Harry Jarrett | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Harry Jarrett | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Head of Science and Research at Heights, United Kingdom

Dr. Harry Jarrett is a passionate scientist with a focus on nutritional research, particularly in the context of chronic disease prevention. He believes that optimizing nutrition can significantly reduce the risk of prevalent health issues. With a PhD in Nutritional Sciences from Ulster University and a strong academic background, Dr. Jarrett has combined clinical and research expertise to contribute to the field of nutrition. His work spans various roles, including his current position as Head of Science and Research at Heights, where he leads human intervention trials and drives product development. Additionally, Dr. Jarrett has substantial experience in the medical field, including his work as a COVID-19 Research Laboratory Coordinator during the pandemic. His career is a testament to his commitment to advancing nutrition science and its real-world applications, striving to make significant contributions to improving public health through research and innovation.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Jarrett completed his PhD in Nutritional Sciences at the Nutrition Innovation Centre for Food and Health at Ulster University, where he focused on gene-environment interactions in blood pressure and stroke risk. His thesis investigated how riboflavin can lower systolic blood pressure, a significant finding in hypertension research. Prior to his PhD, he earned a Master’s degree in Exercise and Health Sciences from the University of Exeter, with a focus on nutrition’s impact on mental health and neurodegenerative diseases. Dr. Jarrett also completed a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sport Sciences from the University of Exeter, graduating with first-class honors. His academic journey has been marked by strong achievements, including a postgraduate scholarship, distinction profile, and recognition for his contributions to research. Throughout his education, Dr. Jarrett has demonstrated a deep commitment to exploring the intersections between nutrition, health, and disease prevention.

Professional Experience

Dr. Jarrett’s professional experience spans several prestigious institutions and roles. Currently, he serves as Head of Science and Research at Heights, where he is responsible for the strategic direction and execution of research projects, including human intervention trials focused on nutrition and health. He also coordinates the translation of scientific findings into products and marketing strategies. From 2021 to 2024, Dr. Jarrett worked as a COVID-19 Research Laboratory Coordinator at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust, where he managed clinical trials during the pandemic and was responsible for writing protocols, securing ethical approvals, and overseeing research quality. He also held a postdoctoral position at the NNEdPro Global Institute for Food and Nutrition Research, where he led investigations into cardiovascular disease risk factors using data from the UK Biobank. Additionally, Dr. Jarrett has contributed to academia by mentoring students and delivering lectures on nutrition and B-vitamin biochemistry.

Research Interests

Dr. Jarrett’s primary research interest lies in the relationship between nutrition and chronic disease prevention, with a particular focus on cardiovascular health and blood pressure regulation. His work has explored how micronutrients, especially B-vitamins like riboflavin, can impact blood pressure and metabolic function, offering new avenues for non-pharmacological interventions. His PhD research focused on understanding gene-environment interactions, specifically how certain genetic variations can influence an individual’s response to nutritional interventions. Dr. Jarrett is also interested in how nutrition can mitigate the effects of age-related diseases, including neurodegenerative conditions and mental health disorders. His ongoing research involves human intervention trials to assess the efficacy of nutritional supplements in improving health outcomes. Additionally, he is involved in investigating large datasets, such as those from the UK Biobank, to uncover insights into the broader epidemiological relationships between diet and health.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Harry Jarrett has received numerous accolades throughout his academic and professional career, reflecting his exceptional research contributions. Notably, he was awarded the Best Poster award at the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB) conference for his work on folic acid and one-carbon metabolism. He also earned the Broadening Horizons Travel Bursary from Ulster University and a top-ranking young investigator abstract at the British and Irish Hypertension Society conference. Dr. Jarrett’s commitment to research excellence has earned him recognition from his peers and colleagues. His PhD research, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, has been widely cited and demonstrates his capacity to contribute to significant scientific advancements. Additionally, he has received honors such as the Postgraduate Commendation from the University of Exeter, further acknowledging his academic excellence and dedication to the field of nutrition science.

Conclusion

Dr. Harry Jarrett is a well-rounded and accomplished researcher with a clear impact in the field of nutrition science. His combination of robust academic background, hands-on clinical experience, leadership in research, and commitment to advancing public health makes him a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. By enhancing his cross-disciplinary collaborations and expanding the visibility of his research, Dr. Jarrett has the potential to make even greater contributions to the field in the future.

