Ajay Kumar Rana | Biology and Life Sciences | Outstanding Contribution to Forensic Biology Award

Dr. Ajay Kumar Rana | Biology and Life Sciences | Outstanding Contribution to Forensic Biology Award

Central Forensic Science Laboratory | India

Dr. Ajay Kumar Rana is a highly accomplished forensic biologist and Scientist-B at the Central Forensic Science Laboratory, Hyderabad, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, India, with over a decade of expertise in DNA analysis, serology, and forensic molecular biology. He earned his Ph.D. from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi/Central Drug Research Institute, where he conducted pioneering work on methyltransferases of Wolbachia endosymbionts and anti-filarial drug development, followed by postdoctoral training at the Israel Institute of Technology (Technion-IIT) focusing on tRNA methyltransferases and ribonucleases. Dr. Ajay Kumar Rana’s professional journey spans roles from Scientific Assistant to Assistant Director (Biology) at the State Forensic Science Laboratory, Jharkhand, and now leadership of the DNA/Biology Division at CFSL Hyderabad, where he manages NABL-accredited laboratories, oversees quality compliance, and supervises forensic sample analysis. He has reported over 750 cases, attended more than 35 crime scenes, and mentored numerous scientific assistants and law enforcement personnel in forensic protocols. His research integrates molecular biology, DNA methylation, and advanced forensic genetics, including strategies for extracting DNA from challenging samples, contributing to both theoretical knowledge and practical forensic applications. Dr. Ajay Kumar Rana has published 12 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, accumulating 208 citations with an h-index of 8, as indexed in Scopus, in journals including Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy (2013), Frontiers in Genetics (2016), and Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences (2018). Recognized with prestigious awards including the DST-SERB International Travel Award, CSIR fellowships, and national competitive selections, Dr. Rana exemplifies scientific excellence, innovation, and dedication to advancing forensic biology.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar | ORCID | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

Rana, A. K., & Misra-Bhattacharya, S. (2013). Current drug targets for helminthic diseases. Parasitology Research, 112(5), 1819–1831.

Rana, A. K., & Ankri, S. (2016). Reviving the RNA world: An insight into the appearance of RNA methyltransferases. Frontiers in Genetics, 7, 99.

Rana, A. K., & Kumar, N. (2023). Current wildlife crime (Indian scenario): Major challenges and prevention approaches. Biodiversity and Conservation, 32(5), 1473–1491.

Rana, A. K. (2018). Crime investigation through DNA methylation analysis: Methods and applications in forensics. Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences, 8(7), 38.

Kushwaha, S., Singh, P. K., Rana, A. K., & Misra-Bhattacharya, S. (2011). Cloning, expression, purification and kinetics of trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase of filarial parasite Brugia malayi. Acta Tropica, 119(2–3), 151–159.

Kumar, N., Yadav, V. K., & Rana, A. K. (2017). Wildlife forensic: Current techniques and their limitations. Journal of Forensic Science & Criminology, 5(4), 402.

Singh, P. K., Kushwaha, S., Rana, A. K., & Misra-Bhattacharya, S. (2014). Cofactor independent phosphoglycerate mutase of Brugia malayi induces a mixed Th1/Th2 type immune response and inhibits larval development in the host. BioMed Research International, 2014, 590281.

Kushwaha, S., Singh, P. K., Rana, A. K., & Misra-Bhattacharya, S. (2013). Immunization of Mastomys coucha with Brugia malayi recombinant trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase results in significant protection against homologous challenge infection. PLoS ONE, 8(8), e72585.

Yang Li | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Yang Li | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University | China

Mrs. Yang Li is a committed attending doctor at the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, where she integrates clinical service with translational research. With a strong foundation in endocrinology and metabolic diseases, her academic and clinical endeavors focus on diabetic complications, particularly type 2 diabetic nephropathy. Her contributions to both provincial and national-level projects highlight her dedication to improving patient outcomes through evidence-based research.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Mrs. Yang Li began her academic journey in clinical medicine at Tongji Medical College, one of China’s top-tier medical institutions. She specialized in endocrinology and metabolic diseases, laying a strong academic foundation in chronic disease management, hormonal regulation, and metabolic dysfunctions. Her education was marked by excellence in both theoretical understanding and hands-on training in hospital environments. Continuing her commitment to academic advancement, she is currently pursuing an academic master’s degree, with research embedded into her clinical role. Her educational path reflects a lifelong commitment to improving the diagnosis, treatment, and understanding of chronic metabolic disorders such as diabetes and its complications.

