Aparna Gunjal | Microbiology and Environmental Science | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. Dr. Aparna Gunjal | Microbiology and Environmental Science | Research Excellence Award

Dept of Environmental Science, Dr. D.Y. Patil, Arts, Commerce & Science College, Pimpri, Pune, Maharashtra | India

Dr. Aparna B. Gunjal is an accomplished researcher and educator specializing in Industrial Microbiology, Microbiology, and Environmental Sciences. She earned her Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences from Savitribai Phule Pune University, focusing on microbial enrichment of agro-industrial by-products for soil conditioners, and completed postdoctoral research at Hong Kong Baptist University. Her academic contributions include extensive teaching at the postgraduate level, covering practical and theoretical courses in Environmental Science and Microbiology, with emphasis on industrial wastewater treatment and molecular biology. She has also undergone industry-oriented training at prominent dairy and distillery establishments, reflecting a strong integration of research, teaching, and applied microbiology.

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Featured Publications

Jiangang Zhang | Cell Metabolism | Research Excellence Award

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Dr. Jiangang Zhang | Cell Metabolism | Research Excellence Award

School of Basic Medical Sciences, Lanzhou University | China

Dr. Jiangang Zhang. A senior academic and medical professional with extensive leadership in pathology, forensic medicine, and laboratory sciences at Lanzhou University and its affiliated hospitals. Holds multiple directorial roles across pathology departments, forensic appraisal institutes, dental hospitals, and GLP laboratory centers, contributing significantly to clinical diagnostics, forensic evaluation, and translational research. Recognized nationally and provincially as an expert in forensic appraisal, including insurance-related forensic assessments, and plays a key role in expert review and governance bodies. Academic training spans clinical medicine, tissue engineering, and advanced biomedical research, with doctoral-level experience at Peking University. Research expertise includes obesity, nutrition, chronic diseases, skin tissue engineering, and pathology-related biomedical sciences. Has led and completed several major nationally funded research projects, including multiple grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and military medical research programs, reflecting sustained contributions to medical science, education, and forensic pathology.

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Ji Cao | Macrophage Biology | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. Ji Cao | Macrophage Biology | Research Excellence Award

Zhejiang University | China

Ji Cao, Ph.D., is a leading scholar in tumor pharmacology and anticancer drug discovery, internationally recognized as a World’s Top 2% Scientist (Stanford ranking, 2023) and a National Young Top Talent of China. His research integrates tumor pharmacology, chemical biology, and artificial intelligence–driven drug design, with major contributions to targeted protein degradation (PROTACs), ferroptosis regulation, MYC oncoprotein inhibition, and cancer immunotherapy. He has published over 59 peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals such as Cell Metabolism, Nature Communications, PNAS, and Science Advances, including multiple ESI highly cited papers, accumulating more than 4,000 citations with an h-index of 36. His work has translated into innovation through 18 Chinese patents and one international patent. He has led nationally and provincially funded projects exceeding ¥14 million and has received prestigious science and technology awards for outstanding contributions to biomedical research and translational pharmacology.

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Francesca Santilli | Signal Transduction Mechanisms | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. Francesca Santilli | Signal Transduction Mechanisms | Research Excellence Award

Department of Medicine and Aging Science, University of Chieti-Pescara “G. d’Annunzio”Chieti | Italy

Francesca Santilli, MD, PhD, is a leading physician-scientist whose work has substantially advanced the understanding of platelet biology, thrombo-inflammation, and cardio-metabolic disease. Her research focuses on mechanisms of platelet activation, interindividual variability in response to low-dose aspirin, and the interplay between inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic dysfunction. She has led major national and international projects, including studies on oxidative stress regulation in aspirin-treated diabetes, peripheral blood megakaryocyte maturation, and the effects of JAK inhibitors on thrombopoiesis in inflammatory disease. Her work has also contributed key insights into biomarkers—such as proteomic signatures, microRNAs, and extracellular vesicles—for cardiovascular and metabolic risk stratification. Additional research explores megakaryocyte biology, accelerated platelet turnover, and the impact of emerging therapies including GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors, and PCSK9 inhibitors. Through extensive collaborations across molecular medicine, proteomics, rheumatology, cardiology, and infectious diseases, she has established interdisciplinary frameworks linking platelet function to diabetes, obesity, MASLD, and vascular disease. With over 160 high-impact publications and leadership roles in several scientific networks, her research continues to inform clinical translation and therapeutic optimization in thrombosis, hemostasis, and metabolic disorders.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus

Featured Publications: 

antilli, F., Vazzana, N., Liani, R., Guagnano, M. T., & Davì, G. (2012). Platelet activation in obesity and metabolic syndrome. Obesity Reviews, 13(1), 27–42.

