Athok Maarif | SARS-CoV-2 Infection | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Athok Maarif | SARS-CoV-2 Infection | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Athok Maarif, Tottori University, Japan

Athok Shofiudin Maarif is an emerging infectious disease researcher currently pursuing a PhD at the Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Tottori University, Japan. With a foundational background in medicine from Sebelas Maret University, Indonesia, Athok has developed a unique blend of clinical insight and advanced research capabilities. His work spans virology, immunology, microbiology, and antimicrobial resistance. He has co-authored several high-impact publications addressing timely global health challenges, particularly related to COVID-19. Athok is skilled in next-generation sequencing, viral culture, qRT-PCR, and flow cytometry, and he has hands-on experience in BSL-3 environments. He is recognized for his ability to bridge research with public health, earning multiple accolades and fellowships for his contributions to infectious disease control. His cross-cultural collaborations and commitment to translational research mark him as a promising leader in global health research.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. High-Impact Research Publications:

    • Athok has authored and co-authored peer-reviewed papers in reputable journals such as Frontiers in Immunology, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Yonago Acta Medica, and Journal of Infection and Chemotherapy.

    • His work is cutting-edge, addressing SARS-CoV-2 viral persistence, immune dynamics during Omicron, and microbiome analysis using next-generation sequencing.

  2. Technical Proficiency:

    • Mastery in NGS, qRT-PCR, flow cytometry, BSL-3 practices, and microbial DNA/RNA extraction.

    • Conducts complex lab work involving viral assays, PBMC isolation, and genomic studies, giving him versatility in laboratory-based infectious disease research.

  3. Strong International and Interdisciplinary Experience:

    • Research assistant roles in both Indonesia and Japan, combining clinical data, molecular science, and public health.

    • Recognized through fellowships and awards by USAID, INDOHUN, and international programs in Vietnam, Thailand, and Japan.

  4. Public Health & Global Health Perspective:

    • Active in One Health programs and waterborne disease prevention, showing ability to translate science into community impact.

    • Leads projects bridging microbiological research with real-world health policy and outreach.

⚙️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Principal Investigator Role & Independent Research:

    • While he is a key contributor to multiple projects, Athok should aim to lead projects independently (e.g., as first or corresponding author in more papers).

    • Gaining competitive research grants or funding independently would strengthen his research autonomy.

  2. Broaden Beyond SARS-CoV-2:

    • His current research is primarily focused on COVID-19 and related microbiota studies.

    • Expanding into other emerging infectious diseases or antimicrobial resistance pathogens could widen his impact and relevance long-term.

  3. Increase Public and Policy Engagement Outputs:

    • While his research connects to public health, policy briefs, community health publications, or open-access science communication pieces would enhance visibility.

🎓 Education:

Athok Shofiudin Maarif is a PhD candidate in the Infectious Disease Department at the Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Japan, where he is expected to graduate in September 2025. His doctoral research focuses on the host-virus interface and antimicrobial resistance, utilizing cutting-edge genomic technologies. He previously earned his medical degree from Sebelas Maret University, Surakarta, Indonesia, graduating in April 2019. His education has emphasized both clinical medicine and research methodology, enabling him to tackle real-world infectious disease issues with scientific rigor. His early exposure to international academic programs, such as internships and short courses in Japan, Vietnam, and Thailand, enriched his global perspective and research aptitude. This educational foundation supports his current success in producing high-impact publications and executing interdisciplinary projects within both clinical and laboratory settings, further validating his dedication to global infectious disease control and scientific discovery.

💼 Professional Experience:

Athok Shofiudin Maarif has diverse experience in both research and field-based public health programs. Since 2021, he has worked as a Research Assistant in the Infectious Disease Department at Tottori University, Japan, where he manages experimental protocols, clinical sample data, and lab logistics involving pathogens at BSL-2/BSL-3 levels. His contributions include data analysis, coordination of laboratory workflow, and execution of molecular diagnostics such as qRT-PCR and viral assays. From 2018 to 2020, he served as a Research Assistant in the Public Health Department at Sebelas Maret University, organizing collaborative projects with government and health organizations in Indonesia. His interdisciplinary roles bridge laboratory and community-based research, underlining his capacity to integrate policy, education, and science in infectious disease management. This hybrid skillset enables him to effectively contribute to global health innovations and strengthens his candidacy for international research honors.

