Jana Wattar | Pharmacology | Women Researcher Award

Women Researcher Award

Jana K. Al Wattar
Lebanese International University,  Lebanon
Jana K. Al Wattar
Affiliation Lebanese International University
Country Lebanon
Scopus ID 56999102300
Documents 9
Citations 172
h-index 5
Subject Area Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science
Event International Academic Achievements & Awards

Jana K. Al Wattar is a Lebanese pharmaceutical scientist, academic researcher, and Assistant Professor specializing in pharmaceutical sciences, nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems, and translational nanomedicine. Her research primarily focuses on smart lipid-based nanocarriers for cancer therapeutics and neurodegenerative disorders, with emphasis on enhancing therapeutic efficacy, improving drug bioavailability, and overcoming multidrug resistance mechanisms.[1]

Over more than a decade of academic and professional engagement, Dr. Al Wattar has contributed extensively to pharmaceutical education, interdisciplinary nanomedicine research, and international scientific collaboration. Her work integrates pharmaceutical technology, nanotechnology, biotechnology, and biomedical innovation through collaborative partnerships across Lebanon, the Gulf region, and international academic institutions.[2]

Abstract

Jana K. Al Wattar has established a distinguished research profile in pharmaceutical sciences with specialization in nanotechnology-based therapeutic delivery systems for oncology and neurological disorders. Her scientific contributions encompass the formulation, optimization, and characterization of smart nanocarriers, including nanovesicles, nanosponge systems, liposomal nanohybrids, electrohydrodynamic nanofibers, and stimuli-responsive drug delivery platforms.[3]

Her work demonstrates interdisciplinary integration of pharmaceutical technology, nanomedicine, biomaterials, and translational therapeutics. In addition to publishing in internationally recognized journals, she has actively contributed to scientific conferences, secured competitive research grants, supervised collaborative projects, and established institutional research partnerships across the Middle East and beyond.[4]

Keywords

Nanomedicine; Pharmaceutical Technology; Drug Delivery Systems; Lipid Nanocarriers; Cancer Therapeutics; Neurodegenerative Disorders; Smart Nanovesicles; Nanotechnology; Biomaterials; Pharmaceutical Biotechnology; Liposomal Systems; Targeted Drug Delivery; Tissue Engineering; Translational Medicine; Pharmaceutical Sciences

Introduction

Advances in nanotechnology and pharmaceutical sciences have transformed the development of targeted therapeutic systems for complex diseases including cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. Researchers in pharmaceutical nanotechnology contribute significantly to improving therapeutic outcomes through innovative drug delivery systems that enhance bioavailability, stability, specificity, and patient safety. Dr. Jana K. Al Wattar has contributed to this evolving field through sustained academic research focused on nanocarrier engineering, smart drug delivery systems, and translational pharmaceutical applications.[5]

Her research vision aims to establish a translational nanomedicine platform in the Levant region that addresses unmet therapeutic challenges associated with drug resistance, poor bioavailability, and targeted treatment delivery. Her academic and scientific activities demonstrate commitment to regional research development, scientific leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Research Profile

Dr. Al Wattar currently serves as a Full-time Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Lebanese International University in Beirut, Lebanon. Her teaching portfolio includes pharmaceutics, dosage forms, pharmaceutical calculations, physical pharmacy, compounding laboratories, biotechnology laboratories, and pharmacy practice experience courses.

Her academic experience spans more than twelve years in higher education, during which she has contributed to undergraduate and postgraduate mentorship, pharmaceutical curriculum development, and scientific supervision. Prior to her current appointment, she served as Lecturer Assistant at Beirut Arab University and Instructor at Lebanese International University.

Her doctoral studies in Pharmaceutical Technology and Industrial Pharmacy at Beirut Arab University focused on innovative nanotechnology-based formulations and advanced pharmaceutical delivery systems. Her academic trajectory has consistently emphasized pharmaceutical innovation and translational therapeutic applications.

Research Contributions

Dr. Al Wattar has contributed substantially to nanomedicine research through development and optimization of advanced drug delivery systems. Her investigations focus on enhancing therapeutic efficacy while minimizing toxicity through rational nanocarrier design and smart pharmaceutical engineering strategies.

  • Development of lipid-based nanocarriers for targeted cancer therapeutics.
  • Optimization of nanovesicle systems for neurological and neuroinflammatory disorders.
  • Investigation of smart stimuli-responsive liposomal nanohybrid systems for theranostic applications.
  • Research on electrohydrodynamic atomization for fast-dissolving drug delivery systems.
  • Studies involving thymoquinone-loaded nanosystems for oxidative stress modulation and anticancer activity.
  • Collaborative interdisciplinary projects involving biomaterials, tissue engineering, and pharmaceutical biotechnology.

Her collaborative network extends across leading institutions in Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, and Egypt, demonstrating active international scientific engagement in pharmaceutical nanotechnology and translational biomedical sciences.

