Marta Fioล‚ka | Microbiology | Excellence in Research Award

Prof. Marta Fioล‚ka | Microbiology | Excellence in Research Award

Prof. Marta Fioล‚ka, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University, Poland.

Dr. Marta Fioล‚ka is a professor at UMCS specializing in invertebrate immunology and biomedical research. She is renowned for her work on antimicrobial and anticancer compounds derived from earthworms ๐Ÿชฑ. With 12 patented inventions, numerous national awards ๐Ÿ†, and active international collaborations, she combines scientific innovation with public science outreach ๐Ÿ“ข. As a mentor, lecturer, and science promoter, Dr. Fioล‚ka inspires future researchers through her passion, creativity, and groundbreaking discoveries.

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๐ŸŽ“ Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Marta Fioล‚ka began her academic journey with a Masterโ€™s degree in Biology from Maria Curie-Skล‚odowska University (UMCS) in Lublin on June 17, 1993. Her thesis, under the supervision of Prof. Jan Jarosz, explored the โ€œEffect of hydrocortisone on the defensive reactions of larvae Galleria mellonella.โ€ She earned her PhD in Biological Sciences (specialty: Invertebrate Immunology) on April 12, 2006, with a dissertation titled โ€œLysozymes of selected invertebrate species as natural immune defence factors,โ€ supervised by Prof. Teresa Jakubowicz. On June 24, 2016, she was awarded the title of habilitated doctor for her research on โ€œAntimicrobial and anti-tumor substances from isolated bacteria and tissues of the earthworm Dendrobaena veneta.โ€ ๐Ÿงฌ๐Ÿ“š

๐Ÿ’ผ Professional Endeavors

Dr. Fioล‚kaโ€™s professional journey reflects her dedication to biological sciences. She began as a specialist in the Department of Animal and Environment Hygiene at the Agricultural University in Lublin (1993โ€“1998), before becoming an assistant at UMCS in the Department of Insect Pathology (1998โ€“2006). She continued her career at UMCS as an adjunct and later as a professor in the Department of Immunobiology, where she now serves as a full professor since 2019. Her international fellowships include training at the Medical University of Lublin and a research project in Japan at Chiba University under Prof. Nozomu Takeuchi. ๐ŸŒ๐Ÿ”ฌ

๐Ÿ”ฌ Contributions and Research Focus On Microbiologyย 

Dr. Fioล‚ka’s core research explores bioactive compounds from earthworms, focusing on their antimicrobial, antifungal, and anticancer properties. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates immunology, cell biology, and biotechnology. She has pioneered work on the coelomic fluid of Dendrobaena veneta, identifying key protein-polysaccharide complexes and metabolites with therapeutic potential. Her studies have resulted in 12 patented inventions and numerous peer-reviewed publications. She also leads a national research network involving several top Polish institutions. ๐Ÿ›๐Ÿงซ๐Ÿ’Š

๐ŸŒ Impact and Influence

Dr. Fioล‚ka has significantly advanced the field of invertebrate immunology and biomedicine. Her research has fostered collaborations across Poland and Japan, and she has served as reviewer of multiple doctoral theses and high-impact journal articles. She has mentored numerous students, promoted intellectual property awareness, and organized microbiology and flow cytometry laboratories. Her public outreach efforts, including lectures, exhibitions, and media appearances, highlight her commitment to science popularization and education. ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐Ÿซ๐Ÿ“ข

๐Ÿง  Research Skills

Dr. Fioล‚ka demonstrates proficiency in cell culture techniques, antimicrobial screening, immunoblotting, microscopic imaging, flow cytometry, and molecular biology. She skillfully integrates interdisciplinary methods to identify, isolate, and characterize bioactive compounds with therapeutic potential. Sheโ€™s a versatile researcher, equally adept at experimental design, patent development, and cross-institutional collaborations. ๐Ÿ”๐Ÿงซ๐Ÿงช

๐Ÿ… Awards and Honors

Dr. Fioล‚ka has received numerous accolades, including:

  • Scientific Award of the Minister of Science (2024) ๐Ÿ†

  • Marie Curie Research Award (2020)

  • Rectorโ€™s Awards (2015โ€“2023)

  • Silver Medal for Long-Term Work (2018)

  • National Education Committee Medal (2015)

  • Prime Ministerโ€™s Badge of Merit for Inventiveness (2015)

These honors underscore her excellence in scientific innovation, academic leadership, and public service. ๐ŸŽ–๏ธ๐ŸŽ“

๐Ÿ›๏ธ Legacy and Future Contributions

As a leading authority on the medical applications of earthworms, Dr. Fioล‚kaโ€™s legacy lies in bridging traditional biology with innovative medical biotechnology. She envisions expanding her research into nanomedicine and personalized therapies, continuing her collaboration with Chiba University and Polish medical institutions. As a founder and mentor of a thriving student research club, she is nurturing the next generation of scientists while advocating for intellectual property awareness in academia. Her work is setting a precedent for eco-friendly biomedical discovery. ๐ŸŒ๐Ÿง‘โ€๐ŸŽ“๐Ÿ”ฌ

