Shima Shafiee | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Shima Shafiee | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Shima Shafiee, Razi University, Iran

Shima Shafiee is an accomplished Iranian researcher specializing in computer systems architecture and bioinformatics, with a strong focus on machine learning applications in biological data analysis. She recently earned her Ph.D. in Computer Engineering from Razi University, where she focused on predictive modeling of protein-peptide binding interactions. Currently under consideration at the IDEL Lab, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Shima has authored numerous national and international publications. With a rich background in algorithm optimization and artificial intelligence, her research stands at the intersection of computational biology, deep learning, and evolutionary algorithms. Shafiee’s work has contributed to the development of predictive tools in bioinformatics, such as DP-site and SPPPred, and she consistently ranks at the top of her academic cohort. Her ability to integrate traditional computer engineering concepts with advanced biological research makes her a notable candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Strong Academic Foundation
    Dr. Shafiee has a stellar academic record, graduating first in her Ph.D. class at Razi University with a CGPA of 3.77 and a thesis grade of 3.98, under the supervision of respected experts in computer engineering and bioinformatics.

  2. Innovative Interdisciplinary Research
    Her research bridges computer systems architecture, machine learning, and bioinformatics, with notable contributions to protein-peptide binding prediction, a critical domain in drug discovery and computational biology.

  3. High-Impact Publications
    She has published in IEEE/ACM Transactions, Applied Soft Computing, and Methods, reflecting both quality and visibility in international forums. Tools like SPPPred and DP-site demonstrate her practical impact in bioinformatics.

  4. Research Originality and Versatility
    Dr. Shafiee has developed hybrid models combining genetic programming, support vector machines, and deep learning, with practical tools and open-source contributions.

  5. Early Recognition and Outreach
    She has been active in academic dissemination since 2015, with selected papers in national and international conferences, showing early promise and consistency.

  6. Teaching and Mentorship
    Through her roles as a lecturer at multiple institutions, she has contributed to academic growth at the grassroots level.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. International Collaboration & Visibility
    While her publication quality is strong, Dr. Shafiee could expand her global visibility through collaborations with international research labs, EU Horizon, or NIH-funded projects.

  2. Post-Ph.D. Grant Applications
    She could benefit from applying for independent research grants or postdoctoral fellowships to lead projects that could shape the future of AI in biology.

  3. Open-Source Software and Data Availability
    While her models are impactful, increased accessibility via open-source repositories (e.g., GitHub) would boost reproducibility and encourage broader adoption.

  4. Industry Impact Metrics
    More emphasis on industry collaborations, patents, or application of models in clinical/biotech settings would enhance translational impact.

Education:

Shima Shafiee completed her Ph.D. in Computer Engineering (2016–2024) from Razi University, specializing in Computer Systems Architecture. Her dissertation titled “Application of learning-based models in predicting of protein-peptide binding interactions” earned her a thesis grade of 3.98/4.00 and an overall CGPA of 3.77. She worked under the guidance of Dr. Abdolhossein Fathi and Dr. Ghazaleh Taherzadeh, focusing on bioinformatics using deep learning, ensemble learning, and evolutionary algorithms. Prior to her Ph.D., she was ranked third in her Master’s program (2015). Shafiee’s educational background is rooted in computational problem-solving, algorithm development, and cross-disciplinary research involving biological data. Her consistent academic excellence and high-ranking performance culminated in her being recognized as the top Ph.D. student in 2025, a testament to her dedication and scholarly capabilities. Her education blends rigorous theory with innovative applied research, making her exceptionally well-prepared for high-impact contributions in academia and industry.

Experience:

Shima Shafiee’s experience spans both academic and applied computer engineering roles. She began her journey with an internship at Kimia Pardaz Pars Company (2013). Between 2015 and 2016, she served as a lecturer for computer fundamentals at Fajr High School and Al-Zahra Seminary School in Jiroft, where she taught introductory computer science to pre-university students. These experiences highlight her foundational teaching skills and outreach to educational institutions in her community. Her major academic contribution began during her Ph.D., where she collaborated with IDEL Lab and contributed to developing tools like SPPPred and DP-site, combining genetic programming, support vector machines, and deep learning to predict protein-peptide binding regions. Her experience uniquely blends educational outreach, algorithmic development, and publication-driven research in machine learning, optimization, and computational biology, reflecting her versatility and impact across the scientific and academic spectrum.

Awards & Honors:

Shima Shafiee has earned multiple distinctions recognizing her academic and research excellence. In 2015, she was named the third-place student in her Master’s program, demonstrating early academic excellence. Her continuous dedication to research and scholarship led her to be recognized as the first-place student in her Ph.D. program in 2025. One of her papers was selected at the 2nd International Congress of Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, and Information Technology (2015), highlighting the innovation and relevance of her early research in optimization algorithms. Her high publication output, including appearances in top-tier venues like IEEE/ACM Transactions on Computational Biology and Bioinformatics and Applied Soft Computing, reflects a consistent standard of excellence. These honors collectively showcase her as a standout figure in her field, with both academic and applied contributions acknowledged at national and international levels.

