Wageha AWad | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Wageha AWad | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Wageha AWad , University of Veterinary Medicine , Austria

Ass. Prof. Dr. Wageha Awad is a renowned Austrian scientist specializing in poultry and intestinal physiology. Based at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna, she brings decades of hands-on experience in veterinary sciences, with a sharp focus on poultry gut health, host-pathogen interactions, and mycotoxin research. Her academic journey spans multiple prestigious institutions across Europe, including postdoctoral work at the Free University of Berlin under the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. Dr. Awad’s prolific career includes numerous publications in high-impact journals and memberships in key scientific societies. She actively reviews for over 25 journals and several international funding agencies, reflecting her global recognition. As a mentor and academic advisor, she supports PhD candidates worldwide. Her research is highly cited, indicating a strong impact in animal physiology and nutrition. Dr. Awad exemplifies excellence in scientific research and academic leadership, making her an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Academic and Research Experience
    Dr. Awad brings over two decades of high-level experience in veterinary sciences, specifically focused on poultry gut health, intestinal physiology, and mycotoxin research. Her academic journey through top-tier institutions such as Vetmeduni Vienna and the Free University of Berlin reflects strong international credentials.

  2. Highly Cited Publications
    With numerous peer-reviewed articles, several with citation counts exceeding 300, her work demonstrates a significant scientific impact. Topics such as tight junction modulation, probiotic effects, and mycotoxin detoxification are not only highly relevant but also influential in advancing animal health science.

  3. Research Leadership & Recognition
    Awarded multiple prestigious fellowships and international research prizes, including Alexander von Humboldt Awards and the Honorary Professorship (2024) at the University of Lahore, she is globally recognized as a leader in her field.

  4. Global Engagement & Peer Review Contributions
    She is an editorial board member of four international journals, reviewer for 25+ journals and international grant agencies (EU, Hong Kong, Poland, etc.), showcasing her authority and trustworthiness in evaluating high-impact research.

  5. Educational Mentorship
    Serving on PhD advisory boards across institutions in Pakistan and Austria, she actively contributes to nurturing the next generation of scientists.

⚖️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Wider Dissemination in Interdisciplinary Forums
    While her publications are strong within veterinary and animal science domains, expanding outreach to interdisciplinary audiences (e.g., One Health, bioinformatics) could further increase her visibility and cross-field impact.

  2. Leadership in International Consortia or Projects
    While she participates extensively in research, leading or coordinating large-scale EU/international consortia could further establish her as a strategic scientific leader.

  3. Enhanced Media/Science Communication
    With such influential research, increasing her presence in public science communication platforms, webinars, or educational series could boost her visibility in public and policymaking arenas.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Wageha Awad began her scientific career with a PhD fellowship from the Österreichische Orient-Gesellschaft (2004–2007), undertaking doctoral studies at the University of Veterinary Medicine, Vienna. Her research focused on animal nutrition, leading to significant insights into feed safety and poultry gut health. During her academic development, she pursued advanced postdoctoral studies at the Free University of Berlin, supported by the prestigious Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, where she deepened her expertise in veterinary physiology. She further contributed to the field through a postdoctoral stint at the Institute of Physiology, Pathophysiology, and Biophysics in Vienna. Dr. Awad’s educational background is grounded in rigorous training in both basic and applied sciences, especially in gastrointestinal physiology, feed toxicology, and animal welfare. Her strong academic foundation across leading European institutions has played a pivotal role in shaping her multifaceted research approach in veterinary science.

💼 Professional Experience:

