Monique lacroix – Microbiology- Best Scholar Award

Monique lacroix – Microbiology- Best Scholar Award

Prof. Monique lacroix  distinguished academic and researcher in the field Microbiology.

 

🌐 Professional Profile

Educations📚📚📚

Dr. Monique Lacroix received her Doctorate in Nutrition from Université Laval in November 1986, under the supervision of Jean Amiot, after completing her studies from September 1982 to November 1986. In January 1983, she earned a Diploma in Nutrition Physiology from the Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, supervised by Alain Rérat until October 1983. She also holds a Master’s degree with a thesis in Food Science and Technology from Université Laval, completed in December 1982, again under the guidance of Jean Amiot from September 1980 to December 1982. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Food Science and Technology from Université Laval, completed in May 1980, with her studies spanning from September 1976 to May 1980.

Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Lacroix has received numerous accolades. In May 2021, she was a finalist at the 30th Innovation Gala Award hosted by the Association for Research Development and Innovation (ADRIQ), where she received an Innovation Award. In March 2021, she was nominated as a Fellow of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), recognizing her exceptional achievements and contributions to food science research. From November 2020 to November 2024, she was recognized among the world’s top 2% scientists based on Stanford University’s rankings, a testament to her influential research and academic excellence. In May 2020, Dr. Lacroix was honored with the Grand Prix des Diplômées de l’Université Laval, receiving the title of Grande Diplômée de l’Université Laval, acknowledging her significant contributions and outstanding accomplishments as an alumna of the university.

 

Research Specializations:

Her research specializations encompass a diverse array of topics within the field of biotechnology and food science. She focuses on the effects of irradiation on various biological materials, particularly probiotic bacteria and proteins, to enhance their functionality and stability. Her work also delves into the study of biopolymers and their applications, especially in the context of crosslinking, which is crucial for improving the properties of these materials. Additionally, she is deeply engaged in the development of nutraceutical products, leveraging her expertise to create innovative health-promoting solutions. Her research on radioresistance explores the mechanisms that enable certain organisms to withstand radiation, providing insights that could have significant implications for food preservation and safety. Furthermore, she investigates polysaccharides and natural antimicrobials, aiming to harness their potential as bio-based preservatives and therapeutic agents. Through her comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach, she contributes to advancing our understanding and application of these critical areas in science and technology.

She has built a distinguished career spanning over four decades, primarily at the INRS – Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie in Laval, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique. Beginning as a Research Assistant at Université Laval, where she conducted pivotal studies in nutrition, she swiftly advanced through roles including Teaching Assistant and, later, as a part-time Teacher at Université de Montréal, specializing in Nutrition and Food Science. Her tenure as Assistant, Associate, and subsequently Full Professor at INRS has been marked by extensive contributions to Food Science and Microbiology, with a focus on natural polymers, probiotic bacteria, and nutraceutical products. Her pioneering research in biopolymers and the development of novel nutraceuticals underscores her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and application in these critical fields. Her leadership as a Full Professor continues to shape the future of biotechnological research, emphasizing innovation and sustainable solutions in food science and microbiology.

Research Funding History:

She has a robust history of securing research funding, leading multiple projects aimed at enhancing food safety and packaging innovation. Notably, her ongoing endeavors include evaluating the biological effects of essential oils supported by the Foundation Armand-Frappier, a study on flexible packaging with barrier properties funded competitively by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), and the development of biobased biodegradable bioactive food packaging, also funded by NSERC. Her leadership extends to projects focused on natural antimicrobial compounds, radioresistance and radiosensitization of microorganisms, and various initiatives enhancing food quality and safety through innovative formulations and packaging solutions, all backed by significant competitive funding from industry partnerships and governmental bodies

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

Sahar Essa -Virology – Excellence in Research

Dr. Sahar Essa  distinguished academic and researcher in the field  Biological Networks (Virology, Immunology, Cytokines).  In her academic career, she has held various positions at Kuwait University, beginning as a Teaching Assistant in the Faculty of Medicine from 1992 until 2012, when she progressed to the role of Assistant Professor, a position she continues to hold to date.

