Nicole Matejka | Oncology | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Nicole Matejka | Oncology | Best Researcher Award

University of the Bundeswehr Munich | Germany

Nicole Matejka is a biophysics researcher specializing in biomedical radiation physics and cellular imaging, with a strong publication record in cancer cell communication via tunneling nanotubes. Her research explores the mechanisms through which glioblastoma cells use nanotube-mediated networks to enhance radiation resistance and tumor progression. She has authored three peer-reviewed papers in Cells, Frontiers in Oncology, and Radiation Oncology, These publications include high-impact studies on α-particle radiation effects and live-cell microscopic characterization of intercellular networks. In total, her document count stands at 3 indexed papers, all as lead or co-author, reflecting a focused and productive research trajectory in cellular biophysics. Her findings have been presented at prestigious conferences, including the International Congress of Radiation Research and the German Society for Medical Physics, where she received multiple awards such as the Radiation Research Society Trainee Travel Award and the European Radiation Research Society Best Poster Award. Through rigorous experimentation and advanced imaging techniques, Matejka’s contributions significantly advance understanding of radiation-induced intercellular communication in cancer biology.

Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publications

Matejka, N., Amarlou, A., Neubauer, J., Rudigkeit, S., & Reindl, J. High-resolution microscopic characterization of tunneling nanotubes in living U87 MG and LN229 glioblastoma cells. Cells, 13(5), 464

Rudigkeit, S., Matejka, N., Sammer, M., Walsh, D. W. M., Dollinger, G., & Reindl, J. Beam optimization of a heavy ion microbeam for targeted irradiation of mitochondria in human cells. Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section B: Beam Interactions with Materials and Atoms, 549, 20–27

Matejka, N., & Reindl, J. Perspectives of cellular communication through tunneling nanotubes in cancer cells and the connection to radiation effects. Radiation Oncology,

Svetlana Soboleva | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Svetlana Soboleva | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Novosibirsk State University | Russia

Dr. Svetlana Soboleva, a Research Scientist at the Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Russian Academy of Sciences, has made significant contributions to the study of protein-nucleic interactions and enzymology. Her research focuses on the structural and functional characteristics of human milk lactoferrin, its complexes with other milk proteins, and the formation of highly stable multiprotein complexes from human milk and placenta. With a total of 25 published journal papers in SCI and Scopus-indexed publications and 9 citations, she has demonstrated consistent scholarly output in biochemical and molecular biology research. Her h-index, as reflected in her Scopus profile, highlights the impact and recognition of her scientific work within the global research community. She has completed three research projects with one ongoing, showing a sustained commitment to advancing enzymology and protein research. Additionally, she has contributed to academic literature through a book chapter and participated in international collaborations such as the U.S. Civilian Research & Development Foundation  Postdoctoral Fellowship Program. Her research excellence and international engagement underline her position as a deserving candidate for recognition under the Best Researcher Award category.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Research Gate

Featured Publications

Soboleva, S. E., Maltseva, N. A., Kostrikina, I. A., Dmitrenok, P. S., & Nevinsky, G. A. Metal dependent glycosidases of sea cucumber Eupentacta fraudatrix and their properties.

Tupitsyna, A. V., Grigorieva, A. E., Soboleva, S. E., Maltseva, N. A., Sedykh, S. E., Poletaeva, J., Dmitrenok, P. S., Ryabchikova, E. I., & Nevinsky, G. A.  Isolation of extracellular vesicles of Holothuria (sea cucumber Eupentacta fraudatrix). International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(16), 12907.

Zaksas, N. P., Timofeeva, A. M., Dmitrenok, P. S., Soboleva, S. E., & Nevinsky, G. A. Comparison of the content of several elements in seawater, sea cucumber Eupentacta fraudatrix and its high-molecular-mass multiprotein complex. Molecules, 27(6), 1958.

Timofeeva, A. M., Kostrikina, I. A., Dmitrenok, P. S., Soboleva, S. E., & Nevinsky, G. A. Protease and DNase activities of a very stable high-molecular-mass multiprotein complex from sea cucumber Eupentacta fraudatrix. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(12), 6677.

Timofeeva, A. M., Kostrikina, I. A., Dmitrenok, P. S., Soboleva, S. E., & Nevinsky, G. A.  Very stable two mega dalton high-molecular-mass multiprotein complex from sea cucumber Eupentacta fraudatrix.

