Linlang Hou | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Linlang Hou | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Linlang Hou | Xinjiang Agricultural University | China

Dr. Linlang Hou is an emerging researcher at the College of Life Sciences, Xinjiang Agricultural University, with a focused interest in genetic diversity, functional gene screening, and population genetics of indigenous horse breeds in Xinjiang. Their research has made significant contributions to understanding the genetic background and ancestral relationships among regional horse populations, particularly highlighting the close genetic links between Kyrgyz and Yanqi breeds. This work not only enriches the existing genetic resource pool but also provides valuable insights into the evolutionary history and conservation potential of local livestock. Dr. Hou’s published findings in a recognized international journal reflect both the quality and relevance of their research, demonstrating an ability to address critical scientific questions with precision and rigor. While still in the early stages of their career, they exhibit strong potential for advancing genomic studies and applying genetic knowledge to sustainable breeding and biodiversity preservation. With continued commitment, collaborations, and broader engagement in academic communities, Dr. Hou is well-positioned to contribute to the global scientific discourse on genetic conservation, livestock improvement, and sustainable agriculture, making them a promising candidate for recognition as a dedicated and impactful researcher.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publication

1. L. Hou, A. Sulayman, Y. Zeng, L. Zhou, A. Aimaier, A. Kader, and L. Shi, “Analysis of Genetic Diversity and Race Genetic Structure of Major Horse Breeds in Xinjiang, China,” Animals, journal article, Sep. 2025.

Neda Mollakhalili-eybodi | Agricultural and Biological Sciences| Best Researcher Award

Dr. Neda Mollakhalili-eybodi | Agricultural and Biological Sciences| Best Researcher Award

Associate professor at Shahid sadoughi university of medical science, Iran

Dr. Neda Mollakhalili-Meybodi is an Associate Professor specializing in Food Science and Technology, with academic credentials from Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences. Her research focuses on functional foods, probiotic applications, non-thermal food processing methods, and nutritional enhancement of grains such as quinoa. She has an impressive scholarly output, with over 30 peer-reviewed journal articles and multiple book chapters published by leading academic publishers like Springer and Elsevier. Dr. Mollakhalili-Meybodi’s work is indexed in major scientific databases including Scopus, Google Scholar, and ORCID, reflecting her growing impact in the field. Her studies on cold plasma technology, toxic element mitigation, and food formulation innovations are aligned with global priorities in food safety and public health. She is an active collaborator in interdisciplinary research and contributes meaningfully to both academic knowledge and practical food technology applications. Her achievements and continued research excellence position her as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Google Scholar
Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile 

Education

Dr. Neda Mollakhalili-Meybodi holds a comprehensive academic background in Food Science and Technology, all from Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. She earned her Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in 2012, followed by a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in 2014, and subsequently completed her Ph.D. in 2019. Throughout her academic training, she focused on critical areas within food science, including food safety, functional foods, and food processing technologies. Her doctoral research laid the foundation for her future academic contributions in probiotic formulations and innovative food processing methods. Her consistent academic path reflects a deep commitment to specialization and advancement in food-related sciences. Her education from a leading institution in Iran has equipped her with the theoretical knowledge and technical skills necessary for high-level research and university teaching. This strong academic foundation underpins her professional growth and scholarly achievements in food science and nutrition research.

Professional Experience

Dr. Mollakhalili-Meybodi currently serves as an Associate Professor in Food Science and Technology, where she is engaged in teaching, research, and student supervision. Since earning her Ph.D., she has rapidly advanced in academia through consistent research productivity and meaningful contributions to the scientific community. Her professional responsibilities include curriculum development, supervising graduate theses, peer-reviewing journal articles, and participating in scientific committees. She actively collaborates with multidisciplinary teams on national and international research projects related to food innovation and health. In addition to her academic role, she has co-authored chapters in influential books and contributed to scientific conferences, workshops, and training programs. Her professional presence extends into recognized academic platforms, including Google Scholar, Scopus, and ORCID, where her growing citation record reflects her impact. Her career trajectory showcases not only subject expertise but also a commitment to mentorship and academic leadership in the evolving field of food technology and public health.

