Anish Maskey | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Dr. Anish Maskey | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Fellow at New York Medical College, United States

Dr. Anish R. Maskey is a dedicated postdoctoral fellow at the Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology at New York Medical College, with a specialized focus on allergy, immunology, and infectious diseases. With an in-depth understanding of translational research, he integrates bench-to-bedside approaches, concentrating on biomarker discovery, immune response profiling, and therapeutic evaluation for allergic and inflammatory conditions. Over the past six years, he has built a strong scientific portfolio in both academic and clinical research settings, with active involvement in designing, executing, and analyzing preclinical studies using in-vitro systems, human samples, and murine models. His collaborative nature and leadership skills are evident through his mentorship of over 25 trainees, active role in multi-institutional conferences, and contribution to peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Maskey’s publication record includes multiple first-author and collaborative studies in prominent journals like Frontiers in Allergy, Cells, and The Journal of Inflammation Research. His scientific acumen is matched by his commitment to education and community-building in science. As a member of multiple professional societies and editorial boards, he continues to shape the future of immunological research while fostering international collaboration and integrative medical approaches. His work represents a blend of scientific excellence, innovation, and societal impact.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Anish R. Maskey holds a Ph.D. in Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology from New York Medical College, which he earned in 2023 with a commendable CGPA of 3.75/4. His doctoral research was centered on discovering small molecule compounds—particularly from Traditional Chinese Medicine—as novel therapeutics for eosinophilic esophagitis. This body of work laid the foundation for his expertise in allergic diseases, immunomodulation, and translational medicine. Prior to his Ph.D., Dr. Maskey completed his Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Technology from the Institute of Medicine in Kathmandu, Nepal, graduating in 2016 with a strong academic record of 72%. His educational journey reflects a continual evolution from clinical laboratory sciences to cutting-edge immunological research, underpinned by rigorous training in microbiology, molecular biology, and clinical diagnostics. Beyond formal education, he has also actively pursued professional development through certifications in clinical trial ethics, laboratory safety, peer reviewing, and biomedical research compliance under platforms such as CITI and Elsevier. These educational milestones not only showcase Dr. Maskey’s technical proficiency but also his commitment to lifelong learning, scientific integrity, and the ethical conduct of human and animal research. His academic background enables him to operate seamlessly at the intersection of clinical science and laboratory innovation.

Professional Experience

Dr. Maskey currently serves as a postdoctoral fellow at New York Medical College, where he works under the mentorship of Dr. Xiu-Min Li on multiple NIH-funded projects related to allergic diseases, microbiome therapy, and drug discovery. He is the Co-Investigator or Co-Principal Investigator on several high-impact translational research studies involving human clinical samples and murine models. His work explores the therapeutic efficacy of natural compounds on conditions such as eczema, food allergies, eosinophilic esophagitis, and antibiotic-resistant infections. Previously, during his Ph.D. candidacy (2018–2023), he led key investigations on chronic inflammatory diseases and mentored junior researchers while also teaching advanced immunology and microbiology courses. Dr. Maskey has authored or co-authored over 15 peer-reviewed publications and actively contributes as an editorial board member and peer reviewer for journals such as Frontiers in Allergy and The FASEB Journal. In his leadership roles, he has managed research teams, coordinated research conferences, and overseen protocol development and compliance for IRB and IACUC projects. His professional experience reflects a dynamic integration of teaching, research, mentorship, and administration, underlining his preparedness for independent academic or industry-based scientific leadership roles in immunology, microbiology, and translational medicine.