Ljiljana Bogdanovic | Life Science | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ljiljana Bogdanovic | Life Science| Best Researcher Award

University of Belgrade | Serbia

Ljiljana Bogdanovic, MD, PhD, is an associate professor and pathologist specializing in nephropathology at the University of Belgrade. Her research emphasizes the molecular and histopathological mechanisms underlying both malignant and non-malignant kidney diseases, focusing on glomerular disorders, inflammatory and immunological conditions, monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance (MGRS), and the regenerative role of stem cells. She has published 24 articles in indexed journals (Scopus) and authored or co-authored six book chapters across three books. With an h-index of 8 and 162 citations (Scopus), her work demonstrates significant impact in renal pathology research. She has completed five major research projects (one international and four national) and is presently involved in an ongoing national project. Her notable participation in the CAGEKID study (an international IARC-WHO initiative on kidney cancer) highlighted her collaborative scientific leadership. Using gene amplification, sequencing, and polymorphism analysis correlated with immunohistochemical findings, her research has advanced understanding of disease pathogenesis and supported targeted therapeutic approaches. Through strong international and national collaborations, she continues to contribute to the integration of molecular insights into clinical nephropathology, bridging basic and applied research for better diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid 

Featured Publications

Bogdanovic, L., Vukovic, J., Bogdanovic, J., Babic, I., Micic, D., Medenica, S., & Abazovic, D. (2025, October 9). Stem cells in action: Addressing ischemia-reperfusion injury in acute kidney injury. Molecular Biology Reports.

Bogdanovic, L., Bab, I., Prvanovic, M., Mijac, D., Mladenovic-Markovic, A., Popovic, D., & Bogdanovic, J. (2025, August 5). Uncommon factors leading to nephrotic syndrome. Biomedicines.

Susa, A., Zekovic, M., Davidovic, D., Paunovic, K., Kujundzic, V., Mihajlovic, S., & Bogdanovic, L. (2025, June). From perception to action: Air pollution awareness and behavioral adjustments in pregnant women in Serbia. Healthcare.

Susa, A., Davidovic, D., Nikolic, N., Sljivancanin Jakovljevic, T., Kujundzic, V., Mihajlovic, S., & Bogdanovic, L. (2025, May 28). The role of air pollution exposure and GSTM1-/GSTT1-null genotypes in gestational diabetes mellitus development: A case–control study on gene–environment interactions. Antioxidants.

Medenica, S., Bogdanovic, J., Vekic, J., Vojinovic, T., Babic, I., Bogdanovic, L., Maggio, V., El Tanani, M., & Rizzo, M. (2025, April). Incretin-based therapies and cancer: What’s new? Medicina.

Shoba D | Genetics and Genomics | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Shoba D | Genetics and Genomics | Best Researcher Award

Tamil Nadu Agricultural University | India

Dr. D. Shoba has made significant research contributions in plant breeding and genetics with a strong focus on rice, black gram, and groundnut improvement. Her Google Scholar record shows an h-index of 15, i-10 index of 19, and a total of over 740 citations, reflecting a high level of research influence and sustained scholarly impact. She has authored numerous national and international publications in reputed journals such as Euphytica, Legume Research, Rice (Springer), and Plant Science Today. Her innovations include the development of herbicide-tolerant rice mutant HTM N22 (Robin mutant) and black gram varieties KKM 1 and VBN 12, along with several mung bean yellow mosaic virus (MYMV)-resistant lines. She has also designed a weed remover machine certified by the Patent Office of India and contributed to breeder seed production in rice and pulses to enhance seed security and productivity. Her collaborative research with IRRI Philippines, IIRR Hyderabad, and ICMR Hyderabad underscores international partnerships. Through these advancements, Dr. Shoba has demonstrated leadership in sustainable crop development, molecular breeding, and genetic diversity analysis, strengthening the link between scientific innovation and agricultural resilience.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Research Gate

Featured Publications

Shoba, D., Manivannan, N., Vindhiyavarman, P., & Nigam, S. N. (2012). SSR markers associated for late leaf spot disease resistance by bulked segregant analysis in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Euphytica, 188(2), 265–272.

Shoba, D., Raveendran, M., Manonmani, S., Utharasu, S., Dhivyapriya, D., Subhasini, G., Ramchandar, S., Valarmathi, R., Grover, N., Gopala Krishnan, S., Singh, A. K., Jayaswal, P., Kale, P., Ramkumar, M. K., Amitha Mithra, S. V., Mohapatra, T., Singh, K., Sarla, N., Sheshshayee, M. S., … Sharma, R. P. (2017). Development and genetic characterization of a novel herbicide (Imazethapyr) tolerant mutant in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Rice, 10(1), 10.

