Mrs. Laila Jaragh-Alhadad | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Kuwait University, Kuwait

Author Profile

Scopus

Academic Qualifications

Mrs. Laila Jaragh-Alhadad holds a strong academic background in chemistry, having earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Bioanalytical Chemistry from Cleveland State University, USA, in 2017. Her doctoral thesis, “Cholesterol conjugated heat shock protein 27 inhibitor as a novel anti-ovarian cancer agent,” highlights her dedication to developing targeted treatments for cancer, particularly ovarian cancer. She previously completed her M.Sc. in Petroleum Chemistry in 2009 and her B.Sc. in Chemistry in 2004, both from Kuwait University. This academic progression demonstrates her solid foundation in both applied and analytical chemistry disciplines, particularly in clinical and petroleum applications.

Professional Experience

Mrs. Jaragh-Alhadad is currently working as an Assistant Professor at Kuwait University, a role she has held since 2017, where she teaches and supervises research in chemistry. From 2012 to 2017, she was a Ph.D. scholar at Cleveland State University in the United States. Earlier in her career, she worked as a Chemist at Kuwait’s Environmental Public Authority from 2009 to 2011, where she gained practical experience in environmental and analytical chemistry. She also served as a Graduate Scientific Assistant at Kuwait University from 2006 to 2008, assisting in laboratory work and academic research. Her diverse experience bridges both academic and industrial applications of chemistry.

Research Experience & Interests

Mrs. Jaragh-Alhadad has established a strong research portfolio, primarily focused on the design, synthesis, characterization, and biological evaluation of anticancer agents. As a Principal Investigator, she has successfully completed and led multiple research projects funded by the Research Sector of Kuwait University. Her completed projects include the design and LDL (low-density lipoprotein) encapsulation of anticancer dual HSP27 and HER2 inhibitors to target ovarian cancer (ZS06/17), and the development of a new generation of anticancer agents targeting HSP27 in women’s cancers (SC14/18). She is currently working on a project involving 1,2,4-triazole derivatives loaded into LDL to target HER2 and tubulin for cancer therapy (SC03/23), as well as a novel study on nimesulide-containing dimethoxy benzamide for cancer treatment (SC01/24). Her research reflects her deep interest in biochemical targeting and innovative drug delivery systems.

Honors & Recognition

Throughout her academic and professional journey, Mrs. Jaragh-Alhadad has received numerous honors in recognition of her work. In 2011, she was honored with a Ph.D. scholarship by the Chemistry Department at Kuwait University. In April 2019, she received the Best Research Award at the 595th International Conference on Recent Advances in Medical and Health Sciences (ICRAMHS) in Oxford, UK, for her research demonstrating that HSP27 is a key biomarker and therapeutic target that can downregulate HER2 to improve ovarian cancer survival rates. During the academic year 2020–2021, she received the Distinguished Teaching Award from the College of Science at Kuwait University, acknowledging her excellence in teaching and mentorship. In December 2021, she was honored with another Best Research Award at the International Research Award on Oncology and Cancer Research (USA) for her work on dual HSP27 and HER2 inhibitors encapsulated in LDL particles to target ovarian cancer cells, alongside collaborators Gamaleldin I. Harisa and Fars K. Alanazi.

Notable Publications

A novel one‑pot microwave assisted green synthesis of pyridinyl‑1,3,5‑triazine‑2,4‑diamine hybrids as potent antimicrobial agents

Journal: BMC Chemistry

Year: 2025

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Electrochemical aptasensor based on the engineered core‑shell MOF nanostructures for the detection of tumor antigens

Journal: Journal of Nanobiotechnology

Year: 2023

 