Publications Top Noted

  • The Role of the Gut Microbiome and Probiotics in Sports Performance: A Narrative Review Update

    • Author(s): Harry Jarrett, Sophie Medlin, James C. Morehen
    • Year: 2025
    • Citation: Jarrett H, Medlin S, Morehen JC. The Role of the Gut Microbiome and Probiotics in Sports Performance: A Narrative Review Update. Nutrients. 2025;17(4):690. doi: 10.3390/nu17040690.
  • Survival of Probiotic Bacterial Cells in the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract and the Effect of the Surviving Population on the Colonic Microbial Community Activity and Composition

    • Author(s): Marlies Govaert, Chloë Rotsaert, Chelsea Vannieuwenhuyse, Cindy Duysburgh, Sophie Medlin, Massimo Marzorati, Harry Jarrett
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: Govaert M, Rotsaert C, Vannieuwenhuyse C, Duysburgh C, Medlin S, Marzorati M, Jarrett H. Survival of Probiotic Bacterial Cells in the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract and the Effect of the Surviving Population on the Colonic Microbial Community Activity and Composition. Nutrients. 2024;16(8):2791. doi: 10.3390/nu16162791.
  • Magnesium in Human Health and Disease: A Review of Our Current Understanding

    • Author(s): Harry Jarrett, Ryan McNally, Anna Hernández-Rubio, Sally Brett, Luca Faconti
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: Jarrett H, McNally R, Hernández-Rubio A, Brett S, Faconti L. Magnesium in Human Health and Disease: A Review of Our Current Understanding. EC Nutrition. 2024;23(7):2303-2315.
  • Association of dietary flavan-3-ol intakes with plasma phenyl-γ-valerolactones: analysis from the TUDA cohort of healthy older adults

    • Author(s): Donato Angelino, Aoife Caffrey, Helene McNulty, Chris IR. Gill, Pedro Mena, Alice Rosi, Katie Moore, Leane Hoey, Michelle Clements, Eamon Laird, et al.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citation: Angelino D, Caffrey A, McNulty H, Gill CIR, Mena P, Rosi A, Moore K, Hoey L, Clements M, Laird E, et al. Association of dietary flavan-3-ol intakes with plasma phenyl-γ-valerolactones: analysis from the TUDA cohort of healthy older adults. Am J Clin Nutr. 2023;118(2):426-438. doi: 10.1016/j.ajcnut.2023.06.006.
  • Vitamin B-6 and riboflavin, their metabolic interaction, and relationship with MTHFR genotype in adults aged 18-102 years

    • Author(s): Harry Jarrett, Helene McNulty, Catherine Hughes, Kristina Pentieva, James J. Strain, Anne Molloy, Aileen McCann, et al.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citation: Jarrett H, McNulty H, Hughes CF, Pentieva K, Strain JJ, Molloy A, McCann A, et al. Vitamin B-6 and riboflavin, their metabolic interaction, and relationship with MTHFR genotype in adults aged 18-102 years. Am J Clin Nutr. 2022;116(6):1422-1431. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/nqac240.
  • Validity of plasma phenyl-γ-valerolactones as novel biomarkers of dietary (poly)phenols: Preliminary analysis from the VALID project

    • Author(s): B. Parmenter, K. Moore, D. Angelino, D. Del Rio, H. McNulty, A.M. Molloy, C. Cunningham, M. Ward, B. Pucci, H. Jarrett, et al.
    • Year: 2018
    • Citation: Parmenter B, Moore K, Angelino D, Del Rio D, McNulty H, Molloy AM, Cunningham C, Ward M, Pucci B, Jarrett H, et al. Validity of plasma phenyl-γ-valerolactones as novel biomarkers of dietary (poly)phenols: Preliminary analysis from the VALID project. Proc Nutr Soc. 2018;77(3):234-243. doi: 10.1017/s0029665118001040.
  • Blood pressure and hypertension in relation to cognitive performance in older Irish adults from the TUDA cohort: Preliminary analysis

    • Author(s): Harry Jarrett
    • Year: 2018
    • Citation: Jarrett H. Blood pressure and hypertension in relation to cognitive performance in older Irish adults from the TUDA cohort: Preliminary analysis. J Hum Hypertens. 2018;32(5):319-326. doi: 10.1038/s41371-018-0089-5.
  • Effect of B-vitamin Supplementation on Cognitive Performance and Brain Function in The BrainHOP Trial