Shoba, D., Vijayan, R., Robin, S., Manivannan, N., Iyanar, K., Arunachalam, P., Nadarajan, N., Arumugam Pillai, M., & Geetha, S. (2019). Assessment of genetic diversity in aromatic rice (Oryza sativa L.) germplasm using PCA and cluster analysis. Electronic Journal of Plant Breeding, 10(3), 1095–1104.

Shoba, D., Manivannan, N., & Vindhiyavarman, P. (2009). Studies on variability, heritability and genetic advance in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Electronic Journal of Plant Breeding, 1, 74–77.

Shoba, D., Manivannan, N., & Vindhiyavarman, P. (2012). Correlation and path coefficient analysis in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Madras Agricultural Journal, 99(1–3), 18–20.

Analisa Difeo | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Analisa Difeo | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

University of Michigan | United States

Dr. Analisa Difeo’s extensive scientific portfolio demonstrates a robust record of impactful contributions to cancer biology, reflected in her h-index of 37, 84 documents, and 4693 citations. Her research primarily explores the molecular mechanisms driving ovarian and gynecological cancers, focusing on microRNA regulation, tumor stemness, and chemoresistance. She has authored and co-authored over 80 peer-reviewed journal articles, including publications in leading journals such as Cancer Research, Nature Communications, Cancer Cell, Journal of Clinical Investigation, and Molecular Cancer Therapeutics. Her studies on miR-181a signaling, PP2A activation, and tumor immune response have provided innovative translational insights and laid the foundation for therapeutic strategies targeting ovarian cancer recurrence. Beyond her publications, Dr. Difeo has received multiple competitive research grants from the NIH, DoD, and major foundations, supporting her leadership in precision oncology. She also holds patents related to cancer biomarkers and therapeutic compositions, underscoring her commitment to clinical impact and innovation. With sustained funding, high citation impact, and significant scholarly output, her record establishes a strong foundation for leadership in translational cancer research and mentorship in molecular oncology

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Research Gate

Featured Publications

Avelar, R. A., Gupta, R., Carvette, G., da Veiga Leprevost, F., Colina, J., Teitel, J., Nesvizhskii, A., O’Connor, C., Hatzoglou, M., & Difeo, A. (2024, March 28). Integrated stress response plasticity governs normal cell adaptation to chronic stress via the PP2A–TFE3–ATF4 pathway [Preprint].

Lee, R. T., Yang, P., Alahmadi, A., McQuade, J., Yuan, E., Difeo, A., Narla, G., & Kaseb, A. (2021). Mistletoe extract Viscum Fraxini-2 for treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: A case series. Case Reports in Oncology, 14(2), 729–738.

Nagaraj, A. B., Knarr, M., Sekhar, S., Connor, R. S., Joseph, P., Kovalenko, O., Fleming, A., Surti, A., Nurmemmedov, E., Beltrame, L., et al. (2021). The miR-181a–SFRP4 axis regulates Wnt activation to drive stemness and platinum resistance in ovarian cancer. Cancer Research, 81(16), 4081–4095.

Huvila, J., Cochrane, D. R., Ta, M., Chow, C., Greening, K., Leung, S., Karnezis, A. N., Difeo, A., & Huntsman, D. G. (2021, November). STING pathway expression in low-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary: An unexpected therapeutic opportunity? The Journal of Pathology: Clinical Research, 7(6), 537–547.

O’Connor, C. M., Leonard, D., Wiredja, D., Avelar, R. A., Wang, Z., Schlatzer, D., Bryson, B., Tokala, E., Taylor, S. E., Upadhyay, A., et al. (2020). Inactivation of PP2A by a recurrent mutation drives resistance to MEK inhibitors. Oncogene, 39(9), 1832–1847

Marius Sipping | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Marius Sipping | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Slovak Academy of Sciences | Slovakia