Research Interests

Dr. Anish R. Maskey’s research interests span allergy and immunology, host-pathogen interactions, microbiome-based therapy, and immune modulation using natural compounds. His primary focus lies in discovering and validating biomarkers for allergic diseases, including food allergies, eczema, eosinophilic esophagitis, and drug-resistant infections. Dr. Maskey is particularly interested in translational and integrative approaches to treating chronic inflammation by bridging clinical medicine with basic science. Through his ongoing work on immune profiling, he explores cytokine signaling, IgE-mediated hypersensitivity, mast cell activation, and epigenetic regulation of Th2 responses. He has established various murine models for food allergies, eczema, and Staphylococcus aureus infections to test the efficacy and mechanisms of plant-based therapeutics like berberine and ganoderic acid. Additionally, he investigates the skin and gut microbiomes’ roles in disease progression and recovery, utilizing both in-vivo and ex-vivo models. His interest also extends to nanoparticle drug delivery and immune memory formation. Dr. Maskey’s ultimate goal is to facilitate the development of safer, non-steroidal treatment options that are effective, personalized, and rooted in natural product pharmacology. His work contributes meaningfully to both the scientific community and clinical practice, offering promising alternatives for managing and preventing allergic and inflammatory disorders.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Anish R. Maskey has been the recipient of numerous prestigious awards and honors recognizing his academic excellence, innovative research, and impactful scientific contributions. He has won multiple travel scholarships from the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) from 2022 to 2025, allowing him to present his research at major national conferences. In 2023, he received the APFED travel grant and earned the Outstanding Abstract Award at Touro Research Day in 2024. He also secured second place for oral abstract presentation at the 1st PMI Conference at New York Medical College and was a runner-up in the ASBMB’s “Science in a Flash” competition. His publications have gained recognition as Top Cited and Top Downloaded articles by WILEY and The FASEB Journal. Furthermore, Dr. Maskey has been appointed as an Editorial Board Member for the International Journal of Infectious Diseases and Therapy and The FASEB Journal’s Early Career Researcher Board. His service as a peer reviewer for journals under Cell Press, Frontiers, MDPI, and Dove Medical Press further underscores his credibility and scientific leadership. These accolades collectively affirm his rising influence in the fields of immunology and translational medicine.

Conclusion

Dr. Anish R. Maskey is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award, especially in the category of early-career/postdoctoral researchers. His contributions to the fields of immunology and infectious diseases are substantive, innovative, and multidisciplinary. His leadership in research, commitment to mentoring, and active scholarly engagement make him exceptionally deserving of recognition.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: A small molecule compound berberine as an orally active therapeutic candidate against COVID‐19 and SARS
    First Author: Wang ZZ
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 68

  • Title: Cytochrome P450 3A4 suppression by epimedium and kaempferol leads to synergistic anti-inflammatory effect with corticosteroid
    First Author: Li K
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 12

  • Title: Inhibition of pathologic immunoglobulin E in food allergy by EBF-2 and berberine with immunometabolism regulation
    First Author: Yang N
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 11

  • Title: Induction of severe eosinophilic esophagitis and multi-organ inflammation by airborne allergens
    First Author: Maskey A
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 9

  • Title: Formononetin inhibits B cell-IgE production by regulating XBP-1
    First Author: Yang N
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 7

  • Title: Anti-IgE effect of arctigenin on food allergy with a distinct transcriptome profile
    First Author: Cao M
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 6

  • Title: Computational analysis of 7,4’-Dihydroxyflavone on eosinophilic esophagitis
    First Author: Maskey AR
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 3

  • Title: Efficacy of Ganoderic Acid C1 on corticosteroid-resistant neutrophilic airway inflammation
    First Author: Wang ZZ
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Berberine inhibits inflammatory response by S. aureus in atopic eczema
    First Author: Maskey AR
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Potency and chemical consistency of FAHF-2 for food allergy treatment
    First Author: Maskey A
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 2

  • Title: The gut microbiome and cross-reactivity of food allergens
    First Author: Taico Oliva C
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Preclinical models of atopic dermatitis for therapeutic investigations
    First Author: Maskey AR
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Berberine’s potential in attenuating S. aureus-induced inflammation
    First Author: Kwan M
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

