Alireza Dehnad | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Alireza Dehnad | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization | Iran 

Dr. Alireza Dehnad is an accomplished microbiologist and biotechnologist with extensive experience spanning veterinary microbiology, microbial biotechnology, and industrial applications. His research portfolio encompasses viral and bacterial disease studies in both humans and animals, bioprocess optimization, green synthesis of nanoparticles, probiotic development, antibiotic-producing Actinomycetes, and advanced biotechnological approaches for wound healing, bioremediation, and controlled-release drug delivery. He has contributed significantly to microbial screening, identification of bioactive metabolites, and the taxonomical characterization of plant growth–promoting Actinobacteria. With strong involvement in academic supervision and scientific training, he has guided numerous graduate research projects and delivered substantial teaching hours across microbiology, biotechnology, and veterinary sciences. His leadership roles in research centers, scientific committees, and biotechnology laboratories reflect a long-standing commitment to scientific development and innovation. Dr. Dehnad’s scholarly output includes 39 documents, supported by 666 citations across 647 citing sources, and an h-index of 13, highlighting the impact and visibility of his work within the global scientific community. His multidisciplinary expertise, combined with sustained contributions to advanced microbial research, positions him as a leading figure in applied microbiology and biotechnological innovation.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publications

1. Hajyasini, A., Dehnad, A., Farzi, A., Mobasseri, M., Ostadrahimi, A., & Kafili, B. (2025). Effect of Selenomethionine-enriched yeast on hypothyroidism patients. Archives of Razi Institute.

2. Mazloumi, Z., Rafat, A., Asl, K. D., Karimipour, M., Shanehbandi, D., Talebi, M., Montazer, M., Movassaghpour, A. A., Dehnad, A., Farahzadi, R., & Nozad Charoudeh, H. (2024). Telomerase and mitochondria inhibition promote apoptosis and TET2 and ANMT3a expression in triple negative breast cancer cell lines. Bioimpacts.

3. Tikmehdash, H. T., Dehnad, A., Mosavari, N., Hokmabadi, B. N., & Mahmazi, S. (2024). Isolation, serological and molecular methods in screening of Burkholderia mallei in East Azerbaijan province, Iran. Veterinary Research Forum.

Nihed Ben Halima | Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Nihed Ben Halima | Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

Nihed Ben Halima | University of Sfax | Tunisia

Dr. Nihed Ben Halima is a distinguished Doctor-Engineer in Biology with extensive expertise in biological engineering, plant enzymology, lipidomics, proteomics, and the valorization of oat (Avena sativa L.) biomolecules for food and nutraceutical applications. He earned his Ph.D. from the National School of Engineers of Sfax, Tunisia, in 2015, with a dissertation focusing on enzymes and oil from oat for biomolecular production. Dr. Ben Halima has accumulated significant academic and research experience, serving as a faculty member at the National School of Engineers of Sfax, the Faculty of Medicine of Sfax, and the Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Sfax, where he taught courses in enzymology, biochemistry, histology, nutrition, and food sciences. His research portfolio encompasses international collaborations, including stays in France and Cameroon, and contributions to global projects such as high-rate algal ponds for wastewater treatment. He is a prolific author with over 22 peer-reviewed publications, 17 book chapters, and multiple books, totaling 1,172 citations by 1,134 documents and an h-index of 17. His work spans plant lipolytic enzymes, glycoside hydrolases, essential oils, and bioinformatic analyses, demonstrating a commitment to advancing sustainable biotechnological solutions. Dr. Ben Halima is also actively engaged in scientific reviewing and social networks, including Web of Science, Scopus, ResearchGate, and Google Scholar, highlighting his influence in the global scientific community.

Profiles:  Scopus | Orcid | Research Gate 

Featured Publications

  • Ben Halima, N. (2020). Insight into cellulose-based nanomaterials – A pursuit of environmental remedies. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 163, 1480–1486.

  • Ben Halima, N. (2019). Unique sequence signatures in plant lipolytic enzymes. IGI Global.

  • Ben Halima, N. (2019). Analysis of glycoside hydrolases from oat (Avena sativa) seedling extract. Bioinformation, 15, 678–688.

  • Ben Halima, N. (2019). New insights into phospholipases in oat (Avena sativa) from bioinformatic analysis. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 133, 804–810.