Research Interest

Dr. Neda Mollakhalili-Meybodi’s research interests lie at the intersection of food science, nutrition, and biotechnology, with a special focus on functional and probiotic foods, non-thermal food processing, and grain-based innovations. She is particularly recognized for her work on atmospheric pressure cold plasma technology, which she explores for improving the nutritional and safety characteristics of foods such as quinoa and chia seeds. Her studies often examine how novel treatments affect food’s physicochemical, sensory, and antioxidant properties. She has also contributed significantly to research on toxic element reduction, gluten-free bread formulations, and the use of dietary fibers such as inulin. Moreover, she has authored several comprehensive review articles, reflecting her ability to synthesize complex data for the academic and food industry communities. Her research not only advances scientific understanding but also offers real-world applications for food sustainability, safety, and public health improvement, aligning well with global research priorities in food technology.

Award and Honor

While specific awards are not detailed in the available profile, Dr. Mollakhalili-Meybodi’s academic accomplishments reflect a career deserving of recognition. Her prolific publication record, including over 30 indexed articles in reputable journals and several book chapters, indicates high scholarly achievement and consistent contribution to the field of food science. Her work has been featured in journals with significant impact in food safety, nutrition, and processing, signaling peer recognition and subject-matter relevance. The inclusion of her research in Springer and Elsevier publications and her growing citation count in Google Scholar and Scopus further underscore her scientific influence. Additionally, her appointment as Associate Professor shortly after completing her Ph.D. highlights the academic community’s acknowledgment of her expertise and productivity. With continued research excellence and societal relevance, she is well-positioned to receive institutional, national, or international honors in the near future, including awards for innovation, research leadership, and academic distinction in food science.

Conclusion

Dr. Neda Mollakhalili-Meybodi exemplifies academic excellence through her educational background, professional achievements, and impactful research in food science and technology. Her focused work on functional foods, cold plasma treatment, and food safety has contributed substantially to both scientific literature and practical applications in the food industry. As an Associate Professor, she actively engages in teaching, research, and collaboration, shaping the next generation of food scientists while pushing the boundaries of innovation in her field. Her growing recognition through indexed publications, book chapters, and research collaborations positions her as a thought leader in food technology. Although further global recognition and grant leadership would strengthen her portfolio, her current accomplishments strongly support her candidacy for prestigious academic honors. In conclusion, Dr. Mollakhalili-Meybodi is a dedicated, productive, and forward-thinking researcher whose continued contributions are advancing science and improving public health through better food systems and processing technologies.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Sheep milk: Physicochemical characteristics and relevance for functional food development
    Authors: CF Balthazar, TC Pimentel, LL Ferrão, CN Almada, A Santillo, M Albenzio, …
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 531

  • Title: Probiotic viability in yoghurt: A review of influential factors
    Authors: NM Meybodi, AM Mortazavian, M Arab, A Nematollahi
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 159

  • Title: A comprehensive review on yogurt syneresis: Effect of processing conditions and added additives
    Authors: M Arab, M Yousefi, E Khanniri, M Azari, V Ghasemzadeh-Mohammadi, …
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 131

  • Title: The effect of pH and salt on the stability and physicochemical properties of oil-in-water emulsions prepared with gum tragacanth
    Authors: K Abdolmaleki, MA Mohammadifar, R Mohammadi, G Fadavi, …
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 123

  • Title: Phytochemicals in cancer prevention: a review of the evidence
    Authors: N Mollakhalili Meybodi, AM Mortazavian, A Bahadori Monfared, …
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 120

  • Title: Strategies to develop healthier processed cheeses: Reduction of sodium and fat contents and use of prebiotics
    Authors: LL Ferrão, EB Silva, HLA Silva, R Silva, N Mollakhalili, D Granato, …
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 112