  • Title: 7,4 Dihydroxy Flavone for treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis
    First Author: Maskey AR
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Biomarkers and neurobiomarkers in allergic contact dermatitis
    First Author: Sasaki A
    Year: 2025
    Citations: Not listed

  • Title: Roles of bitter and sweet taste receptors in food allergy
    First Author: Xian M
    Year: 2025
    Citations: Not listed

 

Mohamed-Zakaria Assani | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Dr. Mohamed-Zakaria Assani | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

PhD Student at University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Romania

Mohamed-Zakaria Assani is a dedicated and academically accomplished medical professional from Craiova, Romania. A graduate of the University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova with a Doctor of Medicine degree, he is currently pursuing a PhD in Immunology, focusing on the implications of inflammation and atherosclerosis in chronic kidney disease. His academic excellence is reflected in his high GPAs and his master’s dissertation on population exposure to ionizing radiation. Mohamed-Zakaria has demonstrated leadership and community engagement through roles such as Project Coordinator for ONCOHELP and active volunteer work within student medical societies. He has participated in numerous congresses and clinical workshops, enhancing his practical and theoretical knowledge. Proficient in English and skilled in digital tools, he is well-equipped for research communication and collaboration. With a strong foundation in clinical research and a growing academic profile, he stands out as a promising early-career researcher committed to advancing medical science.

Professional Profile

ORCID Profile

Education

Mohamed-Zakaria Assani has an impressive academic background rooted in medical sciences. He graduated with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from the University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, achieving an outstanding overall GPA of 9.69 and a dissertation exam GPA of 9.92. His academic excellence dates back to high school, where he earned a Baccalaureate GPA of 9.50 from the National College Frații Buzești in Craiova. Currently, he is pursuing a PhD in Immunology at the same university, where his research explores the interplay between inflammation, atherosclerosis, and chronic kidney disease—an area of critical importance in modern healthcare. His educational journey demonstrates consistent high performance, intellectual curiosity, and a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of medicine. He has also earned English language certifications (C1 level), further supporting his ability to engage with international research communities and access global academic resources effectively.

Professional Experience

Mohamed-Zakaria Assani has gained practical medical and leadership experience through a series of impactful roles. Currently, he serves as a resident in Laboratory Medicine at Filantropia Clinical Hospital and the Clinical Hospital of Neuropsychiatry in Craiova. These roles have enabled him to develop core diagnostic and analytical skills essential for laboratory-based and clinical research. Earlier in his academic journey, he demonstrated initiative and community engagement as a project coordinator for ONCOHELP within SSM Craiova and as a volunteer for various student-led projects, including TRANSMED and university-wide events such as the Freshman Ball. His participation in medical workshops and congresses—like the Annual Congress of Surgery for Students and CIMSC—further underscores his dedication to continuous professional development. These experiences have not only broadened his clinical perspective but also allowed him to build strong interpersonal and organizational skills, both crucial for team-based medical research and healthcare practice.

Research Interest

Mohamed-Zakaria Assani’s research interests lie at the intersection of immunology, cardiovascular pathology, and nephrology, focusing specifically on how inflammation and atherosclerosis contribute to chronic kidney disease (CKD). This multidisciplinary approach highlights his commitment to understanding complex disease mechanisms and improving patient outcomes through evidence-based research. His PhD work delves into the cellular and molecular pathways that drive disease progression in CKD, a pressing global health challenge. Additionally, his master’s dissertation explored population exposure to ionizing radiation from high-performance radiological investigations, demonstrating his early concern for public health and medical safety. Mohamed-Zakaria is driven by a desire to bridge laboratory findings with clinical applications, and his work holds the potential to inform diagnostic tools, therapeutic strategies, and preventive measures. His research aims not only to contribute new knowledge to the scientific community but also to enhance clinical practice, particularly in the management of chronic and systemic diseases.

