Erna Van Niekerk | Spinal Cord Injury | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Erna Van Niekerk | Spinal Cord Injury | Best Researcher Award

University of California San Diego | United States

Dr. Erna A. Van Niekerk’s research focuses on advancing central nervous system (CNS) repair through the integration of molecular neuroscience, artificial intelligence, and translational neurobiology. Her work emphasizes uncovering molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive neural regeneration and developing innovative therapeutic strategies to promote recovery after CNS injury. With a strong background in physiology and neuroscience, she has contributed to understanding neuroplasticity, neural signaling pathways, and the molecular determinants of axonal growth and synaptic repair. Dr. Van Niekerk’s recent research explores computational and AI-based models to analyze large-scale neurobiological datasets, aiming to predict regenerative outcomes and optimize therapeutic targets. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges fundamental neuroscience with clinical applications, particularly in the development of bioengineered and data-driven interventions for neurodegenerative diseases and traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries. Through her academic and industry experience, she has contributed to translational research efforts aimed at improving functional outcomes following neural damage and enhancing the precision of therapeutic design in neuroregeneration.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus

Featured Publications:

Zahavi, E. E., Koppel, I., Kawaguchi, R., Oses-Prieto, J. A., Briner, A., Monavarfeshani, A., Dalla Costa, I., van Niekerk, E., Lee, J., Matoo, S., Hegarty, S., Donahue, R. J., Sahoo, P. K., Ben-Dor, S., Feldmesser, E., Ryvkin, J., Leshkowitz, D., Ben-Tov Perry, R., Cheng, Y., … Fainzilber, M. (2025). Repeat-element RNAs integrate a neuronal growth circuit. Cell. Advance online publication.

van Niekerk, E., Kawaguchi, R., Marques de Freria, C., Groeniger, K., Marchetto, M. C., Dupraz, S., Bradke, F., Geschwind, D. H., Gage, F. H., & Tuszynski, M. H. (2022). Methods for culturing adult CNS neurons reveal a CNS conditioning effect. Cell Reports Methods, 2, 100255. 5

de Freria, C. M., van Niekerk, E., Blesch, A., & Lu, P. (2022). Neural stem cells: Promoting axonal regeneration and spinal cord connectivity. Cells, 10(12), 3296.

Poplawski, G. H. D., Kawaguchi, R., van Niekerk, E., Lu, P., Mehta, N., Canete, P., Lie, R., Dragatsis, I., Meves, J. M., Zheng, B., Coppola, G., & Tuszynski, M. H. (2020). Injured adult neurons regress to an embryonic transcriptional growth state. Nature, 581(7806), 77–82.

Wang, W., van Niekerk, E. A., Zhang, Y., Du, L., Ji, X., Wang, S., & Baker, D. E. (2007). Extracellular stimuli specifically regulate localized levels of individual neuronal mRNAs. The Journal of Cell Biology, 178(6), 965–980.

van Niekerk, E. A., Willis, D. E., Chang, J. H., Reumann, K., Heise, T., & Twiss, J. L. (2007). Sumoylation in axons triggers retrograde transport of the RNA-binding protein La. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 104(31), 12913–12918. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.0705488104

Wang, W., van Niekerk, E., Willis, D. E., & Twiss, J. L. (2007). RNA transport and localized protein synthesis in neurological disorders and neural repair. Developmental Neurobiology, 67(9), 1166–1182.

van Niekerk, E. A., Tuszynski, M. H., Lu, P., & Dulin, J. N. (2016). Molecular and cellular mechanisms of axonal regeneration after spinal cord injury. Molecular & Cellular Proteomics, 15(2), 394–408.