Dr. Marius Sipping is a postdoctoral researcher at the Slovak Academy of Sciences, specializing in biochemistry, pharmacology, and biotechnology. His work focuses on the exploration and characterization of bioactive natural compounds with therapeutic potential against cancer, autoimmune, and infectious diseases. With 10 peer-reviewed journal publications and one authored book, his research has significantly contributed to the understanding of polysaccharide-rich fractions from Ganoderma resinaceum and their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-metastatic properties. He has completed five major research projects that integrate molecular biology and translational pharmacology. His citation records reflect his growing global impact, with an h-index of 6 on ResearchGate, 3 on Web of Science. These indices underscore his citation influence and scientific reach within the biomedical research community. His international collaborations with researchers across Africa, India, Slovakia, Italy, and France have advanced translational applications of natural compounds for cancer and inflammatory disease therapeutics. His interdisciplinary expertise in immunopharmacology, cancer biology, and phytomedicine demonstrates a strong commitment to developing innovative nano-delivery systems and data-driven therapeutic strategies, positioning him as a rising contributor to global life science research.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Research ID

Featured Publications

Sipping, M., Thakur, D., Singh, B., Njamen, D., & Mukherjee, S. Polysaccharide extract of Ganoderma resinaceum restricts breast cancer progression in vitro by intervening in epithelial–mesenchymal transition and cancer stemness. Revista Brasileira de Farmacognosia.

Sipping, M., Sathish Kumar, T., & Kamdem, N. Scientific investigation on antibacterial, antioxidant, cytotoxic effects and TLC bioautography of Terminalia schimperiania stem bark extracts. Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine.

Kamga Silihe, K., Defo Mbou, W., Ngo Pambe, J. C., Kenmogne, L. V., Fotso Maptouom, L., Sipping, M. T. K., Zingue, S., & Njamen, D. Comparative anticancer effects of Annona muricata Linn (Annonaceae) leaves and fruits on DMBA-induced breast cancer in female rats. BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, 23, 4073.

Nana Tchoupang, E., Yadji, V., Wangbara, J. B., Sipping, M. T. K., Zingue, S., Njamen, D., & Mutalik, S. In vitro and in vivo antiproliferative actions of Solanum gilo Raddi (Solanaceae) fruit extract on breast tissues. Advances in Pharmacological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 2022, 6834626.

Kamga Silihe, K., Zingue, S., Sipping, M. T. K., Busuioc Cazanevscaia, A., Dediu Botezatu, A. V., Njamen, D., & Dinica, R. M. The antioxidant potential of Ficus umbellata Vahl (Moraceae) that accelerates in vitro and the in vivo anti-inflammatory protective effects. Applied Sciences, 12(18), 9070

Meijing Piao | Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Meijing Piao | Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Jeju National University | China

Dr. Meijing Piao is a Research Professor at Jeju National University’s Jeju Natural Medicine Research Center, specializing in the study of environmental pollutants such as fine particulate matter, ultraviolet radiation, and nanoparticles, focusing on their molecular mechanisms and oxidative stress–related effects on the human body. Her work also explores the physiological activities of natural products and their defense mechanisms against oxidative damage. She has authored 163 SCI-indexed publications, including 39 as first author and 124 as co-author, accumulating 4,985 citations according to Web of Science. Her research excellence has been recognized globally, ranking among the “Top 2% of Scientists in the World” by Stanford University and Elsevier. Two of her highly cited papers include one on silver nanoparticles’ cytotoxicity in human hepatocytes, cited 585 times, and another on the skin damage caused by ultrafine particulate matter, cited 271 times. Her research outcomes have also led to seven patent applications and substantial contributions to the field of environmental toxicology and natural product pharmacology. With 15 completed and one ongoing research project funded by the National Research Foundation of Korea, her work demonstrates strong continuity, impact, and innovation, significantly advancing knowledge in life science and toxicological research.

Profile: Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Piao, M. J., Kang, K. A., Lee, I. K., Kim, H. S., Kim, S., Choi, J. Y., Choi, J., & Hyun, J. W. (2011). Silver nanoparticles induce oxidative cell damage in human liver cells through inhibition of reduced glutathione and induction of mitochondria-involved apoptosis. Toxicology Letters, 201(1), 92–100.

Piao, M. J., Ahn, M. J., Kang, K. A., Ryu, Y. S., Hyun, Y. J., Shilnikova, K., Zhen, A. X., et al. (2018). Particulate matter 2.5 damages skin cells by inducing oxidative stress, subcellular organelle dysfunction, and apoptosis. Archives of Toxicology, 92(6), 2077–2091.

Zhang, R., Piao, M. J., Kim, K. C., Kim, A. D., Choi, J. Y., Choi, J., & Hyun, J. W. (2012). Endoplasmic reticulum stress signaling is involved in silver nanoparticles-induced apoptosis. The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology, 44(1), 224–232.

