Mian Sahib Zar | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Review Paper Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Mian Sahib Zar | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Review Paper Award

Hamdard College of Health Sciences (HCHS), Buner | Pakistan

Assist. Prof. Dr. Mian Sahib Zar is an interdisciplinary researcher in forensic molecular biology, forensic genetics, and applied synthetic biology, with a strong focus on DNA-based human identification, forensic SNP/STR systems, ancient DNA, and multi-omics applications in postmortem investigations. His research portfolio includes 18 Scopus-indexed publications, accumulating 224 citations with an h-index of 8 (Scopus). He has contributed to high-impact international journals and Springer book chapters, advancing methodologies in degraded DNA analysis, forensic population genetics, and molecular diagnostics. His work bridges forensic science with applied biotechnology and translational research, strengthening evidence-based forensic investigations.

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Featured Publications


Ferulic acid promoted in-situ generation of AgNPs@silk as functional colorants

– Journal of Cleaner Production, 2018 · Cited by 38


Y-chromosomal STR analysis in the Pashtun population of Southern Afghanistan

– Forensic Science International: Genetics 6 (4), e103-e105, 2012 · Cited by 18

Marlin Touma | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Marlin Touma | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Faculty | UCLA – David Geffen School of Medicine | United States

Dr. Marlin Touma is an esteemed physician-scientist specializing in neonatal-perinatal medicine, congenital heart defects, and cardiovascular research. She currently serves as an Associate Professor-in-Residence at the David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA. With extensive experience in both clinical and research settings, Dr. Touma has contributed significantly to understanding congenital heart disease, neonatal cardiovascular development, and regenerative medicine. She is the Director of the UCLA Congenital Heart Defects Research Program and the UCLA Congenital Heart Defects-BioCore.

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Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Extensive Research and Leadership

    • Founder and Principal Investigator of the UCLA Congenital Heart Defects-BioCore since 2013.
    • Director of the UCLA Congenital Heart Defects Research Program since 2020.
    • Multiple leadership roles at David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA.
  • Significant Contributions to Cardiovascular Research

    • Ph.D. in Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Physiology from UCLA.
    • Research on genetics and genomics of congenital heart defects, a critical area in neonatal-perinatal medicine.
    • Involvement in NIH research programs and review panels, demonstrating national recognition.
  • Recognition and Awards

    • Outstanding Research Award (Mead Johnson, 2011, American Academy of Pediatrics).
    • Finalist Award (2021 Mid-Career Research Scholar Award, International Society for Heart Research).
    • Multiple invited speaker and session chair roles at AHA, ISHR, and UCLA cardiovascular symposia.
    • Travel and research awards from AHA, NIH, and other prestigious institutions.
  • Educational and Clinical Excellence

    • Trained at Harvard Medical School, UCLA, and Damascus University.
    • Board-certified in General Pediatrics and Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine.
    • Director of programs that integrate cutting-edge research with clinical applications.

🎓 Education

  • M.D. (1992) – Damascus University School of Medicine, Syria
  • Pediatrics Residency (1992-1996) – Children’s Hospital of Damascus University, Syria
  • Senior Pediatric Residency (1995-1996) – Children’s Hospital of Damascus University, Syria
  • Master’s Degree (Postgraduate Diploma) (1997) – Damascus University, Syria
  • Pediatrics Residency (2005-2008) – Dell Children’s Medical Center, University of Texas Medical Branch, USA
  • Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Fellowship (2008-2011) – Harvard Medical School, USA
  • Ph.D. in Molecular, Cellular & Integrative Physiology (2015) – University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), USA

💼 Experience

  • Current Positions:
    • Associate Professor-in-Residence, Department of Pediatrics, UCLA
    • Director, UCLA Congenital Heart Defects-BioCore
    • Director, UCLA Congenital Heart Defects Research Program
  • Previous Positions:
    • Clinical Instructor in Pediatrics, UCLA (2011-2014)
    • Assistant Professor-in-Residence, UCLA (2014-2021)
    • Fellow in Neonatology, Harvard Medical School (2008-2011)
    • Pediatric Resident, Dell Children’s Medical Center, University of Texas Medical Branch (2005-2008)
    • Senior Pediatrician, Al Obaid General Hospital, Saudi Arabia (2000-2002)

📝 Research Interests On Genetics

Dr. Touma’s research focuses on congenital heart defects, neonatal cardiovascular development, and gene-environment interactions in heart disease. She is particularly interested in molecular mechanisms regulating heart development, regenerative therapies, and translational approaches to improve pediatric cardiovascular health.

