions, and civil society networks to strengthen healthcare equity, health policy, and global partnerships.

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Education 

Dr. Hani Serag earned his MD (M.B., B.Ch) from the Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt. He holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from the School of Public Health, University of Western Cape, South Africa, focusing on health systems research, monitoring and evaluation, health promotion, and primary healthcare. He further enhanced his expertise with advanced training in epidemiology, health care finance, biostatistics, and both quantitative and qualitative public health research methods through certificate programs at Erasmus University, Rotterdam, the Netherlands. His academic training integrates medicine, epidemiology, and public health with a global and systems-oriented perspective.

Experience 

Dr. Hani Serag has held key academic and leadership roles at UTMB, including Assistant Professor in Population Health and Endocrinology and Director of Global Partnerships. He has served as Principal Investigator for programs on chronic disease prevention, HIV screening, and international educational collaborations. His professional record includes consultancy and teaching engagements with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the World Health Organization (WHO). He previously served as Global Coordinator and Associate Global Coordinator for the People’s Health Movement, leading international initiatives on primary healthcare, social determinants of health, and global health governance. His work bridges academia, policy, and practice.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Hani Serag contributions have been recognized through academic appointments across diverse disciplines including population health, internal medicine, pediatrics, and global health. His role as an Associate Member of the Graduate Faculty at UTMB highlights his mentorship of graduate students. He has been invited by WHO and PAHO for technical consultancies, curriculum development, and training programs, reflecting his international recognition in health systems and migration health research. Through his leadership in convening UTMB’s Annual Conference on Migration and Health and directing global health education initiatives, Dr. Serag has earned respect as a distinguished public health leader advancing health equity worldwide.

Research Focus 

Dr. Hani Serag research focuses on advancing health system responsiveness, reducing disparities, and integrating preventive care into clinical settings. His work emphasizes chronic disease prevention, HIV screening, and global health governance. He has designed and implemented multi-stakeholder programs that address the social determinants of health and promote patient-centered models of care. His scholarly contributions include health policy research, health systems evaluation, and migration and health studies. He has actively developed curricula, technical reports, and peer-reviewed publications to build capacity in health equity and health policy. His ongoing research strengthens global partnerships and evidence-based strategies in population health.

Publication Top Notes

Covid-19 pandemic and the social determinants of health

Explaining covid-19 performance: what factors might predict national responses?

High‐protein vs. standard‐protein diets in overweight and obese patients with heart failure and diabetes mellitus: findings of the Pro‐HEART trial

Improving the collection of race, ethnicity, and language data to reduce healthcare disparities: a case study from an academic medical center

Cultural diversity impacts caregiving experiences: a comprehensive exploration of differences in caregiver burdens, needs, and outcomes

Racial and geographic variation in leg amputations among Texans

Relative social standing and suicide ideation among Kenyan males: the interpersonal theory of suicide in context

Racial disparities in type of heart failure and hospitalization

Social determinants of health in countries in conflict and crises: the eastern Mediterranean perspective

Subjective social standing and conflict tactics among young Kenyan men

Illustrating the impact of commercial determinants of health on the global COVID-19 pandemic: Thematic analysis of 16 country case studies

Enabling structural resilience of street-involved children and youth in Kenya: reintegration outcomes and the Flourishing Community model

Understanding caregiver challenges: A comprehensive exploration of available resources to alleviate caregiving burdens

Coronavirus disease 2019, diabetes, and inflammation: A systemic review

Exploring the impact of ACA on rural‐urban disparity in oral health services among US noninstitutionalized adults

The association between mental well-being and school attendance among Palestinian adolescent refugees in UNRWA schools

Sapna B A | Cardiovascular Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sapna B A | Cardiovascular Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Assitant Professor at KIT-Kalaignarkarunanidhi Institute of Technology | India

Dr. Sapna B A is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of information and communication engineering, specializing in antenna design for biomedical, wearable, and wireless applications. With a strong foundation in electronics and communication, she has contributed significantly to developing advanced implantable and wearable antennas, focusing on safety and performance enhancements. Her career spans both academia and industry, with expertise ranging from teaching and mentoring to leading design projects in Dubai’s technology sector. Currently serving as Assistant Professor at Kalaignarkarunanidhi Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, she is recognized for impactful research, funded projects, and award-winning publications in reputed journals.

Publication Profile 

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Education 

Dr. Sapna B A earned her Ph.D. in Information and Communication Engineering from Anna University under the guidance of Dr. G. Srivatsun at PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore, with her thesis titled “High Performance Antennas for UWB Applications.” She completed her M.E. in Communication Systems from B S A Crescent Engineering College, Chennai, affiliated to Anna University, with a commendable. Her undergraduate studies were in Electronics and Communication Engineering at Jerusalem College of Engineering, University of Madras, where she obtained her B.E. degree. Her education has laid a strong academic foundation for her research in RF, antennas, and communication systems.

