Marco A. Saraiva – Biophysics – Best Researcher Award

Marco A. Saraiva – Biophysics – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Marco A. Saraiva distinguished academic and researcher in the field Biophysics. 

🌐 Professional Profile

Educations📚📚📚

He holds a Degree in Chemistry from the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon, which he completed in 2000 with a mark of 16/20. In 2008, he earned a PhD in Analytical Chemistry from the same institution

Work Experience

He has a diverse and extensive professional experience in the field of chemistry. In 1999/2000, he undertook his final year research project in reaction kinetics and mechanistics at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon, under the supervision of Professor Lídia Miguel Pinho Chumbinho de Albuquerque and Professor Maria Luísa Calisto de Jesus Moita, earning a mark of 19/20. During this time, he gained experience in conductimetry and multiparametric analysis. In 2001/2002, he conducted a research project on the reactivity of DNA codified amino acids analogues at the School of Sciences, University of Minho, Portugal, supervised by Professor Hernâni Maia, and gained expertise in reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). From 2003 to 2008, he pursued a PhD in Analytical Chemistry, focusing on mass spectrometry applied to the study of the Maillard reaction at the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon, under the supervision of Professor Maria Helena Florêncio and co-supervision of Professor Carlos Borges. He developed skills in electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) and hyphenated techniques such as LC-MS and GC-MS. In 2008/2009, he conducted post-doctoral studies in Molecular Biophysics at the Department of Chemistry, Cambridge University, UK, under the supervision of Dr. Sophie E. Jackson, where he worked with ESI-MS (Q-TOF), absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism, isothermal titration calorimetry, capillary electrophoresis, cell culture, and protein purification systems. From 2011 to 2016, he engaged in post-doctoral studies in photochemistry at the Center for Structural Chemistry, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, focusing on the structural and dynamic characterization of early stages in alpha-synuclein fibrillation in the presence of mannosylglycerate, under the supervision of Professor António L. Maçanita

Awards and Honours

He has received numerous grants and honors throughout his career. In 2000, he was awarded the Curricular grant PRODEP III/Measure 3/Action 3.2 from the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon, Portugal, for a duration of three months. He then received a PhD grant from the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), Portugal, under the reference SFRH/BD/3162/2000. Following his PhD, he was granted a post-doctoral fellowship by the FCT under the reference SFRH/BPD/37016/2007. Later, he received another post-doctoral grant from the Mass Spectrometry National Network (RNEM), Portugal, with the reference RNEM/DGH/022125 in 2018. His professional recognition includes an invitation to become a member of the Royal Society of Medicine (United Kingdom) in 2022. In 2023, he was selected for the “International Young Scientist Awards” under the category of “Best Researcher Award” and was also nominated for Full Membership in Sigma Xi (USA).

Research Interests

His research interests are focused on the study of reaction processes in solution, particularly through the identification, characterization, and monitoring of species formed in physiologically relevant reaction mixtures. He primarily investigates the reaction of specific amine targets with α-dicarbonyls, a key aspect of the Maillard reaction. Additionally, he is interested in probing the fundamentals of electrospray ionization (ESI) mechanisms, exploring the fundamental aspects of ESI mass spectrometric techniques. He is also gaining interests in molecular biophysics, particularly in the study of molecular chaperone systems and α-synuclein, utilizing advanced spectroscopic and spectrometric techniques.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

Giorgia Modenini – Biological Networks – Young Scientist Award

Giorgia Modenini – Biological Networks – Young Scientist Award

Dr. Giorgia Modenini distinguished academic and researcher in the field Biological Networks.

🌐 Professional Profile

Educations📚📚📚

She has been deeply engaged in academic pursuits since 2014,  commencing with her Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Sciences from the University of Bologna, Italy, where she attained a commendable grade of 106/110. This laid the foundation for her subsequent academic journey. Building upon her undergraduate studies, she pursued a Master of Science in Biodiversity and Evolution at the same institution, achieving the highest distinction of 110/110 cum laude, indicative of her exceptional aptitude and dedication. Undeterred by challenges, she continued to excel in her academic endeavors and embarked on a PhD course in Environment, Earth, and Life Sciences at the University of Bologna. Spanning from 2020 to the present, this doctoral program underscores her commitment to advancing knowledge and contributing to the fields of biological, geological, and environmental sciences. Throughout her academic trajectory, she has demonstrated a fervent passion for her chosen disciplines and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Awards

