William Usaquén | Population Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. William Usaquén | Population Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Colombia

Prof. Dr. William Usaquén is a distinguished Colombian researcher specializing in genetics, population studies, and forensic science, with a strong academic foundation that includes advanced degrees in biology and statistics. His career spans decades at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, complemented by international training in forensic genetics. He has led and contributed to numerous impactful research projects, including the genetic characterization of human populations and forensic applications, while actively advancing scientific methodologies. As an educator, he has taught at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, designed specialized courses, and supervised numerous student research projects. His interdisciplinary expertise bridges biology, statistics, anthropology, and forensic science, contributing to both academic knowledge and applied problem-solving. Recognized for excellence in teaching and scientific achievement, Prof. Dr. Usaquén combines rigorous scholarship with a commitment to developing future scientists, making him a respected figure in Colombian and Latin American scientific communities and a strong candidate for prestigious research awards.

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Education

Prof. Dr. William Usaquén holds a Doctorate and Master’s degree in Biological Sciences from the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, where he specialized in genetic population studies. His doctoral and master’s research involved advanced genetic characterization of Colombian populations using microsatellite markers. He also earned a specialization in statistics from the same university, enabling him to apply quantitative methods to genetic and forensic studies. His undergraduate degree in biology laid the foundation for his multidisciplinary approach, integrating molecular biology, genetics, anthropology, and statistics. Over the course of his academic training, he developed expertise in genetic analysis, biostatistics, and population genetics, which has informed his later research in both human and animal populations. Complementing his national education, he undertook international training in forensic genetics at the Institute for Legal Medicine, Innsbruck Medical University, broadening his technical proficiency and exposure to advanced forensic methodologies, further solidifying his expertise in interdisciplinary scientific research.

Experience

Prof. Dr. William Usaquén has built an extensive academic and professional career primarily at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, where he has served as a professor, researcher, and administrator for over two decades. His roles have included teaching undergraduate and postgraduate courses in genetics, experimental design, forensic medicine, and statistical applications in genetics. He has also coordinated specialized courses and training programs, contributing to capacity building in forensic and population genetics. Beyond academia, he has held leadership roles in national forensic science institutions, including coordinating laboratories and developing scientific information systems. His international experience includes training in forensic genetics in Austria, enhancing his global scientific perspective. Throughout his career, he has maintained an active presence in both research and applied science, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world forensic and genetic investigations. His career reflects a sustained commitment to research excellence, education, and the advancement of forensic and population genetics.

Research Focus

Prof. Dr. William Usaquén’s research centers on genetics, with a strong emphasis on population genetics, forensic genetics, and molecular anthropology. His work involves genetic characterization of human populations, particularly in Colombia, using microsatellite markers and other molecular tools. He has investigated genetic diversity, ancestral lineages, and population structures, contributing to understanding human migration, ancestry, and identity. In forensic contexts, his research applies genetic markers to individual identification, paternity testing, and criminal investigations, enhancing accuracy and reliability in legal medicine. Additionally, he has studied genetic traits in animal populations, such as cattle breeds, linking population genetics to agricultural and biodiversity conservation applications. His expertise in statistical genetics allows him to develop and refine methodologies for data analysis in complex genetic studies. By integrating molecular biology, statistics, anthropology, and forensics, his research contributes to both academic knowledge and practical solutions in fields ranging from evolutionary biology to judicial processes.

Award and Honor

Prof. Dr. William Usaquén has received multiple recognitions for his contributions to research, teaching, and forensic science. His awards include the title of Best Teacher in the Specialization in Forensic Medicine program at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, acknowledging his excellence in education. He has been honored for scientific contributions in population genetics and forensic entomology by the Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal y Ciencias Forenses. His research has also earned top placements at national scientific congresses, reflecting the quality and impact of his work. Academic excellence awards further highlight his dedication to rigorous scholarship. These distinctions not only recognize his technical expertise but also his ability to mentor and inspire students and colleagues. His awards demonstrate a career marked by both scientific achievement and a commitment to advancing the quality of education and research in Colombia, reinforcing his reputation as a leading figure in genetics and forensic science.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Succession pattern of cadaverous entomofauna in a semi-rural area of Bogotá, Colombia
    Authors: NA Segura, W Usaquen, MC Sanchez, L Chuaire, F Bello
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 125

  • Title: Entomofauna resource distribution associated with pig cadavers in Bogotá DC
    Authors: NA Segura, MA Bonilla, W Usaquén, F Bello
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 45

