Rodrigo Navarro | Tissue Engineering | Tissue Engineering Award

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Dr. Rodrigo Navarro | Tissue Engineering | Tissue Engineering Award

Dr. Rodrigo Navarro, Institute of Polymer Science and Technology, Spain

Dr. Rodrigo Navarro Crespo is a Tenured Scientist at the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), specializing in polymer science and materials chemistry. With a solid foundation in chemistry and an internationally-recognized research profile, he has contributed significantly to the development of advanced polymeric materials with environmental and biomedical applications. His scientific work focuses on sustainable materials, plasticizer migration suppression, polymer surface modification, and chemical recycling. Dr. Navarro has published extensively in high-impact journals and collaborated with researchers across Europe. His ability to innovate in polymer processing, particularly through green chemistry and circular economy principles, positions him at the forefront of modern materials science. In 2020, he was awarded the Best Paper Award by the European Membrane Society. Dr. Navarro’s experience, interdisciplinary mindset, and research excellence make him a strong candidate for recognition in fields like tissue engineering, where advanced and sustainable polymer design is increasingly critical.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Interdisciplinary Expertise: Dr. Navarro’s research integrates polymer chemistry, materials science, and green chemistry, which are highly relevant for tissue engineering. His expertise in designing bio-inspired polyurethanes and non-migrating plasticized polymers aligns with the need for biocompatible, durable, and safe scaffolding materials in regenerative medicine.

  2. Innovation in Polymer Modification: His work on PVC modification, covalent plasticizer bonding, and functional surface-attached polymer layers demonstrates strong potential for developing customized materials with controlled biodegradability and mechanical properties suitable for tissue scaffolds.

  3. Environmental Sustainability Focus: His award-winning contributions to the circular economy, especially the upcycling of PET and membrane recycling, show leadership in sustainable material innovation — a growing priority in biomedical applications.

  4. Publication Impact & Recognition: With highly cited publications in Macromolecules, Langmuir, and Journal of Membrane Science, and the 2020 Best Paper Award, he is a well-recognized expert in polymer systems, which strengthens his academic profile for any prestigious research award.

📌 Areas for Improvement:

  1. Direct Application to Tissue Engineering: While his research strongly supports materials design, there’s limited direct evidence of his work being applied in biological systems such as cell culture, in vivo testing, or tissue integration studies. Expanding collaborations with biomedical researchers or publishing in biomedical journals could solidify his relevance in tissue engineering.

  2. Translational Research Output: Most contributions are fundamental or materials-based; showcasing functional prototypes, patents, or clinical collaborations would boost his impact in the translational science domain where tissue engineering advances often occur.

  3. Broader International Leadership: While experienced and internationally trained, more visibility in international tissue engineering consortia, symposia, or editorial roles in biomedical journals could help affirm his leadership in this interdisciplinary field.

🎓 Education:

Rodrigo Navarro Crespo began his academic career with a BSc in Chemistry from the University of Valladolid (Spain) in 2004, earning distinction. He then pursued a PhD in Chemistry at the Complutense University of Madrid, completing it in 2009, also with distinction. His doctoral research focused on developing functional polymers, laying the groundwork for a research career centered on advanced polymer chemistry and materials science. Dr. Navarro has consistently aimed to integrate fundamental chemistry with applied research, which is evident from his later involvement in high-level research projects in Germany and Spain. His educational path reflects a strong commitment to academic excellence and international collaboration. The combination of chemical synthesis, polymer engineering, and sustainable materials has equipped him with a versatile and interdisciplinary academic foundation, ideally suited for innovation in tissue engineering and biomaterials science.

💼 Experience:

Dr. Navarro’s professional journey started as a PhD student at the Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Polímeros (CSIC) from 2004 to 2008. Post-PhD, he worked in Germany at the Institut für Mikrosystemtechnik (IMTEK) (2009–2010), gaining international experience in microsystems and surface modification. Since 2024, he holds a Tenured Scientist position at CSIC, where he leads innovative projects in polymer chemistry. Over his career, he has developed and characterized novel polymeric materials with diverse applications — from biocompatible films and recyclable polymers to smart functional materials. His multidisciplinary experience spans academic research, applied polymer development, and international cooperation. Dr. Navarro’s blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on research excellence has made him a key figure in advancing sustainable polymer solutions for real-world challenges, aligning well with emerging areas like tissue engineering.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