  • Title: Effect of atmospheric cold plasma treatment on technological and nutrition functionality of protein in foods
    Authors: N Mollakhalili-Meybodi, M Yousefi, A Nematollahi, N Khorshidian
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 76

  • Title: Acrylamide in bread: a review on formation, health risk assessment, and determination by analytical techniques
    Authors: N Mollakhalili-Meybodi, N Khorshidian, A Nematollahi, M Arab
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 72

  • Title: An overview of the combination of emerging technologies with conventional methods to reduce acrylamide in different food products: Perspectives and future challenges
    Authors: A Nematollahi, NM Meybodi, AM Khaneghah
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 71

  • Title: Mayonnaise main ingredients influence on its structure as an emulsion
    Authors: M Taslikh, N Mollakhalili-Meybodi, AM Alizadeh, MM Mousavi, …
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 65

  • Title: Application of guar (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) gum in food technologies: A review of properties and mechanisms of action
    Authors: S Tahmouzi, H Meftahizadeh, S Eyshi, A Mahmoudzadeh, B Alizadeh, …
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 59

  • Title: Effect of atmospheric pressure cold plasma (ACP) treatment on the technological characteristics of quinoa flour
    Authors: L Zare, N Mollakhalili-Meybodi, H Fallahzadeh, M Arab
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 53

  • Title: Gluten-free bread quality: A review of the improving factors
    Authors: N Mollakhalili Meybodi, MA Mohammadifar, E Feizollahi
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 50

  • Title: Probiotic supplements and food products: Comparison for different targets
    Authors: MN Mollakhalili, AM Mortazavian, S Sohrabvandi, AGDA Cruz, …
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 40

  • Title: Probiotic supplements and food products: a comparative approach
    Authors: N Meybodi, A Mortazavian
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 39

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.

Prof Dr. Rosa María Martínez-Espinosa | Genetics Award | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Rosa María Martínez-Espinosa | Genetics Award | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Rosa María Martínez-Espinosa, University of Alicante, Spain

Rosa María Martínez-Espinosa, in Alicante, Spain, is a distinguished researcher and academic in the field of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. She earned her PhD from the University of Alicante, where she was awarded the Extraordinary Doctorate Award. Her postdoctoral research at the University of East Anglia (2004-2008) was funded by various prestigious organizations, including the European Commission. In 2011, she joined the University of Alicante as a Lecturer and later established the “Applied Biochemistry” research group in 2017. Promoted to Full Professor in 2020, her research focuses on extremophile microorganisms, enzyme characterization, genetic manipulation, carotenoid production, and bioremediation processes, contributing to over 100 scientific publications and numerous national and international presentations. An award-winning educator recognized for her teaching excellence, she has held various academic leadership roles, including Vice-President for International Relations and Development Cooperation. With a robust track record in project evaluation and accreditation, Rosa continues to influence the field through her research and commitment to academic excellence.

Professional Profile:

ORCID

Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award:

Rosa María Martínez-Espinosa is an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her significant contributions to the fields of biochemistry and molecular biology. With over 100 scientific publications in indexed journals, an H-index of 28, and extensive experience in both research and teaching, she has established herself as a leader in her field.

Education:

  • PhD in Biology
    1999 – 2003
    Department of Agrochemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alicante, Spain

    • Received the Extraordinary Doctorate Award.
  • BSc (Hons) in Biology
    1994 – 1998
    Faculty of Science, University of Alicante, Spain.

Work Experience:

  • Vice President for International Relations and Development Cooperation
    December 2020 – Present
    University of Alicante, Spain.
  • Vice-Dean of Postgraduate Programs
    December 2016 – December 2020
    University of Alicante, Spain.

    • Academic coordinator for mobility and training at companies.
  • Academic Coordinator
    December 2013 – November 2016
    Faculty of Sciences, University of Alicante, Spain.

    • Supervised mobility and training at companies.
  • Coordinator of the Degree of Biology
    June 2012 – November 2014
    Faculty of Sciences, University of Alicante, Spain.
  • Assistant Professor
    October 2004 – 2011
    Department of Agrochemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alicante, Spain.