Experience 

Dr. Sapna B A has over two decades of diverse professional experience in academia and industry. She is currently an Assistant Professor at Kalaignarkarunanidhi Institute of Technology, Coimbatore, leading the Ansys 5G Antenna Innovation Hub and successfully completing AICTE-funded projects. Previously, she was a Research Scholar at PSG College of Technology, where she worked extensively on planar and UWB antenna development. Her academic journey also includes faculty positions at INFO Institute of Engineering, RVS College of Engineering, B S A Crescent Engineering College, and CSI College of Engineering. She also served in Dubai as a Design & Estimation Engineer.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Sapna B A has received several prestigious recognitions for her research and teaching excellence. She was honored with the Best Paper Award for her work on an implantable endoscopic antenna at an IEEE-sponsored international conference. She received the Faculty Excellence Award SNS Institutions for outstanding contributions in research and publication. Her dedication to impactful research has earned her multiple cash awards, Kalaignarkarunanidhi Institute of Technology. Her achievements highlight her commitment to innovation in antenna design and her consistent contributions to advancing communication engineering research.

Research Focus 

Dr. Sapna B A’s research is centered on high-performance antennas for wireless communication, wearable systems, and biomedical applications. She has specialized in designing compact, flexible, and biocompatible implantable antennas with low specific absorption rates to ensure patient safety in medical telemetry. Her work extends to planar and UWB antennas, bandwidth enhancement, gain improvement techniques, and frequency selective surfaces. She has contributed significantly to wearable antenna systems for healthcare monitoring, WBAN applications, and cancer detection. Through experimental validation and simulation studies, her research bridges practical biomedical needs with advanced RF design, positioning her as a leading contributor in antenna engineering.

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Gaetan Ligat | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gaetan Ligat | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gaetan Ligat at Toulouse University | France

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gaetan Ligat is a molecular virologist and principal investigator at Toulouse University, affiliated with INSERM UMR1291 and CNRS UMR5051. He leads the ViNeDys team at the Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, focusing on host–human cytomegalovirus interactions in brain tumors and therapeutic innovation. With extensive research and teaching experience across France, he has contributed to advancing antiviral strategies, mentoring young scientists, and promoting scientific communication. He is actively engaged in international collaborations, scientific societies, and community outreach, while securing multiple research grants to strengthen translational virology and oncology research.

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Education 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gaetan Ligat pursued his scientific training at Limoges University, France. He earned a Master of Science degree in Genetics and Physiology, which laid the foundation for his research career. He then advanced to doctoral studies at INSERM UMR1092, Limoges University, where he specialized in Molecular Virology, completing his PhD with distinction. His academic formation emphasized molecular biology, virus-host interactions, and translational virology, providing expertise in genetics, physiology, and applied biomedical sciences. This strong educational background enabled him to develop a career bridging fundamental research and therapeutic applications, particularly in virology, cancer biology, and innovative antiviral treatment strategies.

Experience 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gaetan Ligat is Associate Professor of Virology at Toulouse University, where he also serves as Principal Investigator and group leader of the ViNeDys team at the Infinity Institute. His work focuses on host–HCMV interactions and therapeutic innovation in brain tumors. Previously, he was a postdoctoral researcher at INSERM UMR1110 in Strasbourg, specializing in antiviral strategies. He began his research as a Master’s and PhD candidate at INSERM UMR1092, Limoges. Alongside research, he has coordinated training programs, practical courses, and supervised over 20 students. He is deeply involved in scientific societies, equality initiatives, and international collaborations.

Awards and Honors 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gaetan Ligat has received numerous prestigious recognitions, including the National Thesis Prize from the French Society of Microbiology and fellowships from the French National Agency for Research on AIDS and Viral Hepatitis (ANRS). He was awarded an ESCMID Research Grant, travel grants from the French Society of Microbiology, and registration bursaries for international congresses. His successful fundraising as principal investigator includes support from cancer foundations, patient associations, and Inserm/Regional PhD funding. These honors reflect both his scientific excellence and commitment to translational virology and oncology research. His awards highlight his impact on advancing antiviral and therapeutic research.

Research Focus 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gaetan Ligat research focuses on the molecular biology of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and its interaction with host cells, particularly in brain tumor environments. His work aims to understand how viral mechanisms contribute to disease progression and to identify novel therapeutic targets. He develops innovative antiviral strategies, including peptides and antibodies targeting HCMV protein interactions. His research also explores inflammatory responses, host-pathogen dynamics, and translational approaches for cancer treatment. Through collaborative projects and funded research programs, he seeks to bridge fundamental virology with therapeutic innovation, advancing the fight against viral infections and HCMV-related diseases in oncology.

