Dr. José Leite, Universidade de Brasília – UnB, Brazil

Dr. José Roberto Leite is a Brazilian biochemist and molecular biologist with a PhD from the University of Brasília 🇧🇷 and postdoctoral training at EMBRAPA and the University of Porto 🇵🇹. He is an Associate Professor at UnB’s Faculty of Medicine and Visiting Researcher at i3S. 🧪 As co-founder of People&Science, he works on biotechnology, nanobiotech, and bioactive peptides for health and environment 🌿. With 200+ international publications 📚, patents under development 💡, and global collaborations 🌍, he bridges biodiversity and innovation. Dr. Leite also serves as Associate Editor of the Journal of Global Innovation.

Publication Profile

Education

Dr. José Roberto Leite earned his PhD in Biological Sciences (Biochemistry/Molecular Biology) from the University of Brasília 🇧🇷 and completed postdoctoral training at EMBRAPA and the University of Porto (REQUIMTE) 🇵🇹. He serves as an Associate Professor at UnB’s Faculty of Medicine and is a Visiting Researcher at i3S 🧬. He coordinated graduate programs at UFPI and UnB and founded the Biotec/UFPI research group 🧑‍🔬. As co-founder of People&Science, he leads cutting-edge work in biotechnology, nanobiotechnology, and bioprospecting for health and the environment 🌱. He is also Associate Editor of the Journal of Global Innovation 📘 and promotes international collaboration.

Professional Memberships

Dr. José Roberto Leite is actively engaged in Brazil’s leading scientific communities and holds esteemed memberships in the Brazilian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 🧪 and the Brazilian Society of Biotechnology 🧬, reflecting his deep commitment to advancing life sciences and innovation. In addition, he plays a key editorial role 📖 in the Journal of Global Innovation (JGI), contributing to the dissemination of cutting-edge research and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration 🌐. His involvement in these professional circles underscores his dedication to scientific excellence, knowledge sharing, and the promotion of impactful biotechnology and molecular biology initiatives across Brazil and beyond.

Research Focus

Dr. José Roberto Leite focuses on cutting-edge research in biotechnology, nanobiotechnology, and natural product-based drug discovery 🌱. His work spans the development of bioactive peptides 🧬, antimicrobial and anticancer compounds 💊, and innovative drug delivery systems 🚀. He explores biodiversity to identify novel molecules from amphibians 🐸, plants 🌿, and marine life 🌊 for therapeutic and diagnostic applications. Dr. Leite also contributes to the advancement of biosensors, nutraceuticals, and functional biomaterials. His interdisciplinary research bridges biochemistry, molecular biology, and pharmacology, driving translational science for global health and environmental impact.

Publication Top Notes

Dermaseptins from Phyllomedusa oreades andPhyllomedusa distincta: ANTI-TRYPANOSOMA CRUZI ACTIVITY WITHOUT CYTOTOXICITY TO MAMMALIAN CELLS

Phylloseptins: a novel class of anti-bacterial and anti-protozoan peptides from the Phyllomedusa genus

Transtornos de ansiedade e exercício físico

Identification of a cowpea γ‐thionin with bactericidal activity

Antimicrobial activity of the bufadienolides marinobufagin and telocinobufagin isolated as major components from skin secretion of the toad Bufo rubescens

Medical students, spirituality and religiosity-results from the multicenter study SBRAME

Anti-inflammatory and Antinociceptive Activity of Epiisopiloturine, an Imidazole Alkaloid Isolated from Pilocarpus microphyllus

Novel dermaseptins from Phyllomedusa hypochondrialis (Amphibia)

Development and antibacterial activity of cashew gum-based silver nanoparticles

Antinociceptive activity of the monoterpene α-phellandrene in rodents: possible mechanisms of action

The NMR-derived solution structure of a new cationic antimicrobial peptide from the skin secretion of the anuran Hyla punctata

Antidiarrheal activity of cashew GUM, a complex heteropolysaccharide extracted from exudate of Anacardium occidentale L. in rodents

Yu Liu | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Published on 03/04/202503/04/2025 by Top Pharmaceutical

Yu Liu | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Yu Liu, China Institute of Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd, China