    • Included three research visits (total of 9.5 months) to Professor David J. Richardson’s laboratory, University of East Anglia, UK.
  • Associate Professor
    October 2001 – October 2004
    Department of Agrochemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alicante, Spain.

    • Included a 3-month research visit to Professor David J. Richardson’s laboratory, University of East Anglia, UK.
  • Senior Lecturer
    August 2011 – August 2020
    Department of Agrochemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alicante, Spain.
  • Full Professor
    August 2020 – Present
    Department of Agrochemistry and Biochemistry, University of Alicante, Spain.

Publication top Notes:

The Antitumour Mechanisms of Carotenoids: A Comprehensive Review

Bacterioruberin: Biosynthesis, Antioxidant Activity, and Therapeutic Applications in Cancer and Immune Pathologies

Molecular Advances in Microbial Metabolism 2.0

Controversy over the Use of “Shade Covers” to Avoid Water Evaporation in Water Reservoirs

Halophilic Carotenoids and Breast Cancer: From Salt Marshes to Biomedicine

maria livia ognean | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr.  maria livia ognean | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof., Lucian Blaga University Sibiu, Romania

Dr. Maria Livia Ognean , an accomplished neonatologist from Romania, is an Associate Professor at Universitatea Lucian Blaga din Sibiu and has been affiliated with the Clinical County Emergency Hospital Sibiu since 1994. Known for her expertise in neonatal intensive care (NICU), neonatal ultrasound, nursing, and nutrition, Dr. Ognean has greatly contributed to neonatal healthcare through her research and clinical work.

Publication Profile

scopus

Education

Dr. Ognean holds an MD and PhD in medicine from the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy in Tg. Mures 🎓. Her academic background has been pivotal in her work, supporting her specialized focus on neonatology and neonatal health.

Experience

With over two decades of experience, Dr. Ognean has been deeply involved in neonatology at the Clinical County Emergency Hospital Sibiu 🏥, where she has provided essential care to newborns in critical conditions. Since 2017, she has also served as an Associate Professor, imparting her knowledge to the next generation of medical professionals.

Research Focus

Dr. Ognean’s research primarily revolves around neonatology and neonatal care 💡. Her focus areas include NICU care, neonatal ultrasound, and neonatal nutrition, where she continuously works to improve outcomes for newborns. Her recent studies cover neonatal respiratory conditions, congenital infections, and innovative NICU practices.

Awards and Honours

Dr. Ognean has been recognized for her dedication to neonatology and healthcare advocacy 🏆. She currently serves as the Vice President of the Comisia Neonatologie a Ministerului Sanatatii and the Romanian Association of Neonatology, underscoring her leadership in the field.

Publication Top Notes

ABCA3 c.838C>T (p.Arg280Cys, R280C) and c.697C>T (p.Gln233Ter, Q233X, Q233) as Causative Variants for RDS: A Family Case Study and Literature Review*, published in Biomedicines, 2024, cited by articles on respiratory distress syndrome in neonates.

Effects of Prostaglandin E1 and Balloon Atrial Septostomy on Cerebral Blood Flow and Oxygenation in Newborns Diagnosed with Transposition of the Great Arteries, published in Biomedicines, 2024, cited for advancements in neonatal cardiac care.

Congenital Sepsis with Candida albicans—A Rare Event in the Neonatal Period: Report of Two Cases and Literature Review, published in Microorganisms, 2024, cited in studies of neonatal fungal infections.

