Zuzana Sekeyová | Formulation Science | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Zuzana Sekeyová | Formulation Science | Best Researcher Award

Slovak Academy of Sciences | Slovakia

Mrs. Zuzana Sekeyová is a highly accomplished virologist and microbiologist with extensive expertise in the study, diagnosis, and prevention of rickettsial and intracellular pathogens. She obtained her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Virology from Comenius University, Bratislava, and completed her Ph.D. at the Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, focusing on the biology of Rickettsiae and related organisms at the Institute of Virology, Slovak Academy of Sciences. She advanced her knowledge through postdoctoral training at the University of Maryland, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Baltimore, USA, and through multiple visiting research fellowships supported by the Deutsche Akademische Austauschdienst (DAAD) at Justus Liebig Universität, Giessen, Germany, and the WHO Collaborative Center for Rickettsial Reference and Research, CNRS UPRESA 6020, Marseille, France. She further enhanced her global expertise as a visiting research fellow with the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science at Obihiro University of Agriculture & Veterinary Medicine and the National Institute of Infectious Diseases in Tokyo, Japan.Mrs. Sekeyová began her career as a scientific assistant and young scientist at the Institute of Virology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, progressing to senior research scientist and deputy head of the Department of Rickettsiology, where she currently oversees the Laboratory for Diagnosis and Prevention of Rickettsial and Chlamydial Infections. She serves as an expert verifier for the Slovak National Accreditation Service under the Good Laboratory Practice Compliance Program and is a key member of the National Reference Center for Surveillance and Laboratory Diagnostics of Rickettsiae. She is also an internationally recognized expert in synthetic biology, participating in the Open Ended Online Forum and the Ad Hoc Technical Expert Group under the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity.Her research emphasizes the molecular biology, epidemiology, and diagnostics of rickettsial and related intracellular microorganisms, contributing to innovative detection methods and preventive strategies. Notable publications include Evaluation of cytotoxic activity against A549 human lung cancer cells using green synthesized N-Cholyl D-Penicillamine encapsulated silver and gold nanoparticles, Mucoadhesive and drug release of cholic acid based thiomeric micelles and encapsulated silver and gold nanoparticles for anticancer studies, and C-type natriuretic peptide induces cell death and sensitizes the effect of cisplatin in human non-small cell lung cancer cells. Through decades of research, Mrs. Sekeyová has combined rigorous laboratory investigations with translational and global health applications, establishing herself as a leading authority in virology, rickettsial diseases, and synthetic biology, with a strong commitment to advancing international scientific collaboration and public health initiatives.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Špitalská, E., Sabaka, P., Komorníková, A., Minichová, L., Palkovičová, K., Fenollar, F., Škultéty, Ľ., Miková, E., Sekeyová, Z., & Fournier, P.-E. Abdominal manifestations of Q fever. International Journal of Infectious Diseases.

Danchenko, M., Benada, O., Škultéty, Ľ., & Sekeyová, Z. Culture Isolate of Rickettsia felis from a Tick. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health.

Sekeyová, Z. Case studies of rickettsiosis, anaplasmosis and Q fever in Slovak population from 2011 to 2020. Biologia.

Sekeyová, Z. Detection of Rickettsia raoultii in Dermacentor reticulatus and Haemaphysalis inermis ticks in Slovakia. Biologia.

Sekeyová, Z. Hymenopteran Parasitoids of Hard Ticks in Western Africa and the Russian Far East. Microorganisms.

Matlou Mokgotho | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Sefako Makgatho Health Science University | South Africa

Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho is a distinguished biochemist and academic leader with over two decades of experience in higher education, research, and community development. Currently a Senior Lecturer at Tshwane University of Technology, he has previously served as Professor and Head of Department of Biochemistry at the University of Limpopo. His expertise spans molecular biology, proteomics, bioenergetics, enzymology, and mammalian cell cultures. Beyond academia, Dr. Mokgotho has actively contributed to community health awareness initiatives, youth leadership, and ethical oversight in research and professional bodies. His leadership, research excellence, and dedication to mentorship continue to inspire future scientists in South Africa.

Publication Profile 

Orcid

Education 

Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Biochemistry from the University of Limpopo, conferred. He earned his Master of Science in Biochemistry his Bachelor of Science Honours in Biochemistry  both from the University of the North. He also completed a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Microbiology at the same institution. His academic foundation was laid at Seshigo High School, where he obtained his Senior Certificate. This strong educational background provided him with the knowledge and skills to excel in biochemical sciences and academic leadership.

Experience 

Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho career spans roles from tutor to senior lecturer, professor, and department head. He began lecturing in Biochemistry at the University of the North before joining the University of Limpopo, where he advanced to Professor and Head of Department. His teaching portfolio covers biochemistry, molecular biology, proteomics, cell culture, and bioenergetics. He also served as CEO of Milestevens Development and Properties, showcasing leadership in management. Currently, he is Senior Lecturer at Tshwane University of Technology and a module critical reader at UNISA. His responsibilities include teaching, research coordination, and academic mentorship.

Awards and Honors 

Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho has been recognized for his academic, community, and leadership contributions. He received certificates for AIDS Awareness campaigns and laboratory assistance during his early career, highlighting his dedication to education and health promotion. His leadership in youth and church organizations earned him certificates of moral leadership and community service, while his active role in HIV/AIDS awareness workshops reflected his commitment to social impact. As a council member of the South African Dental Technician Council, he contributed to professional ethics and governance. These accolades underscore his commitment to advancing science, leadership, and community development.

Research Focus 

Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho research focuses on biochemistry, molecular biology, and proteomics, with a special interest in bioenergetics, protein structure-function relationships, and mammalian cell cultures. His work bridges fundamental and applied science, exploring enzymology, molecular mechanisms, and the applications of cell cultures in medical research. He has also contributed to developing experimental methodologies and training students in proposal writing, research principles, and dissertation development. His commitment to advancing biochemistry is reflected in his integration of teaching, research, and community engagement, with a strong emphasis on preparing students for careers in molecular science and addressing health challenges through biotechnological approaches.

Publication Top Notes