Dr. Awad currently holds the position of Assistant Professor at the Clinic for Poultry and Fish Medicine, Vetmeduni Vienna (since 2019). Prior to this, she served as a Senior Postdoctoral Associate at the same clinic for nearly a decade. Her earlier roles include a postdoctoral researcher at the Institute of Physiology and as an Alexander von Humboldt Fellow at the Free University of Berlin. Her academic journey began as a Scientific Assistant at the Institute of Animal Nutrition, Vetmeduni Vienna. Dr. Awad has actively participated in international research collaborations and has held advisory roles on PhD committees in Pakistan. Her dynamic career reflects a blend of research, teaching, and international academic engagement. Her work has contributed to understanding gut microbiota, dietary toxins, and poultry nutrition, earning her high regard in veterinary circles. Her scientific output and mentorship continue to influence veterinary physiology and animal health globally.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Wageha Awad has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing her scientific excellence. In 2024, she was appointed Honorary Professor at the University of Lahore, Pakistan. She has earned multiple research awards, including the Armin Tschermak von Seysenegg Award (2018), Science Award for Third-party Funds (2017), and two Alexander von Humboldt Research Awards (2007–2009, 2014). Her early research achievements were recognized by the Brigitte Gedek Award for Mycotoxin Research (2008), and she received the H. Wilhelm Schaumann Stiftung Promotion Award in 2013. She was also honored with the Best Poster Award at the 8th International Conference of the European Society of Veterinary and Comparative Nutrition in 2004. These accolades underscore her impactful contributions to veterinary medicine, particularly in gut health, feed additives, and toxicology. Her international recognition and consistent track record of scientific excellence make her a strong nominee for the Best Researcher Award.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Awad’s research centers on intestinal physiology and gut health in poultry, with a particular focus on the structure and function of the epithelial barrier and host-pathogen interactions. Her studies explore the effects of enteric pathogens like Campylobacter, Salmonella, and E. coli on gut integrity and immune responses. She investigates the influence of feed additives, mycotoxins, probiotics, and synbiotics on animal health and performance. Her work also examines microbiota modulation and the physiological mechanisms behind nutrient absorption and barrier function. With over a decade of laboratory and field experience, her innovative studies have led to new strategies for enhancing gut health and preventing disease in poultry through nutrition-based approaches. Her multidisciplinary research integrates veterinary physiology, microbiology, immunology, and nutrition—contributing to the development of safer, more effective feeding practices. Dr. Awad’s contributions are widely cited, making her a leading voice in animal health and poultry science research.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

📖 Effects of dietary inclusion of probiotic and synbiotic on broiler growth and intestinal histomorphology
📖 Indigenous bacteria and bacterial metabolic products in the gastrointestinal tract of broilers
📖 Enteric pathogens and their disruption of the intestinal barrier via tight junction alteration in chickens
📖 Probiotic addition to broiler diets contaminated with deoxynivalenol: performance and villi histology
📖 Intestinal structure and function in broilers fed synbiotics (Enterococcus faecium & oligosaccharides)
📖 Impacts of feed contaminant deoxynivalenol on poultry and swine intestines
📖 Strategies for detoxifying deoxynivalenol in animal feed via microbial biodegradation
📖 Efficacy of an avian-specific probiotic in reducing Campylobacter jejuni colonization in broilers
📖 Age-related gut microbiome shifts in broilers and effects of Campylobacter jejuni infection
📖 Campylobacter infection modulates intestinal barrier function in chickens

📝 Conclusion:

Ass. Prof. Dr. Wageha Awad is an exceptional and highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her academic excellence, publication impact, and global collaborations reflect an accomplished researcher who has made significant contributions to poultry physiology, gut health, and food safety. She has built a sustainable and far-reaching research portfolio, inspiring peers and young researchers alike. With continued focus on global leadership roles and interdisciplinary collaborations, she is poised to further elevate her impact in veterinary sciences and beyond.

Makoto Matsubayashi | Parasitology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Makoto Matsubayashi | Parasitology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Makoto Matsubayashi , Osaka Metropolitan University , Japan

Makoto Matsubayashi, D.V.M., Ph.D., is a distinguished Japanese academic and researcher born on October 23, 1973, in Osaka, Japan. He currently serves as a Professor in the Department of Veterinary Immunology at Osaka Metropolitan University. He has a long-standing career in veterinary medical sciences, specializing in parasitology and immunology. Dr. Matsubayashi has made significant contributions to understanding parasitic diseases and their impacts on veterinary science. He has authored multiple research papers in internationally recognized journals and has collaborated on studies focusing on zoonotic diseases, parasitic infections, and immunological responses. His dedication to advancing veterinary health science through research and teaching has earned him recognition in the academic community.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Makoto Matsubayashi has established himself as a leading expert in the fields of parasitology and immunology. His work is instrumental in understanding parasitic infections, zoonotic diseases, and the interactions between parasites and their hosts. His research has contributed significantly to improving diagnostic methods, treatment options, and disease prevention strategies, particularly for veterinary and human health. His vast experience spans academic, research, and applied sciences, leading to numerous publications in well-regarded international journals. Dr. Matsubayashi’s interdisciplinary approach, which bridges parasitology with immunology, positions him as a crucial figure in advancing veterinary and medical research. His collaborations with international researchers further enhance the global impact of his work.

Areas for Improvement:

While Dr. Matsubayashi has made notable contributions to parasitology, there is an opportunity to further expand the focus of his research on emerging global parasitic diseases. Increasing interdisciplinary collaborations with other fields, such as microbiology or global health, could amplify the societal impact of his work. Additionally, engaging in more public outreach or educational programs could further raise awareness about parasitic diseases and their prevention.