Inoussa Ilboudo | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Inoussa Ilboudo | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Nazi Boni University | Burkina Faso

Dr. Inoussa Ilboudo is an expert in food safety and post-harvest management of plant production, currently pursuing a doctoral thesis at Nazi Boni University (UNB) with a focus on food safety. He holds a master’s degree in post-harvest management of plant production from Joseph Ki-Zerbo University (UJKZ) and a license in applied human nutrition from IST. His professional experience spans food quality control, contaminant analysis, and agricultural product safety. Dr. Ilboudo has received specialized training in food contaminant analysis with Laval University (Canada), mycotoxin quantification using LC-MS/MS in Morocco, heavy metal analysis by atomic absorption spectrometry, GC-MS application in Pretoria, and chromatographic methods at the University of Helsinki. As Head of the Contaminants and Food Additives Department, he has led initiatives such as the implementation of peanut standards for infant flours and contributed to national food safety projects like ReCMA-BF. A member of the American Chemical Society, Dr. Ilboudo is also a certified master trainer under the GIZ/MOVE program and teaches quality control of fruits and vegetables in academic institutions. His research interests center on the assessment of food contaminants, post-harvest loss reduction, and the development of safer food systems in West Africa.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications:

Ilboudo, I., Compaoré, H., Compaoré, I., Traoré, S. M., Dembélé, L. E., Nikièma, F., Lanterbecq, D., Sawadogo‐Lingani, H., & Kabré, E. (2025). Biocontrol of aflatoxigenic maize molds using Lactobacillus spp.-based formulations. Food Science & Nutrition. Advance online publication.

 

Ali Alahmari | Stem Cell Transplantation | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Ali Alahmari | Stem Cell Transplantation | Best Researcher Award

Kfshrc | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Ali Alahmari is a distinguished consultant in Acute Leukemia, Hematology, Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT), and Cellular Therapy at King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre. He earned his MBBS degree from King Saud University and completed his internship at King Khalid University Hospital. He has held a key consultant position, contributing extensively to the advancement of cellular therapy and bone marrow transplantation in Saudi Arabia. Dr. Alahmari has made significant academic contributions to the field, particularly in hemato-hepatology and sickle cell disease. His research has focused on novel transplant approaches, including haploidentical stem cell transplantation after liver transplantation and donor impact in severe aplastic anemia. He has co-authored over 22 scientific documents, with his work accumulating more than 629 citations and earning an h-index of 12, reflecting the depth and influence of his research. His notable publications include titles such as “Donor impact on allogeneic transplant outcomes with PTCy for severe aplastic anemia“ and “Haplo-stem cell transplant post liver transplantation to cure sickle cell disease with related liver dysfunction.” Dr. Alahmari’s ongoing efforts continue to shape clinical best practices and research frameworks for hematologic disorders and transplantation medicine in the region.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications:

  • “Author Correction: Haplo-stem cell transplant post liver transplantation to cure sickle cell disease with related liver dysfunction: a case series”

  • “Donor impact on allogeneic transplant outcomes with PTCy for severe aplastic anemia: a study of the SAAWP EBMT”

  • “Emerging need for a hepato-hematology program for patients with sickle cell disease in Saudi Arabia”

  • “Haplo-stem cell transplant post liver transplantation to cure sickle cell disease with related liver dysfunction: a case series”

  • “Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation in Sickle Cell Disease”

  • “Setting up a Chimeric Antigen Receptor T Cell Therapy Program: A Framework for Delivery from the Worldwide Network for Blood & Marrow Transplantation”

  • “Outcomes of human leukocyte antigen matched sibling transplant from consanguineous versus non-consanguineous parents, a single center experience”

Lin Jin | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Lin Jin | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Lin Jin, university of alabama at birmingham, United States

Dr. Lin Jin, PhD, is a leading biomedical scientist specializing in cancer biology and dermatological diseases. Currently affiliated with the Department of Dermatology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Dr. Jin has over 15 years of experience in translational research with a focus on epithelial cell biology, stemness, and inflammation. His research has significantly contributed to the understanding of hidradenitis suppurativa and colorectal cancer. Dr. Jin has held postdoctoral fellowships at both Vanderbilt University and UAB and earned his Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Jinan University, China. As a first and co-corresponding author in several high-impact journals, including PNAS, Nature Communications, and Cancer Research, Dr. Jin is known for his cutting-edge work in molecular mechanisms underlying oncogenesis and inflammatory skin diseases. His dedication to science, paired with strong collaborative leadership, has earned him recognition, including a Best Research Poster award at the Southeastern Consortium for Dermatology in 2023.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. High-Impact Publications:
    Dr. Jin has consistently published in top-tier journals including PNAS, Nature Communications, Cancer Research, and Gastroenterology. He has multiple first-author and co-corresponding author credits, which underscores his leadership in research.