Publication Top Notes

The human cytomegalovirus terminase complex as an antiviral target: a close-up view

Capsid assembly modulators as antiviral agents against HBV: molecular mechanisms and clinical perspectives

Hepatitis C virus (HCV)–apolipoprotein interactions and immune evasion and their impact on HCV vaccine design

Hepatitis B virus–host interactions and novel targets for viral cure

Hepatitis B virus core variants, liver fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma

Targeting viral cccDNA for cure of chronic hepatitis B

The Yin and the Yang of extracellular vesicles during viral infections

Structures and divergent mechanisms in capsid maturation and stabilization following genome packaging of human cytomegalovirus and herpesviruses

Contrasting effect of new HCMV pUL54 mutations on antiviral drug susceptibility: benefits and limits of 3D analysis

Interferon‐Induced Transmembrane Proteins Mediate Viral Evasion in Acute and Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection

Identification of a short sequence in the HCMV terminase pUL56 essential for interaction with pUL89 subunit

Identification of amino acids essential for viral replication in the HCMV helicase-primase complex

Priya Bhosale | Clinical Trials | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Priya Bhosale | Clinical Trials | Best Researcher Award

Professor of radiology at MD Anderson Cancer Center | United States

Dr. Priya Bhosale is a distinguished Professor of Diagnostic Radiology at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, specializing in abdominal and gynecologic imaging. With a career marked by academic excellence, clinical leadership, and pioneering research, she has significantly advanced imaging techniques for cancer diagnosis and treatment planning. She has held numerous leadership roles, contributed to international cancer care guidelines, and mentored emerging medical professionals. Renowned for her dedication to innovation and quality improvement, Dr. Bhosale actively participates in professional societies, editorial boards, and multidisciplinary initiatives, striving to enhance patient care, radiology practice standards, and global collaboration in oncologic imaging.

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Education 

Dr. Priya Bhosale earned her MD in Medicine from D.Y. Patil Medical College, Kolhapur, India, followed by advanced radiology training at the University of Pennsylvania and a fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center. She has pursued multiple leadership, innovation, and management programs at prestigious institutions including MD Anderson, the American College of Radiology, Association of University Radiologists, and Rice University. Her academic credentials also include an MBA in Health Care Management and Corporate Strategy. These diverse educational experiences have equipped her with expertise in clinical excellence, leadership development, strategic planning, quality control, corporate innovation, and emotional intelligence, all applied to medical practice.

Experience 

Dr. Priya Bhosale has served at MD Anderson Cancer Center progressing from Assistant Professor to Professor in Diagnostic Radiology. She holds concurrent appointments at UT Health Science Center in Houston. She has directed numerous programs including the Quantitative Imaging Core, chaired key quality committees, and led gynecologic imaging initiatives. Beyond academic roles, she has contributed to national and international cancer committees, served as course director, and collaborated in multidisciplinary research. Her leadership spans peer review committees, strategic planning groups, and educational programs, impacting both institutional and global radiology practices through innovation, quality improvement, and patient-centered imaging advancements.

Awards & Honors 

Dr. Priya Bhosale has been recognized through competitive leadership program nominations, including the MD Anderson Leadership Institute and the Radiology Leadership Institute. She has been entrusted with chairing influential national committees such as those in the Society for Advanced Body Imaging and the Texas Radiological Society. Her selection for prestigious executive education at Rice University underscores her leadership stature. She has served as an invited moderator, panelist, and presiding officer at leading radiology and oncology conferences, highlighting her expertise and influence. Through her work, she has advanced imaging research, quality standards, and multidisciplinary collaboration, earning respect across academic, clinical, and research communities.

Research Focus

Dr. Priya Bhosale research centers on advanced abdominal and gynecologic cancer imaging, with an emphasis on MRI applications, quantitative imaging, and multi-modality diagnostic strategies. She develops and evaluates imaging biomarkers to improve cancer detection, staging, treatment planning, and response assessment. Her work integrates radiology with pathology and oncology to refine precision medicine approaches. She also investigates quality improvement in imaging protocols and reproducibility in multi-center trials. As an active member of national cancer steering committees and working groups, she contributes to shaping imaging guidelines, fostering innovation, and translating research into practice to enhance outcomes for patients with complex oncologic diseases.

Publication Top Notes

Frequent detection of pancreatic lesions in asymptomatic high-risk individuals

Response of borderline resectable pancreatic cancer to neoadjuvant therapy is not reflected by radiographic indicators

Preoperative gemcitabine and cisplatin followed by gemcitabine-based chemoradiation for resectable adenocarcinoma of the pancreatic head

Ablative radiotherapy doses lead to a substantial prolongation of survival in patients with inoperable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma: a retrospective dose response analysis

Ovarian cancer, the revised FIGO staging system, and the role of imaging

Predictors and patterns of recurrence after definitive chemoradiation for anal cancer

The inguinal canal: anatomy and imaging features of common and uncommon masses

Transport properties of pancreatic cancer describe gemcitabine delivery and response

Imaging of pancreatic adenocarcinoma: update on staging/resectability

Preoperative therapy and pancreatoduodenectomy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: a 25-year single-institution experience

Cervical cancer: 2018 revised international federation of gynecology and obstetrics staging system and the role of imaging

Imaging and staging of endometrial cancer

Chemotherapy induced liver abnormalities: an imaging perspective

Imaging features of carcinoid tumors of the gastrointestinal tract

Aiyin Chen | Clinical Trials | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Aiyin Chen | Clinical Trials | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Oregon Health & Science University | United States

Dr. Aiyin Chen is an accomplished ophthalmologist and glaucoma specialist, recognized for her expertise in clinical care, research, and academic leadership. She serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at Oregon Health & Science University’s Casey Eye Institute. Dr. Chen’s career bridges advanced patient care with groundbreaking research in glaucoma detection, machine learning risk prediction, and optical coherence tomography applications. She has led and collaborated on multiple NIH-funded projects, contributed extensively to peer-reviewed literature, and worked to improve vision health in underserved populations. Dedicated to advancing ophthalmic science, Dr. Chen’s work continues to shape the future of glaucoma care.

