Hareesh Nair | Drug Discovery and Development | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Dr. Hareesh Nair | Drug Discovery and Development | Outstanding Scientist Award

Texas Tech University Health Science Center | United States

Dr. Hareesh B. Nair, Ph.D., is a distinguished biochemist and translational scientist whose career spans academia, biotechnology innovation, and advanced research leadership. He completed his academic training in life sciences and biochemistry in India, followed by specialized research fellowships in oxidative lipidomics and hormonal carcinogenesis at leading U.S. institutions. These early experiences laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to understanding disease mechanisms and developing targeted therapeutic solutions.Dr. Nair’s professional journey reflects a rare blend of deep scientific expertise and strategic research leadership. Over the course of his career, he has held progressive roles ranging from instructor and assistant professor to senior scientist, director, and senior director of translational research and external innovation. His contributions at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and the Texas Biomedical Research Institute significantly advanced the fields of breast cancer biology, hormonal carcinogenesis, melanoma signaling pathways, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and targeted drug delivery. His work also includes pioneering estrogen-dependent cancer research, mechanistic studies on aromatase pathways, development of innovative cancer detection strategies, and creation of non-human primate models for reproductive disorders.At Evestra, Inc., Dr. Nair led multidisciplinary teams driving the translational development of oncology and women’s health therapeutics. He spearheaded multiple preclinical programs, established strategic collaborations, guided biomarker discovery, contributed to regulatory submissions, and supported business development through scientific due diligence. His leadership also resulted in the advancement of first-in-class and best-in-class therapeutic candidates, expansion of oncology pipelines, and successful acquisition of non-dilutive federal funding. His contributions include numerous publications, patents, and project management of large-scale contraceptive development initiatives supported by major global health foundations.In his current academic role at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center El Paso, Dr. Nair is establishing a cutting-edge research laboratory at the chemistry–biology interface. His group focuses on identifying novel drug targets, decoding disease mechanisms, and transforming molecular insights into preclinical therapeutic strategies for cancers and other complex diseases. He remains deeply engaged in collaborative clinical and translational research, particularly in gynecologic oncology, triple-negative breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and endometrial cancer. His expertise also extends to long-acting contraceptive technologies, anti-HIV formulations, and experimental therapeutics for endometriosis and uterine fibroids.Beyond research, Dr. Nair has served extensively as a scientific review officer, facilitating numerous peer-review panels for federal biomedical research programs. His work has been recognized through multiple competitive honors, travel awards, and scientific achievement distinctions. With a strong commitment to innovation, mentorship, and multidisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Hareesh B. Nair continues to shape the future of translational medicine through impactful research, strategic leadership, and unwavering dedication to improving patient health outcomes.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Aller, E. J., Nair, H. B., Vadlamudi, R. K., & Viswanadhapalli, S. (2025). Significance of midkine signaling in women’s cancers: novel biomarker and therapeutic target. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(10), 4809.

Blankenship, L., Pratap, U. P., Yang, X., Liu, Z., Altwegg, K. A., Santhamma, B., … Lai, Z. (2022). Inhibition of LIFR blocks adiposity‑driven endometrioid endometrial cancer growth. Cancers, 14(21), 5400.

Nair, H. B., Ford, A., Dick, E. J., Jr., Hill, R. H., Jr., & VandeBerg, J. L. (2014). Modeling sunscreen‑mediated melanoma prevention in the laboratory opossum (Monodelphis domestica). Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research, 27(5), 822‑830.

Nickisch, K., Nair, H. B., Kesavaram, N., Das, B., Garfield, R., Shi, S. Q., … Edwards, D. P. (2013). Synthesis and antiprogestational properties of novel 17‑fluorinated steroids. Steroids, 78(9), 895‑902.