🏆 Awards & Honors

  • Award for Excellence (Top Ten Students in Country) – Syrian Ministry of Higher Education
  • Best Resident in Pediatrics Award – Damascus University
  • Outstanding Research Award – American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference (2011)
  • UCLA STAR Award for Doctoral Scholarship Admission (2011)
  • Finalist Award – Mid-Career Research Scholar Award – International Society for Heart Research (2021)
  • International Abstract Travel Award – International Society for Heart Research (2022)
  • Distinguished Speaker & Session Chair – Multiple conferences, including AHA and ISHR

📚 Publications

Dr. Touma has authored numerous research articles in high-impact journals. Some selected publications include:

  • Repression of Sox9 by Jag1 is continuously required to suppress the default chondrogenic fate of vascular smooth muscle cells

    • Authors: A Briot, A Jaroszewicz, CM Warren, J Lu, M Touma, C Rudat, JJ Hofmann, …
    • Year: 2014
    • Citations: 81
  • COVID-19: molecular diagnostics overview

    • Author: M Touma
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 76
  • Nkx2-5 suppresses the proliferation of atrial myocytes and conduction system

    • Authors: Y Nakashima, DA Yanez, M Touma, H Nakano, A Jaroszewicz, …
    • Year: 2014
    • Citations: 68
  • Whole genome sequencing identifies SCN2A mutation in monozygotic twins with Ohtahara syndrome and unique neuropathologic findings

    • Authors: M Touma, M Joshi, MC Connolly, P Ellen Grant, AR Hansen, O Khwaja, …
    • Year: 2013
    • Citations: 63
  • Decoding the long noncoding RNA during cardiac maturation: a roadmap for functional discovery

    • Authors: M Touma, X Kang, Y Zhao, AA Cass, F Gao, R Biniwale, G Coppola, …
    • Year: 2016
    • Citations: 48
  • Improved pulmonary vascular reactivity and decreased hypertrophic remodeling during nonhypercapnic acidosis in experimental pulmonary hypertension

    • Authors: H Christou, OM Reslan, V Mam, AF Tanbe, SH Vitali, M Touma, E Arons, …
    • Year: 2012
    • Citations: 38
  • Ppp1r1b-lncRNA inhibits PRC2 at myogenic regulatory genes to promote cardiac and skeletal muscle development in mouse and human

    • Authors: X Kang, Y Zhao, G Van Arsdell, SF Nelson, M Touma
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 36
  • p38 Mitogen-activated protein kinase regulates chamber-specific perinatal growth in heart

    • Authors: T Yokota, J Li, J Huang, Z Xiong, Q Zhang, T Chan, Y Ding, C Rau, …
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 34
  • Maternal calorie restriction causing uteroplacental insufficiency differentially affects mammalian placental glucose and leucine transport molecular mechanisms

    • Authors: A Ganguly, M Touma, S Thamotharan, DC De Vivo, SU Devaskar
    • Year: 2016
    • Citations: 30
  • Wnt11 regulates cardiac chamber development and disease during perinatal maturation

    • Authors: M Touma, X Kang, F Gao, Y Zhao, AA Cass, R Biniwale, X Xiao, …
    • Year: 2017
    • Citations: 27
  • Echocardiographic markers of pulmonary hemodynamics and right ventricular hypertrophy in rat models of pulmonary hypertension

    • Authors: F Spyropoulos, SH Vitali, M Touma, CD Rose, CR Petty, P Levy, …
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 23
  • A path to implement precision child health cardiovascular medicine

    • Authors: M Touma, B Reemtsen, N Halnon, J Alejos, JP Finn, SF Nelson, Y Wang
    • Year: 2017
    • Citations: 17

📄 Conclusion

Dr. Marlin Touma is a renowned expert in neonatal cardiovascular research with an impressive track record of clinical excellence, academic achievements, and innovative research. As a leading scientist in congenital heart defects and pediatric cardiology, her work continues to shape the future of neonatal medicine and cardiovascular health worldwide.