She has actively contributed to the academic community through various engagements and leadership roles in conferences focused on the role of transposable elements in human evolution and diseases. Notably, she organized and co-chaired the “Transposable Elements in Human Brain Evolution and Diseases” virtual conferences in December 2021 and December 2022, featuring esteemed speakers such as Marie Jönnson, Jose Luis Garcia-Perez, Fabio Macciardi, Cedric Feschotte, Johan Jakobsson, and Molly Gale Hammell. Her dedication to advancing knowledge in this field is further exemplified by her role as the organizer and co-chair of the “Transposable Elements in Human Evolution and Diseases” virtual conference in February 2024, featuring confirmed invited speakers Anna Sophie Fiston-Lavier and Marco Trizzino. Moreover, her outstanding contributions were recognized with the “Best Poster Award” at the XXV Congress of the Italian Anthropological Association, presented by the Italian Primatologists Association, for her poster titled “Exploring signatures of adaptive introgression on chromosome 22 in worldwide human populations,” a fitting tribute to the memory of Judith Masters and Fabien Génin. Through these endeavors, she continues to foster collaboration and facilitate discussions at the forefront of scientific research.

Academic experience

She has been actively involved in various academic activities spanning several years, showcasing her commitment to advancing knowledge in her field. From April to September 2019, she undertook an internship at the Molecular Anthropology Lab at the University of Bologna, Italy. Here, she delved into the intricate relationships between non-LTR retrotransposons and schizophrenia in both modern and ancient human populations. This experience provided her with invaluable insights into the intersection of genetics and mental health. Subsequently, in February to May 2023, she embarked on an international internship at the Globe Institute, Lundbeck Foundation, Copenhagen, Denmark. During this period abroad, she immersed herself in the project titled “Investigating human evolution through the lens of retrotransposons,” further expanding her understanding of evolutionary genetics. Currently, since November 2020, she has been engaged as a PhD student at the Molecular Anthropology Lab, University of Bologna, Italy. Her doctoral research focuses on studying retrotransposition events and DNA methylation in the evolution of the human brain, a testament to her continued dedication to unraveling the complexities of human evolution and genetics.

Seminars and thesis

She has been actively involved in supervising and supporting research projects and academic activities related to transposable elements and genetic variability. Under her guidance as a supervisor, Giacomo Mercuri presented his thesis titled “Polymorphic transposable element insertions provide new insights into North-Eastern Italian isolates’ genetic variability” for the LM Biodiversità ed Evoluzione program. Similarly, Stefano Puleo explored the signatures of adaptive introgression on chromosome 22 in worldwide human populations for his thesis under her supervision. Additionally, she has contributed to the academic community by delivering lessons on “Transposable Elements as drivers of genome evolution” and “Transposable Elements as drivers of evolution” for the course “Genetica di popolazione ed evoluzione molecolare,” showcasing her expertise in the field. Furthermore, she supervised Francesco Magni’s thesis, which focused on transposable elements variability in ancient and modern human samples, further enriching the understanding of genetic dynamics. Through these mentorship roles and academic contributions, she continues to advance knowledge and foster intellectual growth in the field of biodiversity and evolution.

📝🔬Publications📝

 

 

 

Thomas Liehr – Biological Networks Award – Best Researcher Award

Thomas Liehr – Biological Networks Award – Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Thomas Liehr distinguished academic and researcher in the field Biological Networks. The Lab of Molecular Cytogenetics at the Institut für Humangenetik in Jena pursues various research lines, all linked by a common interest in chromosome structure and evolution. His primary focus lies within the realm of clinical genetic research, specifically in characterizing acquired and inherited chromosomal aberrations to comprehend the underlying biological mechanisms behind such deviations from the norm. Ongoing projects delve into topics such as small supernumerary marker chromosomes, chromosomal heteromorphisms, uniparental disomy, chromosomal breakpoints, and multicolor-FISH techniques. In the field of leukemia research, he contributes to identifying cryptic chromosomal aberrations associated with the disease. Additionally, the lab investigates chromosomal evolution through collaborations with other research groups studying diverse species such as fish (in Brazil), turtles (in Italy), and rodents (in Russia). In addition to employing multicolor fluorescence in situ hybridization techniques, he utilizes methods like immunohistochemistry, microsatellite analysis, array-CGH, and next-generation sequencing to further his research objectives

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

He holds various academic positions across different institutions and countries, showcasing his expertise and contributions to the field of medicine and biology. Since November 7, 2016, he has served as a Visiting Professor of Medicine at the University of Belgrade School of Medicine in Belgrade, RS. Furthermore, he has been awarded an honorary Doctorate in Biology (Dr. h.c.) from Yerevan State University in Armenia, a recognition he has held since June 25, 2014. Concurrently, he holds the position of Invited Professor of Biology at Yerevan State University since May 1, 2013, further emphasizing his international engagement in academia. In addition to his roles in teaching and research, he obtained European registered Clinical Laboratory Geneticists (ErCLG) certification in Human Genetics from Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena in Thüringen, Germany, a qualification he held from January 1, 2009, until April 1, 2015. Through these positions and qualifications, he contributes significantly to the advancement of knowledge and education in the fields of medicine and biology.

