Saika Farook | Microbiology | Excellence in Research Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Saika Farook | Microbiology | Excellence in Research Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Saika Farook | Ibrahim Medical College | Bangladesh 

Dr. Saika Farook is a dedicated microbiologist from Bangladesh with a strong academic background and extensive experience in infectious diseases and microbiology. She earned her MD in Microbiology from BIRDEM Academy (BSMMU) and has been actively involved in research and teaching. Currently, she serves as an Assistant Professor at Ibrahim Medical College and an Adjunct Faculty at BRAC University. Dr. Farook’s work centers on identifying and combating bacterial infections, especially Burkholderia pseudomallei, the causative agent of melioidosis, a neglected tropical disease. She has contributed significantly to both clinical diagnostics and molecular research and has been recognized as a speaker at international conferences. Saika’s commitment to bridging laboratory findings with clinical practice makes her a valuable asset in the field of medical microbiology. She is a life member of Bangladesh Society of Medical Microbiologists and contributes globally to the American Society for Microbiology.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid
Scopus

Education:

Dr. Saika Farook completed her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from Noakhali Medical College, affiliated with Chittagong University. She then pursued a Doctor of Medicine (MD) in Microbiology from BIRDEM Academy under Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), graduating . Her early education includes O’ Levels from Shaheen English Medium School with 8 A’s and Higher Secondary Certificate (H.S.C.) from Rajuk Uttara Model College, Dhaka. Her rigorous academic journey demonstrates a consistent pursuit of excellence, culminating in advanced specialization in microbiology, infectious diseases, and molecular diagnostics. She has also enhanced her skills through multiple workshops on bioinformatics, bacterial genomics, and infection prevention.

Experience:

Dr. Farook has accumulated rich professional experience in both clinical and academic settings. She has been an Assistant Professor at Ibrahim Medical College’s Department of Microbiology. She holds an adjunct faculty role in the Department of Mathematics and Natural Science at BRAC University. Previously, she served as Junior Consultant at DMFR Molecular Lab & Diagnostics and worked as a Virologist during the critical COVID-19 period. She completed a rigorous MD residency in Microbiology at BIRDEM Academy and served as an intern doctor at Jananeta Nurul Haque Adhunik Hospital. Her roles highlight strong clinical acumen paired with research-driven teaching, enhancing laboratory diagnostic techniques and molecular microbiology.

Research Focus:

Dr. Saika Farook’s research primarily targets Burkholderia pseudomallei, the bacterium responsible for melioidosis, focusing on its detection, molecular epidemiology, and antimicrobial susceptibility. She has contributed to developing novel diagnostic methods, such as Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification assays and selective culture media. Her research also explores the clinical epidemiology of infectious diseases, including latent tuberculosis and IgG4-related disorders. Funded by both Ibrahim Medical College and the Ministry of Health, her ongoing projects delve into molecular epidemiology and clinical sample analysis from tertiary hospitals in Dhaka. Her work bridges molecular diagnostics and public health, addressing gaps in disease recognition in Bangladesh. Dr. Farook has actively presented her findings in national and international forums, reflecting her commitment to advancing microbiological research with real-world clinical applications.

Publications Top Notes: 

  1. An improved Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification based assay for the rapid Identification of Genomic DNA of Burkholderia pseudomallei

  2. Melioidosis cases detected in Dhaka, Bangladesh: a positive impact of 3rd South Asian Melioidosis Congress

  3. Effectiveness of a novel selective medium “Modified MacConkey Agar for Burkholderia” for isolation of Burkholderia pseudomallei