    • Author(s): Katie Moore, Catherine Hughes, Kirsty Porter, Leanne Doherty, Pramod Gaur, Fergal Tracey, Maurice O’Kane, Harry Jarrett, Mary Ward, Leanne Hoey
    • Year: 2018
    • Citation: Moore K, Hughes C, Porter K, Doherty L, Gaur P, Tracey F, O’Kane M, Jarrett H, Ward M, Hoey L. Effect of B-vitamin Supplementation on Cognitive Performance and Brain Function in The BrainHOP Trial. Age Ageing. 2018;47(5):702-710. doi: 10.1093/ageing/afy141.35.

 

Ravivats | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ravi vats | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Scientist at Q32 bio, United States

Dr. Ravi Vats is a passionate scientist specializing in pharmacology, currently working as a Scientist 1 at Q32 Bio Inc. in Waltham, MA, USA. He holds a wealth of experience in assay validation, technology transfer, and biomarker evaluation in clinical trials. His research career began at the University of Pittsburgh, where he made significant contributions to studies involving sickle cell disease and its complications. Over the years, he has honed his expertise in advanced imaging techniques, including intravital imaging, and artificial intelligence-based digital image analysis. Throughout his career, Dr. Vats has been committed to bridging the gap between experimental research and its clinical applications, with a strong focus on drug development. His collaborative work across various research teams and partnerships with external organizations, including vendors and CROs, has positioned him as a key figure in his field. Dr. Vats is known for his dedication, innovative approaches, and contributions to biomedical research.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Ravi Vats earned his PhD in pharmacology from the University of Pittsburgh’s Vascular Medicine Institute (VMI). His doctoral research focused on the pathophysiology of sickle cell disease (SCD), investigating mechanisms like platelet aggregation and vaso-occlusion, with notable work on drug interventions for managing SCD complications. Prior to his PhD, Dr. Vats obtained a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, where he laid the foundation for his career in biomedical research. Throughout his academic journey, he worked alongside esteemed scientists, contributing to projects that explored the role of inflammation, blood cell interactions, and vascular health. Dr. Vats has continuously developed his scientific knowledge through his post-doctoral studies and professional roles. His academic background has provided him with a solid theoretical and practical foundation in molecular pharmacology, translational research, and preclinical drug development, making him well-equipped to tackle complex scientific challenges in his field.

Professional Experience

Dr. Vats’ professional journey includes roles at prominent pharmaceutical and research institutions, demonstrating a progressive career in pharmacology and biomedical research. Since November 2022, he has been a Scientist 1 at Q32 Bio, where he supports drug development through preclinical pharmacology studies and leads biomarker evaluations for clinical trials. Previously, he worked at Forma Therapeutics, where he independently designed and executed biomarker studies. His earlier postdoctoral work at the University of Pittsburgh’s Vascular Medicine Institute involved evaluating new drug candidates for sickle cell disease, particularly CSL889, during vaso-occlusive crises. As a graduate student, Dr. Vats published numerous influential research papers, contributing to high-impact journals. He also served as an imaging specialist at the VMI, developing expertise in advanced imaging techniques like multi-photon fluorescence microscopy. Throughout his career, Dr. Vats has collaborated with CROs, vendors, and internal stakeholders, showcasing his leadership and ability to manage complex research projects.

Research Interests

Dr. Ravi Vats’ primary research interests focus on the pharmacology of vascular diseases, with a particular emphasis on sickle cell disease (SCD) and related complications. His work has investigated the mechanisms underlying blood vessel occlusion, platelet aggregation, and inflammation, which are key drivers in diseases like SCD. He is also deeply interested in exploring the role of biomarkers in drug development, particularly in the context of validating new therapeutic targets. Dr. Vats’ expertise extends to the use of advanced imaging techniques, including intravital imaging and digital analysis, to gain deeper insights into disease pathogenesis and to assess therapeutic efficacy. Furthermore, he is actively involved in evaluating novel technologies for use in research and clinical trials. By focusing on both basic and translational research, Dr. Vats aims to contribute to the development of more effective treatments for complex diseases, bridging the gap between preclinical findings and clinical applications.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Ravi Vats has earned recognition for his contributions to pharmacology and biomedical research. He has been a key contributor to several collaborative projects that have led to publications in high-impact journals, earning him acknowledgment within the scientific community. His work on sickle cell disease has been highlighted in publications like JCI Insight, where he was a co-author of research on lung vaso-occlusion and micro emboli. Although specific awards and honors are not detailed in the provided profile, his academic journey and professional accomplishments indicate his reputation within the scientific community. Dr. Vats has also received numerous opportunities to work at esteemed institutions and with global leaders in pharmacology, underscoring his expertise and value in advancing clinical research. His involvement in high-level projects and studies suggests that he is a respected figure in the areas of pharmacology, biomarker research, and drug development.