Education:

Dr. Matsubayashi completed his undergraduate studies in Veterinary Medical Sciences at Osaka Prefecture University, where he earned his D.V.M. degree in March 1999. He later pursued his Doctor of Philosophy in Veterinary Medical Sciences, receiving his Ph.D. from Osaka Prefecture University in August 2009. His educational journey has been marked by a commitment to advancing veterinary science, specifically in the fields of parasitology and immunology. Throughout his academic career, Dr. Matsubayashi has continuously enhanced his expertise and contributed to the broader scientific community. His deep understanding of parasitic diseases has led him to conduct significant research that bridges veterinary medicine and immunological research, impacting the health of both animals and humans.

Experience:

Dr. Matsubayashi has an extensive career in academia and research. After completing his veterinary studies, he served as an Assistant Professor at Osaka Joshigakuen Junior College from 1999 to 2005, later advancing to Lecturer and Associate Professor roles. In 2010, he transitioned to a Senior Researcher position at the National Institute of Animal Health, where he focused on parasitology until 2015. From 2015 to 2020, he worked as an Associate Professor at Osaka Prefecture University’s Faculty of Bioenvironmental Sciences. Since 2020, he has held the position of Professor in the Department of Veterinary Immunology at Osaka Metropolitan University. His experience spans both teaching and advanced research, with a focus on parasitic diseases and their immunological interactions. Dr. Matsubayashi has collaborated internationally and continues to contribute to the field of veterinary immunology through innovative research.

Research Focus:

Dr. Matsubayashi’s research primarily focuses on parasitology and immunology, with an emphasis on understanding parasitic infections and their effects on animal health. His work investigates the complex relationships between parasites and their hosts, particularly in relation to zoonotic diseases that can be transmitted between animals and humans. He is dedicated to exploring new methods of disease control and prevention, including the development of treatments for parasitic diseases, the efficacy of natural compounds, and immunological responses to infections. His research spans various parasitic species, including Eimeria, Cryptosporidium, and Trypanosoma. Dr. Matsubayashi’s studies contribute significantly to improving veterinary health practices, disease detection, and the understanding of host-parasite interactions, ultimately advancing both veterinary and human health sciences.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. A novel chemokine binding protein 1-like gene is vital for the blood pool development and engorgement of the hard tick Haemaphysalis longicornis 🦠
  2. Anticoccidial activities of Piper betle L essential oil on Eimeria tenella oocysts 🌿
  3. Potential Development Ability of Residual Zoites, a Second-Generation Meront, Inducing Long-Term Infection by the Mouse Eimerian Parasite, Eimeria krijgsmanni 🐁
  4. Anticoccidial activity of the secondary metabolites in alpine plants frequently ingested by wild Japanese rock ptarmigans 🏔️
  5. Cryptosporidium parvum inactivation from short durations of treatment with ozonated water produced by an electrolytic generation system 💧
  6. Evaluation of the detection method by a flotation method using a wire loop for gastrointestinal parasites 🧬
  7. Molecular detection of toxoplasmosis in wild rats using loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay 🐀
  8. Comparative molecular analyses of Eimeria Schneider (Apicomplexa: Eimeriidae) species from rock ptarmigan in Iceland, Svalbard-Norway, and Japan 🦅
  9. Prevalence and risk factors associated with zoonotic gastrointestinal helminths transmitted by cats in Jabodetabek, Indonesia 🐱
  10. Detection of Trypanosoma lewisi from rodents residing in the densely populated residential regions along the coastal areas of Banyuwangi Sub District, Indonesia 🦠

Conclusion:

Dr. Makoto Matsubayashi is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His extensive research in parasitology and immunology, coupled with his academic leadership, showcases his dedication to advancing veterinary and human health. His innovative contributions and continued excellence in research have had a profound impact on the scientific community, making him an excellent choice for this prestigious award.

 

 

 

Tianzhang Zhao | Animal Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

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Mr Tianzhang Zhao |  Animal Nutrition |  Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at  Dali University, China

Tianzhang Zhao is an associate professor at Dali University in Yunnan Province, China, specializing in Animal Nutrition and Feed Science. He earned his Ph.D. in Animal Husbandry from China Agricultural University in 2014. His academic journey includes a visiting scholar tenure at the University of California, San Diego in 2017, and approximately two years of academic exchange experience in South Korea and the Netherlands.