  • Title: Allele frecuencies for thirteen SRT’S from to Colombian population: Bogotá and Boyacá
    Authors: BI William Usaquen Martinez, Giraldo A, Mauricio Rey M, Gutierrez A
    Year: 2003
    Citations: 23

  • Title: Paternal portrait of populations of the middle Magdalena River region (Tolima and Huila, Colombia): New insights on the peopling of Central America and northernmost South America
    Authors: LA Alonso Morales, A Casas-Vargas, M Rojas Castro, R Resque, W Usaquén
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 22

  • Title: Rutas migratorias hacia Suramérica y el poblamiento de las cuencas de los ríos Amazonas y Orinoco deducidas a partir de estudios genéticos moleculares
    Authors: G Keyeux, W Usaquén
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 19

  • Title: Y-chromosome and surname analysis of the native islanders of San Andrés and Providencia (Colombia)
    Authors: LA Alonso, W Usaquén
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 17

  • Title: Structure analysis of the La Guajira-Colombia population: a genetic, demographic and genealogical overview
    Authors: MY Rojas, LA Alonso, VA Sarmiento, LY Eljach, W Usaquén
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 16

  • Title: Contrasting the ancestry patterns of three distinct population groups from the northernmost region of South America
    Authors: F Mogollon Olivares, J Moncada Madero, A Casas‐Vargas, W Usaquén
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 15

  • Title: Diversidad del ADN mitocondrial en restos óseos prehispánicos
    Authors: A Casas-Vargas, LM Romero, W Usaquén, S Zea, M Silva, I Briceño
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 15

  • Title: Population genetic analysis of the Brahman cattle (Bos indicus) in Colombia with microsatellite markers
    Authors: MA Novoa, W Usaquén
    Year: 2010
    Citations: 14

  • Title: Ciclo de vida de Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae) como primera especie colonizadora presente en hígado humano realizado en el Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal y …
    Authors: W Usaquen, G Camacho
    Year: 2004
    Citations: 13

  • Title: Curvas de crecimiento y desarrollo de los primeros insectos colonizadores (Diptera: Calliphoridae) sobre cadáveres de cerdo (Sus scrofa) en Bogotá, Colombia
    Authors: N Segura, W Usaquén, M Sánchez, R Narváez, L Chuaire, G Camacho
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 12

  • Title: Next-generation sequencing of host genetics risk factors associated with COVID-19 severity and long-COVID in Colombian population
    Authors: M Angulo-Aguado, JC Carrillo-Martinez, NC Contreras-Bravo, A Morel, W Usaquén
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 11

  • Title: Evaluación de la variabilidad genética con marcadores microsatélites del bocachico
    Authors: D Santacruz, W Usaquen, C Burbano
    Year: 2003
    Citations: 11

  • Title: Ciclo de vida de Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae) como primera especie colonizadora presente en hígado humano realizado en el Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal y …
    Authors: GP Camacho, W Usaquén
    Year: 2004
    Citations: 9

Conclusion

The publication record of Prof. Dr. William Usaquén demonstrates a sustained and diverse research output spanning forensic entomology, population genetics, molecular anthropology, and applied forensic science. His work includes both foundational studies in Colombian population genetics and innovative applications of genetic tools in criminal investigations and biodiversity analysis. Many of his publications have appeared in reputable international journals and have attracted significant citations, with several studies serving as reference points in their respective fields. The breadth of topics—from cadaverous entomofauna succession patterns to next-generation sequencing in COVID-19 research—shows adaptability and a capacity to address both classical and emerging scientific questions. This body of work reflects a researcher with strong interdisciplinary integration, impactful scientific contributions, and a capacity to produce knowledge that informs both academia and applied sectors. Collectively, his publications provide strong evidence of research excellence and international relevance, reinforcing his candidacy for prestigious research recognitions.

ENGİN SELVİ | systematic zoology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. ENGİN SELVİ | systematic zoology | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Ankara University, Turkey.