  4. Knowledge on melioidosis among healthcare workers of Bangladesh

  5. Melioidosis: Still Unresolved and Undetected in Unexplored Regions

  6. Interferon Gamma Release Assay for Latent Tuberculosis Screening in High TB-Endemic Region: A Retrospective Study

  7. Use of Comparative Genomics to resolve an unusual case of Aminoglycoside Susceptibility in Burkholderia pseudomallei

  8. Localized Disseminated Tuberculosis in a 3 year’s old Bangladeshi boy: A Case Study

  9. Modified MacConkey agar: a simple selective medium for isolation of Burkholderia pseudomallei from soil

  10.  Phylogeographic characterization of Burkholderia pseudomallei isolated from Bangladesh

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Dr. Saika Farook is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Excellence in Research Award. Her strong academic background, significant research contributions in microbiology and infectious diseases, and active participation in academic and scientific communities demonstrate her dedication and impact in her field. With some strategic focus on expanding international collaborations, translational research, and leadership in mentoring, she could further strengthen her candidacy. Overall, her achievements and ongoing commitment to advancing medical microbiology make her an excellent contender for recognition through this award.

Alejandro Rojas | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Alejandro Rojas | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Alejandro Rojas | Austral University of Chile | Germany

Dr. Alejandro Alfredo Rojas Fernández is a distinguished Chilean molecular biotechnologist and neuroscientist, currently serving as CEO of Berking Theranostics UG in Hamburg, Germany, and Assistant Professor at the Universidad Austral de Chile. With over two decades of research spanning neurodegeneration, immunology, and viral pathogenesis, Dr. Rojas-Fernández has emerged as a leading expert in molecular diagnostics and theranostics. His innovative work has significantly impacted global health, notably through his contributions to SARS-CoV-2 research and senolytic therapies. A dual academic and entrepreneur, he bridges fundamental science and clinical application, actively publishing in top-tier journals such as Nature Aging, Molecular Psychiatry, and Journal of Cell Biology. Fluent in interdisciplinary collaboration, his efforts have been internationally recognized with multiple honors. With a passion for translational science, Dr. Rojas-Fernández continues to inspire the next generation of biomedical innovators through mentorship and leadership in biotechnology and neuroscience.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

Education:

Dr. Alejandro Rojas-Fernández earned his PhD in Biology from the University of Konstanz, Germany (2006–2010), where his research focused on the regulation of Hdm2/HdmX-mediated ubiquitination and neddylation—mechanisms central to protein stability and cancer biology. Prior to his doctorate, he completed his engineering degree in Molecular Biotechnology (2004–2005) and his B.Sc. in Molecular Biotechnology Engineering (2000–2004) at the Faculty of Sciences, University of Chile—one of Latin America’s leading research institutions. His multidisciplinary education integrates molecular biology, neurobiology, immunology, and translational medicine, equipping him with the foundational and advanced tools to tackle complex biomedical challenges. Dr. Rojas-Fernández’s academic training has been marked by academic excellence and international mobility, enabling him to collaborate and lead research projects across Europe and Latin America.

Experience:

Dr. Rojas-Fernández brings over 20 years of experience in translational biomedical research, academia, and biotech innovation. As CEO of Berking Theranostics UG, he spearheads the development of personalized diagnostic platforms and therapeutics, with a focus on neurodegenerative and inflammatory diseases. In his role as Assistant Professor at Universidad Austral de Chile (20% appointment), he leads the Medical Biotechnology Laboratory within the Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies on the Nervous System (CISNe), contributing to scientific training and cutting-edge research. He previously trained and collaborated at institutions such as the University of Dundee, University of Queensland, and University of Constance, advancing molecular mechanisms of SUMOylation, proteostasis, inflammasome biology, and viral-host interactions. His interdisciplinary expertise allows him to translate complex cellular insights into tangible clinical applications, and his leadership has resulted in high-impact publications, product pipelines, and strategic biotech partnerships in Europe and Latin America.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Rojas-Fernández has received multiple prestigious honors recognizing his innovative biomedical research. In February 2025, he was named “Innovator of the Month” by Hamburg Invest for groundbreaking biotech contributions in Germany. He was awarded the Medal of the City of Valdivia for his vital role in controlling the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, one of the highest local honors in Chile. Additionally, he received the 2nd of October Medal for Science and Innovation, recognizing his scientific leadership in Chile’s Los Ríos region. These accolades underscore his impact on global public health, neurodegenerative research, and biotechnology entrepreneurship. His consistent recognition reflects a career dedicated to translational excellence, fostering international collaboration, and advancing science for the benefit of society. His scientific achievements continue to inspire innovation and interdisciplinary approaches within the global scientific community.

