Kawther Akbar | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Kawther Akbar | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Kuwait university | Kuwait

Kawther Akbar is a passionate Kuwaiti biotechnology researcher with a background in both biomedical engineering and genetic research. With a solid academic foundation and hands-on experience in molecular genetics and fiber trait analysis in dromedary camels, she has become a notable contributor to camel genomics and functional trait characterization. Her commitment to excellence in scientific exploration is highlighted by her growing publication record and multiple research awards.

Professional profile👤

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  1. Focused and Emerging Research Niche:

    • Kawther has specialized in a unique and impactful niche: the genetics of fiber traits in dromedary camels, which combines biotechnology, animal genetics, and industrial relevance.

    • This is an underexplored but valuable area, particularly important for the Arabian Peninsula and similar regions where camel-based industries have economic and cultural importance.

  2. Publication Record:

    • She has published two peer-reviewed articles in reputable journals (Kuwait Journal of Science and Small Ruminant Research)—demonstrating early productivity in research.

    • These publications show an ability to take experimental work through to completion and dissemination.

  3. Recognition and Awards:

    • The Graduate Students Research Excellence Award (2025) and Prof. Ahmad Al-Bustan Academic Excellence Award (2023) affirm her academic dedication and peer recognition.

  4. Scientific Engagement and Visibility:

    • Strong record of poster presentations, including at international venues like the International Plant and Animal Genome Conference (PAG) in San Diego. This reflects both scientific rigor and global outreach.

    • Her participation in workshops and coordination activities highlights her leadership and commitment to the scientific community.

  5. Interdisciplinary Background:

    • Her undergraduate degree in Medical Engineering and MSc in Biotechnology provide her with a broad, interdisciplinary foundation, allowing her to integrate engineering with molecular genetics.

🎓 Education

Kawther earned her MSc in Biotechnology from Kuwait University (2020–2024), where she delved into the molecular and genetic aspects of camel fiber variation. Prior to that, she obtained her Bachelor’s in Medical Engineering from Cardiff University, UK (2009–2013). Her academic path reflects a unique blend of engineering precision and biological sciences integration, paving the way for interdisciplinary research.

🧪 Experience

Her research journey began in 2013 with an undergraduate project at Cardiff University focused on micro-engineered polymer capsules for tissue repair under Prof. David Barrow. In 2022, she contributed to a mini research project under Dr. Hasan Alhaddad at Kuwait University, using genotyping by sequencing to explore genetic variations in camel hair types. These formative experiences laid the groundwork for her advanced genomic studies.

🔍 Research Interests On Biotechnology

Kawther’s research interests lie at the intersection of animal genomics, molecular biology, and trait inheritance—specifically in camelid species. She focuses on genes like KRT71 and FGF5 to understand variations in hair shape and texture, aiming to improve classification and utilization of camel fibers for industrial and genetic applications. Her work addresses both scientific curiosity and regional agricultural needs.

🏆 Awards

Kawther’s dedication to research excellence has been recognized through several prestigious honors, including the Graduate Students Research Excellence Award (2025) and the Prof. Ahmad Al-Bustan Academic Excellence Award (2023). These accolades reflect her academic performance, impactful research, and growing leadership in the Kuwaiti scientific community.

📚 Publications

1. “Fiber Characteristics of the Dromedary Camel in the Arabian Peninsula”

  • Authors: Kawther Akbar, Bader H. Alhajeri, Hasan Alhaddad

  • Publication Year: May 2024

2. “Sequencing KRT71 as a Candidate Gene for Hair Shape Variation in Dromedary Camels”

  • Authors: Kawther Akbar, Bader H. Alhajeri, Hasan Alhaddad

  • Publication Year: April 2025

3. “Hair Color at Different Camel Body Regions”

  • Authors: Bader H. Alhajeri, Kawther Akbar, Hasan Alhaddad

  • Publication Year: February 2025

4. “Do Camels Have Ear Furnishings? Hairs of Inner and Outer Surfaces of Camel Pinna and FGF5 Longhair Variants”

  • Authors: Tasneem Maraqa, Amna A. Alrashid, Kawther Akbar, Hasan Alhaddad

  • Publication Year: February 2024

5. “Superior Camel Fibers Due to FGF5 Variants”

  • Authors: Kawther Akbar, Tasneem Maraqa, Bader H. Alhajeri, Hasan Alhaddad

  • Publication Year: February 2024

6. “Sequencing KRT71 as a Candidate Gene for Curly Hair in Dromedary Camels”