Her professional journey also includes experiences beyond Kuwait. She served as a Research Assistant at the Department of Pathology in McGill University, Canada, from 1990 to 1991, contributing to the research efforts in her field. Prior to her international stint, she worked as an Academic Assistant in the Department of Microbiology at the Faculty of Medicine in Kuwait from 1986 to 1989, laying the groundwork for her future academic endeavors. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a commitment to both academic excellence and research advancement in the field of biological sciences.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

She holds a Ph.D. in Medical Virology from Warwick University, United Kingdom, which she obtained in 2001. Prior to that, she completed her Master of Science in Medical Microbiology at the Faculty of Medicine, Kuwait University, in 1989. Her academic journey commenced with a Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology from Kuwait University in 1985. Throughout her educational endeavors, she has specialized in various fields within Biological Sciences, establishing a strong foundation in medical research and microbiology.

RESEARCH EXPERIENCE

As a Principal Investigator, she has spearheaded several research projects, each aimed at advancing knowledge in the field of virology and immunology. One such project focused on sequencing Human Polyomaviruses WU from patients with Lower Respiratory Tract Infection in Kuwait. This endeavor, funded by Kuwait University, saw fruitful results with one full-length paper published in Medical Principles and Practice in 2017, showcasing the significance of her findings.

Another notable project delved into the immunophenotyping of peripheral blood cells in response to infection with major HCV genotypes before, during, and after treatment. With funding support from Kuwait University, this research effort yielded a comprehensive paper published in Medical Principles and Practice in 2021, shedding light on the modulation of immune cell subsets by Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) and antiviral therapy.

Additionally, she led investigations into the influence of neutrophils on the production of cytokines associated with different Th cell subsets in chronic HCV-infected patients. This study, funded by Kuwait University, resulted in a significant publication in Pathogens in 2021, highlighting the modulation of cytokine production in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and neutrophils by HCV infection.

Furthermore, she contributed to understanding the influence of SARS-COV-2 on cytokine production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells and neutrophils in COVID-19 patients. Supported by KFAS, this research, completed in 2021, added valuable insights into the cytokine responses in individuals affected by the COVID-19 virus. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to research excellence, making significant contributions to the scientific community’s understanding of viral infections and immune responses.

Number of citations

  • Number of citations:
    • Total 396
    • Previous 5 years (2017-2022) 138
  • h-index
    • Total 13
    • Previous 5 years (2017-2022) 8
  • i10- index
    • Total 14
    • Previous 5 years (2017-2022) 6

CONFERENCES:

As a member of various organizing committees, she has been instrumental in orchestrating numerous virology symposiums aimed at updating professionals on modern trends, recent advances, and updates in clinical virology. From 2002 to 2013, she contributed to organizing symposiums such as “Modern Trends in Clinical Virology,” “Update in Clinical Virology,” and “Recent Advances in Clinical Virology” at the AbdulRazak Lecture Theater, Health Science Center, fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration in the field.

Furthermore, her expertise has been sought after globally, with invitations to speak at prestigious conferences and symposiums. She has addressed audiences on a wide range of topics related to clinical virology, including presentations on cytomegalovirus infections, persistent viral infections, and the influence of various viruses on immune responses. Notably, she has participated in international conferences such as the BIT’s 1st World Congress of Viruses and Infections in South Korea, the 3rd Global Virology Congress & Expo in Spain, and the 10th International Virology Summit in Austria, where she shared her insights and research findings with fellow experts in the field.

Moreover, she has actively contributed to conferences with presentations, showcasing her research on topics such as the role of respiratory syncytial virus in respiratory diseases and the diagnosis and management of viral infections in transplant recipients. Her presence and contributions at these events have underscored her dedication to advancing the understanding and management of viral infections through research, collaboration, and knowledge dissemination.