  2. Translational Research Excellence:
    His work bridges basic science and clinical application, particularly in hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and cancer biology, contributing both to understanding molecular mechanisms and developing models for therapeutic screening.

  3. Interdisciplinary Expertise:
    Dr. Jin’s research spans stem cell biology, epigenetics, cancer signaling, and dermatological inflammation, showcasing a rare and valuable interdisciplinary scope.

  4. Award-Winning Research:
    He received the Best Research Poster Award at the 2023 Southeastern Consortium for Dermatology, a competitive and peer-reviewed platform.

  5. Consistent Productivity:
    Over 20 peer-reviewed publications in just over a decade reflect sustained scientific output, with several articles receiving high citation counts.

  6. Academic Mentorship and Collaboration:
    Active involvement in multi-author studies and mentorship roles indicate his collaborative nature and influence in team science.

  7. Recognition by Institution:
    His Nature Communications study was highlighted as a UAB Featured Discovery, which reflects institutional validation of research impact.

⚙️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Independent PI Track:
    While Dr. Jin has a robust publication record, formal documentation of his role as a Principal Investigator (PI) on grants or independent funding initiatives could further strengthen his candidacy.

  2. Broader Leadership Roles:
    Participation in grant review panels, editorial boards, or leadership within professional societies (e.g., SID committees) would demonstrate a broader academic influence.

  3. Expanded Recognition:
    Additional national or international awards and invited keynote lectures could enhance his external profile and leadership visibility in the field.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Lin Jin’s academic journey reflects a deep commitment to biomedical sciences. He earned his Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering in 2009 from Jinan University, Guangzhou, China, where he developed expertise in proteomics and molecular biology. Following his doctoral studies, he pursued two consecutive postdoctoral fellowships in Cancer Biology—first at Vanderbilt University (2009–2012), and then at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (2012–2013). These positions enabled him to gain advanced experience in translational research, stem cell biology, and oncogenic signaling pathways. Throughout his education, Dr. Jin focused on the molecular basis of cancer development, particularly exploring signaling pathways and gene regulation. His multidisciplinary training in engineering, biology, and cancer research laid the groundwork for his later success in dermatological research. This diverse academic background has empowered him to lead interdisciplinary projects that bridge basic science and clinical dermatology.

💼 Experience:

Dr. Jin has extensive research experience across prestigious institutions. His career began in China, where he contributed to proteomics and apoptosis research. He then advanced his expertise through postdoctoral roles at Vanderbilt University (2009–2012), working on stemness and epigenetics, and at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (2012–2013), focusing on epithelial biology and inflammation. Since then, he has served as a senior researcher in UAB’s Department of Dermatology, leading numerous projects on hidradenitis suppurativa, colorectal cancer, and stem cell signaling. Dr. Jin has authored over 20 high-impact publications and plays an active role in collaborative research, working with interdisciplinary teams including dermatologists, molecular biologists, and oncologists. His work has directly contributed to therapeutic advancements and better molecular understanding of chronic inflammatory diseases and cancer. As a co-corresponding author and lab leader, he has mentored junior researchers, making him not just a scientist but a key figure in translational medicine.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Lin Jin has received notable recognition for his scientific achievements. Most recently, he was honored with the Best Research Poster Award at the 46th Annual Southeastern Consortium for Dermatology in 2023, held in Birmingham, Alabama. This award recognized his pioneering work on epigenetic mechanisms in hidradenitis suppurativa. His work published in Nature Communications was featured as UAB’s Featured Discovery in 2021, underlining the impact of his research in stem cell biology. His contributions have also led to multiple publications in top-tier journals, a testament to his excellence and innovation. Additionally, Dr. Jin has been an active member of the Society for Investigative Dermatology (SID) since 2022, further cementing his role in the dermatological research community. These accolades highlight his consistent drive to advance science and address pressing clinical problems with molecular insight and translational application.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Jin’s research centers around molecular pathogenesis of inflammatory and neoplastic skin diseases, especially hidradenitis suppurativa, a chronic inflammatory condition. His work explores epigenetic regulation, epithelial stem cell dynamics, alternative splicing, and tumorigenesis. His innovative studies use ex vivo models, genomic profiling, and pathway analysis to unravel how dysregulated signaling in epithelial progenitor cells drives both inflammation and hyperproliferation. He has also contributed substantially to understanding cancer stemness and EMT, particularly in colorectal and lung cancers, emphasizing the role of STRAP and Notch/Wnt signaling. Dr. Jin is at the forefront of integrating bioengineering, stem cell biology, and dermatology to discover novel therapeutic strategies. His current projects involve mapping epigenetic switches, developing culture models for drug testing, and identifying biomarkers for skin inflammation and cancer. This integrative and translational approach makes his research highly relevant for both academic advancement and clinical impact.

