Sevgi Kolayli | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Sevgi Kolayli | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Sevgi Kolayli | Karadeniz Technical University | Turkey

Prof. Dr. Sevgi Kolaylı is a distinguished biochemist and food scientist at Karadeniz Technical University, Turkey. With a career spanning over 25 years, she has made pioneering contributions in the fields of antioxidant activity, natural product chemistry, and food biochemistry, especially with respect to bee products such as honey, propolis, and bee bread. Her research explores the biochemical properties and therapeutic potentials of these natural substances, integrating analytical chemistry with toxicology and nutrition. She has authored numerous articles in international journals, demonstrating her scientific leadership and collaborative spirit. Dr. Kolaylı’s work not only furthers academic understanding but also provides practical insights into functional foods, public health, and sustainable agriculture. Recognized for her scientific excellence and innovation, she continues to mentor students and researchers, contributing significantly to science at national and global levels.

Publication Profiles: 

Orcid
Google Scholar
Scopus

Education:

Prof. Dr. Sevgi Kolaylı completed her undergraduate studies in Chemistry at Karadeniz Technical University, Turkey. She pursued postgraduate studies in Biochemistry, earning her Master’s and Ph.D. from the same institution. Her doctoral research focused on the biochemical analysis of natural products and their antioxidant capacities, with a special emphasis on enzymatic activities in fish and bioactive compounds in plant sources. Over the years, she has expanded her academic portfolio by attending international workshops, symposia, and scientific training, continually refining her skills in analytical methods such as chromatography, spectroscopy, and molecular characterization. Her solid educational foundation has enabled her to bridge the gap between traditional biochemical research and applied nutritional science. She remains actively engaged in academic development through her roles in teaching, supervision, and curriculum innovation at Karadeniz Technical University.

Experience:

Prof. Dr. Sevgi Kolaylı has served in various academic and research capacities at Karadeniz Technical University. Starting as a research assistant, she has risen through the academic ranks to become a full professor. Her career includes teaching undergraduate and postgraduate courses in biochemistry, food chemistry, and analytical techniques, while also supervising numerous MSc and PhD theses. Dr. Kolaylı has been a principal investigator in several national and international research projects focused on the bioactivity and safety of food-based natural compounds. She is a respected reviewer for several peer-reviewed journals and has collaborated with researchers from Algeria, Germany, and across Türkiye. Her strong laboratory and analytical experience, combined with leadership in scientific projects, underscore her capacity for impactful research. Additionally, she contributes to scientific committees, journal editorial boards, and serves as an evaluator for research funding bodies.

Research Focus:

Prof. Dr. Sevgi Kolaylı’s research centers on the biochemical evaluation of natural products, particularly those derived from bee-related sources such as honey, propolis, and bee bread. Her investigations focus on antioxidant activity, phenolic content, and bioactive characterization, aiming to understand their therapeutic and nutritional value. She uses advanced analytical techniques (e.g., HPLC, HRMS, spectrophotometry) to identify bioactive compounds and assess their antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral, and anticancer potentials. A significant portion of her work has examined regional differences in natural products, correlating botanical origin with chemical composition. Her newer research explores food enrichment using natural antioxidants and toxicity assessments of honey containing grayanotoxins. This multidisciplinary approach integrates food science, toxicology, and molecular biology, contributing to the development of functional foods and nutraceuticals. Prof. Kolaylı’s scientific vision is geared towards advancing public health through safe, natural, and effective bioactive substances.

Publications Top Notes: 

  1.  Comparative study on antioxidant enzyme activities and lipid peroxidation in different fish species – Turkish J. Zoology