Publications

Jana K. Al Wattar has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in pharmaceutical sciences, nanomedicine, and drug delivery research. Her scholarly work focuses on lipid nanovesicles, smart nanocarriers, cancer therapeutics, neurodegenerative disorders, and pharmaceutical biotechnology, contributing to advancements in targeted drug delivery systems and translational pharmaceutical innovation.

Research Impact

Dr. Al Wattar’s research contributes to advancing pharmaceutical nanotechnology and translational medicine in the Middle East region. Her work on smart nanocarrier systems addresses critical biomedical challenges related to targeted therapy, controlled drug release, and therapeutic optimization.

Her scholarly contributions have been recognized through multiple academic distinctions, including research grants, best oral presentation awards, poster awards, and competitive doctoral scholarships. These recognitions reflect sustained engagement in innovative pharmaceutical research and academic leadership.

Beyond publications, her impact is evident in scientific mentorship, supervision of institutional collaborations, and active involvement in regional capacity-building initiatives related to pharmaceutical sciences and biomedical innovation.

Award Suitability

Dr. Jana K. Al Wattar demonstrates qualifications aligned with the criteria of an Outstanding Researcher Award through her interdisciplinary scientific contributions, international collaborations, research leadership, and commitment to pharmaceutical innovation.

  • Extensive expertise in nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems.
  • Strong publication profile in pharmaceutical and nanomedicine journals.
  • Leadership in regional and international collaborative research initiatives.
  • Successful acquisition of competitive research grants and academic awards.
  • Long-standing commitment to pharmaceutical education, mentorship, and scientific capacity building.

Conclusion

Dr. Jana K. Al Wattar represents a significant emerging voice in pharmaceutical nanotechnology and translational drug delivery research. Her academic profile combines innovative scientific investigation, interdisciplinary collaboration, educational leadership, and regional research development. Through sustained contributions to nanomedicine, targeted therapeutics, and pharmaceutical sciences, she continues to strengthen scientific advancement within the Levant region and the broader international biomedical research community.

References

  1. Lebanese International University. (2026). Faculty profile of Dr. Jana K. Al Wattar.
  2. Beirut Arab University. (2025). Academic and research activities in pharmaceutical sciences.
  3. Alwattar, J.K., et al. (2021). Smart stimuli-responsive liposomal nanohybrid systems: A critical review of theranostic behavior in cancer. Pharmaceutics.
  4. AAU Health & Biomedical Symposium. (2024). Conference awards and scientific participation records.
  5. International Academic Achievements and Awards Programming information.                          International Academic Achievements & Awards

Stuart Maudsley | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Stuart Maudsley | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Stuart Maudsley | Pharmacology – Professor at Moffitt Cancer Center, United States

Dr. Stuart Russell Maudsley is an esteemed researcher and principal investigator whose work has had a profound impact on the field of pharmacology, particularly in the study of G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). His career has been marked by significant contributions to cancer research, aging, and molecular gerontology, leading to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies aimed at treating complex human diseases. Dr. Maudsley’s work focuses on the precision targeting of GPCRs to develop treatments for a wide range of conditions, from cancer to neurodegenerative disorders, with a unique approach that blends basic science with clinical applications. He has been instrumental in leading transformative research at Moffitt Cancer Center and has earned widespread recognition for his contributions in both academia and industry.

Profile:

Scopus

Education:


Dr. Maudsley earned his Ph.D. in Pharmacology from the University of Leeds, UK, after completing a First-Class Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacology at the same institution. His doctoral research focused on electrophysiological and molecular biological studies of Tachykinin receptors, which set the stage for his continued exploration of receptor biology. His academic journey laid the groundwork for a career dedicated to uncovering the complex molecular mechanisms that regulate cellular behavior and how these processes can be manipulated for therapeutic purposes. His early education and research provided a foundation for his later innovations in the field of pharmacology and receptor therapeutics.

Experience:


Dr. Maudsley’s career spans several prestigious roles that highlight his leadership and expertise in pharmacology and receptor biology. He currently serves as the principal investigator at Moffitt Cancer Center, where he directs the Maudsley Lab, focusing on receptor biology and cancer therapeutics. His work is particularly notable for its precision in targeting GPCRs to treat cancer and other complex diseases. Dr. Maudsley also co-founded HeptOME – Receptor Therapeutics, and his position as a Special Science Advisor for the Belgian Superior Health Council reflects his international influence. His experience in both academic and industry settings has allowed him to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world therapeutic solutions.

Research Interests:


Dr. Maudsley’s primary research interest lies in the molecular and pharmacological study of GPCRs, a class of receptors that play a crucial role in various cellular processes. He focuses on understanding how these receptors regulate human diseases, particularly cancer, aging, and neurodegenerative disorders. By investigating the intricate mechanisms of GPCR signaling, Dr. Maudsley aims to develop novel targeted therapies that can improve treatment outcomes in these complex diseases. His research extends to systems pharmacology, which integrates multidimensional approaches to identify new drug targets and improve therapeutic strategies. Dr. Maudsley is particularly interested in the therapeutic application of GPCR-targeted medicines and their potential to treat diseases with unmet medical needs.

