Laila Jaragh-Alhadad | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

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


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

Journal: Journal of Nanobiotechnology

Year: 2023

 

Mawunu Monizi | Biomolecules | Medicinal Chemistry Breakthrough Award

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


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


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


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


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


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


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

Hyunmo Jeong | Biomolecules | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hyunmo Jeong | Biomolecules | Best Researcher Award

The Korean Institute of Nutrition, South Korea

Author Profiles

Orcid 

Scopus

🎓 Academic Qualifications

Dr. Jeong has earned all his academic degrees from Hallym University, Korea, where he completed his Ph.D. in Food Science and Nutrition (2020–2024) with an impressive GPA of 4.41/4.5. He obtained his M.S. degree in the same field (2018–2020) with a GPA of 4.31/4.5, following a B.S. degree (2012–2018) with a GPA of 3.18/4.5. This consistent academic journey illustrates his deep-rooted commitment to the discipline and forms the bedrock of his expertise in biomolecular research.

🧪 Research Experience

Dr. Jeong’s professional journey includes numerous research and teaching roles. Since March 2024, he has been working as a Postdoctoral Researcher at Hallym University. Prior to that, he served as a Research Assistant from 2019 to 2024, contributing significantly to multiple research projects in food bioactives, enzyme applications, and biomolecule encapsulation. His teaching experience includes roles as a Teaching Assistant for subjects such as Food Microbiology, Laboratory Practicals, and Introduction to Food Science, from 2018 to 2022, reflecting his ability to bridge the gap between scientific research and student learning.

🔬 Research Interests and Expertise

Dr. Jeong’s research is focused on the Encapsulation of Hydrophobic Functional Compounds using Carbohydrate Enzymes. He has successfully developed systems to enhance water solubility and stability of natural bioactives, utilizing techniques such as HPLC, Prep-LC, MALDI-TOF, FT-IR, SEM, and NMR for compound analysis. His cell-based work includes anti-inflammatory studies using RAW 264.7 macrophage cells and evaluation through NO production, DPPH, and ABTS antioxidant assays.

Additionally, he has experience in cloning, mutation, and expression of carbohydrate-active enzymes, conducting protein expression in E. coli, purification via Ni-NTA affinity chromatography, and kinetic parameter assessment through Michaelis–Menten kinetics. His molecular-level work is supported by methods like TLC, HPAEC-PAD, and DSC for thermal and structural evaluation. In the realm of starch modification, Dr. Jeong has engineered enzyme-modified starches using CGTase and branching enzymes. His work includes freeze-thaw stability analysis, retrogradation studies, and texture profiling of food applications such as bread and sauces. He is also adept at extracting and analyzing bioactive compounds from natural products using optimized ethanol-based extraction, focusing on solvent ratios, time, and temperature conditions to maximize yield.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Dr. Jeong’s exceptional academic and research capabilities have been recognized with numerous awards and scholarships. He received the prestigious BK21 Four Research Scholarship from the National Research Foundation of Korea for two consecutive academic terms (2022–2024). He also earned the Encouragement Award for an oral presentation at the 2022 KFN International Symposium, and the Excellent Paper Award from the Graduate School of Hallym University in 2021. His work has been honored at multiple KFN Annual Meetings for poster presentations in 2019 and 2020. Notably, he was a Finalist in the IFT19 Biotechnology Division Poster Competition held in New Orleans, USA. He has consistently received the Hallym University Fund Scholarship throughout his graduate studies (2018–2024), highlighting his academic dedication and leadership potential.

Notable Publications📝


📝Development and applications of enzymatic modified starch with high water solubility providing a continuous supply of glucose

Authors: Eun-A Kim, Ye-Rim Lee, Eun-Hyeong Lee, Hyun-Mo Jeong, Byung Sik Kang, Byung-Hak Kim, Sang Jae Park, Jae-Hoon Shim

Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules

Year: 2023


📝Improved low water solubility of fisetin by enzymatic encapsulation reaction using cycloamylose produced by cyclodextrin glucanotransferase

Authors: Hyun-Mo Jeong, Hae-Na Kang, Ye-Rim Lee, Eun-A. Kim, Eun-Hyeong Lee, Jae-Hoon Shim

Journal: Process Biochemistry

Year: 2023


📝Enzymatic formation of cyclic maltooligosaccharides for the application of quercetin inclusion complex

Authors: Ye-Rim Lee, Hyun-Mo Jeong, Ji-Soo Kim, Eun-A Kim, Eun-Hyeong Lee, Jae-Hoon Shim

