Sibel Elif Gultekin | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gultekin | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gultekin , Gazi University Faculty of Dentistry , Turkey

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gültekin is an accomplished academic and researcher in Oral Pathology and Periodontology at Gazi University, Ankara. With dual DDS and Ph.D. degrees, she has led the Department of Oral Pathology for a decade and significantly contributed to understanding oral cancer, odontogenic lesions, and HPV-related pathologies. Her collaborative research with institutions such as UCSF and the University of Cologne has yielded numerous high-impact publications and advancements in oral diagnostics. She has authored two books and published over 96 articles in reputable journals. A prominent figure in national and international research boards, Dr. Gültekin has also played a pioneering role in establishing oral pathology as a specialty in Türkiye. Her work integrates molecular biology with clinical oral health, emphasizing innovation, collaboration, and translational science. Recognized globally, she continues to mentor emerging scholars while contributing to policy-making and curriculum development in dental education.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  • Extensive Research Portfolio: Over 96 peer-reviewed publications, with 40 in SCI journals, reflects consistent scholarly productivity and scientific depth.

  • Citation Impact: High citation indices (Google Scholar: 1,381, h-index: 17) demonstrate strong academic influence and relevance in the field of molecular oral pathology.

  • International Collaborations: Long-term, productive collaborations with prestigious institutions including the University of Cologne and UCSF underline global recognition and trust.

  • Focused Expertise: Specialization in oral epithelial dysplasia, HPV-associated oral/oropharyngeal cancers, and molecular mechanisms of odontogenic lesions aligns closely with cutting-edge cell biology and translational research.

  • Academic Leadership: Established the Department of Oral Pathology in Türkiye and mentored future scientists, contributing to both academic infrastructure and talent development.

  • Editorial and Advisory Roles: Active roles in scientific boards and journals underscore her influence in shaping academic discourse and peer-review standards.

🛠 Areas for Improvement:

  • Patent Development: Incorporating translational research into patentable diagnostics or therapeutics would enhance practical impact and innovation scoring.

  • Funding & Industry Engagement: Broader engagement with industry-funded projects and clinical trials could further expand her work’s translational potential and outreach.

  • Global Clinical Guidelines Influence: Participation in international committees that develop clinical practice guidelines would strengthen policy-level impact.

🎓 Education:

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gültekin pursued her initial dental training and later earned dual Ph.D. degrees in Periodontology and Oral Pathology, demonstrating a unique interdisciplinary depth. She completed her undergraduate and doctoral education at Gazi University, Faculty of Dentistry, Ankara. Her academic journey also included prestigious international research fellowships at the University of Cologne (Germany) and the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF, USA), where she focused on advanced molecular mechanisms in oral diseases, especially HPV-related oncogenesis and tissue regeneration. Her training reflects a blend of clinical excellence and a strong foundation in molecular biology and translational research. Through a blend of local and global academic exposure, Dr. Gültekin has acquired cutting-edge knowledge and technical expertise, which she continues to leverage in her teaching and research. Her international education and academic credentials have contributed to building strong scientific bridges between Türkiye and the global dental research community.

🧪 Professional Experience:

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gültekin has over 20 years of academic and research experience in dentistry, with a specialized focus on Oral Pathology and Periodontology. She currently serves as a full professor and head of the Oral Pathology Department at Gazi University Faculty of Dentistry, a position she has held for more than a decade. Dr. Gültekin has actively engaged in research collaborations with renowned institutions such as the University of Cologne and UCSF, significantly contributing to the fields of oral cancer and molecular diagnostics. She has completed over 50 research projects and advised numerous postgraduate theses. As a scientific advisor and board member for several national and international journals and associations, she plays a pivotal role in shaping academic and clinical standards. Her editorial appointments and leadership in symposia highlight her commitment to academic excellence and global research integration. She continues to lead innovation in oral health education and research policy.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Gültekin’s research centers on the molecular pathology of oral diseases, with particular emphasis on oral epithelial dysplasia, HPV-induced oral/oropharyngeal cancers, and the genetic underpinnings of odontogenic tumors and cysts. Her studies have investigated biomarkers such as p16, PDCD4, and VIM3, enabling improved early detection and classification of oral malignancies. She is also involved in exploring microsatellite instability, loss of heterozygosity, and B-RAF/MEK inhibition in the context of oral and maxillofacial tumors. A major dimension of her work includes periodontal tissue regeneration and molecular mechanisms of tooth development, which bridges clinical periodontology with developmental biology. Her research is translational, aiming to bridge bench-to-chairside pathways, and supports the development of personalized diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. With over 1,300 citations and active involvement in global research initiatives, her investigations have significantly influenced current understanding and clinical approaches in oral pathology.

