Dr. Zafar Iqbal | Molecular Biology | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Life Science

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.

View ORCID Profile

Featured Publications

Dr. Pricilla Mbiri | Molecular Biology | Research Excellence Award

Published on by Life Science

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.

Profile:

  • 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

Published on by Life Science

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.

Profiles: Orcid | Research Gate

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.

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

Published on by Life Science

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.

Profile: Google Scholar 

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.