📚 Publication Top Notes: 

  1. 📘 Epigenetic switch reshapes epithelial progenitor cell signatures and drives inflammatory pathogenesis in hidradenitis suppurativa – PNAS, 2023

  2. 🧬 Mechanism underlying follicular hyperproliferation and oncogenesis in hidradenitis suppurativa – iScience, 2023

  3. 💊 Combined Inhibition of BET Bromodomain and mTORC1/2 Provides Therapeutic Advantage for Rhabdomyosarcoma – Mol Carcinog, 2022

  4. 🧫 Ex Vivo Culture Models of Hidradenitis Suppurativa for Defining Molecular Pathogenesis and Treatment Efficacy – Inflammation, 2022

  5. 🧩 Advances in molecular pathogenesis of hidradenitis suppurativa: Dysregulated keratins and ECM signaling – Semin Cell Dev Biol, 2022

  6. 🧠 STRAP as a mediator of APC mutation-induced intestinal tumorigenesis via a feed-forward mechanism – Gastroenterology, 2021

  7. 🔄 STRAP regulates alternative splicing fidelity during mouse embryonic stem cell lineage commitment – Nat Commun, 2020

  8. 🧪 STRAP deficiency impairs stem cell commitment via retinoic acid dysregulation – Stem Cells, 2018

  9. 🔬 STRAP promotes stemness in colorectal cancer via Notch epigenetic regulation – Cancer Res, 2017

  10. 🧱 TGF-ß-induced Claudin-4 expression via c-Jun signaling in NSCLC – Cell Signal, 2016

📝 Conclusion:

Dr. Lin Jin exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding and impactful researcher. His research has meaningfully advanced the molecular understanding of both inflammatory dermatological disorders and oncogenesis. His strong publication record, interdisciplinary expertise, and recognition within the dermatology and cancer biology communities make him a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Raveendra Pilli | Tissue Engineering Regeneration | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Raveendra Pilli | Tissue Engineering Regeneration | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Raveendra Pilli , National Institute of technology-Silchar , India

Raveendra Pilli, a dedicated research scholar from Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Electronics and Communication Engineering at the National Institute of Technology Silchar, Assam. His research focuses on brain age prediction and early detection of neurological disorders using neuroimaging modalities. With extensive teaching experience, Raveendra has demonstrated excellence in course delivery, student mentoring, and research guidance. He has made significant contributions to his field through various high-impact publications, demonstrating a passion for integrating deep learning with brain health diagnostics. His goal is to bridge the gap between artificial intelligence and neuroscience, contributing to advancements in the early detection of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. His research continues to make strides in neuroimaging, deep learning, and medical diagnostics, earning recognition for its impact in both academia and healthcare.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

Raveendra Pilli has demonstrated remarkable academic and research achievements in the field of electronics and communication engineering, with a specific focus on brain age prediction and the early detection of neurological disorders through neuroimaging modalities. His extensive teaching experience at the undergraduate level and his current research in leveraging deep learning for brain health diagnostics highlight his strong commitment to both education and innovative research. He has published high-impact articles in renowned journals such as IEEE Transactions on Cognitive and Developmental Systems and Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence, with several more under review. His research is not only advancing the field of neuroimaging but also contributing significantly to healthcare, particularly in early diagnosis of diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Raveendra’s use of deep learning to develop diagnostic biomarkers exemplifies his technical expertise and his ability to integrate complex methodologies into real-world applications.

Areas for Improvement:

While Raveendra has made substantial strides in his research, further collaboration with clinical and healthcare professionals could enhance the practical implementation of his findings. Building interdisciplinary networks with medical experts might provide valuable insights into the clinical validation and adoption of his research. Additionally, expanding the geographical and academic outreach of his research through more international collaborations and conference presentations would help strengthen his visibility and impact within the global research community.

