Eman El-Wakil | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

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.

Marcio Rodrigues | Microbial Cell Biology | Pioneer Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Dr. Marcio Rodrigues | Microbial Cell Biology | Pioneer Researcher Award

Dr. Marcio Rodrigues , Fiocruz , Brazil

Dr. Marcio L. Rodrigues is a distinguished Senior Investigator at the Carlos Chagas Institute of Fiocruz, specializing in fungal infections. His pioneering work in fungal extracellular vesicles (EVs) has revolutionized the understanding of fungal secretion mechanisms and antifungal drug development. With an extensive background in microbiology and pharmaceutical sciences, Dr. Rodrigues has made groundbreaking contributions to Cryptococcus research. He has held editorial roles at prestigious journals, coordinated major research programs, and received numerous accolades, including a Fellowship at the Brazilian Academy of Sciences. His research has significantly impacted global fungal disease studies, earning him recognition as a leader in the field.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

Strengths for the Award:

✅ Pioneering Contributions – Dr. Rodrigues has significantly advanced fungal microbiology, particularly in the field of fungal extracellular vesicles (EVs), a groundbreaking area of study.
✅ Extensive Research Output – His prolific publication record in high-impact journals like Nature Microbiology and mBio reflects the depth of his contributions.
✅ Leadership & Editorial Roles – His position as an editor for Current Topics in Microbiology and Immunology and ASM’s mBio demonstrates his influence in the scientific community.
✅ International Recognition – His fellowships and awards, including the Wellcome Trust Pathfinder Award and recognition by The World Academy of Science (TWAS), highlight his global impact.
✅ Funding & Program Coordination – As a coordinator of the Inova Funding Program at Fiocruz, he plays a crucial role in fostering research and innovation.

Areas for Improvement:

🔹 Industry Collaboration – While his research is academically impactful, expanding collaborations with biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies could enhance the translational applications of his findings.
🔹 Public Outreach & Policy Advocacy – Increasing public engagement and involvement in global health policy discussions on fungal infections would further solidify his influence beyond academia.
🔹 Interdisciplinary Expansion – Bridging fungal biology with AI-driven bioinformatics or immunotherapy could push his research into newer frontiers.

Education:

🎓 Federal University of Rio de Janeiro
🔹 PHMD (1995) – Pharmaceutical Sciences
🔹 PhD (2000) – Microbiology

Dr. Rodrigues pursued his higher education at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, obtaining a PHMD in Pharmaceutical Sciences in 1995. He further specialized in Microbiology, completing his PhD in 2000. His academic training provided a strong foundation for his career in medical mycology, particularly in studying fungal pathogens. His doctoral research focused on the biology of Cryptococcus neoformans, paving the way for his later work in fungal extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their role in pathogen virulence and drug resistance.

Experience:

🔬 Senior Investigator, Carlos Chagas Institute, Fiocruz
📖 Editor, Current Topics in Microbiology and Immunology (Springer)
📝 Mini-review Editor, ASM’s mBio
💡 Coordinator, Inova Funding Program, Fiocruz

With over two decades of research experience, Dr. Rodrigues has established himself as a global leader in fungal biology and infectious diseases. As a Senior Investigator at Fiocruz, he leads studies on fungal EVs, antifungal resistance, and molecular microbiology. His editorial roles in high-impact journals underscore his expertise in the field, while his coordination of research funding programs demonstrates his commitment to advancing mycology research.

Awards & Honors:

🏆 Pathfinder Award (2014-2016) – The Wellcome Trust, UK
🌍 Young Affiliate (2011-2015) – The World Academy of Science (TWAS)
🇧🇷 Fellow (2024) – Brazilian Academy of Sciences

Dr. Rodrigues has received prestigious awards for his contributions to fungal pathogenesis and drug discovery. His recognition as a Pathfinder Awardee by The Wellcome Trust and a Young Affiliate of TWAS highlights his impact on global infectious disease research. In 2024, he was elected a Fellow of the Brazilian Academy of Sciences, reinforcing his standing as a leading researcher in microbiology.

Research Focus:

🦠 Fungal Extracellular Vesicles (EVs)
💊 Antifungal Drug Discovery
🔬 Cryptococcus neoformans Pathogenesis
🧫 Molecular Mechanisms of Fungal Infections

Dr. Rodrigues’ research has been instrumental in uncovering the role of fungal EVs in pathogen virulence and host interactions. His work has led to novel insights into fungal secretion mechanisms and drug resistance, contributing to the development of new antifungal therapies. His studies on Cryptococcus species have provided crucial data for the medical mycology field, enhancing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for fungal infections.