Dr. Liu Yu (b. January 11, 1981, Hengyang, Hunan) is a distinguished researcher and doctoral supervisor specializing in medicinal chemistry. He earned his Ph.D. from the Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences (2011). Currently, he serves as Deputy Director at the China National Institute for the Control of Pharmaceutical and Biological Products and the Shanghai Drug Synthesis Process Engineering Technology Research Center. He is also a standing committee member of the Health Economics Theory and Policy Committee. Dr. Liu plays a pivotal role in pharmaceutical research and technology transfer in China.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

Mr. Yu Liu pursued his education in Medicinal Chemistry 🧪 at the Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences 🎓. He was enrolled as a full-time student from September 2008 to July 2011 📅. During this period, he dedicated himself to advanced research in the field, ultimately earning a Doctorate degree 🎖️. His studies focused on the development of medicinal compounds and pharmaceutical innovations, contributing to the field of drug discovery and development 💊. With a strong academic foundation, Mr. Liu gained expertise in chemical synthesis and pharmacology, preparing him for a successful career in medicinal sciences 🔬.

Professional Leadership

Mr. Yu Liu serves as the Deputy Director 🏛️ at both the Technology Transfer Center, China National Institute for the Control of Pharmaceutical and Biological Products and the Shanghai Drug Synthesis Process Engineering Technology Research Center 🔬. In these roles, he plays a pivotal part in advancing pharmaceutical and biotechnology research 💊. His leadership drives innovation in drug development and synthesis, ensuring progress in the field of medicinal chemistry 🧪. With his extensive expertise, Mr. Liu significantly contributes to technology transfer, regulatory advancements, and pharmaceutical innovation, reinforcing his influence in the global healthcare industry 🌍.

Experience

Mr. Yu Liu is an esteemed member of high-level academic committees 🏛️, including the Standing Committee of the Health Economics Theory and Policy Professional Committee under the Chinese Association of Health Economics 📊. His active participation in these organizations reflects his dedication to bridging scientific innovation and economic policy in healthcare 💡💰. By contributing to policy development and strategic decision-making, he plays a crucial role in shaping the future of health economics and pharmaceutical advancements 💊. His interdisciplinary expertise ensures a significant impact on both scientific research and economic frameworks, fostering innovation in healthcare systems 🌍.

Research Focus

Yu Liu’s research focuses on analytical chemistry, particularly in pharmaceutical analysis. His expertise lies in the development and validation of advanced chromatographic techniques, such as GC (Gas Chromatography) and HPLC-RID (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Refractive Index Detection). His work involves identifying and quantifying related substances in pharmaceutical compounds, including novel impurities in tetrabenazine. His contributions ensure drug purity, safety, and efficacy, making a significant impact on quality control and regulatory compliance in the pharmaceutical industry. His research bridges analytical chemistry and pharmaceutical sciences, advancing drug formulation and safety.

Publication Top Notes

GC and HPLC-RID method development and validation for the determination of twelve related substances, including several novel compounds in tetrabenazine

Roxana Matran | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Published on 23/01/202523/01/2025 by Top Pharmaceutical

Roxana Matran | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr Roxana Matran, UMF “Carol Davila”, Romania

Dr. Roxana Matran is a distinguished pediatric gastroenterologist and academic with a Ph.D. from Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy (2017) 🎓. An Assistant Professor at the same university since 2019, she excels in teaching and research on pediatric pulmonology and gastroenterology. Her clinical expertise at “Grigore Alexandrescu” Emergency Hospital for Children includes contributions to groundbreaking clinical trials on inflammatory bowel diseases 🏥🔬. A dedicated volunteer with MD Caravana cu Medici 🤝, she brings healthcare to underserved communities. Dr. Matran’s active membership in ESPGHAN and advisory roles showcase her impactful influence in public health policy 🌍✨.

Publication Profile

orcid

Educational Backgrounds

Assist. Prof. Dr. Roxana Matran embarked on her academic journey at the prestigious Central School in Bucharest, where she specialized in Mathematics-Informatics with bilingual French instruction (📘✏️). She continued her education at “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in 2009 (🎓🩺). Driven by her passion for medicine, she pursued a Ph.D. at the same university, completing her thesis on factors contributing to pulmonary disease in cystic fibrosis between 2013 and 2017 (📄🫁). Her dedication and expertise in the medical field have solidified her reputation as a leading academic and researcher in Bucharest (🌟🏥).

