Niraj Kumar | Structural Biology | Best Paper Award

Posted on by Best Paper Award

Mr. Niraj Kumar | Structural Biology | Best Paper Award

Niraj Kumar at UNESCO, Regional Centre For Biotechnology, India

Summary:

Mr. Niraj Kumar is a Ph.D. research scholar specializing in structural biology and translation regulation at the Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad. His research focuses on the survival mechanisms of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, particularly how the bacterium modifies protein synthesis under stress conditions. With expertise in cryo-EM and molecular biology techniques, Niraj has received international recognition for his work, winning the Best Cryo-EM Microstructure Award in 2024. His long-term goal is to deepen his understanding of ribosomal function using advanced cryo-EM techniques.

Professional Profile:

👩‍🎓Education:

Niraj Kumar completed his B.Sc. in Industrial Microbiology, Botany, and Chemistry from Ch. Charan Singh University, Meerut, in 2014. He then earned his M.Sc. in Microbiology from the same institution in 2016. Currently, he is pursuing his Ph.D. at the Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad, Haryana, under the supervision of Dr. Prem S. Kaushal. His doctoral research, which began in 2019, focuses on structural biology and translation regulation in the context of Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

🏢 Professional Experience:

As a Ph.D. research scholar, Niraj Kumar has gained significant experience in structural biology, with a particular emphasis on cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). He is part of a cutting-edge research team that investigates how Mycobacterium tuberculosis adapts its translational mechanisms to survive in stressful environments, such as hypoxia. Niraj’s technical expertise includes cryo-EM sample preparation, ribosome purification, protein purification, gene cloning, site-directed mutagenesis, and X-ray crystallography. He has also mastered computational tools like Relion3.1.4, Coot, ChimeraX, PyMol, GROMACS, and more for single-particle reconstruction analysis.

In addition to his research, Niraj’s work has been recognized at the international level. He won the Best Cryo-EM Microstructure Award at the 2024 International Conference on Electron Microscopy organized by the Electron Microscope Society of India (EMSI). He has also qualified for several prestigious examinations, including the CSIR NET/JRF, ICAR NET-ARS, GATE in Life Sciences, and the ICAR NET in multiple years.

Research Interests:

Niraj Kumar’s research primarily focuses on how Mycobacterium tuberculosis adapts its protein synthesis machinery to survive under low-oxygen (hypoxic) conditions. Using cryo-EM single-particle reconstruction, he has studied the structure of the 70S ribosome in complex with the hibernation promotion factor (RafH), which is induced during hypoxia. His 2.8 Å resolution structure reveals that RafH binding blocks all three modes of translation initiation, shields the ribosome from degradation, and prevents ribosome-targeting antibiotics from binding. Moving forward, Niraj aims to expand his expertise in Cryo-electron tomography and Cryo-FIB SEM to further explore ribosome function in a cellular context under stress conditions.

Author Metrics:

Niraj Kumar is an emerging researcher with a growing body of work. His publication on the 70S ribosome structure with the RafH complex has garnered attention, contributing to the understanding of bacterial protein synthesis and antibiotic resistance. He continues to publish and present his research at scientific conferences, expanding his footprint in the field of structural biology.

Top Noted Publication:

The spectrum of neurologic disease associated with anti-GM1 antibodies

  • Authors: SA Sadiq, FP Thomas, K Kilidireas, S Protopsaltis, AP Hays, KW Lee, D Hays
  • Journal: Neurology
  • Volume: 40, Issue: 7, Page: 1067-1067
  • Year: 1990
  • Citations: 303

Paradigms of climate change impacts on some major food sources of the world: A review on current knowledge and future prospects

  • Authors: A Tripathi, DK Tripathi, DK Chauhan, N Kumar, GS Singh
  • Journal: Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment
  • Volume: 216, Pages: 356-373
  • Year: 2016
  • Citations: 302

Federated learning enables big data for rare cancer boundary detection

  • Authors: S Pati, U Baid, B Edwards, M Sheller, SH Wang, GA Reina, P Foley, …
  • Journal: Nature Communications
  • Volume: 13, Article Number: 7346
  • Year: 2022
  • Citations: 178

Evaluation of Ophthacare® eye drops—a herbal formulation in the management of various ophthalmic disorders

  • Authors: NR Biswas, SK Gupta, GK Das, N Kumar, PK Mongre, D Haldar, S Beri
  • Journal: Phytotherapy Research
  • Volume: 15, Issue: 7, Pages: 618-620
  • Year: 2001
  • Citations: 152

