Na Eun Lee | Extracellular Vesicles | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Na Eun Lee | Extracellular Vesicles | Best Researcher Award

Senior Research Scientist | Sungkyunkwan University | South Korea

Ms. Na Eun Lee, Ph.D. Candidate at the Department of Health Sciences and Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University, is an accomplished researcher specializing in regenerative medicine, stem cell biology, and translational health sciences. She holds a Master’s degree in Health Sciences and Technology from Sungkyunkwan University and a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Biochemistry from Konkuk University. Currently pursuing her doctoral studies, she integrates molecular and cellular approaches to advance extracellular vesicle-based therapeutics and skin rejuvenation technologies. Throughout her professional career, Ms. Lee has held senior scientific and leadership positions at prominent biomedical companies and research institutions, where she directed projects in cell therapy development, angiogenesis research, and clinical translation. Her scholarly contributions include publications in high-impact journals such as Cytotherapy, Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, and the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, highlighting innovations in mesenchymal stromal cell biology and nano-encapsulation delivery systems. Renowned for her expertise in extracellular vesicle analysis, molecular diagnostics, and regenerative research, Ms. Lee’s work bridges fundamental science and clinical application. She has been recognized for her research excellence and leadership in biomedical innovation, contributing actively to the advancement of stem cell-based therapeutic strategies and representing a distinguished example of scientific dedication and translational impact in the field of health sciences and technology.

Profiles: ORCID

Featured Publications

1 S. J. Yang, J. K. Son, S. J. Hong, N. E. Lee, D. Y. Shin, S. H. Park, S. B. An, Y. C. Sung, J. B. Park, and H. M. Yang, et al., “Ectopic vascularized bone formation by human umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stromal cells expressing bone morphogenetic factor-2 and endothelial cells,” Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications.

2 N. E. Lee, S. J. Kim, S. J. Yang, S. Y. Joo, H. Park, K. W. Lee, H. M. Yang, and J. B. Park, “Comparative characterization of mesenchymal stromal cells from multiple abdominal adipose tissues and enrichment of angiogenic ability via CD146 molecule,” Cytotherapy.

3 H. M. Yang, H. J. Choi, D. P. Hong, S. Y. Joo, N. E. Lee, J. Y. Song, Y. L. Choi, J. Lee, D. Choi, B. Kim, et al., “The analysis of mutations and exon deletions at TSC2 gene in angiomyolipomas associated with tuberous sclerosis complex,” Experimental and Molecular Pathology.

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.

Asma Ayyed AL-Shammary | Regenerative Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Asma Ayyed AL-Shammary | Regenerative Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor of Regenerative Medicine,University of Ha’il, Collage of Public Health and Health Informatics,Saudi Arabia

Dr. Asma Ayyed Hamad Al-Shammary is a renowned academic and researcher in Regenerative Medicine, specializing in Stem Cell Biology. She obtained the first PhD in Regenerative Medicine by a Saudi researcher from Odense University, Denmark. Dr. Al-Shammary is currently an Associate Professor and Dean of the College of Public Health & Health Informatics at the University of Hail, Saudi Arabia. She has held prominent roles in scientific review and medical consultation, focusing on mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and their clinical applications. Fluent in Arabic, English, Danish, and beginner-level French, Dr. Al-Shammary has been an active contributor to the development of public health strategies in Saudi Arabia, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her work bridges scientific research, health policy, and community impact.

Profile

Strengths for the Award

  1. Expertise in Regenerative Medicine: Dr. Al-Shammary holds a PhD in Regenerative Medicine from Denmark, which makes her one of the first Saudi researchers in this field. Her research has been focused on human stem cells, particularly mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and human embryonic stem cells, both crucial for advancing regenerative medicine.
  2. Strong Academic Background: Her academic qualifications, including a Master’s degree in Tissue and Cell Embryology from King Faisal University and a Bachelor’s in Biology, demonstrate a solid foundation in the biological sciences. Her work in stem cell biology, specifically regarding MSCs, is of great importance in the current landscape of medical research.
  3. Research Impact: Dr. Al-Shammary’s work has led to multiple research publications in high-impact journals and conferences, contributing significantly to the scientific community. For instance, her studies on COVID-19 dynamics in Saudi Arabia and the promotion of health behaviors during the pandemic show her responsiveness to current global health challenges.
  4. Active Involvement in Cutting-Edge Projects: She has led and contributed to several highly relevant projects such as stem cell research in Saudi Arabia, the development of nano-formulated antibiotics for ocular infections, and lung cancer detection using biosensors. These projects have the potential to revolutionize treatment approaches and improve quality of life.
  5. Leadership Roles: As an Associate Professor and Dean of the College of Public Health & Health Informatics, Dr. Al-Shammary has demonstrated leadership, not only in research but also in academic administration. She has overseen multiple projects and has held influential roles in scientific societies like INHWE and ECTS.
  6. Awards and Recognition: She has received notable awards, including an Award of Excellence from the Saudi Cultural Mission in Germany. Furthermore, her leadership in various projects and her work in public health behavior promotion during the COVID-19 pandemic have earned her recognition.
  7. Commitment to Volunteer Work: Dr. Al-Shammary has engaged in significant volunteer work related to health and science education, from serving as a trainer in scientific research methods to participating in charity work. This shows her commitment to the broader community.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Public Visibility: While Dr. Al-Shammary has had notable success in research and academic leadership, enhancing her public visibility in the global scientific community through more frequent international collaborations and public speaking at major conferences could further elevate her profile.
  2. Further Collaboration in Interdisciplinary Fields: Although she is highly regarded in regenerative medicine, expanding her research and collaborations into interdisciplinary fields, such as bioengineering, could lead to more innovative outcomes, particularly in medical device development or genetic therapies.
  3. Expanding Research into Clinical Trials: While her work in regenerative medicine and stem cell biology is impressive, a further focus on translating her research into clinical trials and real-world applications would be beneficial. This would enhance the direct impact of her work on patient care and treatment.

