Stephanie Andriamiharisoa | Infectious Disease | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Stephanie Andriamiharisoa | Infectious Disease | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer | University of Mahajanga | Madagascar

Dr. Stéphanie Norotiana Andriamiharisoa, épouse Raotoson, is a Malagasy physician and academic specializing in internal medicine. Born in Antananarivo, Madagascar, she has built a distinguished medical and academic career combining clinical excellence, research, and teaching. She currently serves as a Lecturer-Researcher at the University of Mahajanga and as Chief of Clinic in Internal Medicine at the University Hospital Center (CHU) Mahavoky Atsimo, Mahajanga. Passionate about advancing healthcare in resource-limited settings, she has contributed significantly to research in nephrology, infectious diseases, autoimmune conditions, and epidemiology. Dr. Andriamiharisoa has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and presented her work at both national and international conferences. Recognized for her scholarly contributions, she has received multiple distinctions, including jury commendations for her doctoral thesis and specialist dissertation. Beyond her academic pursuits, she has also demonstrated leadership, serving as president of the Health Personnel Mutual of CHU Mahavoky. She is married and mother of three children.

Professional Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Andriamiharisoa began her medical studies in at the Faculty of Medicine, Antananarivo, Madagascar. She completed her undergraduate medical education an, earned her Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree with a thesis on peripartum cardiomyopathy, awarded with high honors and jury commendation. Pursuing specialization in internal medicine, she undertook postgraduate training at CHU Joseph Raseta Befelatanana, Antananarivo, from onward. She consolidated her expertise through diverse academic and clinical experiences, including a clinical internship in Hematology at the Centre Hospitalier d’Argenteuil, Franct, she successfully defended her specialist dissertation on chronic kidney disease at CHU Mahavoky, which earned her the Diplôme d’Études de Formation Spécialisée (DEFS) in Internal Medicine, also with high distinction. Her advanced training culminated in November, marking the completion of her specialized medical studies. Her academic journey reflects a rigorous commitment to excellence in both clinical practice and research.

Experience

Dr. Andriamiharisoa has accumulated extensive professional experience in internal medicine and medical research. She began as a medical intern at CHU Joseph Raseta Befelatanana, progressing to a hospital-based internship in France in she was appointed Assistant Physician in Internal Medicine at CHU Mahavoky Atsimo, Mahajanga, where she quickly advanced to Chief of Clinic. In parallel, she has been serving as a Lecturer-Researcher at the University of Mahajanga since, combining clinical duties with medical education and scientific inquiry. Her clinical expertise spans nephrology, infectious diseases, autoimmune disorders, and critical care, addressing pressing health challenges in Madagascar. She has also supervised research, mentored students, and actively contributed to professional societies. Her leadership was highlighted when she was elected President of the Health Personnel Mutual at CHU Mahavoky. Her career demonstrates a balance between patient care, academic scholarship, and healthcare leadership.

Research Focus

Dr. Andriamiharisoa’s research focuses on internal medicine with a strong emphasis on diseases prevalent in Madagascar and resource-limited settings. Her interests include nephrology, particularly the epidemiology and clinical features of chronic kidney disease, as well as metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes. She has conducted significant research on infectious diseases, including tuberculosis, nosocomial infections, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, providing valuable insight into public health challenges. Additionally, she has explored autoimmune conditions such as systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic scleroderma, shedding light on diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties in low-resource contexts. Dermatological case reports, cardiovascular diseases, and pediatric infections also form part of her diverse portfolio. Through her publications and presentations, she highlights the unique clinical patterns observed in Malagasy populations while contributing to global discussions on tropical medicine and internal medicine. Her ultimate research aim is to strengthen evidence-based practice and improve patient outcomes in Madagascar.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Andriamiharisoa has consistently been recognized for her academic and clinical excellence, her doctoral thesis on peripartum cardiomyopathy received the distinction of “Très honorable” with jury congratulations and a proposal for the thesis prize, reflecting both the quality and clinical relevance of her work. Similarly, her specialist dissertation on chronic kidney disease in Mahajanga earned the same distinction, with additional commendations for its scientific rigor and contribution to understanding epidemiological and clinical patterns in Madagascar. Beyond these academic accolades, her leadership was acknowledged when she was elected president of the CHU Mahavoky Health Personnel Mutual an honor reflecting both professional trust and commitment to community service. Her contributions in research and education have also been highlighted through multiple invitations to present at national and international conferences. These honors illustrate her dedication to advancing medical knowledge and healthcare practice in Madagascar.