Publications Top Notes

๐Ÿ“˜ 1. Preliminary proteomic analysis of mouse lung tissue treated with cyclophosphamide and Venetin-1

  • ๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ”ฌ Authors: P. Czaplewska, M. Muller, N. Musiaล‚, B. Tokarz-Deptuล‚a, M.J. Fioล‚ka

  • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Journal: Scientific Reports

  • ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2024

  • ๐Ÿงช Focus: Investigating protein-level changes in mouse lung tissue exposed to Venetin-1, a compound derived from earthworms.

  • ๐Ÿ” Keywords: Proteomics, lung tissue, cancer treatment, Venetin-1

๐Ÿ“˜ 2. Prospects of earthworm coelomic fluid as a potential therapeutic agent to treat cancer

  • ๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ”ฌ Authors: S. Haque, A. Hussain, A.H. Almalki, M.K. Srivastava, M.J. Fioล‚ka

  • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Journal: [Name not specified] (likely a peer-reviewed open access journal)

  • ๐Ÿ“… Year: Not specified (but likely 2023โ€“2024 based on listing)

  • ๐ŸŒฑ Focus: Reviews the therapeutic potential of earthworm coelomic fluid for oncological applications.
  • ๐Ÿ’Š Keywords: Earthworm-derived compounds, anticancer agents, coelomic fluid

๐Ÿ“˜ 3. Autophagy of Candida albicans cells after the action of earthworm Venetin-1 nanoparticle with protease inhibitor activity

  • ๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ”ฌ Authors: S. Wรณjcik-Mieszawska, K. Lewtak, E. Skwarek, J. Pawelec, M.J. Fioล‚ka

  • ๐Ÿ“ฐ Journal: Scientific Reports

  • ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2023

  • ๐Ÿงซ Focus: Explores how Venetin-1 nanoparticles derived from earthworms induce autophagy in Candida albicans fungi.

  • ๐Ÿฆ  Keywords: Antifungal therapy, Venetin-1, protease inhibitors, autophagy

Saleh Al-Muqar | Microbiology | Excellence in Research Award

Mr. Saleh Al-Muqar | Bacteriology | Excellence in Research Award

Mr. Saleh Al-Muqar, Albaydha University, Yemen.

๐Ÿงฌ Dr. Saleh Mohammed Saleh Al-Maaqar is a Yemeni researcher and Ph.D. candidate in Microbiological Sciences at King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia. He specializes in infectious diseases, nanotechnology, and antimicrobial resistance. With over 15 peer-reviewed publications, his work includes novel approaches to combat MDR bacteria and develop green nanoparticles. He also serves as a lecturer at Albaydha University, Yemen. His dedication reflects excellence in innovative biomedical research. ๐ŸŒฑ๐Ÿ”ฌ๐Ÿ“š

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๐ŸŽ“ Early Academic Pursuits

Saleh Mohammed Saleh Al-Maaqar began his academic journey with a strong foundation in Biological Sciences, earning his BSc in 2008 from Thamar University in Yemen. His commitment to knowledge led him to pursue an MSc in Biological Sciences at King Abdulaziz University (KAU), Saudi Arabia, which he completed in 2020. Driven by a passion for microbiological research, he is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Microbiological Sciences at the same institution, marking a significant milestone in his scholarly growth.

๐Ÿฅ Professional Endeavors

Saleh began his professional career as a teacher at the Ministry of Education in Yemen (2009โ€“2010). He later transitioned into academia as an Assistant Lecturer at Al-Baydha University (2010โ€“2014). These early roles allowed him to develop a strong pedagogical foundation while nurturing a research-oriented mindset that he would further cultivate during his doctoral journey in Saudi Arabia.

๐Ÿ”ฌ Contributions and Research Focus On Microbiology

Mr. Al-Maaqar has a deep research interest in infectious diseases, nanotechnology, and experimental medicine. His work includes food-borne pathogens like E. coli, Shigella, Salmonella, and Klebsiella, as well as multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria. Currently, his doctoral research explores the pharmacological properties of plant-based compounds such as Lavandula dentata, Capparis cartilage, and Saussurea costus, especially their effects on meningitis-causing bacteria.

๐ŸŒ Impact and Influence

Through his interdisciplinary approach, Mr. Al-Maaqar is contributing to global public health solutions by developing sustainable antimicrobial strategies. His research on nanoparticle synthesis using plant extracts and natural product-based therapeutics has opened promising avenues for addressing antibiotic resistance, a critical healthcare challenge worldwide.

