Dr. Thangavel Murugan | Biotechnology & Industrial Applications | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Thangavel Murugan | Biotechnology & Industrial Applications | Research Excellence Award

United Arab Emirates University | United Arab Emirates

Dr. Thangavel Murugan is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of Computer Science and Information Systems, currently serving as an Assistant Professor in Information Systems and Security. He earned his PhD from Anna University, Chennai, after completing his postgraduate and undergraduate degrees in engineering from reputed institutions in Tamil Nadu. With over a decade of academic experience across leading universities in India and the United Arab Emirates, he has contributed significantly to teaching, curriculum development, and research-driven education. His core research interests span information security, cybersecurity, blockchain technologies, high-performance computing, ethical hacking, cyberforensics, data science for cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and educational technology. Dr. Murugan has an extensive publication record, including books, edited volumes, book chapters, and high-impact journal and conference papers indexed in reputed international databases. His research emphasizes secure systems, intelligent healthcare solutions, AI-driven education, IoT security, and emerging digital technologies. He has received multiple recognitions, including institutional and national-level awards for academic excellence, quality initiatives, and contributions to technology-enhanced learning. A Senior Member of IEEE and active professional society contributor, Dr. Thangavel Murugan continues to advance interdisciplinary research, mentor students, and support innovation in secure and intelligent computing systems.

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Featured Publications

Dr. Simran Motwani | Systems Biology | Young Researcher Award |

Dr. Simran Motwani | Systems Biology | Young Researcher Award

National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi, India

Dr. Simran Motwani is a life sciences researcher specializing in molecular genetics, metabolism, and ageing biology using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model system. She completed her Ph.D. in Life Sciences at the National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi (2020–2025), where her doctoral research focused on deciphering diet-dependent regulation of stress tolerance and lifespan mediated by RICTOR/mTORC2 signaling, one-carbon metabolism, and the p38-MAPK pathway. She holds a Master’s degree in Biochemistry and a Bachelor’s degree (Hons) in Biochemistry from the University of Delhi, graduating as a University Gold Medalist. Dr. Motwani has extensive research experience in genetics, cell biology, molecular biology, metabolomics, mitochondrial biology, and advanced imaging techniques, with strong expertise in lifespan, stress, behavioral, and metabolic assays. Her work has resulted in peer-reviewed publications, preprints, and presentations at national and international scientific meetings. She has been recognized with several prestigious honors, including the DST-INSPIRE Fellowship, CSIR-Lectureship rank, DBT BioE3 Challenge Top-10 Award, and multiple academic merit scholarships. In addition to her research contributions, she has actively mentored undergraduate and postgraduate students. Her research interests center on nutrient sensing, metabolic signaling, stress resilience, ageing, and inter-tissue communication, with the broader goal of advancing translational insights into healthspan regulation.

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Featured Publications

Zebrafish Early Stage Developmental Defects as Indicator of Site-Specific Water Composition of River Yamuna
– DU Journal of Undergraduate Research and Innovation, 2016

Prof. Dr. Fatma Çiğdem Güldür | Biotechnology & Industrial Applications | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Fatma Çiğdem Güldür | Biotechnology & Industrial Applications | Research Excellence Award

Gazi University | Turkey

Prof. Dr. Fatma Çiğdem Güldür is a distinguished professor of Chemical Engineering with more than three decades of academic, research, and leadership experience in environmental and energy-related chemical engineering. She earned her doctorate in Chemical Engineering from Gazi University after completing her postgraduate studies at Middle East Technical University, building a strong foundation in reaction engineering and catalysis. She has served in progressive academic roles at Gazi University, including Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and Professor, and also held an international visiting professorship at the University of Michigan. Her research focuses on catalysis, fuel cells, hydrogen and renewable energy systems, electrochemical processes, nanomaterials, wastewater treatment, and sustainable chemical technologies, with particular emphasis on PEM fuel cells, CO oxidation, and catalyst design. Prof. Güldür has supervised numerous doctoral and master’s theses, led and contributed to a large number of nationally and internationally funded research projects, and published extensively in high-impact SCI and Scopus-indexed journals. She has played key roles in accreditation, Bologna process implementation, and academic quality assurance, while serving as an expert evaluator and journal reviewer. Through her sustained contributions to education, research innovation, and clean energy technologies, she continues to advance chemical engineering solutions for environmental sustainability and future energy systems.