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Education 

Dr. Aiyin Chen earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Biological Sciences with a Neurobiology and Behavior concentration from Cornell University, graduating magna cum laude with distinction. She obtained her Doctor of Medicine with thesis distinction from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Medicine. Following medical school, she completed a transitional internship at Atlantic Health Morristown Memorial Hospital and Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Dr. Chen then pursued ophthalmology residency training and a glaucoma fellowship at UCSF. She is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and holds active medical licenses in Oregon, Washington, and California, with prior licensure in Nevada.

Experience 

Dr. Aiyin Chen professional journey includes service as a glaucoma specialist at Wellish Vision Institute, and surgical roles at Sunrise Hospital and Box Canyon Surgery Center in Las Vegas. She transitioned to academia at the Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, where she served as Assistant Professor before advancing to Associate Professor. Her clinical expertise encompasses complex glaucoma management and surgery, while her administrative and teaching roles support training the next generation of ophthalmologists. Dr. Chen has been deeply involved in multi-institutional research collaborations, NIH-funded studies, and projects integrating telemedicine and big data analytics to improve glaucoma detection, diagnosis, and patient outcomes.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Aiyin Chen has earned multiple distinctions throughout her academic and professional career, including thesis distinction during her MD program and recognition for her NIH-funded research contributions in ophthalmology. She has been selected as a K12 Clinical Scientist Institutional Career Development Awardee, underscoring her leadership in translational research. Her grant portfolio includes principal investigator and co-investigator roles on high-impact glaucoma studies funded by the National Eye Institute and National Library of Medicine. Dr. Chen’s scholarship, mentorship, and commitment to improving vision health in underserved communities have established her as a leader in ophthalmic research, earning her recognition among peers in the global vision science community.

Research Focus 

Dr. Aiyin Chen research focuses on advancing glaucoma detection, risk prediction, and disease management through technology-driven approaches. Her work includes developing machine learning models to predict glaucoma onset and progression, exploring the use of optical coherence tomography angiography for early diagnosis, and designing telemedicine-based screening strategies for underserved areas. She has contributed to studies evaluating clinic efficiency through data modeling and examined ocular blood flow in glaucoma patients before and after surgical interventions. With a strong record of NIH-funded research, Dr. Chen’s efforts aim to integrate imaging, big data analytics, and community outreach to improve glaucoma care worldwide.

Publication Top Notes

Does in vitro susceptibility predict clinical outcome in bacterial keratitis?

Measuring glaucomatous focal perfusion loss in the peripapillary retina using OCT angiography

Semaglutide and nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy

Scleral intraocular pressure measurement in cadaver eyes pre-and postkeratoprosthesis implantation

Patterns of neural activation associated with exposure to odors from a familiar winner in male golden hamsters

Asian herbal-tobacco cigarettes:“not medicine but less harmful”?

Effect of algorithms and covariates in glaucoma diagnosis with optical coherence tomography angiography

Focal loss analysis of nerve fiber layer reflectance for glaucoma diagnosis

Prediction of multiclass surgical outcomes in glaucoma using multimodal deep learning based on free-text operative notes and structured EHR data

Extraction of active medications and adherence using natural language processing for glaucoma patients

Integrating deep learning with electronic health records for early glaucoma detection: a multi-dimensional machine learning approach

Emerging frontline leaders’ voices in response to COVID-19 crisis

Surgical management of an optic nerve glioma with perineural arachnoidal gliomatosis growth pattern

Optical coherence tomographic angiography detects retinal vascular changes associated with pituitary adenoma

Laura Lambrecht | Oncology Pharmaceuticals | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Laura Lambrecht | Oncology Pharmaceuticals | Best Researcher Award

Licenced Physician with a doctoral degree (MD) at Department of Medicine V, University Hospital, LMU Munich | Germany

Dr. med. Laura Lambrecht, born in Munich, is a dedicated physician specializing in pneumology and cardiology with a strong research background in experimental adult cardiology. She completed her medical studies at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München and the Technical University of Munich, earning her approbation as a physician. Her doctoral research at the Deutsches Herzzentrum München focused on the functional impact of acetylsalicylic acid on platelet function in carriers of genetic variants in the GUCY1A1 gene, associated with coronary heart disease risk. She actively contributes to clinical work, academic research, and professional leadership roles, while also engaging in cultural and educational initiatives.