  • 🎓 Distinction in Chemistry Degree – University of Valladolid, 2002

  • 🎓 Distinction in PhD Chemistry – Complutense University of Madrid, 2009

  • 🏆 Best Paper Award (2020) – European Membrane Society for a publication in Journal of Membrane Science on circular economy and membrane recycling
    Dr. Navarro’s academic distinctions highlight his strong foundational capabilities in chemistry, and his Best Paper Award demonstrates peer-recognized innovation in sustainability-focused research. His scholarly impact is further emphasized by the high citation count of multiple papers, especially in areas like polymer plasticizers and membrane technologies. These recognitions underscore his dedication to impactful, high-quality research — a key qualification for awards in cutting-edge fields such as tissue engineering.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Rodrigo Navarro Crespo’s research centers on advanced polymeric materials with sustainable, functional, and biomedical properties. A core focus has been the modification of PVC and polyurethanes to reduce plasticizer migration — a significant health and environmental issue. He has also developed novel bio-inspired materials, recyclable membranes, and upcycled polyesters, contributing to the circular economy. His work emphasizes green chemistry, high-performance coatings, and functional surfaces, employing photochemical and thermal methods to tailor polymer properties. His recent research aligns with key tissue engineering needs: biocompatibility, controlled degradation, and mechanical robustness. Through collaborative projects, interdisciplinary innovation, and a publication portfolio spanning membrane science, degradation stability, and polymer nanocomposites, Dr. Navarro addresses global challenges like plastic waste and biomedical material safety. His expertise is well-suited to tissue engineering applications where materials science, sustainability, and biofunctionality converge.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 📄 Phthalate plasticizers covalently bound to PVC: plasticization with suppressed migration – Macromolecules, 2010

  2. 📄 Preparation of surface-attached polymer layers by thermal or photochemical activation of α-diazoester moieties – Langmuir, 2013

  3. 📄 Highly flexible PVC materials without plasticizer migration via trichlorotriazine chemistry – Macromolecules, 2016

  4. 📄 New routes to difunctional macroglycols using ethylene carbonate – Polymer Degradation and Stability, 2017

  5. 📄 Design and synthesis of bio-inspired polyurethane films with high performance – Polymers, 2020

  6. 📄 Coumarins into polyurethanes for smart and functional materials – Polymers, 2020

  7. 🏆 Circular economy in membrane technology: Recycling end-of-life reverse osmosis modules – Journal of Membrane Science, 2020

  8. 📄 Preparation of high molecular weight poly(urethane-urea)s bearing deactivated diamines – Polymers, 2021

  9. 📄 Properties of polyurethanes from poly(diethylene glycol terephthalate) – European Polymer Journal, 2021

  10. 🔄 Chemical upcycling of PET waste: Moving to a circular model – Journal of Polymer Science, 2022

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Rodrigo Navarro Crespo is a highly qualified and promising candidate for a Research for Tissue Engineering Award, particularly from the materials development and sustainability angle. His original contributions in polymer chemistry, especially in bio-inspired and functional polymers, offer real value to regenerative medicine through safer, smarter, and more environmentally responsible biomaterials.

Tarun Kumar Upadhyay | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Tarun Kumar Upadhyay | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Tarun Kumar Upadhyay  , Parul University , India

Dr. Tarun Kumar Upadhyay is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biotechnology at Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat, India. He is an accomplished researcher with expertise in natural polymeric drug delivery systems, infectious diseases, and immunobiochemistry. Dr. Upadhyay has contributed significantly to the development of microparticulate formulations for drug targeting and is actively engaged in cutting-edge research on tuberculosis, cancer therapeutics, and immunology. He is a prolific author with numerous publications in prestigious journals, an invited reviewer for various scientific bodies, and a key figure in the academic community, supervising multiple Ph.D. candidates. Dr. Upadhyay’s broad skill set includes bioinformatics, molecular dynamics, and in silico drug design. He has received various awards and honors for his outstanding research contributions.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Academic and Research Background: Dr. Upadhyay holds a Ph.D. in Biotechnology, along with various degrees in Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, and related fields. His academic qualifications, including a post-graduate diploma in Bioinformatics, demonstrate his diverse and robust foundation in scientific research.
  2. Rich Teaching and Mentorship Experience: As an Assistant Professor and Scientist at Parul University, Dr. Upadhyay has extensive teaching experience at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, guiding numerous students through their dissertations, including 18 MSc students and 4 Ph.D. students. His involvement in mentoring Ph.D. scholars and his leadership in the Research Advisory Committee underscore his dedication to nurturing the next generation of scientists.
  3. Outstanding Research Contributions: His research spans multiple facets of biotechnology, including drug delivery, infectious diseases, cancer biology, plant biotechnology, and immunology. With over 40 publications in reputable journals (such as Biomolecules, Agronomy, Molecules, and Antibiotics), he has made significant contributions to understanding complex biological mechanisms, including:
    • Targeted drug delivery using natural polymers (β-glucan microparticles).
    • Anticancer and antimicrobial properties of plant-derived compounds.
    • Immunomodulatory effects of novel therapeutic molecules.