Education:

Raveendra Pilli holds a Ph.D. in Electronics and Communication Engineering from the National Institute of Technology Silchar (2021–Present). His thesis focuses on leveraging deep learning techniques to establish the brain age gap as a diagnostic biomarker for neurological disorders. With an outstanding 9 CGPA, his academic journey has been marked by deep commitment to research and excellence. He completed his M.Tech. in Electronics and Communication Engineering from JNTU Kakinada in 2011, securing 76%. Prior to that, he earned a B.Tech. in the same discipline from JNTU Hyderabad in 2007, achieving a 65% score. Raveendra also excelled in his secondary and higher secondary education, with notable academic achievements. He qualified for the UGC NET examination as an Assistant Professor in 2019, further cementing his academic credentials and commitment to advancing education in electronics and communication engineering.

Experience:

Raveendra Pilli’s professional experience spans over a decade, with roles as a Senior Research Fellow and Junior Research Fellow at the National Institute of Technology Silchar, Assam, since 2021. He has supported faculty in delivering courses such as Digital Signal Processing and Basic Electronics, alongside mentoring undergraduate research projects. Previously, he worked as an Assistant Professor at SRK College of Engineering and Technology, Vijayawada (2012–2021), where he taught courses in Networks Theory, Digital Signal Processing, and Image Processing. He actively mentored students, guiding them toward academic success and research accomplishments. His teaching style includes innovative methods such as active learning to improve student engagement and learning outcomes. Raveendra’s combined teaching and research roles reflect his dedication to both educating the next generation of engineers and advancing the frontiers of research in his field, particularly in brain health and deep learning applications.

Research Focus:

Raveendra Pilli’s research focuses on the intersection of electronics, communication, and neuroscience, particularly in brain age prediction and the early detection of neurological disorders through neuroimaging modalities. His work leverages deep learning techniques to analyze brain structures and biomarkers, aiming to identify critical indicators for diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. He is dedicated to developing advanced methods for brain age estimation using multimodal neuroimaging, such as MRI and PET scans, combined with innovative machine learning models like deep learning and kernel regression networks. His research seeks to create diagnostic biomarkers that can be used in clinical settings for early detection and diagnosis. Raveendra’s contributions aim to improve the accuracy of neurological disorder detection, offering the potential to detect these conditions at earlier, more treatable stages. His expertise in neuroimaging, machine learning, and computational models positions him as a leading researcher in this emerging area.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. “Association of white matter volume with brain age classification using deep learning network and region-wise analysis” 🧠
  2. “Kernel Ridge Regression-based Randomized Network for Brain Age Classification and Estimation” 🔬
  3. “Brain Age Estimation Using Universum Learning-Based Kernel Random Vector Functional Link Regression Network” 🤖
  4. “Unveiling Alzheimer’s Disease through Brain Age Estimation Using Multi-Kernel Regression Network and MRI” 🧳
  5. “Multimodal neuroimaging based Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis using evolutionary RVFL classifier” 🧩
  6. “Investigating White Matter Abnormalities Associated with Schizophrenia Using Deep Learning Model and Voxel-Based Morphometry” 🧑‍🔬
  7. “Brain Age Estimation of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Affected Individuals Using Self-Attention Based Convolutional Neural Network” 🧠
  8. “Brain Age Estimation Using Universum Learning-Based Kernel Random Vector Functional Link Regression Network” 📚

Conclusion:

Raveendra Pilli is an outstanding researcher with the potential to drive transformative change in the early detection and diagnosis of neurological disorders. His research has already made significant contributions to the application of deep learning in neuroimaging, and his future work promises to continue to push the boundaries of this emerging field. With his exceptional academic background, impressive publication record, and unwavering commitment to research, Raveendra is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award.