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Dr. Zafar Iqbal | Molecular Biology | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Zafar Iqbal | Molecular Biology | Research Excellence Award

King Faisal University | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Zafar Iqbal is a biotechnologist and academic researcher with extensive expertise in plant molecular virology, biotechnology, and bioinformatics. He obtained his PhD in Biotechnology from the Pakistan Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences in collaboration with the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, following advanced degrees in biochemistry. Currently serving as Assistant Professor at Central Laboratories, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia, he brings over a decade of experience in university-level teaching, research leadership, laboratory quality management, and international collaboration. His research interests encompass plant–virus–vector interactions, whole-genome and microbiome sequencing, CRISPR/Cas-based resistance development, nanoparticle-mediated stress mitigation, biofuels, and sustainable agricultural innovations. He has led and contributed to more than 25 funded research projects, including prestigious RDIA support for establishing a Hi-Tech Next Generation Sequencing facility, and has published extensively in high-impact international journals with more than 1100 citations. Dr. Iqbal actively contributes to the scientific community as a peer reviewer, trainer, and mentor, while playing key roles in ISO 17025 laboratory quality systems and capacity-building programs. Through an integrated approach combining molecular biology, computational analysis, and applied biotechnology, he continues to advance translational life science research and sustainable solutions for agriculture and environmental resilience.

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Dr. Pricilla Mbiri | Molecular Biology | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Pricilla Mbiri | Molecular Biology | Research Excellence Award

University of Namibia | Namibia

Dr. Pricilla Mbiri is a Namibian-based veterinarian and academic with over seventeen years of progressive experience in animal disease control, veterinary public health, and One Health research. She holds a Bachelor of Veterinary Science (University of Zimbabwe), an MSc in Animal/Human/Ecosystem Health (University of Pretoria), and is completing a PhD in One Health, complemented by a 2024 certificate in Health & Veterinary Professions Education. Her career spans service as a State Veterinarian in disease surveillance, FMD and CBPP control, rabies education, and export abattoir operations before transitioning to academia as a Senior Lecturer at the University of Namibia. She has made significant contributions in curriculum development, research-led teaching, student mentorship, and bioinformatics capacity building through the Centre of Excellence in One Health. Her research focuses on tick-borne zoonotic pathogens, molecular diagnostics, antimicrobial resistance, and livestock health, with multiple peer-reviewed publications and ongoing manuscripts. As a recognized leader, she has coordinated national rabies campaigns, contributed to policy development, and supported laboratory and field investigations. She continues to advance veterinary public health through interdisciplinary research and capacity building, aiming to strengthen Namibia’s preparedness for zoonotic threats and enhance One Health collaboration.

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  • DNA Structure and Function

Featured Publications

Mbiri, P., Muleya, W., Moyo, E., Samkange, A., Matomola, O. C., Charamba, V., Ujava, U., Hoebes, E. E., Chitate, F., Neshindo, F. W. T., et al. (2025). Molecular detection and prevalence of Coxiella burnetii in ticks from Namibia: A regional and genus-specific analysis. Pathogens.

Samkange, A., Chitanga, S., Mbiri, P., Matomola, O. C., Neves, L., & Matjila, P. T. (2025). Molecular investigation of Neospora caninum in cattle in the Khomas region of Namibia. Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research.

Mbiri, P., Matomola, O. C., Muleya, W., Mhuulu, L., Diegaardt, A., Noden, B. H., Changula, K., Chimwamurombe, P., Matos, C., Weiss, S., et al. (2024). Molecular detection and characterization of Rickettsia species in ixodid ticks from selected regions of Namibia. Microorganisms.

Samkange, A., Mbiri, P., Matomola, O. C., Zaire, G., Homateni, A., Junias, E., Kaatura, I., Khaiseb, S., Ekandjo, S., Shoopala, J., et al. (2024). Serological evidence of Crimean–Congo haemorrhagic fever in livestock in the Omaheke region of Namibia. Microorganisms.

Kandiwa, E., Mbiri, P., Samkange, A., Madzingira, O., Maseke, A., Kamwi, J. A., & Mushonga, B. (2021). Causes, dynamics and financial losses associated with red offal condemnation at a beef abattoir in Namibia. Journal of Food Safety and Hygiene.

