Stephanie Andriamiharisoa | Infectious Disease | Best Researcher Award

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.

Stephanie Willerth | Bioprinting | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Stephanie Willerth | Bioprinting | Best Researcher Award

Professor at University of Victoria, Canada

The Willerth lab, led by an accomplished researcher in neural tissue engineering, focuses on innovations using pluripotent stem cells, controlled drug delivery, biomaterial scaffolds, and bioprinting for neural tissue development. With experience across top institutions, this scientist blends engineering with neuroscience for advanced tissue engineering applications, creating a dynamic training environment for future biomedical engineers.

Publication Profile

scholar

Education 🎓

Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, 2008 (Dissertation: Effects of growth factor delivery on stem cell differentiation in fibrin scaffolds)M.S. in Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, 2008S.B. in Chemical Engineering, MIT, 2003S.B. in Biology, MIT, 2003NIH Postdoctoral Fellowship, UC Berkeley (focused on DNA sequencing technologies for HIV diversity and stem cell differentiation)

Experience 👩‍🔬

Adjunct Professor, Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, 2023Affiliate Professor, Biochemistry, University of British Columbia, 2016-2019Affiliate Professor, Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2016-2018NIH F32 Post-Doctoral Fellowship, UC Berkeley, 2008-2010 (specialized in DNA sequencing and stem cell studies)

Awards and Honors 🏆

NIH F32 Fellowship, supporting research at the intersection of bioengineering and stem cell technologiesRecognized for groundbreaking work in bioprinting and neural tissue engineeringRecipient of various institutional and industry accolades for advancements in biomaterials and controlled drug deliveryHonored by the NIH and top research conferences for contributions to neural tissue engineering and stem cell differentiation

Research Focus 🧠

The Willerth lab specializes in engineering neural tissues via stem cell technologies, bioprinting, and drug delivery systems. Research spans pluripotent stem cell differentiation, biomaterial scaffolds, and cellular reprogramming to improve neural regeneration. This work combines principles of engineering and neuroscience, offering significant implications for treating neurodegenerative diseases and spinal cord injuries.

Publication  Top Notes

“The differentiation of embryonic stem cells seeded on electrospun nanofibers into neural lineages”Biomaterials, 2009. Cited 524 times. This study investigates stem cell differentiation on nanofiber scaffolds, advancing neural tissue engineering techniques.

“Approaches to neural tissue engineering using scaffolds for drug delivery”Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews, 2007. Cited 476 times. This review outlines scaffold-based drug delivery methods, influencing therapeutic strategies for neural regeneration.

“Emerging biofabrication strategies for engineering complex tissue constructs”Advanced Materials, 2017. Cited 401 times. This paper discusses biofabrication innovations for creating intricate tissue models, contributing to advanced biomaterials research.

“Conductive core–sheath nanofibers and their potential application in neural tissue engineering”Advanced Functional Materials, 2009. Cited 363 times. This research on conductive nanofibers highlights their role in enhancing neural tissue repair.

“Optimization of fibrin scaffolds for differentiation of murine embryonic stem cells into neural lineage cells”Biomaterials, 2006. Cited 344 times. This study optimizes fibrin scaffolds for effective stem cell differentiation, aiding neural tissue formation.

“Metal additive manufacturing: Technology, metallurgy and modelling”Journal of Manufacturing Processes, 2020. Cited 285 times. This paper examines metal additive manufacturing and its potential in bioengineering applications.

“Combining stem cells and biomaterial scaffolds for constructing tissues and cell delivery”Harvard Stem Cell Institute, 2008. Cited 265 times. This foundational work explores the integration of stem cells with biomaterials for tissue engineering.

“Cell therapy for spinal cord regeneration”Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews, 2008. Cited 190 times. This article discusses cell therapy approaches for spinal cord repair, influencing regenerative medicine.