Continuous Professional Development (Courses and Workshops)

She has demonstrated a commitment to continuous professional development through her participation in various courses and workshops spanning diverse topics in the field of medical science. From acquiring diplomas in workshops on laboratory techniques to enhancing teaching and learning methodologies, she has continuously upgraded her skills and knowledge. Her attendance at workshops focusing on clinical teaching, infectious diseases, laboratory management, and infection control underscores her dedication to staying updated with the latest advancements in her field. Furthermore, her engagement in workshops on radiation protection, fire safety, and updates on infection control highlights her commitment to maintaining a safe and secure working environment. Additionally, her participation in workshops on bioinformatics, genomics, and scientific writing reflects her enthusiasm for exploring emerging areas of research and honing her skills in data analysis and communication. Through her proactive approach to professional development, she ensures her expertise remains current and relevant in the ever-evolving landscape of medical science.

She has been honored with several prestigious awards throughout her career, recognizing her outstanding achievements and contributions to the field of medical science. In 1985, she was awarded a gold medal for achieving the highest total marks in her B.Sc. degree from the Faculty of Allied Health at Kuwait University, reflecting her academic excellence and dedication to her studies. Her research endeavors have also been recognized, with awards such as the Best Clinical Sciences Research at the 11th Annual Health Sciences Center Poster Conference in April 2006, highlighting the quality and significance of her contributions to clinical research. Additionally, she received the Best Poster Award at the 10th International Virology Summit in Vienna, Austria, in July 2018, and another Best Poster Award at the International Conference on Infectious and Rare Diseases in Amsterdam, Netherlands, in August 2019, further affirming the impact and recognition of her research at the international level. These honors underscore her commitment to excellence and innovation in the field of medical virology.

 

Publications

 

 

 

 

Panagiotis Karanis – Biomedical Research – Best Researcher Award

Panagiotis Karanis – Biomedical Research

Dr. Panagiotis karanis  distinguished academic and researcher in the field Biomedical research, infectious diseases, climate changes.  Professor Karanis is a resourceful and dedicated professor with an impressive academic background,
excellent publication record and significant teaching experiences in the fields of Emerging Infectious
Parasitic and Tropical Diseases and Human Anatomy. Possesses excellent interpersonal and liaison skills
with the ability to build and maintain positive working relationships. Possesses mature administrative and
managerial skills and solid experience in science policy and public health. Enjoys worldwide collaborating
in a productive and successful team and thrives in challenging environments. He was 1000 Talent Plan
Expert (2014-2017) in Qinghai, China.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations: 📚🎓

Professor Dr. Panagiotis Karanis has held various esteemed positions in the field of anatomy and biomedicine, showcasing an extensive and distinguished career spanning several decades. From 2019 to the present, he serves as a Professor of Anatomy and the Coordinator of the Unit of Anatomy & Morphology at the Medical School, University of Nicosia, Nicosia, Cyprus. His contributions extend globally, as he has been an international advisor, consultant, and visiting professor at numerous universities.

During the period from 2014 to 2018, Professor Karanis held the position of Professor and Director of the Centre of Biomedicine and Infectious Diseases at the State Key Laboratory for Plateau Ecology and Agriculture at Qinghai University in Xining, China. His expertise was recognized internationally, as he was selected as a Foreign Expert in the 1000 Talent Plan, Recruitment Program of Foreign Experts (RPFE) for non-ethnic Chinese experts in China.

Earlier in his career, from 2009 to the present, Professor Karanis made significant contributions as a Professor of Anatomy at the Medical School, University of Cologne, Germany. Prior to this, he served as an Associate Professor and later as a Full Professor at the National Research Centre for Protozoan Diseases (NRCPD) in Japan from 2006 to 2007.

The trajectory of Professor Karanis’s career is marked by academic achievements. In 1999, he received Venia legendi in Parasitology (PD Dr.) and completed his Habilitation in Clinical-Theoretical Medicine at the Medical Faculty, University of Bonn, Germany. His academic journey began with a PhD in Parasitology, focusing on ‘UV-Disinfection of Protozoan Parasites’ at the University of Bonn in 1992. Earlier, in 1987, he earned a Diploma in Biology from the University of Bochum, Germany.