Journal: Carbohydrate Polymers

Year: 2023


📝Development of Fermented Rice Water to Improve the Quality of Garaetteok, a Traditional Korean Rice Cake

Authors: Eun-Hyeong Lee, Hyun-Mo Jeong, Eun-A Kim, Ye-Rim Lee, Jae-Hoon Shim

Journal: Foods

Year: 2023


📝Component Analysis of the Kudzu (Pueraria lobata) Root and Development of Puerarin and Starch Extraction Method

Authors: Ji-Soo Kim, Seung-Hye Woo, Hyun-Mo Jeong, Yu-Jeong Shin, Eun-A Kim, Ye-Rim Lee, Eun-Hyeong Lee, Jae-Hoon Shim

Journal: Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition

Year: 2022

 

Prof. xiangwen peng – Proteomics – Best Researcher Award

Prof. xiangwen peng – Proteomics – Best Researcher Award

Changsha Maternal and Child Health Hospital affiliated to Hunan Normal University, China

Author Profile

orcid

🎓 Academic Background

Prof. Xiangwen Peng pursued his Ph.D. in Heart Regeneration at Fudan University, Shanghai, China (2011-2016), where he conducted groundbreaking research on heart regeneration under the mentorship of Dr. Tao P. Zhong. Prior to this, he obtained his Master’s degree from Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China (2006-2009), focusing on Drosophila heart development under the guidance of Dr. Xiushan Wu and Dr. Rolf Bodmer. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Aquaculture from Guangdong Ocean University, Guangdong, China (2001-2005), laying the foundation for his expertise in biological sciences.

🏥 Leadership in Hospital Research Development

Since October 2021, Prof. Xiangwen Peng has been serving as the Central Laboratory Director at Changsha Maternal and Child Health Hospital, affiliated with Hunan Normal University. His primary responsibility is the establishment and development of the hospital’s basic research center, which integrates both clinical and fundamental research to enhance medical advancements. Under his leadership, a multidisciplinary research platform has been created, covering zebrafish and mouse experimental models, cell biology, and molecular biology studies.

🧬 Postdoctoral and International Research Experience

Prof. Peng’s research career has been enriched by several postdoctoral and visiting scholar positions at prestigious institutions worldwide. He worked as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Institute of Pediatrics, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Centre, Guangzhou Medical University (2016-Present), where he focused on the role of noncanonical Wnt signaling in zebrafish heart regeneration. Between 2019 and 2020, he conducted postdoctoral research at the Medical College of Wisconsin, deepening his expertise in cardiac research. Prior to that, he worked as a Visiting Scholar at the McAllister Heart Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2018-2019), where he explored immune cell involvement in zebrafish heart regeneration, specifically T cell immunity, and gained valuable experience in single-cell research techniques.

🚀 Vision for Future Scientific Growth

Prof. Xiangwen Peng is dedicated to advancing medical research in maternal and child health. His evidence-based approach to hospital development is already yielding remarkable results, reinforcing his commitment to building a research-oriented hospital that integrates scientific innovation, clinical excellence, and academic leadership. Through his continuous efforts, he is paving the way for future medical breakthroughs and improved patient care.

Notable Publications📝


📝Identification of CSPG4 as a Biomarker and Therapeutic Target for Infantile Post‐Hemorrhagic Hydrocephalus via Multi‐Omics Analysis

Authors: Juncao Chen, Lin Wang, Xiangwen Peng, Tingting Cheng, Yihui Yang, Jingzhen Su, Hongmei Zou, Siyao Wang, Yueting Mao, Lixiang Wu, et al.

Journal: Advanced Science

Year: 2025


📝A patient with 18p11.32-p11.21 deletion have monaural deafness caused by an inadequate haplodose of THOC1: A case report

Authors: Geng Ouyang, Enhuan Yi, Huali Qin, Xingxing Duan, Sifeng Wang, Xiangwen Peng

Journal: Medicine

Year: 2024


📝Case Report: Wiedemann-Steiner syndrome with a new frameshift mutation in KMT2A

Authors: Jun He, Aimin Deng, Ying Chen, Shuyuan Yan, Yanling Wang, Tuanmei Wang, Xiangwen Peng

Journal: Preprint

Year: 2024


📝The clinical spectrum of a nonsense mutation in KAT6A: a case report

Authors: Dongbo Wang, Jun He, Xueyi Li, Shuyuan Yan, Linglin Pan, Tuanmei Wang, Liangrong Zhou, Jiyang Liu, Xiangwen Peng