Bhaskaran, S., Dileep, K. V., Deepa, S. S., Sadasivan, C., Klausner, M., Krishnegowda, N. K., … Nair, H. B. (2013). Gossypin as a novel selective dual inhibitor of V‑RAF murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1 and cyclin‑dependent kinase 4 for melanoma. Molecular Cancer Therapeutics, 12(4), 567‑576.

Budrys, N. M., Nair, H. B., Liu, Y. G., Kirma, N. B., Binkley, P. A., Kumar, S., … Tekmal, R. R. (2012). Increased expression of macrophage colony‑stimulating factor and its receptor in patients with endometriosis. Fertility and Sterility, 97(5), 1159‑1165.e1.

Bekri Melka Abdo | Drug Discovery and Development | Top Pharmaceutical Scientist Award

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Bekri Melka Abdo | Drug Discovery and Development | Top Pharmaceutical Scientist Award

Mr. Bekri Melka Abdo, Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Ethiopia

Bekri Melka Abdo is a dedicated organic chemist specializing in natural product chemistry 🌿. With expertise in plant sample collection, extraction, compound isolation, and structure elucidation, he focuses on bioactive compounds from Ethiopia’s medicinal and aromatic plants. His research contributes to developing natural product-based treatments for leishmaniasis 🦠. He has two published journal articles, an h-index of 7, a Google patent, and an ISBN-registered book 📖. Actively engaged in research and consultancy, Bekri is committed to innovative drug discovery and advancing natural product chemistry for global health.

Publication Profile

orcid

Education

Bekri Melka Abdo is a dedicated professional in organic chemistry 🧪, specializing in natural product chemistry 🌿. His expertise encompasses plant sample collection and preparation, extraction, compound isolation, and structure elucidation. He is skilled in qualitative and quantitative analysis, as well as biological activity determination of natural products extracted from various aromatic and medicinally significant 🌱 exotic and endemic plant species of Ethiopia. With a strong foundation in the field, he contributes to the discovery and characterization of bioactive compounds, supporting advancements in medicine, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology 🔬. His research plays a vital role in exploring Ethiopia’s rich botanical resources.

Experience 

Bekri Melka Abdo is a passionate researcher in natural product chemistry 🌿, with a strong track record of research and innovation 🔬. He has successfully completed two research projects and maintains an h-index of 7 📊. His contributions extend to industry consultancy and collaborative projects, showcasing his impact in the field. He has authored a book with an ISBN 📖 and has a Google patent pending. His work is recognized in SCI and Scopus-indexed journals 🏅, with two publications. Actively engaged in editorial roles and professional memberships, he continues to drive scientific advancements in bioactive compound discovery.

Award

Bekri Melka Abdo, with his early career achievements and promising research in natural product chemistry 🌿, is an ideal candidate for the Young Scientist Award 🏆. His dedication to bioactive compound discovery, coupled with his impactful contributions to scientific research and innovation 🔬, highlights his potential for future breakthroughs. With a strong foundation in natural product extraction, analysis, and biological activity determination, he is paving the way for new discoveries in medicine and biotechnology 💊. This award category recognizes emerging researchers like Mr. Abdo, whose work demonstrates both excellence and the promise of transformative scientific advancements.

Research Focus

Mr. Bekri Melka Abdo specializes in phytochemistry and antiparasitic drug discovery, focusing on the bioassay-guided isolation of natural compounds for therapeutic applications. His research on dehydrocostus lactone from Echinops kebericho highlights its potential as a leishmanicidal drug 🦟⚕️. His work integrates natural product chemistry, pharmacognosy, and infectious disease research, contributing to novel drug development against leishmaniasis. By combining traditional medicinal plants with modern bioassays, he advances the search for effective, plant-derived antiparasitic treatments 🌱🔬. His research holds promise for addressing neglected tropical diseases through sustainable and nature-inspired therapies.

