Milad Shirvaliloo | Cancer Epigenetics | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Milad Shirvaliloo | Cancer Epigenetics | Best Researcher Award 

Research Associate | Iran University of Medical Sciences | Iran

Dr. Milad Shirvaliloo is an accomplished physician–researcher specializing in epigenetics with a focus on cancer and pulmonary medicine. Holding a Doctor of Medicine and a Master of Business Administration in Health Sciences, he combines clinical expertise with research innovation to advance precision medicine. As a Postgraduate Researcher at the Finetech in Medicine Research Center, he leads studies on nanoparticle-based therapeutic interventions and their effects on histone acetylation in cancer. Dr. Shirvaliloo has authored more than forty peer-reviewed publications and a book chapter, contributing extensively to understanding molecular and epigenetic mechanisms in disease pathogenesis. His scholarly output includes first-author and single-author papers in leading journals, where he explores the roles of histone modifications, long noncoding RNAs, and nanobiosensor technologies in diagnostics and therapeutics. He has demonstrated academic leadership as an Editorial Board Member for Epigenomics and Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry and has served as a peer reviewer for over sixty high-impact journals. Recognized for his scientific excellence and editorial contributions, he has received the Best Researcher Award for his outstanding achievements in biomedical science. His ongoing work reflects a strong commitment to translational research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentorship of emerging scientists. With a clear vision for integrating molecular biology, nanotechnology, and clinical application, Dr. Shirvaliloo exemplifies the future of innovative medical research and continues to make significant contributions to global health advancement.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Heris, R. M., Shirvaliloo, M., Abbaspour-Aghdam, S., Hazrati, A., Shariati, A., & others. (2022). The potential use of mesenchymal stem cells and their exosomes in Parkinson’s disease treatment. Stem Cell Research & Therapy, 13(1), 371.

2. Sheervalilou, R., Shirvaliloo, M., Dadashzadeh, N., Shirvalilou, S., Shahraki, O., & others. (2020). COVID‐19 under spotlight: A close look at the origin, transmission, diagnosis, and treatment of the 2019‐nCoV disease. Journal of Cellular Physiology, 235(12), 8873–8924.

3. Aghbash, P. S., Eslami, N., Shirvaliloo, M., & Baghi, H. B. (2021). Viral coinfections in COVID‐19. Journal of Medical Virology, 93(9), 5310–5322.

4. Shirvalilou, S., Khoei, S., Esfahani, A. J., Kamali, M., Shirvaliloo, M., & others. (2021). Magnetic hyperthermia as an adjuvant cancer therapy in combination with radiotherapy versus radiotherapy alone for recurrent/progressive glioblastoma: A systematic review. Journal of Neuro-Oncology, 152(3), 419–428.

5. Razlansari, M., Jafarinejad, S., Rahdar, A., Shirvaliloo, M., Arshad, R., & others. (2023). Development and classification of RNA aptamers for therapeutic purposes: An updated review with emphasis on cancer. Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, 478(7), 1573–1598.*

Dr. Milad Shirvaliloo’s pioneering research in epigenetics and nanomedicine bridges molecular science with clinical application, driving innovations in cancer and pulmonary disease diagnostics and therapies. His work advances precision medicine and fosters global scientific collaboration, contributing to more effective, personalized healthcare solutions.

Selcuk Comlekci | Bioengineering | Outstanding Scientist Award

Prof. Selcuk Comlekci | Bioengineering | Outstanding Scientist Award

Professor | Suleyman Demirel University | Turkey

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Selçuk Çömlekçi is a distinguished faculty member at Süleyman Demirel University, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering in Isparta, Turkey. He holds a Ph.D. in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Sakarya University, where he specialized in advanced electrical, electronic, and communication systems. With extensive academic and professional experience, he has served in various academic roles, including lecturer, assistant professor, and associate professor, contributing significantly to research, teaching, and innovation. His research expertise spans biomedical engineering, biophysics, electromagnetic and magnetic fields, microwave circuits, optoelectronic materials and devices, industrial and hazardous waste management, communication and control engineering, artificial intelligence, and fuzzy logic systems. Dr. Çömlekçi has participated in numerous national research projects focusing on areas such as wireless communication systems, nano-fiber production through electrospinning, and the development of electromagnetic shielding materials. His scientific work has contributed to advancements in biomedical signal processing, RF applications, and interdisciplinary engineering research. A respected academic and researcher, he has received recognition for his contributions to science and education and is actively involved in professional and scholarly communities through research collaborations, editorial engagements, and membership in scientific associations, exemplifying excellence and leadership in engineering and applied sciences.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus

Featured Publications

1. Investigation of the efficiency of pulsed electromagnetic field treatment and stretching exercise in experimental skeletal muscle injury model. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 2025.