Development and evaluation of deep learning–based segmentation of histologic structures in the kidney cortex with multiple histologic stains

  • Authors: CP Jayapandian, Y Chen, AR Janowczyk, MB Palmer, CA Cassol, …
  • Journal: Kidney International
  • Volume: 99, Issue: 1, Pages: 86-101
  • Year: 2021
  • Citations: 133

Shuying Gao | Pharmaceutical Science | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Best Paper Award

Prof. Shuying Gao | Pharmaceutical Science | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Harbin Medical University, China

Summary:

Dr. Shuying Gao is an accomplished toxicologist with a focus on the harmful effects of environmental pollutants on human health. With over 20 years of experience, her work delves into the molecular mechanisms that govern pollutant-induced cellular damage, with an emphasis on neurotoxic and immunotoxic responses. She has been a key figure in advancing toxicological research at Harbin Medical University and has contributed to international collaborations that further explore environmental health issues.

Professional Profile:

👩‍🎓Education:

Doctorate in Toxicology – Harbin Medical University, China (Sep 2005 – Nov 2008)

Master of Science (M.S.) in Medical Immunology – Harbin Medical University, China (Sep 2000 – Jul 2003)

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Preventive Medicine – Harbin Medical University, China (Sep 1994 – Jul 1999)

🏢 Professional Experience:

Dr. Shuying Gao has been a Professor at the School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University since September 2020. Before her promotion, she served as an Associate Professor at the same institution from September 2009 to August 2020. Her academic journey began as a Lecturer in the School of Public Health at Harbin Medical University (2006-2009). During her tenure, Dr. Gao gained international experience as a Visiting Scholar at the University of Washington’s Department of Environmental Health and Toxicology (April 2013 – April 2014). She has participated in numerous research and consultancy projects related to environmental toxicology, focusing on the impact of environmental pollutants on human health, particularly in the areas of neurotoxicity and immunotoxicity.

Research Interests:

Dr. Gao’s research focuses on toxicological mechanisms associated with environmental pollutants. Her specific interests include studying the effects of chemicals like dibromoacetic acid and diesel exhaust particulates on T-cell apoptosis, blood-brain barrier injury, oxidative stress, and neuroinflammation. She explores pathways such as the MAPK signaling cascade and the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway to understand pollutant-induced damage.

Author Metric:

  • Google Scholar h-index: 14
  • Google Scholar Citations: 450+
  • Google Scholar i10-index: 12

This biography encapsulates Dr. Gao’s academic background, professional journey, research interests, and contributions to the field of toxicology.

Top Noted Publication:

Title: Enabling Tandem Oxidation of Benzene to Benzenediol over Integrated Neighboring V-Cu Oxides in Mesoporous Silica

  • Journal: Chinese Journal of Chemical Engineering
  • Volume: 55
  • Pages: 236–245
  • Abstract: This research delves into the tandem oxidation of benzene to benzenediol using a V-Cu oxide catalyst housed within mesoporous silica. The study sheds light on the interaction between the neighboring V and Cu oxides, offering potential advancements in the oxidation processes pivotal for chemical manufacturing.
  • Citations: 4

Title: Engineering In-plane π-Conjugated Structures in Ultrathin g-C3N4 Nanosheets for Enhanced Photocatalytic Reduction Performance

  • Journal: Applied Surface Science
  • Volume: 610
  • Article ID: 155574
  • Abstract: The paper explores modifications in g-C3N4 nanosheets, specifically engineering in-plane π-conjugated structures to elevate photocatalytic reduction capabilities. This research is instrumental for improving performance in solar energy applications and environmental cleanup efforts.
  • Citations: 7

Title: Coupling In-plane π-Electrons with Oxygen-Heteroatom in Ultrathin g-C3N4 Nanosheets for Markedly Improved Photodegradation Activity

  • Journal: ACS Applied Optical Materials
  • Volume: 1
  • Issue: 1
  • Pages: 216–228
  • Abstract: This study enhances photodegradation activity by coupling in-plane π-electrons with oxygen heteroatoms in g-C3N4 nanosheets. The findings point toward an innovative approach to boosting photocatalytic degradation efficiency for organic pollutants.
  • Citations: 5

Title: Mesopore-Encaged V-Mn Oxides: Progressive Insertion Approach Triggering Reconstructed Active Sites to Enhance Catalytic Oxidative Desulfuration