Research Focus:

Shima Shafiee’s research lies at the intersection of machine learning, bioinformatics, and computational systems engineering. Her primary focus is the prediction of protein-peptide binding interactions using intelligent algorithms such as genetic programming, ensemble models, and deep learning techniques. She has proposed several innovative hybrid models combining sequence-based and structure-based features to identify critical interaction residues. Her doctoral thesis and publications have led to the development of tools like SPPPred and DP-site, which aid in biological sequence analysis, with applications in drug discovery, protein function prediction, and biomedical engineering. Shafiee also has a strong background in optimization algorithms, especially particle swarm optimization (PSO), applied to computationally intensive problems like bin packing. Her ability to blend theoretical computing with practical biological data analysis makes her contributions valuable to both computational scientists and biologists, and positions her as a leading candidate for research recognition awards in AI and bioinformatics.

Publications Top Notes: 

  • 🧠 SPPPred: sequence-based protein-peptide binding residue prediction using genetic programming and ensemble learning (IEEE/ACM TCBBS, 2022)

  • 🔍 Prediction of protein–peptide-binding amino acid residues regions using machine learning algorithms (CSICC, 2021)

  • 🧬 Combination of genetic programming and SVM-based prediction of protein-peptide binding sites (Journal of Computing and Security, 2021)

  • 🧪 Prediction of protein–peptide binding residues using classification algorithms (IEEE Bioengineering Conf, 2020)

  • 🧠 A Review of the Uses of AI in Protein Research (Peptide Science Conf, 2019)

  • 🤖 DP-site: dual deep learning method for protein-peptide interaction site prediction (Methods, 2024)

  • 🧬 Protein-peptide interaction region prediction using generative sampling & ensemble DL (Applied Soft Computing, 2025)

  • 🧠 Comparing classification vs. segmentation predictors in protein-peptide interaction (CSICC, 2025)

  • 🧬 Leveraging structure-based and learning-based predictors in protein-peptide interaction (ICCKE, 2024)

  • 📘 Application of learning-based models in protein-peptide binding (Ph.D. Dissertation, 2024)

Conclusion:

Dr. Shima Shafiee is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on her academic excellence, interdisciplinary research achievements, and consistent contributions to the fields of artificial intelligence and bioinformatics. Her ability to bridge computer science and biological challenges has resulted in meaningful and applicable solutions. She has displayed originality, depth, and foresight in her work, developing novel methods that align with modern computational biology trends.

Mengting liu | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mengting liu | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mengting liu, Xi’an Jiaotong University, China

Dr. Mengting Liu is an Associate Professor and Master’s Supervisor at the School of Electrical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University. A promising scholar in advanced battery materials, she has made significant contributions to lithium-sulfur, sodium-ion, and zinc-based battery technologies. Dr. Liu holds a Ph.D. in Condensed Matter Physics from Lanzhou University and completed joint doctoral training at the Georgia Institute of Technology, under the mentorship of Prof. Gleb Yushin. As the principal investigator of several high-profile national projects, her work centers around electrolyte design, interfacial chemistry, and cathode material innovation. Dr. Liu has authored over 50 SCI papers in top-tier journals and holds more than 30 patents, reflecting her innovative contributions to electrochemical energy storage. With an H-index of 24 and successful technological transformations, she stands out as a leading young researcher shaping the future of sustainable energy materials in China and globally.

Publication Profile: 

scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. High-Impact Publications

    • Over 50 SCI-indexed papers in world-renowned journals such as J. Am. Chem. Soc., Advanced Materials, Energy & Environmental Science, and Nano Energy.

    • Numerous first-author and corresponding-author contributions, showcasing leadership in research.

  2. Innovation in Battery Technology

    • Pioneer in sodium-ion, lithium-sulfur, and zinc-ion battery materials, particularly focusing on interfacial engineering and electrolyte design.

    • Leads cutting-edge research in cold-environment batteries and high-voltage cathodes.

  3. Recognition and Funding

    • Principal Investigator of multiple National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) projects.

    • Successfully translated 3 technologies into industrial application – indicating practical impact.

  4. Patent and Intellectual Property

    • 30+ patents applied/granted, reflecting a commitment to innovation and intellectual property creation.

  5. Academic Metrics

    • H-index: 24, indicating solid citation impact and relevance in the field.

  6. International Exposure

    • Conducted joint Ph.D. research at Georgia Institute of Technology, under the mentorship of global battery expert Prof. Gleb Yushin.

  7. Mentorship and Leadership

    • Serves as Master’s Supervisor, contributing to the training of the next generation of researchers.

🔧 Areas for Improvement:

  1. Public and Global Recognition

    • While the academic output is outstanding, broader international visibility (e.g., keynote speeches, global consortia participation) could strengthen recognition.

  2. Cross-disciplinary Expansion

    • Exploring AI-driven materials discovery or solid-state battery systems could further diversify her portfolio and enhance future relevance.

  3. Team Expansion and Postdoctoral Supervision

    • Expanding mentorship to include postdoctoral researchers and international collaborators could amplify research output and impact.