Bong Geun Chung | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Bong Geun Chung | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Bong Geun Chung, Sogang University, South Korea

Prof. Bong Geun Chung is a renowned professor at Sogang University, South Korea, specializing in biomedical engineering and mechanical engineering. With a Ph.D. from the University of California, Irvine, and prior degrees from Hanyang University, his research focuses on cutting-edge fields such as organ-on-a-chip, digital PCR, biosensors, nanomaterials, and AI modeling. Currently serving as the Director of the Institute of Smart Biosensor and Chair of the Department of Biomedical Engineering, Prof. Chung has authored over 110 SCIE papers and contributed to multiple technology transfers, bridging academia and industry.

Profile

Orcid

Summary:

Prof. Bong Geun Chung’s exceptional academic background, extensive publication record, and innovative research make him an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions to biosensors, organ-on-a-chip technology, and cancer therapy exemplify groundbreaking advancements with real-world applications. His leadership roles at Sogang University further highlight his commitment to advancing research and education.

 

🎓 Education

Prof. Bong Geun Chung earned his Doctor of Philosophy degree in March 2007 from the University of California, Irvine, USA. Prior to this, he completed a Master of Science degree in August 2002 and a Bachelor of Science degree in February 1997, both from Hanyang University in Seoul, Korea.

 

💼Experience

Prof. Bong Geun Chung is currently serving as the Director of the Institute of Smart Biosensor at Sogang University, Seoul, Korea, since June 2023. Additionally, he is the Chair of the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the same university, a role he assumed in September 2023 and will continue until August 2025. He has been a Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Sogang University since March 2019, after previously serving as an Associate Professor from March 2014 to February 2019 and as an Assistant Professor from March 2013 to February 2014. Prior to joining Sogang University, he worked as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Bionano Engineering at Hanyang University, Ansan, Korea, from September 2009 to February 2013. His earlier career includes roles as an Instructor at the Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, USA, from December 2008 to August 2009, and as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the same institution from April 2007 to December 2008.

 

🔬Research Focus

Prof. Chung’s research interests span diverse and cutting-edge fields, including organ-on-a-chip, digital PCR, biosensors, iontophoresis, nanomaterials, stem cell-based organoid and tissue engineering, battery and supercapacitor technologies, and machine learning and AI modeling. His work bridges interdisciplinary approaches to address key challenges in biomedical engineering, nanotechnology, and energy systems.

 

Awards

Prof. Chung has been recognized for his significant contributions to research and academia. He is currently serving as the Executive Editor of Nano Convergence (2022–2026) and has chaired the Nanobiotechnology Session of the Nano Korea Symposium (2023–2025). Beyond academia, he has successfully transferred multiple technologies, collaborating with companies like BioTNS, Fabios, and Woorim Tech. These achievements underscore his influence in both research innovation and industrial applications.

 

Skills

Prof. Chung is an expert in integrating multidisciplinary knowledge, with a strong background in biosensor technology, nanobiotechnology, and organ-on-a-chip systems. His proficiency extends to the application of machine learning and AI modeling for experimental and analytical advancements. Additionally, his experience in managing research projects and leading academic departments highlights his organizational and leadership capabilities.

 

Publications

  • Electro-Responsive Conductive Blended Hydrogel Patch
    • Year: 2023
    • Contributors: Jang Ho Ha, Jae Hyun Lim, Jong Min Lee, Bong Geun Chung

 

  • Antioxidant, Enzyme, and H₂O₂-Triggered Melanoma Targeted Mesoporous Organo-Silica Nanocomposites for Synergistic Cancer Therapy
    • Year: 2022
    • Contributors: Hyung Woo Choi, Jae Hyun Lim, Taewook Kang, Bong Geun Chung

 

  • 3D Multicellular Tumor Spheroids in a Microfluidic Droplet System for Investigation of Drug Resistance
    • Year: 2022
    • Contributors: Sang Ik Lee, Yoon Young Choi, Seong Goo Kang, Tae Hyeon Kim, Jiwook Choi, Young Jae Kim, Tae-Hyung Kim, Taewook Kang, Bong Geun Chung

 

  • Near-Infrared Light-Triggered Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species and Induction of Local Hyperthermia from Indocyanine Green Encapsulated Mesoporous Silica-Coated Graphene Oxide for Colorectal Cancer Therapy
    • Year: 2022
    • Contributors: Hyung Woo Choi, Jae Hyun Lim, Chan Woo Kim, Eunmi Lee, Jin-Moo Kim, Kiyuk Chang, Bong Geun Chung

 

  • Sequential and Comprehensive Algorithm for Fault Detection in Semiconductor Sensors
    • Year: 2021
    • Contributors: Hirak Mazumdar, Tae Hyeon Kim, Jong Min Lee, Euiseok Kum, Seungho Lee, Suho Jeong, Bong Geun Chung

 

  • Conductive GelMA–Collagen–AgNW Blended Hydrogel for Smart Actuator
    • Year: 2021
    • Contributors: Jang Ho Ha, Jae Hyun Lim, Ji Woon Kim, Hyeon-Yeol Cho, Seok Geun Jo, Seung Hyun Lee, Jae Young Eom, Jong Min Lee, Bong Geun Chung

 

Conclusion:

Prof. Bong Geun Chung is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. His interdisciplinary expertise, impactful research, and ability to translate science into practical solutions make him a standout candidate. To further solidify his position, greater global outreach, increased focus on societal impact, and enhanced industry engagement are areas that could be explored. Nonetheless, his current achievements already set a high standard of excellence and innovation.