Publication Profile 

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Education 

Dr. Laura Lambrecht earned her Allgemeine Hochschulreife from Max-Bon-Gymnasium Germering with top marks. She began her pre-clinical medical studies at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, achieving “gut” in her first medical examination. She continued her clinical medical studies at the Technical University of Munich, also earning “gut,” and successfully passed her second and third medical examinations. She obtained her approbation as a physician in December. Her doctoral work at the Deutsches Herzzentrum München investigated the effects of acetylsalicylic acid on platelet function in genetically predisposed individuals. She holds certifications in Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and is a member of the Young-DZHK research network.

Experience 

Dr. Lambrecht is currently a physician in training for pneumology at the LMU Klinikum, with a prior rotation in cardiology at the same institution. She has also served as a cardiology trainee at the Medizinisches Versorgungszentrum Dachau, a teaching practice of LMU Munich. Her research experience includes experimental adult cardiology at the Deutsches Herzzentrum München in the group of Prof. Dr. H. Schunkert. She has held leadership roles such as assistant representative at the LMU Klinikum. Alongside her clinical career, she has been actively involved in student representation, faculty governance, and medical community engagement through various institutional committees and organizations.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Lambrecht’s academic achievements include graduating from Max-Bon-Gymnasium Germering with “sehr gut” and consistently strong performance in her medical studies at LMU and TU Munich. She earned her approbation as a physician and secured a place in the prestigious Young-DZHK network, reflecting her recognized potential in cardiovascular research. She received funding for her doctoral project examining the genetic and pharmacological interplay in coronary heart disease. Her leadership as assistant representative and elected student council member also reflects peer recognition. Her commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and community service positions her as a promising contributor to both clinical and research fields.

Research Focus 

Dr. Lambrecht’s primary research interest lies in cardiovascular pharmacogenetics, particularly the influence of genetic variants on drug response. Her doctoral project focused on the functional effects of acetylsalicylic acid on platelet function in carriers of genetic variants in the coronary heart disease risk gene GUCY1A1. She is interested in translating molecular findings into personalized therapeutic strategies for cardiovascular patients. Her work integrates clinical cardiology with laboratory-based functional assays to better understand genotype-specific treatment responses. Additionally, she engages in interdisciplinary collaboration between cardiology and pneumology, aiming to address comorbid conditions and improve patient care through evidence-based, precision medicine approaches.

Publication Top Notes

Topotecan in a Real-World Small-Cell Lung Cancer Cohort: Prognostic Biomarkers Improve Selection of Patients for Second-Line Treatment.

Loss of soluble guanylyl cyclase in platelets contributes to atherosclerotic plaque formation and vascular inflammation.

Moutih Rafei | Vaccine Development | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Moutih Rafei | Vaccine Development | Best Researcher Award

Full Professor at Université de Montréal | Canada

Dr. Moutih Rafei is a Full Professor at Université de Montréal specializing in pharmacology, immunology, and molecular biology. He is internationally recognized for his pioneering work in T-cell development, cell therapy, cytokine biology, and vaccine engineering. As founder and CEO of Axiom Services Inc., and former CSO of multiple biotech companies, he bridges academic innovation with industry translation. His career includes over 60 peer-reviewed publications, six patents, and leadership in high-impact immuno-oncology projects. Dr. Rafei is a sought-after keynote speaker, scientific advisor, and grant reviewer, contributing significantly to advancing novel therapeutic platforms for cancer, infectious diseases, and immune system modulation.

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Education

Dr. Rafei earned his B.Sc. Honours in Immunology from McGill University, completing a thesis on Giardia lamblia DNA vaccine design. He pursued a PhD in Experimental Medicine at McGill under Dr. Jacques Galipeau, focusing on fusokine-based immunosuppression strategies. He then completed a postdoctoral fellowship at Université de Montréal with Dr. Claude Perreault, studying innate and classical CD8 T-cell development. Complementing his scientific expertise, Dr. Rafei completed the Mini-Entrepreneurship Program at HEC-Poly-UdeM, gaining business strategy training. His multidisciplinary education combines deep immunological research skills with innovation management, positioning him at the intersection of cutting-edge biomedical science, translational medicine, and biotech entrepreneurship.

Experience 

Dr. Rafei’s professional experience spans academia and industry. In academia, he is a Full Professor at Université de Montréal, leading translational hemato-oncology research and mentoring over 60 trainees. In industry, he founded Axiom Services Inc. and co-founded IntelliStem Technologies Inc., guiding R&D in T-cell and stem cell therapies. He served as Chief Scientific Officer for Defense Therapeutics Inc. and IntelliStem, and as Head of Discovery at Medicenna Therapeutics, advancing IL-2 superkine programs to clinical trials. He has presented at major international conferences, secured over $6.5 million in research funding, and consulted for biotech and pharma companies, bridging scientific discovery and product development.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Rafei has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing his research excellence and leadership. These include the Science Features Excellence Award, recognition among the Most Influential Healthcare Leaders to Watch, and Canada’s Most Visionary Men Leaders in Healthcare. He earned the AAI-Life Technologies Trainee Achievement Award, American Society of Hematology Travel Awards, and the Cedarlane Greenberg Award. His work has been ranked among the Quebec and earned multiple competitive fellowships, including CIHR, Terry Fox Foundation, and FRSQ. He has also been nominated for national innovation awards, consistently  in peer-reviewed competitions and gaining international recognition for scientific impact.