Publication Top Notes

Simulation-Based Education to Improve Hand Hygiene Practices: A Pilot Study in Sub-Saharan Africa
Year: 5025

Conclusion

Dr. Andriamiharisoa’s impressive academic background, research experience, and clinical expertise make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her leadership roles and publication record further demonstrate her capabilities. With some additional interdisciplinary collaboration, international impact, and research funding, she could further solidify her position as a leading researcher in her field.

Andrea Giammarino | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Andrea Giammarino | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Phd Student | La Sapienza University of Rome | Italy

Andrea Giammarino is a rising Italian researcher in microbiology and pharmaceutical sciences, currently pursuing a Ph.D. in “Advances in Infectious Diseases, Microbiology, Legal Medicine and Public Health Sciences” at Sapienza University of Rome. His academic and research interests center on pharmaceutical microbiology, fungal biofilms, virulence modulation, and nanotechnology-based antifungal strategies. in Italy, Giammarino has quickly distinguished himself through his hands-on contributions to antifungal research, particularly involving  species and spp., as well as through his innovative use of Galleria mellonella as a fungal model. He has collaborated extensively with national and international teams, including research conducted at the Universidad Nacional del Nordeste (UNNE) in Argentina under Prof. Gustavo Giusiano’s guidance. Andrea has contributed to various high-impact journals such as  and Microorganisms. He has also presented research at prominent conferences like ISHAM and FIMUA. Alongside his research, he earned his pharmacist habilitation in 2024 and remains committed to improving patient care through scientific innovation. With a solid foundation in both clinical and experimental disciplines, Andrea Giammarino is emerging as a promising scholar contributing to the global effort to combat fungal pathogens and drug resistance through innovative microbial therapeutics.

Professional Profile

Orcid

Education 

Andrea Giammarino’s educational journey reflects a strong foundation in pharmaceutical sciences and specialized training in microbiology. He completed his Master’s Degree in Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technologies at Sapienza University of Rome (2017–2024), with a thesis focusing on Candida spp and the modulation of their virulence and wall proteins by Carvacrol, underlining his early interest in antifungal therapeutics. In 2024, he successfully passed the Pharmacist Abilitation State Exam, becoming a licensed pharmacist. He also completed a High Formation Course  “The Role of the Pharmacist in Managing Dermatological Patients,” offered by Sapienza University in collaboration with the Ordine dei Farmacisti di Roma. This training enhanced his clinical communication and patient care skills, particularly in dermocosmetics and dermatological therapy. Currently, he is enrolled in the Ph.D. Program (XL cycle) at Sapienza University of Rome, specializing in Microbiology and Parasitology within the broader field of “Advances in Infectious Diseases, Microbiology, Legal Medicine and Public Health Sciences.” Through this rigorous program, he deepens his understanding of microbial pathogenesis, resistance mechanisms, and advanced experimental methods. Andrea’s education is complemented by international research training, including molecular techniques in mycology conducted in Argentina, positioning him for impactful contributions to translational infectious disease research.

