Yajnavalka Banerjee | Herbal Medicine and Nutraceuticals | Best Researcher Award

Yajnavalka Banerjee | Herbal Medicine and Nutraceuticals | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor of Biochemistry at MBRU, United Arab Emirates

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yajnavalka Banerjee is an internationally acclaimed biochemist and educator, currently serving at the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU), Dubai. His remarkable career spans over two decades, with key academic roles in Oman, Germany, the USA, and Singapore. His research expertise integrates clinical biochemistry, molecular medicine, and medical education, with an emphasis on metabolic disorders, venomics, and COVID-19 implications. A recipient of both the prestigious NIH and Alexander von Humboldt Fellowships, he has contributed significantly to biomedical science through high-impact research, innovative teaching, and academic leadership. He also holds fellowships from the Royal Society of Biology (FRSB) and Higher Education Academy (FHEA), highlighting his dual excellence in research and education. Dr. Banerjee’s dedication to translational science and curriculum development has positioned him as a visionary in global health education and molecular biochemistry.

Publication Profile

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Education

Dr. Banerjee began his academic journey with a doctoral scholarship at the National University of Singapore (2002–2007), supported by the SMA fellowship. His global exposure continued through a research stint as a visiting scientist in Japan, followed by postdoctoral fellowships at the Scripps Research Institute in the USA and the Max Planck Institute in Germany. These experiences honed his skills in advanced biophysical techniques, structural biology, and molecular interaction studies. He earned recognition for his research on Activated Protein C and intracellular trafficking complexes. His educational trajectory is defined by a strong foundation in molecular biochemistry, extensive postdoctoral training in world-class institutes, and a continuous focus on merging molecular science with medical relevance. His interdisciplinary learning and cross-continental training reflect a commitment to academic rigor and innovation in biomedical sciences.

Experience

Dr. Banerjee is currently an Associate Professor of Biochemistry at MBRU, Dubai (2016–present), where he also leads curriculum design and academic affairs for Phase-I of the MBBS program. Previously, he served as an Associate and Assistant Professor at Sultan Qaboos University, Oman (2011–2016). His earlier roles include prestigious research fellowships at the Max Planck Institute (Germany) and The Scripps Research Institute (USA). His teaching portfolio covers both undergraduate and postgraduate programs, emphasizing medical biochemistry, clinical chemistry, and molecular biology. He has successfully led modules in advanced instrumentation, clinical techniques, and student-centered pedagogies. His leadership extends to academic planning, course design, assessment strategy, and the integration of competency-based education models. With over 20 years of diverse academic and research leadership across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the U.S., Dr. Banerjee continues to influence both biomedical science and education innovation.

Awards and Honors

  • 🧪 Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship (2009): Recognized for research in molecular interactions at the Max Planck Institute, Germany, using advanced biophysical techniques.

  • 🧬 NIH Fellowship (2007): Awarded for pioneering work on Activated Protein C at The Scripps Research Institute under Dr. John Griffin.

  • 🎓 Fellow, Royal Society of Biology (FRSB): For outstanding scientific contributions and leadership in molecular biology and STEM education.

  • 🧑‍🏫 Fellow, Higher Education Academy (FHEA): Honoring his innovative teaching strategies, curriculum leadership, and pedagogical excellence.

  • 💡 Principal Investigator on multiple competitive international research grants from Pfizer, Amgen, Al Jalila Foundation, and BlueNotes Global.

  • 🧵 Recognized for impactful contributions to global health education, disease mechanisms, and translational biochemistry.

Research Focus

Dr. Banerjee’s research focus encompasses molecular disease mechanisms, clinical biochemistry, and translational medicine. His work addresses hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, atherosclerosis, and metabolic disorders, especially in the context of COVID-19. A core area involves the anti-inflammatory properties of anticoagulants and the identification of therapeutic peptides through venomics. He also pioneers genetic and metabolomics studies in Emirati populations to understand familial hypercholesterolemia. Additionally, Dr. Banerjee is a leader in medical education research, developing competency-based learning models and AI-enhanced teaching methods during the COVID-19 pandemic. His interest in GLP-1 receptor agonists for COVID-19 therapy and epigenetic effects of treatment underscore his commitment to precision medicine. By integrating laboratory research with medical pedagogy, his work bridges the gap between biomedical innovation and educational excellence.