📚 Education:

Dr. Mengting Liu earned her Ph.D. in Condensed Matter Physics from Lanzhou University (2015–2021), focusing on electrochemical materials and battery interface design. During her doctoral studies, she was awarded a prestigious national scholarship for joint training at the Georgia Institute of Technology (2018–2020), where she conducted cutting-edge research in the School of Materials Science and Engineering under Prof. Gleb Yushin. Her work there focused on advanced cathode materials for sodium-ion and lithium-sulfur batteries, combining material design, characterization, and performance optimization. Her academic foundation is grounded in interdisciplinary training, bridging physics, chemistry, and materials science. Her research was pivotal in understanding phase transitions, solid–electrolyte interfaces, and novel electrolyte systems, which has set the stage for her postdoctoral and faculty research directions in energy storage. Her academic path reflects a strong alignment with innovation in clean energy technologies and fundamental materials science.

🧪 Experience:

Since November 2021, Dr. Mengting Liu has served as an Assistant Professor (Qingxiao Program A) at Xi’an Jiaotong University’s School of Electrical Engineering. She is actively involved in supervising graduate students and leading independent research in electrochemical energy storage. Prior to this role, she spent over two years at the Georgia Institute of Technology during her doctoral studies, collaborating with international experts and engaging in high-impact research. She has led several major research projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, focusing on electrolyte structure regulation and cathode performance optimization. Her industrial collaborations have led to three technological transformations and over 30 patents. Dr. Liu’s interdisciplinary background and international exposure have enabled her to contribute extensively to frontier research in lithium-ion, lithium-sulfur, and sodium-ion battery technologies. Her teaching and mentoring roles complement her research, contributing to talent development in the energy storage field.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Mengting Liu’s research is centered on electrochemical energy storage, with a particular focus on sodium-ion, lithium-sulfur, and lithium-ion batteries. Her work involves the design of high-performance cathode materials, such as layered oxides and composite structures, and the development of nonflammable, stable electrolytes that enable long-life and high-temperature battery operation. She is especially recognized for her studies on interfacial engineering, including cathode-electrolyte interphases (CEI) and solid electrolyte interphases (SEI), which are critical to battery safety and longevity. Her recent research expands into entropy-regulated materials and polymer electrolytes to tackle extreme environmental conditions like ultra-low temperatures. With a holistic approach combining material synthesis, mechanism analysis, and performance validation, Dr. Liu aims to develop next-generation batteries with high energy density, long cycle life, and environmental adaptability. Her research is not only academically impactful but also industrially relevant, bridging fundamental science with practical innovation.

📄 Publication Top Notes: 

  1. 🧯 Cation−Anion Regulation in Flame-Retardant Electrolytes for Safe Na-Ion Batteries – J. Am. Chem. Soc. (2025)

  2. 🔥 Nonflammable Sulfone-Based Electrolytes for High-Temp LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 – ACS Energy Lett. (2024)

  3. ❄️ Inorganic-Rich Interphases via Nonflammable Electrolytes for Low-Temp LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 – Adv. Funct. Mater. (2024)

  4. ⚡ Tailoring Cathode–Electrolyte Interface for High-Power Lithium–Sulfur Batteries – Nano-Micro Lett. (2025)

  5. 🔋 Wadsley–Roth Structure Engineering for High-Power Li-Ion Batteries – Energy Environ. Sci. (2024)

  6. 🔄 Biphaseto-Monophase Transition in Na0.766+xLixNi0.33-xMn0.5Fe0.1Ti0.07O2 – Carbon Energy (2024)

  7. 🛡️ Zn-Ion Channels with Double-Network Layer for Stable Zinc Anodes – Energy Storage Mater. (2024)

  8. 🔗 In-Situ Polymerized Ether Gel Electrolyte for High-Voltage Li-Metal Batteries – Adv. Funct. Mater. (2024)

  9. 🔧 Reinforced Bimetal Oxide-Based PEO Electrolytes for Stable Interfaces – Adv. Funct. Mater. (2025)

  10. ♻️ Phase-Stable and Air-Stable O3-Type Entropy-Reinforced Na Cathodes – Nano Energy (2025)

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Mengting Liu is exceptionally well-qualified for the Best Researcher Award. Her track record reflects a rare blend of deep theoretical knowledge, experimental expertise, and real-world application in the fast-evolving field of energy storage.

With a robust publication portfolio, a leadership role in nationally-funded projects, multiple technological transformations, and strong international training, she has already demonstrated leadership and innovation that align perfectly with the purpose of the award.

Nisha Agrawal | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Nisha Agrawal | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Nisha Agrawal, Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), India

Dr. Nisha Agrawal is a seasoned HPC (High-Performance Computing) specialist and currently serves as Scientist E at the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Pune. With over 20 years of expertise, she specializes in GPGPU computing, parallel programming, and the optimization of scientific applications on heterogeneous supercomputers. A NVIDIA-Certified Mentor, she is a recognized leader in GPU-accelerated simulation and a frequent mentor at OpenHackathons worldwide. She is an accomplished speaker with 30+ invited talks at IITs, IISERs, and major scientific forums. Her portfolio includes numerous peer-reviewed publications and the Best Paper Award at IEEE TEMSMET 2021. Dr. Agrawal’s deep commitment to scientific research, HPC education, and her passion for innovation in parallel computing make her a standout candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Domain Expertise (20+ Years)
    Dr. Agrawal has over two decades of hands-on experience in High-Performance Computing (HPC), which showcases both her technical maturity and consistency in research.