Publication Top Notes

Bioassay-guided isolation of dehydrocostus lactone from Echinops kebericho as a leishmanicidal drug

Shanthi Veerappapillai | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

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Shanthi Veerappapillai | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Dr Shanthi Veerappapillai, Vellore Institute of Technology, India

Dr. Shanthi Veerappapillai is a distinguished Professor at VIT University, specializing in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology. With a Ph.D. from VIT, her research interests include computational protein analysis, drug resistance studies, and virtual screening, particularly focusing on infectious diseases like HIV and tuberculosis. She has led multiple funded research projects and published over 130 peer-reviewed articles. Dr. Veerappapillai has been recognized with awards like the Women Achiever Award for Sponsored Research Excellence (2020) and has supervised numerous Ph.D. graduates. Her dedication to education and research is also reflected in her active participation in conferences and professional societies. 👩‍🔬📚💻🌍

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education Qualification

Dr. Shanthi Veerappapillai holds a Ph.D. in Bioinformatics from VIT University, Tamil Nadu, India, and an M.Tech in Chemical Process and Design from SASTRA University, Tamil Nadu, India. She also earned a B.Tech in Chemical Engineering from EGS Pillai Engineering College, Bharathidasan University, Tamil Nadu, India. With a strong foundation in both chemical engineering and bioinformatics, Dr. Veerappapillai brings a multidisciplinary approach to her research and academic work. Her diverse academic background equips her with the expertise to bridge the gap between technology and biology, contributing to advancements in various scientific fields. 🧬⚙️🎓

Leadership in Research

Dr. Shanthi Veerappapillai is a dedicated scientist with extensive leadership experience as Principal Investigator (PI) in multiple prominent projects. Her research spans critical areas such as drug repurposing strategies and cancer research, showcasing her expertise in advancing both medical and computational biology. Through her work, she has contributed significantly to the development of innovative therapeutic approaches, emphasizing her commitment to enhancing healthcare and medical research. Her ability to lead and collaborate on large-scale projects underscores her impact in the field, making her a valuable asset in shaping the future of medical science and computational biology. 🧬🔬💊

Mentorship and Teaching

Dr. Shanthi Veerappapillai is a distinguished academic with vast experience in supervising successful Ph.D. candidates and teaching specialized subjects in biotechnology and bioinformatics. Her dedication to fostering academic development is evident in her role as a mentor to future researchers. With a passion for guiding students through advanced research topics, she has contributed significantly to shaping the next generation of experts in her field. Her work in biotechnology and bioinformatics continues to inspire students, encouraging innovation and critical thinking in these dynamic disciplines. 👩‍🔬📚🎓🔬👩‍💻

Community Engagement

Dr. Shanthi Veerappapillai is a dedicated academician who has made significant contributions to the scientific community through her active involvement in organizing conferences and workshops. As a member of various professional bodies, Dr. Veerappapillai continuously strengthens her presence in the academic world, sharing her expertise and collaborating with fellow researchers. Her commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering professional connections has had a lasting impact on her field. With a focus on promoting growth in the academic and scientific community, Dr. Veerappapillai’s efforts continue to inspire others. 🌍🧑‍🏫📚

Awards and Achievement

Dr. Shanthi Veerappapillai is a distinguished researcher with 131 peer-reviewed journal articles and an H-index of 14. She received the Best Chapter Award from BRSI-VIT for her exceptional contributions in 2023. She was honored with the Women Achiever Award for Sponsored Research Excellence in 2020 and has been a Research Fellow at INTI International University, Malaysia since June 2023. Dr. Veerappapillai’s academic journey includes producing 100% results in Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics courses and securing university ranks and prizes for academic excellence. She has also received several accolades, including a Best Poster Presentation Award at VIT University. 🏆📚👩‍🔬🌟

Research Focus

Dr. V. Shanthi’s research primarily focuses on molecular simulation, bioinformatics, and computational approaches to drug discovery. She has explored mechanisms of drug resistance, particularly in influenza virus neuraminidase, using molecular simulations to understand oseltamivir resistance. Her work also spans polypharmacology, investigating therapeutic agents for non-small cell lung cancer, and the identification of potential inhibitors for various viruses like H5N1. Additionally, she has contributed to bioprocess industry applications, drug repurposing, and plant-based therapeutic compounds. Her research aims at enhancing drug design, discovering novel therapeutic agents, and understanding the molecular interactions that govern drug efficacy. 🔬💊🦠💡