    His work is often published in high-impact journals, with a high citation index (H-index: 17, i10-index: 34, 1169 citations on Google Scholar), showcasing the influence of his research in the scientific community.

  4. Recognition and Awards: Dr. Upadhyay has earned multiple accolades, such as the Best Biotechnologist Award (2020), Young Scientist Award (2020), and Faculty Research Excellence Award (2021) from Parul University, Vadodara. His recognition reflects his substantial impact in the field of biotechnology and life sciences.
  5. International Collaboration and Funded Projects: He has successfully led and contributed to several funded research projects, both independently and in collaboration with national and international institutions. These projects have included studies on antimicrobial and anticancer activities of bioactive molecules derived from fungi and plants, as well as immunomodulatory research related to infectious diseases such as tuberculosis.
  6. Editorial and Peer Review Responsibilities: Dr. Upadhyay’s active involvement in the editorial process and as a reviewer for prestigious journals further highlights his commitment to advancing scientific research. His membership in multiple scientific societies, such as the Indian Society of Cell Biology and International Society for Infectious Diseases, demonstrates his global scientific footprint.
  7. Leadership in Research Infrastructure: As the Member Secretary of the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBKP) at Parul University and his work with biotech infrastructure, he has contributed significantly to shaping safe and ethical research practices in India.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broadening the Scope of Collaborations: While Dr. Upadhyay’s research has spanned various fields, there is room to expand his international collaborations further, particularly with research groups in the US, Europe, and other leading biotech hubs. This could enhance the global visibility of his research.
  2. Engagement in Public Outreach and Science Communication: Although Dr. Upadhyay has been recognized for his academic and research excellence, there is potential for greater involvement in science communication, such as participating in public science outreach programs, seminars, and workshops aimed at making complex scientific findings accessible to the public.
  3. Diversification of Research Areas: Dr. Upadhyay’s work has been primarily focused on certain key themes (e.g., drug delivery, cancer, infectious diseases). Exploring newer interdisciplinary areas like artificial intelligence in drug design, genomics, or precision medicine could further broaden his research portfolio.

Education:

Dr. Upadhyay completed his Ph.D. in Biotechnology from Integral University, Lucknow, India, where his thesis focused on yeast cell wall-derived β-glucan microparticles for anti-TB drug delivery. He also holds an M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Biotechnology, both with honors, from Integral University. Additionally, he has a Post Graduate Diploma in Bioinformatics from NIELIT (Jadavpur University). His academic foundation is complemented by extensive training in bioinformatics, molecular biology, and computational biology, enabling him to conduct innovative research in the areas of drug delivery systems, infectious diseases, and bioinformatics.

Experience:

Dr. Upadhyay has diverse academic and industrial experience spanning over a decade. He has worked as a Quality Control Chemist at Patanjali Ayurved Ltd and has been involved in R&D projects related to drug delivery systems. He has served as a Senior Research Assistant in a Government of UP-funded project on anti-TB drug delivery. In academia, he has held teaching positions at various institutions, including Suresh Gyan Vihar University and Parul University. At Parul University, he is currently supervising multiple Ph.D. students and leading research in the areas of drug delivery, immunology, and cancer research. He is also a member of several academic and research committees.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Upadhyay has received numerous prestigious awards, including the Best Biotechnologist Award (2020), Young Scientist Award (2020), Associate Scientist Award (2021), and Faculty Research Excellence Award (2021) from Parul University. He was also honored with the Overall Best Research Performer Award (2022) and Highest Impact Factor Publication Award (2022) by Parul University. His research contributions have been recognized internationally, and he has been appointed as a Bentham Science Ambassador for 2022-2023. These accolades reflect his commitment to scientific excellence and his leadership in biotechnology research.

Research Focus:

Dr. Upadhyay’s research is focused on developing natural polymer-based drug delivery systems, specifically for infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and cancer. His studies explore the immunological aspects of drug delivery and the use of β-glucan microparticles in targeted therapy. He is also involved in the study of plant-based bioactive molecules, antimicrobial agents, and their therapeutic potential in oncology. His work in bioinformatics includes molecular dynamics, drug design, and prediction of ADMET properties. Dr. Upadhyay aims to advance the therapeutic application of biopolymers and bioactive compounds to improve treatment outcomes in various diseases.