 

 

 

Elham Hasanzadeh | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh , Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences , Iran

Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh is an Iranian Assistant Professor specializing in Tissue Engineering. She is currently serving in the Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Science at Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences (MAZUMS), Sari, Iran. Dr. Hasanzadeh holds a Ph.D. in Tissue Engineering from Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), where she earned the 1st rank in her class. Her research focuses on advancing tissue engineering techniques for regenerative medicine, particularly for neural, cardiac, and soft tissue regeneration. Throughout her academic career, Dr. Hasanzadeh has collaborated on numerous innovative projects and published extensively in prestigious scientific journals. Her work includes the development of scaffolds, stem cell therapies, and biomaterials for various tissue regeneration applications. As a member of international professional networks, she is committed to advancing regenerative medicine globally.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Outstanding Academic Achievements:
    • Dr. Hasanzadeh has demonstrated exceptional academic performance throughout her education, with first rank in both her M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees from prestigious Iranian institutions, showing not only academic excellence but also dedication and deep expertise in her field.
    • Her Ph.D. thesis, titled “Fabrication of fibrin/polyurethane hydrogel scaffold seeded with endometrial stem cells differentiated into neural cells for spinal cord injury,” indicates significant contributions to cutting-edge research in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
  2. Extensive Research Output:
    • She has published numerous high-impact research papers in reputed journals such as International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, Regenerative Therapy, Life Sciences, and others, spanning multiple applications in tissue engineering (cardiac, neural, skin, spinal cord, etc.).
    • Her work addresses key challenges in regenerative medicine, such as scaffolding for cell growth, stem cell differentiation, and cell therapy for injury treatment, which is highly relevant and innovative.
  3. Recognition and Awards:
    • Talented Student recognition at the University of Tehran and Tehran University of Medical Sciences demonstrates her academic potential and research capabilities from an early stage.
    • First-place rankings in national entrance exams and the highest GPA in her Ph.D. cohort further validate her academic strength.
  4. Innovative Research Projects and Collaborations:
    • Dr. Hasanzadeh is involved in pioneering projects, such as 3D ovarian tissue engineering using 3D printing technology and the use of endometrial stem cells for sciatic nerve repair, which are highly innovative and promising in the medical field.
    • Her involvement in global collaborative projects, such as the use of MSCs in treating COVID-19 and regenerative medicine, adds to her recognition and the practical significance of her research.
  5. Professional Memberships and Certifications:
    • Being a member of renowned professional organizations such as ITERMS and USERN indicates her commitment to staying at the forefront of research and engaging in the global scientific community.
    • Her certifications in 3D cell culture, cell signaling, and scaffold fabrication further showcase her proficiency and versatility in various aspects of tissue engineering.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Research Scope:
    • While her focus on tissue engineering, particularly in soft tissue, neural tissue, and cardiovascular applications, is commendable, diversifying her research to cover other emerging areas in regenerative medicine could broaden her expertise and impact.
  2. Interdisciplinary Collaboration:
    • While she has worked on some interdisciplinary projects, further collaborations with fields like biomedical engineering, nanotechnology, or material science could offer more expansive research opportunities. These fields could complement her tissue engineering expertise, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in regenerative medicine.
  3. Public Outreach and Application of Research:
    • Although Dr. Hasanzadeh’s research is highly impactful, additional efforts in promoting and applying her findings in clinical settings or through public outreach could enhance the real-world application of her work.
  4. Expanding International Visibility:
    • While Dr. Hasanzadeh has an impressive research profile, increasing her visibility in global scientific networks and publishing in even more internationally recognized journals could amplify her recognition.

Education:

Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh earned her Ph.D. in Tissue Engineering (2015-2019) from the Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Science, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), with a GPA of 19.35/20, achieving 1st rank in her cohort. Her doctoral research focused on “Fabrication of fibrin/polyurethane hydrogel scaffold seeded with endometrial stem cells differentiated into neural cells for spinal cord injury,” earning a perfect score of 20/20. Prior to that, she completed her M.Sc. in Biomedical Engineering, specializing in Tissue Engineering (2011-2014), at the University of Tehran, with a GPA of 19.02/20. Her M.Sc. thesis focused on “Evaluation of continuous differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into endothelial cells under chemical stimulation and flow stress in a perfusion bioreactor.” She completed her B.Sc. in Biology at the University of Tehran, where she ranked 1st with a GPA of 17.56/20.

