Noureddine Allouche | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Research Article Award

Prof. Noureddine Allouche | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Research Article Award

Prof. Noureddine Allouche , Faculty of Sciences of Sfax, University of Sfax , Tunisia

Professor Noureddine Allouche, born in 1971, is a Full Professor of Chemistry at the Faculty of Sciences of Sfax (FSS), Tunisia. He is the Head of the Natural Substances Team in the Laboratory of Organic Chemistry. With over 150 peer-reviewed publications, an h-index of 35, and more than 4500 citations, he is recognized for his impactful research on natural products and environmental valorization. He has led and contributed to multiple national and European research projects, including FP7, H2020, Erasmus+, and ARIMNET. His work focuses on extraction, isolation, and bioactivity of plant-based compounds and sustainable management of industrial waste. Prof. Allouche has supervised 20 Ph.D. theses and 42 M.Sc. students, contributing significantly to scientific advancement in Tunisia and beyond. He is also involved in applied research in green chemistry and cosmetic sciences. His collaborative work and leadership have earned him recognition in the academic and research communities.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. High Research Productivity and Impact

    • Over 150 peer-reviewed scientific articles with a h-index of 35 and 4,500+ citations, which reflect sustained academic influence and quality.

    • Contributor to top-tier journals such as Plants, Biomolecules, and Molecules.

  2. Strong Focus on Societal Relevance

    • Work addresses critical environmental issues such as olive mill waste valorisation, bioconversion, and sustainable resource use.

    • Research applied in green chemistry, natural product-based pharmaceuticals, and eco-cosmetics.

  3. International Collaboration and Leadership

    • Coordinator of six major European and international research projects (FP7, H2020, Erasmus+, ARIMNET).

    • Active partnerships with institutions in France, Germany, and the Mediterranean region, showcasing leadership in multidisciplinary and multinational research.

  4. Methodological Rigor and Innovation

    • Use of advanced analytical techniques (e.g., HPLC-HESI-MS/MS, LC-MS/MS, ESI-MS/MS).

    • Integration of green technologies for natural substance extraction.

  5. Mentorship and Academic Development

    • Supervised 20 Ph.D. theses (plus 4 ongoing), 42 Master’s theses, and numerous diploma projects, especially in applied fields like cosmetic science.

🛠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader International Recognition

    • While highly active in regional and EU collaborations, increased visibility in global North America/Asia-led consortia or global forums could enhance recognition.

  2. Science Communication and Outreach

    • Publishing in public engagement platforms or delivering talks/webinars to non-specialist audiences could expand the impact of his research beyond academia.

  3. Open Access and Data Sharing

    • Encouraging open data practices and reproducibility of extraction and formulation protocols could enhance scientific transparency and citations.

🎓 Education:

Professor Noureddine Allouche earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Sfax between 2000 and 2005, focusing on the treatment and valorisation of olive mill waste, a subject that would lay the foundation for his future research career. Following this, he undertook a prestigious postdoctoral training (2006–2007) at the Institute of Natural Products Chemistry of CNRS in Gif-sur-Yvette, France, enhancing his expertise in natural substances and analytical chemistry. His academic foundation was built on rigorous training in organic chemistry, natural products, and environmental biotechnology. These experiences equipped him with robust research methodologies and an interdisciplinary approach, especially in the extraction and biological evaluation of phytochemicals. His educational path reflects a strong commitment to green and sustainable chemistry, positioning him well for leading high-impact research on natural product development and eco-friendly industrial applications.

💼 Experience:

Professor Allouche has over 20 years of academic and research experience. He currently leads the Natural Substances Team at the Faculty of Sciences of Sfax and supervises a group of over 20 researchers. He has played a vital role in international research collaborations, serving as the national coordinator of six European-funded projects under FP7, ARIMNET, H2020, Erasmus+, and PHC-Maghreb. His experience also includes participation in the INCO-MED project on detoxification and recovery from olive mill wastewater. Prof. Allouche has an extensive mentoring portfolio, having supervised 20 Ph.D. theses (with 4 ongoing) and 42 M.Sc. students. He has authored 150+ articles, two book chapters, and holds two patents. His career reflects a blend of scientific innovation and applied industrial research, particularly in green technologies, bioactive compounds, and waste valorisation. He is also a regular collaborator with European institutions, reflecting his global outlook and leadership in sustainable science.