Research Focus 

Dr. Rafei’s research integrates immunology, cell therapy, and biotechnology to develop next-generation therapeutic strategies. His expertise includes T-cell development, cytokine and chemokine biology, fusokine engineering, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, and vaccine design. He applies high-throughput screening for small-molecule discovery and engineers DNA-, peptide-, protein-, and cell-based vaccines. His current work emphasizes mesenchymal stromal cell platforms (ARM-X) for cancer immunotherapy, immune-oncology drug development, and novel approaches for infectious disease prevention. By combining basic immunology with translational application, Dr. Rafei aims to generate safe, effective, and customizable therapies to treat cancer and modulate immune responses in diverse clinical contexts.

Publication Top Notes

Mesenchymal stromal cells ameliorate experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by inhibiting CD4 Th17 T cells in a CC chemokine ligand 2-dependent manner

Mesenchymal stromal cell–derived CCL2 suppresses plasma cell immunoglobulin production via STAT3 inactivation and PAX5 induction

Cell therapy: types, regulation, and clinical benefits

Allogeneic mesenchymal stem cells for treatment of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis

Nociceptor neurons affect cancer immunosurveillance

A granulocyte-macrophage colony–stimulating factor and interleukin-15 fusokine induces a regulatory B cell population with immune suppressive properties

Inflammatory monocytes promote progression of Duchenne muscular dystrophy and can be therapeutically targeted via CCR 2

Characterization of Gaucher disease bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells reveals an altered inflammatory secretome

Mesenchymal stem cells beyond regenerative medicine

An engineered GM-CSF-CCL2 fusokine is a potent inhibitor of CCR2-driven inflammation as demonstrated in a murine model of inflammatory arthritis

Farha Naz | Drug Repurposing | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Farha Naz | Drug Repurposing | Women Researcher Award

Research Scientist at University of Virginia | United States

Dr. Farha Naz is a dynamic and accomplished structural biologist and immunologist, currently serving as a Research Scientist at the University of Virginia, USA. With a Ph.D. in Structural Biology from Jamia Millia Islamia, she has cultivated a distinguished research career focused on infectious diseases, host immunity, and vaccine development. Her postdoctoral work spans prestigious institutions including ICMR and UVA, and she has contributed to impactful translational research on Clostridioides difficile infection, tuberculosis, and host-pathogen interactions. Dr. Naz is also a frequent corresponding author and editorial contributor, demonstrating her leadership and scientific vision in global biomedical research.

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Education 

Dr. Farha Naz earned her Ph.D. in Structural Biology from Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, graduating top of her batch in pre-PhD coursework. She completed her M.Sc. in Biotechnology in from Jamia Hamdard. Her B.Sc. from the University of Allahabad was marked by academic distinction, graduating. She completed her 12th and 10th at RDBIC, Allahabad. Her educational journey reflects academic excellence.

Experience 

Dr. Naz began her academic career as a Guest Faculty at the Centre of Bioinformatics, University of Allahabad. She later served as a Temporary Assistant Professor at SHUATS, Allahabad. she held a prestigious ICMR-Centenary Postdoctoral Fellowship at the National Institute of Pathology-ICMR in New Delhi. She then joined the University of Virginia as a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health. Since February  she has been a Research Scientist in the same department, contributing to cutting-edge immunological and translational research in infectious diseases.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Farha Naz has received multiple academic honors throughout her career. She was awarded the Junior Scientist Award by the Council of Science & Technology, U.P. She graduated as the Faculty Topper of her B.Sc. batch. She has qualified prestigious national fellowships and exams including the CSIR-UGC Fellowship in December, GATE in February, and the CSIR-UGC NET in June. These achievements highlight her consistent academic performance and her early recognition as a promising scientific talent. Her excellence continues through her high-impact research outputs and leadership roles in translational science.

Research Focus 

Dr. Naz’s research centers on host-pathogen interactions, mucosal immunology, and vaccine development, particularly against Clostridioides difficile and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. She investigates the mechanisms by which pathogens evade host immunity and how immune modulation can be leveraged for therapeutic interventions. Her work explores innate immune responses, cytokine signaling, GPCR modulation, and the role of sphingolipids in infection. She has contributed significantly to understanding vaccine adjuvants, humoral responses in recurrent infections, and therapeutic strategies involving immune and nervous system crosstalk. Her translational research aims to advance precision immunotherapy and infectious disease control globally.