Publication Top Notes

Diabetes and the COVID-19 pandemic: how insights from recent experience might guide future management

Activated protein C ligation of ApoER2 (LRP8) causes Dab1-dependent signaling in U937 cells

Formation of transient amorphous calcium carbonate precursor in quail eggshell mineralization: an in vitro study

Hemextin AB complex, a unique anticoagulant protein complex from Hemachatus haemachatus (African Ringhals cobra) venom that inhibits clot initiation and factor VIIa activity

Criteria for diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia: a comprehensive analysis of the different guidelines, appraising their suitability in the Omani Arab population

Confronting the challenges of anatomy education in a competency-based medical curriculum during normal and unprecedented times (COVID-19 pandemic): pedagogical framework …

The relationship between COVID-19 and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis: a large spectrum from glucocorticoid insufficiency to excess—the CAPISCO International Expert Panel

 

Xiaona Ye | Herbal Medicine and Nutraceuticals | Best Researcher Award

Xiaona Ye | Herbal Medicine and Nutraceuticals | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Xiaona Ye, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, China

Prof. Xiaona Ye 📚👩‍🎓 is a distinguished researcher with a strong academic background and significant professional experience 🎓. With numerous research projects 📊, publications 📄, and patents 📝, she has made notable contributions to her field. Prof. Ye’s citation index 📈 and industry-sponsored projects 💼 demonstrate her impact and relevance. As a dedicated researcher, she focuses on [specific area] 🔬, driving innovation and advancement. With a commitment to excellence, Prof. Ye is a leading figure in her field 🌟. Her work showcases her expertise and potential for continued groundbreaking research 🔍.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

Prof. Xiaona Ye 🎓 is a distinguished academic with a strong foundation in food science and nutrition. She earned her Ph.D. from Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, one of China’s top institutions in the field. With extensive experience in research and teaching, she has contributed significantly to food safety and functional food development. Prof. Ye has published numerous high-impact scientific papers and has been recognized for her excellence in research and innovation 🏆. Her work has advanced understanding in the health benefits of bioactive compounds, making her a respected figure in the scientific community 🌿. She continues to inspire future researchers globally.

Professional Memberships

Prof. Xiaona Ye 🤝 is an active member of several prestigious professional organizations that reflect her dedication to food science and nutrition. She is a valued member of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) 🌽 and the International Union of Food Science and Technology (IUFoST) 🌍. Additionally, she holds membership in the Chinese Institute of Food Science and Technology (CIFST) 🥢, where she contributes to academic development and scientific exchange. Her engagement with these societies allows her to stay at the forefront of research, collaborate internationally, and support the advancement of food safety, functional foods, and public health nutrition.

Research Focus

Prof. Xiaona Ye focuses on neuropharmacology, particularly the natural compound-based treatment of sleep disorders. Her research explores how plant-derived substances like cinnamic acid can improve sleep quality by interacting with neurotransmitter systems. In her study using parachlorophenylalanine-induced insomnia in rats, she demonstrated how cinnamic acid may restore sleep by modulating serotonin pathways. Her work bridges phytotherapy, neuroscience, and sleep medicine, contributing to safer, natural treatments for insomnia. 🌙🧪 This aligns her with categories like pharmacognosy, neuroscience, sleep research, and natural product pharmacology—areas that increasingly shape holistic approaches to mental and sleep health.

Publication Top Notes

Promotion of sleep by cinnamic acid in parachlorophenylalanine-induced insomnia in rats

Khalid M Alkharfy| Herbal Medicine and Nutraceuticals | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Khalid M Alkharfy| Herbal Medicine and Nutraceuticals | Best Researcher Award

King Saud University, Saudi Arabia

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Prof. Dr. Khalid M. Alkharfy began his academic journey with an unwavering commitment to pharmaceutical sciences. Graduating with class honors from King Saud University in 1992 with a Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Sciences (B.Sc. Pharm), he established a solid foundation for his future contributions to the field. His academic excellence continued as he pursued a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) at the University of Tennessee, USA, graduating in 1997 with class honors. During this period, Dr. Alkharfy honed his skills as a pharmacy intern at leading healthcare institutions in Memphis, Tennessee, including Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Regional Medical Center, and Baptist Memorial Hospital. This formative training emphasized his proficiency in adjusting and monitoring drug therapies, providing patient counseling, and collaborating with multidisciplinary medical teams.

Furthering his expertise, Dr. Alkharfy earned a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Pharmaceutical Sciences from the University of Pittsburgh in 2002. This significant achievement, recognized with distinction in clinical research, underscored his ability to conduct groundbreaking studies and set the stage for his impactful career in clinical and translational research.

Professional Endeavors and Leadership 🏢

Dr. Alkharfy’s professional journey is characterized by a series of prominent leadership roles, showcasing his scientific acumen and administrative capabilities. Starting as a Clinical Instructor at King Khalid University Hospital (1992-1994), he contributed to training pharmacy students while working with the nephrology medical team. His academic and research career blossomed further during his tenure as a Research Associate (1997-2002) at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, where he played a pivotal role in designing and conducting clinical trials, analyzing data, and disseminating findings through conferences and publications.

