Sana Awan | Cell and Molecular Biology | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Sana Awan | Cell and Molecular Biology | Women Researcher Award

Associate Professor at University of Lahore | Pakistan

Dr. Sana Javaid Awan is a distinguished researcher and academic in the field of molecular biology and biotechnology, with expertise in stem cell therapy, liver regeneration, nanotechnology, and advanced molecular techniques. She has earned recognition as an HEC-approved Ph.D. supervisor and has guided numerous PhD, MPhil, and undergraduate research students, reflecting her dedication to mentorship and capacity building in science. Currently serving as an Associate Professor, she has also contributed significantly through leadership roles on academic councils, curriculum committees, and journal management boards, where she has helped shape both research and education. Her research productivity is evident from her publications, citation record, and involvement in projects with both academic and industrial applications, highlighting her ability to bridge fundamental science with practical innovation. With her strong academic background, impactful research contributions, and commitment to advancing women in science, Dr. Awan stands out as an exemplary candidate for recognition in research excellence.

Professional Profile 

Google Scholar | Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile 

Education

Dr. Sana Javaid Awan holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from the Centre of Excellence in Molecular Biology, Lahore, where her doctoral research focused on the potential of preconditioned mesenchymal stem cells for alleviating liver fibrosis. Her academic training provided her with expertise in stem cell therapy, molecular genetics, biochemistry, and advanced cellular techniques. Prior to her doctorate, she completed her undergraduate degree in Zoology with a strong emphasis on molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry from the University of the Punjab. This strong educational foundation laid the groundwork for her future research in regenerative medicine, nanotechnology, and molecular diagnostics. Through her academic journey, she developed skills in a wide range of laboratory methods, from molecular docking and real-time PCR to stem cell culturing and protein networking, preparing her to contribute to both theoretical and applied aspects of biomedical sciences. Her education reflects a well-rounded progression toward impactful research and teaching excellence.

Experience

Dr. Sana Javaid Awan has built a distinguished career through a combination of academic, research, and industry roles. Currently serving as an Associate Professor at the University of Lahore, she has also worked as a senior scientist and consultant with organizations in both Pakistan and the United Kingdom, contributing to biomedical research and development. Her professional journey includes appointments as Lecturer, Assistant Professor, and Associate Professor, where she not only taught core subjects such as molecular biology, bioinformatics, and biotechnology but also took on significant responsibilities in examination management, curriculum design, and academic council membership. Alongside academia, she has held leadership positions in research-driven industries, including project direction and consultancy roles in biotechnology and skincare innovation. Her extensive experience demonstrates her ability to integrate academic knowledge with applied research, making valuable contributions to both scientific advancement and practical healthcare solutions. She has consistently balanced teaching, mentoring, and research leadership with administrative excellence.

Research Focus

The central theme of Dr. Sana Javaid Awan’s research lies in molecular biology and biotechnology, with a strong emphasis on regenerative medicine, nanotechnology, and therapeutic applications of stem cells. Her doctoral work pioneered the potential of mesenchymal stem cells for liver regeneration, a focus she continues to expand through studies on tissue repair, nanostructured lipid carriers, and novel bioactive compounds for disease treatment. She is skilled in diverse molecular and cellular techniques, including real-time PCR, exosome isolation, protein networking, molecular docking, and advanced imaging methods. Her projects often bridge fundamental science with translational medicine, investigating applications ranging from antibacterial therapies and cancer screening systems to the use of natural compounds in disease management. She has also supervised numerous PhD and MPhil students in areas such as drug development, bio-remediation, and molecular diagnostics. Her research not only advances academic knowledge but also addresses pressing health challenges, making her work highly relevant and impactful.