Work Experiance

Assist. Prof. Dr. Roxana Matran is a distinguished pediatric gastroenterologist and academic based in Bucharest. She serves as a member of the Advisory Committee on Post-Vaccination Adverse Reactions, analyzing vaccine-related health concerns (💉📊). She is also a sub-investigator in pivotal clinical trials, including studies on Vedolizumab and Adalimumab for pediatric Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis (🔬📑). Dr. Matran volunteers with Caravana cu Medici, offering medical consultations in underserved Romanian villages (🚑🤝). As an Assistant Professor at “Carol Davila” University, she teaches fifth-year medical students and conducts extensive research (📚👩‍🔬). Her work at “Grigore Alexandrescu” Emergency Hospital focuses on consultations, rounds, and clinical studies (🏥👶).

Membership

Assist. Prof. Dr. Roxana Matran is an active member of esteemed professional organizations in her field. Since June 2019, she has been a Full Member of the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (ESPGHAN), contributing to advancements in pediatric healthcare across Europe (🌍👶🩺). Additionally, she has been a dedicated member of the Romanian Society of Pediatrics since July 2016, working to promote excellence in pediatric medicine and research in her home country (🇷🇴📚💉). Her involvement in these societies underscores her commitment to improving children’s health and staying at the forefront of medical advancements (🌟🔬).

Conference and Seminars

Assist. Prof. Dr. Roxana Matran has an extensive track record of participation in prestigious medical events and specialized training programs worldwide. In 2024, she is set to attend the 5th Liver Transplant School in Brussels (25–28 September) and the ESPGHAN Mastercourse in Parenteral Nutrition in Linz, Austria (4–6 March). Her prior engagements include the ESPGHAN IBD Masterclass in Helsinki, Finland (2022) and the International Symposium on Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Edinburgh, Scotland (2022). Over the years, she has honed her expertise in pediatric gastroenterology, nutrition, and pulmonology, attending courses in Italy 🇮🇹, Austria 🇦🇹, France 🇫🇷, and Greece 🇬🇷, and even completing a post-graduate program online 🌐.

Community Impact

Assist. Prof. Dr. Roxana Matran is deeply committed to serving underserved communities, demonstrating her passion for equitable healthcare access. She actively volunteers with MD Caravana cu Medici, a noble initiative providing essential medical consultations in impoverished Romanian villages 🏡. Through this work, Dr. Matran brings her expertise in pediatric gastroenterology and nutrition to those who need it most, offering care, guidance, and hope 🌟. Her dedication to improving public health goes beyond the clinic, reflecting a strong sense of compassion and responsibility toward marginalized populations 🤝. Dr. Matran’s efforts exemplify the true spirit of community service and medical care ❤️.

Clinical Expertise

Assist. Prof. Dr. Roxana Matran has made significant contributions to pediatric gastroenterology through her clinical practice, research, and involvement in clinical trials. As a pediatric gastroenterologist at “Grigore Alexandrescu” Emergency Hospital for Children 🏥, she seamlessly combines patient care with groundbreaking research. Dr. Matran has actively contributed as a subinvestigator for leading pharmaceutical companies, including Takeda Pharmaceuticals (VedolizumabSC-3003) and AbbVie (Adalimumab), advancing therapies for pediatric inflammatory bowel disease 🔬. She also researches post-vaccination adverse reactions as a member of the Advisory Committee at the Ministry of Health, ensuring better health outcomes for children globally 💉.