Seong Yeon Yoo | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Seong Yeon Yoo | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | National Forensic Service | South Korea

Dr. Seong Yeon Yoo is a distinguished forensic scientist specializing in forensic DNA analysis and bioinformatics. With over 18 years of experience at the National Forensic Service (NFS) in South Korea, she has contributed significantly to the advancement of DNA database management and forensic applications. Her expertise extends internationally, having conducted research at the Netherlands Forensic Institute.

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Strengths for the Awards

  • Extensive Experience in Forensic Science
    Dr. Yoo has an impressive career spanning over 18 years at the National Forensic Service, where she has served as a Senior Researcher and DNA Database Team Leader. Her leadership in forensic DNA division highlights her authority in the field.
  • International Collaboration and Research Fellowship
    During her tenure at the Netherlands Forensic Institute, Dr. Yoo gained valuable international exposure. This collaboration showcases her adaptability and her ability to apply innovative methods to forensic science globally.
  • Educational Excellence
    With a doctorate in Bioinformatics and a master’s in Molecular Biology, Dr. Yoo combines theoretical expertise with applied science, demonstrated through impactful research topics such as influenza RNA polymerase reconstitution and SNP profiling for Korean-specific forensic applications.

Education 🎓

  • Doctorate in Bioinformatics (2015), Konju National University
    Thesis: “Towards Reconstitution of Influenza RNA-dependent RNA polymerase from Recombinant Proteins”
  • Master’s in Molecular Biology (2006), Yonsei University
    Thesis: “Studies on profiling and forensic applications of Korean-specific SNPs from Whole Exome Sequencing data”

Experience 💼

  • Senior Researcher & Team Leader (2006–Present), National Forensic Service
    Leading the DNA Database Team, specializing in DNA profiling and forensic investigations.
  • Research Fellow (2013–2014), Netherlands Forensic Institute
    Contributed to the Department of Human Biological Traces, enhancing techniques for forensic DNA analysis.

Research Interests On Genetics🔬

Dr. Yoo’s research focuses on:

  • Forensic DNA profiling and database management
  • Bioinformatics applications in genetic analysis
  • SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) profiling for forensic and population-specific studies
  • Influenza RNA polymerase reconstitution and protein modeling

Awards 🏆

Dr. Yoo has been recognized for her exceptional contributions to forensic science and genetic research. While specific awards are not listed, her leadership roles and sustained involvement in high-profile forensic science organizations highlight her accolades in the field.

Publications 📚

1. Comparative transcriptomic analysis provides novel insights into mescaline biosynthesis by Lophophora williamsii

  • Authors: Eun‐Mi Hwang, Kyu‐Sik Jeong, Seong Yeon Yoo, Jihyun Kim, Sanggil Choe, Joo‐Young Kim
  • Publication Year: 2024
  • Citations: Not available yet (recently published).

2. Beyond the mix: Advancements in simultaneous detection and quantification of human, dog, and cat DNA

  • Authors: Hyeon‐Jin Bae, Kyu‐Sik Jeong, Jung‐Eun Kim, Eun‐Mi Hwang, Seong Yeon Yoo
  • Publication Year: 2024
  • Citations: Not available yet (recently published).

3. Development of a diagnostic variable number tandem repeat marker and dual TaqMan genotyping assay to distinguish Lophophora species

  • Authors: Eun-Mi Hwang, Kyu-Sik Jeong, Seong Yeon Yoo, Jihyun Kim, Sanggil Choe, Joo-Young Kim
  • Publication Year: 2024
  • Citations: Not available yet (recently published).

4. Simplified Direct PCR Method for Reference Buccal Samples Using a Non‐FTA Card by Omitting the Pretreatment Step

  • Authors: Ju Yeon Jung, Ga Hee Ryu, Da‐Hye Kim, Joo‐Young Kim, In Kwan Hwang, Pil‐Won Kang, Byung Won Chun, Seong Yeon Yoo
  • Publication Year: 2020
  • Citations: Not available in the provided data.

5. Identification of Korean-specific SNP markers from whole-exome sequencing data

  • Authors: Sung Min Kim, Seong Yeon Yoo, Soo Hyun Nam, Jae Moon Lee, Ki Wha Chung
  • Publication Year: 2016
  • Citations: Not available in the provided data.