🏅 Awards & Honors:

Athok has received numerous prestigious awards that reflect both his scientific aptitude and social leadership. In 2019, he was named Best Participant in the International Short Course on Ecosystem One-Health in Thailand. He interned at Tottori University’s Infectious Disease Department in 2018 and earned the Best Project Award from USAID-INDOHUN for a community-based waterborne disease initiative. His cross-border engagements include a project on HIV/AIDS awareness for youth in Vietnam and a Research Fellowship under Sebelas Maret University’s Global Challenge Program. Earlier, in 2016, he was awarded Best Oral Presenter at a national HIV-AIDS educational program and recognized in a USAID disease outbreak preparedness course. These accolades showcase his leadership, international collaboration, and dedication to health innovation. His capacity to deliver results in both academic and field environments reflects his strength as a well-rounded researcher and strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

🔬 Research Focus:

Athok’s research centers on infectious diseases, particularly at the intersection of virology, immunology, and antimicrobial resistance. His PhD explores host–virus interactions in persistent SARS-CoV-2 infections, including viral evolution and gene expression profiling. He is also investigating the dynamics of natural killer cells during the Omicron phase, providing insights into immune responses. His broader work encompasses the impact of antibiotics like lascufloxacin on gut microbiota, development of rapid PCR diagnostics for COVID-19, and a systematic meta-analysis of antimicrobial resistance trends in Indonesia (2000–2023). He is also comparing resistant bacteria’s genetic profiles between Japan and Indonesia. Athok applies advanced technologies such as next-generation sequencing, flow cytometry, and BSL-3 viral culture techniques to tackle complex microbiological questions. His interdisciplinary, cross-national research approach aims to contribute practical solutions for infectious disease diagnostics, treatment, and public health strategy.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🦠 Host–Virus Interface in Persistent SARS-CoV-2 Infections: Viral Characteristic Evolution and Gene Expression Profiling Analysis

  2. 🧪 Distinct Immunity Dynamics of Natural Killer Cells in Mild and Moderate COVID-19 Cases During the Omicron Variant Phase

  3. 🧬 Temporal Effects of Lascufloxacin on Human Gut and Salivary Microbiota: Analysis Using Next-Generation Sequencing Method

  4. 🧫 An Optimal Transport Medium for SARS-CoV-2 Detection in the Direct Method of Rapid Microfluidic PCR System

  5. 💊 Antimicrobial Resistance Trends in Indonesia (2000–2023): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Bacterial Resistance Across Antibiotic Classes (under review)

  6. 🧻 Comparison of Antimicrobial Resistance Characteristics and Genetic Profiles of Resistant Bacteria in Japan and Indonesia (ongoing)

📝 Conclusion:

Athok Shofiudin Maarif is an exceptionally promising early-career researcher in the field of infectious diseases. His strong international publication record, lab proficiency, and engagement in One Health initiatives make him highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. His trajectory demonstrates significant leadership potential in translational virology and public health. With further development in grant leadership and broader disease focus, he will continue to emerge as a top-tier researcher in global infectious diseases.

Marta Lopez de Diego | virus-host interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Marta Lopez de Diego | virus-host interactions | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Marta Lopez de Diego , Centro Nacional de Biotecnologia , Spain

Marta López de Diego is an Assistant Professor at the National Center for Biotechnology (CNB), part of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC). She obtained her PhD from the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid in 2008, under Prof. Luis Enjuanes, focusing on virus-host interactions. Following her PhD, she completed a postdoctoral term at CNB before moving to the University of Rochester, where she became an Assistant Professor in 2014. Since 2018, she has led her own research group at CNB. Her research is centered on viral pathogenesis, specifically studying respiratory viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, and the cellular mechanisms that influence viral replication and immune responses. Marta is a prominent figure in virology, recognized for her expertise in the molecular mechanisms of viral diseases and her collaboration with industry leaders.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Academic and Research Background: Dr. López de Diego has a strong academic foundation, with a PhD from Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and postdoctoral experience at the University of Rochester. She has demonstrated leadership and scientific excellence, transitioning from a postdoctoral researcher to an Assistant Professor and leading her own research group at CNB-CSIC.
  2. Focused and Impactful Research: Her research is focused on important viral pathogenesis, particularly related to respiratory viruses like influenza and SARS-CoV-2. She explores virus-host interactions, innate immune responses, and viral replication, all of which are critical to understanding and combating viral diseases.
  3. Impressive Research Projects and Funding: Dr. López de Diego has successfully led and collaborated on multiple high-impact research projects funded by reputable agencies (e.g., the Ministry of Science and Innovation of Spain). She is the principal investigator (PI) of several notable projects, demonstrating strong leadership skills in research management. Her projects cover a wide range of issues, including immune responses, viral pathogenesis, and the development of antiviral treatments.
  4. High Citation and H-index: With an impressive H-index (42 according to Google Scholar) and significant citation count, Dr. López de Diego’s research is widely recognized within her field. Her work contributes significantly to understanding the molecular mechanisms of viral diseases and has been influential in the scientific community.
  5. Collaboration with Industry: Her collaboration with industry partners, such as Micromod Partikeltechnologie GmbH, Nanomag, and nanoPET-Pharma, showcases her ability to bridge academia and industry, a crucial aspect of advancing scientific discoveries into real-world applications. The antiviral research involving nanoparticles for respiratory virus treatment has practical implications, particularly for COVID-19 and influenza.
  6. Publication and Contributions to Books: Dr. López de Diego has contributed to several book chapters, showcasing her knowledge in areas of virology and nanoparticle-based antiviral strategies. This contributes to the education and dissemination of cutting-edge research to a broader audience.
  7. Patents and Novel Discoveries: She has multiple patents related to viral pathogenesis and potential therapeutic strategies, underlining the practical significance of her work in advancing new antiviral approaches.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader International Collaboration: While Dr. López de Diego has worked in international settings like the University of Rochester, increasing her collaborations with researchers from different parts of the world (outside of Europe and the US) could further expand the global impact of her work, especially in underrepresented regions.
  2. Focus on Translational Research: Although her research on virus-host interactions and antiviral strategies is impactful, a further emphasis on the clinical translation of her findings into treatment options could strengthen her overall contribution to the field. More clinical trials or collaboration with hospitals could help solidify her research’s real-world application.
  3. Public Engagement and Outreach: As an expert in the field of virology, Dr. López de Diego could engage more with the public, raising awareness about the importance of her research, especially in the context of public health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Involvement in science communication could further elevate her recognition.