  • Authors: Kawther Akbar, Bader H. Alhajeri, Hasan Alhaddad

  • Publication Year: January 2024

7. “Fiber Characteristics of the Dromedary Camel in the Arabian Peninsula” (Preprint)

  • Authors: Kawther Akbar, Bader H. Alhajeri, Hasan Alhaddad

  • Publication Year: January 2024

8. “Optimizing the PCR Conditions for the Amplification of KRT71 Exons in the Dromedary Camel”

  • Authors: Kawther Akbar, Hasan Alhaddad, Bader H. Alhajeri

  • Publication Year: March 2023

9. “Multi-Level Analysis of Dromedary Camel Hair Attributes Across Different Body Parts”

  • Authors: Kawther Akbar, Hasan Alhaddad, Bader H. Alhajeri

  • Publication Year: March 2023

10. “Characterization of Dromedary Camel Fibers for Genetic and Industrial Uses”

  • Authors: Kawther Akbar, Hasan Alhaddad, Bader H. Alhajeri

  • Publication Year: January 2023

🧾 Conclusion

Kawther Akbar stands out as a rising talent in the field of animal biotechnology. With her strong educational background, hands-on genomic research, and dedication to academic excellence, she is well-positioned to lead future innovations in camel fiber genetics. Her active participation in conferences and poster presentations reflects her commitment to sharing knowledge and advancing scientific dialogue. She is a worthy candidate for any award recognizing research innovation and dedication.

Omur Baysal | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Omur Baysal | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Mugla Sitki Kocman University | Turkey

Prof. Dr. Ömür Baysal is a tenured researcher in Molecular Microbiology at Muğla University (Turkey) and an Honorary Professor at the University of Worcester (UK). His work focuses on host-microbe interactions, molecular markers, biological control of pathogens, antibiotic resistance, and bioinformatics (genomics, proteomics, drug discovery). With an H-index of 20, he bridges lab research and computational biology.

Professional profile👤

Google Scholar

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  1. High-Impact Research Output

    • Extensive Publications: Over 35+ SCI/SCI-E indexed journal articles, demonstrating consistent contributions to molecular microbiology, plant-pathogen interactions, and bioinformatics.

    • Diverse Research Areas: Expertise spans host-microbe interactions, antibiotic resistance, biocontrol agents, drug discovery, and omics technologies (genomics, proteomics, metagenomics).

    • Recent High-Profile Works (2023-2024):

      • Anticancer Agents in Medical Chemistry (2024) – Machine learning & cancer research.

      • PLoS ONE (2021) – Computational analysis of SARS-CoV-2.

      • Frontiers in Oncology (2023) – Cold plasma therapy in cancer.

  2. International Collaborations & Recognition

    • Honorary Professorship (UK): Affiliation with the University of Worcester strengthens global research ties.

    • Sabbaticals & Invited Research Roles: Worked at USDA/USA, Volcani Center (Israel), CNR (Italy), CIRAD (France), indicating international recognition.

    • Multi-Country Co-Authorships: Collaborations with researchers from Germany, Israel, Italy, UK, Belarus, etc.

  3. Innovative Methodologies

    • Bioinformatics & AI Integration: Use of machine learning, molecular docking, RNA-seq, and metagenomics in pathogen studies.

    • Biocontrol & Sustainable Agriculture: Focus on biological control agents (Bacillus spp.) and host-induced gene silencing (HIGS).

    • Translational Research: Applied studies on drug discovery (HIV-1, breast cancer, SARS-CoV-2).

  4. Strong Academic Metrics

    • H-index: 20 | I-index: 31 (Google Scholar) – Reflects sustained citation impact.

    • Editorial Roles: Serves as a referee for Frontiers in Microbiology, PLOS ONE, Plant Disease (APS), etc.

Education 🎓

  • B.Sc. (1994): Plant Protection Engineering, Akdeniz University, Turkey.

  • M.Sc. (1997): Phytopathology, Akdeniz University.

  • Ph.D. (2001): Plant Pathology (Bacteriology), University of Göttingen, Germany.

  • Postdoc Training (2007–2014): Volcani Center (Israel), CNR Italy, CIRAD France, USDA/University of Florida (USA).

Experience 💼

  • Current Roles:

    • Professor, Molecular Microbiology & Bioinformatics, Muğla University.

    • Honorary Professor, Biosciences, University of Worcester (UK).