Santilli, F., Rocca, B., De Cristofaro, R., Lattanzio, S., Pietrangelo, L., Habib, A., & Patrono, C. (2009). Platelet cyclooxygenase inhibition by low-dose aspirin is not reflected consistently by platelet function assays: Implications for aspirin “resistance.” Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 53(8), 667–677.

Rocca, B., Santilli, F., Pitocco, D., Mucci, L., Petrucci, G., Vitacolonna, E., … & Patrono, C. (2012). The recovery of platelet cyclooxygenase activity explains interindividual variability in responsiveness to low-dose aspirin in patients with and without diabetes. Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis, 10(7), 1220–1230.

Caricato, A., Conti, G., Della Corte, F., Mancino, A., Santilli, F., Sandroni, C., … & Antonelli, M. (2005). Effects of PEEP on the intracranial system of patients with head injury and subarachnoid hemorrhage: The role of respiratory system compliance. Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, 58(3), 571–576.

Santilli, F., Vazzana, N., Bucciarelli, L. G., & Davì, G. (2009). Soluble forms of RAGE in human diseases: Clinical and therapeutical implications. Current Medicinal Chemistry, 16(8), 940–952.

Di Castelnuovo, A., Bonaccio, M., Costanzo, S., Gialluisi, A., Antinori, A., … Santilli, F., … & Iacoviello, L. (2020). Common cardiovascular risk factors and in-hospital mortality in 3,894 patients with COVID-19: Survival analysis and machine learning-based findings from the multicentre Italian study. Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases, 30(11), 1899–1913.

Vazzana, N., Santilli, F., Cuccurullo, C., & Davì, G. (2009). Soluble RAGE in internal medicine. Internal and Emergency Medicine, 4(5), 389–401.

Davì, G., Santilli, F., & Patrono, C. (2010). Nutraceuticals in diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Cardiovascular Therapeutics, 28(4), 216–226.

Chiarelli, F., Santilli, F., & Mohn, A. (2000). Role of growth factors in the development of diabetic complications. Hormone Research in Paediatrics, 53(2), 53–67.

Davì, G., Chiarelli, F., Santilli, F., Pomilio, M., Vigneri, S., Falco, A., … & Basili, S. (2003). Enhanced lipid peroxidation and platelet activation in the early phase of type 1 diabetes mellitus: Role of interleukin-6 and disease duration. Circulation, 107(25), 3199–3203.

Manigrasso, M. R., Ferroni, P., Santilli, F., Taraborelli, T., Guagnano, M. T., … & Davì, G. (2005). Association between circulating adiponectin and interleukin-10 levels in android obesity: Effects of weight loss. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 90(10), 5876–5879.

Ahmed Sobhy Abdelrahim Abdallah Darwish | Cell Biology | Research Excellence Award

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Dr. Ahmed Sobhy Abdelrahim Abdallah Darwish | Cell Biology | Research Excellence Award

Zagazig University & Egyptian International Pharmaceutical Industries Company, EIPICO | Egypt

Ahmed Sobhy Abdelrahim Abdallah Darwish is a highly accomplished analytical chemist with extensive expertise in analytical methodologies and chemical research. His academic journey demonstrates a consistent commitment to scientific rigor, progressing from a strong foundation in chemistry and physics to advanced studies in analytical chemistry. He has completed a diploma in analytical chemistry with distinction, a pre-master qualification with outstanding performance, and a master’s degree in analytical chemistry. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in the same field, his research is centered on the development, optimization, and validation of analytical techniques for pharmaceutical and industrial applications. His work emphasizes precision, reliability, and innovation in chemical analysis, including method development for complex matrices, quality control protocols, and instrumental analysis techniques. His contributions aim to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of laboratory workflows, ensuring robust and reproducible results in pharmaceutical and chemical research. Additionally, he demonstrates proficiency in data interpretation, statistical analysis, and experimental design, contributing to high-quality scientific outcomes. His ongoing research reflects a commitment to advancing analytical chemistry through both theoretical insights and practical applications, positioning him as a significant contributor to the field and a strong candidate for recognition in research excellence.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications: 

Ma, J. K., Darwish, A. S., Al Ali, A., Abdelazim, A. M., Darwish, W. S., Li, X., & Huang, X. C. (2025). An ecologically sound HPLC determination of LEVOMENOL in topical therapies using a certified reference material with green properties. Results in Chemistry, 13, 102338.