  2.  Antioxidant enzymes in freshwater vs. seawater adapted trout – J. Biochem. Mol. Toxicol.

  3.  Chemical & antioxidant properties of cherry laurel fruit – J. Agric. Food Chem.

  4.  Does caffeine bind to metal ions? – Food Chemistry

  5.  Stereoselective photochemistry of methoxy chalcones – Turkish J. Chemistry

  6.  Essential oils of Centaurea spp. and their antimicrobial activity – Phytochemistry

  7.  Photocyclization and microbial activity of chalconoid compounds – J. Photochem. Photobiol. A

  8.  Synthesis of heterocycles as antioxidant/anticancer agents – Archiv der Pharmazie

  9.  Synthesis and antioxidant activities of triazol-5-one derivatives – Indian J. Chemistry

  10.  New triazole derivatives and their antioxidant properties – Asian J. Chemistry

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Prof. Dr. Sevgi Kolaylı exemplifies the qualities of a well-rounded, impactful, and visionary researcher whose work has significantly advanced the understanding of bioactive compounds in food and natural products. Her sustained excellence in publishing, mentoring, and interdisciplinary collaboration makes her highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. Her ability to combine fundamental biochemical insights with real-world health applications, especially in the areas of antioxidant research and bee product functionality, showcases her as not just a researcher, but a contributor to global health and nutrition science. With minor enhancements in innovation dissemination and global visibility, she can further establish herself as a leading figure in the international scientific community. Based on the strength of her scientific record, impact, and innovation potential, she is a highly deserving nominee for the Best Researcher Award.

 

 

Khuthadzo Tshishonga | Microbial Genomics | Young Researcher Award

Mr. Khuthadzo Tshishonga | Microbial Genomics | Young Researcher Award

Mr. Khuthadzo Tshishonga | University of Johannesburg | South Africa

Khuthadzo Tshishonga is a dedicated PhD candidate in Biotechnology at the University of Johannesburg, with a strong passion for microbial genomics and plant biotechnology. He brings a multicultural linguistic background and a solid academic record to his scientific endeavors. Khuthadzo has demonstrated exceptional competence through peer-reviewed publications, ongoing doctoral research, and teaching contributions. As a senior technician, he is actively involved in molecular biology and biochemical laboratory work, mentorship of students, and practical coordination of WIL programs. His work emphasizes sustainable biotechnology through microbial applications, positioning him as a rising voice in South Africa’s scientific community. His leadership in brewing science competitions, along with consistent academic excellence, makes him an ideal candidate for the Research for Young Researcher Award. Khuthadzo blends research productivity, community development, and academic service into a career marked by focus, innovation, and dedication.

Publication Profiles: 

Orcid
Google Scholar
Scopus

Education:

Khuthadzo Tshishonga began his academic journey in biotechnology at the University of Johannesburg, where he has completed all his tertiary studies to date. He holds a Baccalaureus Technologiae (B-Tech) in Biotechnology, followed by a Master of Science (MSc) in Biotechnology, with a dissertation focusing on the genomic profiles of endophytic bacteria isolated from Pellaea calomelanos. His MSc research yielded high-impact publications in genomic sequencing. Currently, he is pursuing his PhD in Biotechnology, where his research continues to explore plant-microbe interactions and microbial genomics, contributing to both basic and applied biosciences. His academic foundation is enriched with practical experience in molecular techniques, bioinformatics, microbial ecology, and genome analysis. This comprehensive academic path has equipped him with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to address real-world challenges in biotechnology and microbial research.

Experience:

Khuthadzo Tshishonga has been serving as a Senior Technician in the Department of Biotechnology and Food Technology at the University of Johannesburg.  His role involves preparing and facilitating laboratory sessions in Biochemistry, Microbial Biochemistry, and Genetics for undergraduate students. He also supervises Work Integrated Learning (WIL) students, contributing to both theoretical understanding and hands-on research skills. In addition to his teaching and mentorship duties, Khuthadzo has played a significant role in research projects, particularly in microbial genomics and plant endophytes. He is part of the departmental brewing team and has contributed to winning accolades in national brewing competitions. His experience spans from laboratory coordination to scientific publication, all while pursuing his PhD research. This makes him a dynamic contributor to both academic learning and scientific discovery. His technical and interpersonal skills make him a valued asset in academia and research.