Work experiences

He has had a distinguished career trajectory marked by significant contributions to the field of human genetics. Beginning as a scientific coworker at the Institute of Human Genetics Erlangen under the guidance of Prof. Dr. E. Gebhart from 1991 to 1998, he embarked on a path of research and academic engagement. During his tenure, he was honored as a Fellow of the Herbert Quandt Stiftung der VARTA-AG from 1995 to 1997, further solidifying his commitment to advancing genetic knowledge. Since 1998, he has continued his research as a scientific coworker at the Institute of Human Genetics Jena, focusing on Molecular Cytogenetics. Notably, he has held the role of Coordinator of the Permanent Working Group Marker Chromosomes of the European Cytogenetic Association (ECA) since 2007, demonstrating his leadership in the field. Additionally, he served as Co-Editor of the journal Molecular Cytogenetics from 2007 to 2022, contributing to scholarly discourse and dissemination of research findings. Since September 2010, he has led the national quality control efforts for molecular cytogenetics as the head of the national quality control for molecular cytogenetics under the BVDH. His international engagements include serving as a member of the DAAD-review board in Brazil from 2010 to 2017 and chairing the scientist division of the European Board of Medical Genetics (ESHG) since 2012. Moreover, he has been an Invited Professor at Yerevan State University, Armenia, since May 2013, and was honored with a Doctorate h.c. and golden medal from the same institution in September 2014, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the field. He achieved European registered Clinical Laboratory Geneticist (ErCLG) certification in July 2015, further affirming his expertise and qualifications in the field of genetics. Additionally, he has served on the Advisory Board of the Armenian Association of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Immunology since 2012, further demonstrating his commitment to international collaboration and advancement in genetics research and education.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

 

Rozita Nasiri – Biological Networks – Women Researcher Award

Dr. Rozita Nasiri distinguished academic and researcher in the field Biological Networks.  She possesses extensive expertise across a wide array of disciplines within biotechnology and biomedical research. Her skills encompass conducting in vitro studies, where she is adept at working with both normal and cancer cells in tissue culture laboratories, proficiently executing various in vitro tests. Additionally, she holds substantial experience in in vivo studies, including working with animal models such as mice and rats to establish conditions like cancer, diabetes, Alzheimer’s, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and lead contamination, among others. Her proficiency extends to pharmacology and toxicology, as well as treatment studies.🧬🔗

Furthermore, she is highly skilled in molecular analysis techniques, including PCR, RT-PCR, SDS page, gel electrophoresis, gel extraction, plasmid extraction, dialysis, and genomic and proteomic extraction and isolation. She is also capable of gene and protein sequencing and determining DNA and protein concentrations. Her expertise extends to conducting hematology, immunology, and pathology tests, including biocompatibility studies.🧬

 

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

She completed her Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Biology (Cell and Molecular Biology) from Islamic Azad University (I.R.IRAN) from 2002 to 2006. Following that, she pursued her Master of Science in Biotechnology at UTM (Universiti Technologi Malaysia) from 2009 to 2011, where her research focused on molecular identification of biodegradation related genes from dye-degrading microbes. Subsequently, she earned her PhD in Bioprocess Engineering from the Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Department of Bioprocess Engineering, spanning from 2012 to 2017. Her doctoral thesis, titled “Synthesis and Characterization of SPIONs-Bromelain-Folic acid on Folic Acid Receptor Positive Cancer Model,” demonstrated her expertise in the synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials for targeted cancer therapy. Throughout her academic journey, she has consistently excelled, maintaining a CGPA of 4 out of 4 for her PhD and 3.62 out of 4 for her Master’s degree.

She has received several notable awards and recognitions for her outstanding contributions to the field of biotechnology and bioprocess engineering. In 2013, she was honored with the Best Paper Award at IGCESH for her research on identifying novel bacterial species capable of degrading Dalapon using 16S rRNA genomic analysis. Additionally, she received the Best New Idea Award from Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, showcasing her innovative thinking and problem-solving skills. Furthermore, her academic excellence was acknowledged through the receipt of an International Doctoral Fellowship from the School of Graduate Studies at UTM, underscoring her dedication to advancing knowledge in her field through research and scholarly endeavors.

Books📚📚📚

1. 2019 “Genetic, Molecular Identification and Bioinformatics Analysis of Carcinogenic Azo Dyes’
Biodegradation related Genes from Citrobacter freundii A1, Enterococcus casseliflavus C1, Enterobacter
cloacae L17 and Candida tropicalis RETL-Cr1 Microorganisms,” Ariyadanesh Press, Iran.
2. 2019 “Synthesis, Characterization and Cancer Therapy Application of Novel Targeted SPIONsBromelainFolic acid Nano-Medicine on FAR+ Cancer Model”, Ariyadanesh Press, Iran.

