Sayed Jalal Moosavi | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Sayed Jalal Moosavi | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

University of Göttingen | Germany

Sayed Jalal Moosavi, is a passionate researcher specializing in forest genetics and conservation biology. He is currently pursuing his PhD at the University of Göttingen, Germany, with a focus on the conservation of endangered conifer species through population genomics. With deep roots in agronomy and biotechnology, Sayed brings a unique interdisciplinary perspective to his work, combining field-based ecological data with advanced genetic and bioinformatic analysis.

Professional profile👤

ORCID

Google Scholar

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Strong Academic Background & International Exposure

    • PhD from the University of Göttingen with a DAAD scholarship – a highly competitive and prestigious award.

    • Education spans Afghanistan, Iran, and Germany, showing a global academic journey.

    • Interdisciplinary expertise in forest genetics, conservation biology, and biotechnology.

  • Meaningful and High-Impact Research

    • Focus on endangered and threatened conifer species (Pinus gerardiana and Taxus baccata) highlights his contribution to conservation genomics.

    • Use of cutting-edge methods (SSR markers, population genomics, spatial analysis, bioinformatics).

    • The research has real-world applications in conservation management and biodiversity policy.

  • Published in Peer-Reviewed International Journals

    • First-author publications in European Journal of Forest Research, Plant Ecology and Evolution, and Ecology and Evolution indicate strong scientific output.

    • Participation in international conferences and symposia as a speaker enhances his visibility and academic impact.

  • Leadership, Outreach & Volunteering

    • Roles such as organizing committee member for international symposiums and reviewer for a journal demonstrate leadership and community involvement.

    • Collaboration with IUCN adds value to his profile with practical conservation impact.

    • Deputy director role at GWAESO shows experience beyond academia in NGO project management and proposal writing.

🎓 Education

Sayed’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Agronomy (2011) from the University of Kabul, where he developed a solid foundation in sustainable agriculture. He then earned his Master’s in Biotechnology (2016) from Imam Khomeini International University, Iran 🇮🇷, with a thesis on increasing vitamin E content in sesame via genetic transformation. Currently, he is a PhD candidate in Forest Genetics and Tree Breeding (2019–2024) at the University of Göttingen 🇩🇪. His dissertation explores genetic diversity in Pinus gerardiana (Afghanistan) and Taxus baccata (Germany) to develop conservation strategies using genomic tools.

💼 Experience

Sayed has gathered rich academic and professional experience across three countries. He served as a trainer in tissue culture and genetic engineering at the University of Kabul (2017–2019), training the next generation of Afghan scientists 🧪. Earlier, he was the Deputy Director at GWAESO (2012–2013), where he managed project budgets and wrote grant proposals. He began his professional journey as an intern at the Afghan Ministry of Agriculture (2011–2012), conducting soil and crop research for nationwide field trials.

🔬 Research Interests On Genetics

Sayed is particularly interested in population genomics, conservation genetics, forest biodiversity, and applied bioinformatics 🌐. His work involves understanding the effects of habitat fragmentation on gene flow in threatened tree species, identifying microsatellite markers, and analyzing spatial genetic structures using advanced tools like ArcGIS and R. His goal is to apply molecular research for tangible conservation outcomes across diverse ecological settings 🌍.

🏆 Awards & Scholarships

Sayed has received multiple competitive awards recognizing his academic potential and commitment to research. He is a DAAD Scholarship recipient (2019–2024) for his doctoral studies in Germany 🎓🇩🇪, and he earlier received the MSRT Scholarship from Iran’s Ministry of Science (2013–2016) for his Master’s education. He has also participated in several certified training programs on PCR, primer design, ecological geoprocessing, and research safety 🧾.