Publication Top Notes

Investigation of molecular mechanism of recognition between citral and MARK4: A newer therapeutic approach to attenuate cancer cell progression

Microtubule affinity-regulating kinase 4: structure, function, and regulation

Elucidation of dietary polyphenolics as potential inhibitor of microtubule affinity regulating kinase 4: in silico and in vitro studies

Designing new kinase inhibitor derivatives as therapeutics against common complex diseases: structural basis of microtubule affinity-regulating kinase 4 (MARK4) inhibition

PKR-inhibitor binds efficiently with human microtubule affinity-regulating kinase 4

Battling COVID-19 pandemic: sphingosine-1-phosphate analogs as an adjunctive therapy?

Cloning, Expression, Purification and Refolding of Microtubule Affinity-Regulating Kinase 4 Expressed in Escherichia coli

Ubiquitin-associated domain of MARK4 provides stability at physiological pH

Atypical PKC phosphorylates microtubule affinity-regulating kinase 4 in vitro

Sphingosine-1-phosphate signaling in Leishmania donovani infection in macrophages

Evaluation of human microtubule affinity-regulating kinase 4 inhibitors: fluorescence binding studies, enzyme, and cell assays

Human microtubule affinity-regulating kinase 4 is stable at extremes of pH

Muhammad Musa Khan | Drug Safety and Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Muhammad Musa Khan | Drug Safety and Risk Management | Best Researcher Award

Associate Researcher at Hainan Institute of Zhejiang University | China

Dr. Muhammad Musa Khan is a Pakistani entomologist and research scientist with an extensive background in agricultural entomology, insect toxicology, and pest management. Currently serving as an Associate Researcher at the Hainan Institute of Zhejiang University, China, he focuses on pesticide toxicity, ecological risk assessment, and resistance management in agroecosystems. His research spans ecological, molecular, and toxicological approaches to pest control. Dr. Khan has published prolifically in high-impact journals and is recognized for advancing sustainable pest management strategies. His collaborative, multidisciplinary work integrates field ecology with molecular diagnostics, benefiting both science and agriculture on a global scale.

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Education 

Dr. Khan earned his Ph.D. in Agricultural Entomology and Pest Control from Huazhong Agricultural University, China, where he worked on predator safety in rice ecosystems. He completed his M.Sc. (Hons) in Entomology from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan, researching resistance mechanisms in cotton against sap-sucking pests. His undergraduate degree (B.Sc. Hons) in Agriculture with a specialization in Entomology was obtained from PMAS Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi. Additionally, he interned at the Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology, gaining hands-on expertise in biological control agent rearing and field application methods.

Experience 

Dr. Khan currently serves as Associate Researcher at the Hainan Institute of Zhejiang University, China, investigating pesticide toxicity and resistance in brown planthopper and rice ecosystems. His previous role as a Postdoctoral Researcher at South China Agricultural University involved studying the effects of UV light on whiteflies and moths. During his Ph.D., he explored ecotoxicological risks of insecticides on beneficial insects and tested essential oil-based pest repellent strategies. His scientific skillset encompasses molecular biology techniques, gene expression analysis, bioinformatics, and biostatistics. His interdisciplinary approach allows integration of molecular diagnostics with field-level pest management.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Khan has received significant recognition for his impactful research, including editorial contributions to international journals such as Frontiers in Plant Science. His publications have consistently appeared in top-tier Q1 journals like Journal of Hazardous Materials and Chemosphere. As a corresponding author and equal first author, his contributions are well-acknowledged in international collaborations. His work has received citations and global visibility for its originality in ecological toxicology and entomological innovation. Moreover, his involvement in multiple Chinese institutions and his role in international research networks reflect his growing influence and leadership in the agricultural research community.

Research Focus 

Dr. Khan’s research bridges entomology, toxicology, and molecular biology with a primary focus on insecticide resistance, non-target toxicity, and ecological safety in agroecosystems. He specializes in assessing chemical and environmental stressors on pests and their natural enemies, especially in rice and vegetable production systems. His studies utilize DNA/RNA techniques, gene expression profiling, and biochemical assays to decipher the molecular impact of pesticides and ultraviolet exposure on pest physiology and behavior. He is particularly interested in predator-prey dynamics, pollinator safety, integrated pest management, and sustainable solutions to enhance agricultural productivity while minimizing ecological harm.

