Saloni Singh | Microbial Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Saloni Singh | Microbial Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Saloni Singh, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, South Korea

Saloni Singh is a dedicated Ph.D. student at Seoul National University of Science and Technology, South Korea, specializing in microbiology and food safety. Originally from India, she has demonstrated excellence in research through her academic journey from a Gold Medalist in B.Sc. Microbiology to an award-winning M.Sc. scholar in Food Science and Technology under the Global Korea Scholarship. Her academic record is complemented by a growing portfolio of impactful publications focusing on pathogens, gut microbiota, and antimicrobial strategies. Saloni’s research is deeply rooted in public health improvement, particularly in understanding microbial interactions and resistance mechanisms. She has presented her findings in reputed journals and continues to push boundaries in microbiome-based therapeutic approaches. Beyond academics, she exhibits leadership, critical thinking, and a strong commitment to scientific innovation. Her interdisciplinary background and persistent research efforts make her a strong candidate for the Women Research Award, recognizing her as a rising talent in biosciences.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Academic Excellence 🎓

    • Gold Medalist in B.Sc. Microbiology with a GPA of 9.8/10

    • Global Korea Scholarship awardee during M.S. with Best Researcher recognition

    • Ph.D. scholar at a reputed South Korean university under leading academic mentorship

  2. Strong Research Profile 🔬

    • First-author publications in high-impact journals such as Pathogens, Microorganisms, and Life

    • Research contributions on critical public health issues: gut microbiota, foodborne pathogens, and antimicrobial resistance

  3. Interdisciplinary Impact 🌐

    • Bridging microbiology, immunology, food safety, and cancer therapy

    • Conducted in vitro studies, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews with international relevance

  4. Publication Record 📝

    • Five published research papers, including:

      • Campylobacter in poultry processing environments

      • Gut microbiota protection mechanisms against Salmonella Typhimurium

      • Emerging strategies using Clostridium species for anticancer therapy

  5. Global Experience & Recognition 🌍

    • Cross-cultural academic experience in India and South Korea

    • Collaboration with diverse teams and advisors in life science and food safety disciplines

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  • Field Engagement: Increasing participation in international conferences or presenting as an invited speaker would boost her scientific visibility and leadership profile.

  • Advanced Techniques: Expanding skill sets in omics-based platforms (e.g., metagenomics, transcriptomics) can enhance the depth of her microbiome research.

  • Patent or Product Development: Translating her findings into applicable biotech solutions or industry-oriented innovations could broaden her impact.

📘 Education:

Saloni Singh holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology from Patna Women’s College under Patna University, where she graduated with a stellar GPA of 9.8/10 and was awarded the Gold Medal for topping the university in 2021. Building upon her strong academic base, she pursued her Master of Science in Food Science and Technology at Chungnam National University, Daejeon, South Korea. As a Global Korea Scholarship scholar (2021–2024), she worked under the mentorship of Prof. Ok Kyung Koo, excelling in gut microbiota research and winning the “Best Researcher Award.” Currently, she is a Ph.D. student at Seoul National University of Science and Technology, working under Prof. Seung-Oh Seo in the Department of Bioengineering. Her academic focus spans microbial pathogenesis, gut health, and food safety. Saloni’s rigorous training and global education have equipped her with deep scientific insight and research competence essential for advancing microbiological and biomedical innovations.

🧪 Experience:

Saloni Singh brings rich research experience across microbiology, food safety, and biotechnology. During her M.S. at Chungnam National University, she led a thesis project on gut microbiome dynamics during Salmonella Typhimurium infection, employing in vitro models to uncover microbial resistance mechanisms. Her experience includes working on high-impact studies, resulting in multiple first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals. As a Ph.D. candidate, she is delving into advanced therapeutic strategies using gut microbiota and spore-forming bacteria like Clostridium for cancer treatment. Saloni is adept in microbial culture, data analysis, systematic reviews, and immunological assays. Her cross-disciplinary experience extends to virology and antimicrobial resistance, as seen in her studies on Listeria monocytogenes and Influenza virus. Her scientific contributions have been recognized with academic awards and research excellence certifications. She continues to collaborate with international researchers, demonstrating both independent and team research capabilities. Her professional journey exemplifies commitment, skill, and innovation in life sciences.