🔍 Research Focus:

Prof. Noureddine Allouche’s research centers on natural substances chemistry, green extraction methods, and biotechnological valorisation of industrial wastes, particularly from agro-food sources. He has made significant contributions to the identification and biological evaluation of bioactive compounds such as phenolics, flavonoids, and essential oils. His team is particularly active in analyzing plant extracts for their antioxidant, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and anti-aging activities, often employing advanced techniques like HPLC, LC-MS/MS, and ESI-MS/MS. Another pillar of his work includes developing biopesticides and bio-cosmetics through green and eco-sustainable approaches. He contributes to nanoformulation research and the design of nature-based products aligned with circular economy principles. His interdisciplinary projects bridge chemistry, pharmacology, environmental science, and cosmetic formulation, making his research highly relevant for addressing current scientific and industrial challenges. His recent involvement in projects like GreenCosmIn and 25MAG23 reflects his leading role in European research on sustainable innovation.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🌿 HPLC-HESI-MS/MS Analysis of Phenolic Compounds from Cynoglossum tubiflorus Leaf Extracts (Plants, 2024)

  2. 🫒 Intensification of Biophenols Extraction Yield from Olive Pomace Using Innovative Green Technologies (Biomolecules, 2022)

  3. 🌸 Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Erodium arborescens Extracts Characterized by LC-HESI-MS² (Molecules, 2022)

  4. 🌿 ESI-MS/MS Analysis of Aeonium arboreum Leaf Extracts and Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities (Molecules, 2021)

  5. 🍇 Novel Natural Products for Healthy Ageing from Mediterranean Diet – The MediHealth Project (Molecules, 2018)

🧾 Conclusion:

Professor Noureddine Allouche stands out as a highly qualified and deserving candidate for the Best Research Article Award. His impressive record in sustainable chemistry, natural products research, international project coordination, and scholarly mentorship underlines his academic excellence and real-world impact. His research directly contributes to health, environmental sustainability, and circular economy principles, aligning well with the goals of high-impact, solution-driven science.

RAJU KUMAR SHARMA | Cell Adhesion Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

Dr. RAJU KUMAR SHARMA | Cell Adhesion Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

Dr. RAJU KUMAR SHARMA , National Chung Cheng University , Taiwan

Dr. Raju Kumar Sharma is an Assistant Research Fellow at National Chung Cheng University, Taiwan, specializing in Chemistry and Biochemistry. Born on January 27, 1993, in India, he holds a Ph.D. from National Chung Cheng University, Taiwan (2019-2023), and an M.Sc. in Analytical Chemistry from National Institute of Technology, Warangal, India. With a strong academic foundation, Dr. Sharma’s research focuses on environmental nanotechnology, water purification, and the development of sustainable materials. His multidisciplinary research has led to over 20 publications in high-impact journals. Dr. Sharma is also actively engaged in several international research collaborations across Taiwan, India, the USA, Japan, and more. He contributes significantly to both academic advancements and practical solutions to environmental challenges. In addition to his research, he serves as a reviewer for reputed journals, showcasing his expertise and commitment to the scientific community.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Contributions: Dr. Sharma has made substantial contributions to the field of Chemistry and Biochemistry, with several high-impact publications in prestigious journals such as Separation and Purification Technology, Marine Pollution Bulletin, and Environmental Technology & Innovation. His papers consistently address crucial issues such as water purification, nanotechnology, and bioremediation, reflecting an innovative approach to solving pressing environmental challenges.

  2. Diverse and Collaborative Research: He has demonstrated remarkable versatility in his research, exploring a wide range of topics, including the development of biosynthetic nanoparticles, heavy metal remediation, and environmental health. His research is not only theoretical but also highly practical, contributing to the design of sustainable solutions for environmental protection. Additionally, he has collaborated with top-tier institutions worldwide, such as National Chung Cheng University, University of California Berkeley, University of Malaya, and more. These collaborations underline his global network and recognition in his field.

  3. Innovation and Application: Dr. Sharma’s work on biologically synthesized mesoporous silica nanoparticles (BMSN) and microbial-induced synthesis of nanoparticles exhibits cutting-edge innovation. His focus on eco-friendly, cost-effective, and sustainable materials for water treatment and the development of nanomaterials with diverse applications shows his potential to drive significant impact in both environmental and industrial sectors.

  4. Recognition and High Citation Count: His work has been widely recognized with numerous citations, indicating a broad impact on the academic community. For example, his publications in high-impact journals (Q1) and recent patents demonstrate that his research is not only academically rigorous but also highly relevant to industry applications.

  5. Leadership in Research: As an Assistant Research Fellow at National Chung Cheng University, he holds a leadership role in advancing scientific research. His participation as a reviewer for esteemed journals like Earth Systems and Environment and Chemosphere further illustrates his influence and expertise.

  6. Multilingual Skills: His proficiency in English and Hindi allows him to communicate effectively in a global research environment, enhancing his ability to collaborate internationally.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Outreach of Research: While Dr. Sharma has contributed significantly to various academic journals, there may be room for increasing public engagement and outreach related to his research. This could involve publishing in open-access platforms or conducting outreach activities to share his work with non-academic audiences, enhancing the social impact of his research.

  2. Further Strengthening Research Impact: While his publications are well-cited, there is potential to extend his research to address larger interdisciplinary themes, particularly in policy and regulatory arenas. Participating in or leading policy discussions and innovations could enhance the real-world impact of his work.

  3. Increased Focus on Interdisciplinary Integration: Dr. Sharma’s research could benefit from deeper integration with interdisciplinary fields such as environmental engineering, material science, or urban development. This might open more opportunities for innovative solutions in various sectors and increase cross-sectoral impact.