Professor Karanis’s educational background is diverse, including studies in Biology at the Universities of Bielefeld, Düsseldorf, and Bochum from 1980 to 1986. He also pursued complementary studies of Medicine at the Universities of Bochum and Cologne, completing the pre-clinical medical curriculum. His commitment to academia and research has made him a respected figure in the international scientific community, contributing significantly to the fields of anatomy, biomedicine, and parasitology.

Research Interests: 🧬🔬

Biomedical research, infectious diseases, climate changes,Applications of Network Science and Graph Analytics in Social, Biological, and Technological Networks

Awards and Achievements: 🏆👏

  •  Prof. Karanis is included on the annual list of 100,000 top scientists worldwide and, correspondingly, in
    the top 2 per cent of scientists in their field, according to a team of researchers at Stanford University in
    the USA. The updated 2020 list is based on a range of citation metrics that provides standardized data
    across those fields and subfields, in arriving at the (2019) single year impact result of more than 8,000,000
    scientists worldwide.
  • Gained worldwide administrative and managerial skills and experiences in science policy and public
    health. Successfully established 5 Laboratories / Institutions in Bonn / Germany (Waterborne and Vectorborne
    Parasitic Diseases), Thessaloniki / Greece (Leishmania and Sandflies), Cologne / Germany (Medical and
    Molecular Parasitology), Obihiro / Japan (Unit for Diseases Control and Genetics), Xining / China (Centre
    of Biomedicine and Infectious Diseases; the laboratory was promoted from the Chinese Government toState Key Laboratory of the Qinghai Province in China, 2016). The laboratories in Germany, Japan and
    China achieved an international reputation
  • Developed worldwide effective cooperations between many countries, in particular betweenEuropean
    and Asian countries
  •  Consultant at Qatar National Research Foundation and Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
  • Academic program review for the Master of Science in Biomedical Science, College of Health
    Sciences at Qatar University, Doha, Qatar, September 2018
  • Consultant” at Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
  • Nominated as “Advisory Board Member” of the “Centre of Excellence for Medical Research and
    Innovative Products (CEMRIP)” in Thailand.
  • Nominated “National Distinguished Expert” and “State Specially Recruited Expert” of China
  • Selected in 1000 Talent Plan, the Recruitment Program of Foreign Experts (RPFE) for non-ethnic Chinese
    experts, China, 2014, leading into ongoing innovative and promising collaborations with China
  • Invitation for Short Term – Fellowship – Program for Malaria Research in Japan by JSPS (Japanese
    Society of Promotion of Science), 12th January – 11th March 2014

Career Summary 

Dr. Panagiotis Karanis is a distinguished parasitologist with a wealth of expertise and a prolific career spanning several prestigious institutions across the globe. Serving as a Guest Professor at the University of Padova in Italy during 2019 and 2020, as well as a Consultant at the College of Public Health in Qatar in 2018, he contributed significantly to the field of parasitology. Dr. Karanis has been a Consultant at Walailak University in Thailand since 2017, where he has provided guidance and international supervision for PhD students.

His academic endeavors include roles as an Invited Professor at the University of Alexandroupolis and the University of Ioannina in Greece, where he delivered lectures on infectious diseases to both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Notably, from 2014 to 2018, Dr. Karanis held the position of Professor and Director of the Centre of Biomedicine and Infectious Diseases at Qinghai University in China.

As a Foreign Expert in the 1000 Talent Plan Recruitment Program, he played a pivotal role in elevating the laboratory to the State Key Laboratory for Plateau Ecology and Agriculture of the Qinghai Province. Dr. Karanis’s contributions extended to advising the Chinese government on research ideas, particularly in waterborne and vectorborne diseases, and his efforts in developing Cryptosporidium culture assays for drug testing garnered recognition and funding from prestigious institutions such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. His comprehensive involvement in academia, research, and international collaborations underscores his commitment to advancing the field of parasitology and infectious diseases.

 

📚Top Noted Publication