Kim, K. C., Kang, K. A., Zhang, R., Piao, M. J., Kim, G. Y., Kang, M. Y., Lee, S. J., Lee, N. H., et al. (2010). Up-regulation of Nrf2-mediated heme oxygenase-1 expression by eckol, a phlorotannin compound, through activation of Erk and PI3K/Akt. The International Journal of Biochemistry & Cell Biology, 42(2), 297–305.

Kang, K. A., Piao, M. J., Ryu, Y. S., Hyun, Y. J., Park, J. E., Shilnikova, K., Zhen, A. X., et al. (2017). Luteolin induces apoptotic cell death via antioxidant activity in human colon cancer cells. International Journal of Oncology, 51(4), 1169–1178.

Zenzile Mbinza | Urban Planning | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zenzile Mbinza | Urban Planning | Best Researcher Award

University of Johannesburg | South Africa

Dr. Zenzile Emile Mbinza is an accomplished urban and regional planning researcher and academic with an extensive body of scholarly work focusing on spatial transformation, metropolitan planning, and place branding in African cities. His research publications in Place Branding and Public Diplomacy explore the complex intersections of neoliberalism, governance, and urban identity within South African metropolitan contexts. Dr. Mbinza has produced significant contributions through peer-reviewed journal papers, book chapters, and conference proceedings, emphasizing sustainable urban development, informal economy dynamics, and inclusive planning frameworks. His research portfolio includes over 25 documents, 200 citations, and an h-index of 8, reflecting consistent scholarly impact in urban studies and planning research. He has supervised numerous master’s and doctoral candidates, contributing to research capacity building in planning education. Additionally, his roles as conference reviewer, external examiner, and postgraduate director highlight his leadership in academic quality assurance and mentorship. His applied research extends to national spatial development projects and municipal policy planning, bridging the gap between theory and practice. Through his innovative studies and community-engaged approaches, Dr. Mbinza has established himself as a leading voice in reimagining African urbanism, advancing evidence-based strategies for sustainable and inclusive city development.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Mbinza, Z. E. (2024). Assessing South African metropolitan cities’ online place brands. Place Branding and Public Diplomacy.

Mbinza, Z. E. (2024). Connecting place branding to social and governance constructs in Johannesburg, South Africa. Place Branding and Public Diplomacy.

Mbinza, Z. E. (2024). Exploring place branding in the Global South: The case of Johannesburg, South Africa. Place Branding and Public Diplomacy

Nepoleon Prabakaran | Psychophysiology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Nepoleon Prabakaran | Psychophysiology | Best Researcher Award

Alliance University | India

Dr. Nepoleon M. P. is an accomplished academic and researcher with a strong record of scholarly contributions in management, leadership, and behavioral sciences. He is currently serving as an Assistant Professor at CMS Business School, Jain (Deemed-to-be University), Bangalore, where he actively engages in teaching and high-impact research. He has published 14 research documents, achieving an h-index of 2 with over 22 citations across Scopus, Web of Science, and other indexed journals. His interdisciplinary research includes themes such as metaverse-based learning, consumer neuroscience, organizational justice, leadership psychology, and cultural intelligence. Notable works include publications in Frontiers in Education, Journal of Information Technology Education Research, Journal of Economics and Management, and Review of Education. He has received five Best Paper Awards from prestigious international conferences, including those organized by Bennett University (Spain), Jaipuria Institute of Management, and IES MCRC (India). In addition to his research, Dr. Nepoleon has conducted faculty development and corporate training programs in AI-based research tools, leadership, and emotional intelligence. His academic journey reflects a dynamic blend of innovation, analytical expertise, and dedication to advancing research and higher education.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Prabakaran, N., Patrick, H. A., & Kareem, J Enhancing English language proficiency and digital literacy through metaverse-based learning: A mixed-methods study in higher education. Journal of Information Technology Education: Research, 24, Article 010.

Prabakaran, N., & Patrick, H. A. Metaverse traveler: An expedition beyond reality. Tourism and Hospitality Management, 32(2), Article 2.

Patrick, H. A., Prabakaran, N., & Elanchezian, D. P. The role of positive leadership and psychological capital on influencing trust and flourishing: Insights from two studies. Journal of Economics and Management, 47, 229–256.

Patrick, H. A., & Prabakaran, N.  Role of power bases and leadership strategies: A study on phygital employees in information technology organizations. Public Organization Review.

Kurian, A., Patrick, H. A., Prabakaran, N., & Arora, D. Effectiveness of job crafting intervention: A validation study. In Proceedings of SPIE – The International Society for Optical Engineering (p. 1).