Education

Dr. Asma Ayyed Hamad Al-Shammary holds a PhD in Regenerative Medicine from Odense University, Denmark (2015), where her research focused on bone marrow skeletal stem cells and their markers. Prior to that, she earned a Master’s degree in Tissue and Cell Embryology from King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia, in 2009, with research on embryonic stem cells from albino mice. In 2002, she completed a Bachelor’s degree in Biology at Science College, Saudi Arabia. Her academic journey has been enriched by a series of specialized courses, including Mesenchymal Stem Cell Biology at Karolinska Institute and Matrix Biology at the University of Copenhagen. These qualifications have laid the foundation for her expertise in regenerative medicine and stem cell biology.

Experience

Dr. Asma Ayyed Hamad Al-Shammary has extensive academic experience. Currently, she serves as Associate Professor in the College of Public Health & Health Informatics at University of Hail, where she was also Vice Dean from 2019 to 2023. Before this, she worked as an Assistant Professor in Biology at the same institution. Dr. Al-Shammary’s career began as a Lecturer at the University of Ha’il, followed by roles at King Faisal University. She has also held administrative positions, including Dean of the College of Public Health & Health Informatics (since 2023) and Head of Consulting Firm specializing in Stem Cells and Epidemic Crisis Management. Her involvement in the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SLLE exam) as a Head of Laboratory Operations further underscores her leadership in health sciences.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Asma Ayyed Hamad Al-Shammary has received several notable awards and honors throughout her career. She was awarded the Award of Excellence by the Saudi Cultural Mission in Germany (2015). Her contributions to stem cell research and COVID-19 health initiatives in Saudi Arabia have earned her recognition, including a research award for her MSC and chemotherapy project from the National Center for Radiation Research & Technology (2020-2023). Dr. Al-Shammary has been a key figure in projects such as nano-formulation of antibiotics and lung cancer detection with biosensors. Her innovative leadership in public health behavior during COVID-19 has also been highly praised. Her work continues to influence both scientific and medical communities.

Research Focus

Dr. Asma Ayyed Hamad Al-Shammary’s primary research focus is in Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Biology, particularly the role of mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) in regenerative therapies. She has also contributed to COVID-19 modeling and public health behavior research in Saudi Arabia. Her research aims to bridge laboratory science with real-world applications, improving therapeutic approaches for chronic diseases and cancer. Dr. Al-Shammary’s work includes pioneering research on embryonic stem cells, cell differentiation, and therapeutic applications of stem cells in disease treatment. Additionally, she has led projects focused on quality of life improvements, nano-formulated therapies, and biomedical devices like lung cancer detection using biosensors. Her broad range of research topics highlights her contribution to medical science, public health, and the development of modern healthcare solutions.

Publications

  1. Identification of Putative Plant-Based ALR-2 Inhibitors to Treat Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy 🌿🩺
  2. Computational Analysis of PTP-1B Site-Directed Mutations and Their Structural Binding to Potential Inhibitors 💻🔬
  3. Role of Community-Based Measures in Adherence to Self-Protective Behaviors During First Wave of COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia 🦠🤝
  4. Generalized Richards Model for Predicting COVID-19 Dynamics in Saudi Arabia 📊🌍

Conclusion

Dr. Asma Ayyed Hamad Al-Shammary is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. She has demonstrated exceptional strength in regenerative medicine, particularly in stem cell biology, and has actively contributed to scientific and public health improvements. Her academic and administrative leadership, along with her significant research contributions and involvement in cutting-edge projects, makes her a standout figure in the field. By enhancing her visibility in international collaborations and further advancing her research to clinical stages, she would continue to have a profound impact on the scientific and medical communities.Her commitment to community health, evident in both her research and volunteer activities, further underscores her candidacy for the award.