📄 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 Microsatellite Instability and Loss of Heterozygosity as Prognostic Markers in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma – Genes, Chromosomes and Cancer (2024)

  2. 💊 Efficiency of B-RAF-/MEK-inhibitors in B-RAF mutated Ameloblastoma: Case report and review – Heliyon (2023)

  3. 🦷 Kişiselleştirilmiş Diş Hekimliği (Personalized Dentistry) – ADO Klinik Bilimler Dergisi (2023)

  4. 🧪 Apoptosis Related PDCD4: Promising Novel Biomarker for Early Detection of Oral Cancer – ADO Klinik Bilimler Dergisi (2022)

  5. 🧫 PD-L1 Expression and CD8+ Lymphocyte Infiltration Predict Outcome in Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma – IJMS (2020)

🔍 Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Sibel Elif Gültekin stands out as an exceptional and qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work in the field of oral pathology and molecular diagnostics not only contributes to advancing science but also bridges basic research with clinical applications. With a solid foundation in interdisciplinary science, international collaboration, and academic leadership, she exemplifies the values the award seeks to honor. Her achievements strongly align with the criteria of sustained research excellence, innovation, and global impact.

Jorge Saraiva | Cell Death Pathway | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr Jorge Saraiva | Cell Death Pathway | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr Jorge Saraiva , University of Aveiro , Portugal

Professor Jorge Manuel Alexandre Saraiva is an Associate Professor at the University of Aveiro, Portugal, specializing in high-pressure technologies. With a PhD in Biotechnology (Food Science and Engineering), his career spans over 27 years, during which he has become a leading figure in food safety and sustainability research. Professor Saraiva is renowned for his pioneering work in hyperbaric-storage (HS) and moderate-pressure pasteurization (MPP), which have revolutionized food storage and safety practices. He has contributed to over 334 publications, advancing both academic knowledge and practical applications in food science, biotechnology, and medical sterilization. His innovative research also extends to collaborations with global research institutions and industry leaders. Recognized as a Highly Cited Researcher in Agricultural Sciences (2021-2024), Professor Saraiva’s work has bridged the gap between academia and industry, emphasizing knowledge transfer for sustainable technological development.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Jorge Saraiva stands out as a highly accomplished researcher in the field of Food Science and Biotechnology, with specialized expertise in high-pressure technologies, including hyperbaric-storage and moderate-pressure pasteurization. He has demonstrated exceptional contributions to food safety, sustainability, and biotechnology, having led 13 research projects and collaborated in 20 others, including numerous industry-related projects. His citation index of 11,363 and h-index of 51, as well as recognition as a Highly Cited Researcher by Clarivate Analytics from 2021 to 2024, highlight his impactful research. Furthermore, his innovative work in hyperbaric storage and pasteurization technologies not only enhances food safety but also offers sustainable alternatives to conventional food preservation methods.

Areas for Improvement:

While Dr. Saraiva’s work in high-pressure technologies has had significant practical applications, there could be an increased focus on interdisciplinary collaborations in emerging fields such as personalized nutrition, where his technologies might have unexplored potential. Engaging more with new scientific innovations in other sectors like agriculture or medicine could further broaden his research impact.

Education 

Professor Jorge Saraiva completed his PhD in Biotechnology, specializing in Food Science and Engineering, at the Portuguese Catholic University. His educational journey has been rooted in research, with an emphasis on food safety and sustainable technologies. Over the years, he has built an extensive academic foundation, specializing in the application of high-pressure and non-thermal technologies for food preservation. His academic career at the University of Aveiro has been marked by his dedication to integrating advanced scientific research with practical solutions for the food industry. Throughout his career, Professor Saraiva has committed to the advancement of food safety and sustainability, focusing on innovative preservation methods that reduce energy consumption and maintain food quality. His expertise has made him a respected figure both nationally and internationally, frequently collaborating with esteemed universities and research institutions on cutting-edge projects that influence food science and biotechnology.