Experience

Andrea Giammarino’s professional experience is primarily rooted in academic research, where he explores fungal pathogens, biofilm formation, and antifungal strategies. As a Ph.D. student at Sapienza University of Rome, he actively contributes to microbiology research projects, particularly focusing on fungal virulence modulation, nanoparticle synthesis, and host-pathogen interactions. His scientific work is grounded in experimental microbiology and pharmacology, employing models like Galleria mellonella and techniques such as molecular biology and microscopy. In collaboration with the Instituto de Medicina Regional, Universidad Nacional del Nordeste (UNNE), Argentina, Andrea participated in international research training, gaining expertise in green synthesis of silver nanoparticles and molecular methods for fungal identification and pathogenicity assessment. He worked under the supervision of Prof. Gustavo Giusiano, enhancing his cross-cultural academic and lab experience. Andrea has been a presenter at multiple international and national conferences, including the 22nd ISHAM Congres and FIMUA 2024, where he showcased his research on Candida spp., silver nanoparticles, and HDAC inhibitors. His interdisciplinary work bridges microbiology, pharmacology, and nanotechnology, making him a well-rounded early-career researcher. Andrea also contributed to various collaborative projects within Sapienza University, fostering interdepartmental teamwork and contributing to a robust academic environment in infectious disease research.

Research Focus 

Andrea Giammarino’s research focuses on antifungal resistance, biofilm formation, virulence modulation and nanotechnology-based antimicrobial therapies. A major thrust of his work lies in understanding how natural compounds like  affect fungal pathogens, particularly Candida spp., by altering their wall proteins and virulence factors. This line of inquiry holds promise for developing novel therapeutic agents against drug-resistant fungi. He is also deeply engaged in the synthesis and testing of silver nanoparticles, especially those produced through eco-friendly or biological means. His work with gellan gum-based nanocomposite films incorporating bioreduced silver nanoparticles has demonstrated potential in enhancing antifungal activity, as published in Carbohydrate Polymer Technologies and Applications. Andrea leverages alternative animal models, such as Galleria mellonella, to study the pathogenesis and host response to fungal infections. This model provides ethical and cost-effective means to test antifungal efficacy and host–pathogen interactions.

Awards and Honors

While specific formal awards are not explicitly listed, Andrea Giammarino has earned academic distinction and international recognition through his research presentations, international collaborations, and conference participations. His acceptance into the highly competitive Ph.D. program at Sapienza University’s Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases reflects recognition of his academic merit and potential. Andrea’s international collaboration with the Universidad Nacional del Nordeste (UNNE) in Argentina, under the mentorship of Professor Gustavo Giusiano, signifies scholarly recognition beyond Italy. His selection to conduct research abroad on green nanoparticle synthesis and molecular fungal methods underscores his reputation for innovation and commitment to global scientific progress.

Publication Top Notes

1. Fungal Biofilm: An Overview of the Latest Nano-Strategies
2. Galleria mellonella as a Model for the Study of Fungal Pathogens: Advantages and Disadvantages
3. Gellan Gum-Based Nanocomposites Films Containing Bio-Reduced Silver Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterisation, and Antifungal Activity
4. Identification of Virulence Factors in Isolates of Candida haemulonii, Candida albicans, and Clavispora lusitaniae with Low Susceptibility and Resistance to Fluconazole and Amphotericin.

Nitin Pal Kalia | Infectious diseases | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Nitin Pal Kalia | Infectious diseases | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at  NIPER HYDERABAD, India

Changmin Shi is a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Brown University, specializing in energy materials mechanics and thermal energy management. With extensive experience in materials science and engineering, he has contributed to groundbreaking research on high-energy-density lithium-sulfur batteries and innovative solutions for energy storage and thermal regulation. His work is aimed at advancing battery performance, enhancing materials for space thermoregulation, and developing recyclable battery technologies. Changmin’s research has garnered significant funding and continues to shape the future of energy-efficient systems.

