Martina Torricelli | Biochemistry | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Martina Torricelli | Biochemistry | Women Researcher Award

Ricercatore sanitario at Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche “Togo Rosati”, Italy

Martina Torricelli is a dedicated biomedical researcher with over a decade of experience in molecular biology, biotechnology, and public health. She holds a PhD in Animal Health and Food Safety and is currently a permanent Research Scientist at the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche. Her research spans molecular diagnostics, food safety, zoonotic diseases, and genetic studies in both human and veterinary contexts. Martina played a crucial role in the COVID-19 response through molecular testing and viral sequencing. She is also pursuing a specialization in Clinical Pathology and holds a Master’s in Health Management, reflecting her commitment to both scientific and organizational excellence. Her technical expertise includes real-time PCR, sequencing, and bioinformatics, supported by numerous national research projects. Passionate about science, she consistently contributes to scientific writing and project development. Martina exemplifies perseverance, scientific rigor, and a strong contribution to public health, making her a valuable figure in biomedical research.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile

Education

Martina Torricelli has a comprehensive academic background in life sciences and biotechnology. She holds a PhD in “Animal Health, Livestock Production, and Food Safety” from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Perugia, where she conducted research at the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche (IZSUM). She is also a licensed Biologist, having passed the national certification exam in 2014 and is registered in the Order of Biologists (Section A). To further enhance her clinical and diagnostic expertise, Martina enrolled in a specialization school in Clinical Pathology and Biochemistry and is currently in her third year. Complementing her scientific education, she obtained a Level II Master’s in Healthcare Management from the University “Niccolò Cusano” in 2024. Her academic achievements reflect a multidisciplinary approach that bridges research, diagnostics, and management, preparing her for both laboratory innovation and healthcare leadership roles.

Professional Experience

Martina Torricelli’s professional journey is rooted in research and diagnostic laboratories at the IZSUM, where she has built a solid reputation in molecular biology and biotechnology. With more than a decade of experience, she has held various research positions funded through scholarships and fixed-term contracts before earning a permanent role as a Research Scientist in 2024. Her work has involved developing and validating molecular techniques for detecting pathogens, food allergens, and genetic polymorphisms in both animal and food matrices. Notably, she contributed to Italy’s COVID-19 emergency response by performing molecular analysis and sequencing of SARS-CoV-2. Martina has led or contributed to several national projects, including genetic improvement in dairy herds and the study of Toll-like receptor polymorphisms in bovines. Her ability to bridge field diagnostics, laboratory innovation, and applied research showcases her versatility and reliability as a scientific professional in both public health and veterinary fields.

Research Interests

Martina Torricelli’s research interests focus on molecular diagnostics, genetic characterization, food safety, zoonotic diseases, and host-pathogen interactions. Her work reflects a strong commitment to improving both animal and public health through the application of cutting-edge biotechnological tools. She has worked extensively with PCR, real-time PCR, digital PCR, DNA sequencing, and in silico bioinformatic analysis. Notably, she has investigated SNP associations in immune-related genes, such as Toll-like receptors in cattle, and contributed to allergen detection and GMO studies in food. Her PhD and subsequent research emphasized translational science, connecting lab-based findings to real-world health applications. Martina is also passionate about One Health approaches, integrating veterinary and human diagnostics. She actively contributes to writing scientific papers and research proposals, further showing her commitment to academic dissemination and innovation. Her interests continue to evolve toward clinical pathology, supported by her current specialization studies, ensuring a well-rounded profile with both depth and adaptability.

Awards and Honors

While specific awards are not explicitly listed, Martina Torricelli’s career achievements and academic recognitions highlight a consistently excellent performance in the biomedical research field. She successfully obtained her PhD with top evaluations and earned national recognition by qualifying as a registered Biologist. Martina’s continuous receipt of competitive research fellowships at IZSUM for over a decade reflects institutional trust and recognition of her expertise and dedication. Her involvement in key national research projects—such as those focused on food allergen detection, genetic resistance in livestock, and SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics—demonstrates her reputation as a reliable and skilled scientist. Her recent promotion to a permanent Research Scientist position in 2024 further underlines the institutional value placed on her work. Additionally, her enrollment and success in the Clinical Pathology specialization and Health Management Master’s program showcase her drive to continuously expand her professional competence, making her a strong candidate for recognition such as the Women Researcher Award.