Dr. Mahmoud Abo- Elmaaref | Life Sciences Innovation | Life Sciences Innovation

Dr. Mahmoud Abo- Elmaaref | Life Sciences Innovation | Life Sciences Innovation

Conservation Department, Faculty of Archaeology, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt

Mahmoud Abo Elmaaref is a lecturer and specialist in the conservation of archaeological organic materials, with a particular focus on ancient textiles. He holds a master’s degree in textile conservation (2017) and a PhD in the prevention of microbiological deterioration in archaeological linen using enzymes and nanomaterials (2022), both from Sohag University. Over the course of his academic career, he has served as demonstrator, assistant lecturer, lecturer, and former director of the Center for Studies and Research of Archaeology and Restoration. He has completed extensive training in conservation sciences, documentation, quality assurance, scientific research skills, data analysis, microscopy, nanomaterials applications, and museum collection care through national and international workshops. His research interests include textile conservation, nanomaterials, enzymatic cleaning, antifungal treatments, aging studies, characterization techniques, and sustainable conservation approaches. He has published numerous studies in recognized journals, contributing knowledge on linen and cotton conservation, fungal deterioration, silver-nanoparticle treatments, polymer nanocomposites, and eco-friendly antimicrobial agents. His work demonstrates strong commitment to advancing textile preservation through innovative scientific methods. Overall, his career reflects a blend of research productivity, academic development, conservation practice, and dedication to protecting archaeological heritage for future generations.

Featured Publications

Abo-Elmaaref, M., Mohamed, W. S., & Swielam, E. M. (2025, November 29). Eco-friendly nano-curcumin loaded on different polymers: Properties and applications as a consolidation and antimicrobial agent for archaeological cotton textiles. Discover Applied Sciences.

Abo-Elmaaref, M. (2025, October 21). TiO2 nanoparticles loaded onto methyl methacrylate/ethyl acrylate nanopolymers as consolidation and antimicrobial agents for ivory artefacts. Pigment & Resin Technology.

Abo-Elmaaref, M. (2025, September 24). Synthesis of Chitosan/Klucel E nanocomposite: Properties and application as an antimicrobial and consolidation agent to conserve dyed linen textiles. Pigment & Resin Technology.

Abo-Elmaaref, M. (2024). The usage of AgNPs/Klucel G nanocomposites and some conventional materials in the conservation of archaeological linen textile remains. Advanced Research in Conservation Science.

Abo-Elmaaref, M. (2023). A comparative study for the effect of laboratory aging and fungal infection on properties of raw and dyed linen textiles. Advanced Research in Conservation Science.

Dr. Ghaith Mansour | Pharmacology and Drug Development | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Ghaith Mansour | Pharmacology and Drug Development | Research Excellence Award

Alfaisal University | Saudi Arabia

Ghaith Khalid Mansour is a dedicated PharmD student at Alfaisal University, Riyadh, recognized consistently on the Dean’s List for his academic excellence and strong commitment to advancing the field of pharmacy. His professional development spans meaningful volunteer experiences with leading organizations such as the Saudi Society of Clinical Pharmacy and several impactful health awareness events addressing medication misuse, antibiotic resistance, and dermatological conditions. He has contributed to high-level academic activities, including poster presentations at the 13th College of Pharmacy Research Day at King Saud University and the 15th Annual Research Day at Alfaisal University, earning the 3rd place Young Pharmacist Research Award. His research interest centers on innovative therapeutic strategies, including bioelectronic neuromodulation of renal nerves for hypertension treatment, alongside broader interests in clinical pharmacy, pharmacoeconomics, and public health. He has held leadership roles such as serving as a batch leader at the College of Pharmacy and working with the Saudi Pharmacoeconomic Expert Group on value-based healthcare strategies. Supported by numerous international certifications, he remains focused on contributing to innovative pharmacy practice, advancing patient care, and driving positive healthcare outcomes through research, service, and professional leadership.

Profile: Google Scholar 
Featured Publications

Ameer, O. Z., Mansour, G. K., Al-Amoudi, R. S., & Abu-Owaimer, F. M. (2025). Exploring dupilumab for asthma: From mechanistic insights to clinical outcomes, safety and cost-effectiveness. Frontiers in Pharmacology, 16, 1631321.

Mansour, G. K., Alangari, L, Khosyfan, L, Alhammad, R., & Hajjar, A. W. (2025). Efgartigimod for generalized myasthenia gravis and beyond: A narrative review of its pharmacological profile, clinical utility, and expanding applications. Biomedicines, 13(12), 2975.

Mansour, G. K., & AlGoraini, Y. (2025). Pediatric anaphylaxis in the emergency department: From mechanisms to personalized care. Cureus, 17(10).

Mansour, G. K., Yousif, A., & Mansour, G. (2025). Magnesium sulfate in pediatric emergency medicine: Pharmacology, evidence, and clinical applications. Cureus, 17(9).