Award and Honor

Dr. Sana Javaid Awan has received recognition for her research, teaching, and leadership contributions throughout her academic and professional career. As an HEC-approved Ph.D. supervisor, she holds a distinguished position in Pakistan’s higher education landscape, reflecting trust in her ability to guide advanced research. She was awarded prestigious indigenous research scholarships during her academic journey, which supported her doctoral and postdoctoral-level studies. Her scholarly impact is also visible through her research indices, including citations and international recognition of her publications. Beyond academia, she has been entrusted with leadership roles such as project director, journal committee in-charge, and member of academic and curriculum councils, further highlighting her professional credibility. By supervising a significant number of graduate students and contributing to both national and international research projects, she has built a strong profile as a mentor and innovator. These honors and recognitions collectively underline her suitability for awards celebrating women researchers.

Publication Top Notes

    • Title: Enhanced hepatic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells after pretreatment with injured liver tissue
      Authors: S Mohsin, S Shams, GA Nasir, M Khan, SJ Awan, SN Khan, S Riazuddin
      Year: 2011
      Citations: 91

    • Title: Bi-layered α-tocopherol acetate loaded membranes for potential wound healing and skin regeneration
      Authors: S Zahid, H Khalid, F Ikram, H Iqbal, M Samie, L Shahzadi, AT Shah, M Yar, SJ Awan, …
      Year: 2019
      Citations: 71

    • Title: The effect of gestational diabetes on proliferation capacity and viability of human umbilical cord-derived stromal cells
      Authors: N Wajid, R Naseem, SS Anwar, SJ Awan, M Ali, S Javed, F Ali
      Year: 2015
      Citations: 65

    • Title: In-vitro anti-proliferative, apoptotic and antioxidative activities of medicinal herb Kalonji (Nigella sativa)
      Authors: T Maqbool, SJ Awan, S Malik, F Hadi, S Shehzadi, K Tariq
      Year: 2019
      Citations: 50

    • Title: Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of (Piperidin-1-yl) quinolin-3-yl) methylene) hydrazinecarbothioamides as Potent Inhibitors of Cholinesterases: A Biochemical and In silico Approach
      Authors: R Munir, M Zia-ur-Rehman, S Murtaza, S Zaib, N Javid, SJ Awan, …
      Year: 2021
      Citations: 33

    • Title: Detection of antibacterial activities of Miswak, Kalonji and Aloe vera against oral pathogens & anti-proliferative activity against cancer cell line
      Authors: S Amjed, K Junaid, J Jafar, T Amjad, W Maqsood, N Mukhtar, K Tariq, SJ Awan, …
      Year: 2017
      Citations: 32

    • Title: Human neonatal stem cell‐derived skin substitute improves healing of severe burn wounds in a rat model
      Authors: R Mahmood, A Mehmood, MS Choudhery, SJ Awan, SN Khan, …
      Year: 2019
      Citations: 30

    • Title: Delonix regia a folklore remedy for diabetes; attenuates oxidative stress and modulates type II diabetes mellitus
      Authors: D Khan, A Sharif, M Zafar, B Akhtar, MF Akhtar, S Awan
      Year: 2020
      Citations: 26

    • Title: Anti-Inflammatory and Anticancer Activity of Pteris cretica Whole Plant Extracts
      Authors: K Kiran, F Saleem, S Awan, S Ahmad, S Ahmad, MA Arshad Malik, …
      Year: 2018
      Citations: 25

    • Title: In vivo and in vitro toxicity profile of tetrabutylammonium bromide and alcohol-based deep eutectic solvents
      Authors: S Inayat, SR Ahmad, SJ Awan, M Nawshad, Q Ali
      Year: 2023
      Citations: 24

    • Title: In vitro differentiated hepatic oval‐like cells enhance hepatic regeneration in CCl4‐induced hepatic injury
      Authors: SJ Awan, MT Baig, F Yaqub, A Tayyeb, G Ali
      Year: 2017
      Citations: 24

    • Title: Antimicrobial, antioxidant, and toxicity assessment of Ammonium-Based deep eutectic solvents with formic acid and butyric acid hydrogen bond donors
      Authors: S Inayat, SR Ahmad, SJ Awan, N Muhammad
      Year: 2023
      Citations: 17

