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
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🧪 Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship (2009): Recognized for research in molecular interactions at the Max Planck Institute, Germany, using advanced biophysical techniques.
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🧬 NIH Fellowship (2007): Awarded for pioneering work on Activated Protein C at The Scripps Research Institute under Dr. John Griffin.
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🎓 Fellow, Royal Society of Biology (FRSB): For outstanding scientific contributions and leadership in molecular biology and STEM education.
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🧑🏫 Fellow, Higher Education Academy (FHEA): Honoring his innovative teaching strategies, curriculum leadership, and pedagogical excellence.
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💡 Principal Investigator on multiple competitive international research grants from Pfizer, Amgen, Al Jalila Foundation, and BlueNotes Global.
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🧵 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