Education:

Marta López de Diego completed her PhD in 2008 at the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Spain. Under the mentorship of Prof. Luis Enjuanes at the CNB, her doctoral research focused on understanding virus-host interactions. Afterward, she continued her work at CNB as a postdoctoral researcher, contributing to various projects on viral pathogenesis. In 2013, she moved to the University of Rochester in the United States to join Prof. David Topham’s lab, where she was promoted to Assistant Professor in 2014 due to her significant contributions to the field. Marta’s solid academic background, coupled with her international experience, has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of virology and cellular biology. She has since returned to CNB, where she continues to investigate the complex relationships between viruses and host cells, particularly in the context of respiratory diseases.

Experience:

Marta López de Diego has a distinguished career as a researcher and academic in the field of virology. She began her career with a PhD in 2008, followed by postdoctoral work at the CNB, where she developed expertise in respiratory viruses and viral pathogenesis. In 2013, she joined the University of Rochester as a postdoctoral researcher, and by 2014, she was promoted to Assistant Professor. During her tenure, she led innovative research on the cellular factors influencing viral replication and immune responses. In 2018, Marta returned to Spain and established her own research group at the CNB, focusing on virus-host interactions, particularly the immune responses to respiratory viruses. Marta has secured multiple research grants and has become a key collaborator with both academic and industry partners. Her leadership and contributions to viral research have established her as a leading scientist in the field of cellular and molecular virology.

Research Focus:

Marta López de Diego’s research primarily investigates the interaction between respiratory viruses and host cellular mechanisms, with a particular focus on the pathogenesis of viruses like influenza and SARS-CoV-2. Her studies explore how cellular proteins influence viral entry, replication, and the induction of immune responses. Marta is also investigating the role of interferon-stimulated genes in antiviral responses and how these interactions contribute to disease severity. Her research aims to uncover the molecular processes that determine the outcome of viral infections, which is crucial for developing targeted therapies and vaccines. Furthermore, Marta’s work extends to exploring how host factors can be leveraged to prevent viral replication and modulate immune responses. Her ongoing projects, which are well-funded by Spanish and international agencies, reflect her leadership in virology. Marta also collaborates with industry partners to develop novel antiviral strategies using nanoparticles, reinforcing her commitment to translational research.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Antiviral Activity of Iron Oxide and Iron Oxyhydroxide Nanoparticles in Respiratory Infections 📚🦠
  2. Emergencia del síndrome respiratorio agudo y grave y protección frente al coronavirus causante del mismo 📖🌍
  3. Emergencia de virus. Evolución y protección frente al coronavirus de la neumonía atípica SARS-CoV 📘🦠
  4. Vaccines for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Virus and Other Coronaviruses 📙💉
  5. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Envelope Protein Ion Channel Activity Promotes Virus Fitness and Pathogenesis 🔬🦠
  6. A Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus that Lacks the E Gene is Attenuated In Vitro and In Vivo 💥🔬
  7. Inhibition of NF-κB-Mediated Inflammation in SARS-CoV-Infected Mice Increases Survival 💡🦠
  8. Subcellular Location and Topology of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Envelope Protein 🔬🧬
  9. Whole-Genome Sequencing Reveals Host Factors Underlying Critical COVID-19 📊🧬
  10. Engineering a Replication-Competent, Propagation-Defective Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus as a Vaccine Candidate 🧬💉

Conclusion:

Dr. Marta López de Diego is an outstanding researcher whose work is not only scientifically rigorous but also has profound implications for global health, particularly in understanding and combating respiratory viruses. She has demonstrated leadership in research, secured substantial funding, and contributed to significant scientific advancements in virology. Her strengths in scientific research, international collaboration, and engagement with the industry make her an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With a little more emphasis on clinical applications and public outreach, Dr. López de Diego’s work could have even greater societal impact.