Publications Top Notes:

📜 Proteomics reveals that the antifungal activity of fenbendazole against Cryptococcus neoformans requires protein kinases – International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents, 2024
📜 Screening of the Pandemic Response Box reveals an association between antifungal effects of MMV1593537 and the fungal cell wall – Microbiol Spectr, 2022
📜 A general analysis of the impact of international collaboration on scientific citations – Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciências, 2025
📜 Characterizing extracellular vesicles of human fungal pathogens – Nature Microbiology, 2025
📜 Introducing mGems, mBio’s new review type – mBio, 2025
📜 Effects of human immunoglobulin A on Cryptococcus neoformans morphology and gene expression – Microbiology Spectrum, 2025
📜 Preparation of biologically active fractions enriched with glucuronoxylomannan, the main antigen of the cryptococcal capsule – 2024 (Book Chapter)
📜 Extracellular Vesicles from Scedosporium apiospermum and fungal-host interactions – Journal of Fungi, 2024
📜 Funding for research on cryptococcal disease: an analysis based on the G-finder report – IMA Fungus, 2024
📜 The multiple frontiers in the study of fungal extracellular vesicles – Microbes and Infection, 2024
📜 A tribute to Professor Luiz R. Travassos: Lessons from a scientist (1938–2020) – Brazilian Journal of Microbiology, 2023

Conclusion:

Dr. Marcio L. Rodrigues is an exceptionally strong candidate for the Pioneer Researcher Award due to his groundbreaking discoveries, prolific publication record, leadership roles, and international recognition. His work on fungal extracellular vesicles and antifungal development has significantly shaped the field, making him a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Romain Villéger | Host-bacteria interactions | Cell Metabolism Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Assist. Prof. Dr. Romain Villéger | Host-bacteria interactions | Cell Metabolism Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Romain Villéger , Université de Poitiers , France

Dr. Romain Villéger is an Assistant Professor at the University of Poitiers, France, in the Ecology & Biology of Interactions (EBI) lab, within the Microorganisms-Hosts-Environments (MHE) team. With a Ph.D. from the University of Limoges, his work explores the intricate interactions between probiotics and host cells. He has held postdoctoral positions at the University of Bordeaux and the University of Texas Medical Branch, USA, focusing on microbiota-host relationships and metabolomics. Dr. Villéger’s research aims to unravel the role of bacterial interactions, particularly in the context of gastrointestinal health, microbiota, and cancer. His research has led to significant advancements in understanding microbial pathogenesis, including the effects of probiotics and endocrine disruptors on host cell metabolism. A dedicated researcher, he has contributed to numerous scientific publications and currently leads several high-impact projects on bacteria-host interactions.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Expertise in Metabolomics: Dr. Romain Villéger’s extensive work in metabolomics, especially in the context of host-bacteria interactions, positions him as a strong candidate for the Cell Metabolism Award. His research on bacterial influence on host cellular metabolism and gut microbiota interactions contributes significantly to the field of cellular metabolism.
  2. Innovative Research Contributions: His research, particularly on the metabolic changes during amoeba-Legionella interactions, showcases a novel approach to understanding microbial pathogenesis. By identifying metabolic vulnerabilities in pathogens, his work has the potential for therapeutic applications, thus addressing fundamental questions in cell metabolism.
  3. Multidisciplinary Approach: Dr. Villéger combines microbiology, immunology, and metabolomics, which enriches his contributions to cellular metabolism. His research is collaborative, evidenced by numerous projects across different institutions and fields, indicating a broad and innovative approach to the subject.
  4. Publications and Impact: He has a strong publication record, with numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals (19 publications), with high visibility in top-tier journals such as British Journal of Cancer, Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology, and Environmental Microbiology Reports. This demonstrates his influence and impact in the scientific community.
  5. Research Leadership: As the principal investigator of multiple projects, including those on the effects of phthalates on gut microbiota and cancer development, Dr. Villéger has demonstrated leadership in advancing scientific knowledge in areas that intersect with cell metabolism, host-microbe interactions, and metabolic changes in disease.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Clinical Translation: While his research shows deep insights into fundamental mechanisms, further work on translating these findings into practical clinical applications or therapeutic interventions would strengthen his impact in applied cellular metabolism.
  2. Interdisciplinary Team Development: While Dr. Villéger collaborates with many renowned researchers, fostering additional interdisciplinary partnerships could enrich his research by incorporating diverse techniques and perspectives from fields like drug development or personalized medicine.
  3. Expanding Metabolomic Toolkits: His research could benefit from exploring emerging and cutting-edge techniques in metabolomics, like single-cell analysis or multi-omics approaches, to gain deeper insights into cellular metabolism at the individual cell level.