6. Evaluation of samples comprising minute amounts of DNA

  • Authors: Corina Benschop, Hinda Haned, Seong Yeon Yoo, Titia Sijen
  • Publication Year: 2015
  • Citations: Not available in the provided data.

7. Autosomal STR loci for improving the kinship discrimination power for missing children and forensic application

  • Authors: Seong Yeon Yoo, Sang Hyun An, Ji Hye Park, Na Yeon Kim, Young Ae Lee, Jong Jin Kim, Ki Won Park, Ki Wha Chung
  • Publication Year: 2014
  • Citations: Not available in the provided data.

8. Genetic polymorphisms of eight X-STR loci of Mentype Argus X-8 kit in Koreans

  • Authors: Seong Yeon Yoo, Nam Soo Cho, Sun Wha Park, Jung Hee Hwang, Je Nyun Kim, Ki Wha Chung, Myun Soo Han
  • Publication Year: 2011
  • Citations: Not available in the provided data.

9. Population genetic polymorphisms of 17 Y-chromosomal STR loci in South Koreans

  • Authors: Ki Min Seong, Seong Yeon Yoo, Jung Ho Hwang, Soon Hee Kim, Ki Wha Chung, Nam Soo Cho
  • Publication Year: 2011
  • Citations: Not available in the provided data.

10. A Large Population Genetic Study of 15 Autosomal Short Tandem Repeat Loci for Establishment of Korean DNA Profile Database

  • Authors: Seong Yeon Yoo, Nam Soo Cho, Myung Jin Park, Ki Min Seong, Jung Ho Hwang, Seok Bean Song, Myun Soo Han, Won Tae Lee, Ki Wha Chung
  • Publication Year: 2011
  • Citations: Not available in the provided data.

Professional Activities 🌍

  • DNA Database Operation Committee Member (2023–Present)
  • Asian Forensic Science Network Member (2011–Present)
  • ISFG Korean-Speaking Working Group Member (2011–Present)
  • The Korean Society of Forensic Sciences Member (2006–Present)

Conclusion 🌟

Dr. Seong Yeon Yoo exemplifies leadership and innovation in forensic science. Her extensive experience, groundbreaking research, and dedication to advancing forensic applications make her a cornerstone of the scientific community.

Badriah Alkathiri | Genomics | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Badriah Alkathiri | Genomics | Best Researcher Award

PhD | Chungbuk National University | South Korea

Dr. Badriah Alkathiri is a distinguished researcher in veterinary parasitology with a strong focus on mechanistic and ingredient research. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Chungbuk National University in South Korea, her work revolves around studying tick-borne pathogens, utilizing advanced analytical tools. With multiple accolades and publications, she actively contributes to advancing veterinary science and parasitology globally.

Profile

Scopus

Strenghts for the Awards

  1. Academic Excellence:
    • PhD in Veterinary Parasitology (2021–2025): Currently pursuing advanced research with significant contributions to parasitology.
    • Dual Master’s Degrees:
      • MSc in Biotechnology (Korea University, 2019).
      • MSc in Parasitology (King Saud University, 2016).
    • Broad educational foundation, including a Bachelor’s in Zoology.
  2. Research Contributions:
    • Publications: Authored/co-authored 12 impactful research papers, including studies on tick-borne pathogens, zoonotic diseases, and molecular epidemiology, in high-impact journals such as Scientific Reports and Pathogens.
    • Collaborations: Cooperative work with the Korean Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency on cutting-edge tick-borne pathogen projects.
    • Diverse Research Focus: Includes parasitology, microbiota, and zoonotic disease outbreaks, showcasing adaptability and depth in the field.
  3. Awards & Recognitions:
    • Winner of Best Oral Presentation (Korean Basic Medical Conference, 2024).
    • Multiple Best Poster Awards in prestigious conferences (e.g., 2023 Korean Society for Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, 2014 World Congress of Internal Medicine).
    • Active conference participation with both oral and poster presentations, demonstrating her ability to communicate research effectively.
  4. Professional and Voluntary Contributions:
    • Experience in R&D roles, particularly in mechanistic and ingredient research (Biocoz Global Korea Corp).
    • Voluntary teaching roles (e.g., Arabic teacher, Islamic Center Seoul), indicating strong leadership, cultural adaptability, and commitment to community service.
  5. Multilingual Skills: Fluent in Arabic, English, and Korean, making her an effective global researcher who can collaborate across linguistic and cultural boundaries.
  6. Soft and Practical Skills:
    • Proficient in time management, teamwork, and multitasking under pressure.
    • Hands-on technical expertise in parasitology and related fields.