Nunzio Alberto Fazio | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

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 Dr. Nunzio Alberto Fazio | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

 Dr. Nunzio Alberto Fazio ,University of Catania, Italy

Dr. Nunzio Alberto Fazio is a Ph.D. researcher in Agro-Food Biotechnology at the University of Catania, Italy. His work focuses on the selection and application of indigenous yeasts to enhance the quality of local wines, particularly from the Etna region. With a strong background in agricultural biotechnology, microbiology, and fermentation science, Dr. Fazio has collaborated with leading institutions in Spain, France, and the U.S. He is skilled in advanced laboratory techniques and committed to developing sustainable solutions in the agri-food sector through innovative research and biotechnology.

 

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Nunzio Alberto Fazio is a well-qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his innovative research in biotechnology and sustainable wine fermentation. His technical expertise, international collaborations, and impactful publications underline his academic excellence and relevance in the field. His research bridges science and sustainability, offering solutions for enhancing regional wine production through indigenous microbial resources.

 

🎓 Education

Nunzio holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Technologies and a Master’s degree in Agricultural Biotechnology from the Università degli Studi di Catania, where he graduated with distinction (110/110 cum laude). His academic journey culminates in a Ph.D. in Agro-Food Biotechnology with a research focus on indigenous yeasts for enhancing local wines. His educational path includes international experiences in Spain, France, the United States, Portugal, and the Czech Republic through various Erasmus+ and visiting student programs.

💼Experience

Nunzio’s professional experience spans across multiple international institutions, contributing to his expertise in agri-food biotechnology. He has participated in internships and research projects in Czechia, Spain, France, and the U.S., where he focused on forestry, viticulture, wine biotechnology, and microbiological analysis. His work includes forest pest control, reforestation, laboratory-scale fermentation, and the use of unconventional yeasts in wine production.

🔬Research Focus

Nunzio’s research is dedicated to the investigation and application of indigenous yeasts to enhance the quality and authenticity of local wines. His Ph.D. work involves identifying and selecting S. cerevisiae and non-Saccharomyces yeasts from Sicilian wineries, particularly around Etna Volcano, aiming to develop commercial starter cultures for local wine fermentations. His research includes microbiology, genetic analysis, micro-fermentation trials, and sensory evaluations to optimize wine production.

🏆Awards

He is recognized as an International Soil Scientist Award nominee and has co-authored publications focusing on exploiting conventional and unconventional yeasts for winemaking. His notable research publication includes “Inside Current Winemaking Challenges: Exploiting the Potential of Conventional and Unconventional Yeasts.”

Skills

Nunzio Alberto Fazio is proficient in laboratory analysis, including microbiological, analytical, and molecular techniques such as MALDI-TOF, HPLC, PCR, and DNA extraction. He is skilled in project management, statistical analysis, data interpretation, and fermentation management. His expertise extends to genomics, bioinformatics tools, and software such as Microsoft Office Suite and R. Additionally, he demonstrates strong organizational and soft skills, including documentation management, time management, problem resolution, and cultural sensitivity.

Publications

  • Fazio, N.A., Pino, A., Foti, P., Torija, M.-J., Caggia, C.
    Title: Screening and characterization of indigenous Saccharomyces cerevisiae and non-Saccharomyces yeasts isolated from Sicilian vineyards
    Journal: Food Bioscience, 2024, Volume 62, Article 105282
    Citations: 0
  • Fazio, N.A., Russo, N., Foti, P., Caggia, C., Randazzo, C.L.
    Title: Inside Current Winemaking Challenges: Exploiting the Potential of Conventional and Unconventional Yeasts
    Journal: Microorganisms, 2023, Volume 11, Issue 5, Article 1338
    Citations: 12

 

Conclusion:

Dr. Fazio’s strengths in research innovation, technical expertise, and international collaboration position him as a leading contender for the Best Researcher Award. Focusing on increasing industry engagement, developing patents, and expanding his citation record would further solidify his candidacy, making him an even more distinguished researcher in the biotechnology community.