Education:

Dr. Raju Kumar Sharma earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry and Biochemistry from National Chung Cheng University, Taiwan (2019-2023), where he developed expertise in nanotechnology, environmental chemistry, and biochemistry. His doctoral work focused on the biosynthesis of mesoporous silica nanoparticles and their environmental applications, particularly in water treatment. Before that, Dr. Sharma completed his M.Sc. in Analytical Chemistry from the National Institute of Technology, Warangal, India (2015-2017), where he studied the analytical techniques used in environmental chemistry and materials science. He obtained his B.Sc. (Hons.) in Chemistry from the University of Delhi, India (2012-2015). His academic background in both chemistry and biochemistry has laid a strong foundation for his multidisciplinary research endeavors, allowing him to make substantial contributions to environmental sustainability and nanomaterials.

Experience:

Dr. Raju Kumar Sharma is currently an Assistant Research Fellow at National Chung Cheng University, Taiwan, where he conducts groundbreaking research in nanomaterials, water purification, and environmental chemistry. His research experience spans the biosynthesis of nanoparticles and their application in heavy metal removal, water defluoridation, and drug removal. Prior to his Ph.D., Dr. Sharma worked as a research assistant in various projects at the National Institute of Technology, Warangal, India, and collaborated on several international projects related to nanotechnology and environmental sustainability. His research collaborations span across renowned institutions such as National Taiwan University, University of California Berkeley, University of Southern Queensland, and University of Malaya, among others. Dr. Sharma has published over 20 papers in peer-reviewed journals, contributing significantly to scientific advancements in the areas of chemistry, nanomaterials, and environmental science.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Raju Kumar Sharma has received several accolades and recognition for his excellence in research. His outstanding contributions to the field of chemistry and biochemistry, especially in environmental nanotechnology, have earned him significant honors. As an early career researcher, he has been involved in high-impact research projects across multiple countries and institutions. His work on biosynthesis of mesoporous silica nanoparticles, water purification technologies, and environmental remediation has been widely recognized in academic circles. Dr. Sharma is frequently invited to present his work at international conferences and symposia. He has also served as a reviewer for high-ranking journals such as Earth Systems and Environment and Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety. His collaborations with institutions like National Chung Cheng University, University of California, and University of Southern Queensland have further established his reputation as an emerging leader in his field.

Research Focus:

Dr. Raju Kumar Sharma’s research primarily focuses on the intersection of nanotechnology and environmental science, specifically in the areas of water purification and environmental remediation. He is actively engaged in the synthesis and functionalization of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (BMSNs) for applications in heavy metal removal, drug removal from wastewater, and defluoridation of contaminated water. His work on the microbial synthesis of nanoparticles and their application in sustainable environmental practices has positioned him at the forefront of eco-friendly nanomaterial design. Dr. Sharma’s research also explores the use of natural and agricultural waste-based adsorbents for water treatment, focusing on cost-effective and sustainable solutions for pollution control. His investigations into bio-surfactants, biopolymers, and microbial-mediated processes are integral to the development of next-generation materials that can be utilized for environmental sustainability. Dr. Sharma’s contributions to environmental nanotechnology are highly impactful and hold promise for addressing global water contamination issues.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Optimization and surface functionalization of biologically synthesized mesoporous silica nanoparticles to remove ASA drug from water: Sorption and regeneration study 🌊💊📉
  2. Evaluation and mitigation of potentially toxic elements contamination in mangrove ecosystem: Insights into phytoremediation and microbial perspective 🌱🦠🌊
  3. Cost-effective microbial induced ZnO synthesis for building material: Antibacterial, photocatalytic, and mechanical characteristics 🏗️🦠💡
  4. Taiwan’s mysterious mollusks: a deep dive into the cryptic hybridization of Pomacea canaliculata and Pomacea maculata 🐌🔬🌍
  5. Transformative and sustainable insights of agricultural waste-based adsorbents for water defluoridation: Biosorption dynamics, economic viability, and spent adsorbent management 🌾💧💸
  6. Advanced application of nano-technological and biological processes as well as mitigation options for arsenic removal 🧪🧫💧
  7. Microbial induced carbonate precipitation for remediation of heavy metals, ions, and radioactive elements: A comprehensive exploration 🦠🌍🛑
  8. A novel BMSN (biologically synthesized mesoporous silica nanoparticles) material: Synthesis using a bacteria-mediated biosurfactant and characterization 🦠⚗️🧪
  9. New aspects of lipopeptide-incorporated nanoparticle synthesis and recent advancements in biomedical and environmental sciences: A review 🧫🔬💡
  10. The role of bacterial exopolysaccharides (EPS) in the synthesis of antimicrobial silver nanomaterials: A state-of-the-art review 🦠💎🔬

Conclusion:

Dr. Raju Kumar Sharma is undoubtedly a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions to environmental chemistry, biochemistry, and nanotechnology are groundbreaking. His research not only addresses environmental challenges but also provides practical solutions for water remediation and pollution control. His international collaborations, high citation count, and innovative approach to sustainable solutions position him as a thought leader in his field. By focusing on increasing the broader impact of his work, he can further solidify his standing as an academic and practical expert in environmental sciences.