  2. Specialized Skill Set in GPGPU & Scientific Computing
    She is highly proficient in CUDA, OpenACC, MPI, OpenMP, and has successfully ported and optimized complex applications like DFT, NAMD, ANUGA, and WRF on heterogeneous (CPU+GPU) systems.

  3. Mentorship and Knowledge Dissemination
    As an NVIDIA-Certified Mentor and participant in OpenHackathons, she contributes not only as a researcher but also as a mentor and educator, spreading HPC knowledge to broader communities.

  4. Recognized Publications & Awards
    With 12+ peer-reviewed papers, including a Best Paper Award at IEEE TEMSMET-2021, she has established a credible presence in the international research community.

  5. Invited Speaker & Thought Leader
    Having delivered 30+ invited talks at premier institutions (IITs, IISERs), her influence in promoting HPC education and innovation is notable.

  6. Cross-Disciplinary Impact
    Her research spans multiple domains such as molecular dynamics, weather modeling, and flood simulation, indicating interdisciplinary relevance and applicability.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader International Collaboration
    While her national contributions are significant, increased participation in international research collaborations or joint projects could amplify her global academic impact.

  2. Patents and Industry Innovation
    Though she has notable research publications, contributions in the form of patents, industry tech transfer, or commercialization could further strengthen her applied research portfolio.

  3. Exploration of AI-HPC Synergies
    Given the growing overlap between AI/ML and HPC, engaging in hybrid research areas could help future-proof her work and widen its application.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Nisha Agrawal holds a Master of Technology (M.Tech) in Computer and Information Technology from S.P. Pune University (2016–2018), where she graduated with an Outstanding grade. Her foundational technical background stems from a Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) in Information Technology from the University of Rajasthan, completed in 2005. Her academic journey is marked by both excellence and consistency, having also cleared the GATE 2005 with an impressive All India Rank of 695 in IT. Throughout her education, she has built a robust foundation in programming, system architecture, and computational modeling, which became pivotal in shaping her research interests in HPC, GPU programming, and scientific computing. Her transition from academia to research has been marked by a clear focus on applying theory to practical, high-impact computational problems.

💼 Professional Experience:

Dr. Agrawal has been with C-DAC Pune since May 2005, rising through the ranks to her current role as Scientist E. Over the years, she has led and contributed to critical national-level HPC projects, focusing on the GPU acceleration of computational simulations like DFT, Molecular Dynamics (MD), ANUGA, and WRF. She actively mentors participants at NVIDIA/OpenACC Hackathons, fostering GPU adoption across disciplines. Her projects typically involve complex parallel and distributed programming tasks, using CUDA, OpenACC, OpenMP, and MPI. She also plays a strategic role in tuning applications for GPU+CPU clusters, especially on Ampere GPU architecture. Her professional growth has been characterized by her ability to bridge cutting-edge theory with real-world computational applications in science and engineering domains.

🏆 Awards & Honors:

Dr. Nisha Agrawal’s research and mentoring excellence have been acknowledged through numerous accolades. She won the Best Paper Award at IEEE TEMSMET 2021, recognizing her pioneering work in GPU-based parallel computing. As a NVIDIA/OpenACC Certified HPC Mentor (2023), she contributes significantly to India’s HPC knowledge ecosystem. In 2017, she received the ACM Scholarship to attend the prestigious Grace Hopper Celebration India (GHCI), a testament to her commitment to women in technology. Earlier, she was conferred the GARGI Puraskar by the Government of Rajasthan in 1999 for academic excellence. Her qualifying performance in GATE 2005 (AIR 695) further highlighted her strong academic and analytical foundation. These honors collectively reflect a career marked by consistency, innovation, and community impact in the field of high-performance and scientific computing.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Agrawal’s research revolves around the acceleration and optimization of scientific applications using GPU-centric architectures. Her core domains include molecular dynamics, weather forecasting, and flood modeling, where she leverages tools such as CUDA, OpenACC, OpenCL, and MPI to port and tune code for parallel execution on HPC clusters. A key area of her focus lies in the performance analysis of simulation software across different hardware platforms like NVIDIA GPUs and Intel Xeon processors. Through her work on multi-GPU scaling, memory bandwidth analysis, and hardware counters, she has contributed to making scientific simulations more efficient and scalable. Her interdisciplinary collaborations enable domain scientists to harness the power of heterogeneous computing architectures for complex simulations. As an educator and mentor, she also drives HPC awareness, especially in academic and R&D circles, reinforcing her dual mission of innovation and education.