๐Ÿง  Research Skills

Mr. Al-Maaqar is proficient in a range of advanced research techniques, including antimicrobial susceptibility testing (DDT, WDT, MIC, MBC, and time-kill curves), isolation and identification of bacteria, natural product extraction, and the use of software tools like SPSS, EndNote, and Mendeley. Additionally, he has a secretarial diploma in computer sciences, further supporting his data analysis and documentation capabilities.

๐Ÿ… Awards and Honors

While specific awards are not listed, Mr. Al-Maaqarโ€™s publication track record and international academic engagement signify high scholarly merit. His acceptance into a Ph.D. program at a top-tier university and collaboration with renowned scientists worldwide underscore his professional recognition and research excellence.

๐Ÿ›๏ธ Legacy and Future Contributions

As a rising scholar in microbiology and nanomedicine, Saleh Al-Maaqar is poised to leave a significant legacy through his ongoing research on plant-based antimicrobials and bacteriophage therapy. With the potential to develop eco-friendly therapeutic agents and reduce dependency on synthetic antibiotics, his future contributions are expected to influence both academia and industry. His vision aligns with global efforts toward sustainable healthcare innovations, and he is likely to become a prominent voice in the scientific community.

Publications Top Notes

  • ๐Ÿงช Biosynthesis of Novel Ag-Cu Bimetallic Nanoparticles from Leaf Extract of Salvia officinalis and Their Antibacterial Activity
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: Life 13 (3), 653
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 37
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2023

  • ๐Ÿฏ In vitro antibacterial activity of honey against multidrug-resistant Shigella sonnei
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice 41, 101257
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 22
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2020

  • ๐ŸŒฟ The effect of different aqueous solutions ratios of Ocimum basilicum utilized in AgNPs synthesis on the inhibition of bacterial growth
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: Scientific Reports 13 (1), 5866
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 16
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2023

  • โš—๏ธ Optimization of biocatalytic steps via response surface methodologyโ€ฆ
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: Catalysis Letters 153 (9), 2543โ€“2557
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 13
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2023

  • ๐ŸŒฑ Effect of Different Ratios of Mentha spicata Aqueous Solutionโ€ฆ
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: Journal of Nanomaterials 2023 (1), 3599501
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 10
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2023

  • ๐Ÿƒ Sensitivity of multidrug-resistant pathogenic bacteria to ethanolic extract of Ziziphus spina-christi L.
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: Bioscience Research 19 (3), 1467โ€“1475
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 10
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2022

  • ๐Ÿฏ Susceptibility of multidrug-resistant enteric pathogenic diarrheal Bacteria to Saudi Honey
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: JKAU: Science 32 (1), 47โ€“64
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 9
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2020

  • ๐ŸŒธ Phytochemical characterization and multifaceted bioactivityโ€ฆ Clinopodium nepeta
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: CyTA – Journal of Food 22 (1), 2348735
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 5
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2024

  • ๐Ÿ”ฌ Antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of extracts from sponge-associated bacterial endophytes
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: Preparative Biochemistry & Biotechnology 53 (9), 1143โ€“1153
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 5
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2023

  • ๐Ÿฏ SCREENING OF LACTIC ACID BACTERIA FROM SELECTED SAUDI HONEYโ€ฆ
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: โ€”
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 5
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2023

  • ๐ŸŒŠ Isolation and identification of biofilm bacteria from microfoulingโ€ฆ Red Sea
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: JKAU: Marine Science 31, 45โ€“54
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 5
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2021

  • ๐Ÿงซ Development of silver-doped copper oxide and chitosan nanocompositesโ€ฆ
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: Zeitschrift fรผr Naturforschung C 79 (5โ€“6), 137โ€“148
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 4
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2024

  • ๐Ÿงฒ Iron-Based Nanoparticles Synthesis, Characterization, and Antimicrobial Effectiveness
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: Advancements in Life Sciences 11 (2), 525โ€“532
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 3
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2024

  • ๐Ÿงผ Optimization and Detergent Compatibility of Protease from Aspergillus oryzaeโ€ฆ
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: ACS Omega 9, 17446โˆ’17457
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 3
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2024

  • ๐Ÿงซ Bactericidal Activity of Coleus forskohlii Extract Against MDR Acinetobacter baumannii
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: Bioscience Biotechnology Research Communications 14 (3), 1265โ€“1271
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 2
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2021

  • ๐Ÿ„ Serological investigation of Coxiella burnetii in livestock in Makkah Province
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: Veterinary World 17 (4), 842โ€“847
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 1
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2024

  • ๐Ÿœ๏ธ Screening Desert Soils in Makkah Province for Actinomycetes Producing Antibiotics
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: โ€”
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 1
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2021

  • ๐Ÿฏ Evaluation of the antibacterial activity of local honey against bacteria causing diarrhea
    ๐Ÿ“˜ Journal: King Abdulaziz University Jeddah
    ๐Ÿ”ข Citations: 1
    ๐Ÿ“… Year: 2020