Publication Top Notes

Exploring the cause of oseltamivir resistance against mutant H274Y neuraminidase by molecular simulation approach

Current progress and future perspectives of polypharmacology: From the view of non-small cell lung cancer

Bioactive Amento flavone isolated from Cassia fistula L. leaves exhibits therapeutic efficacy

Application of heat exchangers in bioprocess industry: a review

Multi-dimensional screening strategy for drug repurposing with statistical framework—a new road to influenza drug discovery

Identification of potential inhibitors of H5N1 influenza A virus neuraminidase by ligand-based virtual screening approach

Role of the cation-π interaction in therapeutic proteins: A comparative study with conventional stabilizing forces

 

 

 

Victor Ajayi | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

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Victor Ajayi | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Mr Victor Ajayi, University of Medical sciences Ondo Nigeria, Nigeria

Mr. Oluwadamilola Victor Ajayi is a distinguished academic and researcher in human physiology 🧬, with a B.Tech, M.Sc., and M.Phil. from reputable institutions. His groundbreaking research focuses on anti-ulcerogenic and antioxidant effects, phytochemical profiling, and bioactive compounds’ therapeutic roles 🩺. With over a decade of teaching experience at UNIMED 🎓, he excels in curriculum development and research mentorship. A member of esteemed bodies like PSN and Physoc 🏅, Mr. Ajayi actively engages in advancing physiology through publications and conferences. His dedication to science and education makes him a standout contributor in his field 🌍.

Publication Profile

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Educational Backgrounds

Victor Ajayi’s academic journey spans several prestigious institutions. He is currently pursuing an M.Phil in Human Physiology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), starting in November 2024. He previously attended the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo, from August 2022 to December 2024, and earned his M.Sc. in Human Physiology from the University of Ibadan in November 2018. Victor completed his B.Tech in Human Physiology at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) in November 2011. His earlier academic milestones include WAEC (2009) and NECO (2002). 🎓📚👨‍🎓

Work Experience

Victor Ajayi has a diverse work experience spanning various roles in academia and healthcare. He started with industrial training as a Technologist at Spring Specialist Hospital in 2010, followed by NYSC at Ondo State School of Nursing, where he taught Physiology and Anatomy. Victor later worked as a teacher and guest tutor at different institutions, including Integrity Nursery, Ondo State School of Nursing, and several colleges. At the University of Medical Sciences, he serves as an Assistant Lecturer, course coordinator, and level adviser, while also supervising graduate students. His contributions to Physiology education remain invaluable. 🏥📚👨‍🏫

Membership

Mr. Victor Ajayi D. is an active member of esteemed professional bodies such as the Physiological Society of Nigeria (PSN) and The Physiological Society (Physoc). Over the years, he has attended several notable conferences and workshops, including the 28th and 29th Scientific Conferences of PSN at the University of Ilorin in 2008 and 2009, and the 31st conference at Lagos State University in 2011. He also participated in workshops on pedagogy, effective communication, animal ethics, and integrated registration. His dedication to continued learning is evident in his certified seminar attendance, such as the Bioinformatics and Genomics course in October 2024. 📚🔬🧑‍🏫

Community and Professional Engagement

Mr. Victor Ajayi has consistently showcased remarkable leadership in professional communities. As a dedicated member of esteemed organizations such as the Physiological Society of Nigeria (PSN) and The Physiological Society (Physoc), he has made significant contributions to the advancement of his field. His active participation in numerous conferences and workshops underscores his commitment to continuous learning and staying at the forefront of his profession. Through these engagements, Mr. Ajayi has demonstrated a passion for professional growth and a commitment to fostering collaboration within the scientific community. His involvement continues to inspire and influence others in the field. 💼📚

