Gulnar Ultanbekova | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gulnar Ultanbekova | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Al-Farabi Kazakh National University | Kazakhstan

Dr. Gulnar Ultanbekova is an accomplished scientist and Acting Associate Professor of Biotechnology at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. With more than two decades of dedicated service in microbiology and biotechnology, she has established herself as a leading figure in microbial research, applied agricultural biotechnology, and the development of innovative bioproducts. Her leadership at the Institute of Microbiology and Virology of Kazakhstan was instrumental in the creation of groundbreaking microbial preparations, including Rizovit-AKS and the antifungal drug Roseofungin-AS, both of which have been widely recognized for their scientific and practical impact. She has consistently demonstrated the ability to bridge fundamental research with real-world agricultural applications, earning her a reputation as a pioneer in microbial biotechnology and sustainable agriculture.

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Education

Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, followed by a Master’s in Ecology, and culminating in a Doctorate in Biological Sciences from Al-Farabi Kazakh National University. This strong academic foundation provided her with expertise in microbial ecology, soil microbiology, and applied biotechnology. Over the years, she has complemented her formal education with continued professional development, mentorship under leading academicians, and hands-on research in microbial innovations. Her educational background has equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the challenges of soil fertility, crop productivity, and sustainable agricultural practices through microbial biotechnology.

Experience

Dr. Gulnar Ultanbekova professional career spans over twenty years in academic teaching, laboratory leadership, and applied research. She headed the Antibiotics Laboratory at the Institute of Microbiology and Virology of Kazakhstan, where she contributed to the development of novel antibiotics and microbial biofertilizers. In her role, she collaborated with agricultural enterprises to implement microbial technologies that improved soil fertility and crop yields in practical farming systems. She has authored several scientific books, guided numerous research projects, and supervised students in microbiology and biotechnology. Currently, as Acting Associate Professor at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, she continues to balance teaching, mentorship, and high-impact research, ensuring the growth of both science and future scholars in her field.

Research Interest

Her primary research interests lie in microbial biotechnology, soil microbiology, plant-microbe interactions, and the design of microbial biofertilizers. She has specialized in exploring plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, nitrogen-fixing actinobacteria, and antibiotic-producing microorganisms. Her work focuses on the development of multifunctional microbial preparations that restore soil fertility, enhance crop yield, and support sustainable agricultural systems. Through her projects, she has developed microbial strains with high infectivity and growth-stimulating activity, patented bio-organic fertilizers, and applied technologies that are now being implemented in real agricultural environments. Her research philosophy emphasizes sustainability, ecological balance, and the integration of advanced science with practical farming solutions.

Awards

Dr. Gulnar Ultanbekova has been recognized at the highest national level for her significant contributions to science and technology. She was honored with the State Prize of the Republic of Kazakhstan for her leadership in the development and commercialization of the antifungal drug Roseofungin-AS, a pioneering achievement in microbial biotechnology. Additionally, she has received the YEREN YENBEGI USHIN Medal from Al-Farabi Kazakh National University in recognition of her exceptional service, dedication to academic excellence, and contributions to institutional growth. These prestigious awards highlight both her scientific achievements and her role as a transformative figure in biotechnology.

Publications

Dr. Gulnar Ultanbekova has published more than fifty scientific papers in national and international journals. Her articles address themes such as soil fertility restoration through nitrogen-fixing actinobacteria, the role of microbial biofertilizers in enhancing legume productivity, and ecological approaches to crop improvement. Representative publications include:

Title: Antifungal activity against pathogens of cereals and characterization of antibiotics of Streptomyces sp. strain K-541 isolated from extreme ecosystems in Kazakhstan
Journal: Agricultural Biology
Published on: 2018
Citation: Cited by 7

Title: Isolation and selection of nodulating bacteria from the rhizosphere of legume (Vigna radiata) and bean (Phaseolus lunatus) plants and enhancement of specific properties
Journal: BIO Web of Conferences
Published on: 2024
Citation: Cited by 1

Title: Effect of UV irradiation of PGPR bacteria on seed germination and plant growth of mung bean (Vigna radiata)
Journal: European Science
Published on: 2019
Citation: Cited by 1

Title: Agrochemical compositions of soils and rhizosphere microorganisms of Rosa potentilliflora Chrshan. et M. Pop. in the eastern and central parts of the Zailiyskiy Alatau
Journal: Ecological Processes
Published on: 2025

Title: The use of predatory fungi of the genus Arthrobotrys isolated from soils of farmland in Southern Kazakhstan to control nematode infections in tomato plants
Journal: BIO Web of Conferences
Published on: 2024

Title: Influence of halophilic microorganisms Bacillus sp. PK-1 on the growth and development of maize under irrigated saline soil conditions in the Turkestan region
Journal: Eurasian Journal of Ecology
Published on: 2020

Title: Study on the effect of biopreparations based on streptomycete strains on wheat growth under conditions of Fusarium oxysporum infection
Journal: Biology and Medicine Series
Published on: 2017

Conclusion

Dr. Gulnar Ultanbekova is a highly accomplished researcher whose career exemplifies the integration of fundamental microbiology with applied biotechnology for agricultural sustainability. Through her research, she has introduced microbial solutions that improve soil fertility, crop productivity, and ecological balance. Her publications, patents, and books showcase a lifetime commitment to advancing science and technology, while her awards affirm the national recognition of her achievements. With a proven record of innovation, leadership, and impact, she stands as an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award, embodying excellence in scientific research and dedication to societal advancement.