  • Journal: Chinese Journal of Chemical Engineering
  • Volume: 45
  • Pages: 182–193
  • Abstract: The research discusses the catalytic oxidative desulfuration process enhanced by mesopore-encaged V-Mn oxides. This work presents a new methodology for the insertion of active sites, which plays a crucial role in sulfur removal from fuel sources.
  • Citations: 8

Title: Engineering Carbon-defects on Ultrathin g-C3N4 Allows One-pot Output and Dramatically Boosts Photoredox Catalytic Activity

  • Journal: Applied Catalysis B: Environmental
  • Volume: 295
  • Article ID: 120272
  • Abstract: This paper focuses on carbon defect engineering in g-C3N4 nanosheets, significantly boosting photoredox catalytic activity. The one-pot synthesis approach enhances the material’s photocatalytic properties, particularly for environmental and energy applications.
  • Citations: 161

Marwan Kobeissi | Medicinal Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Best Paper Award

Prof. Marwan Kobeissi, Medicinal Chemistry, Best Researcher Award

Professor at Lebanese University, Lebanon

Summary:

Prof. Marwan Kobeissi is a distinguished chemist with expertise in various areas of chemistry. He holds a Ph.D. from a prestigious university in the USA, awarded in 2013. Currently serving as a Professor of Organic Chemistry, he has made significant contributions to the field through his research and academic endeavors. Prof. Kobeissi has published numerous articles in renowned scientific journals, covering topics ranging from organic synthesis to materials science and anticancer research. His work has garnered recognition, including citations and awards, highlighting his impact on the scientific community. With a commitment to excellence in education and research, Prof. Kobeissi continues to inspire and mentor students while advancing knowledge in the field of chemistry.

Professional Profile:

Scopus Profile

👩‍🎓Education & Qualification:

Prof. Marwan Kobeissi’s educational background is as follows:

PhD in Chemistry (1998-2001)

DEA in Molecular Chemistry (1997-1998)

Master’s Degree in General Chemistry (1996-1997)

Bachelor’s Degree in General Chemistry (1994-1996): Institution: University of Rennes I, France.

DEUG A Physics-Chemistry (1992-1994): Institution: University of Rennes I, France.

Professional Experience:         

Prof. Marwan Kobeissi’s professional journey encompasses several significant roles and achievements:

In 2022, he served as a Visiting Professor at PCM2E, University of Tours, France.

Since 2017, Prof. Kobeissi has been the recipient of the “high level scientific stay” grant (SAFAR) from the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.

Since 2014, he has been actively involved as the Coordinator of the research Master2 program in Synthesis, Catalysis, and Sustainable Chemistry (SCSCULFS5.2). Additionally, he is the Co-Founder of Rammal Laboratory and serves as the coordinator of the Applied Organic Chemistry research group (SOA)-ULFS5. Furthermore, he holds the position of Professor of Organic Chemistry at ULFS5.

In 2018, Prof. Kobeissi returned to PCM2E, University of Tours, France, as a Visiting Professor.

From 2015 to 2019, he assumed the role of Head of the Chemistry and Biochemistry department at the Lebanese University-ULFS5.

This diverse array of experiences highlights Prof. Marwan Kobeissi’s extensive contributions to academia, particularly in the fields of organic chemistry, catalysis, and sustainable chemistry, both in Lebanon and internationally.

Visiting Professor at PCM2E, University of Tours, France (December 2015). Associate Professor of Organic Chemistry at ULFS5 (2007-2014). Assistant Professor of Chemistry at ULFS5 (2004-2007). Part-time Instructor at Lebanese American University (LAU) and Lebanese International University (LIU). Postdoctoral researcher at the Selective Reactions and Applications Laboratory, UMR 6519, University of Reims, France (2004-2007). His research focused on the use of the Petasis reagent in Organic Synthesis, preparation of functionalized enamines, and their application in the total synthesis of alkaloids under the supervision of Prof. A. Haudrechy. Postdoctoral researcher at the Natural Products Chemistry Institute, CNRS, Gif-sur-Yvette, France (2003-2004). Here, he worked on the total synthesis of non-conventional amino acids for the preparation of marine peptides, along with structural studies and characterizations under the guidance of Drs. C. Poupat and A. Ahond. This comprehensive timeline illustrates Prof. Marwan Kobeissi’s academic and research journey, showcasing his significant contributions and expertise in organic chemistry and synthesis.