“The effects of soluble growth factors on embryonic stem cell differentiation inside of fibrin scaffolds”Stem Cells, 2007. Cited 166 times. This paper focuses on controlled growth factor delivery to promote stem cell differentiation.

“Natural Biomaterials and Their Use as Bioinks for Printing Tissues”Bioengineering, 2021. Cited 152 times. Highlights the use of natural biomaterials as bioinks in 3D bioprinting for tissue engineering applications.

“3D printing of neural tissues derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells using a fibrin-based bioink”ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering, 2018. Cited 151 times. Describes bioprinting neural tissues with fibrin-based bioinks, pushing the boundaries of regenerative bioprinting.

“Extrusion and Microfluidic-Based Bioprinting to Fabricate Biomimetic Tissues and Organs”Advanced Materials Technologies, 2020. Cited 143 times. This paper presents novel bioprinting methods for replicating complex tissue structures.

Conclusion

Given their significant contributions and research leadership in neural tissue engineering and stem cell bioprinting, this candidate is an excellent nominee for the Best Researcher Award. Their innovative methodologies, backed by strong academic and institutional affiliations, demonstrate a profound dedication to advancing regenerative medicine. With a minor focus on clinical translation and interdisciplinary collaborations, this researcher has the potential to influence the field profoundly, making them a highly deserving candidate for this honor.

Ranjeet Kumar | Pharmacy Practice | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ranjeet Kumar | Pharmacy Practice | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Narayan Institute of Pharmacy, Gopal Narayan Singh University,  India

Dr. Ranjeet Kumar, an enthusiastic Associate Professor with over 8 years of teaching experience, excels in pharmacy practice and academics. He is known for his approachable demeanor and commitment to long-term student success. Dr. Kumar has been Head of the Department at NIMS Institute of Pharmacy, NIMS University, Jaipur, and an Associate Professor at ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab. His passion for education and research is reflected in the numerous postgraduate students he has guided. He is also actively involved in academic development through symposiums, workshops, and conferences.

Publication Profile

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Education🎓

Dr. Ranjeet Kumar holds a Ph.D. from the National Institute of Medical Sciences (NIMS), Jaipur (2018-2023), focusing on antidiabetic drug research. He completed his M.Pharm at the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hajipur (2014-2016), with a CGPA of 8.48. His B.Pharm was obtained from I.T.S Pharmacy College, UPTU, Lucknow (2010-2014), where he scored 72.58%. His educational journey is marked by a passion for clinical research and a dedication to advancing pharmaceutical science.

Experience💼 

Dr. Kumar has over 8 years of teaching experience, having served as Head of the Department at NIMS Institute of Pharmacy, Jaipur, and as an Associate Professor at ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga. He has guided more than 50 Pharm.D and 6 M.Pharm students in clinical and project work. His leadership roles in academia, combined with his involvement in various research projects, reflect his commitment to pharmacy education and student mentorship.

Awards and Honors🏅 

Dr. Kumar’s achievements include qualifying in the GPAT and NIPER JEE exams, receiving an Academic Excellence Award in 2010, and earning the Best Teacher Award in 2019. Additionally, he has certifications in cultural and sports activities, showcasing his diverse talents. Dr. Kumar’s dedication to academic and extracurricular excellence has earned him recognition as a well-rounded educator.

Research Focus 🔬 

Dr. Kumar’s Ph.D. research focuses on the preclinical study of recent antidiabetic drugs, specifically DPP-4 inhibitors, and their impact on various diabetic complications. His M.Pharm project involved comparing different antihypertensive drugs in relation to Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP), Cystatin-C, and blood pressure in essential hypertensive patients. His research is driven by a passion for improving treatment options for chronic diseases, contributing to advancements in clinical practice.