Accolades and Recognition

Mr. Victor Ajayi has made significant contributions to research, education, and professional development, positioning him as a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. Although his CV does not highlight specific prior awards, his innovative approaches to addressing physiological challenges and his commitment to advancing scientific knowledge demonstrate his potential. Additionally, his dedication to mentoring the next generation of researchers reflects his passion for nurturing talent and fostering academic growth. Mr. Ajayi’s work continues to inspire and impact the research community, showcasing his outstanding ability to drive change and innovation in his field. 🏆📚🔬

Research Focus

Mr. Victor Ajayi’s research focuses on the anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects of pasteurized yoghurt in mitigating gastric ulceration induced by indomethacin in male Wistar rats. This study delves into gastrointestinal health and the potential therapeutic benefits of food-based interventions in inflammatory conditions. His work contributes to pharmacology, nutritional science, and biomedical research with an emphasis on how diet and natural substances can influence disease progression and provide alternative treatments. This aligns with the field of Pharmacological Toxicology and Gastroenterology, exploring the intersection of nutrition and pharmacology in disease management. 🧑‍⚕️🍽️💊

Publication Top Notes

Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effect of pasterurised yoghurt in indomethacin induced gastric ulceration in male Wistar rats

Michael Swedberg | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

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Michael Swedberg | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Dr Michael Swedberg, Swedberg Preclinical Partner, Sweden

Dr. Michael Swedberg is a distinguished pharmacologist with extensive expertise in safety pharmacology, CNS pharmacology, gastrointestinal pharmacology, and drug abuse assessment. He has held key leadership roles, including Associate Director at AstraZeneca and founder of Swedberg Preclinical Partner AB. His global impact includes contributions to regulatory compliance, developing novel animal models, and mentoring future researchers. With a Ph.D. in discrimination learning and postdoctoral training at NIDA, Dr. Swedberg has collaborated internationally and received numerous accolades for his innovative research and leadership. His career embodies excellence in pharmacology and preclinical drug discovery. 🌍💊🔬

Publication Profile

scopus

Education

Dr. Michael Swedberg is a distinguished academic and researcher, having earned his Ph.D. in 1985 from the University of Uppsala, Sweden. His doctoral dissertation focused on “A Model of Discrimination Learning with Interoceptive Stimuli.” He completed his postdoctoral fellowship at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), specializing in addiction research at the National Institute on Drug Abuse’s Preclinical Pharmacology Branch in Baltimore, Maryland (1985–1988). Additionally, Dr. Swedberg holds a Bachelor of Social Science (B.S.Sc.) from Uppsala University, with a comprehensive background in psychology, sociology, and law. 🧠📚🎓

Professional Appointments

Dr. Michael Swedberg has had an extensive and distinguished career in pharmacology and drug discovery. From 2014 to 2021, he was the Founder and CEO of Swedberg Preclinical Partner AB in Sweden. Prior to that, he was a Partner and Consultant at The Research Network (TRN) from 2014 to 2016. His earlier career includes key roles at AstraZeneca R&D, where he served as Associate Director in Safety Pharmacology and Preclinical Development. He also held senior leadership positions at Novo Nordisk and Ferrosan. Dr. Swedberg’s journey began as a Lecturer at Mälardalen University in 1981. 🧑‍🔬💉📚

Academic Service

Dr. Michael Swedberg has made significant contributions to the field of pharmacology and neuroscience through various roles. He served as a board member for the Department of Psychology at the University of Uppsala and the Faculty of Social Sciences from 1980 to 1985. His leadership extended to chairing the Council of Graduate Students. Recognized for his service, Dr. Swedberg received awards from the Drug Abuse Liability Ad Hoc Committee and for his work with the Lilly–Novo Nordisk Muscarinic Research Collaboration. He has also been a grant evaluator for the European Union and Poland’s National Centre for Research and Development. 🌍🔬🧠