Alenezi, S. S., Gouda, A. A., El Sheikh, R., Badahdah, N. A., Alzuhiri, M. E., & others. (2025). Environmental sustainability profiles assessment of HPLC stability indicating method for quantitation of piracetam and vincamine in pharmaceutical medications. Talanta Open, 11, 100407.

Darwish, A. S., Zaki, M. S. A., Salih, A. G. K. A., Ellatif, M. A., Patel, A. A., Mallick, A. K., & others. (2025). A simple eco‐friendly stability‐indicating HPLC method for determination of NETILMICIN in bulk and ophthalmic solution. Biomedical Chromatography, 39(8), e70152.

Gouda, A. A., Elsheikh, R., Eldien, A. S., & Darwish, A. S. (2025). Development and validation of stability indicating RP-HPLC method for simultaneous determination of simvastatin and fenofibrate in bulk and dosage form. Bulletin of Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, 2025(3), 134–146.

Huang, X. C., Darwish, A. S., Darwish, W. S., Chen, R. M., & Ma, J. K. (2025). Green rapid HPLC method for testing retinol and tocopherol in ophthalmic gels. Talanta Open, 100538.

Darwish, A. S., Gouda, A. A., & Eldien, A. S. (2025). Simple validated approach to quantify valsartan and sacubitril in medications using liquid chromatography. Bulletin of Faculty of Science, Zagazig University, 2025(3), 216–229.

Darwish, W. S. D., Zaki, M. S. A., Salih, A. G. K. A., & others. (2025). Developing a sensitive, ecological, and economic HPLC method for the concurrent quantification of KOLCHICINE and KHELLIN, used in bulk and sachet pharmaceuticals. Microchemical Journal, 114716.

Ma, J. K., Chen, X. Y., Zhang, N., Darwish, A. S., Gouda, A. A., El Sheikh, R., & others. (2025). A straightforward HPLC approach to testing butylated hydroxytoluene, an antioxidant, in pure and topical anti-burn gels; evaluation of greenness, blueness, and whiteness grades. Talanta Open, 100565.

Huang, X. C., Darwish, A. S., Darwish, W. S., Zaki, M. S. A., Lin, Y. T., Liang, N. L., & Ma, J. K. (2025). Ecologically conscious profiles assessments for economic, and concurrent HPLC detection of chlordiazepoxide and clidinium bromide in bulk and tablets solid dosage form. Results in Chemistry, 1, 102739.

Mohamed Dammak | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Mohamed Dammak | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Academic Researcher Award

Faculty of Sciences of Sfax | Tunisia

Professor Mohamed Dammak is a distinguished researcher in the field of chemistry, recognized for his significant contributions to materials science, solid-state chemistry, and nanomaterials. His research primarily focuses on the synthesis, structural characterization, and optical properties of functional materials, including luminescent phosphors, glass ceramics, and doped oxide systems. He has extensively investigated rare-earth-doped materials for photonic and optoelectronic applications, contributing valuable insights into energy transfer mechanisms and material stability under various conditions. Professor Dammak’s scholarly output includes numerous publications in high-impact journals indexed in SCI and Scopus, reflecting his consistent pursuit of scientific excellence. With over 1,100 citations and an h-index of 17, his work has had a measurable influence on contemporary research in materials chemistry. He has also participated in national and international research collaborations, enhancing cross-disciplinary approaches to the development of advanced materials with optical and structural functionalities. Through his academic leadership and commitment to innovation, Professor Dammak continues to advance the understanding and application of inorganic and functional materials, bridging the gap between fundamental research and technological development in the field of chemistry.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications:

Dammak, M.*, Abdelmoula, N., Cheikhrouhou-Koubaa, W., & Cheikhrouhou, A. (2021). Short-range magnetic behavior in manganites La₀.₉₃K₀.₀₇Mn₁₋ₓCuₓO₃ (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.09) above the Curie temperature. Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics, 54(32), 325002. https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6463/ac015c

 

Nestor Garcia | Cellular Stress Response | Best Academic Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Nestor Garcia | Cellular Stress Response | Best Academic Researcher Award

