Saika Farook | Microbiology | Excellence in Research Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Saika Farook | Microbiology | Excellence in Research Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Saika Farook | Ibrahim Medical College | Bangladesh 

Dr. Saika Farook is a dedicated microbiologist from Bangladesh with a strong academic background and extensive experience in infectious diseases and microbiology. She earned her MD in Microbiology from BIRDEM Academy (BSMMU) and has been actively involved in research and teaching. Currently, she serves as an Assistant Professor at Ibrahim Medical College and an Adjunct Faculty at BRAC University. Dr. Farook’s work centers on identifying and combating bacterial infections, especially Burkholderia pseudomallei, the causative agent of melioidosis, a neglected tropical disease. She has contributed significantly to both clinical diagnostics and molecular research and has been recognized as a speaker at international conferences. Saika’s commitment to bridging laboratory findings with clinical practice makes her a valuable asset in the field of medical microbiology. She is a life member of Bangladesh Society of Medical Microbiologists and contributes globally to the American Society for Microbiology.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid
Scopus

Education:

Dr. Saika Farook completed her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from Noakhali Medical College, affiliated with Chittagong University. She then pursued a Doctor of Medicine (MD) in Microbiology from BIRDEM Academy under Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), graduating . Her early education includes O’ Levels from Shaheen English Medium School with 8 A’s and Higher Secondary Certificate (H.S.C.) from Rajuk Uttara Model College, Dhaka. Her rigorous academic journey demonstrates a consistent pursuit of excellence, culminating in advanced specialization in microbiology, infectious diseases, and molecular diagnostics. She has also enhanced her skills through multiple workshops on bioinformatics, bacterial genomics, and infection prevention.

Experience:

Dr. Farook has accumulated rich professional experience in both clinical and academic settings. She has been an Assistant Professor at Ibrahim Medical College’s Department of Microbiology. She holds an adjunct faculty role in the Department of Mathematics and Natural Science at BRAC University. Previously, she served as Junior Consultant at DMFR Molecular Lab & Diagnostics and worked as a Virologist during the critical COVID-19 period. She completed a rigorous MD residency in Microbiology at BIRDEM Academy and served as an intern doctor at Jananeta Nurul Haque Adhunik Hospital. Her roles highlight strong clinical acumen paired with research-driven teaching, enhancing laboratory diagnostic techniques and molecular microbiology.

Research Focus:

Dr. Saika Farook’s research primarily targets Burkholderia pseudomallei, the bacterium responsible for melioidosis, focusing on its detection, molecular epidemiology, and antimicrobial susceptibility. She has contributed to developing novel diagnostic methods, such as Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification assays and selective culture media. Her research also explores the clinical epidemiology of infectious diseases, including latent tuberculosis and IgG4-related disorders. Funded by both Ibrahim Medical College and the Ministry of Health, her ongoing projects delve into molecular epidemiology and clinical sample analysis from tertiary hospitals in Dhaka. Her work bridges molecular diagnostics and public health, addressing gaps in disease recognition in Bangladesh. Dr. Farook has actively presented her findings in national and international forums, reflecting her commitment to advancing microbiological research with real-world clinical applications.

Publications Top Notes: 

  1. An improved Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification based assay for the rapid Identification of Genomic DNA of Burkholderia pseudomallei

  2. Melioidosis cases detected in Dhaka, Bangladesh: a positive impact of 3rd South Asian Melioidosis Congress

  3. Effectiveness of a novel selective medium “Modified MacConkey Agar for Burkholderia” for isolation of Burkholderia pseudomallei

  4. Knowledge on melioidosis among healthcare workers of Bangladesh

  5. Melioidosis: Still Unresolved and Undetected in Unexplored Regions

  6. Interferon Gamma Release Assay for Latent Tuberculosis Screening in High TB-Endemic Region: A Retrospective Study

  7. Use of Comparative Genomics to resolve an unusual case of Aminoglycoside Susceptibility in Burkholderia pseudomallei

  8. Localized Disseminated Tuberculosis in a 3 year’s old Bangladeshi boy: A Case Study

  9. Modified MacConkey agar: a simple selective medium for isolation of Burkholderia pseudomallei from soil

  10.  Phylogeographic characterization of Burkholderia pseudomallei isolated from Bangladesh

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Dr. Saika Farook is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Excellence in Research Award. Her strong academic background, significant research contributions in microbiology and infectious diseases, and active participation in academic and scientific communities demonstrate her dedication and impact in her field. With some strategic focus on expanding international collaborations, translational research, and leadership in mentoring, she could further strengthen her candidacy. Overall, her achievements and ongoing commitment to advancing medical microbiology make her an excellent contender for recognition through this award.