Research Focus

Dr. Roxana Elena Smădeanu’s research focus primarily revolves around pediatric health, with a special emphasis on diagnosing and managing complex diseases such as cystic fibrosis, intestinal tuberculosis, and respiratory conditions in children. Her work includes exploring microbiota’s role in functional abdominal pain disorders, respiratory symptomatology associated with COVID-19 in pediatric patients, and rare genetic syndromes like Menke-Hennekam syndrome. Additionally, her research delves into diagnostic methods like sweat conductivity in cystic fibrosis. This body of work aligns with clinical and laboratory research aimed at improving pediatric healthcare and diagnostics. 🧑‍🔬🩺👶

Publication Top Notes

Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor-α Use in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease—Reports from a Romanian Center

Anti TNF-a Use in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease – Reports from a Romanian Center

Quality of Life of Pediatric Patients with Chronic Intestinal, Liver, and Pancreatic Diseases During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Menke–Hennekam Syndrome: A Literature Review and a New Case Report

Michael Swedberg | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Published on 20/01/202522/01/2025 by Top Pharmaceutical

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

Assoc Prof Dr. Fatemeh Moradian| Drug Discovery and Development |Best Researcher Award

Published on 24/09/2024 by Top Pharmaceutical

Assoc Prof Dr. Fatemeh Moradian|Drug Discovery and Development|Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Fatemeh Moradian at Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University,Iran

PROFILE

orcid

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Fatemeh (Elham) Moradian began her academic journey with a B.Sc. in Biology from the University of Shiraz in 1996. Her passion for biochemistry soon led her to pursue further studies at Tarbiat Modares University, where she earned both her M.Sc. in Biochemistry in 2000 and a Ph.D. in Biochemistry in 2006. Her doctoral research, with its focus on enzymology and the intricate biochemical mechanisms involved in living organisms, set the stage for a prolific academic and research career. During this time, she developed expertise in protein structure and function, which later became a cornerstone of her research.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Following the completion of her Ph.D., Dr. Moradian joined Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University (SANRU), where she has been a faculty member from 2006 to 2019. Throughout her tenure, she has taught several advanced courses, including Biochemistry, Enzymology, Biochemistry Mechanisms of Cancer, Animal Cell Culture, and Bioinformatics. Her teaching approach, known for integrating practical applications and research into the curriculum, has shaped many aspiring scientists and biochemists.
Dr. Moradian also had the opportunity to undertake a sabbatical at the University of Alberta in Canada, where she worked at the prestigious Michael James Lab in the Department of Biochemistry. During this 7-month research period (2005-2006), she contributed to a project focused on the structural genomics of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, honing her expertise in microbial biochemistry and structural analysis.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Moradian’s research interests span a wide array of biochemistry-related fields, but her core focus lies in enzymology, protein purification, cancer research, and microbial biochemistry. Her research on the isolation, purification, and characterization of novel enzymes has made significant contributions to both environmental and medical biotechnology. One of her early landmark studies involved the isolation and characterization of an alkaline protease from Bacillus sp HS-08, which was presented at the International Conference on Environmental, Industrial, and Applied Microbiology in Spain in 2005.

Her research has taken her across the globe, presenting papers at prestigious international conferences in countries like China, France, the Netherlands, and Russia. Her work on thermostable proteases and their resistance to extreme conditions has significant implications for industrial biotechnology, especially in detergent and solvent industries.

One of her notable research projects involved studying the inhibitory effects of silver (Ag) and iron (Fe) colloidal nanoparticles on P. aeruginosa and E. coli growth, presented at the 17th International Conference on Biotechnology and Nanotechnology in Venice, Italy, in 2015. This work highlights her foray into nanotechnology and its biomedical applications, particularly in developing antimicrobial agents.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Throughout her career, Dr. Moradian has gained international recognition for her research contributions. She has been invited to present her work at numerous prestigious conferences, where her findings have been well-received by the global scientific community. Her work on cancer research, particularly the cytotoxic effects of caffeic acid extracted from Echinacea purpurea on human gastric cancer cells, has garnered significant attention. Presented at the International Conference on Medical and Health Sciences in Saint Petersburg, Russia, in 2018, this study underscores her commitment to discovering new avenues for cancer treatment using natural compounds.

Additionally, Dr. Moradian’s research on lactoferrin and its antimicrobial and anticancer effects, which she presented at various conferences in Paris and Indonesia, has positioned her as a key contributor to the field of medical biochemistry, particularly in exploring non-invasive treatments for stomach adenocarcinoma.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Moradian’s contributions have not only advanced scientific knowledge but have also inspired future generations of scientists. Through her teaching and mentorship, she has guided numerous students toward successful careers in biochemistry and biotechnology. Her integration of theoretical knowledge with real-world applications has been particularly influential in shaping her students’ understanding of the critical role biochemistry plays in solving global challenges, from environmental sustainability to cancer treatment.