CONICET | Argentina

Dr. Néstor Horacio García, MD, PhD, is a physician-scientist specializing in nephrology and vascular research with a strong focus on renal physiology, hypertension, and phosphate homeostasis. He earned his medical and doctoral degrees from the National University of Córdoba, complemented by advanced research training at the Henry Ford Hospital in the United States, where he investigated mechanisms related to hypertension and vascular regulation. His postdoctoral fellowship at the Mayo Foundation in Rochester, Minnesota, further deepened his expertise in phosphate metabolism and kidney function. Dr. García has served as a Research Clinical Associate in the Nephrology Department at Sanatorium Mayo, Córdoba, where he has acted as Principal Investigator for multiple pharmaceutical protocols and clinical studies. He has also contributed to Inspiranox Therapeutics Corporation as a medical scientist and clinical research consultant, engaging in translational and therapeutic innovation. His research explores the pathophysiology of kidney disease, the molecular regulation of blood pressure, and protective mechanisms against diabetic renal dysfunction. Recognized nationally and internationally, Dr. García has received multiple awards for excellence in basic nephrology research, including honors from the Argentine Society of Hypertension and the Latin American Society of Nephrology and Hypertension (SLANH).

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications:

García, N. H. (2021). An intensive follow-up in subjects with cardiometabolic high-risk. Nutrition, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Diseases.

García, N. H. (2021). Effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on stroke and atrial fibrillation in diabetic kidney disease. Stroke, 52(5), e125–e132.

García, N. H. (2020). Monosialoganglioside GM1 reduces toxicity of Ptx and increases anti-metastatic effect in a murine mammary cancer model. Scientific Reports, 10(1), 10645.

García, N. H. (2020). Ibuprofen, a traditional drug that may impact the course of COVID-19: New effective formulation in nebulizable solution. Medical Hypotheses, 144, 110079.

García, N. H. (2020). Eicosapentaenoic acid prevents salt sensitivity in diabetic rats and decreases oxidative stress. Nutrition, 79–80, 110644.

Willa Hsueh | Immunometabolism | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Willa Hsueh | Immunometabolism | Best Researcher Award

The Ohio State University | United States

Dr. Willa Hsueh is a leading researcher in endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism, with a career spanning several decades of pioneering contributions to hormone regulation and metabolic disease. Her early research provided key insights into renin biochemistry and aldosterone metabolism, particularly focusing on inactive “big renin” forms and their activation mechanisms in normal and pathological conditions such as diabetic nephropathy. Dr. Hsueh’s investigations have significantly advanced the understanding of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) and its role in blood pressure regulation, sodium balance, and endocrine disorders. Her studies explored adrenal physiology, steroid metabolism, and hormonal responses to physiological and pharmacological stimuli, laying the groundwork for later research on cardiovascular and metabolic dysfunctions in diabetes. Through her interdisciplinary approach combining endocrinology, nephrology, and metabolism, she has elucidated biochemical pathways linking hormonal imbalances to metabolic diseases. Dr. Hsueh continues to lead impactful research in diabetes and metabolic regulation, contributing to translational advancements that bridge molecular mechanisms with clinical applications for improved patient outcomes in endocrine and metabolic disorders.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications:

Hsueh, W. A., Boonjaren, S., Stein, J., Baehler, H. R., Osgood, R. W., Cohen, S., Yashon, D., & Ferris, T. (1974). Effect of plasma sodium concentration on diluting segment sodium reabsorption. Kidney International, 5(1), 1–11.

Johnson, K. R., Hsueh, W. A., Glusman, S. M., & Arnett, F. C. (1976). Fibrous myopathy: A rheumatic complication of drug abuse. Arthritis & Rheumatism, 19(5), 923–926.

Hsueh, W. A., & Hsu, T. H. (1978). Thyrotoxicosis in a patient with secondary hypothyroidism. Southern Medical Journal, 71(9), 1174–1177.

Hsueh, W. A., Luetscher, J. A., Carlson, E., & Grislis, G. (1978). Big renin in plasma of healthy subjects on high-sodium intake. The Lancet, 1(8077), 1281–1284.

Hsueh, W. A., Hsu, T. H., & Federman, D. D. (1978). Endocrine features of Klinefelter’s syndrome. Medicine, 57(5), 447–461.

