Samar Al Nahhas | Immunology | Best Paper Award

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Prof. Dr. Samar Al Nahhas | Immunology | Best Paper Award

Prof. Dr. Samar Al Nahhas | Damascus University | Syria

Professor Samar Al Nahhas is a distinguished professor of Parasitology and Animal Biology at Damascus University with over three decades of academic and research experience. Her work focuses on the epidemiology, diagnosis, and immunology of parasitic diseases, including leishmaniasis, malaria, giardiasis, toxoplasmosis, and echinococcosis. She has published extensively in leading international journals and collaborated with institutions across Lebanon, Egypt, Italy, Algeria, and the UAE. As a mentor and academic leader, she has guided numerous students while contributing significantly to global parasitology research.

Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Samar Al Nahhas began her academic journey with a deep interest in Parasitology and Animal Biology, fields that would shape her career for over three decades. Her early training laid the foundation for expertise in the molecular and immunological aspects of parasitic diseases, with a strong focus on developing improved diagnostic and preventive strategies. She pursued higher education and research with dedication, eventually earning her PhD and establishing herself as a respected academic and researcher at Damascus University, Syria’s leading institution.

Professional Endeavors

Throughout her career, Prof. Al Nahhas has held prestigious academic roles, including serving as Head of the Department of Animal Biology at Damascus University (2000–2007). She has supervised and mentored numerous undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students, shaping the next generation of scientists in parasitology and infectious diseases. Beyond teaching, she has actively contributed as a reviewer for international journals and served as an arbiter for postgraduate theses, ensuring high-quality scholarship in her field. Her collaborations with research institutions in Lebanon, Egypt, Italy, Algeria, and the UAE further highlight her role as a global academic leader.

Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Al Nahhas has devoted her research to the epidemiology, diagnosis, and immunology of parasitic diseases. She has conducted groundbreaking studies on leishmaniasis, malaria, giardiasis, toxoplasmosis, and echinococcosis, significantly enhancing public health approaches to these conditions. Her serodiagnostic research on leishmaniasis has compared various immunological methods, leading to improved diagnostic protocols. Additionally, her molecular characterization of Giardia species and genotypic analysis of Blastocystis have advanced understanding of parasite diversity and their impact on human health. By exploring parasite-host immune interactions, her work has provided vital insights into parasite development both in vitro and in vivo.

Impact and Influence

With a citation index of 373, Prof. Al Nahhas’ contributions have made a lasting impact on the global parasitology community. Her publications in high-impact journals such as Infection, Genetics and Evolution, Acta Tropica, Parasites & Vectors, PLOS One, and Scientific Reports have established her as a leading researcher. Her findings not only strengthen scientific understanding but also directly contribute to public health policies and diagnostic strategies in regions heavily affected by parasitic infections. By combining academic rigor with practical applications, her work has influenced both scientific research and clinical practice worldwide.

Research Skills

Prof. Al Nahhas demonstrates exceptional research skills in molecular biology, immunology, microbiology, and diagnostic epidemiology. She is adept at employing microscopy, serological testing, and molecular diagnostic techniques to unravel parasite biology and disease mechanisms. Her ability to design and execute interdisciplinary projects has allowed her to contribute meaningfully to collaborative studies across multiple countries. Moreover, her experience in guiding postgraduate research underscores her strength in both independent and team-based scientific inquiry.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Al Nahhas has earned recognition for her scholarly excellence through her publications and contributions to parasitology. She has been nominated for prestigious awards such as the Best Paper Award, underscoring her international academic reputation. Her role as a reviewer for leading journals and an arbiter for master’s and PhD theses reflects the trust placed in her expertise by the global research community.

Legacy and Future Contributions

The legacy of Prof. Al Nahhas lies in her pioneering research in parasitology, her role as a mentor to future scientists, and her dedication to advancing public health in regions where parasitic diseases remain a critical challenge. Looking ahead, she is poised to continue her contributions to molecular diagnostics, innovative preventive strategies, and international collaborations. Her future work is expected to further bridge scientific research with healthcare applications, ensuring that her impact endures for gene

Publications Top Notes

Prevalence of Giardia duodenalis assemblages and sub-assemblages in symptomatic patients from Damascus city and its suburbs

Journal: Infection, Genetics and Evolution

Year: 2017

Giardia duodenalis in Damascus, Syria: Identification of Giardia genotypes in a sample of human fecal isolates using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism analyzing method