Ram Sagar | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ram Sagar | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Research fellow, Johns Hopkins University, United States

Dr. Ram Sagar is a distinguished researcher at the Department of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine. With a robust background in neurology and clinical microbiology, Dr. Sagar specializes in the molecular mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s disease and stroke. His work integrates advanced techniques in stem cell research and extracellular vesicle characterization to explore innovative treatment strategies. 🧬🧠

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

  • Extensive Research Experience: Dr. Ram Sagar has significant research experience in genetics, neurology, and neurobiology, with a particular focus on stroke and Alzheimer’s disease. His work at prestigious institutions like AIIMS, New Delhi, and Johns Hopkins University showcases his dedication and expertise.
  • Publications and Scientific Contributions: He has a strong publication record with articles in high-impact journals such as Molecular Psychiatry, Biomedicines, and Cells. His contributions include co-authored book chapters and research articles that explore innovative approaches to neurodegenerative disorders.
  • Technical Expertise: Dr. Sagar has developed advanced skills in various techniques, including RNA-Seq, lipidomics, 3D brain organoid modeling, and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology. His diverse technical proficiency supports his multidisciplinary approach to neurobiology and precision medicine.
  • Awards and Recognitions: He has received several prestigious awards, including the Young Investigator Award by the World Stroke Congress and multiple international travel grants. These accolades highlight his recognition and credibility in the field.
  • Professional Involvement and Leadership: As an editorial board member and manuscript reviewer for several leading journals, Dr. Sagar demonstrates significant contributions to scientific communities. His involvement in various professional societies further reflects his leadership and commitment to advancing research in his field.

Areas for Improvement:

  • Funding and Grants: Although Dr. Sagar has received several travel grants, there is a limited mention of independently secured research funding or grants as a principal investigator. Securing independent funding is often a critical criterion for research excellence awards.
  • Collaborative Networks: Expanding collaborations with international researchers and institutions beyond his current affiliations could enhance his research impact and global recognition.
  • Longitudinal Research Studies: Engaging in or leading more extensive longitudinal studies could further solidify his contributions to the understanding of neurodegenerative diseases, which could strengthen his candidacy for the award.

Education

Dr. Sagar earned his Ph.D. in Neurology from AIIMS, New Delhi in 2019, with a focus on inflammatory gene polymorphisms and spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage. He holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Microbiology from Punjab Technical University (2012) and a Bachelor’s degree in Zoology and Botany from Dr. RMLAU, Faizabad (2009). 🎓📚

Experience

Dr. Sagar has accumulated extensive research experience, including his current role as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Johns Hopkins University, where he investigates the role of extracellular vesicles in Alzheimer’s disease. Previously, he served as a Senior Research Officer and Junior Research Fellow at AIIMS, contributing to stroke biomarker research and genetic studies. 🧪🔬

Research Focus

Dr. Sagar’s research focuses on the clinical neurobiology of stroke and Alzheimer’s disease, utilizing human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) for disease modeling and drug testing. His interests include extracellular vesicle characterization, transcriptomic and lipidomic profiling, and precision medicine approaches. 🧬🔍

Awards and Honours

Dr. Sagar has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to neurobiology with awards such as the Young Investigator Award from the World Stroke Congress and multiple international travel grants for presenting his research at renowned conferences. 🏅🌍

Publication Top Notes

iPSC-derived hindbrain organoids to evaluate escitalopram oxalate treatment responses targeting neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer’s diseaseMolecular Psychiatry, 2024.

Minimal information for studies of extracellular vesicles (MISEV2023): From basic to advanced approachesJournal of Extracellular Vesicles, 2024.

Generation and Characterization of a Human-Derived and Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC) Line from an Alzheimer’s Disease Patient with Neuropsychiatric SymptomsBiomedicines, 2023.

Excitatory neurons derived from human induced Pluripotent Stem Cells show transcriptomic differences in Alzheimer’s patients from controlsCells, 2023.

Association of SUMOlation Pathway Genes with Stroke in a Genome-wide Association Study in IndiaNeurology, 2021.

Conclusion:

Dr. Ram Sagar is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award due to his extensive research background, impressive publication record, diverse technical expertise, and numerous professional recognitions. His current work on Alzheimer’s disease using innovative methodologies like iPSC-derived neuronal differentiation and 3D brain organoids places him at the forefront of neurobiology research. However, securing more independent funding and expanding collaborative efforts could enhance his profile further. Overall, his strong academic, technical, and professional credentials make him a compelling nominee for the award.