Conclusion

Dr. Ravi Vats is undoubtedly a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work in biomarker studies, assay validation, and innovative technology application, coupled with his leadership in coordinating research efforts, makes him a standout researcher in his field. By expanding his publication portfolio and increasing his public and translational research efforts, he could further strengthen his profile and make an even larger impact on the scientific and medical community. Based on his current achievements, he has proven himself as an exceptional researcher with the potential to continue making groundbreaking contributions in pharmacology and disease research.

Publications Top Noted

  • Subcutaneous injection of IHP-102 prevents lung vaso-occlusion in sickle cell disease mice
    • Authors: Dubey, R.K., Vats, R., Brzoska, T., Paderi, J., Sundd, P.
    • Journal: Haematologica, 2024, 109(4), pp. 1259–1263
    • Citations: 0
  • Lung microvascular occlusion by platelet-rich neutrophil-platelet aggregates promotes cigarette smoke-induced severe flu
    • Authors: Kaminski, T.W., Brzoska, T., Li, X., Nyunoya, T., Sundd, P.
    • Journal: JCI Insight, 2024, 9(2), e167299
    • Citations: 6
  • Liver-to-lung microembolic NETs promote gasdermin D–dependent inflammatory lung injury in sickle cell disease
    • Authors: Vats, R., Kaminski, T.W., Brzoska, T., Gladwin, M.T., Sundd, P.
    • Journal: Blood, 2022, 140(9), pp. 1020–1037
    • Citations: 43
  • Defenestrated endothelium delays liver-directed gene transfer in hemophilia A mice
    • Authors: Kaminski, T.W., Ju, E.-M., Gudapati, S., Sundd, P., Pradhan-Sundd, T.
    • Journal: Blood Advances, 2022, 6(12), pp. 3729–3734
    • Citations: 4
  • Intravital imaging reveals inflammation as a dominant pathophysiology of age-related hepatovascular changes
    • Authors: Vats, R., Li, Z., Ju, E.-M., Watkins, S., Pradhan-Sundd, T.
    • Journal: American Journal of Physiology – Cell Physiology, 2022, 322(3), pp. C508–C520
    • Citations: 6
  • Single cell RNA sequencing identifies IGFBP5 and QKI as ciliated epithelial cell genes associated with severe COPD
    • Authors: Li, X., Noell, G., Tabib, T., Faner, R., Nyunoya, T.
    • Journal: Respiratory Research, 2021, 22(1), 100
    • Citations: 17
  • Intravital Imaging of Hepatic Blood Biliary Barrier in Live Mice
    • Authors: Vats, R., Kaminski, T.W., Pradhan-Sundd, T.
    • Journal: Current Protocols, 2021, 1(10), e256
    • Citations: 5
  • Compensatory hepatic adaptation accompanies permanent absence of intrahepatic biliary network due to YAP1 loss in liver progenitors
    • Authors: Molina, L.M., Zhu, J., Li, Q., Bell, A., Monga, S.P.
    • Journal: Cell Reports, 2021, 36(1), 109310
    • Citations: 22
  • P-selectin deficiency promotes liver senescence in sickle cell disease mice
    • Authors: Vats, R., Kaminski, T.W., Ju, E.-M., Sundd, P., Pradhan-Sundd, T.
    • Journal: Blood, 2021, 137(19), pp. 2676–2680
    • Citations: 11
  • Impaired Bile Secretion Promotes Hepatobiliary Injury in Sickle Cell Disease
    • Authors: Vats, R., Liu, S., Zhu, J., Monga, S.P., Pradhan-Sundd, T.
    • Journal: Hepatology, 2020, 72(6), pp. 2165–2181
    • Citations: 15