2. Prophylactic effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic field on pulmonary ischemia-reperfusion via HIF-1α/eNOS pathway and BCL2/BAX signaling. Pulmonary Circulation, 2025.

3. Radiofrequency electromagnetic and pulsed magnetic fields protected the kidney against lipopolysaccharide-induced acute systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis by regulating the IL-6/HIF1α/eNOS and Bcl2/Bax/Cas-9 pathways. Medicina (Lithuania), 2025.

4. Effect of 10 kV/m electric field therapy in a pressure injury model in rats: An innovative preliminary report. Bioengineering, 2025.

5. Effect of short-term extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field on respiratory functions. Revista da Associação Médica Brasileira (1992), 2025.

Dr. Laura Cerchia | translational cancer research | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Laura Cerchia | translational cancer research | Best Researcher Award

PI, Group Leader at Institute of Endotypes in Oncology, Metabolism and Immunology “G. Salvatore”, National Research Council, Italy

Dr. Laura Cerchia is a leading researcher in cancer-targeting RNA aptamer technologies, serving as Group Leader at the Institute of Endotypes in Oncology, Metabolism and Immunology (CNR, Italy). She pioneered the cell-SELEX method, widely adopted across international labs, and developed multiple aptamers targeting tumor biomarkers such as EGFR, AXL, and PDGFRβ. These aptamers have significant applications in imaging, immunotherapy, and targeted drug delivery, with some now used globally in advanced nanomedicine platforms. Author of over 90 peer-reviewed publications with an H-index of 36, she also holds four international patents. Dr. Cerchia has received numerous grants and serves on several national and international scientific committees, including Horizon Europe’s PHIRE project. Her expertise is recognized through roles as evaluator, editorial board member, and scientific advisor. Her work bridges fundamental research and therapeutic innovation, making her a key figure in translational oncology and a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile 

Education

Dr. Laura Cerchia earned her PhD in Biochemical Sciences, building a strong academic foundation in molecular biology and biochemistry. Her educational background equipped her with expertise in RNA biology, molecular diagnostics, and therapeutic development. Her advanced training allowed her to explore the structural and functional aspects of nucleic acids, which later became central to her innovative work in aptamer development. During her academic years, she developed an early interest in translational research, which led her to specialize in the design of synthetic oligonucleotides for medical applications. Her doctoral and postdoctoral studies laid the groundwork for her pioneering approach in using aptamers for targeted cancer therapy. Her education not only deepened her scientific knowledge but also instilled a critical problem-solving mindset that continues to influence her research directions. Her scholarly path reflects a combination of academic rigor and innovative thinking, forming the basis for her future contributions to biomedical science.

Professional Experience

Dr. Laura Cerchia is currently Group Leader at the Institute of Endotypes in Oncology, Metabolism and Immunology “G. Salvatore” (IEOMI) within the National Research Council of Italy (CNR). Her professional journey has been marked by impactful roles in both scientific leadership and collaborative research. She developed the widely used cell-SELEX procedure and generated several clinically relevant RNA aptamers targeting key tumor markers. Beyond laboratory research, Dr. Cerchia serves on editorial boards of journals such as Scientific Reports and Molecules, and holds evaluative and advisory roles in national and international research bodies, including the Horizon Europe-funded PHIRE project. Her career reflects a balance of scientific innovation, project management, and institutional leadership. She has successfully secured multiple research grants, built interdisciplinary teams, and advanced new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Her professional experience showcases her ability to lead complex research initiatives and influence the broader scientific and clinical communities.