Her research on thermostable enzymes and antimicrobial nanoparticles continues to have a broad impact on industries ranging from pharmaceuticals to environmental sciences. Additionally, her work on stress responses in plants, particularly the superoxide dismutase activity in salt stress conditions in Aeluropus littoralis, has implications for agricultural biotechnology and improving crop resilience.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

As an established biochemist with a strong research portfolio, Dr. Moradian’s legacy is already well-established in the fields of enzymology, cancer research, and microbial biochemistry. However, her work is far from over. She continues to explore new frontiers in biochemistry, particularly in the areas of cancer therapeutics and environmental biotechnology. With her vast experience and network of international collaborators, Dr. Moradian is poised to make further groundbreaking contributions to science.
Her future projects are expected to delve deeper into understanding the biochemical mechanisms underlying cancer cell resistance and finding novel ways to target them using natural compounds and engineered nanoparticles.

In summary, Dr. Fatemeh Moradian is a biochemist whose career is marked by innovative research, impactful teaching, and a commitment to scientific discovery. Her work continues to inspire and influence both her peers and the next generation of scientists.

🎓Publication

In vitro study of the expression of autophagy genes ATG101, mTOR and AMPK in breast cancer with treatment of lactoferrin and in silico study of their communication networks and protein interact

Authors :Atefeh Mashhadi Kholerdi; Fatemeh Moradian; Havva Mehralitabar

Journal :Biophysics and Molecular Biology
Year :2024

Identification, Isolation, Cloning, and Expression of a New Alkaline Serine Protease Gene from Native Iranian Bacillus sp. RAM 53 for Use in the Industry

Authors : Aliakbar Alei; Fatemeh Moradian; Ayoub Farhadi; Mehdi Rostami

Journal :Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology
Year :2023

Nanoencapsulation of oral‐pharmaceutical lactoferrin using chitosan and the evaluation of stability against trypsin and pepsin and its antibacterial effect

Authors :Ijaz, R., Waqas, M., Mahal, A., … Alatawi, N.S., Aloui, Z.

Journal :Journal of Molecular Graphics and Modelling,
Year :2024

Rational designing of phenothiazine dioxide based hole transporting materials for efficient perovskite solar cells

Authors : Farzaneh Hedyeloo; Fatemeh Moradian; Mehran Rostami

Journal :Micro & Nano Letters
Year :2023

The effect of lactoferrin on ULK1 and ATG13 genes expression in breast cancer cell line MCF7 and bioinformatics studies of protein interaction between lactoferrin and the autophagy initiation complex

Authors : Zahra Karabi; Fatemeh Moradian; Mitra Kheirabadi

Journal :Cell Biochemistry and Biophysics
Year :2022

Ms. Nokubonga Zulu|Formulation Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on 21/08/202421/08/2024 by Top Pharmaceutical

Ms. Nokubonga ZulFormulation Science |Best Researcher Award|

Ms. Nokubonga Zulu at Johannesburg,South Africa

PROFILE

scopus

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Nokubonga Given Zulu’s journey into the field of metallurgy began with a strong academic foundation laid at the University of Johannesburg, one of South Africa’s leading institutions. She pursued a Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEng Tech Hons) in Extraction Metallurgy, a rigorous program that provided her with the essential knowledge and skills required in the field. Nokubonga demonstrated exceptional dedication and discipline throughout her undergraduate studies, which culminated in her graduation. Her passion for metallurgy, coupled with her strong academic performance, set the stage for her future endeavors.

Following her undergraduate studies, Nokubonga continued to excel academically by enrolling in a Master of Engineering (MEng) degree in Extraction Metallurgy at the same university. She completed this program with distinction, a testament to her hard work and commitment to her field. Her master’s research focused on Biomining, particularly bioflotation, which is a cutting-edge area of study within metallurgical engineering. This research not only broadened her knowledge but also positioned her as a budding expert in the emerging field of biometallurgy.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Nokubonga’s professional journey began while she was still a student. She gained invaluable experience working in various roles at the University of Johannesburg, including as a Mineral Processing Lab Assistant and an Analytical Lab Assistant. These positions allowed her to develop a practical understanding of metallurgical processes and laboratory techniques. She also served as an Academic Tutor, where she helped students grasp complex concepts in process engineering, research methodology, and metallurgical projects. Her role as a Research Assistant further honed her skills in conducting experiments and contributing to academic research, which proved instrumental in her subsequent career.