Research Focus:

Dr. Alejandro Rojas-Fernández’s research centers on cellular stress responses, ubiquitin/SUMO signaling, neurodegeneration, and host-pathogen interactions. A core focus is the molecular crosstalk between autophagy, protein quality control, and inflammasome activation in brain and immune cells. He has made significant advances in understanding the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on microglia, mechanisms of senescence in aging brains, and nanobody-based viral neutralization. His studies also explore the intersection of endoplasmic reticulum stress and neurodegenerative pathways, using high-content screening and proteomics to uncover therapeutic targets. He actively translates molecular insights into diagnostics and theranostic tools, positioning him at the forefront of personalized medicine. As CEO of a biotech startup, he is developing platforms that integrate biomarker discovery with AI for neuroinflammation profiling. His research bridges fundamental biology and clinical applications, promoting innovative therapies for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, cancer, and viral infections.

Publications Top Notes: 

  1. Negative Modulation of Macroautophagy by Stabilized HERPUD1… – Front Cell Dev Biol, 2022

  2. SARS-CoV-2 drives NLRP3 inflammasome activation in human microglia… – Mol Psychiatry, 2022

  3. The p97/VCP segregase is essential for arsenic-induced degradation of PML… – J Cell Biol, 2023

  4. Lack of Parkinsonian Pathology after Proteasome Inhibitor Injection… – Front Aging Neurosci, 2021

  5. NSPA modulates postsynaptic NMDAR stability… – BMC Biol, 2020

  6. Role of PSMD14 in Golgi-to-ER transport and APP processing – Cells, 2020

  7. WDR90 in NLRC4 inflammasome and Salmonella resistance – Dev Comp Immunol, 2019

  8. Proteomic identification of APC interaction partners – Mol Cancer Res, 2019

  9. DHX15 regulates CMTR1-dependent gene expression – Life Sci Alliance, 2018

  10.  Membrane ruffling by polarized stim1 and orai1 – Sci Reports, 2017

Conclusion:

Dr. Alejandro Alfredo Rojas Fernández stands out as a pioneering researcher who consistently delivers scientifically rigorous, socially impactful, and clinically relevant work. His career spans critical sectors—basic research, applied biotechnology, and public health—making him a model example of the translational scientist. With accolades from both European and Latin American institutions and a track record of high-impact publications, Dr. Rojas exemplifies what it means to be a globally relevant and community-driven scientist. His work during the COVID-19 pandemic, innovations in molecular neuroscience, and leadership in therapeutic biotechnology underscore his immense value to the global research community. In conclusion, he is not only a suitable but a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Sola Ogunmodede | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Sola Ogunmodede | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Sola Ogunmodede, Helix Biogen Institute, Nigeria

Olusola Peter Ogunmodede is a microbiologist and researcher at Helix Biogen Institute, Ogbomoso, Nigeria, specializing in medical mycology, fungal genomics, and bioinformatics diagnostics. He earned his MSc in Microbiology from the University of Lagos, where he investigated Neurospora crassa’s growth and mating patterns, and a B.Tech from LAUTECH, where he focused on bioactive fungal metabolites. He is passionate about addressing global health threats through innovative, cost-effective diagnostic tools, especially in resource-limited settings. Olusola has co-authored several peer-reviewed publications, including studies on peptide-based diagnostics for cholera and Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, and has led or contributed to antimicrobial and genomic research projects. In addition to his research, he teaches bioinformatics and molecular biology techniques to students and professionals. Through community outreach on Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) and youth mentorship, he combines scientific excellence with civic engagement, making him a rising star in biomedical research.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Contributions: With published works in Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry, Tropical Journal of Natural Product Research, and In Silico Research in Biomedicine, Mr. Ogunmodede has co-authored impactful studies in infectious disease diagnostics, fungal bioactive compounds, and computational biology.