Conclusion

Martina Torricelli stands out as a passionate, driven, and well-rounded biomedical researcher whose work has significantly contributed to molecular diagnostics, public health, and veterinary science. Her extensive experience at IZSUM, participation in nationally significant projects, and evolving academic pursuits highlight her adaptability and continuous professional growth. She brings together technical expertise, collaborative spirit, and an interdisciplinary outlook aligned with the principles of One Health. Her dedication to scientific rigor, innovation, and her pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic further underscore her impact. Martina’s transition from scholarship-based roles to a permanent research position is a testament to her competence and commitment. With ongoing specialization in clinical pathology and advanced training in healthcare management, she is well-equipped for leadership in research and diagnostic innovation. These attributes collectively make her a highly deserving candidate for the Women Researcher Award, celebrating both her achievements and her potential for continued contributions to science and public health.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Gene Expression Study in Gilthead Seabream (Sparus aurata): Effects of Dietary Supplementation with Olive Oil Polyphenols on Immunity, Metabolic, and Oxidative Stress Pathways
    Authors: Torricelli, Martina; Felici, Andrea; Branciari, Raffaella; Ranucci, David; Agnetti, Francesco
    Year: 2024
    Source: International Journal of Molecular Sciences

  • Title: Terbinafine Resistance in Trichophyton Strains Isolated from Humans and Animals: A Retrospective Cohort Study in Italy, 2016 to May 2024
    Authors: Crotti, Silvia; Cruciani, Deborah; Sabbatucci, Michela; Spina, Sara; Piscioneri, Vincenzo; Torricelli, Martina; Calcaterra, Roberta; Farina, Claudio; Pisano, Luigi; PAPINI, Manuela
    Year: 2024
    Source: Journal of Clinical Medicine
    DOI: 10.3390/jcm13185493

  • Title: Evaluation of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) Associated with Genetic Resistance to Bovine Paratuberculosis in Marchigiana Beef Cattle, an Italian Native Breed
    Authors: Mazzone, Piera; Di Paolo, Antonella; Petrucci, Linda; Torricelli, Martina; Corneli, Sara; Sebastiani, Carla; Ciullo, Marcella; Sebastianelli, Martina; Costarelli, Silva; Scoccia, Eleonora
    Year: 2023
    Source: Animals
    DOI: 10.3390/ANI13040587

  • Title: Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) and CD163 Resistance Polymorphic Markers: What Is the Scenario in Naturally Infected Pig Livestock in Central Italy?
    Authors: Torricelli, Martina; Fratto, Anna; Ciullo, Marcella; Sebastiani, Carla; Arcangeli, Chiara; Felici, Andrea; Giovannini, Samira; Sarti, Francesca Maria; Sensi, Marco; Biagetti, Massimo
    Year: 2023
    Source: Animals
    DOI: 10.3390/ANI13152477

  • Title: Tapeworms Detected in Wolf Populations in Central Italy (Umbria and Marche regions): A Long-term Study
    Authors: Crotti, Silvia; Spina, Sara; Cruciani, Deborah; Bonelli, Piero; Felici, Andrea; Gavaudan, Stefano; Gobbi, Marco; Morandi, Federico; Piseddu, Toni; Torricelli, Martina
    Year: 2023
    Source: International Journal for Parasitology: Parasites and Wildlife
    DOI: 10.1016/J.IJPPAW.2023.03.007

  • Title: Genetic Characterization of Small Ruminant Lentiviruses (SRLVs) Circulating in Naturally Infected Sheep in Central Italy
    Authors: Arcangeli, Chiara; Torricelli, Martina; Sebastiani, Carla; Lucarelli, Daniele; Ciullo, Marcella; Passamonti, Fabrizio; Giammarioli, Monica; Biagetti, Massimo
    Year: 2022
    Source: Viruses
    DOI: 10.3390/V14040686