🧬 Research Focus:

Saloni Singh’s research primarily revolves around microbial pathogenesis, gut microbiota-host interactions, and foodborne pathogen control. Her M.S. thesis explored how gut microbiota respond to Salmonella Typhimurium infections, providing insight into microbial defense mechanisms. She is particularly interested in how commensal bacteria modulate immune responses and offer protection against pathogenic invasion. Her current Ph.D. work extends this interest to the use of anaerobic spore-forming bacteria like Clostridium for anticancer strategies, integrating microbiome science with therapeutic innovation. Saloni also investigates antimicrobial resistance patterns in food environments and their public health implications, exemplified in her meta-analysis on Campylobacter contamination in South Korean poultry. Her methodology encompasses in vitro studies, systematic reviews, and data-driven meta-analyses, enabling her to derive translational insights. Her research contributes to developing preventive and therapeutic interventions by leveraging microbiota as a functional tool. Her long-term goal is to design microbiome-based solutions to combat infectious diseases and improve food safety standards globally.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 📄 A Comprehensive Review Exploring the Protective Role of Specific Commensal Gut Bacteria against Salmonella – Pathogens, 2024

  2. 📊 Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Campylobacter Species Contamination in Poultry, Meat, and Processing Environments in South Korea – Microorganisms, 2023

  3. 🧫 Identification of Bacteria from under Finger Nails – Int J Sci Res Sci Technol, 2020

  4. 🧬 Anti-Cancer Strategies Using Anaerobic Spore-Forming Bacteria Clostridium: Advances and Synergistic Approaches – Life, 2025

  5. 🧪 In Vitro Study Investigating Protective Role of Gut Microbiota Against Salmonella Typhimurium: Dynamics and Immune Modulation – (In press)

🔚 Conclusion:

Saloni Singh emerges as a promising and impactful early-career researcher whose academic journey, publication record, and topic relevance align strongly with the mission of the Best Researcher Award. Her dedication to improving global health through microbiome research and her continuous academic excellence position her as a worthy candidate for recognition. With a robust publication record, interdisciplinary approach, and a strong foundation in both theory and lab-based practice, she exemplifies the values of innovation, excellence, and scientific contribution. She not only deserves this award but will also serve as an inspiration for women in science globally.

Aime Christian Kayath | Microbial Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Aime Christian Kayath | Microbial Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Aime Christian Kayath, Marien NGOUABI University, Republic of the Congo

Dr. Christian Aimé Kayath is a Congolese biotechnologist, academic, and scientific leader with over two decades of experience in teaching, research, and science policy. Currently serving as the Director of Cooperation at the Ministry of Higher Education, Scientific Research and Technological Innovation (MESRSIT) in the Republic of Congo, he is also a CAMES-accredited Research Professor at Marien Ngouabi University. With a strong foundation in microbiology, molecular biology, and biotechnology, Dr. Kayath has authored over 70 peer-reviewed publications and supervised more than 100 dissertations. His research spans bioremediation, biosurfactants, and fermented food technology. A multilingual scholar fluent in French and English, he has also held research and teaching roles in Belgium, significantly shaping Congo’s scientific infrastructure. He is known for his dedication to academic excellence and public science engagement, as reflected in his creation of educational movements and leadership in cultural organizations.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. 🔬 Robust Research Output

    • 71 peer-reviewed journal articles, 1 book, and 10+ supervised theses.

    • h-index of 9, with 311 citations and a Research Interest Score of 526.8 on ResearchGate.

    • Published consistently in reputable journals like International Journal of Microbiology and Journal of Pathogens.

  2. 👨‍🏫 Academic & Mentorship Leadership

    • Over 100 dissertations supervised since 2015, showing commitment to academic mentorship.

    • Active as a CAMES Lecturer, Research Professor, and Head of a Research Laboratory.

  3. 🌍 International & Policy Experience

    • Held senior roles in government ministries (MRSIT, MESRSIT) as Director of Cooperation and Scientific Activities.

    • Experience across Congo and Belgium, including universities and research institutes.

    • Served as National Liaison Officer (NLO) with the IAEA (2014–2023), indicating global collaboration in science and technology.

  4. 📚 Multidisciplinary Expertise

    • Specialized in biotechnology, molecular biology, microbiology, and biosurfactants.

    • Also skilled in e-management, IT tools, and web design, showcasing adaptability and cross-functional capabilities.

  5. 🫂 Community & Social Engagement

    • Founder of the social education movement “L’école ke bien, l’école ke futa” to fight school dropouts.

    • President of a historic choir with 200+ members, highlighting leadership in civil society.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  • 🌐 Global Collaboration Expansion

    • Although strong in Africa and Europe, expanding collaborations to North America or Asia could enhance his global academic influence.

  • 📱 Digital Visibility

    • A dedicated academic website, active LinkedIn profile, or Google Scholar page would improve public and institutional access to his achievements.

  • 🎯 Citation and Impact

    • While his h-index (9) and citation count (311) are respectable, targeting high-impact journals could elevate his academic footprint further.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Kayath’s academic journey began at Marien Ngouabi University (Congo) with a Bachelor’s degree in Cell Biology and Physiology (1999–2000), followed by a Master’s in Cellular and Molecular Biology (2000–2001). He later pursued a DES in Biotechnology with Distinction at the University of Liège, Belgium (2003–2005), before completing a PhD in Biotechnology–Biochemistry–Molecular Biology (2005–2010), where he graduated with honors. His education is enhanced by complementary training in e-management and business administration (2008–2009, Brussels), which supports his administrative expertise. Dr. Kayath has consistently merged academic rigor with applied science and policy, reflecting a versatile and forward-thinking scholar. His multidisciplinary background underpins his work in biosciences, research governance, and international cooperation.