    • Title: Serum from CCl4-induced acute rat injury model induces differentiation of ADSCs towards hepatic cells and reduces liver fibrosis
      Authors: MT Baig, G Ali, SJ Awan, U Shehzad, A Mehmood, S Mohsin, SN Khan, …
      Year: 2017
      Citations: 17

    • Title: Guar gum in therapeutics: a succinct exploration
      Authors: SJ Awan, Z Fatima, S Kamran, AS Khan, T Fatima, S Imran, M Shabbir, …
      Year: 2024
      Citations: 15

    • Title: Hepato-protective role of itraconazole mediated cytochrome p450 pathway inhibition in liver fibrosis
      Authors: F Hadi, SJ Awan, A Tayyeb, T Maqbool, S Shehzadi, S Malik, H Kausar, …
      Year: 2020
      Citations: 10

Conclusion

Dr. Sana Javaid Awan’s research contributions reflect a strong focus on molecular biology, stem cell therapy, liver regeneration, nanotechnology, and therapeutic applications of natural compounds. Her publications span impactful areas including regenerative medicine, antimicrobial resistance, wound healing, cancer biology, and drug development. With several highly cited works and a steady output in reputable journals, her research demonstrates both depth and breadth, contributing significantly to translational and applied sciences. The balance between fundamental cellular studies and practical biomedical applications highlights her ability to bridge laboratory innovations with real-world healthcare solutions. Overall, her scholarly work establishes her as a dedicated and impactful researcher whose contributions continue to advance the frontiers of molecular biology and biomedical sciences.

Irving Lara | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Irving Lara | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Research assistant at Centro de Investigación Biomédica de Occidente, Mexico

Dr. Irving Jair Lara Navarro is a Mexican researcher specializing in genetics and molecular biology. Born on December 9, 1990, in Guadalajara, Jalisco, he has dedicated his career to advancing genetic research, particularly in gene therapy. His work integrates molecular diagnostics, biotechnology, and clinical applications, making significant contributions to biomedical sciences. With a passion for teaching and research, he has been actively involved in academia and laboratory settings, working to bridge the gap between fundamental genetics and medical applications. Dr. Lara Navarro has played a key role in developing innovative approaches for genetic modification, particularly using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. His expertise extends to epidemiological surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, and academic instruction. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with various research institutions, healthcare professionals, and academic institutions, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to genetics. His commitment to scientific excellence and education continues to drive his contributions to the field.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Irving Jair Lara Navarro pursued his academic journey in biological sciences, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Guadalajara (CUCBA) in 2014. His undergraduate research focused on optimizing transduction conditions in keratinocytes using lentiviral vectors. Continuing his passion for genetics, he pursued a Doctorate in Human Genetics at the University of Guadalajara (CUCS), completing it in 2024. His doctoral research revolved around gene therapy using CRISPR/Cas9 technology for modifying the F9 gene in human mesenchymal cells, aiming to enhance the production of Factor IX, a crucial protein for blood clotting. This work has potential therapeutic applications, particularly in treating hemophilia. His academic training has provided him with expertise in molecular biology, genetic engineering, and biomedical research. His strong foundation in experimental design and genetic modifications has positioned him as a key researcher in the field of gene therapy and molecular medicine.

Professional Experience

Dr. Lara Navarro has gained extensive professional experience in research and academia. From 2020 to 2021, he worked as a Research Technician at the Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS), contributing to nucleic acid extraction and molecular diagnostics in epidemiological surveillance. He later joined Laboratorio Biodiagnóstica in 2021, where he worked as a Molecular Biology Laboratory Technician, managing laboratory operations, coordinating research teams, and implementing molecular analysis techniques. In addition to his laboratory roles, he has been actively involved in teaching. He served as an Adjunct Professor at Tecmilenio University (Zapopan) from 2021 to 2022, teaching basic sciences at the high school level. Since 2023, he has been a faculty member at Universidad Guadalajara Lamar, where he teaches genetics and biomolecular sciences to medical students. His combined experience in laboratory research and academia has strengthened his ability to contribute to both scientific discovery and education.