  • Title: Marker-assisted Selection of Dairy Cows for Beta-casein Gene A2 Variant
    Authors: Sebastiani, Carla; Arcangeli, Chiara; Torricelli, Martina; Ciullo, Marcella; D’avino, Nicoletta; Cinti, Giulia; Fisichella, Stefano; Biagetti, Massimo
    Year: 2022
    Source: Italian Journal of Food Science
    DOI: 10.15586/IJFS.V34I2.2178

  • Title: PRNP Polymorphisms in Eight Local Goat Populations/Breeds from Central and Southern Italy
    Authors: Torricelli, Martina; Sebastiani, Carla; Ciullo, Marcella; Ceccobelli, Simone; Chiappini, Barbara; Vaccari, Gabriele; Capocefalo, Antonio; Conte, Michela; Giovannini, Samira; Lasagna, Emiliano
    Year: 2021
    Source: Animals
    DOI: 10.3390/ANI11020333

  • Title: First Survey of SNPs in TMEM154, TLR9, MYD88 and CCR5 Genes in Sheep Reared in Italy and Their Association with Resistance to SRLVs Infection
    Authors: Arcangeli, Chiara; Lucarelli, Daniele; Torricelli, Martina; Sebastiani, Carla; Ciullo, Marcella; Pellegrini, Claudia; Felici, Andrea; Costarelli, Silva; Giammarioli, Monica; Feliziani, Francesco
    Year: 2021
    Source: Viruses
    DOI: 10.3390/v13071290

  • Title: Early Detection of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis Infected Cattle: Use of Experimental Johnins and Innovative Interferon-Gamma Test Interpretative Criteria
    Year: 2021
    Source: Frontiers in Veterinary Science
    DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.638890

  • Title: Frequencies Evaluation of Beta-Casein Gene Polymorphisms in Dairy Cows Reared in Central Italy
    Authors: Sebastiani, Carla; Arcangeli, Chiara; Ciullo, Marcella; Torricelli, Martina; Cinti, Giulia; Fisichella, Stefano; Biagetti, Massimo
    Year: 2020
    Source: Animals
    DOI: 10.3390/ANI10020252

  • Title: Sesame, Pistachio, and Macadamia Nut: Development and Validation of New Allergenic Systems for Fast Real-Time PCR Application
    Year: 2020
    Source: Foods
    DOI: 10.3390/foods9081085

  • Title: A Multi-screening Fast qPCR Approach to the Identification of Abortive Agents in Ruminants
    Year: 2018
    Source: Journal of Microbiological Methods
    DOI: 10.1016/J.MIMET.2018.03.009

  • Title: Digital PCR for Analysis of Peanut and Soybean Allergens in Foods
    Year: 2018
    Source: Food Control
    DOI: 10.1016/J.FOODCONT.2018.04.039

  • Title: Evaluation of Systems for Nopaline Synthase Terminator in Fast and Standard Real-Time PCR to Screen Genetically Modified Organisms
    Year: 2016
    Source: Food Analytical Methods
    DOI: 10.1007/S12161-015-0283-7

  • Title: In-house Validation of a DNA Extraction Protocol from Honey and Bee Pollen and Analysis in Fast Real-Time PCR of Commercial Honey Samples Using a Knowledge-Based Approach
    Year: 2016
    Source: Food Analytical Methods
    DOI: 10.1007/S12161-016-0539-X

 

 

Edio Maldonado | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Edio Maldonado | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Profesor, Universidad de Chile, Chile

👨‍🔬 Dr. Edio Luis Maldonado Maldonado is an accomplished biochemist and molecular biologist specializing in transcription regulation and molecular biology. Currently, he serves as an Associate Professor at the University of Chile, where he contributes to the Cellular and Molecular Biology Program. With a research background that spans several prestigious institutions, Dr. Maldonado is recognized for his pioneering work in RNA polymerase II transcription factors, with his research widely published in prominent scientific journals.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

🎓 Dr. Maldonado’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s in Sciences from Universidad Austral de Chile (1979-1983). He then pursued a Master’s in Sciences with a focus on Immunology at the same university (1983-1987). To deepen his expertise, he completed his Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ) in the USA (1990-1996).

