Africa Holguin | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Africa Holguin | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Africa Holguin | Microbiology – Investigador at Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria – IRYCIS, Spain

Dr. Africa Holguín is a globally respected virologist and the Head of the HIV-1 Molecular Epidemiology Laboratory at IRYCIS – Hospital Ramón y Cajal in Madrid, Spain. Her work has significantly advanced the global understanding of HIV genetic variability, antiretroviral resistance, and viral surveillance. She has been a leading figure in molecular virology research for over two decades and is especially recognized for her studies on non-B HIV-1 subtypes, viral quasispecies, and the epidemiological patterns of drug resistance mutations. With over 5,300 citations and more than 100 publications, Dr. Holguín is a key contributor to the global HIV research community and a scientific leader in infectious disease molecular diagnostics.

Academic Profile:

ORCID

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Education:

Dr. Holguín completed her graduate studies in biological sciences with a specialization in virology and molecular biology. Her academic training emphasized molecular diagnostics and viral genomics, providing her with the tools to engage in complex viral surveillance projects. She later deepened her specialization in infectious diseases through advanced research training, equipping her to lead cross-disciplinary studies on the molecular epidemiology of HIV and other RNA viruses.

Experience:

With over 25 years of experience in clinical virology and molecular epidemiology, Dr. Holguín has led numerous high-impact national and international research projects. Her role as the head of a specialized research laboratory has allowed her to supervise a range of HIV-related studies, including drug resistance surveillance, viral genetic analysis, and epidemiological modeling. She collaborates with global health bodies and research consortia and has worked extensively on patient cohorts including immigrants, children, and treatment-naïve populations. She also provides expert input for public health decision-making and clinical guideline development.

Research Interests:

Dr. Holguín’s research focuses on the molecular evolution of HIV-1, especially non-B subtypes, and how natural genetic polymorphisms affect treatment outcomes. She investigates antiretroviral resistance, viral quasispecies, and genetic recombination events that impact diagnosis and therapy. Her interests extend to real-world applications, such as viral load testing accuracy and genotype interpretation systems. Recently, she has contributed to molecular surveillance of SARS-CoV-2, showcasing her adaptability and leadership in emerging infectious disease research.

Awards:

Dr. Holguín has received multiple accolades and recognitions for her contributions to virology and public health. Her work has influenced global HIV treatment strategies, and she has participated in advisory panels and policy-shaping discussions at the national and international level. She has also received institutional recognition for her mentorship and leadership in scientific research and has played a key role in developing Spain’s HIV molecular monitoring infrastructure.

Selected Publications 📚:

  1. 📘 “Global and regional molecular epidemiology of HIV-1, 1990–2015: a systematic review” – The Lancet Infectious Diseases, 2019 – Cited by 457
  2. 📗 “Impact of HIV-1 subtype and antiretroviral therapy on protease and reverse transcriptase genotype” – PLoS Medicine, 2005 – Cited by 393
  3. 📙 “Pol gene quasispecies of HIV: mutations associated with drug resistance in untreated patients” – Journal of Virology, 1995 – Cited by 274
  4. 🧬 “Evolution of SARS-CoV-2 structural proteins from the start of the pandemic to September 2020” – Viruses, 2021 – Cited by 113
  5. 📒 “High prevalence of HIV-1 subtype G and natural polymorphisms among immigrants in Madrid” – AIDS, 2002 – Cited by 98
  6. 📕 “Prevalence of HIV-1 non-B subtypes, syphilis, HTLV, and hepatitis in immigrant sex workers in Spain” – Journal of Medical Virology, 2004 – Cited by 83
  7. 📓 “Efficacy of antiretroviral therapy in individuals infected with HIV-1 non-B subtypes” – AIDS Reviews, 2006 – Cited by 81

Conclusion:

Dr. Africa Holguín’s remarkable research record, impactful collaborations, and long-term leadership in the field of HIV molecular epidemiology make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her commitment to scientific excellence, especially in the areas of viral resistance and subtype diversity, has contributed to meaningful advancements in clinical care and global health policy. With a strong citation record, consistent publication output, and a multidisciplinary approach to emerging infectious diseases, Dr. Holguín exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher whose work continues to shape the future of virology and public health.

 

 

Dr. Israa Malli | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Israa Malli | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Israa Malli | Microbiology – Associate Professor at ksauhs, Saudi Arabia

Dr. Israa Abdullah Malli is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of microbiology with a focus on infectious diseases and medical education. She holds the position of Assistant Professor of Microbiology at a prominent health sciences university, where she is deeply involved in teaching, research, and mentorship. Dr. Malli’s work emphasizes the intersection of microbiology, epidemiology, and biotechnology, contributing significantly to both academic and scientific communities. She has made notable advancements in understanding microbial behavior, antibiotic resistance, and the role of probiotics in health. Additionally, her leadership roles in academic committees reflect her commitment to shaping the next generation of health professionals.