Research Interests

Dr. Lara Navarro’s primary research interests lie in genetic engineering, molecular biology, and gene therapy. His doctoral research on CRISPR/Cas9-based gene modification for Factor IX production highlights his focus on therapeutic applications of molecular genetics. He is particularly interested in genetic therapies for hematological disorders, biotechnology applications in medicine, and the development of precision medicine approaches. His expertise in nucleic acid manipulation and viral vector systems contributes to advancements in personalized genetic treatments. Additionally, he has a keen interest in molecular diagnostics and epidemiological surveillance, particularly in developing genetic testing methodologies for disease prevention and treatment. As a researcher, he aims to explore the potential of stem cell therapy, regenerative medicine, and CRISPR-based genome editing for clinical applications. His work aims to bridge the gap between fundamental genetic research and practical medical solutions, contributing to cutting-edge advancements in biomedical sciences.

Awards and Honors

While Dr. Lara Navarro has demonstrated exceptional expertise in genetics and molecular biology, his professional journey is still evolving in terms of formal recognitions. His research in CRISPR/Cas9 gene therapy holds significant potential for future awards and funding opportunities. As an emerging scientist, he has been recognized for his contributions to molecular diagnostics and epidemiological research at IMSS, where he played a crucial role in laboratory procedures during the COVID-19 pandemic. His involvement in academia and research has earned him respect within the scientific and medical communities. While he may not yet have received high-profile research awards, his work on genetic modifications and biomedical applications positions him as a strong candidate for future honors in genetics, biotechnology, and medical research. With continued research output and publications, he is likely to receive formal recognition for his contributions to the field of genetic engineering and molecular medicine.

Conclusion

Dr. Irving Jair Lara Navarro has a strong foundation in genetics, molecular biology, and research methodologies, making him a promising candidate. However, to be a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award, he should focus on publishing in high-impact journals, securing research funding, and increasing international recognition. If these aspects are addressed, he would be a more competitive candidate for the award.

Publications Top Noted

  • CRISPR/Cas9 Edition of the F9 Gene in Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Hemophilia B Therapy
    • Authors: Lara-Navarro, I.J., Jave-Suárez, L.F., Marchal, J.A., Jaloma-Cruz, A.R.
    • Year: 2024
    • Journal: Life
    • Citations: 0
  • Current Therapies in Hemophilia: From Plasma-Derived Factor Modalities to CRISPR/Cas Alternatives
    • Authors: Lara-Navarro, I.J., Jaloma-Cruz, A.R.
    • Year: 2022
    • Journal: Tohoku Journal of Experimental Medicine
    • Citations: 3
  • Genetic analysis for carrier diagnosis in hemophilia A and B in the Mexican population: 25 years of experience
    • Authors: González-Ramos, I.-A., Mantilla-Capacho, J.-M., Luna-Záizar, H., Evangelista-Castro, N., Jaloma-Cruz, A.R.
    • Year: 2020
    • Journal: American Journal of Medical Genetics, Part C: Seminars in Medical Genetics
    • Citations: 5
  • Molecular thrombophilic profile in Mexican patients with idiopathic recurrent pregnancy loss
    • Authors: López-Jiménez, J.J., Porras-Dorantes, Á., Juárez-Vázquez, C.I., Lara-Navarro, I.J., Jaloma-Cruz, A.R.
    • Year: 2016
    • Journal: Genetics and Molecular Research
    • Citations: 19
  • Two girls with a de novo Xq rearrangement of paternal origin: T(X;9)(q24;q12) or rea(X)dup q
    • Authors: Vásquez-Velásquez, A.I., Rivera, H., Castro, A.G., Mendoza-Pérez, P., García-Ortiz, J.E.
    • Year: 2016
    • Journal: Taiwanese Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
    • Citations: 0
  • A further inv dup/del 9p de novo rearrangement. Reappraisal of 25 instances
    • Authors: Lara-Navarro, I.J., Córdova-Fletes, C., García-Ruiz, A., Rivera, H.
    • Year: 2015
    • Journal: Gene Reports
    • Citations: 0