  2. Interdisciplinary Research: His projects span medical mycology, bioinformatics, environmental microbiology, and biotechnology, showing adaptability and scientific depth.

  3. Leadership Experience: Progressed from Assistant Project Manager to Project Manager at Helix Biogen Institute, evidencing strong organizational and scientific leadership capabilities.

  4. Community and Teaching Involvement: Demonstrated commitment to science communication, mentorship, and community service—notably in NTD awareness and prison outreach.

  5. Technical Expertise: Competent in bioinformatics, NGS, GC-MS, PCR, and fungal metabolite extraction—skills relevant to modern microbiological research.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Independent Research Leadership: While collaborative efforts are commendable, initiating and leading first-author research or grant-funded projects would further strengthen his academic identity.

  2. Global Collaborations: Expanding international partnerships or postdoctoral research exposure could enhance visibility and diversify methodologies.

  3. Data Science Fluency: Building advanced skills in AI-based diagnostics, big data genomics, or machine learning would broaden his research scope.

  4. Publication Frequency: While the quality of his publications is notable, maintaining consistency in publication output across more years would support a long-term scholarly trajectory.

🎓 Education:

Olusola Peter Ogunmodede holds an MSc in Microbiology from the University of Lagos, where he explored carbon utilization and genetic typing of Neurospora crassa. His B.Tech in Microbiology was awarded by Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), where his research focused on endophytic fungal metabolites and their bioactive compounds using GC-MS. His academic path began with a National Diploma (ND) in Science Laboratory Technology from Federal Polytechnic Bida, with an applied project on aquaculture pond development. Each stage of his education has built a layered expertise in microbial physiology, antimicrobial studies, and bioanalytical techniques. His academic work has consistently integrated field relevance with lab-based precision, culminating in strong publications and practical applications in diagnostics, antimicrobial discovery, and environmental sustainability. His diverse educational background underpins a research philosophy rooted in innovation, interdisciplinary knowledge, and public health impact.

💼 Experience:

Olusola Peter Ogunmodede is currently a Project Manager at Helix Biogen Institute, where he leads diagnostic development projects for cholera, CCHF, and H5N1, manages timelines, trains researchers in bioinformatics, and oversees biodegradability studies. Previously, he served as an Assistant Project Manager, executing similar responsibilities. He also has a background in secondary school teaching, where he taught Biology, Agricultural Science, and Technical Drawing, reflecting his ability to engage at all levels of education. His research experience includes peptide-centric diagnostic design, fungal metabolite analysis, biogas generation, and environmental biodegradation testing. He’s proficient in both traditional microbiology techniques and modern molecular tools like PCR, sequencing, and in silico modeling. Additionally, he’s an Instructor at Helix Biogen, teaching NGS, Sanger sequencing, and basic bioinformatics. His strong balance of project leadership, lab research, and academic teaching makes him a versatile and highly effective researcher.

🔬 Research Focus:

Olusola Peter Ogunmodede’s research centers around the bioactive potential of fungi, molecular diagnostics, and antimicrobial resistance. He is especially interested in the use of fungal metabolites as alternatives to synthetic antimicrobials, and the genetic and physiological profiling of fungi in relation to infectious diseases. His work bridges wet-lab and computational techniques, applying bioinformatics for designing peptide-based diagnostics for diseasesvsuch as cholera, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, and yaws. He also investigates the biodegradability of medical materials, promoting sustainability in biomedical innovation. Olusola’s MSc work on Neurospora crassa and undergraduate research on endophytic fungi laid the foundation for his continued exploration into fungal biodiversity and its applications. His recent projects employ computational tools to develop point-of-care diagnostic kits, targeting low-resource environments where fast, accurate diagnostics are critical. His goal is to integrate genomic science and public health interventions for disease surveillance and control in tropical regions.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 Computational Modeling and Validation of Predicted Diagnostic Peptides for Crimean–Congo’s Disease – Biotechnol Appl Biochem, 2025