📚 Publications

Sayed Jalal Moosavi has published several peer-reviewed papers that contribute significantly to forest conservation genetics:

  1. Moosavi S.J., Budde K.B., Heurich M., Mueller M., Gailing O. (2024). Genetic variation of English yew (Taxus baccata L.) in the Bavarian Forest National Park, Germany. European Journal of Forest Research. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10342-024-01687-9 – Cited by 3 articles

  2. Moosavi S.J., Budde K.B., Mueller M., Gailing O. (2022). Genetic diversity and fine-scale spatial genetic structure of the near-threatened Pinus gerardiana in Gardiz, Afghanistan. Plant Ecology and Evolution, 155(3): 363–378. https://doi.org/10.5091/plecevo.95754 – Cited by 7 articles

  3. Moosavi S.J., Mueller M., Gailing O. (2025). Development of new chloroplast microsatellites for Pinus gerardiana and their application in genetic diversity analyses. Ecology and Evolution. https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.71185 – Cited by 1 article

✅ Conclusion

Through his work in genomics and conservation, Sayed Jalal Moosavi has made important strides toward understanding and protecting biodiversity in fragile ecosystems. His cross-continental research, multilingual skills, and dedication to scientific collaboration make him a valuable asset to the global scientific community 🌱🌏. His achievements and commitment position him as a worthy nominee for this award recognizing impactful research by emerging scholars.

Shivkant Sharma | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Shivkant Sharma | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Research Scientist | Ingenomics Private Limited | India

Dr. Shivkant Sharma is a dedicated Research Scientist at Ingenomics Private Limited, New Delhi, India. With a profound background in forensic science and genetics, his expertise spans forensic DNA analysis, population genetics, molecular biology, and quality control in laboratory settings. His contributions to forensic research and genetic diversity studies have been widely recognized.

Professional profile👤

Google Scholar

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Extensive Research Experience: Dr. Sharma has a robust background in forensic genetics, population studies, and molecular biology, with experience spanning roles as a Research Scientist, Application Scientist, and Forensic DNA Examiner.
  • Notable Publications: He has contributed to numerous peer-reviewed journals, showcasing a consistent research output in population genetics, forensic science, and Y-Chromosomal STR diversity.
  • Specialized Skills and Techniques: Hands-on expertise in DNA isolation, multiplex PCR, real-time PCR, next-generation sequencing (NGS), and statistical data analysis positions him as a technical authority in his field.
  • Quality Control and Regulatory Contributions: His role in securing ISO18385 certification demonstrates his commitment to maintaining high laboratory standards and ensuring regulatory compliance.
  • Collaboration and Data Contribution: Contributions to global databases like YHRD enhance the accessibility and impact of his research.
  • Educational Background and Certifications: His Ph.D. on Y-Chromosomal STR diversity in Indian Brahmin populations and multiple certifications (e.g., ISO/IEC 17025, AICEF DNA Proficiency Tests) solidify his academic and technical credentials.

🎓 Education

Dr. Sharma earned his Ph.D. in Forensic Science from Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana, with his thesis titled “A Cross-Sectional Study on Genetic Diversity of Y-Chromosomal STRs in Brahmin Population of Haryana and Rajasthan, India.” He holds an M.Sc. in Forensic Science from the same university, specializing in Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology, with a dissertation on poisoning cases in Himachal Pradesh. He also completed his B.Sc. in Medical Sciences from Maharshi Dayanand University.

💼 Experience

Dr. Sharma’s career includes roles such as:

  • Research Scientist (April 2024 – Present) at Ingenomics Private Limited, Delhi, where he has been instrumental in developing ISO18385 certification, performing forensic DNA analysis, and conducting population genetics studies.
  • Application Scientist (Oct. 2022 – March 2024) at BioZed Research and Testing Laboratories, Delhi, where he supported forensic laboratories in India, focusing on STR kits and collaborative population genetic studies.
  • Forensic DNA Examiner (2019 – 2021) at the DNA Division of DFS Junga, Shimla Hills, HP, where he assisted in analyzing crime scene evidence and worked in Disaster Victim Identification.