  • Expertise: Molecular diagnostics, biocontrol agents, recombinant DNA, protein-ligand docking, and whole-genome/RNA-seq analysis.

Research Interests On Microbiology 🔍

  • Host-microbe interactions

  • Antibiotic resistance mechanisms

  • Biological control of plant pathogens

  • Bioinformatics (genomics, metagenomics, drug discovery)

  • Enzyme enhancement via recombinant tech

Awards & Honors 🏆

  • High-impact publications (31+ SCI-indexed papers).

  • International collaborations (US, EU, Israel).

  • Editorial roles in Frontiers in MicrobiologyPLoS ONEPlant Pathology, etc.

Publications 📚

  • Title: Induction of defence‐related enzymes and resistance by the plant activator acibenzolar‐S‐methyl in tomato seedlings against bacterial canker caused by Clavibacter michiganensis
    Authors: Ö Baysal, EM Soylu, S Soylu
    Year: 2003
    Cited by: 227

  • Title: Induction of disease resistance by the plant activator, acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM), against bacterial canker (Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis) in tomato seedlings
    Authors: S Soylu, Ö Baysal, EM Soylu
    Year: 2003
    Cited by: 164

  • Title: An inhibitory effect of a new Bacillus subtilis strain (EU07) against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-lycopersici
    Authors: Ö Baysal, M Çalışkan, Ö Yeşilova
    Year: 2008
    Cited by: 151

  • Title: A Proteomic Approach Provides New Insights into the Control of Soil-Borne Plant Pathogens by Bacillus Species
    Authors: Ö Baysal, D Lai, HH Xu, M Siragusa, M Çalışkan, F Carimi, JAT Da Silva, …
    Year: 2013
    Cited by: 124

  • Title: Molecular Characterization of Fusarium oxysporum f. melongenae by ISSR and RAPD Markers on Eggplant
    Authors: Ö Baysal, M Siragusa, E Gümrükcü, S Zengin, F Carimi, M Sajeva, …
    Year: 2010
    Cited by: 112

  • Title: Chemical composition and antifungal activity of the essential oil of Artemisia annua L. against foliar and soil-borne fungal pathogens
    Authors: EM Soylu, H Yiğitbaş, FM Tok, S Soylu, Ş Kurt, Ö Baysal, AD Kaya
    Year: 2005
    Cited by: 109

  • Title: Induction of oxidants in tomato leaves treated with DL-β-Amino butyric acid (BABA) and infected with Clavibacter michiganensis ssp. michiganensis
    Authors: Ö Baysal, YZ Gürsoy, H Örnek, A Duru
    Year: 2005
    Cited by: 108

  • Title: Acibenzolar-S-methyl induced resistance to Phytophthora capsici in pepper leaves
    Authors: O Baysal, C Turgut, G Mao
    Year: 2005
    Cited by: 75

  • Title: Extract of Hedera helix induces resistance on apple rootstock M26 similar to Acibenzolar-S-methyl against Fire Blight (Erwinia amylovora)
    Authors: Ö Baysal, W Zeller
    Year: 2004
    Cited by: 67

  • Title: Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici races and their genetic discrimination by molecular markers in West Mediterranean region of Turkey
    Authors: Ö Baysal, M Siragusa, H İkten, İ Polat, E Gümrükcü, F Yigit, F Carimi, …
    Year: 2009
    Cited by: 61

Conclusion 🌟

Prof. Baysal is a pioneer in molecular plant-microbe interactions, blending wet-lab and computational tools. His work on biocontrol agents, antibiotic resistance, and drug discovery has global impact, supported by international collaborations and high-profile publications. A leader in both academia and applied research.

Rafiq Ahmad | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rafiq Ahmad | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Research associate | National Ilan University | Taiwan

Rafiq Ahmad is a dedicated researcher specializing in poultry nutrition, biotechnology, and animal sciences. With a strong academic background and extensive research experience, he focuses on improving poultry health and productivity through innovative nutritional strategies. His work spans multiple disciplines, including molecular biology, veterinary medicine, and fisheries, contributing to the advancement of sustainable poultry farming.