Journal: Acta Tropica

Year: 2016

Cutaneous leishmaniasis in the central provinces of Hama and Edlib in Syria: Vector identification and parasite typing

Journal: Parasites and Vectors

Year: 2015

Sarcoptes-World Molecular Network (Sarcoptes-WMN): Integrating research on scabies

Journal: International Journal of Infectious Diseases

Year: 2011

Reply from the author

Journal: Saudi Medical Journal

Year: 2009

Serodiagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis in the Syrian Arab Republic

Journal: Saudi Medical Journal

Year: 2009

Assessment of the direct agglutination test, fast agglutination screening test, and rK39 dipstick test for the sero-diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis in Syria

Journal: Saudi Medical Journal

Year: 2008

Contribution study of visceral leishmaniasis in Syria

Journal: Saudi Medical Journal

Year: 2005

Visceral leishmaniasis in the Syrian Arab Republic: Early detection using rK39

Journal: Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal

Year: 2003

 

Conclusion

Professor Samar Al Nahhas exemplifies excellence in parasitology and infectious disease research through her extensive studies on the epidemiology, diagnosis, and immunology of parasitic infections. Her prolific publications, international collaborations, and mentorship of emerging researchers highlight her leadership and impact in the field. By advancing diagnostic tools and preventive strategies, she has made significant contributions to public health. Her dedication, expertise, and global recognition make her a highly deserving candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award.

Ekta Nagar | Immunology | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Ekta Nagar | Immunology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Ekta Nagar, CSIR-Institue of Genomics and Integrative Biology, India.

Ekta Nagar is a dedicated research scholar at CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), working under the mentorship of Dr. Naveen Arora. Her research focuses on immunotoxicology, particularly examining how diesel exhaust impacts lung health and immune responses. With multiple first-author publications in esteemed journals, she has presented her findings at international conferences, earning accolades like the UCB-ICAAI Young Scientist Award. Currently, she is pioneering nanoparticle-based immunotherapies for food allergies, showcasing her commitment to translational research. 🧪🌍

🌟 Professional Profile

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Ekta Nagar’s academic foundation reflects unwavering dedication and excellence. She was the school topper and Gold Medalist in Class XII (90%) under the CBSE Board. Pursuing her passion for life sciences, she completed her B.Sc. in Zoology (Hons.) from Gargi College, University of Delhi, securing a commendable 73.43%. Her pursuit of deeper knowledge led her to obtain a Master’s in Biomedical Sciences from Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Center for Biomedical Research, University of Delhi. Currently, she is a Ph.D. scholar in Biological Sciences at the CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), under the mentorship of Dr. Naveen Arora, with her pre-thesis submitted in March 2025. 🧬📘

💼 Professional Endeavors

Ekta has carved a multifaceted professional path combining academic rigor and translational research. She currently serves as a Project Research Scientist-I for a project titled Development of Immunotherapeutic Regimen with Nanoparticle-Conjugated Food Allergen for Mitigation of Allergic Responses (2023-2026). Her professional engagements span immunology, respiratory inflammation, redox biology, and nanoparticle-mediated therapeutics, showcasing a robust interdisciplinary approach. ⚗️🧪

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus On Immunology 

With a strong inclination towards allergy and immunology, Ekta has explored cockroach allergen-induced inflammation, diesel exhaust-induced respiratory disorders, and the mechanistic pathways involving redox homeostasis, NF-κB, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Her research delves into the cellular and molecular mechanisms of lung injury, identifying potential therapeutic interventions involving antioxidants like glutathione and agents such as resveratrol. She has further explored immunotherapy using T-cell peptides and nano-conjugated allergens, contributing significantly to translational biomedical research. 🧫🧠

🌍 Impact and Influence

Ekta’s work on diesel exhaust exposure and respiratory impairment has garnered global attention. She has presented her findings at prestigious international conferences including the Keystone Symposia (USA), European Respiratory Society (Portugal), and EAACI (Spain), where she also received an international travel award. Her cutting-edge presentations have enriched global dialogues on environmental health and pediatric susceptibility to pollutants. 🌐🌱

🏆 Awards and Honors

Ekta’s excellence is widely recognized:

  • SERB-DST Travel Grant Awardee, European College of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Spain 🛫