Profile Verified:

Orcid | Scopus

Education:

Dr. Malli’s educational background is rooted in prestigious institutions. She earned her Ph.D. in Microbiology from Howard University, Washington, DC, in 2017, where her research focused on the molecular mechanisms of bacterial resistance. She holds a Master’s in Biotechnology from The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC, and a Bachelor of Medical Laboratories from King Abdul-Aziz University. She also completed her Master’s in Medical Education from King Saud Bin-Abdul-Aziz University for Health Sciences in 2020, further enhancing her ability to contribute to educational advancements in medical sciences.

Experience:

With over a decade of experience, Dr. Malli has held various academic and administrative roles. She has been serving as Assistant Professor of Microbiology and Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs at King Saud Bin-Abdul-Aziz University for Health Sciences. Her responsibilities include designing and coordinating microbiology courses, delivering lectures, and providing one-on-one mentorship to students. In addition, she has served in leadership capacities such as the In-Charge of the Assessment Unit and Deputy Chair of the Department of Basic Medical Sciences, where she helped enhance the academic framework of the university. Her leadership in academic and research committees has shaped several key initiatives aimed at improving student outcomes and fostering a culture of scientific inquiry.

Research Interests:

Dr. Malli’s research interests primarily focus on the molecular biology of infectious diseases, specifically the mechanisms behind antibiotic resistance and the use of probiotics for improving patient health. Her research into the role of reactive oxygen species in bacterial disinfection processes has contributed to advancing the understanding of bacterial resistance mechanisms, particularly in foodborne pathogens like Salmonella. Dr. Malli also explores the potential of probiotics in mitigating health complications in cancer patients. Her interdisciplinary research combines microbiology, biotechnology, and medical education to address critical global health challenges, particularly those concerning antimicrobial resistance.

Awards:

Dr. Malli has received numerous accolades throughout her academic career, underscoring her contributions to research and education. Notably, she has been recognized for her mentorship, with several of her students winning prestigious awards at research forums. Her efforts in advancing medical research have been acknowledged with Certificates of Appreciation for her role in scientific committees and research forums. These honors reflect her dedication to fostering an environment of excellence and scholarly achievement within the academic community. Her leadership in educational innovation and student mentorship has also been widely recognized.

Publications:

Dr. Malli has authored several impactful research articles in peer-reviewed journals, contributing significantly to her field. Here are some of her notable publications:

  1. “Application of Eugenol to Control Salmonella in Poultry” (Veterinary Sciences, 2023) 🐔 This article explores the use of eugenol as a potential agent to control Salmonella in poultry, providing insights into natural antimicrobial interventions.
  2. “Sublethal Chlorine Concentration and Antibiotic Resistance in Salmonella” (Applied Microbiology, 2024) 🧫 In this study, Dr. Malli investigates the relationship between sublethal chlorine concentrations and the development of antibiotic resistance in Salmonella, contributing to the understanding of resistance mechanisms in food safety.
  3. “Reactive Oxygen Species Mediate the Bactericidal Activity of Chlorine Against Salmonella” (Current Microbiology, 2024) 💡 This research delves into the bactericidal properties of chlorine, showing how reactive oxygen species play a critical role in eliminating Salmonella.
  4. “Probiotic Potential of Bifidobacterium in Cancer Patients” (Acta Microbiologica Bulgarica, 2024) 🦠 Dr. Malli’s research on probiotics highlights their therapeutic potential in cancer patients, showing the significance of gut microbiota in cancer management.
  5. “From Inflammation to Cancer: Genetic Polymorphisms and Gastric Cancer” (Springer, 2021) 🧬 This work examines genetic polymorphisms and their connection to gastric cancer susceptibility, offering insights into molecular pathways involved in cancer development.
  6. “Host-Targeted Antivirals and HIV-1 Infection Mechanisms” (Preprints, 2021) 🦠 In this article, Dr. Malli discusses how host-targeted antivirals can inhibit HIV-1 infection by affecting key viral mechanisms, adding to the broader field of antiviral research.
  7. “Coinfection of Hepatitis B and C Viruses and Risk of Hepatocellular Carcinoma” (Journal of Global Infectious Diseases, 2024) 🦠 This publication provides a comprehensive meta-analysis of how co-infection with hepatitis B and C viruses contributes to the risk of liver cancer, influencing future clinical approaches to hepatitis treatment.

Conclusion:

Dr. Israa Abdullah Malli’s academic and research contributions are impressive and deserving of the Best Researcher Award. Her work in microbiology, specifically her research on antimicrobial resistance and probiotics, has added significant value to the scientific community. Additionally, her commitment to education and mentorship has left a lasting impact on students and fellow researchers alike. As she continues to expand her research and foster interdisciplinary collaborations, Dr. Malli is poised to contribute even more to global health challenges, particularly in the areas of infectious diseases and cancer. Her work exemplifies the power of academic rigor combined with compassionate mentorship, making her a highly deserving nominee for this prestigious award.

 

 

 

 

Marcos Herkenhoff | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Marcos Herkenhoff | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Post doctoral | University of São Paulo | Brazil

Marcos Herkenhoff is a distinguished researcher and veterinarian specializing in molecular diagnostics, genetics, and multiomics. With advanced degrees in veterinary medicine and genetics, and extensive international experience, he has contributed significantly to various scientific fields, including animal health, brewing technology, and nutrigenomics. Herkenhoff has published numerous articles, funded multiple research projects, and is recognized for his innovative work on probiotic beers and genetic markers in animals.