Mansour, G. K., Hajjar, A. W., & Sajid, M. R. (2025). Therapeutic targeting of the hepcidin-ferroportin axis and erythropoietic modulators: A narrative review. Frontiers in Medicine, 12, 1726337.

Mr. Negese Demlie | Marine and Aquatic Biology | Marine and Aquatic Biology

Mr. Negese Demlie | Marine and Aquatic Biology | Marine and Aquatic Biology

Debre Tabor University, Ethiopia

Negese Kebtieneh Demlie is a Ph.D. candidate in Fisheries and Aquaculture at Bahir Dar University, focusing on sustainable aquatic food systems and integrated aquaculture for improved livelihoods. He earned an MSc in Biology with specialization in Fisheries, Limnology, and Aquatic Ecotoxicology from Hawassa University and a Bachelor of Education in Biology from Dire Dawa University. His professional background includes serving as Assistant Professor at Debre Tabor University and previous experience as Lecturer at Hawassa University, contributing extensively to teaching, undergraduate supervision, field practices, and laboratory training. His research focuses on integrated aquaculture, fish genetics, population dynamics, fisheries ecology, and climate change impacts on aquatic environments. He has authored multiple peer-reviewed papers on Nile tilapia production efficiency, integrated farming systems, fish diversity, and genetic improvement in African catfish. His participation in national research conferences and involvement in funded research projects highlights his commitment to advancing aquaculture innovation for food security. Negese has also provided professional training in GIS, fish stock assessment, and teaching pedagogy and has held academic leadership roles including Dean and Department Head. His work reflects a strong scientific dedication to improving aquaculture productivity, environmental sustainability, and community-based resource management.

Profile: orcid.org/0009-0001-0984-466X
Featured Publications

Demlie, N. (2024). Genetic diversity and population structure of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus) species: Implications for selection and sustainable genetic improvement—A review. Journal of Aquaculture Research and Development, 15(1), 1–?.

Demlie, N. (2023). Length–weight relationships and reproductive biology of commercially important fishes from Ribb Reservoir, Ethiopia. Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, 26(5), 318–335.

Demlie, N. (2022). Abundance, distribution, and diversity of fishes in Ribb Reservoir, Lake Tana basin, Ethiopia. Cogent Food & Agriculture, 8(1), 2105934.

Demlie, N. (2017). The impact of global climate change on wetlands. International Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Studies, 5(2), 498–508.

Demlie, N. (2016). Stock assessment and estimation of optimum yield for tilapia stock (Oreochromis niloticus) in Lake Hawassa, Ethiopia. Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, 5(4), 97–107.

Demlie, N. (2016). Stock assessment and estimation of optimum yield for tilapia stock (Oreochromis niloticus) in Lake Hawassa, Ethiopia. Poultry, Fisheries & Wildlife Sciences, 4(1), 1–?.

Demlie, N. (2014). Food and feeding habits of the red-belly tilapia (Tilapia zillii Gervais, 1848) (Pisces: Cichlidae) in Lake Ziway, Ethiopia. Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, 3(1), 17–23.

Demlie, N. (2022). Effects of different stocking densities on the growth performance of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus L.) fingerlings cultured in earthen pond system. Ethiopian Journal of Applied Science and Technology, 13(1), 56–70.

Mr. Kamran Haider | Life Sciences Innovation | Young Researcher Award

Mr. Kamran Haider | Life Sciences Innovation | Young Researcher Award

Huazhong Agricultural University | Wuhan, China

Kamran Haider is an emerging researcher in agricultural entomology with a strong focus on insect–plant interactions, biological control, and molecular approaches for pest management. He completed his M.Sc. (Hons.) in Agriculture Entomology and B.Sc. (Hons.) in Agricultural Sciences from the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, where his research centered on the management of Fall armyworm using sodium silicate and Trichogramma integration for sustainable maize protection. Kamran gained international research exposure as a Research Trainee at Huazhong Agricultural University, China, working on insect–plant molecular interactions and gaining practical skills in insect rearing, RNA/DNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, RNA interference, and gel electrophoresis. His additional experience includes internships in pest monitoring, pesticide quality analysis, and field surveys using modern diagnostic tools. He has co-authored research and review papers on topics such as silicon-based insect management, plant melatonin metabolism, and the role of gut microbiota in insect immunity and adaptation. Kamran has completed several certified courses in plant bioinformatics and insect biology and participated in international scientific conferences and workshops. He has received academic awards, including scholarship support and recognition for scientific engagement. He aims to contribute to innovative pest management strategies and sustainable agriculture through advanced entomological research.