Education 🎓

  • Ph.D. Student (2021–2025): Veterinary Parasitology, Chungbuk National University, South Korea
  • Master of Science (2019): Biotechnology, Korea University, South Korea
  • Master of Science (2016): Parasitology, King Saud University, Saudi Arabia
  • Bachelor’s Degree (2009): Zoology, Princess Nora University, Saudi Arabia

Career Experience 💼

Dr. Alkathiri has held several significant positions:

  • Researcher in R&D (2019–2021): Biocoz Global Korea Corp, Seoul
  • Korean Translator and Teacher (2019–2021): Various roles, including volunteering in Seoul
  • Science Teacher (2011): Al-Orwa Al-Wuthqa School, Riyadh
    Her career demonstrates a blend of research, education, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Alkathiri’s research focuses on:

  • Tick-borne pathogens and their molecular characterization
  • Veterinary parasitology with an emphasis on tick-host-pathogen interactions
  • Zoonotic diseases and gut microbiota studies in animals

Awards and Achievements 🏆

  • Best Oral Presentation (2024): Korean Basic Medical Conference, Seoul, South Korea
  • Best Poster Award (2023): Korean Society for Parasitology and Tropical Medicine
  • Best Poster Award (2014): 32nd World Congress of Internal Medicine, Seoul

Publications 📚

  • Title: 16S rRNA metabarcoding for the identification of tick-borne bacteria in ticks in the Republic of Korea
    Authors: Alkathiri, B., Lee, S., Ahn, K., Shin, S., Lee, S.-H.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
  • Title: Molecular detection and characterization of Acanthamoeba infection in dogs and its association with keratitis in Korea
    Authors: Lee, S., Alkathiri, B., Jung, J.S., Park, K.-M., Lee, S.-H.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 0
  • Title: Outbreak of severe diarrhea due to zoonotic Cryptosporidium parvum and C. xiaoi in goat kids in Chungcheongbuk-do, Korea
    Authors: Kim, A.-Y., Alkathiri, B., Lee, S., Kwak, D., Lee, S.-H.
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 1
  • Title: Tick Populations and Molecular Analysis of Anaplasma Species in Ticks from the Republic of Korea
    Authors: Seo, M.-G., Lee, H., Alkathiri, B., Kwon, O.-D., Kwak, D.
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 4
  • Title: Molecular epidemiology of Theileria species in ticks and its potential threat to livestock in the Republic of Korea
    Authors: Alkathiri, B., Ahn, K., Lee, H., Shin, S., Lee, S.-H.
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 4
  • Title: Two cases of ectopic dirofilariasis by Dirofilaria immitis in subconjunctival and subcutaneous tissues in dogs
    Authors: Goh, Y.-S., Kim, H.-M., Alkathiri, B., Lee, S.-H., Park, K.-M.
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 4
  • Title: Distribution of Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infection in Domestic Pigs in the Republic of Korea: Nationwide Survey from 2020-2021
    Authors: Lee, S., Alkathiri, B., Kwak, D., Byun, J.-W., Lee, S.-H.
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 3
  • Title: Pomegranate (Punica granatum) juice shows antioxidant activity against cutaneous leishmaniasis-induced oxidative stress in female BALB/c mice
    Authors: Alkathiri, B., El-Khadragy, M.F., Metwally, D.M., Bakhrebah, M.A., Moneim, A.E.A.
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 18
  • Title: Anti-leishmanial activity (in vitro and in vivo) of allicin and allicin cream using leishmania major (sub-strain zymowme LON4) and Balb/c Mice
    Authors: Metwally, D.M., Al-Olayan, E.M., El-Khadragy, M.F., Alkathiri, B.
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 16

Conclusion 🌟

Dr. Badriah Alkathiri exemplifies dedication to scientific innovation and collaborative research in veterinary parasitology. Her academic and professional journey is marked by impactful contributions to science, leadership in research, and global engagement.