Awards and Honors:

Khuthadzo has consistently demonstrated excellence in both academic and leadership roles. He was recognized by the University of Johannesburg with the prestigious Orange Ribbon Award, part of the institution’s Employee Reward and Recognition Programme. His commitment to mentorship is evident in his supervision and training of Work Integrated Learning (WIL) students to the present. He also serves as the Brewing Team Leader in the Department of Biotechnology, where his team won third place in the best lager category at the Intervarsity Brewing Competition. These awards reflect his multidimensional involvement in teaching, mentoring, research, and innovation. His accolades speak to a balanced academic life, demonstrating leadership, creativity, technical skill, and commitment to excellence—qualities that make him an ideal nominee for the Research for Young Researcher Award.

Research Focus:

Khuthadzo Tshishonga’s research is centered on the genomic exploration of bacterial endophytes, with an emphasis on their potential applications in biotechnology, agriculture, and environmental remediation. His MSc and PhD work involve isolating and sequencing genomes of bacteria residing within medicinal plants like Pellaea calomelanos and Alectra sessiliflora. His studies highlight the ecological functions and genetic adaptations of these microbes, especially their capabilities for bioremediation and plant growth promotion. His latest research, published in 2025, examines Bacillus cereus endophytes and their biotechnological promise. In addition to his laboratory expertise in molecular biology, Khuthadzo has advanced skills in bioinformatics tools used for genome assembly and annotation. His interdisciplinary approach combines traditional microbiology with modern genomic science, contributing to sustainable solutions in agriculture and biotechnology. He aims to further understand the microbial contribution to plant health and explore novel microbial traits that can be leveraged for environmental sustainability.

Publications Top Notes: 

Draft genome sequence of Enterobacter hormaechei strain MHSD6, a plant endophyte isolated from Pellaea calomelanosMicrobiol Resour Announc (2019)

Draft genome sequence of Pseudarthrobacter phenanthrenivorans strain MHSD1, a bacterial endophyte from Pellaea calomelanosEvolutionary Bioinformatics (2020)

Draft Genome Sequence of Pantoea sp. Strain MHSD4, a bacterial endophyte with bioremediation potential – Evolutionary Bioinformatics (2024)

 Genome Sequence and Characterization of Bacillus cereus Endophytes, isolated from Alectra sessiliflora and their biotechnological potential – Microbiology Research (2025)

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Mr. Khuthadzo Tshishonga exemplifies the qualities sought in a recipient of the Research for Young Researcher Award. His academic excellence, research productivity, mentorship of young scientists, and leadership within his institution reflect a well-rounded early-career researcher with high potential. His work in microbial genomics not only advances scientific understanding but also holds practical relevance in addressing environmental and agricultural challenges. With continued support and opportunities for broader exposure, he is well-positioned to become a leading figure in the African and global biotechnology research landscape. Therefore, he is highly recommended for this award, as it would recognize and further enable his promising contributions to science and society.

Frédérique Pasquali | Microbial Cell Biology | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Frédérique Pasquali | Microbial Cell Biology | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Frédérique Pasquali | Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna | Italy

Dr. Frédérique Pasquali is a Junior Assistant Professor at the Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna. She is an expert in microbial food safety and molecular microbiology, with a focus on the genetic and environmental dynamics of foodborne pathogens. Her research integrates metagenomics, antimicrobial resistance monitoring, and source attribution modeling to advance microbial traceability and public health surveillance. She has made notable contributions through high-impact publications and interdisciplinary collaborations with international institutions and organizations, including EFSA. Dr. Pasquali is known for her leadership within academic programs, particularly in food risk management, and her active involvement in European scientific panels. Her career reflects a commitment to scientific excellence and the promotion of food safety in both research and policy settings.

Publication profile:

scopus

 🌟Strengths for the Award :

  • Outstanding Research Portfolio: Dr. Pasquali has an impressive publication record in high-impact journals such as Nature Communications, Scientific Reports, and Frontiers in Microbiology, showcasing deep expertise in microbial genomics, antimicrobial resistance, and source attribution.

  • Relevance and Innovation: Her recent work on sewage metagenomics offers innovative tools for source-attributed surveillance—a timely and impactful contribution to public health and environmental monitoring.

  • Leadership & Academic Involvement: As a Vice-representative of a master’s program in food risk management, she demonstrates strong educational leadership. Her selection to the EFSA reserve list of experts further emphasizes her scientific authority at the European level.