📚 Publication Top Notes:

  1. 🧪 Experience with Adapting to a Software Framework for a Use-Case in Computational Science – Journal of Parallel and Distributed Computing, May 2025

  2. 🚀 GPU Implementation and Performance Evaluation of AMDKIIT for DFT – SupercomputingAsia (SCA), Mar 2025

  3. 📊 Hardware Counter Based Performance Analysis of ANUGA – IC3 (ACM), Sep 2023

  4. 🌩 Scalability Analysis of WRF on NVIDIA Ampere – IC3SIS, Dec 2022

  5. 🔬 NAMD Simulation on Dense GPU Supercomputer – ICTCS (Springer), Oct 2022

  6. 🖥 Highly Portable C++ Simulator with Dual Parallelism – IEEE, Aug 2022

  7. 🏆 Single Instruction Stream for Massively Parallel Ops – Best Paper, IEEE TEMSMET, May 2022

  8. 💡 Multi-GPU MD Simulation on Ampere Infrastructure – Springer LNNS, Aug 2021

  9. 📈 Performance Analysis of ANUGA on Modern Architectures – IC3 (ACM), Aug 2021

  10. ⚙️ Memory Bandwidth Analysis: Xeon Phi vs Xeon – Women in HPC at ISC, Jun 2017

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Nisha Agrawal is an exceptionally qualified and highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her robust combination of long-term experience, technical depth in GPU-based parallel computing, impactful publications, active mentoring, and commitment to HPC education position her as a leader in the field. While expanding global collaborations and venturing into AI-HPC convergence could further enhance her profile, her existing contributions already make a strong and compelling case for recognition.

Moara Lemos | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Moara Lemos | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Moara Lemos, UFRJ/CENABIO, Brazil

Dr. Moara Lemos is a Brazilian parasitologist and structural biologist known for her expertise in protozoology, especially focusing on trypanosomatids. Born in Carmo do Rio Claro, Brazil, she earned her PhD in Microbiology from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ). Her work bridges advanced imaging technologies, such as cryo-electron tomography, with molecular parasitology, exploring host-parasite interactions in fish and amphibians. Currently based at Institut Pasteur and UFRJ, she leads cutting-edge projects in cellular ultrastructure, nanobiotechnology, and the molecular characterization of parasites. She has received multiple research scholarships and international recognition through high-impact publications and awards. A highly collaborative scientist, Dr. Lemos has contributed significantly to parasitology, cryo-microscopy, and biomedicine, making her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Expertise in Parasitology and Cell Biology

    • Specialized in protozoology, with deep research in Trypanosoma species affecting both aquatic vertebrates and humans.

    • Combines taxonomy, ultrastructure, phylogeny, and host-parasite interactions, contributing significantly to neglected areas in parasitology.

  2. Cutting-edge Methodological Proficiency

    • Strong command over electron microscopy, including cryo-electron tomography, FIB-SEM, and correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM).

    • Her techniques are pivotal in advancing the 3D visualization of cellular and viral structures, which is particularly impactful in infectious disease research.

  3. Translational Research Impact

    • Active participation in COVID-19-related structural virology, aiming to guide vaccine and therapeutic development.

    • Current projects focus on flagellar biogenesis, nanobiomaterials, and telepathology, integrating basic science with clinical relevance.

  4. Collaborative and International Research Network

    • Collaboration with prestigious institutions such as the Institut Pasteur, João Lobo Antunes Institute, EMBO, and CBPF.

    • Involved in multidisciplinary teams with researchers like Dorit Hanein and Philippe Bastin, increasing the credibility and reach of her research.

  5. Recognized Scientific Output

    • Publications in high-impact journals like Nature Communications, Journal of Cell Biology, *

🛠️ Areas for Improvement:

While her qualifications are substantial, a few areas could further elevate her candidacy:

  1. Greater Independent Leadership on High-Profile Projects

    • While she is a co-author on several collaborative works, leading more first-author or corresponding-author publications in top-tier journals would further establish her scientific independence.

  2. Increased Outreach or Policy Engagement

    • Expanding her influence beyond academic research—e.g., contributing to national or international policy on parasitic diseases, public health, or biodiversity conservation—could broaden impact.

  3. Clearer Documentation of Teaching/Mentorship Impact

    • While the CV lists student supervision (MSc, PhD), a dedicated summary on mentorship outcomes (e.g., students’ careers, theses supervised) would strengthen the case.