Publication Top Notes

Role of insect gut microbiota in pesticide degradation: a review

Metabolic-based insecticide resistance mechanism and ecofriendly approaches for controlling of beet armyworm Spodoptera exigua: a review

Impact of invasive ant species on native fauna across similar habitats under global environmental changes

Lethal and sublethal effects of emamectin benzoate on the rove beetle, Paederus fuscipes, a non-target predator of rice brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens

Identification of attractants from plant essential oils for Cyrtorhinus lividipennis, an important predator of rice planthoppers

Role of digestive protease enzymes and related genes in host plant adaptation of a polyphagous pest, Spodoptera frugiperda

Temperature-Dependent Functional Response of Harmonia axyridis (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) on the Eggs of Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in …

Lethal and Sublethal Effects of Chlorpyrifos on Biological Traits and Feeding of the Aphidophagous Predator Harmonia axyridis

Sublethal effects of chlorantraniliprole on Paederus fuscipes (Staphylinidae: Coleoptera), a general predator in paddle field

Using a Two-Sex Life Table Tool to Calculate the Fitness of Orius strigicollis as a Predator of Pectinophora gossypiella

Insecticide resistance and detoxification enzymes activity in Nilaparvata lugens Stål against neonicotinoids

Emamectin benzoate induced enzymatic and transcriptional alternation in detoxification mechanism of predatory beetle Paederus fuscipes (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) at the …

Bright E IGERE | Antibiotic Resistance | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Bright E IGERE | Antibiotic Resistance | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer at Delta State University | Nigeria

Assist. Prof. Dr. Bright E. Igere is a distinguished microbiologist and academic with a strong background in microbial genetics, molecular epidemiology, and biotechnology. He currently serves in a pivotal role within his university’s Research and Publication Board and Result Quality Assurance Committee. A dedicated scholar, Dr. Igere has contributed extensively to the scientific community through his multidisciplinary research and peer-reviewed publications. His work spans national and international journals, focusing on antimicrobial resistance, public health, and environmental microbiology. A recipient of several prestigious awards and fellowships, he is committed to advancing scientific knowledge and mentoring the next generation of microbiologists.

Publication Profile 

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Education 

Dr. Bright E. Igere earned his Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Fort Hare, South Africa, specializing in microbial genetics and molecular epidemiology. He completed his M.Sc. in Microbiology at Delta State University Abraka, Nigeria, where his research centered on microbial genetics. he obtained a B.Tech. in Biotechnology from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, a CGPA. He completed his secondary education at Edjeba Secondary School and primary education at Oharisi Modern Primary School, earning his First School Leaving Certificate.

Experience 

Dr. Igere has held multiple academic and administrative roles, currently serving as Secretary of the Research/Publication Board and as a member of the Result Quality Assurance Committee. With extensive experience in microbial research and diagnostics, he has supervised postgraduate theses and mentored young scientists. His work extends beyond teaching into collaborative research, editorial reviews, and institutional governance. Dr. Igere has contributed significantly to microbiological research involving both clinical and environmental isolates, and his collaborations span local and international institutions. His experience in academia is enriched by policy development, grant acquisition, and community health-related research in microbiology and public health.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Bright E. Igere has received numerous awards and fellowships in recognition of his scientific contributions. He received the AGNES Grant by the African-German Network of Excellence in Science and the Elsevier Reviewers Award. he was honored with a Supervisor-Linked Bursary from the South African Medical Research Council. That same year, he was named Best Emerging Young Researcher in Biological Sciences. He was also awarded an inter-cadre transfer by the Natural Science board and received funding and recognition from Western Delta University for outstanding contributions to molecular training and scientific growth.

Research Focus 

Dr. Igere’s research revolves around microbial genetics, molecular epidemiology, antimicrobial resistance, and biofilm-associated infections. He explores public and environmental health microbiology, focusing on emerging pathogens, toxin-producing strains, and multidrug-resistant organisms in clinical and aquatic ecosystems. His work emphasizes molecular characterization, virulence dynamics, and pathogen surveillance. He has conducted studies on Vibrio cholerae, Bacillus cereus, Klebsiella, and MRSA strains, advancing biofilm therapeutics and eco-health implications. His interdisciplinary research integrates genomics, environmental microbiology, and biotechnology to develop novel therapeutic strategies and inform disease control frameworks. Dr. Igere’s work contributes significantly to global health, food safety, and environmental monitoring.

Publication Top Notes

Prevalence of Multiple Antibiotics Resistant (MAR) Pseudomonas Species in the Final Effluents of Three Municipal Wastewater Treatment Facilities in South Africa

Virulence and Antibiotic Resistance Characteristics of Vibrio Isolates From Rustic Environmental Freshwaters

Antimicrobial and phytochemical evaluation of the leaf, stem bark and root extracts of Cyathula prostrata (L) Blume against some human pathogens

Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing (AST) Reports: A Basis for Environmental/Epidemiological Surveillance and Infection Control Amongst Environmental Vibrio cholerae

Human norovirus contamination in wate8r sources: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Wastewater treatment plants and release: The vase of Odin for emerging bacterial contaminants, resistance and determinant of environmental wellness

Non-serogroup O1/O139 agglutinable Vibrio cholerae: a phylogenetically and genealogically neglected yet emerging potential pathogen of clinical relevance

Meta-synthesis and science mapping analysis of HIV/HPV co-infection: a global perspective with emphasis on Africa

Occurrence, Antibiotic Susceptibility and Genes Encoding Antibacterial Resistance of Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli From Milk and Meat Sold in Markets of …

Global mapping of cholera vibrio and outbreaks in the pre-millennium development goals (MDG)/sustainable development goals (SDG) and MDGs/SDGs era of 1990–2019