🔬 Research Interests On Genetics

Dr. Sharma’s research interests include:

  • Genetics
  • Genetic Genealogy
  • Y-Chromosome Studies
  • Population Genetics
  • Molecular Biology

🏆 Awards

  • Seventeenth Asian-Indo Pacific AICEF-GITAD DNA Proficiency Test (2023), AICEF, Spain
  • Sixteenth Asian-Indo Pacific AICEF-GITAD DNA Proficiency Test (2022), AICEF, Spain
  • ISO/IEC 17025: 2017 Certification, Quality Council of India (QCI)
  • UGC-NET Qualification for Assistant Professor (2014), Forensic Science

📖 Publications

  • Title: Contraceptive knowledge, attitude and practice among eligible couples of rural Haryana
    Authors: N Saluja, S Sharma, S Choudhary, D Gaur, S Pandey
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 87

  • Title: A study on knowledge and awareness of cervical cancer among females of rural and urban areas of Haryana, North India
    Authors: L Kadian, G Gulshan, S Sharma, I Kumari, C Yadav, S Nanda, R Yadav
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 43

  • Title: Dietary patterns, nutrition knowledge and lifestyle: associations with blood pressure in a sample of Australian adults (the Food BP study)
    Authors: S Khalesi, S Sharma, C Irwin, J Sun
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 36

  • Title: Antimicrobial susceptibility pattern & biotyping of Helicobacter pylori isolates from patients with peptic ulcer diseases
    Authors: S Sharma, KN Prasad, D Chamoli, A Ayyagari
    Year: 1995
    Citations: 29

  • Title: Tomato red toxicity: haematological and serological changes in the blood of Swiss albino mice, mus musculus
    Authors: S Sharma, RP Goyal, G Chakravarty, A Sharma
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 24

  • Title: Trend of complete hydatidiform mole
    Authors: K Thapa, M Shrestha, S Sharma, S Pandey
    Year: 2010
    Citations: 18

  • Title: Toxicological studies on effect of Apple Green-a permitted food colour, on swiss albino mice
    Authors: A Sharma, RP Goyal, G Chakravarty, S Sharma
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 15

  • Title: Orange red, a blend of permitted food colour induced haematological changes in Swiss albino mice, Mus musculus
    Authors: S Sharma, RP Goyal, G Chakravarty, A Sharma
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 15

  • Title: Aberrant promoter methylation of NOTCH1 and NOTCH3 and its association with cervical cancer risk factors in North Indian population
    Authors: LK Kadian, G Gulshan, P Ahuja, G Singhal, S Sharma, S Nanda, R Yadav
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 13

  • Title: Identification and genetic characterization of chikungunya virus from Aedes mosquito vector collected in the Lucknow district, North India
    Authors: N Nyari, HS Maan, S Sharma, SN Pandey, TN Dhole
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 13

📄 Conclusion

Dr. Shi Vkant Sharma is a distinguished researcher whose work in forensic science, population genetics, and molecular biology has significantly contributed to the understanding of genetic diversity in India. His expertise, combined with a passion for forensic innovation, continues to drive impactful research and development in the field.

Marlin Touma | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

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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.

Profile👤

Google Scholar

ORCID

Scopus

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.

Ana Bendejacq-Seychelles | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Ana Bendejacq-Seychelles | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Agricultural and Environmental Engineer in PhD thesis | Agroecology, INRAE, Institute Agro Dijon, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté | France

Ana Bendejacq-Seychelles is a dedicated agricultural and environmental engineer currently pursuing her PhD in Agroecology at UMR Agroecology, INRAE Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Dijon, France. Her research focuses on using multi-omic approaches to identify fungal metabolites with phytotoxic effects on the parasitic weed Phelipanche ramosa. Ana is passionate about agroecological solutions to tackle pressing agricultural and ecological challenges.