Mohamed Sadek BACHENE | Microbial Cell Biology | Best Innovation Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamed Sadek BACHENE | Microbial Cell Biology | Best Innovation Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamed Sadek BACHENE , Institute of Veterinary Sciences at the University of Médéa , Algeria

Dr. Mohamed Sadek Bachene is a distinguished veterinarian and academic from Algeria, born on November 26, 1984, in Medea. He holds extensive experience in veterinary medicine, academic teaching, and scientific research. Bachene has contributed to numerous scientific publications and has presented at international conferences. He is a recognized educator and supervisor in the field of veterinary science, particularly in histology, animal physiology, and pathology. With a strong background in veterinary sciences, Bachene has made significant contributions to the study of coccidiosis in rabbits and broiler chickens. He is highly active in the development of veterinary education and scientific research in Algeria, earning recognition for his innovation and academic leadership.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Mohamed Sadek Bachene’s work stands out for its deep focus on veterinary parasitology, particularly in combating coccidiosis in rabbits and broiler chickens. His innovative research on vaccine trials for Eimeria magna and other parasites in Algerian local rabbits has made significant strides in the prevention of coccidiosis. His published studies and presentations at international conferences highlight the practical applications of his work in veterinary medicine, especially in local farming contexts. Bachene’s ability to combine academic teaching, research, and practical veterinary practice demonstrates a holistic approach that benefits both the academic and professional veterinary communities.

Areas for Improvement:

While Dr. Bachene has made substantial contributions, there is potential for growth in collaborative, interdisciplinary research. Engaging in more international partnerships or joining larger research consortia could increase the scope of his work. Additionally, a greater emphasis on the long-term environmental and socio-economic impacts of his research in rural areas could further strengthen the relevance of his work to both the veterinary and agricultural industries.

Education:

Dr. Mohamed Sadek Bachene holds a Ph.D. in Veterinary Sciences (2013–2019) from ENSV and a Magister degree (2009–2013) in Veterinary Sciences with a specialization in breeding and pathology of backyard animals. His academic journey is complemented by short-term internships at Beijing Agricultural University, focusing on PCR and sequencing of parasite genetic material. Additionally, Bachene completed a university accreditation in Veterinary Sciences (2019–2021). He has excelled in both research and practical application, contributing to significant advancements in the study of animal health and pathology.

Experience:

Dr. Bachene’s professional experience spans from private veterinary practice in 2011 to prominent academic roles, including teaching at Blida and Médéa Universities. He has served as a Teacher-Assistant at YAHIA FARES Médéa University and held a leadership position as Co-head of the Department responsible for graduation and pedagogy (2016–2019). In addition, he actively participated in university governance through memberships in administrative councils and scientific commissions. His administrative and academic leadership roles have shaped veterinary education and research within the university system.

Research Focus:

Dr. Bachene’s research is focused on veterinary parasitology, with a particular interest in coccidiosis in rabbits and poultry. He has conducted extensive studies on Eimeria species, exploring their pathogenicity, prevalence, and potential vaccination strategies. His work in the field of veterinary medicine includes the development of experimental vaccines and the study of parasite genetics using molecular techniques. Bachene’s research aims to improve animal health management practices, specifically in rural and agricultural settings, and to contribute to the overall betterment of veterinary care in Algeria.

Publications Top Notes:

  • 2018: “A vaccination trial with a precocious line of Eimeria magna in Algerian local rabbits” 🐇💉
  • 2018: “Prevalence of coccidian infection in rabbit farms in North Algeria” 🐇🔬
  • 2019: “Prevalence of Rabbit Coccidia in Medea Province, Algeria” 🐇📊
  • 2021: “Vaccination of Algerian Local Rabbits with Precocious Strains of Eimeria magna and Eimeria media” 🐇💉
  • 2025: “Prevalence of coccidiosis in broiler chickens in Medea, Algeria” 🐔🔬

Conclusion:

Dr. Mohamed Sadek Bachene is highly deserving of the Research for Best Innovation Award due to his exceptional work in veterinary parasitology, his innovation in vaccine development, and his commitment to improving animal health and farming practices in Algeria. His active role in education, research, and professional development in veterinary science makes him an outstanding candidate. Enhancing global collaborations and focusing on sustainable, long-term impact could further amplify the influence of his research.