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Featured Publications

Ahmed, W., Safdar, U., Ali, A., Haider, K., Tahir, N., Sajid, S., Ahmad, M., … (2022). Sustainable water use in agriculture: A review of worldwide research. [Journal name and volume not provided].

Ikram, M., Mehran, M., ur Rehman, H., Ullah, S., Bakhsh, M. Z. M., Tahira, M., … (2024). Mechanistic review of melatonin metabolism and signaling pathways in plants: Biosynthesis, regulation, and roles under abiotic stress. Plant Stress, 14, 100685.

Zaib, M., Aryan, M., Khaliq, A., Haider, K., Ahmad, S., Zeeshan, A., Haq, E. U., … (2023). Essential insights for effective environmental management and human well-being: Strategies for remediation in soil-plant-environment systems. Journal of Asian Development Studies, 12(3), 1453–1469.

Zaib, M., Farooq, U., Adnan, M., Sajjad, S., Abbas, Z., Haider, K., Khan, N., … (2022). Remediation of saline soils by application of biochar: A review. Journal of Environmental and Agricultural Sciences, 24, 29–36.

Zaib, M., Farooq, U., Adnan, M., Abbas, Z., Haider, K., Muhay-Ul-Din, M. F., … (2023). Water stress in crop plants: Implications for sustainable agriculture. Journal of Environmental and Agricultural Sciences, 25(1), [page numbers not provided].

Haider, K., Abbas, D., Galian, J., Ghafar, M. A., Kabir, K., Ijaz, M., Hussain, M., … (2025). The multifaceted roles of gut microbiota in insect physiology, metabolism, and environmental adaptation: Implications for pest management strategies. World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology, 41(3), 75.

Dr. Maxwell Thatyana | Environmental Toxicology | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Maxwell Thatyana | Environmental Toxicology | Research Excellence Award

University of South Africa | South Africa

Dr. Maxwell Thatyana is a chemistry lecturer and researcher specializing in nanoscience, analytical chemistry, organic and inorganic synthesis, with strong experience in undergraduate teaching, postgraduate supervision, and laboratory management. He holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry (Materials Science) from the University of the Witwatersrand, where his doctoral research focused on developing novel BODIPY photosensitizers and nano-conjugates for antimicrobial and anticancer photodynamic therapy. He also completed an MSc in Chemistry (Nanoscience) at the University of Johannesburg, emphasizing nanocomposite membranes for environmental remediation, and prior training in multidisciplinary nanoscience. His academic career includes roles as postdoctoral research fellow, lecturer, and laboratory manager across several South African universities, where he taught core chemistry courses and supervised Honours, MSc, and Ph.D. students in nanomaterials synthesis and advanced environmental chemistry. His publications and book chapters address green nanotechnology, metal-based complexes in infectious diseases, eco-friendly adsorbents, and metal–organic frameworks for water purification. He has received several academic recognitions, including the Golden Key International Honor Society award and the SACI Young Chemists’ Symposium 3rd Best Oral Presenter. Dr. Thatyana is committed to advancing sustainable nanomaterial solutions for water remediation, biomedical applications, and student-centered scientific training that bridges research and innovation.

Profile:  Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Thatyana, M., Dube, N. P., Kemboi, D., Manicum, A. L. E., et al. (2023). Advances in phytonanotechnology: A plant-mediated green synthesis of metal nanoparticles using Phyllanthus plant extracts and their antimicrobial and … Nanomaterials, 13(19), 2616.

Dube, N. P., Thatyana, M., Mokgalaka-Fleischmann, N. S., Mansour, A. M., et al. (2024). Review on the applications of selected metal-based complexes on infectious diseases. Molecules, 29(2), 406.

Ncube, N., Thatyana, M., Tancu, Y., & Mketo, N. (2024). Quantitative analysis and health risk assessment of selected heavy metals in pet food samples using ultrasound-assisted hydrogen peroxide extraction followed by ICP-OES analysis. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 192, 114915.

Thipe, V. C., Thatyana, M., Ajayi, F. R., Njobeh, P. B., & Katti, K. V. (2020). Hybrid nanomaterials for detection, detoxification, and management of mycotoxins. In Multifunctional hybrid nanomaterials for sustainable agri-food and … (pp. xx–xx). [Publisher].

Mahlaule-Glory, M. N., Moema, E. D., Thatyana, M., & Hintsho-Mbida, N. C. (2024). Adsorption studies on the removal of lead ions by magnetic cellulose nanocrystals as an eco-friendly nanoadsorbent derived from maize waste. International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry, 1(1), 1–34.