  4. Visibility in International Conferences as Speaker

    • More keynote/plenary presentations or chairing roles at major international meetings would reinforce her leadership in the field.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Lemos holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the Federal University of Juiz de Fora (UFJF), where she also completed a Master’s degree in Zoology. She earned her PhD in Science (Microbiology) from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), with a dissertation on the taxonomy and host-parasite interactions of trypanosomes in Brazilian fish. Her postgraduate journey continued with multiple postdoctoral fellowships at institutions like the Institut Pasteur (France), CBPF (Brazil), and UFRJ, specializing in parasitology, biotechnology, and cryo-electron microscopy. She also pursued extensive complementary training in microscopy, cryo-ET, and molecular biology through EMBO and SBMM courses. Her education reflects a strong interdisciplinary foundation combining zoology, microbiology, biotechnology, and imaging technologies—crucial for investigating infectious diseases at a cellular and molecular level.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Lemos holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the Federal University of Juiz de Fora (UFJF), where she also completed a Master’s degree in Zoology. She earned her PhD in Science (Microbiology) from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), with a dissertation on the taxonomy and host-parasite interactions of trypanosomes in Brazilian fish. Her postgraduate journey continued with multiple postdoctoral fellowships at institutions like the Institut Pasteur (France), CBPF (Brazil), and UFRJ, specializing in parasitology, biotechnology, and cryo-electron microscopy. She also pursued extensive complementary training in microscopy, cryo-ET, and molecular biology through EMBO and SBMM courses. Her education reflects a strong interdisciplinary foundation combining zoology, microbiology, biotechnology, and imaging technologies—crucial for investigating infectious diseases at a cellular and molecular level.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Moara Lemos has received numerous accolades throughout her career. She won the Best Poster Presentation at the Institut Pasteur and the VIII International Symposium of Fish Parasites, along with the Best Oral Presentation Award at Sembio 2007. She was also recognized at the IV Annual Meeting of the National Institute of Science and Technology in Structural Biology and Bioimaging (INBEB). She has been a scholarship holder from multiple funding bodies, including CNPq, CAPES, FAPERJ, and FAPEMIG, for her postgraduate and postdoctoral research. In addition, she contributed to groundbreaking studies published in Nature Communications, Journal of Cell Biology, and American Journal of Human Genetics, earning visibility in high-impact journals. These honors highlight her impactful contributions to biomedical research, particularly in parasitology and cryo-structural biology.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Lemos focuses on parasitic protozoa, especially trypanosomes, examining their ultrastructure, taxonomy, host-parasite dynamics, and intraflagellar transport mechanisms. She employs advanced imaging technologies, including cryo-electron tomography, to study the 3D cellular architecture of infectious organisms like Trypanosoma cruzi. Her research expands to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, developing cryo-microscopy workflows to analyze virus-antibody interactions. She also explores nanobiomaterials’ interactions with eukaryotic cells, combining cell biology, structural biology, and electron microscopy. Current projects include implementing telemicroscopy in Brazil’s public health system (SUS) and developing AI tools for pathology imaging. Her goal is not only to advance scientific knowledge but also to translate findings into public health and ecological conservation strategies. Dr. Lemos’ integrative and technological approach to biology makes her research highly innovative and socially relevant.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 📘 Advances, challenges, and applications of cryo‐electron tomography workflows for three‐dimensional cellular imaging of infectious pathogens – Journal of Microscopy (2025)

  2. 🧪 Novel ACE2 nanoparticles universally block SARS-CoV-2 variants in the human respiratory tract – bioRxiv (2022)

  3. 🔬 Morphological control enables nanometer-scale dissection of cell-cell signaling complexes – Nature Communications (2022)

  4. 🧬 Timing and original features of flagellum assembly in trypanosomes during development in the tsetse fly – Parasites & Vectors (2020)

  5. 🐸 Caracterização morfológica e morfométrica dos tripanossomas de anuros do Centro-Oeste brasileiro – Revista Brasileira de Zoociências (2019)

  6. 🧫 Biallelic Mutations in LRRC56…Cause Mucociliary Clearance and Laterality Defects – American Journal of Human Genetics (2018)

  7. 🧭 Bidirectional intraflagellar transport is restricted to two sets of microtubule doublets in the trypanosome flagellum – Journal of Cell Biology (2018)

  8. 📗 Contribuição ao estudo da biologia dos Tripanossomas de Anuros neotropicais – Thesis, UFJF (2017)

🏁 Conclusion: 

Dr. Moara Lemos demonstrates a rare combination of technical excellence, innovative research, international collaboration, and consistent productivity in fields that have both scientific importance and global health relevance. Her research in trypanosome biology, electron microscopy, and pathogen-cell interaction is critical for both basic science and applied biomedical research.

Noura Hussein Abdel Hamid | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Noura Hussein Abdel Hamid | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Noura Hussein Abdel Hamid , Zagazig University , Egypt

Dr. Noura Hussein Abedel Hamid Mekawy is a dedicated Egyptian medical academic with extensive expertise in Histology and Cell Biology. Born on April 18, 1981, she graduated with an M.B.B.Ch. from Zagazig University in 2006, followed by a Master’s (2012) and an M.D. (2017) in Histology and Cell Biology from the same institution. Currently, she serves as a Lecturer at Zagazig University’s Faculty of Medicine. Her academic journey is complemented by her passion for medical education, microscopy, and molecular research. Dr. Mekawy has contributed to the field with multiple publications in reputable scientific journals, focusing on histopathological and immunohistochemical studies. She is a member of the Egyptian Society of Histology and Cytology and has completed professional training in self-evaluation and quality assurance in higher education. Her commitment to scientific advancement and education has established her as a respected figure in medical academia.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Background
    Dr. Mekawy has authored and co-authored 10 peer-reviewed publications, focusing on histopathology, immunohistochemistry, toxicology, and therapeutic interventions in experimental models.

  2. Specialization in a Vital Medical Field
    Her focus on Histology and Cell Biology is crucial for understanding disease mechanisms and developing new treatment strategies.

  3. Academic Progression & Teaching Role
    She has shown consistent career advancement from Demonstrator to Lecturer, demonstrating leadership and commitment in academia.

  4. Diverse Research Themes
    Her work explores the toxicological impacts of nanoparticles, pharmaceuticals, and environmental exposures, as well as the protective effects of antioxidants and stem cells—offering a well-rounded scientific profile.

  5. Professional Engagement
    Active member of Egyptian Society of Histology and Cytology and Medical Professions Syndicate, and involved in scientific conferences and training workshops.

  6. Methodological Strength
    Her skills in light/electron microscopy and immunohistochemical techniques indicate deep technical expertise.

⚙️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Expand to International Collaborations
    Engaging in collaborative research with international institutions can increase visibility and impact.