Presentations

Dr. Michael Swedberg has made significant contributions to the field of drug safety and abuse liability assessment. His research, presented at multiple prestigious meetings, includes the role of drug discrimination studies in evaluating novel compounds’ abuse potential. Notably, his work at the Safety Pharmacology Society, American College of Toxicology, and the Swedish Pharmaceutical Congress has advanced methodologies like rat self-administration and drug discrimination for psychoactive effects. His work on the interaction between mGluR5 antagonists and benzodiazepines also stands out. Swedberg’s contributions to safety pharmacology have had a lasting impact on CNS drug development and regulatory guidelines. 🧠💊

Lecturing and teaching

Dr. Michael Swedberg has delivered extensive lectures and seminars on safety pharmacology, drug abuse, and CNS risk assessment. His contributions include lectures at the American College of Toxicology, Safety Pharmacology Society, and the European Congress of Toxicologic Pathology, focusing on drug dependence, abuse liability, and CNS safety. Additionally, Swedberg has provided in-depth training on the regulatory and industrial challenges in drug development at AstraZeneca and other global platforms. His teaching spans from the biomedical program at Karolinska Institute to the University of Uppsala, covering neuropharmacology, psychopharmacology, and drug addiction. His educational materials are widely respected in the field. 🧠📚💊

Academic Supervision

Dr. Michael Swedberg has mentored numerous students at various stages of their academic careers, including graduate, Ph.D., and postdoctoral researchers. He supervised students at Umeå University, University of Uppsala, and Karolinska Institute, guiding experimental work in fields such as cannabinoid tolerance, dopamine release, and nicotine’s effects on learning. His postdoctoral supervision included projects on visual and auditory discrimination in drug testing. Swedberg’s research has been supported by multiple prestigious grants, such as the Clas Groschinsky Memorial Foundation and the Swedish Medical Research Council. His contributions have significantly advanced brain and behavior research. 🎓🧠💡

Committee Service

Dr. Michael Swedberg held several key roles at AstraZeneca, including membership in the Safety Knowledge Group for CNS and leadership in CNS GLP Safety Pharmacology Harmonization. He was also a part of multiple committees, such as the AstraZeneca Expert Advisory Group on Abuse Liability and the Cross Company Abuse Liability Consortium. Dr. Swedberg contributed to international organizations like PhRMA and CPDD, focusing on drug abuse liability. He attended professional courses in safety pharmacology, project management, and leadership, further enhancing his expertise. Additionally, he completed a teaching course at Karolinska Institute, strengthening his academic influence. 🧠💊🎓

Research Focus

Dr. Michael Swedberg’s research focuses on the pharmacology of muscarinic receptors and their potential therapeutic applications, particularly in relation to neurological and psychiatric disorders. His work has delved into muscarinic receptor agonists, with significant contributions to the understanding of their antipsychotic and antinociceptive properties. Additionally, he has explored the role of nicotinic compounds and their reinforcing effects. His research has implications for treating conditions like schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease, and irritable bowel syndrome. 🧠🔬💊 His studies on receptor-ligand interactions and pharmacological profiles contribute to the development of novel drugs for various neurological and gastrointestinal conditions.

Publication Top Notes

Approaches for early identification of abuse potential liability

Drug discrimination: A versatile tool for characterization of CNS safety pharmacology and potential for drug abuse

Drug Discrimination: Use in Preclinical Assessment of Abuse Liability

AZD9272 and AZD2066: Selective and highly central nervous system penetrant mGluR5 antagonists characterized by their discriminative effects

Prediction and modeling of effects on the QTc interval for clinical safety margin assessment, based on single-ascending-dose study data with AZD3839

A multi-site comparison of in vivo safety pharmacology studies conducted to support ICH S7A & B regulatory submissions

Establishment of auditory discrimination and detection of tinnitus induced by salicylic acid and intense tone exposure in the rat