Experience

Mrs. Li’s professional experience encompasses extensive clinical practice, medical education, and rigorous scientific research. At the First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, she functions both as a frontline clinician and a research investigator. Her clinical work has given her firsthand insight into the complexities of diabetic complications, particularly diabetic nephropathy. This experience fuels her research endeavors, allowing her to design studies that are both clinically relevant and methodologically sound. She has independently led two provincially funded research projects and participated in two nationally funded projects under the National Natural Science Foundation of China. Her dual role has equipped her with the skills to integrate clinical questions into laboratory settings and translate scientific findings back into patient care protocols.

Research Interest

Mrs. Li’s core research interests revolve around type 2 diabetic nephropathy, particularly the molecular mechanisms driving renal damage in diabetic patients. Her work investigates the interplay between metabolic stress, adipose tissue function, vascular endothelial integrity, and renal cellular injury. Of special interest is the role of perirenal adipose tissue in modulating the onset and progression of diabetic kidney disease, a relatively underexplored area that may yield novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. She is also interested in transcriptomics, signaling pathways such as TGF-β1, and the protective role of ACE2–Ang-(1-7)–Mas receptor axes in pancreatic and renal tissues. Through her research, she aims to uncover early biomarkers and develop targeted interventions that can prevent or slow the progression of diabetic nephropathy.

Award

Mrs. Yang Li is an exemplary nominee for the Best Researcher Award, a recognition that would honor her persistent and impactful contributions to clinical science. Her ability to lead government-funded projects, publish in respected international journals, and remain active in frontline patient care places her among the most promising early-career physician-researchers in China. The translational nature of her research directly addresses one of the world’s most pressing public health concerns: diabetes and its complications. Her leadership, scientific rigor, and commitment to evidence-based medicine make her a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Publications

Mrs. Yang Li has published four peer-reviewed articles in reputable SCI-indexed journals, reflecting her growing influence in the field of diabetic complications. Each of her publications contributes to a deeper understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms behind diabetes and its impact on vital organs:

Title: Ang (1-7) protects islet endothelial cells from palmitate-induced apoptosis via AKT, eNOS, p38 MAPK, and JNK pathways
Journal: Journal of Diabetes Research
Published on: 2014
Citation: Cited by 64 articles

Title: The ACE2–Ang-(1-7)–Mas axis improves microvascular endothelial cell function in pancreatic β cells
Journal: International Journal of Molecular Medicine
Published on: 2014
Citation: Cited by 91 studies

Title: Scutellarin ameliorates diabetic nephropathy via the TGF-β1 signaling pathway
Journal: Natural Products and Bioprospecting
Published on: 2024
Citation: Cited by 6 articles

Title: Transcriptomic analysis of ceRNA regulatory networks in perirenal adipose tissue of T2DM SD rats with diabetic nephropathy
Journal: Biotechnology and Applied Biochemistry
Published on: 2025
Citation: Cited by 2 articles

Conclusion

Mrs. Yang Li exemplifies the integration of clinical excellence and scientific innovation. Her work has advanced the understanding of diabetic nephropathy at both cellular and systemic levels, contributing new insights into its prevention and treatment. By combining patient care with a robust research portfolio, she continues to bridge the gap between laboratory discovery and clinical application. Her academic background, research leadership, and impactful publications collectively highlight her qualifications for prestigious research recognition. With her contributions resonating across endocrinology and nephrology, Mrs. Yang Li stands as a valuable asset to the medical and scientific community.

Ishita Biswas | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ishita Biswas | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | S.B.S. Government College, Hili | India

Dr. Ishita Biswas is an esteemed Assistant Professor in Botany at S. B. S. Government College, Hili, West Bengal, India. With a rich academic background in microbiology and plant sciences, she has made remarkable contributions to microbial research and plant biochemistry. Her dedication to advancing scientific knowledge is evident through her extensive research, numerous accolades, and commitment to mentoring young scholars.

Professional profile👤

Google Scholar

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • 🌟 Academic Excellence: Dr. Biswas has consistently excelled academically, earning top ranks throughout her educational journey, including a silver medal for securing the second position in her Master of Science in Botany.
  • 📊 Research Contributions: She has published 17 full-length research papers in reputed journals, including Elsevier and MDPI, showcasing a diverse range of research interests from plant biochemistry to microbiology.
  • 🏅 Awards and Recognition: Her achievements include multiple “Best Presenter” and “Outstanding Paper” awards at international conferences, reflecting her ability to effectively communicate research findings.
  • 🧬 GenBank Submissions: Submission of seven gene sequences to NCBI highlights her contributions to genetic research, which is a valuable addition to the scientific community.
  • 👩‍🏫 Professional Involvement: Active participation in academic committees, student welfare initiatives, and administrative roles demonstrates her dedication to institutional development.
  • 🌐 Interdisciplinary Approach: Her research integrates microbiology, biochemistry, and plant physiology, reflecting a multidisciplinary perspective.
  • 📈 Competitive Edge: Qualifying for prestigious exams like UGC JRF-NET, GATE, and SET further underscores her academic rigor and research potential.