  2. Publication in Higher Impact Journals
    While she has multiple publications, targeting high-impact Q1 journals can elevate the academic value of her research.

  3. Grant Funding & Project Leadership
    Applying for external research grants and leading funded projects would further enhance her research profile.

  4. Clinical Translation
    Bridging her findings from animal studies to clinical or translational research can broaden applicability.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Noura Mekawy earned her M.B.B.Ch. degree in Medicine and General Surgery from Zagazig University in October 2006, graduating with an excellent grade. Her strong academic foundation led her to pursue postgraduate studies in Histology and Cell Biology. In May 2012, she was awarded a Master’s degree with a thesis titled “The Effect of Maternal Exposure to Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate on The Lung of Albino Rat Offspring (Histological and Immunohistochemical Study).” She continued her academic progression by earning her M.D. in Basic Medical Sciences (Histology and Cell Biology) in January 2017. Throughout her studies, Dr. Mekawy demonstrated outstanding academic performance and developed a deep interest in cellular biology and histopathology. Her educational background reflects her commitment to advancing medical science through both practical research and academic instruction.

🧪 Experience:

Dr. Noura Mekawy began her academic career as a Demonstrator in the Histology and Cell Biology Department at Zagazig University in August 2008. She served in this role until May 2012, when she was promoted to Assistant Lecturer. In January 2017, following the completion of her M.D., she assumed the position of Lecturer in the same department. With over 15 years of experience in teaching and laboratory work, Dr. Mekawy has become proficient in histological techniques, immunohistochemistry, and electron microscopy. She is also skilled in data analysis using SPSS and Microsoft Office tools. Her responsibilities include teaching, supervising research projects, and contributing to curriculum development. Additionally, she has participated in educational quality assurance workshops and continues to mentor students and junior faculty members. Her teaching experience, combined with hands-on laboratory expertise, makes her a well-rounded educator and researcher.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Mekawy’s research primarily focuses on histopathological and immunohistochemical changes in response to environmental, chemical, and pharmaceutical exposures in animal models. Her investigations are centered on understanding tissue damage and repair mechanisms in organs like the liver, lungs, testes, heart, submandibular glands, and the central nervous system. A consistent theme across her work is evaluating the protective or therapeutic roles of natural substances and pharmacological agents, including antioxidants like Vitamin E, Nigella sativa, and Zingerone, as well as advanced treatments such as salivary exosomes and stem cells. She integrates light microscopy, electron microscopy, and molecular biology techniques in her research. Dr. Mekawy is also engaged in evaluating the histological effects of nanoparticles and energy drinks on various tissues. Her contributions are valuable for toxicological assessment and potential therapeutic innovations, contributing to public health and medical safety.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧪 Effect of Silver Nanoparticles on Testes of Prepubertal Male Albino Rats and the Possible Protective Role of Vitamin E

  2. ⚠️ Hepatic Changes under the Effect of Red Bull Energy Drinks and its Withdrawal in Adult Male Albino Rats

  3. 💧 Therapeutic Role of Salivary Exosomes in Improving Histological and Biochemical Changes Induced by Duct Ligation in Submandibular Glands

  4. ❤️ The Possible Protective Effect of Zingiber Officinale on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Cardiotoxicity

  5. 👁️ Protective Effect of Chrysin on Corneal Structural Alterations Induced by Sofosbuvir

  6. 🧬 Nicorandil and Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Ureteric Obstruction Recovery

  7. 🧠 Effect of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles on Cerebellar Cortex of Adult Male Albino Rats

  8. 🥼 Protective Role of Ghrelin versus its Combination with Zingerone on Gastric Ischemic-Reperfusion

  9. 🔊 Effect of Low Frequency Noise on Heart and Lung & Role of Vitamin C

  10. 💪 Nandrolone Effect on Cardiac Muscle and Role of Nigella Sativa

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Noura Mekawy exhibits the hallmarks of a dedicated, capable, and innovative researcher in medical science. With over a decade of academic and research experience, she has made valuable contributions to experimental histology and cell biology. Her work is methodologically sound, thematically diverse, and medically relevant. The strength of her research, consistent publication record, and academic integrity make her a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Continued growth in publication quality, global collaboration, and translational research will further enhance her already impressive academic journey.

Yasmin M. Abd El-Aziz | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Assist. Prof. Dr. Yasmin M. Abd El-Aziz | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Yasmin M. Abd El-Aziz , Ministry of Higher Education, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt., Egypt

Dr. Yasmin Mohamed Abd El-Aziz El-Sayed is a dedicated Egyptian researcher and academic specializing in Zoology, with deep expertise in cytology, histology, and genetics. Born on March 17, 1991, in Port Said, Egypt, she has built a robust scientific career rooted in excellence and innovation. Currently a faculty member at Port Said University, Dr. El-Sayed has contributed significantly to environmental toxicology, tissue pathology, and natural compound therapeutics. Her scholarly journey reflects a commitment to understanding biological systems and mitigating the impact of environmental pollutants on health. She has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, actively participated in educational platforms, and has held leadership roles in academic committees. Recognized by international and national journals, she exemplifies scientific rigor and a passion for education and research. Her work continues to impact both academic circles and public health strategies.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Robust Publication Record 📚
    Dr. Yasmin has authored and co-authored over 20 peer-reviewed research papers across high-impact journals. Her research spans toxicology, histology, pharmacology, and aquaculture, with a strong presence in interdisciplinary studies.