Experience

🏛️ Dr. Maldonado has held notable academic and research positions throughout his career. He started as an Assistant Professor at the Universidad Austral de Chile (1984-1987). After completing his Ph.D., he undertook postdoctoral research at the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, UMDNJ (1996-1997). He then joined the University of Chile as an Assistant Professor (1997-2004) before advancing to his current role as an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Medicine in the Cellular and Molecular Biology Program.

Research Interests

🔬 Dr. Maldonado’s research primarily revolves around the molecular mechanisms of gene transcription in mammalian cells, focusing on the role of RNA polymerase II and its associated transcription factors. His work sheds light on transcriptional regulation, providing insights that could impact various fields, including genetics and disease pathology.

Awards

🏆 Dr. Maldonado’s contributions to molecular biology and biochemistry have earned him respect in the scientific community, with his research frequently cited by peers and featured in high-impact journals.

Publications

“Factors involved in specific transcription by mammalian RNA polymerase II: RNA polymerase II associating protein 30 is an essential component of transcription factor IIF.”
📖 Journal of Biological Chemistry (1988), 2, pp. 975-990.
[Cited by other researchers]

“Factors involved in specific transcription by mammalian RNA polymerase II: factors IIE and IIF independently interact with RNA polymerase II.”
📖 Journal of Biological Chemistry (1989), 264, pp. 8913-8921.
[Cited by other researchers]

“A TATA-like sequence located downstream of the transcriptional initiation site is required for expression of an RNA polymerase II transcribed gene.”
📖 Genes and Development (1990), 4, pp. 1611-1622.
[Cited by other researchers]

“Factors involved in specific transcription by mammalian RNA polymerase II: role of factors IIA, IID and IIB during formation of a transcription competent complex.”
📖 Molecular and Cell Biology (1990), 10, pp. 6335-6347.
[Cited by other researchers]

“Direct Interaction between adenovirus E1a protein and the TATA-box binding transcription factor IID.”
📖 Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA (1991), 88, pp. 5124-5128.
[Cited by other researchers]

 

Joseph Adebayo | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Joseph Adebayo | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof Joseph Adebayo, University of Ilorin, Nigeria

Professor Oluwatosin Adekunle Adaramoye, born on August 24, 1969, is a distinguished academic in the Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. He earned his Ph.D. in Biochemistry in 2005 from the University of Ibadan, following his M.Sc. in 1997 and B.Sc. in 1994. His career began as an Assistant Lecturer in 1998, and he was promoted to Professor in 2015. Professor Adaramoye’s research focuses on biochemical and pharmacological properties of medicinal plants, particularly in drug metabolism and cancer prevention. He has held significant administrative roles, including Head of Department and Provost. His global academic contributions are supported by numerous international fellowships and grants.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Research Experience:
    • Professor Adaramoye has an impressive array of research topics ranging from biochemistry of natural products to anti-cancer and anti-diabetic studies. This breadth and depth in research demonstrate a strong and sustained contribution to the field.
  2. Significant Grants and Fellowships:
    • Secured multiple prestigious grants and fellowships from notable institutions such as TWAS, UNESCO, and DAAD, indicating recognition by the global research community.
  3. High-Quality Publications:
    • Authored or co-authored numerous articles in reputable journals, which underscores a high level of scholarly output. For instance, papers in journals like Journal of Ethnopharmacology and Scientific Reports highlight significant contributions to medicinal plant research and pharmacology.
  4. Innovative Research Projects:
    • Ongoing projects such as the high throughput screening of Nigerian herbs for soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibition show innovative approaches to tackling critical health issues like hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.
  5. International Research Collaboration:
    • Extensive international collaborations with institutions in UAE, Brazil, Iran, Germany, and India suggest a strong global network and recognition in the field.
  6. Leadership and Administrative Roles:
    • Experience as Head of Department and other administrative roles indicates leadership and a significant role in shaping academic programs and research directions.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Publication Impact:
    • While the CV lists numerous publications, it would be beneficial to provide metrics such as impact factors or citation indices to better gauge the influence of the research work.
  2. Research Translation:
    • Focus on translating research findings into practical applications or products could be emphasized. Demonstrating how the research has led to tangible benefits or advancements in the field might strengthen the award application.
  3. Broader Interdisciplinary Work:
    • Exploring interdisciplinary research could further enhance the impact. For example, integrating biochemistry with fields like bioinformatics or computational biology might open new avenues for exploration.
  4. Mentorship and Training:
    • Highlighting efforts in mentoring and training young researchers or students, beyond the current supervision details, could provide a fuller picture of the professor’s contributions to the academic community.