Publication  Top Notes

  • Diabetic Retinopathy Leading to Blindness (2024-11): Reviews the progression of diabetic retinopathy and its connection to blindness. Key contributors: Amandeep Kaur, Ranjeet Kumar, Amit Sharma.
  • Herbal Drugs in Cardiovascular Disease (2024-09): Examines the potential use of herbal drugs in managing cardiovascular diseases. Key contributors: Arshdeep Kaur, Ranjeet Kumar.
  • Diabetic Neuropathy (2024-06): A comprehensive overview of the causes and progression of diabetic neuropathy. Key contributors: Ujjawal Singh, Ramsha Sharma, Ranjeet Kumar.
  • Diabetic Cardiomyopathy (2024-05): Explores the links between diabetes and cardiomyopathy. Key contributors: Abdul Quaiyoom, Ranjeet Kumar.
  • Risk of Type 1 Diabetes in SARS-CoV-2 Patients (2024-05): Discusses how COVID-19 might influence the onset of Type 1 diabetes. Key contributors: Shweta Chahal, Rojin G Raj, Ranjeet Kumar.

Conclusion

Dr. Ranjeet Kumar’s extensive background in pharmacy practice, his leadership in academic and research environments, and his active engagement in professional development activities make him a suitable and strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His dedication to teaching, guiding students, and contributing to significant pharmaceutical research are testaments to his impact in the field. While there is room for expansion in international research collaborations and publications, his existing credentials and achievements reflect a highly accomplished and promising researcher deserving of recognition.

Dr. Madeha Alkelan | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Madeha Alkelan | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. University of Cape Town, South Africa

Dr. Dr. Madeha Alkelan holds a Ph.D. in Medicine from the University of Cape Town (2023), specializing in Dermatology with a focus on hair and skin diseases. Their dissertation explored the molecular and biochemical characterization of hair follicle stem cells in frontal fibrosing alopecia and lichen planopilaris. They also earned an M.Sc. in Medical Biosciences from the University of Western Cape (2015) and a B.Sc. in Medical Sciences from Almergeb University, Libya (2008). With teaching experience at Al Margeb University and extensive training in tissue culture, flow cytometry, and advanced biochemical techniques, Dr. Dr. Madeha Alkelan is a seasoned researcher and educator in health sciences.

 

Professional Profiles:

📚 Education

🎓 Ph.D. in Medicine, Dermatology | University of Cape Town (2023)I completed my Ph.D. at the University of Cape Town, specializing in Health Sciences and Dermatology. My research focused on the Molecular and Biochemical Characterization of Hair Follicle Stem Cells in Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia and Lichen Planopilaris, contributing to a deeper understanding of hair and skin diseases.🎓 M.Sc. in Medical Biosciences | University of Western Cape (2015)I earned my Master’s degree in Medical Biosciences from the University of Western Cape. My dissertation explored the Antibacterial Activity of South African Plant Extracts against Streptococcus mutans, highlighting the potential of natural remedies in combating bacterial infections.🎓 B.Sc. in Medical Sciences | Almergeb University, Libya (2008)My undergraduate studies in Medical Sciences at Almergeb University, Libya, laid the foundation for my career in health sciences and medical research.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As a Lecturer at Al Margeb University, I taught Histology and Anatomy, shaping the next generation of medical professionals through comprehensive and engaging coursework.

🌟 English Language Courses

English Language Centre, Libya (2010): Completed a Seven-Month English Language Course to enhance communication skills.EC School, Cape Town (2013): Completed a One-Year English Language Course to further advance my proficiency.

💻 Office Computer Course

Office Computer Course: Acquired essential computer skills for academic and research tasks.

🧬 Advanced Laboratory Techniques

Tissue Culture Training | Tygerberg Hospital (2015): Gained expertise in Tissue Culture techniques.Flow Cytometry Training | University of Western Cape (2015): Developed skills in Flow Cytometry for advanced cellular analysis.Immunohistochemistry and Immunofluorescence Training | Hair and Skin Research Lab (2019): Specialized in Immunohistochemistry and Immunofluorescence techniques for dermatological research.Tissue Culture Training (2D and 3D) | Hair and Skin Research Lab (2021): Advanced training in 2D and 3D Tissue Culture methods for skin research.