Education:

Dr. Villéger completed his Ph.D. at the University of Limoges, where his thesis focused on the interactions between probiotics and host cells. His postdoctoral work spans institutions in France, the USA, and beyond, each contributing valuable insights into microbial-host dynamics and cellular microbiology. At the University of Bordeaux, he developed metabolomic approaches using GC/MS to study microbiota interactions. Later, at the University of Texas Medical Branch, he delved deeper into the effects of probiotics on intestinal homeostasis. Further postdoctoral experiences at the University of Clermont Auvergne involved examining the relationship between E. coli and colorectal cancer. Through these experiences, Dr. Villéger has gained expertise in microbiota research, cell biology, and metabolic analysis, providing a foundation for his ongoing work in the field. His education has provided a strong interdisciplinary framework, integrating microbiology, molecular biology, and toxicology into his research.

Experience:

Dr. Villéger has accumulated extensive experience in both academic and research settings. After earning his Ph.D. in 2014, he completed several postdoctoral positions, with notable work at the University of Bordeaux, where he pioneered metabolomics techniques for microbiota research. His tenure at the University of Texas Medical Branch expanded his focus to the effects of probiotics on intestinal homeostasis. Additionally, his work at the University of Clermont Auvergne involved exploring the connection between microbial interactions and cancer. Since joining the University of Poitiers in 2020 as an Assistant Professor, Dr. Villéger has led several research projects, including investigating the impact of endocrine disruptors on colorectal cancer development. He is also a leader in metabolomics and microbial pathogenesis, with a particular focus on bacteria-host interactions and microbiota modulation. His research has contributed to numerous publications and collaborations with institutions worldwide, showcasing his ability to manage complex research projects.

Research Focus:

Dr. Villéger’s research primarily focuses on bacteria-host interactions, gut microbiota, and cellular microbiology, with a special interest in how microbial populations affect host metabolism. His work integrates metabolomics, a powerful tool for studying metabolic processes, to better understand microbial influence on host cells. Dr. Villéger’s recent studies explore the role of oxidative stress in microbial infections, including Legionella pneumophila’s subversion of host immune defenses during infection. He has also investigated the impact of endocrine disruptors on microbial virulence, providing insights into the potential links between environmental factors and microbial pathogenesis. His contributions to understanding the microbiota-gut-brain axis, particularly in the context of colorectal cancer, emphasize the metabolic changes induced by bacterial interactions. Dr. Villéger’s research aims to identify biomarkers for disease and therapeutic interventions, with a broader goal of advancing precision medicine through a better understanding of the cellular and metabolic processes that underlie microbial-host dynamics.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Legionella pneumophila subverts the antioxidant defenses of its amoeba host Acanthamoeba castellanii 💥🦠
  2. Increased Activity of MAPKAPK2 within Mesenchymal Cells as a Target for Inflammation-Associated Fibrosis in Crohn’s Disease 🔬🧬
  3. Exposure to endocrine disruptors promotes biofilm formation and contributes to increased virulence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa 💧🦠
  4. Loss of alcohol dehydrogenase 1B in cancer-associated fibroblasts: contribution to the increase of tumor-promoting IL-6 in colon cancer 🧬🦠
  5. Effect of endocrine disruptors on bacterial virulence 🌿🧪
  6. Proteomic analysis of Acanthamoeba castellanii response to Legionella pneumophila infection 🔬🦠
  7. Disruption of retinol-mediated IL-6 expression in colon cancer-associated fibroblasts: new perspectives on the role of vitamin A metabolism 🧬🍊
  8. Microbiota medicine: towards clinical revolution 🌍💊
  9. Deletion of cystathionine-γ-lyase in bone marrow-derived cells promotes colitis-associated carcinogenesis 🔬🦠
  10. Prebiotic Isomaltooligosaccharide Provides an Advantageous Fitness to the Probiotic Bacillus subtilis CU1 🍞🦠

Conclusion:

Dr. Romain Villéger is a highly qualified candidate for the Cell Metabolism Award. His research contributions in understanding microbial influence on cellular metabolism and gut health, combined with his innovative approach to metabolomics, make him stand out in the field. His work bridges basic science and potential clinical applications, positioning him as a key figure in the ongoing exploration of microbial and metabolic influences on host physiology. With some expansion into clinical applications and further exploration of new metabolomics techniques, his contributions could significantly impact both scientific knowledge and medical practice.