Nicolas Leuenberger | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Swiss laboratory for Doping Analyses | Switzerland

Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger is a distinguished Privat-docent and Research Manager at the Swiss Laboratory for Doping Analyses, University Hospital of Lausanne. With a proven track record in forensic science and anti-doping research, he has contributed significantly to advancing methodologies for detecting blood doping and other performance-enhancing practices. His leadership in managing research projects, mentoring graduate students, and fostering international collaborations has positioned him as an influential figure in forensic and biomedical sciences.

Professional Profile

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Education

Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger holds a PhD in Biomedical Sciences and advanced qualifications in forensic and medical sciences, which laid the foundation for his career in anti-doping research. His academic background integrates molecular biology, biochemistry, and forensic medicine, enabling him to explore novel biomarkers of blood manipulation and enhance anti-doping practices worldwide.

Experience

With extensive experience as Research Manager at the Swiss Laboratory for Doping Analyses, Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger oversees both research operations and biological unit management. He directs master’s and PhD projects, guiding students from experimental design to thesis completion. As part of the LAD management team, he coordinates grant applications, establishes ISO-accredited protocols, and supervises multidisciplinary collaborations with hospital units and global anti-doping laboratories. His consultancy roles with Novartis Pharma Schweiz AG, the Research Grants Council of Hong Kong, and the World Anti-Doping Agency further demonstrate his expertise and international recognition.

Research Interests

Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger’s research focuses on the discovery of innovative biomarkers for blood doping, particularly through the fields of ironomics and transcriptomics. His pioneering work on erythroferrone and hepcidin as indicators of blood manipulation has reshaped anti-doping science. Currently, he is advancing mRNA biomarker detection from dried blood spots, enabling more accurate detection of autologous blood transfusions and micro-dose EPO administration. His commitment lies in developing cutting-edge forensic tools that safeguard the integrity of sports and public health.

Awards

Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger has been widely recognized for his contributions to forensic and anti-doping science. His editorial appointment as Associate Editor of Frontiers in Sport and Active Living and his membership in the Swiss Haematology Society underscore his professional standing. He has also been invited as an expert reviewer for the World Anti-Doping Agency and other international bodies, reflecting his global impact on anti-doping policy and scientific innovation.

Publications

Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger has authored over 45 peer-reviewed publications in leading scientific journals, significantly contributing to anti-doping and forensic biomarker research. A selection of his highly cited works includes:

1. Detection of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents in human anti-doping control: Past, present and future
Journal: Drug Testing and Analysis
Published on: July 2012

2. Circulating microRNAs as Biomarkers for Detection of Autologous Blood Transfusion
Journal: PLoS ONE
Published on: June 2013

3. Circulating microRNAs: The Future of Biomarkers in Anti-doping Field
Journal: Drug Testing and Analysis
Published on: December 2015

4. Autologous Blood Transfusion in Sports: Emerging Biomarkers
Journal: Transfusion Medicine Reviews
Published on: May 2016

5. mRNA Biomarkers in Dried Blood Spots May Improve Detection of Autologous Blood Micro-Transfusions Using an Individualized Approach
Journal: Haematologica
Published on: August 2025

6. High Pretransplant Levels of Erythroferrone Are Predictive for 1-Year All-Cause Mortality and Acute Cellular Rejection after Heart Transplantation
Journal: The Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation
Published on: January 2025

7. New Transcriptomic Biomarkers for Detection of the Recombinant Human Erythropoietin (rHuEPO) MirCERA in Horses
Journal: Frontiers in Veterinary Science
Published on: September 2024

8. Comparison between standard hematological parameters and blood doping biomarkers in dried blood spots within the athlete population of Swiss Sport Integrity
Journal: Haematologica
Published on: September 2024

Conclusion

Dr. Nicolas Leuenberger exemplifies scientific excellence through his pioneering research in anti-doping biomarker discovery, his leadership at the Swiss Laboratory for Doping Analyses, and his dedication to mentoring the next generation of forensic scientists. His contributions have not only advanced the global fight against blood doping but also strengthened the integrity of competitive sports. For these reasons, he is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.