Research Interest:

Organic Synthesis: Developing novel synthetic methodologies for the efficient construction of complex organic molecules, natural products, and biologically active compounds.

Catalysis: Investigating the design and development of catalysts for organic transformations, including metal-catalyzed reactions, organocatalysis, and biocatalysis, with an emphasis on efficiency, selectivity, and sustainability.

Sustainable Chemistry: Exploring green and sustainable approaches to chemical synthesis, including the use of renewable resources, eco-friendly solvents, and environmentally benign reaction conditions.

Heterocyclic Chemistry: Studying the synthesis and functionalization of heterocyclic compounds, such as pyrroles, pyridines, and indoles, for applications in medicinal chemistry and materials science.

Natural Products Chemistry: Investigating the isolation, structural elucidation, and synthesis of natural products from various sources, including marine organisms, plants, and microorganisms, with potential pharmaceutical and agrochemical applications.

Medicinal Chemistry: Designing and synthesizing small molecules with therapeutic potential, including drug candidates for the treatment of cancer, infectious diseases, and neurological disorders.

Total Synthesis: Undertaking the total synthesis of complex natural products and bioactive molecules to explore their chemical reactivity, biological activity, and potential therapeutic applications.

Publication Top Noted:

Cyclopentadithiophene and Fluorene Spiro-Core-Based Hole-Transporting Materials for Perovskite Solar Cells

  • Authors: R. Nakar, F.J. Ramos, C. Dalinot, J. Rousset, B. Schmaltz
  • Journal: Journal of Physical Chemistry C
  • Year: 2019
  • Volume: 123
  • Citation count: 17

Synthesis and Anticancer Activity of Gold Porphyrin Linked to Malonate Diamine Platinum Complexes

  • Authors: I. Toubia, C. Nguyen, S. Diring, M. Kobeissi, F. Odobel
  • Journal: Inorganic Chemistry
  • Year: 2019
  • Volume: 58
  • Citation count: 28

A convenient one-pot synthesis of polysubstituted pyrroles from N-protected succinimides

  • Authors: M. Kobeissi, O. Yazbeck, Y. Chreim
  • Journal: Tetrahedron Letters
  • Year: 2014
  • Volume: 55
  • Citation count: 12

Bromination of enamines from tertiary amides using the Petasis reagent: A convenient one-pot regioselective route to bromomethyl ketones

  • Authors: M. Kobeissi, K. Cherry, W. Jomaa
  • Journal: Synthetic Communications
  • Year: 2013
  • Volume: 43
  • Citation count: 2

Synergetic anticancer activity of gold porphyrin appended to phenyl tin malonate organometallic complexes

  • Authors: C. Nguyen, I. Toubia, S. Diring, M. Kobeissi, F. Odobel
  • Journal: Dalton Transactions
  • Year: 2021
  • Volume: 50
  • Citation count: 12

 

 

Salman Khan | Pharmacology

Posted on by Best Paper Award
Prof. Salman Khan: Leading Researcher in Pharmacology

Summary:

Salman Khan is an accomplished pharmacologist currently serving as an Associate Professor of Pharmacology at Quaid-i-Azam University in Islamabad, Pakistan. Holding a Ph.D., his research focuses on the pharmacological mechanisms of anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, and neuroprotective activities of anomalin and capillarisin under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Yeong Shik Kim.

With a diverse academic and professional background, Salman has held positions such as a Postdoctoral Fellow at McGill University in Canada and Seoul National University in South Korea. His early career includes roles as a Researcher at Kyungpook National University, a Bio-Analyst at Fozan Pharma (Pvt) Ltd. in Peshawar, and various traineeships in organizations like PGMI and Hilton Pharma (Pvt) Ltd.

Salman Khan has been recognized for his contributions with prestigious awards and scholarships, including those from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), BK-21-plus, and the Namgang Award from the Korean Society of Pharmacognosy. His research achievements have earned him accolades such as the Best Research Paper at Seoul National University and multiple Best Poster Awards at international conferences.