Education 🎓

Dr. Biswas’s academic journey began at WBBSE, where she completed her secondary education with distinction. She earned her B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Botany from the University of North Bengal, securing first-class honors. Her quest for knowledge led her to pursue a B.Ed. and ultimately a Ph.D. in Microbiology from Raiganj University in 2024. Additionally, she qualified for prestigious examinations such as UGC JRF-NET, NET-LS, SET, and GATE, showcasing her academic excellence.

Experience 💼

Currently serving as an Assistant Professor at S. B. S. Government College, Hili, Dr. Biswas plays an active role in various academic and administrative committees. She has served as the Convener of the Students’ Welfare & Disciplinary Sub-Committee and Joint Convener of the Routine Sub-Committee and Women Grievance & Redressal Cell. Additionally, she contributes to the External Examination, Sports, Internal Complaint, UGC, and Website Sub-Committees.

Research Interests On Biology 🔬

Dr. Biswas’s research interests lie in plant biochemistry, plant physiology, and microbiology. Her work focuses on microbial interactions, enzyme characterization, and exploring natural methods for environmental remediation. She is particularly passionate about studying plant-microbe interactions and harnessing microbial potential for sustainable agriculture and bioremediation.

Awards 🏆

  • Silver Medal from the Honorable Governor for securing First Class Second Position in M.Sc. Botany, University of North Bengal (2013).
  • “Best Presenter Award” at the 7th Annual International Conference Biospectrum 2023, organized by the University of Engineering and Management, Kolkata, in collaboration with Universiti Sains Malaysia (2023).
  • “Outstanding Paper Award” at the 6th Regional Science & Technology Congress (Region 2) (2023-24).
  • “Best Presenter Award” at the 8th Annual International Conference Biospectrum 2024, organized by the University of Engineering and Management, Kolkata, in collaboration with the University of Iasi, Romania (2024).

Publications 📖

  • Title: Valorization of vermicompost with bacterial fermented chicken feather hydrolysate for the yield improvement of tomato plant: A novel organic combination
    Authors: I Biswas, D Mitra, A Senapati, D Mitra, S Chattaraj, M Ali, G Basak
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 25

  • Title: Bioactive compounds as a potential inhibitor of colorectal cancer; an insilico study of Gallic acid and Pyrogallol
    Authors: D Mitra, A Dey, I Biswas, PK Das Mohapatra
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 23

  • Title: Recent advancement in metabiotics: a consortium with bioactive molecules after fermentation by probiotic bacteria with multidisciplinary application potential and future prospects
    Authors: I Biswas, PKD Mohapatra
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 21

  • Title: Contributions of protein microenvironment in tannase industrial applicability: An in-silico comparative study of pathogenic and non-pathogenic bacterial tannase
    Authors: I Biswas, D Mitra, AK Bandyopadhyay, PKD Mohapatra
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 17

  • Title: Structural and catalytic advancement of fungal tannase: A proteomic contribution in industrial applicability
    Authors: I Biswas, D Mitra, PKD Mohapatra
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 14

  • Title: Concomitant yield optimization of tannase and gallic acid by Bacillus licheniformis KBR6 through submerged fermentation: An industrial approach
    Authors: PKD Mohapatra, I Biswas, KC Mondal, BR Pati
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 12

  • Title: Application of egg shell with fortified vermicompost in Capsicum cultivation: a strategy in waste management
    Authors: I Biswas, D Mitra, D Mitra, S Chattaraj, A Senapati, A Chakraborty
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 10

  • Title: Paraburkholderia tropica PKI7 and Kosakonia arachidis PKI8: Two newly reported tannase producing bacteria isolated from forest soil and study of their tannase producing potential
    Authors: I Biswas, PKDAS Mohapatra
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 6

  • Title: Preparation of metabiotic curd and optimization of tannase and gallic acid production by probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum PKI15
    Authors: I Biswas, JP Soren, PKD Mohapatra
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 5

  • Title: Insilico sequence-structure based analysis of bacterial chromate reductase to unravel enzymatic specificity towards chromium pollution
    Authors: I Biswas, D Mitra
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 4

Conclusion 📊

Dr. Ishita Biswas has made significant strides in the field of botany and microbiology. Her dedication to research and education, coupled with numerous accolades and a strong publication record, highlights her passion for advancing scientific knowledge. She continues to inspire future generations through her teaching and research, leaving an indelible mark in her field.

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.