  2. Innovative Research Focus 🔬
    She investigates the protective effects of natural compounds (e.g., curcumin, propolis, tamarind, pomegranate peel) on toxin-induced organ damage—critical for environmental health and therapeutic sciences.

  3. Contribution to Aquatic Health Science 🐟
    Her work on fish and shrimp nutrition, immunity, and resistance to pathogens significantly contributes to sustainable aquaculture, a pressing global need.

  4. Academic Leadership and Teaching 👩‍🏫
    With over a decade of university teaching experience and roles as a platform coordinator, trainer, and national committee member, she plays a pivotal role in shaping future scientists.

  5. Global Collaboration & Recognition 🌍
    She is associated with journals across the USA, India, and Egypt and actively collaborates internationally, as evidenced by co-authorships with global researchers.

⚙️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. More International Exposure
    While her publication record is commendable, more presentations at international conferences could increase her visibility and influence in global academic circles.

  2. Grant Acquisition and Independent Projects
    Securing research funding or leading international-funded projects would further demonstrate her capabilities as an independent principal investigator (PI).

  3. Translational Research and Patents
    Exploring patentable innovations or clinical applications of her findings (especially plant-based remedies) would enhance the real-world impact of her work.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Yasmin El-Sayed earned her B.Sc. in Biotechnology from the Faculty of Science at Port Said University in 2012, graduating first in her class with honors. Her undergraduate education was marked by extensive coursework in zoology, histology, genetics, microbiology, physiology, and toxicology. This strong foundation laid the groundwork for her future research in cellular biology and environmental toxicology. She further specialized in cytology, histology, and genetic engineering, with a keen interest in microtechnique, haematology, and advanced histological studies. Her academic training focused on both theoretical and practical aspects of tissue biology, pathology, and molecular genetics. These studies were pivotal in preparing her to conduct complex investigations into the effects of environmental toxins and therapeutic agents on animal models. With a strong grasp of molecular tools and histological techniques, Dr. El-Sayed continues to build on her academic expertise through cutting-edge research and academic collaborations.

🧑‍🏫 Experience:

Dr. Yasmin began her academic career as a Demonstrator in the Department of Zoology at Port Said University in 2012. Over the years, she progressed to the role of Assistant Lecturer in 2015, where she played a vital role in educating and mentoring undergraduate students. She has taught various courses including General Zoology, Histology and Histochemistry, Anatomy, and Microscopic Techniques. Her involvement extends beyond teaching, serving as a certified trainer for national initiatives like the Mawada Project and a coordinator for e-learning platforms such as Thinqi. She also plays a leading role in population development strategies at the faculty level. Her administrative and instructional contributions demonstrate her holistic approach to academic development. Dr. Yasmin combines research, teaching, and community service to foster a dynamic learning environment, enhancing both student experience and institutional growth.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Yasmin El-Sayed’s research is primarily focused on toxicology, histopathology, cytogenetics, and therapeutic interventions using natural products. She investigates the biochemical and histological impacts of environmental toxins, including aluminum silicate, cadmium chloride, and iron oxide nanoparticles, on various organs in animal models. A significant component of her work involves evaluating the protective and antioxidant properties of natural extracts like propolis, pomegranate peel, Tegillarca granosa, and tamarind seeds. She is also engaged in aquatic animal health, exploring dietary interventions such as nano-curcumin, nano-selenium, and probiotics to improve the growth performance, immunity, and disease resistance in tilapia and shrimp. Her multi-disciplinary approach bridges molecular biology, histochemistry, and animal physiology, positioning her as a key contributor in both veterinary and biomedical research. Through her studies, she aims to develop natural, cost-effective treatments for toxin-induced damages, contributing to sustainable health and aquaculture solutions.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧠🧪 Protective effects of curcumin on cadmium chloride-induced bone/kidney toxicity in rats.

  2. 🧬🐀 Propolis protects against aluminum silicate toxicity in rats.

  3. 🧠🧬 Histopathological study: Egyptian propolis vs. aluminum silicate in rat cerebellum.

  4. 🧪📉 Prophylactic effect of propolis on multiple organs against aluminum silicate.

  5. 🧬🧫 Propolis defends liver from aluminum silicate: Biochemical and histological analysis.

  6. 🫁🛡 Propolis extract defends lung tissue against aluminum silicate: Antioxidant effects.

  7. 🐚🧬 Tegillarca granosa extract counters potassium bromide toxicity in rat liver and genes.

  8. 🧬🧫 Toxicity by sodium bicarbonate: Treatment using Cyperus esculentus tuber extract.

  9. 🤰🧬 Ehrlich carcinoma in pregnant mice: Tamarind extract shows protective effects.

  10. 🍎🧫 Pomegranate peel extract combats hepatotoxicity from iron oxide nanoparticles.

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Yasmin Mohamed Abd El-Aziz El-Sayed is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. Her diverse and impactful research, exceptional academic contributions, and dedication to scientific advancement make her a leading candidate. With continued growth in global engagement and translational outputs, she is poised to become an even more influential figure in the field of environmental toxicology and biomedical research.