Award and Honor

Although specific formal awards are not listed, Mohamed-Zakaria Assani’s academic record and extracurricular achievements position him as a strong candidate for recognition in research and leadership. Graduating with distinction from both high school and medical school, and earning high scores on his dissertation, he has consistently demonstrated academic excellence. His selection as a Project Coordinator within SSM Craiova for the ONCOHELP initiative, along with his active participation in prestigious student congresses such as CIMSC and the Annual Congress of Surgery, reflects peer and institutional acknowledgment of his capabilities. He also holds English proficiency certifications (Cambridge C1), further validating his readiness for international academic participation. His combination of scholarly commitment, volunteer service, and leadership roles speaks to a well-rounded and motivated individual deserving of early-career honors, such as young researcher awards or medical innovation fellowships. His profile illustrates promise and preparedness for future accolades in the field of medical research.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mohamed-Zakaria Assani is a highly motivated and capable early-career medical researcher with a commendable blend of academic achievement, clinical experience, and leadership involvement. His educational accomplishments and current doctoral work in immunology place him at the forefront of critical research on chronic kidney disease. He has proactively contributed to both academic and volunteer communities, showing a strong sense of responsibility and dedication to healthcare. While he would benefit from expanding his research portfolio through publications and international collaborations, his foundational strengths are undeniable. With a clear focus on impactful, multidisciplinary research and a history of academic excellence, he is exceptionally well-positioned to contribute to the future of medical science. He is a promising candidate for research awards and a strong example of emerging talent in laboratory and clinical medicine. His continued progress will no doubt lead to significant contributions in the medical and scientific fields.

Publications Top Notes

1. Association Between Pentraxins and Obesity in Prediabetes and Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients

  • Authors: Roxana-Viorela Ahrițculesei, Lidia Boldeanu, Daniel Cosmin Caragea, Mihaela Vladu, Diana Clenciu, Adina Mitrea, Anca Marilena Ungureanu, Constantin Cristian Văduva, Anda Lorena Dijmărescu, Alin Iulian Silviu Popescu, et al.

  • Year: 2025

  • Citation: Ahrițculesei, R.-V., Boldeanu, L., Caragea, D. C., Vladu, M., Clenciu, D., Mitrea, A., Ungureanu, A. M., Văduva, C. C., Dijmărescu, A. L., Popescu, A. I. S., et al. (2025). Association Between Pentraxins and Obesity in Prediabetes and Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 26(8), 3661. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26083661

2. Potential Association Between Atherogenic Coefficient, Prognostic Nutritional Index, and Various Obesity Indices in Diabetic Nephropathy

  • Authors: Mohamed-Zakaria Assani, Marius Bogdan Novac, Anda Lorena Dijmărescu, Constantin Cristian Văduva, Mihaela Vladu, Diana Clenciu, Adina Mitrea, Roxana-Viorela Ahrițculesei, Alexandra-Ștefania Stroe-Ionescu, Alexandru-Dan Assani, et al.

  • Year: 2025

  • Citation: Assani, M.-Z., Novac, M. B., Dijmărescu, A. L., Văduva, C. C., Vladu, M., Clenciu, D., Mitrea, A., Ahrițculesei, R.-V., Stroe-Ionescu, A.-Ș., Assani, A.-D., et al. (2025). Potential Association Between Atherogenic Coefficient, Prognostic Nutritional Index, and Various Obesity Indices in Diabetic Nephropathy. Nutrients, 17(8), 1339. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17081339

3. Radiation Exposure of Patients Undergoing Multiple-Slice CT Scans in Romania

  • Authors: I. Prejbeanu, M. Z. Assani, F. Niculescu, L. A. Prunariu, R. G. Prejbeanu

  • Year: 2024

  • Citation: Prejbeanu, I., Assani, M. Z., Niculescu, F., Prunariu, L. A., & Prejbeanu, R. G. (2024). Radiation Exposure of Patients Undergoing Multiple-Slice CT Scans in Romania. European Journal of Public Health, 34(Supplement 1), ckae144.2140. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurpub/ckae144.2140