Profile👤

Google Scholar

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards🎗️

  • Strong Research Output

    • Published multiple high-impact research papers in indexed journals (e.g., Animals, Fermentation, Animal Bioscience).
    • Research covers heat stress, probiotics, and gut health in poultry, which are crucial for sustainable animal nutrition.
    • Involvement in working papers and book chapters demonstrates ongoing contributions to the field.
  • International Recognition & Contributions

    • Acted as a reviewer for high-impact journals (Animals, Animal Nutrition, Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition), proving expertise in peer-reviewed research evaluation.
    • Presented research at international conferences, including the BEST Conference in Taiwan (2024).
  • Academic Excellence & Awards

    • Received fully funded Ph.D. scholarship from National Ilan University (Taiwan), indicating academic merit.
    • Recognized for outstanding performance (ICI Life Sciences Award, 2014-2015) and Prime Minister’s Tuition Waiver Scholarship (Pakistan).
  • Technical Expertise & Methodological Rigor

    • Strong lab skills: qRT-PCR, cDNA synthesis, gut microbiota analysis, Western blot analysis, and solid-state fermentation.
    • Research applies molecular biology techniques to poultry nutrition, making it highly interdisciplinary and impactful.

Education 🎓

Rafiq Ahmad pursued his Ph.D. in Poultry Nutrition (Biotechnology) at National Ilan University, Taiwan (2021-2024). Prior to that, he earned a Master’s degree in Animal Nutrition from the University of Agriculture Peshawar, Pakistan (2015-2017) and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the same institution (2009-2014). His academic journey is marked by excellence and a commitment to research-driven advancements in animal nutrition.

Experience 💼

Rafiq Ahmad has gained significant experience in academia and industry. He has served as a reviewer for esteemed journals such as Animals (March 2024), Animal Nutrition (September 2024), and the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition (October 2024). He worked as a Project Assistant at Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan (2017-2020) and as a Technical Services Officer at ICI Pakistan (2014-2016). His roles have enriched his expertise in poultry diet formulation, molecular biology, and veterinary medicine.

Research Interests On Biotechnology 🔍

Rafiq Ahmad’s research focuses on poultry nutrition, poultry diet formulation, molecular biology, animal sciences, veterinary medicine, fisheries, and ruminant nutrition. His Ph.D. thesis explores the efficacy of probiotics in mitigating heat stress, improving gut health, and enhancing growth performance in poultry.

Awards 🏆

He has received several prestigious awards, including the Fully Funded Scholarship for his Ph.D. at National Ilan University (2021-2024), the ICI Life Sciences Nationally Best Performance Award (Turkey, 2014-2015), and the Prime Minister of Pakistan’s Tuition Waiver Scholarship for his Master’s degree (2015-2017). These accolades highlight his academic and professional excellence.

Publications 📚

  • Influence of heat stress on poultry growth performance, intestinal inflammation, and immune function and potential mitigation by probiotics

    • Authors: R. Ahmad, Y.H. Yu, F.S.H. Hsiao, C.H. Su, H.C. Liu, I. Tobin, G. Zhang, …
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 62
  • Probiotics as a friendly antibiotic alternative: assessment of their effects on the health and productive performance of poultry

    • Authors: R. Ahmad, Y.H. Yu, F.S.H. Hsiao, A. Dybus, I. Ali, H.C. Hsu, Y.H. Cheng
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 21
  • Management and control of coccidiosis in poultry—A review

    • Authors: R. Ahmad, Y.H. Yu, K.F. Hua, W.J. Chen, D. Zaborski, A. Dybus, F.S.H. Hsiao, …
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 17
  • Impact of Bacillus licheniformis-Fermented Products on Growth and Productivity in Heat-Stressed Laying Ducks

    • Authors: Y.H.C. Rafiq Ahmad, Yu-Hsiang Yu, Felix Shih-Hsiang Hsiao, Hsiu-Wei Liu, Chin …
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 1*
  • Probiotics as an Alternative to Antibiotics in Poultry

    • Authors: R.A. Abdul Qadeer, Qismat Ullah, Baitullah Khan, Muhammad Idrees, Noor …
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: Not provided
  • Role of Probiotics in Prevention of Avian Coccidiosis

    • Authors: Zulfiqar Ahmad, Hanif Ur Rahman, Rafiq Ahmad, Abdul Qadeer, Muhammad Ahmad …
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: Not provided
  • The Impact of Fermented Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid on Poultry Growth Performance Through Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 Activation

    • Authors: Not provided
    • Year: Not provided
    • Citations: Not provided

Conclusion 🏞️

Rafiq Ahmad’s contributions to poultry nutrition and biotechnology are shaping the future of sustainable animal agriculture. His interdisciplinary expertise, impactful research, and dedication to improving poultry health make him a valuable asset to the field. With a strong foundation in academia and industry, he continues to drive innovation and excellence in animal sciences.