  • UCB-ICAAI Young Scientist Award, ICAAI Conference, Delhi 🧪

  • School Topper and Gold Medalist, Class XII CBSE 🥇

  • Vice President, Albatross Society, Gargi College 🌿

  • GATE Qualified, March 2021 🎓

📚 Academic Citations

Ekta has authored and co-authored over 10 high-impact publications, many as a contributing first author, in reputed journals such as Clinical and Experimental Immunology, Science of The Total Environment, Molecular Immunology, and Toxicology. Her contributions are frequently cited in the fields of immunotoxicology, environmental health, and molecular biology, underlining her growing scholarly influence. 📖🧾

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

With a strong academic background, a record of impactful research, and international recognition, Ekta Nagar is poised to become a leading voice in environmental immunology and allergy research. Her ongoing focus on nanoparticle-based therapeutics, epigenetic regulators, and environmental impact on neonatal health highlights her commitment to solving real-world problems. Ekta aspires to bridge the gap between bench science and clinical applications, leaving a lasting legacy in respiratory and immunological health. 🚀🌟

📚Publications Top Notes

🧬 Per a 5-derived T-cell peptides modulate NF-κB signalling to ameliorate allergic inflammation systemically in murine model of cockroach allergic hyper-reactivity
Year: 2022
Citations: 5
Journal: Clinical and Experimental Immunology

🧪 Resveratrol mitigates miR-212-3p mediated progression of diesel exhaust-induced pulmonary fibrosis by regulating SIRT1/FoxO3
Year: 2023
Citations: 3
Journal: Science of The Total Environment

🌫️ Diesel exhaust exposure impairs recovery of lung epithelial and cellular damage in murine model
Year: 2023
Citations: 2
Journal: Molecular Immunology

🔥 NLRP3/GSDMD mediated pyroptosis induces lung inflammation susceptibility in diesel exhaust exposed mouse strains
Year: 2024
Citations: 1
Journal: Gene

🫁 Cockroach allergen exposure alters redox homeostasis and mediates airway inflammation
Year: 2025
Journal: Respiratory Physiology and Neurobiology

🛡️ Glutathione Attenuates Diesel Exhaust-Induced Lung epithelial Injury via NF-κB/Nrf2/GPX-4 Mediated Ferroptosis
Year: 2025
Journal: Toxicology

🔬 Diesel Exhaust Promotes Mitochondrial Dysfunction via PINK/PARKIN-Dependent Mitophagy in Mice Lungs
Year: 2025
Citations: Under process
Journal: Under process

👶 Parental diesel exhaust exposure is associated with neonatal respiratory impairment and increased disease susceptibility
Year: 2025
Journal: Under process

🧠 Diesel exhaust exposure activates miR-133-3p involved in the hippo signalling with cancer pathway
Year: 2025
Journal: Environmental Molecular Mutagenesis

🌱 T-cell epitopes ameliorated the allergic response in kidney bean allergen mouse model and protects epithelial barrier
Year: 2025
Journal: Clinical and Experimental Immunology

Eun Sook Hwang | Immunology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Eun Sook Hwang | Immunology | Best Researcher Award 

Prof. Eun Sook Hwang, Ewha Womans University, South Korea.

Professor. Eun Sook Hwang is a distinguished researcher at Ewha Womans University, specializing in immunology, cell biology, and pharmacology. With 12 national research projects, 105 SCI(E) publications, and an H-index of 35, her work has significantly advanced immune regulation, inflammation, and tissue regeneration studies. She has authored two books, collaborated globally with leading scientists, and serves as an editor for Frontiers in Bioscience-Landmark and Diseases & Research. As Chairperson of the Academic Committee of the Korean Pharmaceutical Society and President of the Woman Bioscience Forum, she is dedicated to mentoring young scientists and driving impactful biomedical research.

Professional Profile:

🌟Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Professor. Eun Sook Hwang is a distinguished researcher with a prolific academic and scientific record in immunology, pharmacology, and regenerative medicine. Her extensive contributions include 105 SCI-indexed publications, 12 nationally funded research projects, and significant industry collaborations. With a citation index of 4,867 and an H-index of 35, her impact on the field is evident. She has also contributed through editorial roles, leadership positions, and global collaborations. Her groundbreaking work in immune regulation, T-cell differentiation, and therapeutic development has propelled advancements in autoimmune disease and cancer research.