  2. 🧪 Innovative Biomarker Design for Cholera Diagnosis through Bioinformatics Analysis – In Silico Research in Biomedicine, 2025

  3. 🍄 Synthesis of Endophytic Fungi Metabolites, Antimicrobial Potentials, and Detection of their Bioactive Molecules Using GC-MS – Tropical Journal of Natural Product Research, 2022

  4. 🦠 Molecular Characterization, Antimicrobial and Larvicidal Potentials of Fungi from Soil Samples of LAUTECH Botanical Garden – Archive of Science & Technology, 2020

🧾 Conclusion:

Olusola Peter Ogunmodede is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award in view of his technical versatility, impactful publications, leadership in diagnostic tool development, and community engagement. With further investment in independent research leadership and global exposure, he stands out as a promising and emerging scholar in medical microbiology and bioinformatics.

Amira Ibrahim | Cell Differentiation Processes | Innovative Research Award

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Dr. Amira Ibrahim | Cell Differentiation Processes | Innovative Research Award

Dr. Amira Ibrahim , Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority , Egypt

Dr. Amira Ibrahim Sayed is a dedicated academic and researcher, currently serving as a Lecturer at the National Center for Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Egypt. With a career grounded in oral medicine and radiology, Dr. Sayed demonstrates a multidisciplinary approach by integrating dental science with radiological and pharmaceutical research. She is known for her strong commitment to advancing healthcare through both education and scientific inquiry. Her diverse academic and professional background allows her to bridge the gap between clinical practice and biomedical research. Passionate about mentoring and teaching, she holds part-time academic roles at Misr University for Science and Technology. Dr. Sayed’s collaborative work in the synthesis of novel therapeutic agents highlights her innovative spirit and significant contributions to drug discovery, antiviral therapy, and radiation impact studies. Her impressive portfolio of peer-reviewed publications and participation in key academic courses make her a well-rounded candidate for the Research for Innovative Research Award.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Interdisciplinary Research Excellence
    Dr. Sayed merges expertise in oral medicine, radiology, and pharmaceutical chemistry—a rare and impactful blend. Her research spans both clinical and molecular levels, showing depth and versatility.

  2. Strong Publication Record
    With over 10 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals, her work is recognized across multiple fields including medicinal chemistry, antiviral therapy, and radiation sciences.

  3. Innovative Drug Discovery Focus
    Her work on the synthesis and molecular docking of pyrrolopyrimidine, benzimidazole, and thiouracil derivatives demonstrates cutting-edge innovation in developing novel therapeutic agents.

  4. Experience in Radiation Health Research
    Given her role at the National Center for Radiation Research & Technology, she actively contributes to important national research in radiation biology—an area of growing relevance.

  5. Academic and Educational Contributions
    As a lecturer at multiple institutions, she plays a vital role in knowledge transfer, student mentorship, and academic development.

  6. Multilingual Communication & Skills
    Her ability to communicate in Arabic, English, and basic German supports her involvement in international collaborations.

🛠 Areas for Improvement:

  1. Global Research Collaborations
    Greater participation in international collaborative projects, consortia, or funding initiatives would further elevate her impact and visibility.

  2. Patents and Practical Applications
    Filing for patents or translating her synthesized compounds into preclinical or clinical studies could reinforce the practical significance of her innovations.

