Kwaghgba Elijah Gbabe | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Dr. Kwaghgba Elijah Gbabe | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kwaghgba Elijah Gbabe | Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute | Nigeria

Engr. Dr. Kwaghgba Elijah Gbabe is a seasoned Senior Research Officer at the Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute (NSPRI), Ilorin, Nigeria. With over nine years of progressive research experience, he specializes in food processing, postharvest technology, and agricultural nanotechnology. He is a trailblazer in developing electrospun hexanal nanofiber matrices aimed at extending the shelf-life of fruits such as bananas, mangoes, and tomatoes. His research integrates innovative preservation technologies to enhance food quality and sustainability. A COREN-certified engineer and postgraduate fellow, Dr. Gbabe has collaborated internationally, notably with the Centre for Agricultural Nanotechnology in India. With extensive publications and conference contributions, he is an advocate of research-driven food security and sustainable packaging. He brings a multidisciplinary edge to the evolving field of agricultural innovation, focusing on reducing postharvest losses and increasing storage efficiency in sub-Saharan Africa.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Innovative Research in Agricultural Nanotechnology

    • Pioneered the development of electrospun hexanal nanofiber matrices for fruit shelf-life extension — an emerging and impactful technology in food preservation.

  2. Strong Publication Record 

    • Over a dozen peer-reviewed journal articles and conference papers published across international and national platforms with DOIs, indicating high-quality scholarly contribution.

  3. Hands-On International Collaboration 

    • Completed a research internship at TNAU, India, and collaborated with renowned global experts like Prof. K.S. Subramanian in nanoscience.

  4. Multi-disciplinary Skills 

    • Expertise in advanced instrumentation (FTIR, GC-MS, SEM, TEM) and statistical tools (R, SPSS) shows broad technical competence.

  5. Real-world Application & Societal Impact 

    • Focuses on postharvest technologies to reduce food losses, enhance food safety, and support smallholder farmers and artisans.

  6. Leadership and Mentorship

    • Supervises junior staff, fabricators, and trainees, and contributes to capacity building through training workshops.

  7. Recognized Academic Achievement 

    • Recipient of the Benue State University Postgraduate Fellowship (2020–2025).

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Technology Commercialization and Patenting

    • While research output is strong, translating research into commercial products or patents could increase impact.

  2. Broader International Visibility

    • Participation in more international consortia or grants (e.g., EU Horizon, USAID, FAO) could elevate the global footprint.

  3. Expanded Multidisciplinary Outreach

    • Could integrate more with biotech and AI in agri-research, especially in smart packaging and AI-driven postharvest solutions.

Education:

Dr. Gbabe is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in Food Processing and Technology at Benue State University, Makurdi (2020–2025), with a research focus on developing electrospun hexanal nanofiber matrices for fruit preservation. He holds a Master of Engineering in Agricultural and Environmental Engineering from the University of Agriculture, Makurdi (2017–2019), where his thesis explored eco-building materials using rice husk and sawdust. His undergraduate and professional training background is further enhanced by a Certificate in Computer Appreciation (2010), an internship at the Centre for Agricultural Nanotechnology, TNAU, India (2023), and registration with COREN (2024). Dr. Gbabe is also a member of the Nigerian Institution of Agricultural Engineers (NIAE-M2207), demonstrating a strong foundation in both academic knowledge and regulatory standards in engineering and food technology. His educational pursuits reflect a consistent drive toward sustainability, innovation, and technological adaptation in agricultural systems.

Experience:

Dr. Gbabe serves as a Senior Research Officer at NSPRI since 2016, where he leads projects on postharvest technology, storage engineering, and food shelf-life enhancement. His duties span experimental design, research data analysis, technical report writing, equipment fabrication supervision, and stakeholder training. He has been instrumental in developing novel postharvest technologies and electrospun hexanal nanofiber matrices for fruit preservation. In 2023, he completed a research internship at the Centre for Agricultural Nanotechnology, TNAU, India, gaining hands-on experience in nanotoxicity, food nanotechnology, and biosafety. Dr. Gbabe is known for his interdisciplinary collaboration, capacity-building initiatives, and extensive field and lab-based research. He also coordinates training programs for artisans, farmers, and students. His rich professional journey is marked by impactful project execution, community-focused technology dissemination, and consistent contributions to national and international research publications.

Research Focus:

Dr. Gbabe’s research is centered on postharvest loss reduction, sustainable food preservation, and agricultural nanotechnology. He is pioneering the use of electrospun hexanal nanofiber matrices to extend the shelf-life of perishable fruits like bananas, mangoes, and tomatoes—a major advancement in food storage technology. His work addresses the chemical and biological challenges in postharvest handling, integrating advanced techniques such as FTIR, GC-MS, SEM, and TEM to monitor quality and degradation. He is also exploring green materials for packaging and eco-friendly building solutions using agricultural waste like rice husks and sawdust. His international collaboration with TNAU, India, expanded his research in nanotoxicity and food safety. With a focus on experimental design, interdisciplinary innovation, and practical application, Dr. Gbabe contributes to the development of scalable, cost-effective technologies tailored for African agricultural ecosystems. His goal is to enhance food security through intelligent preservation methods and sustainable postharvest engineering.

Publication Top Notes:

  1.  Effect of Hexanal Nano-fiber Matrix on Quality Parameters of Tomato Fruits during Storage

  2.  Development of Novel Hexanal Nano-fibre Matrix by Electrospinning for Shelf-life Extension of Mango Fruits

  3.  Implication of Different Storage Techniques on Physical Attributes of African Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus)

  4.  Maize Grains Milling Efficiency: A Performance Analysis of a Hammer Mill

  5.  Insecticidal and Toxicity Studies of Heliotropium Indicum Leaf Extracts for Stored Grain Pest Control

  6.  Commercial Utilization of Inert Atmosphere Silo for Maize Storage

  7.  Chemical and Physico-chemical Properties of OFSP Chips Dried Using Solar Dryers

  8.  Evaluation of the Use of Rice Husk in Producing Eco-Building Materials

  9.  Pros and Cons of AI Thermal Imaging in Postharvest Handling of Agricultural Products

  10.  Development of Hexanal Electrospun Nano-fiber Matrix for Banana Preservation

Conclusion:

Engr. Dr. Kwaghgba Elijah Gbabe is an exemplary researcher who combines scientific rigor, technological innovation, and practical application in the field of food systems and agricultural engineering. His pioneering work in nanotechnology, coupled with his leadership in postharvest technology, makes him exceptionally deserving of the Best Researcher Award.

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

Published on by Cell Biologist

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.