💼 Professional Experience:

Dr. Kayath’s career includes significant roles in academia, research, and science governance. He has served as Research Professor and Head of Laboratory of Applied Microbiology and Molecular Biology at IRSEN/MESRSIT since 2014. He was previously Scientific Attaché (2015–2016), Director of Scientific Activities (2019–2021), and currently serves as Director of Cooperation at MESRSIT. Internationally, he worked in Belgium as a Senior Scientist at Ovogenics (2011–2012), Project Developer at CERP Haren (2010–2011), and Assistant Professor at the University of Brussels (2008–2011). Earlier, he taught biology at Lycée Ecole Actuel and the International University of Brazzaville. He also acted as NLO for the IAEA (2014–2023), enhancing nuclear science cooperation. His professional path showcases a strong alignment between scientific leadership and practical impact.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Kayath’s research specializes in microbial biotechnology, with a focus on biosurfactant production, bioremediation, microbial fermentation, and pathogen control. His investigations explore the role of indigenous Bacillus strains in soil cleanup and food preservation, alongside the biomedical enhancement of fermented products. He has studied Shigella flexneri’s biosurfactant mechanisms, polyphenol enhancement in ginger fermentation, and biosurfactants in plantain wine. His research directly addresses health, food security, and environmental issues in Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond. Dr. Kayath integrates molecular biology, biochemistry, and microbial ecology, often applying meta-analytical techniques and PCR methods. His ability to blend applied research with policy has made him a bridge between science and governance, reinforcing national research strategies in Congo. His work is widely cited, and he continues to contribute to sustainable innovation in African biotechnology.

📚 Publications Top Notes: 

  1. 🧫 High Efficacy of Rose Bengal in Reducing the Pathogenicity of Escherichia coli – Int. J. of Microbiology (2025)

  2. 🍛 Evolution of Fermented Food Products in the Republic of Congo: A Meta-analytic Review – J. of Advances in Microbiology (2024)

  3. 🌱 Bacillus Species Consortium as a New Starter in Cassava Retting – Int. J. of Microbiology & Biotechnology (2024)

  4. 🧪 Involvement of Bacillus SecYEG Pathway in Biosurfactant Production and Biofilm Formation – Int. J. of Microbiology (2024)

  5. 🛢 Profiling of Indigenous Biosurfactant-Producing Bacillus Isolates in Bioremediation – Int. J. of Microbiology (2021)

  6. 🔬 Prime Enzymatic Exocellular Background of Lysinibacillus louembei – Advances in Microbiology (2020)

  7. 🍹 Synergic Involvements of Microorganisms in Fermented Ginger Juice – Int. J. of Microbiology (2020)

  8. 🧫 Invasion of Epithelial Cells via T3SS of Shigella flexneri – J. of Pathogens (2020)

  9. 🧬 Invasion of Epithelial Cells via T3SS of Shigella flexneri (Preprint) – bioRxiv (2020)

  10. 🍷 Benefits of Biosurfactants from Lactic Acid Bacteria in Plantain Wine – Advances in Microbiology (2019)

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Christian Aimé Kayath is an exceptionally qualified and well-rounded researcher, merging high-level academic output with administrative leadership and societal engagement. His prolific publication record, contribution to education policy, international collaborations, and mentorship excellence make him highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award.

Amal Zaher | Microbial Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Amal Zaher | Microbial Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Amal Zaher , Beni-suef University , Egypt

Dr. Amal Zaher Shehata Mohamad is an Egyptian chemical and environmental engineering researcher with over two decades of academic and industrial experience. Born on March 6, 1978, she currently serves as an Associate Professor at the Department of Environmental Science and Industrial Development, Faculty of Postgraduate Studies for Advanced Sciences, Beni-Suef University, Egypt. Dr. Zaher’s work bridges environmental sustainability and nanotechnology, focusing on wastewater treatment and advanced material applications. With a strong background in safety and occupational health, her research integrates real-world industry needs with academic innovation. She has published extensively in high-impact journals and has contributed to book chapters and international conferences. Her collaborative nature and interdisciplinary expertise have made her a respected voice in environmental science across Egypt and beyond.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Output: Dr. Zaher has authored over 20 peer-reviewed articles, conference papers, and book chapters, covering highly relevant environmental topics like wastewater treatment, nanotechnology, and advanced materials.

  2. Interdisciplinary Expertise: She bridges chemical engineering and environmental science, with a strong focus on Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs), MOFs, nanofibers, and photocatalysis, demonstrating deep technical versatility.