Dr. Engin Selvi is a Doctor Lecturer at Ankara University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology. Born on May 28, 1984, in Türkiye, he has carved a niche in the field of mammalian cytogenetics and phylogenetics. His academic journey is marked by a dedication to understanding rodent species’ evolutionary biology, with a focus on chromosomal and molecular diversity. With multiple publications in SCI-indexed journals, his research significantly contributes to the understanding of species differentiation, distribution, and genetics within Turkish mammalian fauna. Dr. Selvi’s career reflects a passion for zoology, collaboration across academic disciplines, and active participation in national and international projects. His work stands out for combining classical taxonomy with modern molecular techniques, enriching biodiversity and conservation science. Currently, he continues to teach and mentor students while conducting cutting-edge research, making meaningful impacts on scientific knowledge and biodiversity policy both locally and globally.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Engin Selvi pursued his academic training in biological sciences, culminating in a doctorate degree with a specialization in zoology and cytogenetics. He completed his undergraduate and graduate studies at Ankara University, one of Türkiye’s most prestigious institutions for biological research. During his education, he developed a strong foundation in mammalian biology, evolutionary studies, and molecular phylogenetics. His graduate research emphasized karyological variations and genetic structuring of rodent species endemic to Anatolia, blending fieldwork with laboratory techniques like PCR-RFLP and gene sequencing. Engin Selvi actively participated in collaborative studies, both nationally and internationally, during his academic formation. His academic mentors and co-authors include established names in Turkish zoology, which has helped shape his scientific approach and broadened his exposure to interdisciplinary methods. His commitment to academic rigor and research excellence paved the way for his current role as a Doctor Lecturer at Ankara University.

Professional Experience

Dr. Engin Selvi currently serves as a Doctor Lecturer at Ankara University’s Department of Biology. With years of experience in academia, he has been actively involved in teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in zoology, evolutionary biology, and genetics. His research background spans over a decade, marked by extensive fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and collaborative projects focusing on rodents’ molecular and karyological diversity in Türkiye. He has co-authored numerous scientific publications in indexed journals, working closely with fellow researchers to investigate species-level differences, evolutionary patterns, and genetic markers across rodent populations. His expertise includes mitochondrial DNA analysis, cytogenetic mapping, and shape analysis techniques, showcasing a balance between classical taxonomy and modern molecular biology. Engin Selvi is also engaged in scientific committees, contributing to research development and student mentoring. His academic trajectory reflects a commitment to expanding the scientific understanding of Turkey’s mammalian biodiversity and enhancing educational excellence.

Research Interests

Dr. Engin Selvi’s research focuses on mammalian cytogenetics, phylogeography, and molecular taxonomy, particularly involving rodent species in Turkey. His work integrates both morphological and molecular approaches to understand evolutionary patterns, species differentiation, and chromosomal variations. He has conducted in-depth analyses on species like Arvicola amphibius, Chionomys, Muscardinus, and Meriones tristrami, revealing phylogenetic relationships and genetic divergence through mitochondrial DNA studies and shape analysis. His expertise spans advanced methods like PCR-RFLP, cytochrome b gene sequencing, and ND1 gene analysis, providing comprehensive insights into rodent evolutionary biology. Dr. Selvi’s studies also involve examining subspecies distinctions, geographic distribution patterns, and the role of karyotype variations in species classification. His interdisciplinary approach bridges classical karyology and modern genomics, contributing valuable data to conservation biology, taxonomy, and biogeography. He continues to explore Turkey’s unique rodent biodiversity and aims to enhance species conservation strategies through genetic and ecological research.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Engin Selvi’s scholarly record demonstrates recognition through his contributions to peer-reviewed journals and collaborative projects. His publications in prestigious journals such as Organisms Diversity & Evolution and Acta Zoologica reflect his standing in the scientific community. Being consistently published in SCI and SCIE indexed journals (Q2–Q4) indicates peer acknowledgment of the quality and relevance of his work. Moreover, his recurring collaboration with leading researchers in Turkey and his ongoing role at Ankara University signify institutional recognition. Participation in multi-author studies and consistent involvement in long-term research projects also reflect professional respect and trust in his expertise. His scientific impact, while not marked by traditional awards, lies in his research’s influence on Turkish zoology and mammalian phylogenetics. These academic accomplishments serve as indicators of honor and distinction in the academic realm.

Conclusion

Dr. Engin Selvi is a highly promising and methodologically sound researcher with a clear focus, consistent productivity, and national impact in rodent systematics and molecular ecology. He embodies the qualities of a dedicated academic with a steady track record of scientific contributions. While he would benefit from increased international exposure and leadership in research grants, his current achievements strongly support his candidacy for the Best Researcher Award. With continued growth and strategic outreach, he is not only deserving but likely to rise as a key figure in his research domain.

Publications Top Notes

  • Author: Selvi, E. (co-author in all)

  • Publication A1:

    • Title: Complete mitochondrial genomes of Chionomys roberti and Chionomys nivalis from Turkey

    • Journal: Organisms Diversity & Evolution

    • Year: 2022

    • Citations: Not listed (Web of Science article citation count needed externally)

  • Publication A2:

    • Title: Shape analysis of the first upper molar in Hazel dormouse subspecies

    • Journal: Turkish Journal of Zoology

    • Year: 2023

  • Publication A3:

    • Title: Phylogenetic and phylogeographic relationships of Meriones tristrami

    • Journal: Acta Zoologica Bulgarica

    • Year: 2020

  • Publication A4:

    • Title: Phylogeny of Dryomys using nuclear and organelle genes

    • Journal: Acta Zool. Acad. Sci. Hungaricae

    • Year: 2019

  • Publication A5:

    • Title: Karyotype variation in Arvicola amphibius

    • Journal: Acta Zool. Bulg.