Mr. Mawunu Monizi | Biomolecules | Medicinal Chemistry Breakthrough Award

Universidade Kimpa Vita, Angola

Author Profile

Orcid

Educational & Academic Qualifications

Mr. Monizi Mawunu has built a strong academic foundation in the life sciences. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Biology, specializing in Molecular & Cellular Biology (2023–present) at the University of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. He previously earned a Master’s degree (Advanced Studies Diploma) in the same specialization from the same institution (2018–2020). Broadening his expertise internationally, he completed a Specialized Master’s degree in Innovations & Policies for Sustainable Food (2012–2013) at Montpellier SupAgro, France. His earlier academic journey includes a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences with a major in Biotechnology (2001–2004), preceded by a Bachelor’s in General Biological Sciences (1995–2000), both from the University of Kinshasa. His foundational education includes a state diploma in biological and chemical sciences (1986–1992) from Instituto Lengo‑Nduizi, Zaire, and primary schooling at Escola Primária Kiwembo‑Lombe, Baixo‑Zaire (1980–1986).

Research Areas & Interests

Mr. Mawunu’s research expertise lies at the intersection of Biodiversity, Food and Medicinal Phytochemistry, and Ethnobiology. His investigations extend into Food Security, Lifestyles, Organic Agriculture, and Traditional Knowledge Systems, addressing critical sustainable development challenges through a multidisciplinary lens. His work emphasizes the preservation and scientific validation of traditional resources in Angola and Central Africa.

Professional Experience

Mr. Mawunu has over two decades of academic and scientific experience. Since September 2022, he has been serving as Scientific Advisor at the University of Kimpa Vita, Uíge, Angola. From June to September 2022, he held the role of Director of Scientific Research, Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Postgraduate Studies at the same university. He has been an active member of the Senate (2016–2022) and continues to serve on the Scientific Council since 2016. From April 2010 to present, he is a Full-time Assistant Professor teaching General Botany, Systematic Botany, Statistics, and Biostatistics at the Polytechnic School in Uíge. His earlier academic appointments include Chair of the Agronomy Department (2011), Part-time Lecturer in Cytology and Statistics (2008–2011), and Teacher of Biology and Chemistry at Roi Beaudouin I Complex School in Kinshasa (2005–2006). His broad teaching portfolio and leadership positions highlight his commitment to higher education and scientific advancement.

Notable Publications

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Development of drug release systems based on microfibrillated cellulose and alginate for the duodenum (pH 6.6)

Authors: José Pedro Maielano Benjamim, Nelson Mariti Henrique, Mawunu Monizi, Koto-Te-Nyiwa Ngbolua

Journal: Natural Resources for Human Health

Year: 2025

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Phytochemical Screening and Biological Activities of Lippia multiflora Moldenke

Authors: Dorcas Tlhapi, Ntsoaki Malebo, Idah Tichaidza Manduna, Monizi Mawunu, Ramakwala Christinah Chokwe

Journal: Molecules

Year: 2025

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Medicinal plants traditionally used by the rural Kimalalu people in the municipality of Songo (Uíge province), Northern Angola

Authors: Monizi Mawunu, Afonso David Malungo, Lukebano Cuca Afonso, Lukoki Luyeye, Luyindula Ndiku, Koto-Te-Nyiwa Ngbolua

Journal: Natural Resources for Human Health

Year: 2024

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A Review of Medicinal Plants Used in the Management of Microbial Infections in Angola

Authors: Dorcas Tlhapi, Ntsoaki Malebo, Idah Tichaidza Manduna, Thea Lautenschläger, Monizi Mawunu

Journal: Plants

Year: 2024

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Integrating Ethnobotany and Artificial Intelligence to validate the potential bioactivity of two medicinal plants traditionally used in the treatment of influenza in IBI-Village and surrounding areas, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Authors: Menga Mukolo Pisco, Gerengbo Koto Georges, Mawunu Monizi, Masengo Ashande Colette, Tshimankinda Mpiana Pius, Mudogo Virima, Koto-te-Nyiwa Ngbolua

Journal: Natural Resources for Human Health

Year: 2024

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Ethnobotanical uses of wild edible plants of Mucaba municipality, Angola

Authors: Monizi Mawunu, Mazekanua H. G. Panzo, António Telo, Koto-te-Nyiwa Ngbolua, Lukoki Luyeye, Luyindula Ndiku, Thea Lautenschläger

Journal: Natural Resources for Human Health

Year: 2022