  • Collaborative and Interdisciplinary Work: Active in international consortia and multidisciplinary studies, she bridges the gap between microbial science, risk management, and policy implementation.

  • Recognition & Achievements: Her best poster award at the 34th EAEVE conference and national habilitation for associate professor signify peer recognition and potential for academic advancement.

🔧Areas for Improvement :

  • Visibility as Principal Investigator: While she contributes significantly to consortium papers, increased PI-level leadership in grants and first/last authorships could further solidify her independence as a researcher.

  • Mentorship Documentation: While involved in education, more formal documentation or evidence of mentoring early-career researchers, especially women in STEM, would strengthen her nomination for a gender-focused award.

  • Policy Impact Metrics: While aligned with EFSA, showcasing more direct outcomes or influence on policy would highlight broader societal impacts of her work.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Pasquali earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology in March 2000 from the University of Bologna, where she continued her studies to complete a PhD in Molecular Microbiology in April 2005. Her doctoral work laid the foundation for her expertise in bacterial genomics and microbial ecology. Following her PhD, she pursued postdoctoral research in microbial foodborne traceability, finishing in September 2009. Her academic journey has been deeply rooted in the University of Bologna, one of Europe’s most historic institutions, where she developed a robust understanding of microbial interactions, food safety, and biotechnology. Throughout her education, she engaged in interdisciplinary work that combined microbiology, bioinformatics, and public health. Her academic credentials reflect a long-standing dedication to research and a commitment to solving real-world challenges in food microbiology and safety.

🧪 Experience:

Dr. Pasquali currently serves as Junior Assistant Professor at the University of Bologna, where she plays a key role in teaching and research. Since 2025, she has been Vice-Representative of the Curriculum of Risk Management in the Master’s program in Food Safety and Food Risk Management. Her professional experience spans more than 20 years, including extensive work on microbial source attribution, antimicrobial resistance, and metagenomics. She has collaborated on several European-level research initiatives and actively contributes to EFSA panels and committees. Her previous roles include postdoctoral research in microbial traceability, contributing to national and international food safety surveillance strategies. Her work bridges science and policy, enabling data-driven decision-making in food safety. She also plays an active mentorship role, fostering the next generation of microbiologists. Her combination of teaching, research, and policy advisory experience positions her as a respected leader in her field.

🏆 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Frédérique Pasquali has been recognized with multiple awards and honors throughout her career. In 2021, she received the Best Poster Award at the 34th European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE) conference held at the University of Turin. In 2017, she obtained the National Scientific Qualification for Associate Professor (07/H2 – SSD MVET02/B) in Italy, marking her academic excellence and eligibility for advanced faculty positions. In 2023, she was listed in the EFSA/E/2023/01 reserve pool for experts eligible to serve on EFSA Scientific Panels and the Scientific Committee. As of 2024, she continues to serve on the EFSA reserve list, reinforcing her status as a recognized authority in food safety and risk analysis. These accolades reflect her continued dedication to high-quality research and public health protection through science-based risk management.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Pasquali’s research focuses on the microbial ecology and genomics of foodborne pathogens, with a special interest in antimicrobial resistance and microbial traceability. She utilizes metagenomic time-series analysis to distinguish environmental, human, and seasonal microbial profiles, aiding in accurate source attribution. Her work contributes to developing early-warning systems for foodborne outbreaks by integrating big data with network modeling. She is particularly interested in the genomic evolution of pathogens like Salmonella Typhimurium and Klebsiella, including their resistomes and persistence in food processing environments. Her contributions to One Health approaches link microbial data with public health and environmental surveillance. She actively collaborates with EFSA and international research teams to bridge gaps between research and policy, aiming to improve food safety, antimicrobial stewardship, and surveillance methodologies.