Research Interest

Dr. Cerchia’s research focuses on the development of nuclease-resistant RNA aptamers for cancer theranostics, therapeutics, and targeted drug delivery. She is especially interested in the use of aptamers as precision tools for recognizing and binding specific biomarkers in tumors, such as EGFR, AXL, and PDGFRβ. Her work involves designing aptamers that can be used for in vitro and in vivo imaging, antagonistic therapies, and as carriers for chemotherapeutics, small molecule inhibitors, siRNAs, or photosensitizers. Her innovations in cell-SELEX have enabled the selection of highly specific aptamers against aggressive cancer types like glioblastoma, NSCLC, and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). She is also exploring the potential of aptamers in immunotherapy, including their integration with nanomedicine platforms. Her interest lies in translating basic molecular discoveries into clinical applications, with a strong focus on personalized medicine. Overall, her research aims to bridge gaps between molecular biology, oncology, and therapeutic delivery systems.

Award and Honor

Dr. Laura Cerchia has received multiple national and international recognitions for her contributions to cancer research and aptamer technology. She is the recipient of prestigious research grants and has been invited to serve on scientific evaluation panels, including for the Wellcome Trust (UK), ANR SHAMS, PRIN, and Horizon Europe projects. In 2018, she achieved the National Scientific Qualification, allowing her to function as a Full Professor in general and clinical pathology within Italian universities—an acknowledgment of her academic and professional excellence. She also serves as President and expert evaluator for PRIN 2022 PNRR – ERC Sector LS1, reinforcing her leadership role in shaping national research priorities. Her aptamers are cited and utilized worldwide, further validating the high translational value of her work. In addition to her editorial board positions, these honors demonstrate her broad influence, scientific credibility, and sustained contributions to advancing biomedical research on both national and international levels.

Conclusion

Dr. Laura Cerchia exemplifies the qualities of a world-class biomedical researcher through her pioneering work in RNA aptamer technologies, extensive publication record, and active leadership in the international scientific community. With a robust educational background, decades of impactful professional experience, and deep research expertise, she has made significant contributions to translational cancer therapy. Her innovations have enabled more precise targeting of tumors, enhancing both diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities. Her work has not only influenced academic circles but also spurred technological advances in nanomedicine and drug delivery. The widespread adoption of her aptamers across global research groups attests to the relevance and utility of her discoveries. Coupled with numerous awards, advisory roles, and editorial contributions, her profile reflects excellence, leadership, and a forward-looking vision in biomedical science. Dr. Cerchia’s continued efforts make her a strong candidate for high honors such as the Best Researcher Award and a role model in scientific innovation.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: A novel therapeutic approach targeting PD-L1 in HNSCC and bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells hampers pro-metastatic features in vitro: perspectives for blocking tumor-stroma communication and signaling
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: 2025

  • Title: A novel CD44-targeting aptamer recognizes chemoresistant mesenchymal stem-like TNBC cells and inhibits tumor growth
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Preclinical Toxicological Characterization of Porphyrin-Doped Conjugated Polymer Nanoparticles for Photodynamic Therapy
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Urine-Stable Aptamer-Conjugated Gold Nanorods for the Early Detection of High-Grade Bladder Cancer Residual Disease
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Bispecific aptamer-decorated and light-triggered nanoparticles targeting tumor and stromal cells in breast cancer derived organoids: implications for precision phototherapies
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 11

  • Title: Ferroptosis in Cancer: Epigenetic Control and Therapeutic Opportunities
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: Not available
    Citations: 6

  • Title: Subtype Transdifferentiation in Human Cancer: The Power of Tissue Plasticity in Tumor Progression
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: Not available
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Correction to: Bispecific aptamer-decorated and light-triggered nanoparticles targeting tumor and stromal cells in breast cancer derived organoids
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Correction to: Selective Photo-Assisted Eradication of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells through Aptamer Decoration of Doped Conjugated Polymer Nanoparticles
    Authors: Not listed
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 1

Salma Younes | Biomedical Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Salma Younes | Biomedical Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Salma Younes, Qatar University, Qatar

Profile

Google Scholar

Short Bio 🌟

Salma Younes, MSc, MLS (ASCP)CM, is a dedicated and accomplished Ph.D. candidate in Biomedical Science at Qatar University. With an impressive portfolio of 42 peer-reviewed publications and significant contributions to cancer research and biomedical nanotechnology, Salma is committed to advancing healthcare through innovative scientific solutions. Her exceptional academic performance and research efforts have earned her numerous awards and recognitions, marking her as a leader in her field. Currently, she serves as a Graduate Research Assistant while actively mentoring undergraduate and master’s students.

