Edio Maldonado | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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

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.

Magellan Tchouakui | Biochemistry | Young Scientist Award

 Dr. Magellan Tchouakui | Biochemistry | Young Scientist Award

Research scientist, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases, Cameroon

🧬 Dr. Magellan Tchouakui is a Cameroonian research scientist at the Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases (CRID) and a Wellcome Trust Early-Career Fellow in Infection and Immunobiology at CRID/Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM). Having completed his Ph.D. in 2020, he has authored over 40 peer-reviewed articles focusing on mosquito biology, insecticide resistance, and malaria transmission. His current research is supported by a prestigious Wellcome Trust Early Career Grant, running from 2024 to 2029, aimed at characterizing insecticide resistance-associated fitness costs in major African malaria vectors.

Profile

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award

  1. Research Excellence and Innovation:
    • Dr. Tchouakui has made significant contributions to the field of medical entomology, particularly in understanding insecticide resistance in malaria vectors.
    • His work on the fitness cost of metabolic resistance to insecticides in African malaria vectors is pioneering and critical for malaria control strategies.
    • With over 40 peer-reviewed articles, he has a robust publication record in high-impact journals, showcasing the quality and impact of his research.
  2. Grants and Funding:
    • He has secured prestigious grants, such as the Wellcome Trust Early-Career Fellowship, demonstrating his ability to attract substantial research funding.
    • His role as PI and Co-PI in multiple projects funded by leading organizations (Wellcome Trust, CDC, Bayer, etc.) indicates strong leadership and project management skills.
  3. Professional Development and Contribution:
    • Dr. Tchouakui has been actively involved in various training programs and workshops, both as a participant and facilitator, indicating his commitment to continuous learning and knowledge dissemination.
    • His involvement in experimental trials for bed nets and indoor residual spraying products highlights his practical contributions to malaria control.
  4. Teaching and Mentorship:
    • He has experience lecturing in biostatistics, bacteriology, and mycology, and has been mentoring Ph.D. and Master’s students, demonstrating his dedication to educating the next generation of scientists.
  5. Recognition and Awards:
    • Numerous travel grants and invitations to present at international conferences underscore his recognition in the scientific community.
    • His role as a reviewer for several prestigious journals signifies his expertise and standing in the field.
  6. Professional Networks:
    • Membership in professional organizations such as ASTMH, PAMCA, and involvement in networks like VectorBiTE and AntiVec reflect his active engagement with the global research community.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Diversity of Research Focus:
    • While Dr. Tchouakui’s research on insecticide resistance is critical, broadening his research focus to include other aspects of vector control or related fields could enhance his contributions and impact.
  2. Collaborative Research:
    • Increasing collaborative efforts with researchers from different fields or regions may provide new insights and foster interdisciplinary approaches to malaria control.
  3. Public Engagement and Outreach:
    • Enhancing public engagement and science communication efforts can help translate research findings into policy and practice more effectively.
    • Participating in community outreach programs to educate the public about malaria prevention and control could amplify the societal impact of his work.
  4. Resource Allocation and Project Management:
    • Ensuring efficient allocation of resources and effective project management to maximize the outcomes of funded projects can further strengthen his research impact.

Education

🎓 Dr. Tchouakui holds a Ph.D. in Parasitology and Ecology from the University of Yaounde I (2020), where his thesis explored the fitness cost of metabolic resistance to insecticides in African malaria vectors. He also earned a Master of Science (MSc) in 2015 and a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in 2012 from the same university.

Experience

🔬 Dr. Tchouakui began his postdoctoral research at CRID under a Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation project, focusing on identifying markers of resistance to novel insecticides. He has extensive experience in mosquito biology, insecticide resistance monitoring, fitness cost evaluation, and malaria transmission studies. Additionally, he has facilitated numerous workshops and training sessions in molecular entomology and vector control.

Research Interest

🔍 Dr. Tchouakui’s research interests include studying the genetic and molecular mechanisms of insecticide resistance in malaria vectors, evaluating the efficacy of vector control tools, and investigating the fitness costs associated with resistance. He employs transcriptomic and genomic approaches to understand the drivers of resistance and collaborates on projects aimed at improving malaria vector management.

Awards

🏆 Dr. Tchouakui has received several travel grants to attend and present at international conferences, including the 3rd International Conference on Public Health in Africa (2023) and the 72nd Annual Meeting of the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (2023). He is also a reviewer for multiple scientific journals.

Publications Top Notes

📚 Dr. Tchouakui has published numerous impactful research papers. Here are some of his key publications:

Cytochrome P450 metabolic resistance (CYP6P9a) to pyrethroids imposes a fitness cost in the major African malaria vector Anopheles funestus (Heredity, 2020) – Cited by 621

Combined over-expression of two cytochrome P450 genes exacerbates the fitness cost of pyrethroid resistance in the major African malaria vector Anopheles funestus (Pesticide Biochemistry and Physiology, 2021) – Cited by 632

A 6.5kb Intergenic Structural Variation Exacerbates the Fitness Cost of P450-Based Metabolic Resistance in the Major African Malaria Vector Anopheles funestus (Genes, 2022) – Cited by 626

Fitness Costs of the Glutathione S-Transferase Epsilon 2 (L119F-GSTe2) Mediated Metabolic Resistance to Insecticides in the Major African Malaria Vector Anopheles funestus (Genes, 2018) – Cited by 645

A marker of glutathione S-transferase-mediated resistance to insecticides is associated with higher Plasmodium infection in the African malaria vector Anopheles funestus (Scientific Reports, 2019) – Cited by 5772

Conclusion

Dr. Magellan Tchouakui is a highly accomplished researcher whose work has significantly advanced our understanding of insecticide resistance in malaria vectors. His extensive publication record, successful grant acquisitions, and active participation in professional development activities make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. While he could benefit from diversifying his research focus and enhancing public engagement, his current contributions and ongoing projects already demonstrate exceptional promise and impact in the field of medical entomology.