📚 Publication Titles Top Notes:

  1. 🧫 Time-series sewage metagenomics distinguishes seasonal, human-derived and environmental microbial communities potentially allowing source-attributed surveillance (Nat Commun, 2024)

  2. 🧬 Genomic features of Klebsiella isolates from artisanal ready-to-eat food production facilities (Sci Rep, 2023)

  3. 🐔 The resistome of commensal Escherichia coli isolated from broiler carcasses “produced without the use of antibiotics” (Poultry Science, 2022)

  4. 🦠 The spatiotemporal dynamics and microevolution events that favored the success of the highly clonal multidrug-resistant monophasic Salmonella Typhimurium circulating in Europe (Front Microbiol, 2021)

  5. 🕸 Network Approach to Source Attribution of Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium and Its Monophasic Variant (Front Microbiol, 2020)

Conclusion :

Dr. Frédérique Pasquali is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award. Her work is scientifically rigorous, socially relevant, and internationally recognized. She embodies the spirit of this award through her contributions to food safety, her role in shaping future professionals, and her presence in European scientific governance. With continued support and visibility, she is poised to make even greater contributions to science and public health.

 

Eman El-Wakil | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eman El-Wakil | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Eman El-Wakil , Theodor Bilharz Research Institute , Egypt

Dr. Eman Sayed Shabrawy El-Wakil is an Associate Professor and Consultant of Medical Parasitology at the Theodor Bilharz Research Institute (TBRI), Egypt. Born on November 21, 1985, she has been deeply engaged in research and diagnostics of parasitic diseases, particularly focusing on molecular characterization, novel therapeutics, and gut microbiota-parasite interaction. With multiple peer-reviewed publications, she contributes to advancing parasitological science both in Egypt and internationally. She earned her M.D. in Medical Parasitology from Cairo University, and her scholarly reputation is supported by memberships and indexed profiles on ResearchGate, Google Scholar, Scopus, and ORCID. Dr. El-Wakil’s work has received notable accolades, including the prestigious TBRI award for the best doctoral research. She is also a reviewer for multiple journals and collaborates on multidisciplinary research tackling emerging parasitic threats. Her vision integrates research, education, and public health improvement through evidence-based parasitology.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Eman Sayed Shabrawy El-Wakil stands out as a prominent figure in Medical Parasitology, with an impressive track record in research, publication, and applied therapeutics. Her strengths include:

  • Robust Research Output: With over 12 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact international journals between 2023–2025, her work addresses critical parasitic diseases like Cryptosporidiosis, Trichinellosis, Toxoplasmosis, and Entamoeba infections.

  • Innovative Methodologies: She has pioneered green synthesis, nanoparticle-based therapies, in silico modeling, and immunomodulatory strategies, showcasing her multidimensional expertise.

  • Academic Leadership: As an Associate Professor and Consultant at TBRI, she contributes to teaching, mentoring, and national public health research priorities.

  • International Recognition: Indexed in Scopus, Google Scholar, ORCID, and Web of Science, and recipient of the TBRI Award for the best doctoral research in 2021.

  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Engaged in research across nanomedicine, pharmacology, microbiota-parasite interactions, and immunotherapy.

🔍 Areas for Improvement:

While Dr. El-Wakil’s profile is distinguished, some areas can be enhanced to strengthen her global impact:

  • Increased Global Engagement: Participation in more international collaborative projects, conferences, and consortia would amplify the reach of her research.

  • Grant Acquisition: Pursuing competitive research funding (e.g., WHO, NIH, EU Horizon) would facilitate larger-scale studies and clinical applications.

  • Patents and Translational Outputs: Exploring patenting opportunities for her innovative therapeutic agents could position her as a translational research leader.

🎓 Education:

Dr. El-Wakil earned her Master’s (M.Sc.) in Medical Parasitology with Excellent distinction in May 2015, and her Doctorate (M.D.) in Medical Parasitology in May 2018 from the Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University. Her educational path is marked by excellence in theoretical and applied parasitology, encompassing key disciplines like Molecular Parasitology, Immunology, and Medical Parasitology. Her M.D. thesis, titled “Isolation and Molecular Characterization of Free-Living Amoebae from Water Sources in Egypt”, reflected her early interest in environmental parasitology and public health. The academic structure of her doctoral program integrated critical courses in host-parasite interactions and advanced diagnostic techniques, equipping her with both field and laboratory expertise. Her education established a strong foundation for a career defined by innovation, critical thinking, and translational research in parasitic diseases.