Journal: Journal of International Medical Research

Year: 2022


📝Neomodified Koyanagi technique for severe hypospadias with one‐stage sealed Y‐shaped penis foreskin vascular protection surgery

Authors: Jiancheng Zu, Yifu Chen, Yu Liu, Tianqu He, Yanling Wang, Yuee Zu, Xiangwen Peng

Journal: Clinical Case Reports

Year: 2022

Dr. Leena Grace Beslin | Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Leena Grace Beslin | Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at Nesamony Memorial Christian College, India

Professional Profiles

Scopus

Orcid

🎓 Educational Background

Dr. Beslin’s educational journey is marked by excellence. She earned her Ph.D. in Aquatic Biology from the University of Kerala in 2003, where her research focused on the influence of environmental parameters on estuarine biodiversity. Her M.Phil in Coastal Aquaculture (1998) was completed at Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, followed by an MSc in Zoology from VO Chidambaram College, Tuticorin, in 1996. She began her academic journey with a BSc in Zoology from Women’s Christian College, Nagercoil in 1994.

🔬 Research Areas & Expertise

Dr. Beslin specializes in Conservation Biology and Cancer Biology, focusing on preserving biodiversity and studying the impact of environmental factors on species survival. Her PhD Thesis revolved around the conservation of estuarine species like Arius arius and Glossogobius giuris, highlighting her commitment to ecological sustainability and species conservation.

🏅 Honors and Recognition

Dr. Beslin has been recognized with several prestigious awards for her academic and research contributions. Some of her notable accolades include the International Women Researcher Award (2019), International Research Excellence Award (2021), and the Award of Excellence in Research (2024). Her academic performance has been exceptional, as she was awarded I rank in MSc in 1996 and received a University of Kerala Fellowship for her PhD (1999-2003).

🧑‍🔬 Professional Experience

Dr. Beslin has a rich professional history in academia. She has been serving as an Assistant Professor at Nesamony Memorial Christian College since 2022, where she continues to inspire the next generation of scientists. Previously, she served as a guest faculty at the University of Kerala (2019-2021) and held positions at various prestigious institutions, including Gogate Jogalekar College in Maharashtra, Selvamm Arts and Science College in Tamil Nadu, and Vinayaka Mission’s University in Salem. Her academic career has spanned over two decades, making her an invaluable asset to the academic community.

🌍 Professional Affiliations & Memberships

Dr. Beslin is an active member of several professional organizations. She is a Life Member of the Tamilnadu Science Forum and the Institute of Scholars, as well as a member of the Asian Council of Science Editors. She also holds membership in the Youth Red Cross (YRC) and is actively involved in organizing academic events, including serving on the Abstract Committee for the International Conference on Aquaculture and Fisheries in 2024.

📖 Journal Memberships & Contributions

Dr. Beslin contributes significantly to the scientific community through her roles as an Editorial Member for prestigious journals such as Applied Ecology and Environmental Sciences and Trends in Medical Research. She also serves as a Reviewer for journals like the International Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences and Phytotherapy Research, ensuring the quality and integrity of scientific research in her field.

Publications📝

Article Title: Association of BRCA1 promoter methylation with rs11655505 (c.2265C>T) variants and decreased gene expression in sporadic breast cancer

Authors: Hasan, T.N., Leena Grace, B., Shafi, G., Syed, R.

Journal: Clinical and Translational Oncology

Year: 2013

Article Title: Identification of Functional SNPs in BARD1 Gene and In Silico Analysis of Damaging SNPs: Based on Data Procured from dbSNP Database

Authors: Alshatwi, A.A., Hasan, T.N., Syed, N.A., Shafi, G., Grace, B.L.

Journal: PLoS ONE

Year: 2012

Article Title: Affinity of estrogens for human progesterone receptor A and B monomers and risk of breast cancer: A comparative molecular modeling study

Authors: Hasan, T.N., Leena Grace, B., Masoodi, T.A., Alshatwi, A.A., Sivashanmugham, P.

Journal: Advances and Applications in Bioinformatics and Chemistry

Year: 2011

Article Title: Anti-proliferative effects of organic extracts from root bark of Juglans regia L. (RBJR) on MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells: Role of Bcl-2/Bax, Caspases and Tp53

Authors: Hasan, T.N., Grace, B.L., Shafi, G., Al-Hazzani, A.A., Alshatwi, A.A.

Journal: Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention

Year: 2011

Article Title: Trace metal concentration in the sediments of three backwaters at the south west coast of India

Authors: Grace, B.L.

Journal: Pollution Research

Year: 2007