In 2022, Nokubonga expanded her professional horizons by undertaking a three-month training program as a Trainee Metallurgist at the Kibali Gold Mine, operated by Barrick Gold Corporation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This experience exposed her to real-world applications of mineral processing, hydrometallurgy, and pyrometallurgy. Working at one of the largest gold mines in Africa, Nokubonga deepened her understanding of the practical challenges faced in the industry, enhancing her critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Currently, Nokubonga is working as a Graduate Metallurgist at Siyanda Bakgatla Platinum Mine. In this role, she is responsible for plant inspections and tracking process recipes based on day-to-day changes in the plant. This position allows her to apply her academic knowledge in a practical setting, contributing to the optimization and efficiency of metallurgical processes in the platinum mining sector.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Nokubonga’s contributions to the field of metallurgy are noteworthy, particularly in the area of biomining. Her master’s research on bioflotation, a process that uses biological agents to separate valuable minerals from ores, has the potential to revolutionize the field by providing more sustainable and environmentally friendly methods of mineral extraction. This research has not only advanced the academic understanding of biomining but has also positioned Nokubonga as a leader in this niche field.

Her academic contributions include five published research outputs, comprising two journal articles and three conference papers. These publications reflect her deep engagement with the metallurgical community and her commitment to advancing knowledge in her field. Nokubonga’s work is currently under further review, indicating that she continues to push the boundaries of her research, with the potential for more significant contributions in the future.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Nokubonga’s academic excellence and professional achievements have not gone unnoticed. Completing her MEng degree with distinction is a significant accolade that underscores her dedication and expertise. While specific awards and recognitions are not detailed in the provided information, her progression from a student to a respected professional in the field is itself a testament to her capabilities and the recognition she has garnered within the academic and professional communities.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Nokubonga Given Zulu’s impact extends beyond her immediate academic and professional achievements. As a South African female in a traditionally male-dominated field, she serves as a role model and inspiration for other young women aspiring to enter the fields of engineering and metallurgy. Her dedication to acquiring knowledge and her pursuit of excellence have positioned her as a leader in her field, with the potential to influence future generations of metallurgists.

Her work in biomining, particularly bioflotation, has the potential to significantly impact the metallurgical industry by promoting more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. This focus on innovation and sustainability aligns with global trends in mining and metallurgy, further enhancing her influence on the field.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

Looking ahead, Nokubonga’s aspirations include pursuing a Ph.D. with a focus on Geometallurgy and Biometallurgy. This next step in her academic journey will allow her to further specialize in her areas of interest and contribute even more significantly to the field. Her ongoing research and future studies are expected to yield new insights and innovations, further solidifying her legacy as a pioneer in biomining.

Nokubonga’s legacy will be one of dedication, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. As she continues to advance in her career, her contributions to both academia and industry are likely to leave a lasting impact on the field of metallurgy. Her journey serves as an inspiration to others, particularly young women, who aspire to make their mark in science and engineering.

Conclusion 🌟

Nokubonga Given Zulu is a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication, discipline, and a passion for learning. Her academic and professional journey reflects a commitment to excellence and a desire to make meaningful contributions to the field of metallurgy. As she continues to pursue her goals, her impact on the field and her legacy as a pioneering female metallurgist are set to grow, inspiring future generations to follow in her footsteps.

🎓Publication

Optimization of Upper group 2 flotation using Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans as a modifier

Authors :Zulu, N.G., Thethwayo, B.M., Madiba, M.
Journal :Minerals Engineering
Year :2024

THERMODYNAMIC EFFECTS OF TEMPERATURE DURING ROASTING OF CHROMITE FOR SODIUM CHROMATE SALTS FORMATION

Authors :Mvita, M.J., Zulu, N.G., Thethwayo, B., Makhamisa, S.
Journal :MetalurgijaT
Year :2024