    • Year: 2018

  • Publication A6:

    • Title: Mitochondrial DNA diversity in Arvicola amphibius

    • Journal: Acta Zool. Bulg.

    • Year: 2018

  • Publication A7:

    • Title: Genetic variation in Dryomys using ND1 gene

    • Journal: Mitochondrial DNA Part A

    • Year: 2018

  • Publication A8:

    • Title: Karyology and distribution of Nannospalax leucodon

    • Journal: Acta Zool. Bulg.

    • Year: 2010

Zhong Zhi | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhong Zhi | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Investigator, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, China

Dr. Zhong Zhi 👨‍🔬 is an accomplished Investigator and Doctoral Supervisor specializing in lactic acid bacteria genomics and bioinformatics. He has published 30 papers in reputable academic journals, including Microbiome, Journal of Dairy Science, LWT – Food Science and Technology, and Food Microbiology. Among these, 15 are SCI-indexed papers, with a remarkable impact factor of 15.5 for his highest-cited work. Dr. Zhong has successfully led multiple national and provincial research projects, contributing significantly to the development and utilization of lactic acid bacteria resources. He was awarded the “Shennong Chinese Agricultural Science and Technology Award – Excellent Innovation Team Award” in 2017 and recognized for his excellent doctoral dissertation in 2019. 📚

Publication Profile.

Scopus

Education

Dr. Zhong Zhi holds a Ph.D. in a relevant field, showcasing a robust academic background that supports his extensive research endeavors in the realm of microbiology and food science. His educational journey has been pivotal in shaping his expertise in lactic acid bacteria and their applications.

Experience

With significant experience in research and academia, Dr. Zhong has presided over several national scientific research projects, including those funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China. His role as a doctoral supervisor has allowed him to mentor and guide numerous students, fostering the next generation of scientists in microbiology and bioinformatics. His industrial and academic collaborations have enhanced the practical applications of his research.

Research Interests

Dr. Zhong’s primary research interests lie in lactic acid bacteria genomics and bioinformatics. He focuses on exploring the genetic characteristics and potential applications of these microorganisms in food science and technology. His work aims to harness the benefits of lactic acid bacteria in health and nutrition, addressing contemporary challenges in food safety and quality.

Awards

Dr. Zhong Zhi has received numerous accolades for his contributions to agricultural science and research innovation, including: 2017: Shennong Chinese Agricultural Science and Technology Award – Excellent Innovation Team Award (14th finisher) 🏆 2019: Excellent Doctoral Dissertation Award, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region 🎓

Publications

Zhi Zhong†, Hai Tang†, Tingting Shen, Xinwei Ma, Feiyan Zhao, Lai Yu Kwok, Zhihong Sun, Menghe Bilige, Heping Zhang*. Bifdobacterium animalis subsp. lactis Probio-M8 undergoes host adaptive evolution by glcU mutation and translocates to the infant’s gut via oral-/entero-mammary routes through lactation. Microbiome, 2022. (IF: 16.837)

Hai Tang#, Zhi Zhong#, Jingqing Hou, Lijun You, Zhixin Zhao, Lai-Yu Kwok, Menghe Bilige*. Metagenomic analysis revealed the potential of lactic acid bacteria in improving natural saline-alkali land. International Microbiology, 2024.

Jingda Lu, Yue Jiao, Mengyuan Zhu, Yaru Sun, Lai-Yu Kwok, Zhi Zhong*. Fermented soy milk enhances survival and acid tolerance of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LP-6 in an in vitro human stomach digestion system. LWT – Food Science and Technology, 2024.

Zhi Zhong, Tingting Shen, Jingda Lu, Xinwei Ma, Mengyuan Zhu, Lai-Yu Kwok, Wenjun Liu*. A genome-wide association study of antibiotic resistance in dairy products-associated Enterococcus faecium isolates. LWT – Food Science and Technology, 2023.

Jingda Lu, Tingting Shen, Yixin Zhang, Xinwei Ma, Sheng Xu, Sameh Awad, Muying Du, Zhi Zhong*. Safety assessment of Enterococcus lactis based on comparative genomics and phenotypic analysis. Frontiers in Microbiology, 2023.