Education 🎓

Salma completed her Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences at Qatar University, graduating with a GPA of 3.65/4.00 in 2020. Her dissertation focused on the anticancer activity of guggulsterone in human leukemic cells. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Sciences from the same institution in 2017, achieving a GPA of 3.10/4.00. Her undergraduate dissertation investigated the effects of iron chelation therapy on zebrafish models.

Experience 💼

Currently in her second year as a Ph.D. candidate and Graduate Research Assistant at Qatar University, Salma has extensive research experience. Previously, she worked as a Research Assistant at the Women’s Wellness and Research Center, Hamad Medical Corporation, and at the Biomedical Research Center of Qatar University. Salma also held a role as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, where she honed her teaching and mentoring skills, and served as a Lab Technologist at Qatar Biobank.

Research Interests 🔬

Salma’s research focuses on biomedical nanotechnology, particularly the synthesis and evaluation of novel 2D diphosphate nanocrystalline hydrogels for applications in skin infections and treatments. She is also deeply involved in cancer research, investigating molecular pathways and therapeutic strategies for chronic myeloid leukemia. Her commitment to public health is reflected in her studies on SARS-CoV-2 antibody responses and vaccine effectiveness.

Awards 🏆

Salma’s exceptional work has garnered several prestigious awards, including the Distinction in Academic Excellence from Qatar University in 2024 and the SIEED Innovation Pre-Incubation Program Award in both 2022 and 2023, where she received substantial funding for her research project. Additionally, she was recognized as the First Place Winner in the Graduate Research Award in Doha and was honored as a “Distinguished Graduate Student” by Qatar University in 2020, showcasing her dedication and impact in the field.

Publications 📚

Salma has contributed significantly to scientific literature, publishing in high-impact journals. Her key publications include:

  1. Younes, S., Nicolai, E., Pieri, M., Bernardini, S., Daas, H., Al-Sadeq, D., Younes, N., Shurrab, F., Nizamuddin, P., Humaira, F., Al-Dewik, N., Yassine, H., Abu-Raddad, L., Ismail, A. and Nasrallah, G. (2024). Follow-Up and Comparative Assessment of SARS-CoV-2 IgA, IgG, Neutralizing, and Total Antibody Responses After BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273 Heterologous Booster Vaccination. Influenza Other Respi Viruses, 18: e13290. DOI: 10.1111/irv.13290.
  2. Younes, S., Nicolai, E., Al-Sadeq, D.W., Younes, N., Al-Dewik, N., Abou-Saleh, H., et al. (2023). Follow-up and comparative assessment of IgG, IgA, and neutralizing antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 between mRNA-vaccinated naïve and unvaccinated naturally infected individuals over 10 months. Journal of Infection and Public Health, 16(11): 1729-1735. DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2023.08.009.
  3. Younes, S., Zein, N., Abunasser, S., Kamareddine, L., Kirienko, N.V., Nasrallah, G.K. (2023). Editorial: Unconventional animal models in infectious disease research, volume II. Front Cell Infect Microbiol, 13: 1225129. DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1225129.
  4. Younes, S., Ismail, M.A., Al-Jurf, R., Ziyada, A., Nasrallah, G.K., Abdulrouf, P.V., et al. (2023). Management of chronic myeloid leukemia: current treatment options, challenges, and future strategies. Hematology, 28(1): 2196866. DOI: 10.1080/16078454.2023.2196866.
  5. Shurbaji, S., Al Tamimi, F., Al Ghwairi, M.M., El Chaar, D., Younes, S., Majdalawieh, A.F., et al. (2023). High-sensitive detection and quantitation of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from capillary/fingerstick and venepuncture whole-blood using fluorescence-based rapid lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA). Heliyon, 9(10): e20589. DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20589.
  6. Al-Dewik, N., Samara, M., Younes, S., Al-Jurf, R., Nasrallah, G.K., Al-Obaidly, S., et al. (2023). Prevalence, predictors, and outcomes of major congenital anomalies: A population-based register study. Sci Rep, 13(1): 2198. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-27935-3.