💼 Experience:

Currently serving as an Associate Professor and Consultant at TBRI’s Parasitology Department, Dr. El-Wakil brings over a decade of expertise in diagnostics, molecular biology, and experimental parasitology. She operates within the Immunology and Drug Evaluation Division, where she contributes to therapeutic investigations and drug repurposing studies targeting helminths and protozoa. Her consultancy role extends to research mentorship, scientific reviews, and diagnostic innovations for parasitic infections in Egypt. She also works closely with governmental and academic institutions under the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. Her leadership roles in various inter-institutional projects have propelled the institute’s visibility in parasitology. She also manages collaborations involving nanotechnology, bioinformatics, and herbal medicine as potential parasitic treatments. Dr. El-Wakil exemplifies a blend of academic rigor and applied science, aligning her role with national health priorities and global research trends.

🏅 Honors and Awards:

Dr. El-Wakil was honored with the Theodor Bilharz Research Institute Award in 2021 for the best research derived from a doctoral dissertation—an acknowledgment of her innovation in parasitological research. This award recognized her pioneering work on free-living amoebae and her methodological precision. In addition to institutional awards, her research has been showcased in multiple open-access international journals, and she frequently receives commendations for excellence in experimental design and publication impact. Her work on novel anti-parasitic agents and immunotherapeutic approaches has attracted attention in scientific forums. She has also contributed to multi-author reviews on global health topics such as SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, highlighting her versatility as a researcher. Her awards reflect both her depth of knowledge and the real-world applicability of her research in enhancing public health outcomes.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. El-Wakil’s research concentrates on the epidemiology, molecular diagnostics, and therapeutic strategies for parasitic infections. Her work integrates natural product pharmacology, nanotechnology-based delivery systems, and immune modulation therapies. Her investigations cover a broad spectrum of parasites, from protozoa like Cryptosporidium and Entamoeba, to helminths such as Trichinella spiralis. Recent research includes green synthesis of nanoparticles, bioinformatics-based molecular docking, and gut microbiota-parasite interactions. A recurring theme in her research is the repurposing of existing drugs for parasitic treatment, evaluated both in vitro and in vivo. She also explores the interplay between host immunity and parasitic infection using molecular signaling pathways such as P2X7 receptors. Her focus on translational parasitology bridges basic research and therapeutic innovation, providing insights into both endemic and emerging infections in Egypt and beyond.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🍊 Green Synthesis of Chitosan/Silver Nanoparticles Using Citrus paradisi Extract and Its Potential Anti-Cryptosporidiosis Effect

  2. 🧬 Microbiota-Parasite Interaction: Implication of Secretory Immunoglobulin A and P2X7 Receptor Signaling

  3. 🌿 Repurposing Drugs to Treat Trichinellosis: In Vitro Analysis of Nifedipine and Chrysanthemum coronarium Extract

  4. 🧪 Prevalence and Molecular Identification of Entamoeba Species Complex in Egyptians

  5. 📊 Mapping Gut Parasitism Patterns in a Cohort of Egyptians

  6. 🍃 Annona Muricata Leaf as an Anti-Cryptosporidial Agent: In Silico and In Vivo Study

  7. 🌼 Prophylactic and Therapeutic Effects of Kaempferol on Experimental Trichinella Spiralis

  8. 💊 Surfactant Vesicles for Enhanced Antitoxoplasmic Effect of Norfloxacin

  9. 🧾 SARS-CoV-2 Vaccines from A to Z: A Review of the Current Challenges

  10. 💉 Albendazole and Berberine Nanoparticles in Experimental Trichinellosis

  11. 🌿 Therapeutic Efficacy of Silymarin on Intestinal and Muscular Phases of Trichinellosis

  12. 🧫 Trichinella spiralis Antigens for Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Immunotherapeutic and Prophylactic Potential

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Eman S. El-Wakil demonstrates excellence in research productivity, scientific innovation, and professional engagement. Her contributions to parasitology—especially in the field of therapeutic innovation using natural compounds and nanoparticles—mark her as an emerging leader in her field. Given her academic rigor, publication record, and commitment to tackling parasitic diseases of global health concern, she is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award.