Professor. Hwang’s exemplary research output, leadership in scientific communities, and dedication to mentoring future researchers make her a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

🎓 Educational Background:

Professor. Eun Sook Hwang holds a distinguished academic background in biosciences, specializing in immunology, cell biology, and pharmacology. She earned her doctoral degree in pharmaceutical sciences, focusing on molecular mechanisms of immune regulation and inflammation. Her academic journey has been marked by rigorous research and a commitment to advancing biomedical knowledge. Through extensive training and specialization, she has developed expertise in transcription factors, T-cell differentiation, and tissue regeneration. Her education has laid a strong foundation for her prolific research career, leading to numerous high-impact publications, global collaborations, and leadership roles in academic and scientific organizations.

💼 Professional Experience:

Professor. Eun Sook Hwang has an extensive professional background in immunology, cell biology, and pharmacology, currently serving as a professor at Ewha Womans University. She has led 12 national research projects, contributed to over 105 SCI(E) journal publications, and achieved an H-index of 35. Her expertise extends to consultancy and industry projects, editorial roles in Frontiers in Bioscience-Landmark and Diseases & Research, and authorship of two books. She actively collaborates with global researchers and holds leadership positions, including Chairperson of the Academic Committee of the Korean Pharmaceutical Society and President of the Woman Bioscience Forum, mentoring future scientists.

🌍Research and Innovations: 

Professor. Eun Sook Hwang has made significant contributions to immunology, cell biology, and pharmacology through her extensive research and innovations. She has led 12 national research projects and published 105 SCI(E) journal articles, accumulating 4,867 citations with an H-index of 35. Her studies on immune regulation, T-cell differentiation, and inflammation have paved the way for novel therapies in autoimmune diseases, cancer, and fibrosis. She has authored two books, contributed to three industry projects, and holds editorial roles in prestigious journals. Her global collaborations and research on small molecules and tissue regeneration have advanced drug development and biomedical science.

💡Recognition and Impact:

Professor. Eun Sook Hwang has received numerous accolades for her groundbreaking contributions to immunology, cell biology, and pharmacology. Her extensive research, spanning 105 SCI(E) publications and 12 nationally funded projects, has earned global recognition. She holds editorial positions in Frontiers in Bioscience-Landmark and Diseases & Research and has collaborated with leading institutions such as NIH and NYU Langone. As Chairperson of the Academic Committee of the Korean Pharmaceutical Society and President of the Woman Bioscience Forum, she has been honored for her leadership and mentorship. Her dedication to scientific excellence continues to shape biomedical research and innovation worldwide.

Conclusion:

Professor. Hwang’s exemplary research output, leadership in scientific communities, and dedication to mentoring future researchers make her a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her pioneering studies have significantly influenced biomedical research, fostering innovation and scientific progress on a global scale

 

📚Publication Top Notes

TAZ, a transcriptional modulator of mesenchymal stem cell differentiation

Citation: 1190

Year: 2005

📑🧬

T helper cell fate specified by kinase-mediated interaction of T-bet with GATA-3

Citation: 759

Year: 2005

🔬🧬

T-bet represses TH17 differentiation by preventing Runx1-mediated activation of the gene encoding RORγt

Citation: 520

Year: 2011

🧬📚

TBX21: a functional variant predicts improvement in asthma with the use of inhaled corticosteroids

Citation: 236

Year: 2004

🌿💨

Shear stress induced by an interstitial level of slow flow increases the osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells through TAZ activation

Citation: 222

Year: 2014

⚙️🦴

IL-2 production in developing Th1 cells is regulated by heterodimerization of RelA and T-bet and requires T-bet serine residue 508

Citation: 192

Year: 2005

🧬🦠

T-bet-dependent expression of osteopontin contributes to T cell polarization

Citation: 179

Year: 2005

🔬🦠

Extracellular matrix stiffness regulates osteogenic differentiation through MAPK activation

Citation: 133

Year: 2015

🧬⚙️

T-bet polymorphisms are associated with asthma and airway hyperresponsiveness

Citation: 133

Year: 2006

🌿💨

Spontaneous and aging-dependent development of arthritis in NADPH oxidase 2 deficiency through altered differentiation of CD11b+ and Th/Treg cells

Citation: 131

Year: 2011

🧬🦴

Agustina Costa | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Agustina Costa | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Agustina Costa, Anlis-Malbran, Argentina.