Experience 

With over 27 years of experience, Professor Jorge Saraiva has made significant contributions to the fields of food science, biotechnology, and high-pressure technology. As an Associate Professor in the Chemistry Department at the University of Aveiro, he has led 13 research projects and participated in 20 others. His research has been pivotal in the development of hyperbaric-storage (HS) and moderate-pressure pasteurization (MPP), technologies that have transformed food safety protocols and sustainability in the food industry. He has worked on over 24 industry-focused projects, helping companies implement non-thermal processing technologies. Additionally, his extensive work in consultancy and his leadership in collaborations with global research institutions, including universities in Portugal, Spain, and Italy, have fostered innovations that extend beyond food preservation to medical applications. Professor Saraiva’s contributions have earned him recognition as a Highly Cited Researcher (2021-2024), cementing his status as a leader in his field.

Awards and Honors 

Professor Jorge Saraiva has received numerous prestigious awards and recognitions for his impactful research in food science and biotechnology. Notably, he has been recognized as a Highly Cited Researcher in Agricultural Sciences from 2021 to 2024 by Clarivate Analytics, a testament to his significant contributions to scientific advancement. In 2024, he was honored with the Cooperation Award from the University of Aveiro for his exceptional efforts in knowledge transfer to the food industry. His work on high-pressure technologies, particularly in food safety and sustainability, has earned him global recognition. He has also received accolades for his leadership in scientific advisory roles, influencing policies and guiding research directions in food processing and biotechnology. Professor Saraiva’s dedication to fostering collaborations with industry and academic institutions worldwide has led to groundbreaking advancements that address contemporary challenges in food preservation, sustainability, and public health.

Research Focus 

Professor Jorge Saraiva’s research focus centers on the application of high-pressure technologies to enhance food safety, sustainability, and quality. His pioneering work in hyperbaric-storage (HS) has introduced new methods for food storage at room temperature, offering an energy-efficient alternative to traditional refrigeration. He has also advanced moderate-pressure pasteurization (MPP) techniques that maintain the sensory qualities of sensitive foods like meat and fish while ensuring microbial safety. These innovations have had a profound impact on food processing and preservation, addressing global challenges in food security and sustainability. Additionally, Professor Saraiva has made strides in biotechnology, exploring non-thermal methods for bioactive compound extraction and sterilization processes with medical applications, such as intraocular lenses. His research extends to microbiology, fermentation processes, and food science, aiming to improve both the safety and nutritional quality of food products. His interdisciplinary approach continues to push the boundaries of applied science.

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Effects of pressure-based technologies on food lipids oxidation 🥩💡
  2. Hyperbaric inactivation at 150–250 MPa of Alicyclobacillus acidoterrestris spores at room temperature and effect of innovative technologies pre-treatments 🔬💪
  3. Novel cold and thermally pasteurized cardoon-enriched functional smoothie formulations: A zero-waste manufacturing approach 🍹♻️
  4. Potential of electric and pressure-based techniques for the inactivation of microorganisms in fresh fish 🐟⚡
  5. Quality Changes on Cod Fish (Gadus morhua) during Desalting Process and Subsequent High-Pressure Pasteurization 🐟🧂
  6. Production of Opuntia ficus-indica fortified breads: A comparative analysis of wheat and gluten-free varieties and the impact on phytochemicals and antioxidant capacity 🍞🌵
  7. Nonthermal high-pressure microalgae extracts: A new source of natural ingredients for cosmetics 🌱💄
  8. Impact of pH and High-Pressure Pasteurization on the Germination and Development of Clostridium perfringens Spores under Hyperbaric Storage versus Refrigeration 💥🍽️
  9. Influence of High-Pressure Processing and Microbial Transglutaminase on the Properties of Pea Protein Isolates 🥣🌱
  10. The effects of pressure-based processing technologies on protein oxidation 🧬🍖

Conclusion:

Dr. Jorge Saraiva’s extensive experience, high-impact publications, patents, and notable collaborations make him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions to food science and biotechnology, particularly in nonthermal food preservation methods, have set new standards for sustainability and efficiency in food processing.