  3. Increased Leadership Roles
    Engagement in leading research teams or coordinating large-scale projects could reflect greater influence within her scientific community.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Amira Ibrahim Sayed began her academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Dental Surgery (B.D.S) in 2005 from the Faculty of Oral and Dental Medicine, Cairo University. She further specialized in Oral Radiology, obtaining a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in 2014 from the same institution. Her academic curiosity and passion for interdisciplinary research led her to pursue a Ph.D. in Oral Medicine, Periodontology, Oral Diagnosis, and Radiology, which she completed in 2020 at Al-Azhar University. This diverse academic foundation has enabled her to explore the intersections of radiology, oral health, and medicinal chemistry. Dr. Sayed’s education reflects a strong emphasis on both clinical and scientific research skills, providing her with the expertise required to innovate in both diagnostic and therapeutic fields. Her comprehensive academic background makes her uniquely equipped to contribute to scientific research in radiation biology, oral diagnostics, and pharmaceutical innovation.

🧪 Experience:

Dr. Amira Ibrahim Sayed has amassed extensive academic and research experience, notably as a Lecturer at the National Center for Radiation Research & Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, since 2021. She started her professional journey there in 2015 as an Assistant Lecturer. Additionally, she contributes to higher education as a part-time Lecturer at Misr University for Science and Technology, where she also held an Assistant Lecturer role between 2015 and 2016. Her responsibilities include curriculum development, supervising student research, and lecturing in oral medicine and radiology. She has also actively participated in specialized training, such as the Ionizing Radiation Protection course, enhancing her qualifications in radiological safety. Her hands-on experience in both academic and applied research settings, combined with her interdisciplinary work in pharmacology and medical imaging, highlights her competence in navigating complex scientific challenges. Her professional trajectory is a testament to her adaptability, diligence, and commitment to innovation in health sciences.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Amira Ibrahim Sayed’s research is centered around oral radiology, radiation protection, and the synthesis of novel pharmaceutical agents with therapeutic potential. Her interdisciplinary work bridges oral health sciences with medicinal chemistry, aiming to improve diagnostics and treatments in fields such as oncology, virology, and inflammation. She has explored the biological effects of magnetic resonance imaging and radiation on dental restorations and bone healing, highlighting her commitment to clinical relevance. Moreover, her innovative research on pyrrolopyrimidine and benzimidazole derivatives positions her at the forefront of drug discovery, particularly in antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory domains. Dr. Sayed utilizes molecular docking and simulation techniques to predict compound efficacy and mechanism of action. Her dedication to enhancing patient care through translational research, combined with a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals, showcases her as a forward-thinking scientist making meaningful contributions to biomedical innovation.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧲 Effect of Magnetic Resonance Imaging on Microleakage of Amalgam Restoration

  2. 🦴 Radiographic and Histopathologic Evaluation of L-Carnitine and Vitamin E Efficacy on Irradiated Jaw Bones

  3. 🧪 Synthesis of Certain Pyrimidine Derivatives as Antimicrobial and Anti-inflammatory Agents

  4. 🧬 Design, Synthesis, and Molecular Docking of Pyrrolopyrimidine Derivatives as NS5B Polymerase Inhibitors

  5. 🦠 Novel Antiviral Compounds Against Gastroenteric Viral Infections

  6. 🧫 Synthesis of Novel Pyrroles and Fused Pyrroles as Antifungal and Antibacterial Agents

  7. 💊 Synthesis Strategies and Biological Value of Pyrrole and Pyrrolopyrimidine

  8. 🧯 Design and Evaluation of Pyrrolopyrimidine Derivatives as Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Agents

  9. 🦠 Evaluation of Pyrrolopyrimidine Derivatives as Antivirals Against Gastroenteric Viruses

📝 Conclusion:

Dr. Amira Ibrahim Sayed is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Innovative Research Award. Her commitment to interdisciplinary innovation, particularly in radiation research and therapeutic compound development, aligns well with the award’s objective to honor groundbreaking scientific contributions. With a strong track record of impactful publications and academic leadership, she stands out as a researcher dedicated to improving health outcomes through science. Strengthening her global collaborations and translating research into applications will only further her potential for scientific excellence and recognition.