Agustina Costa is a highly accomplished biologist and researcher specializing in microbiology and biochemistry. She earned her PhD in Pharmacy and Biochemistry from the University of Buenos Aires in 2023, where she achieved an outstanding grade for her thesis focused on detecting β-lactamases in Enterobacterales using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Agustina also holds a Licenciatura in Biological Sciences from Universidad Favaloro and has over 17 years of professional experience in renowned institutions like INEI-ANLIS-MALBRAN and Hospital Alemán. Her research expertise is showcased in numerous high-impact publications, particularly in the fields of microbial diagnostics and antimicrobial resistance. She has presented her findings at over 15 national and international conferences and has contributed to various research projects funded by ANPCyT and CONICET. Fluent in English and skilled in advanced genomic analysis, Agustina is dedicated to advancing the field of microbiology and improving public health through innovative research.

Professional Profile:

Scopus

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Agustina Costa, PhD in Pharmacy and Biochemistry from the University of Buenos Aires, demonstrates exceptional expertise in microbiology with a specialized focus on using MALDI-TOF MS for the rapid detection of β-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales. Her academic background, complemented by a Licenciatura in Biological Sciences, reflects a strong foundation in microbial research and diagnostic methodologies. Throughout her career, she has been affiliated with prestigious institutions, including INEI-ANLIS-MALBRAN and Hospital Alemán, where she honed her skills in microbiology and molecular biology.

🎓 Education:

Agustina Costa has a strong academic foundation, highlighted by a PhD in Pharmacy and Biochemistry from the University of Buenos Aires (2023), where she achieved an “Outstanding” grade for her thesis on β-lactamase detection using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry. Her academic journey began with a Licenciatura in Biological Sciences from Universidad Favaloro, complemented by technical training in microbiology. This blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills demonstrates her commitment to scientific excellence and specialized expertise in microbiology and biochemistry

💼Professional Experience:

Agustina Costa has over 17 years of diverse experience in microbiology, working in prominent institutions such as INEI-ANLIS-MALBRAN and Hospital Alemán. Currently, she serves as a professional in the Enterobacteria Service, showcasing her hands-on expertise in microbiological research and diagnostics. Her previous roles span from molecular biology techniques to quality control in microbiology, reflecting her comprehensive knowledge in clinical and laboratory settings

🌍 Publications and Research Contributions

Agustina Costa has an impressive portfolio of publications, including multiple research articles in high-impact journals such as Pathogens, Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology, and Journal of Microbiological Methods. Her work primarily focuses on the use of MALDI-TOF MS for rapid microbial identification and antimicrobial resistance detection, highlighting her contributions to advancing diagnostic microbiology. Notably, her research on KPC detection and the genomic characterization of resistant plasmids demonstrates her commitment to addressing critical challenges in public health.

🥇Award and Honors:

Agustina Costa has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to microbiology and biochemistry through multiple awards and honors. She has presented her groundbreaking research at over 15 prestigious national and international conferences, including ASM Microbe, SADI-Argentina, and SADEBAC-Argentina, where she often served as the first author. Agustina has also secured competitive research grants from ANPCyT and CONICET, reflecting her ability to lead impactful scientific projects. Her innovative work in microbial diagnostics, particularly in using MALDI-TOF MS for rapid pathogen detection, has earned her accolades within the scientific community, solidifying her reputation as a leader in the field of microbiology.

Conclusion:

Agustina Costa stands out as a highly skilled researcher with a robust background in microbiology and biochemistry. Her extensive academic achievements, highlighted by a PhD with distinction from the University of Buenos Aires, are complemented by over 17 years of professional experience in prominent research institutions. Agustina’s impressive portfolio of high-impact publications, particularly in antimicrobial resistance and microbial diagnostics using MALDI-TOF MS, demonstrates her expertise and contributions to public health. Her active engagement in scientific conferences and successful grant applications further solidify her reputation as a leading researcher. Overall, Agustina’s dedication and accomplishments make her a strong contender for the Research for Best Researcher

📖 Publication Top Notes

  1. MALDI-TOF MS-Based KPC Direct Detection from Patients’ Positive Blood Culture Bottles, Short-Term Cultures, and Colonies at the Hospital | 3 citations 📊

  2. Co-Occurrence of NDM-5 and RmtB in a Clinical Isolate of Escherichia coli Belonging to CC354 in Latin America | 12 citations 📊

  3. Bacteremia and Sepsis by Arcanobacterium haemolyticum in a Young Immunocompetent Patient| 4 citations 📊

  4. MALDI-TOF MS Based Procedure to Detect KPC-2 Directly from Positive Blood Culture Bottles and Colonies |33 citations 📊