WORK EXPERIENCE 🧬🔗

She has accumulated a diverse range of professional experiences and roles throughout her career. Initially, she worked as a Medical Laboratory Assistant at Tabatabaei Medical Diagnostic Laboratory and later at Dr. Ghaziasgar Medical Laboratory from 2006 to 2008, where she performed various laboratory tests. Transitioning into academia, she assumed the position of a University Lecturer and Laboratory Instructor at Islamic Azad University, Khorasgan Branch, starting in 2019. In this role, she teaches cell culture techniques, animal handling, and molecular laboratory skills. Simultaneously, she serves as a University Lecturer in English Literature, delivering English courses to undergraduate, master, and PhD students.

Expanding her academic endeavors, she also holds positions as a University Lecturer in Molecular Cell Biology and Biostatistics at the University of Isfahan since 2021, where she imparts knowledge on cell biology, molecular science, and biostatistics. Furthermore, she engages in research activities at the Royan Institute, focusing on the development of inactivated vaccines and antidiarrheal IgY polyclonal antibodies paste products.

Moreover, she plays a significant role as a Co-Supervisor for various Master and PhD projects, supervising research in areas such as nanotechnology, exercise physiology, cancer prevention, and drug development. Additionally, she has conducted research at the Royan Institute and the Dr. Mohammad Shafie Special Center of New Science and Technologies, leading projects focused on vaccine development and R&D in various scientific domains. Her contributions to both academia and research demonstrate her multidisciplinary expertise and commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and innovation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tianzhu Guan- Biological Networks – Young Scientist Award

Tianzhu Guan- Biological Networks

Dr. Tianzhu Guan distinguished academic and researcher in the field Biological Network.  Tianzhu Guan a recipient of the 2020 Excellent PhD in the “Green and Golden Phoenix Plan” in Yangzhou City, specializes in the development of nutritional foods with dual applications in medicine and nutrition. His expertise lies at the intersection of cutting-edge scientific disciplines, where he seamlessly integrates Network Science and Graph Analytics into his research. Driven by a passion for advancing food safety, he has a keen focus on the recognition and detection of food hazard factors.

In his groundbreaking work , Tianzhu Guan employs a multifaceted approach, combining molecular techniques such as Molecular Docking, Molecular Dynamic Simulation, and Quantum Chemical Calculation. These methodologies enable him to delve into the intricate molecular interactions within food components, paving the way for innovative solutions in the development of nutritionally enriched foods.

Beyond his computational prowess, He is well-versed in experimental techniques, including Molecular Biology, Western-Blot, and SDS-Page. This dual proficiency empowers him to bridge the gap between theoretical predictions and practical applications, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the complex relationships between food and medicine.

He is a visionary researcher who not only excels in the theoretical realms of his field but also possesses the practical skills necessary for translating his findings into tangible advancements. His holistic approach to scientific inquiry positions him as a trailblazer in the realm of nutrition and food safety.

Education

He, having pursued a dedicated academic journey, holds a comprehensive educational background in Food Science and Engineering. His academic pursuits commenced with a Bachelor’s degree in Grain Engineering from Jilin Agricultural University, spanning from September 2010 to July 2014. Building upon this foundation, he advanced to earn a Master’s degree in Food Science and Engineering at Jilin University, completing the program from September 2014 to July 2016. His scholarly pursuits culminated in a PhD in Food Science and Engineering from Jilin University, where he engaged in advanced research and academic exploration from September 2016 to October 2019. This extensive and progressively specialized education equips him with a solid foundation and expertise in the intricacies of food science and engineering.

Professional Profiles:

Research Awards

He has garnered significant recognition for his impactful contributions to the field, exemplified by the prestigious Jilin Province Science and Technology Awards. In 2022, he received the second prize in the Natural Science category for his outstanding work on the Mechanism Study of Small Molecule Disruptors in Regulating Estrogen Receptors, demonstrating a keen understanding of the intricate molecular processes involved. Prior to this achievement, in 2020, he secured another second prize in the Natural Science category for his research titled Evaluation of endocrine disrupting effects and residual detection of typical persistent organic pollutants based on receptor recognition. His consistent success in earning accolades underscores his expertise and dedication to advancing scientific knowledge in the domain of endocrine disruption and receptor recognition, further solidifying his position as a distinguished contributor to the field of science and technology.

Funding

⚫ Natural Science Fund for Colleges and Universities in Jiangsu Province of China
(Grant No. 20KJB550002)
⚫ National Youth Talent Sup- port Program of the China Association for Science
and Technology (Grant No. 20220615ZZ07110388)
⚫ Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu Province, China (Grant No.
BK20200954)
⚫ Laboratory of Xinjiang Native Medicinal and Edible Plant Resources Chemistry,
Kashi University (Grant No. KSUZDSYS202305) Skills

Publication