Profile

SCOPUS

Education

Marcos Herkenhoff completed his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine at Santa Catarina State University (UDESC) in 2010, followed by a Master’s degree in Animal Science (Animal Production) in 2013. He earned his Ph.D. in Biological Sciences (Genetics) from São Paulo State University “Júlio de Mesquita Filho” (UNESP-Botucatu) in 2017, with postdoctoral research at the University of São Paulo (USP) from 2019 to 2024.

Experience

Herkenhoff’s professional experience spans roles as a founding partner and responsible veterinarian at Equus Group, where he focused on equine genetics and athletic performance traits. He has also worked as a postdoctoral researcher in food technology, developing a non-alcoholic probiotic beer, and served as a research assistant and guest researcher at Technische Hochschule Wildau in Germany. His teaching roles included assistant professor positions in molecular genetics and animal improvement.

Research Interest

Herkenhoff’s research interests include human and animal molecular diagnostics, population genetics, immunogenetics, and multiomics. His work explores genetic potential optimization in livestock, enhances animal health, and improves industrial fermentation processes. Notable projects include the development of a probiotic beer and investigations into the genetic markers for athletic performance.

Awards

Herkenhoff has received multiple grants from FAPESP for his research projects. His innovative contributions to molecular diagnostics and multiomics applications in brewing technology and genetics have been recognized within the scientific community.

Publication

Herkenhoff, M. E.; Brödel, O.; Frohme, M. Aroma component analysis by HS-SPME/GC–MS to characterize Lager, Ale, and sour beer styles. Food Research International, in-press, 2024.

Herkenhoff, M. E.; Medeiros, I.U.D.; Garutti, L.H.G.; Salgaco, M.K.; Sivieri, K.; Saad, S.M.I. Prebiotic and probiotic potential of fermented milk with cashew (Anacardium occidentale) by-products evaluated in microbiome model. Food Bioscience, v. 61, p. 104669, 2024.

Herkenhoff, M. E. The Probiotic Paradox: Thriving in High-Hopped Sour Beer. Journal of the American Society of Brewing Chemists, v. 1, p. 1-9, 2024.

Herkenhoff, M.E.; De Medeiros, I.U.D.; Garutti, L.H.G.; Salgaco, M.K.; Sivieri, K.; Saad, S.M.I. Cashew By-Product as a Functional Substrate for the Development of Probiotic Fermented Milk. Foods, v. 12, p. 3383, 2023.

Herkenhoff, M. E.; Bajay, M.M.; Costamilan, C.A.V.L.R. Genetic Structure and Biodiversity in Wild Centropomus parallelus and in Wild and Recently Domesticated Centropomus undecimallis Populations. Life-Basel, v. 13, p. 1595, 2023.

Herkenhoff, M. E.; Battistini, C.; Praia, A. B.; Rossini, B. C.; dos Santos, L. D.; Brödel, O.; Frohme, M.; Saad, S. M. I. The combination of omics strategies to evaluate starter and probiotic strains in the Catharina sour Brazilian-style beer. FOOD RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL, v.167, p.112704, 2023.

Praia, A.B.; Herkenhoff, M.E.; Broedel, O.; Frohme, M.; Saad, S.M.I. Sour Beer with Lacticaseibacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei F19: Feasibility and Influence of Supplementation with Spondias mombin L. Juice and/or By-Product. FOODS, v. 11, p. 4068, 2022.

Herkenhoff, M. E.; Bovolenta, L. A.; Broedel, O.; dos Santos, L. D.; de Oliveira, A. C.; Chuffa, L. G.A.; Ribeiro, A. O.; Lupi, Luiz A.; Dias, M.A.D.; Hilsdorf, A.W.S.; Frohme, M.; Pinhal, D. Variant expression signatures of microRNAs and protein related to growth in a crossbreed between two strains of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). GENOMICS, v. 113, p. 4303-4312, 2021.

Ribeiro, A.O.; Oliveira, A.C.; Costa, J.M.; Nachtigall, P.G.; Herkenhoff, M.E.; Campos, V.F.; Delella, F.K.; Pinhal, D. MicroRNA roles in regeneration: Multiple lessons from zebrafish. DEVELOPMENTAL DYNAMICS, v. 1, p.01 – 21, 2021.

Battistini, C.; Herkenhoff, M. E.; de Souza Leite, M.; Vieira, A. D. S.; Bedani, R.; Saad, S. M. I. Brewer’s Spent Grain Enhanced the Recovery of Potential Probiotic Strains in Fermented Milk After Exposure to In Vitro-Simulated Gastrointestinal Conditions. Probiotics and Antimicrobial Proteins, v. 1, p. 01, 2021.

Conclusion

Marcos Herkenhoff is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His diverse expertise, international experience, and significant contributions to science make him a strong contender. To further strengthen his candidacy, focusing on specialized areas within his broad research interests and emphasizing the practical applications and societal impact of his work would be beneficial. Overall, his impressive achievements and active role in advancing scientific knowledge position him as a worthy candidate for this award.