 

Professional Profiles:

Google scholar

Education🎓

Brown University (2023–Present) – Postdoctoral Research Associate, School of Engineering University of Maryland (2019–2023) – Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, Dissertation on Lithium-Sulfur Batteries Columbia University (2017–2019) – M.S. in Materials Science and Engineering, Research on Flexible Lithium-ion Batteries University of Science and Technology Beijing (2013–2017) – B.Eng. in Metallurgical Engineering, Research on PEM Fuel Cell Materials

Experience🔬

Postdoctoral Research Associate at Brown University, School of Engineering (2023–Present) Ph.D. Researcher at University of Maryland, focusing on lithium-sulfur batteries and energy materials (2019–2023) Graduate Research Assistant at Columbia University, specializing in flexible energy storage systems (2017–2019) Research Assistant at University of Science and Technology Beijing, focusing on PEM fuel cell materials (2013–2017)

Awards and Honors🏅

“Battery-Driven Systems Enabled Materials Thermoregulation” funding from LiquidMetal, $250,000 (2025–2027) “Blocking Li Metal Dendrites with Piezoelectric Solid Polymer Electrolytes” funding, $90,013 (2023–2024) Initiative for Sustainable Energy Funding for “Hierarchically-Structured Coatings for Thermal Energy Management,” $90,774 (Proposal submission) Research Grants and Proposals from NSF and other funding agencies

Research Focus🔬

Battery Technology – Development of safe, high-energy-density batteries with advanced materials Thermal Energy Management – Innovations in space thermoregulation and passive radiation cooling systems  Recyclable Energy Systems – Novel approaches to sustainable, recyclable battery technologies  Energy Materials Mechanics – Investigating mechanical properties of energy materials, including elasticity, plasticity, fracture toughness, and flexibility

✍️Publications Top Note :

“Capsaicin, a novel inhibitor of the NorA efflux pump, reduces the intracellular invasion of Staphylococcus aureus”
This study, published in Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (2012), identifies capsaicin as an effective inhibitor of the NorA efflux pump, reducing the invasion of Staphylococcus aureus. The research was co-authored by NP Kalia and others.

“Exploiting the synthetic lethality between terminal respiratory oxidases to kill Mycobacterium tuberculosis and clear host infection”
Published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2017), this paper investigates how targeting the synthetic lethality of terminal respiratory oxidases can clear Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections, offering potential therapeutic strategies.

“Sulfur-rich 2-mercaptobenzothiazole and 1, 2, 3-triazole conjugates as novel antitubercular agents”
This article in the European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry (2014) discusses the synthesis and antitubercular properties of sulfur-rich conjugates, with NP Kalia contributing to the study.

“Piperine analogs as potent Staphylococcus aureus NorA efflux pump inhibitors”
A 2008 publication in Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry, which presents piperine analogs as inhibitors of the NorA efflux pump in Staphylococcus aureus, a key player in antibiotic resistance.

“Protective efficacy of piperine against Mycobacterium tuberculosis”
In this 2014 Tuberculosis journal article, the protective effect of piperine against Mycobacterium tuberculosis is evaluated, with NP Kalia contributing to the study.

“Piperine as an inhibitor of the MdeA efflux pump of Staphylococcus aureus”
Published in Journal of Medical Microbiology (2011), this study explores the potential of piperine to inhibit the MdeA efflux pump, which is involved in antibiotic resistance in Staphylococcus aureus.

“Antimicrobial and Antimycobacterial Activities of Methyl Caffeate Isolated from Solanum torvum Swartz. Fruit”
In this 2012 Indian Journal of Microbiology article, methyl caffeate isolated from Solanum torvum fruit is evaluated for its antimicrobial and antimycobacterial properties.

“Dual inhibition of the terminal oxidases eradicates antibiotic‐tolerant Mycobacterium tuberculosis”
A study in EMBO Molecular Medicine (2021), where the dual inhibition of terminal oxidases is shown to eradicate antibiotic-tolerant Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Conclusion

Changmin Shi is undoubtedly a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. His innovative contributions to energy materials, mechanical devices for material characterization, and high-energy-density battery systems are transformative in both the academic and industrial research spaces. His proactive approach in securing funding, initiating research ideas, and collaborating with key industry players positions him as a future leader in materials science and engineering.