Experience:

Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh has a wealth of experience in the field of tissue engineering, with a focus on regenerative medicine, stem cell therapy, and scaffold development. She is an Assistant Professor at Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences (MAZUMS), where she conducts pioneering research on tissue engineering applications for soft, neural, and cardiovascular tissues. She has worked on multiple research projects, such as developing 3D-printed ovarian tissue engineering and using polyurethane-CNT/poly-L-lactic acid conduits for nerve regeneration. In addition, Dr. Hasanzadeh has contributed significantly to the understanding of stem cell-derived therapies, particularly in the context of COVID-19 treatment and spinal cord injury regeneration. Her extensive academic background and research activities have made her a key figure in the Iranian regenerative medicine community. Dr. Hasanzadeh’s international collaborations further highlight her commitment to advancing tissue engineering research globally.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh has received numerous awards throughout her academic career, recognizing her excellence in research and academic achievements. She was honored as a talented student at the University of Tehran (UT) and Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS) between 2007 and 2019. Dr. Hasanzadeh ranked 2nd nationwide in the Tissue Engineering Ph.D. entrance exam in Iran (2014). She was awarded 1st place for the highest GPA among all tissue engineering graduate students at TUMS (2019) and the highest GPA among all graduate students at UT (2011). Her research excellence has led to several prestigious publications in high-impact journals, and she continues to contribute to the advancement of tissue engineering in various medical fields. Dr. Hasanzadeh is also actively involved in professional organizations such as the Iranian Society for Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine (ITERMS) and the Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN).

Research Focus:

Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh’s research focuses on cutting-edge advancements in tissue engineering, with a particular interest in soft tissue, neural, and cardiovascular tissue regeneration. She explores the use of stem cells, biomaterials, and 3D scaffolding techniques to develop effective solutions for tissue repair and regeneration. Her innovative projects include designing tissue-engineered scaffolds for spinal cord injury, cardiac regeneration, and peripheral nerve repair. Dr. Hasanzadeh is also involved in the use of advanced technologies, such as 3D printing, electrospinning, and microfluidic systems, to fabricate complex tissue structures and promote cellular differentiation. Her work on the secretome of mesenchymal stem cells for COVID-19 treatment underscores her commitment to addressing current global health challenges. Dr. Hasanzadeh’s research has wide-reaching applications in regenerative medicine, aiming to improve the quality of life for patients with severe tissue damage or degenerative conditions.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. “Cardiac tissue regeneration by microfluidic generated cardiac cell-laden calcium alginate microgels and mesenchymal stem cell extracted exosomes on myocardial infarction model” 🫀
  2. “Applications of blood plasma derivatives for cutaneous wound healing: A mini-review of clinical studies” 🩸
  3. “Clinical trials of mesenchymal stem cells for the treatment of COVID-19” 💉
  4. “Collagen short nanofiber-embedded chondroitin sulfate–hyaluronic acid nanocomposite: A cartilage-mimicking in situ-forming hydrogel with fine-tuned properties” 💪
  5. “Preparation of bilayer tissue-engineered polyurethane/poly-L-lactic acid nerve conduits and their in vitro characterization for use in peripheral nerve regeneration” 🧠
  6. “Enhanced spinal cord regeneration by gelatin/alginate hydrogel scaffolds containing human endometrial stem cells and curcumin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles in rat” 🧑‍🔬
  7. “The role of Advanced technologies against COVID-19: Prevention, Detection, and treatments” 💻
  8. “Development of Tissue Engineering Scaffolds for Cancer Cell Cultures” 🧬
  9. “Injectable hydrogels in central nervous system: Unique and novel platforms for promoting extracellular matrix remodeling and tissue engineering” 💉
  10. “Enhanced sciatic nerve regeneration with fibrin scaffold containing human endometrial stem cells and insulin encapsulated chitosan particles: An in vivo study” 🦵

Conclusion:

Dr. Elham Hasanzadeh is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award based on her exceptional academic background, innovative research, and contributions to the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Her work on stem cells, scaffolding, and regenerative therapies for spinal cord injury, cardiac tissue, and other injuries has the potential to significantly impact medical treatment options.

Her academic excellence, extensive research output, high-impact collaborations, and leadership in cutting-edge projects make her a prime candidate for this award. With a few enhancements in interdisciplinary approaches, broader global exposure, and clinical translation of her research, she could further solidify her position as a leading researcher in her field.