Returning to Saudi Arabia, Dr. Alkharfy joined King Saud University in 2002 as a Professor of Clinical and Translational Research in the Department of Clinical Pharmacy. In this capacity, he has led numerous initiatives, including the Translational and Drug Discovery Unit and the Biomarkers Research Program, focusing on metabolic disorders and diabetes. His leadership extended beyond academia as he served as Dean of the College of Pharmacy at Prince Sattam University (2013-2016) and as the Founding Dean of Almaarefa University’s College of Pharmacy (2011-2013).Additionally, Dr. Alkharfy took on national responsibilities as a Consultant for the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), advising on regulatory frameworks and ensuring pharmaceutical standards. His global contributions include Visiting Scholar positions at renowned institutions such as Mayo Clinic (USA), the University of Hong Kong, and Charles University (Czech Republic).

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Alkharfy has made profound contributions to clinical and translational research, with a focus on metabolic disorders, diabetes, and drug discovery. As a leader in the Biomarkers Research Program, he has designed innovative studies to identify novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers for chronic diseases. His expertise has also extended to creating an ecosystem for R&D projects as Director of Riyadh Techno Valley, where he fostered collaborations between academia, industry, and government to advance Saudi Arabia’s science and technology infrastructure.Dr. Alkharfy has authored and co-authored over 260 scientific papers, abstracts, and publications, many of which have appeared in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals. His work demonstrates a commitment to advancing global health through robust research methodologies and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Over the years, Dr. Alkharfy’s accomplishments have garnered international recognition. As a Fulbright Scholar at Mayo Clinic (2019), he contributed to advanced clinical research in diabetes and pharmacotherapy. His expertise earned him invitations to prestigious visiting scholar positions at leading universities worldwide, including the University of Campinas (Brazil), International Islamic University Malaysia, and the University of Auckland (New Zealand).Dr. Alkharfy’s innovation is further evidenced by his four registered patents across Saudi Arabia, the USA, and Europe, reflecting his commitment to translating research into tangible solutions. His leadership as Dean and consultant roles have been instrumental in shaping pharmacy education and regulatory practices in Saudi Arabia.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Alkharfy’s work has had a lasting impact on both academia and public health policy. As a leader in clinical and translational research, his studies on diabetes and metabolic disorders have influenced treatment paradigms, while his patents have contributed to drug discovery and development. His mentorship of young scientists and pharmacy students has inspired a new generation of researchers and clinicians in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

Through his roles in national regulatory bodies and academic institutions, Dr. Alkharfy has played a critical part in strengthening the research infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, promoting innovation, and aligning the country’s scientific endeavors with international standards.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

As Dr. Khalid M. Alkharfy continues his illustrious career, his legacy is firmly rooted in his dedication to research excellence, leadership, and education. His work has set a benchmark for integrating clinical and translational research with public health initiatives, fostering international collaborations, and nurturing talent in pharmaceutical sciences.

📖Notable Publications

Effect of physical activity and sun exposure on vitamin D status of Saudi children and adolescents
  • Authors : Abdulaziz Al-Othman, Sara Al-Musharaf, Nasser M Al-Daghri, Soundararajan Krishnaswamy, Deqa S Yusuf, Khalid M Alkharfy, Yousef Al-Saleh, Omar S Al-Attas, Majed S Alokail, Osama Moharram, Shaun Sabico, George P Chrousos
  • Journal: BMC pediatrics
  • Year: 2012
Association of VDR-gene variants with factors related to the metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes and vitamin D deficiency
  • Authors : Nasser M Al-Daghri, Omar S Al-Attas, Khalid M Alkharfy, Nasiruddin Khan, Abdul Khader Mohammed, Benjamin Vinodson, Mohammed Ghouse Ahmed Ansari, Amal Alenad, Majed S Alokail
  • Journal: Gene
  • Year: 2014
Momordica charantia polysaccharides ameliorate oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in ethanol-induced gastritis in mucosa through NF-kB signaling pathway inhibition
  • Authors : Mohammad Raish, Ajaz Ahmad, Mushtaq Ahmad Ansari, Khalid M Alkharfy, Fahad I Aljenoobi, Basit L Jan, Abdullah M Al-Mohizea, Altaf Khan, Naushad Ali
  • Journal: Biological Macromolecules
  • Year: 2018
Irisin as a predictor of glucose metabolism in children: sexually dimorphic effects
  • Authors : Nasser M Al‐Daghri, Khalid M Alkharfy, Shakilur Rahman, Osama E Amer, Benjamin Vinodson, Shaun Sabico, Milan K Piya, Alison L Harte, Philip G McTernan, Majed S Alokail, George P Chrousos
  • Journal: European Journal of Clinical Investigation
  • Year: 2014
Application of Box–Behnken design for ultrasonic-assisted extraction of polysaccharides from Paeonia emodi
  • Authors : Ajaz Ahmad, Khalid M Alkharfy, Tanveer A Wani, Mohammad Raish Ansari; Muzaffar Iqbal; Ali N; Alkharfy KM et al.
  • Journal:biological macromolecules
  • Year: 2015