Awards:


Dr. Maudsley has received numerous accolades for his pioneering research in pharmacology and receptor biology. His work has been consistently recognized for its potential to revolutionize therapeutic strategies for cancer and aging-related diseases. He has been invited to speak at prestigious international conferences and has received several awards from scientific and medical societies for his contributions to understanding receptor biology. His recognition as a co-founder of HeptOME – Receptor Therapeutics further highlights his entrepreneurial spirit and ability to translate scientific discoveries into practical applications that benefit patients worldwide.

Publications:


Dr. Maudsley has an extensive publication record, contributing to major scientific journals and collaborative research projects. A few notable publications include:

  1. Maudsley S., Leysen H., van Gastel J., Martin B. (2021). Systems Pharmacology: Enabling Multidimensional Therapeutics, Reference Module in Biomedical Sciences. 📖
  2. Maudsley S., Schrauwen C., Harputluoğlu İ., Walter D., Leysen H., McDonald P. (2023). GPR19 Coordinates Multiple Molecular Aspects of Stress Responses Associated with the Aging Process, Int J Mol Sci. 🔬
  3. Schreurs G., Maudsley S., Nast C., Praet M., Da Silva Fernandes S., Boor P., D’Haese P., De Broe M.E., Vervaet B.A. (2023). Chronic Dehydration Induces Injury Pathways in Rats, Sci Rep. 🧪
  4. Maudsley S., Leysen H., Walter D., Vandoren R. (2023). GPCRs Regulate DNA Integrity, Encyclopedia – Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. 📑
  5. Coppens V., De Wachter O., Goossens J., Hendrix J., Maudsley S., Azmi A., van Gastel J., Van Saet A., Lauwers T., Morrens M. (2020). Profiling of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells for Schizophrenia Biomarkers, Neuropsychobiology. 🧠
  6. Van Meenen J., Leysen H., Chen H., Baccarne R., Walter D., Martin B., Maudsley S. (2022). Making Biomedical Sciences Publications More Accessible for Machines, Med Health Care Philos. 💻
  7. Leysen H., Maudsley S., Van Gastel J., Martin B. (2021). The RXFP3 Receptor is a Modulator of Aging-Related Disease, Int J Mol Sci. 🧬

Conclusion:


Dr. Stuart Russell Maudsley’s extensive contributions to pharmacology, especially in the area of GPCRs and their role in complex diseases, make him an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His research, which bridges the gap between basic science and clinical applications, continues to shape the future of precision medicine. Through his innovative work at Moffitt Cancer Center and his involvement in entrepreneurial ventures like HeptOME – Receptor Therapeutics, Dr. Maudsley has made a lasting impact on both academia and industry. His leadership in the field and his commitment to advancing therapeutic solutions for cancer, aging, and neurodegenerative diseases position him as a truly deserving nominee for this prestigious award.

Yagmur Okcay | Pharnacology, Medical Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Ms.Yagmur Okcay | Pharnacology, Medical Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

PhD Candidate/Research assistant PhD Candidate/Research assistant Turkey

Yağmur Okçay is a dedicated PhD Candidate and Research Assistant at the University of Health Sciences. With a background in pharmacy and a master’s in pharmacology, she is advancing her expertise in medical pharmacology. Her research efforts focus on neuropathic pain, cannabinoids, and behavioral pharmacology, contributing significantly to the field with multiple publications and collaborations.

profile

ORCiD

Education 🎓

Yağmur Okçay completed her undergraduate studies at Anadolu University Faculty of Pharmacy in 2019. She then pursued a master’s degree in Pharmacology. Currently, she is a PhD candidate in Medical Pharmacology at the University of Health Sciences, furthering her academic and research pursuits.

Experience 🏫

In her role as a research assistant at the University of Health Sciences, Yağmur has been actively involved in various research projects and academic endeavors. Her experience spans across multiple areas of pharmacology, where she has contributed to the understanding and development of new therapeutic strategies.

Research Interests 🔬

Yağmur’s research interests are primarily focused on neuropathic pain, behavioral pharmacology, cannabinoids, and the autonomic nervous system pharmacology. Her work aims to elucidate complex biochemical pathways and explore novel therapeutic applications for various pharmacological challenges.

Awards 🏆

Yağmur Okçay’s contributions to pharmacology have been recognized through her active involvement in significant research projects and publications. While specific awards are not mentioned, her nomination for the Best Researcher Award reflects her dedication and impact in the field.

Publications 📄

  1. Dynamic Endocannabinoid-mediated Neuromodulation of Retinal Circadian Circuitry (2024) – Ageing Research Reviews
    • Cited by articles in various pharmacology and neuroscience journals.
  2. Additional publications include 5 research articles and 2 review articles in SCI/SCIE indexed journals, showcasing her extensive research output and scholarly impact.