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Terpenoid-Mediated Targeting of STAT3 Signaling in Cancer
  2. Elicitor-Mediated Response of Kalmegh Growth, Yield, and Quality
  3. Genetic Variability and Diversity in Red Onion Genotypes
  4. An Updated Review on Anticancer Efficacy of Melittin from Bee Venom
  5. Biological Activity of Cyclic Peptide from Sphaeranthus amaranthoides
  6. Cytotoxicity of Hydroxyl Functionalized MWCNT in Oral Squamous Carcinoma
  7. Immunomodulatory Role of CDK4/6 Inhibitors in Tumor Microenvironment
  8. Crosstalk Between Immunotherapy and Tumor Metabolism
  9. ACC Deaminase Produced by PGPR Mitigates Osmotic and Salinity Stresses
  10. Nanotechnology-Based Agrochemicals in Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture
  11. Biomedical and Antioxidant Potentialities in Chilli
  12. Identification of Novel Inhibitor of InhA Enzyme in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
  13. Therapeutic Role of Mesenchymal-Derived Stem Cells in COVID-19
  14. Metallic and Polyether Ionophores in Cancer Management
  15. Moringa oleifera: Miracle Plant with Medicinal Importance

Conclusion:

Dr. Tarun Kumar Upadhyay exemplifies what it means to be an outstanding researcher in the field of biotechnology. His impressive academic background, combined with an extensive research portfolio, outstanding teaching contributions, and mentorship of future scientists, makes him an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work not only advances knowledge in biotechnological and pharmaceutical sciences but also holds immense potential for real-world applications in healthcare and agriculture.

His recognition in prestigious journals, his successful research grants, and the awards he has received speak volumes about his research’s depth and impact. Furthermore, his involvement in editorial roles and science policy highlights his leadership within the scientific community.

Considering his innovative research, dedication to teaching, academic leadership, and significant contributions to the scientific community, Dr. Upadhyay is more than deserving of the Best Researcher Award.

 

 

Hanny Chauhan | Plant molecular biology | Best Scholar Award

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Mr Hanny Chauhan | Plant molecular biology | Best Scholar Award

SRF at  Panjab University, India

Hanny Chauhan is currently a Ph.D. Scholar in the Department of Biotechnology at Panjab University, Chandigarh, India. Her research focuses on genome editing using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, transgenics, and plant molecular biology, with a specific interest in improving traits in Solanum tuberosum (potato).

 

Profile:

Professional Achievements:

📚 Publications: Authored multiple papers in reputed journals like Life and PeerJ, exploring topics from CRISPR vectors to gene expression under stress conditions. 🌍 Collaborations: Collaborated with researchers from institutions including the University of Minnesota and INSA, Chandigarh. 🏆 Recognition: Nominated for the Best Research Scholar Award for contributions in plant molecular biology.

Academic Focus:

Hanny Chauhan is dedicated to advancing plant biotechnology and genome editing techniques, particularly in Solanum tuberosum (potato). Her research focuses on CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing, aiming to enhance disease resistance and nutrient content in plants.

Research Focus: Plant Molecular Biology

Hanny Chauhan’s research revolves around leveraging cutting-edge techniques like CRISPR/Cas9 and transgenics to advance plant molecular biology. Specifically, she investigates genetic mechanisms in Solanum tuberosum (potato), aiming to enhance traits crucial for agriculture and sustainability.

 

Publication:
  • Compendium of Plant-Specific CRISPR Vectors and Their Technical Advantages
    • Year: 2021
  • Rapid and Efficient CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Genome Editing in Potato via Hairy Root Induction
    • Year: 2023
  • Prevention of Postoperative Acute Lung Injury (ALI) – The Anaesthetist Role
    • Year: 2015
  • Genome-Wide Identification of 2-Oxoglutarate and Fe (II)-Dependent Dioxygenase Family Genes and Their Expression Profiling under Drought and Salt Stress in Potato
    • Year: 2023
  • Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the Broad-Complex, Tramtrack, and Bric-à-Brac Domain-Containing Protein Gene Family in Potato
    • Year: 2024
  • CRISPR/Cas9 Edited StbHLH47 Lines Exhibit Altered Expression Profiling of Iron Regulating Genes and Increased Iron Content in Solanum tuberosum
    • Year: 2024
  • Genome-Editing Advances for Disease Resistance in Plants
    • Year: 2024