Hsueh, W. A., Luetscher, J. A., Carlson, E., Grislis, G., Elbaum, D., & Chavarri, M. (1978). A comparison of cold and acid activation of big renin and of inactive renin in normal plasma. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, 47(4), 792–799.

Muhammad Junaid Anwar | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Muhammad Junaid Anwar | Immunology Cellular Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Bahauddin Zakariya Univeristy |Pakistan

Dr. Muhammad Junaid Anwar is a rising scholar in Food Science & Technology whose work spans bioactive compounds, dairy protein‐based nanoencapsulation, food safety, and nutraceutical applications. According to Google Scholar, he has authored over 20 peer-reviewed articles and accumulated more than 270 citations to date, reflecting an h-index of 8.  His research includes investigations into olive oil polyphenols for cancer prevention, development of casein-based nanoencapsulation for managing cow’s milk allergy, optimization of ultrasonication pre-treatments for microbial reduction in fresh produce, and exploration of isoflavones and resveratrol in anticancer contexts. Through a blend of experimental and review work, he advances both the applied and mechanistic understanding of functional foods and health-promoting ingredients.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications:

Anwar, M. J., Anwar, M. H., Imran, M., Noman, A. M., Hussain, M., Raza, H., … & Selim, S. (2025). Olive oil polyphenols: A promising approach for cancer prevention and therapy. Food Science & Nutrition, 13(9), e70976.

Anwar, M. J., Hameed, A., Khan, M. U., Mazhar, A., & Manzoor, H. M. I. (2025). Development and exploration of casein-based nano-encapsulation of mangiferin for cow milk allergy management and immunomodulation. Food Bioscience, 66, 106278.

Javed, M. S., Nawaz, H., Filza, F., Anwar, M. J., Shah, F. U. H., Ali, U., … & Nayik, G. A. (2025). Optimization of calcium chloride and ultrasonication pre-treatment to mitigate the microbial load on fresh carrots using response surface methodology. Ultrasonics Sonochemistry, 116, 107311.

Ul Hassan, M. H., Shahbaz, M., Imran, M., Momal, U., Naeem, H., Mujtaba, A., Hussain, M., Anwar, M. J., Alsagaby, S. A., Al Abdulmonem, W., Yehuala, T. F., & Mostafa, E. M. (2025). Isoflavones: Promising natural agent for cancer prevention and treatment. Food Science & Nutrition, 13(3), e70091.

Hameed, A., Ashraf, F., Anwar, M. J., Amjad, A., Hussain, M., Imran, M., … & Jbawi, E. A. (2024). α-Amylase enzyme inhibition relevant to type II diabetes by using functional yogurt with Cinnamomum verum and Stevia rebaudiana. Food and Agricultural Immunology, 35(1), 2389091.

Khalid, M. U., Sultan, M. T., Khan, W. A., Israr, M., Zafar, N., Noman, A. M., Imtiaz, S., Younis, M., Anwar, M. J., Nayyar, A., Orabi, A. A., & Khalil, N. A. (2024). Nutritional and physico-chemical profiling of Tribulus terristris and its nutraceuticals application. Journal of Population Therapeutics & Clinical Pharmacology, 31(9), 1230–1241.

Faisal, Z., Irfan, R., Akram, N., Manzoor, H. M. I., Aabdi, M. A., Anwar, M. J., … & Desta, D. T. (2024). The multifaceted potential of fenugreek seeds: From health benefits to food and nanotechnology applications. Food Science & Nutrition, 12(4), 2294–2310.

Javed, M. S., Alvi, S. Q., Amjad, A., Sardar, H., Anwar, M. J., Javid, A., … & AbdElgawad, H. (2024). Protein extracted from Moringa oleifera Lam. leaves: Bio-evaluation and characterization as suitable plant-based meat-protein alternative. Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, 146, 105536.

Anwar, M. J., Altaf, A., Imran, M., Amir, M., Alsagaby, S. A., Al Abdulmonem, W., Mujtaba, A., El-Ghorab, A. H., Ghoneim, M. M., Hussain, M., Al Jbawi, E., Shaker, M. E., & Abdelgawad, M. A. (2023). Anti-cancer perspectives of resveratrol: A comprehensive review. Food and Agricultural Immunology, 34(1).

Hameed, A., Anwar, M. J., Khan, M. I., Tarar, O. M., Ali, S. W., Faraz, A., … & Kashif, A. S. (2023). Assessing the impact of camel breed and their grazing habits on the nutritional profile of milk. Pakistan Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 60(2).

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.