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.

Professional Profile

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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.

Yang Li | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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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

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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.