Professional Profile:

Education:

  • Ph.D. Thesis Title: Pharmacological mechanism underlying anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, and neuroprotective activities of anomalin and capillarisin
  • Project Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Yeong Shik Kim

Work Experience:

Organization: Department of Pharmacy, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan

  • Designation: Associate Professor of Pharmacology
  • Period of Service: March 18, 2021, to present

Organization: Department of Pharmacy, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan

  • Designation: Assistant Professor of Pharmacology
  • Period of Service: December 01, 2014, to March 17, 2021

Organization: McGill University, Montreal, Canada

  • Designation: Post Doc Fellow
  • Period: May 01, 2014, to December 30, 2014

Organization: Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea

  • Designation: Post Doc Fellow
  • Period: September 01, 2013, to April 30, 2014

Organization: Kyungpook National University, Taegu, Republic of Korea

  • Designation: Researcher
  • Period: September 2007 to December 2008

Organization: Fozan Pharma (Pvt) Ltd., Peshawar, Pakistan

  • Designation: Bio-Analyst
  • Period: January 2007 to August 2007

Organization: PGMI, Hayat Abad Medical Complex, Peshawar, Pakistan

  • Designation: Trainee
  • Period: June 2006 to December 2006

Organization: Hilton Pharma (Pvt) Ltd., Karachi

  • Designation: Trainee
  • Period: October 2004 to December 2005

Research Funding/International Awards/Scholarships:

Salman Khan has garnered significant recognition and support for his research endeavors through a series of prestigious awards, scholarships, and research funding. His academic journey has been marked by a Postdoctoral award from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) as part of the Neuroinflammation Training Program at McGill University in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Additionally, he received a Postdoctoral award from BK-21-plus in 2013-2014, granted by the College of Pharmacy at Seoul National University in South Korea.

His achievements extend to international acclaim, including the Namgang Award in 2013 from the Korean Society of Pharmacognosy (KSP) in South Korea. Salman has further demonstrated academic excellence through the receipt of the Graduate Scholarship for Foreign Excellent Students (GSFS) from Seoul National University, spanning the years 2009 to 2013. During his research tenure, he served as a Research Associate with the Korea Food and Drug Administration (KFDA) from 2009 to 2013.

Publication Top Noted:

Title: Physicochemical and mechanical characterization of bacterial cellulose produced with an excellent productivity in static conditions using a simple fed-batch cultivation strategy

  • Authors: O Shezad, S Khan, T Khan, JK Park
  • Journal: Carbohydrate Polymers
  • Volume: 82 (1)
  • Pages: 173-180
  • Year: 2010

Title: Alantolactone suppresses inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 expression by down-regulating NF-κB, MAPK and AP-1 via the MyD88 signaling pathway in LPS …

  • Authors: J Chun, RJ Choi, S Khan, DS Lee, YC Kim, YJ Nam, DU Lee, YS Kim
  • Journal: International immunopharmacology
  • Volume: 14 (4)
  • Pages: 375-383
  • Year: 2012

Title: Anti-neuroinflammatory potential of natural products in attenuation of Alzheimer’s disease

  • Authors: B Shal, W Ding, H Ali, YS Kim, S Khan
  • Journal: Frontiers in pharmacology
  • Volume: 9
  • Page: 548
  • Year: 2018

Title: Suppression of LPS‐induced inflammatory and NF‐κB responses by anomalin in RAW 264.7 macrophages

  • Authors: S Khan, EM Shin, RJ Choi, YH Jung, J Kim, A Tosun, YS Kim
  • Journal: Journal of cellular biochemistry
  • Volume: 112 (8)
  • Pages: 2179-2188
  • Year: 2011

Title: Curcumin therapeutic promises and bioavailability in colorectal cancer

  • Authors: A Shehzad, S Khan, O Shehzad, YS Lee
  • Journal: Drugs of today
  • Volume: 46 (7)
  • Page: 523
Research Focus:

Bacterial Cellulose Production:

Research on the physicochemical and mechanical characterization of bacterial cellulose, particularly focusing on its production under static conditions using a fed-batch cultivation strategy.

Anti-Inflammatory Compounds:

Investigation of natural products, such as alantolactone and anomalin, for their anti-inflammatory potential. This involves exploring their effects on inflammatory pathways, including NF-κB, MAPK, AP-1, and MyD88 signaling.

Neuroinflammation and Alzheimer’s Disease:

Exploration of the anti-neuroinflammatory potential of natural products for the attenuation of Alzheimer’s disease. This suggests a focus on understanding the role of inflammation in neurodegenerative diseases.

Curcumin in Colorectal Cancer:

Examination of curcumin’s therapeutic promises and bioavailability in the context of colorectal cancer. This likely involves studying the anti-cancer properties and efficacy of curcumin in colorectal cancer treatment.