Education

Professor Adaramoye’s educational journey includes a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Ilorin (1994), a Master of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Ibadan (1997), and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Biochemistry from the University of Ibadan (2005). His academic pursuits have been marked by a commitment to advancing knowledge in biochemistry through rigorous research and teaching. His doctoral thesis explored the biochemical and pharmacological properties of Garcinia kola, highlighting his focus on natural products and their therapeutic potentials.

Experience

With over two decades of academic experience, Professor Adaramoye has served as Assistant Lecturer, Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, Reader, and Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Ibadan. His teaching spans undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including courses in Enzymology, Lipid Biochemistry, and Drug Metabolism. He has supervised numerous research projects for B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. students. His administrative roles include Head of Department and Provost, demonstrating his leadership in academic governance and curriculum development.

Awards and Honors

Professor Adaramoye has received several prestigious awards and honors throughout his career. Notable recognitions include the University of Ilorin Undergraduate Scholarship Award, Federal Government of Nigeria Scholarship for Postgraduate Studies, and multiple international travel grants for scientific meetings. His post-doctoral fellowships and visiting scientist positions at institutions in Brazil, Iran, Germany, and India underscore his global impact and collaboration in biochemistry research. His work has been further supported by TETFUND and various other grants for research on medicinal plants.

Research Focus

Professor Adaramoye’s research focuses on the biochemical and pharmacological properties of medicinal plants, with particular interest in their potential as therapeutic agents. His work includes evaluating anti-oxidative, anti-diabetic, and anti-cancer effects of plant extracts. Current research involves screening Nigerian herbs for their potential as soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitors, targeting hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. His studies aim to discover novel, less toxic natural products for drug development and therapeutic applications.

Publication Top Notes

  • Potential antimalarials from Nigerian plants: a review 🌿
  • Effect of ethanolic extract of Bougainvillea spectabilis leaves on haematological and serum lipid variables in rats 🩸
  • Proximate composition and phytochemical constituents of leaves of some Acalypha species 🍃
  • Testing of natural products and synthetic molecules aiming at new antimalarials 💊
  • Effect of ethanolic extract of Khaya senegalensis on some biochemical parameters of rat kidney 🧬
  • Effects of aqueous extract of Eucalyptus globulus on lipid peroxidation and selected enzymes of rat liver 🌳
  • Enhancing the antimalarial activity of artesunate 💉
  • Effects of Aqueous Extracts of Petals of Red and Green Hibiscus sabdariffa on Plasma Lipid and Hematological Variables in Rats 🌺
  • Evaluation of the antiplasmodial and cytotoxicity potentials of husk fiber extracts from Cocos nucifera 🥥
  • Hepatoprotective effect of the aqueous extract of leaves of Acalypha racemosa in carbon tetrachloride treated rats 🌱
  • Toxicological studies and antimicrobial properties of some Iron (III) complexes of Ciprofloxacin 🧪
  • Activity of ethanolic extract of Clerodendrum violaceum leaves against Plasmodium berghei in mice 🐭
  • Mesoporous silica nanocarriers encapsulated antimalarials with high therapeutic performance 🧫
  • Inhibition mechanism of alpha-amylase by a steroidal pregnane and pregnane glycosides derived from Gongronema latifolium Benth 💚
  • Morinda lucida Benth (Rubiaceae): A review of its ethnomedicine, phytochemistry and pharmacology 📚

Conclusion

Professor Oluwatosin Adekunle Adaramoye is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on his extensive research experience, substantial international recognition, and significant contributions to the field of biochemistry. His work on medicinal plants, particularly in areas related to anti-cancer and anti-diabetic effects, combined with his leadership roles and global collaborations, positions him as a distinguished researcher. Addressing the areas for improvement could further bolster his application and showcase the broader impact of his research endeavors.