Profile

Orcid

Strengths for the Awards

  • Research Expertise and Focus:
    • Her current PhD research on identifying fungal metabolites toxic to the parasitic weed Phelipanche ramosa showcases advanced knowledge in multi-omics approaches, with significant implications for sustainable agriculture and parasitic weed management.
    • Published impactful papers in high-quality journals such as Toxins, Pest Management Science, and Applied Energy. These publications highlight her proficiency in untargeted metabolomics, environmental management, and sustainable energy in agricultural systems.
  • Diverse Academic Background:
    • A strong foundation in agroecology, agricultural engineering, and multidisciplinary sciences, evidenced by her Master’s degree and engineering curriculum.
    • Hands-on experience with innovative research topics such as the effect of photovoltaic panels on agricultural systems and pollinator pressures in socio-ecological frameworks.

Education 🎓

Ana’s academic journey began with an intensive two-year preparation in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Sciences at Sainte Geneviève High School in Versailles, France, where she graduated with honors. She went on to earn a Master’s degree in Agroecology at the University Bourgogne Franche-Comté (2021–2023), while simultaneously completing a prestigious civil service agricultural engineering program at Agro Dijon.

Experience 📓

Ana has accumulated diverse research experience:

  • PhD Research (2023–present): Investigating phytotoxic fungal metabolites for parasitic weed control.
  • Research Internship (2023): Developed lab protocols to study fungal metabolites affecting Phelipanche ramosa.
  • Environmental Tool Development (2022–2023): Collaborated on a project to evaluate pressures on pollinators and create a dialogue tool for scientists and policymakers.
  • Solar Agriculture Research (2022): Explored plant growth under photovoltaic panels at the German Aerospace Center.
  • Educational Projects (2021–2022): Produced a teaching aid on precision agriculture and agroecology.

Research Interests On Genetics🔬

Ana’s primary research interests lie at the intersection of ecology, agriculture, and environmental science. She specializes in exploring the potential of fungal metabolites as natural herbicides, sustainable agricultural practices, and the integration of technology like photovoltaic systems in agroecology.

Awards 🏆

Ana’s academic and extracurricular excellence has been recognized through her participation in prestigious events, including:

  • Chemistry Olympiads (2017, 2019)
  • General Mathematics Competition (2018)
  • Biarritz International Dance Workshop
    She was also selected for the AnaEE France 2024 Summer School on machine learning ecology and presented her research at the 17th World Congress of Parasitic Plants in Japan (2024).

Publications 📚

  • “Image Analysis and Untargeted Metabolomics Reveal Potential Phytotoxins from Fusarium venenatum Against Major Parasitic Weed Phelipanche ramosa”
    • Authors: Ana Bendejacq Seychelles, Lisa Martinez, Anaïs Corréard, Jean Chrisologue Totozafy, Christian Steinberg, Jean-Bernard Pouvreau, Carole Reibel, Grégory Mouille, Samuel Mondy, Lucie Poulin, et al.
    • Publication Year: 2024 (December 10).
    • Citations: None yet, as it was recently published.
    • DOI: 10.3390/toxins16120531.
  • “Combination of transcriptomics and metabolomics to characterize and identify fungal metabolites phytotoxic to Phelipanche ramosa, a parasitic plant of crops”
    • Author: Ana Bendejacq Seychelles.
    • Publication Year: 2023 (November 28).
    • Citations: Not currently cited.
  • “Phytotoxic fungal secondary metabolites as herbicides”
    • Authors: Ana Bendejacq Seychelles, Stéphanie Gibot-Leclerc, Jean-Philippe Guillemin, Gregory Mouille, Christian Steinberg.
    • Publication Year: 2023 (October 4).
    • Citations: Available but unspecified.
    • DOI: 10.1002/ps.7813.

 

Conclusion 🌟

Ana Bendejacq-Seychelles embodies a blend of scientific rigor and passion for sustainability. With her diverse expertise in agroecology, research, and technology, she is poised to make significant contributions to the agricultural and environmental sectors.