🔬 Analytical and Computational Techniques

MALDI TOF, FTIR, SEM, and LC-MS/MS Training (2018): Developed proficiency in MALDI TOF, FTIR, SEM, and LC-MS/MS for comprehensive biochemical analysis.Skyline, SclisLab, Maxquant, Perseus, R Software Training (2029-2023): Engaged in advanced training for Skyline, SclisLab, Maxquant, Perseus, and R Software for data analysis and research.

✍️Publications Top Note :

Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Activity of Certain South African Plants Against the Oral Pathogen – Streptococcus mutans

Authors: Madeha A. Kelani, Danovon C. Hiss, Mervin Meyer, Abdulrahman M. Elbagory, Ahmed A. Hussein
Journal: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Status: Published

📚 The Role of Stem Cells in the Pathogenesis of Scarring Alopecia: Systematic Review Protocol

Authors: Madeha Alkelani, Henry Adeola, Nonhlanhla P. Khumalo, Kutlwano Chabaesele, Thandeka Sikhakhane
Registration Number: PROSPERO 2020 CRD42020146382
Status: Published

📘 Systematic Review of the Genomics and Proteomic Signatures of Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia

Authors: Kutlwano Antonette Chabaesele, Henry Adeola, Nonhlanhla Khumalo, Madeha Alkelani, Thandeka Sikhakhane
Registration Number: PROSPERO 2020 CRD42020208759
Status: Published

Authors: Thandeka Sikhakhane, Madeha Alkelani, Kutlwano Chabaesele, Henry Adeola, Nonhlanhla Khumalo
Registration Number: PROSPERO 2020 CRD42020157025
Status: Published

📄 Pathological Role of Molecular and Phenotypic Changes to Hair Follicle Stem Cells in Scarring Alopecias

Authors: Madeha Al-Kelani, Henry A. Adeola, Richard P. Halley-Stott, Nonhlanhla P. Khumalo
Journal: Journal of Dermatology
Status: Submitted (JDE-2024-0129)

🧪 Stem Cells Biochemical Signatures of Different Classes of Alopecia Identified by FTIR Spectroscopy

Authors: Madeha Al-Kelani, Ogheneochuko Oputu, Henry A. Adeola, Richard P. Halley-Stott, Nonhlanhla P. Khumalo
Journal: Experimental Dermatology
Status: Submitted (EXD-24-0006)

🔬 Proteomic Discovery and Validation of Differentially Expressed Molecular Targets for Keloid: Novel Biomarkers and Treatment Options

Authors: Elvis Banboye Kidzeru, Musalula Sinkala, Temwani Chalwa, Relebohile Matobole, Madeha Alkelani, Zeinab Ghasemishahrestani, Stanley Kimbung Mbandi, Jonathan Blackburn, David Tabb, Henry Ademola Adeola, Nonhlanhla Khumalo, Ardeshir Bayat
Journal: Journal of Investigative Dermatology
Status: Submitted (JID-2024-0188)

🔬 Advancements in Medical Research: Exploring Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy for Tissue, Cell, and Hair Sample Analysis

Authors: Madeha Al-Kelani, Ntandoyenkosi Buthelezi
Journal: Skin Research and Technology
Status: Submitted (SRT13733)

🔬 Development and Optimization of a Keloid Spheroid Model for Evaluation of an Anti-Fibrotic Rock Inhibitor

Authors: Zeinab Ghasemishahrestani, Redxpharma Company, Madeha Alkelani, Traci Wilgus, Nala Kumalo, Aldreshir Bayat
Journal: [Under Review]

🔬 Shotgun Proteomics and Imaging Mass Spectrometry Evaluation of Molecular Hair Follicle Stem Cell Protein Changes in Primary Scarring Alopecia Progression

Authors: Madeha Al-Kelani, Henry A. Adeola, Richard P. Halley-Stott, Nonhlanhla P. Khumalo