 

Profile:

Educational Background 🎓:

Ph.D. in Animal Nutrition and Feed Science (2011-2014) China Agricultural University M.E. in Animal Nutrition and Feed Science (2004-2007) Inner Mongolia Agricultural University B.E. in Animal Science (2000-2004) Inner Mongolia Agricultural University Visiting Scholar at UCSD Extension (2017) University of California San Diego Visiting Scholar in Animal Nutrition and Resources Management (2008-2010) Kangwon National University, South Korea

Professional Experience :

Associate Professor (2016-Present) Dali University, Department of Agriculture and Biological Sciences. Research Focus: Exploring American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana) Residue as a New Protein Feedstuff Investigating Dengchuan Cattle, a Unique Native Breed of Dairy Cattle in China Technical Services Expert for Ruminants (2014-2016) Inner Mongolia Chia Tai Feed Co., Ltd., Chia Tai Group Responsibilities: Training sales and technical service staff. Providing specialized technical support for key customers. Supporting marketing for large sheep and beef cattle farms

Research Projects 🔬:

Yunnan Fundamental Research Project Study on optimal ratio of American cockroach residue to replace soybean meal in local breed chicken feed and its antimicrobial effects. Yunnan Fundamental Research Project Investigation and exploration of Dengchuan Cattle. Sheep Industry System Research Project of Agriculture Ministry Research on dietary oil sources’ effects on fatty acid and intramuscular fat contents in lamb.

Research Focus in Animal Nutrition:

American Cockroach (Periplaneta americana) Residue as Protein Feedstuff: Objective: Investigate the potential of American cockroach residue to serve as a sustainable and effective protein source in animal feed. Research Highlights: Studying its nutritional profile and benefits. Evaluating its partial replacement for traditional protein sources like soybean meal in poultry diets. Published research indicating positive effects on growth performance and feed efficiency in chickens. Dengchuan Cattle – Native Breed in China: Objective: Explore the unique characteristics and genetic diversity of Dengchuan cattle, an indigenous dairy breed in China. Research Highlights: Analyzing genetic markers and population structure using advanced techniques like single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) chips. Investigating breeding and management practices to enhance productivity and conservation of the breed. Assessing the impact of different thawing methods on the quality of frozen semen, crucial for breeding programs. Dietary Oil Sources in Lamb Nutrition: Objective: Examine the impact of various dietary oils on fatty acid composition and growth performance in lambs. Research Highlights: Studying the effects of different oil sources on ruminal digestion and bacterial populations responsible for hydrogenation of unsaturated fatty acids. Evaluating changes in carcass characteristics and meat quality traits in lambs. Vitamin E Supplementation in Sheep: Objective: Assess the benefits of vitamin E supplementation on growth performance and meat quality in Tan sheep. Research Highlights: Analyzing improvements in carcass characteristics and intramuscular fatty acid composition. Publishing findings in reputable agricultural journals, contributing to enhanced nutritional strategies in sheep farming. Clostridium butyricum in Rabbit Nutrition: Objective: Investigate the potential of Clostridium butyricum as a probiotic alternative to antibiotics in rabbit diets. Research Highlights:Evaluating its effects on growth performance and serum biochemical indexes. Supporting the move towards antibiotic-free animal husbandry with effective probiotic solutions. Digesta Passage Kinetics in Dairy Cows: Objective: Compare ruminal and rectal sampling sites for estimating digesta passage kinetics in dairy cows. Research Highlights: Focusing on cows fed corn stalk-based diets. Improving methodologies for assessing digestion and nutrient absorption efficiency.

Publication:
  • The American cockroach (Periplaneta americana) residue could partially replace the dietary puffed soybean meal in the Three-yellow chicken
    • Poultry Science, 2024-06-09
    • Role: Writing – review & editing
    • Contributors: Tianzhang Zhao
  • Analysis of genetic diversity and structure of endangered Dengchuan cattle population using a single-nucleotide polymorphism chip
    • Animal Biotechnology, 2024-05-11
    • Role: Writing – review & editing
    • Contributors: Tianzhang Zhao
  • Effect of dietary oil sources on fatty acid composition of ruminal digesta and populations of special bacteria responsible for hydrogenation of C18 unsaturated fatty acid in the rumen of feedlot finishing lambs
    • Small Ruminant Research, 2016-11-01
    • Role: Writing – review & editing
    • Contributors: Tianzhang Zhao
  • Effect of vitamin E supplementation on growth performance, carcass characteristics and intramuscular fatty acid composition of Longissimus dorsi muscle in Tan sheep
    • Chilean Journal of Agricultural Research, 2013-10-17
    • Role: Writing – review & editing
    • Contributors: Tianzhang Zhao