  3. Real-World Relevance: Her research is oriented toward practical environmental applications—such as the degradation of pollutants and water purification—contributing to sustainable development and public health.

  4. Longstanding Academic and Industrial Experience: Dr. Zaher combines over 20 years of experience in engineering practice, health & safety, and academic teaching, giving her research both depth and applicability.

  5. Global Contributions: Participation in international conferences and publication in high-impact journals (e.g., Fuel, Scientific Reports, Environmental Science and Pollution Research) demonstrates global recognition.

  6. Leadership and Mentorship: As an Associate Professor, she plays a key role in mentoring postgraduate students, leading interdisciplinary projects, and promoting research at Beni-Suef University.

🔄 Areas for Improvement:

  1. International Collaborations: While she has collaborated widely within Egypt, expanding joint projects with international institutions or labs would elevate her global research profile.

  2. Patent or Commercial Applications: Filing patents or translating her nanomaterials research into industrial or commercial solutions would further enhance her impact.

  3. Research Funding and Grants: More visibility in securing or leading national/international research grants would strengthen her academic leadership credentials.

  4. Citation Impact: While she publishes frequently, focused efforts on publishing in journals with higher citation indices or review papers may increase her scientific impact.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Amal Zaher holds a B.Sc. with Honors in Chemical Engineering from Minia University, Egypt (2000). She later earned her M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering from the same institution in 2006 with a thesis focused on innovative techniques for treating oil-polluted wastewater. Driven by her interest in sustainable environmental technologies, she continued her academic pursuits and received her Ph.D. in Environmental Science and Industrial Development, further enhancing her knowledge in advanced oxidation processes and nanomaterials for wastewater treatment. Her educational background merges rigorous engineering principles with environmental applications, making her a versatile researcher in tackling industrial pollution challenges. Her academic training provided the foundation for a distinguished career in teaching, safety management, and cutting-edge scientific research.

💼 Experience:

Dr. Amal Zaher began her professional journey as a freelance engineer (2000–2002) before working as a specialist in safety and occupational health at the Manpower and Immigration Department in Minia, Egypt (2002–2016). She transitioned into academia in 2013 as an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Postgraduate Studies for Advanced Sciences, Beni-Suef University (BSU), later promoted to Associate Professor. With her diverse background, she has contributed significantly to environmental safety and pollution control both in practice and in theory. Her hands-on experience in industrial environments enhances her teaching and research, enabling her to address real-world problems with academic solutions. Dr. Zaher has led and collaborated on numerous projects related to wastewater treatment, nanomaterials, and environmental remediation, establishing herself as an expert and mentor in the field.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Amal Zaher’s research centers around advanced materials and processes for environmental remediation, particularly in water and wastewater treatment. Her work explores the use of layered double hydroxides (LDH), metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), and nanostructures in removing pollutants like heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, and dyes. She is known for her contributions to photocatalytic degradation using processes such as Photo-Fenton and her innovative use of zeolite templates and metal doping to enhance adsorptive efficiency. Her recent projects delve into electrocatalytic and antibacterial applications of nanomaterials, as well as solar desalination. Her multidisciplinary approach—combining chemical engineering, environmental science, and materials chemistry—supports sustainable water management. Through publications, book chapters, and international presentations, Dr. Zaher has advanced global knowledge on pollution control and eco-friendly technologies.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. ⚗️ Using Advanced Oxidation Process for Oily Water Clean-up

  2. 🌿 Optimization of a Simulated Photo-Fenton Process for Treating Olive Mill Wastewater

  3. 🔬 Influences of Tungsten Incorporation on Ni/C Nanostructures for Urea Elimination

  4. 💊 Zn/Fe LDH for Removal of Oxytetracycline: Experimental & Molecular Simulations

  5. 🌞 Photocatalytic Degradation of Phenol Wastewater: Photo Fenton Optimization

  6. 🧪 Nickel Doped Carbon Nanofibers with Tungsten for Ethanol Oxidation

  7. 💧 La-doped Zn-Fe LDH for Tetracycline Adsorption from Water

  8. 🧱 LDH Nanocubes with Zeolite Templates for Adsorbent Applications

  9. 🎨 Physicochemical Properties of Zn–Fe LDH for Dye Removal

  10. 🧼 Photocatalytic Degradation of Dye Wastewater with ZnO Nanoparticles

📌 Conclusion:

Dr. Amal Zaher Shehata Mohamad is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work stands out for its relevance, innovation, and impact in solving critical environmental challenges through scientific research. With her impressive record of publications, dedication to teaching and mentoring, and alignment with sustainable development goals, she exemplifies the caliber of a leading researcher. Addressing a few strategic improvements could make her a globally recognized name in environmental science and nanotechnology.