David MIAFFO-Innovative Leadership Award-Excellence in Research

Assoc Prof Dr. David MIAFFO-Innovative Leadership Award-Excellence in Research

Université de Maroua-Cameroon  

Author profile 

Early Academic Pursuits

David Miaffo's academic journey is marked by significant achievements and a strong foundation in life sciences. He obtained his Bachelor's degree in Animal Biology from the University of Dschang, Cameroon, in August 2007, followed by a Master's degree in Animal Physiology in April 2011 from the same university. His academic pursuit culminated in a Doctorate/PhD in Animal Physiology from the University of Dschang in October 2016.

Professional Endeavors

David's professional career reflects his dedication to research and teaching in the field of animal physiology and pharmacology. He started as a temporary teacher of Anatomy and Physiology at the Paramedical Professional Training of Dschang, Cameroon, from 2007 to 2009. Subsequently, he was appointed as an Associate Lecturer at the Higher Teachers’ Training College, University of Maroua, in March 2012, and later became a Senior Lecturer in November 2016.

Throughout his career, David has supervised numerous master's and doctoral students, published articles, delivered oral presentations, and actively contributed to the academic community through his research endeavors.

Contributions and Research Focus

David's research primarily focuses on the valorization of natural substances derived from plants for their pharmacological effects on diabetes mellitus and associated complications. His work aims to validate the therapeutic efficacy of traditional medicines and explore galenic formulations to alleviate the impact of diabetes.

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Accolades and Recognition

David's contributions have been recognized through his publication record, with a notable citation index in reputable databases like Scopus and Web of Science. He has also published books, participated in conferences, and received editorial appointments, showcasing his impact in the scientific community.

Impact and Influence on Innovative Leadership Award 

David's research not only contributes to the scientific understanding of plant-based therapies for diabetes but also holds socioeconomic significance. His work promotes the development of the African pharmacopoeia, offers potential income generation through resource valorization, and enhances international collaborations, thereby elevating the visibility of his institution and country in global research circles.

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Legacy and Future Contributions

David's legacy lies in his commitment to advancing knowledge in animal physiology and pharmacology, particularly in addressing critical health issues like diabetes. His future contributions are expected to further strengthen the scientific basis for traditional medicines, foster collaborations, and inspire the next generation of researchers in Africa.

In conclusion, David Miaffo's academic and professional journey reflects a deep-rooted passion for scientific exploration, impactful research, and knowledge dissemination. His work exemplifies excellence in scientific inquiry and underscores the vital role of researchers in addressing pressing health challenges on a global scale.

Notable publications 

Avijit Maity-Innovative Leadership-Best Researcher Award

Avijit Maity-Indian Institute of Technology Indore -India

Author Profile 

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Early Academic Pursuits:

Avijit Maity began his academic journey with a strong foundation in the field of Chemistry. His commitment to excellence is evident from his consistently impressive academic record. Starting with his High School education in Science and Arts, where he achieved an exceptional 86.5% in the 10th standard and 81.8% in the 12th standard from W.B.B.S.E and W.B.C.H.S.E, respectively. He continued his pursuit of knowledge at Vidyasagar University, earning a B.Sc. in Chemistry with a notable 68.6%. His academic journey then led him to the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Indore, where he completed his M.Sc. in Chemistry with an outstanding 8.72 CPI/10.

Professional Endeavors:

He academic journey reached its zenith when he embarked on his Ph.D. in Chemistry (Bio-physical Chemistry) at IIT Indore in July 2019. Under the guidance of Prof. Anjan Chakraborty, he delved into the intriguing realm of membrane biochemistry. His research focus primarily revolves around nano-bio interactions, lipid corona formation, and the intricate dynamics between proteins and lipid-coated nanoparticles.

Avijit's commitment to academic and research excellence led to him being recognized as a Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Fellow at the University of Massachusetts under the mentorship of Prof. Vincent M. Rotello from August 2023 to May 2024. This opportunity further showcases his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge on a global scale.

Contributions and Research Focus:

His research is pioneering in the field of membrane biochemistry, specifically focusing on the formation of lipid corona and its profound impact on protein corona formation. His work involves employing a diverse range of spectroscopic and imaging techniques, including UV-Visible, fluorescence, confocal laser scanning microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy.

His research publications, including the recently accepted paper in Chemical Physics Impact, demonstrate the depth and significance of his contributions to understanding lipid corona dynamics. Avijit's exploration into the interaction of lipid-coated nanoparticles with proteins, as well as the folding and unfolding state-dependent interactions, sheds light on critical aspects of nano-bio interactions.

Accolades and Recognition:

His academic and research prowess has been recognized through various accolades and scholarships. Notably, he received the Merit-cum-Means Scholarship from the Government of West Bengal during his High School and B.Sc. years (2012-2017) and from IIT Indore during his M.Sc. (2017-2019). His exceptional performance in the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) in Chemistry in 2019 is a testament to his academic excellence.

Avijit's contributions have not gone unnoticed within the academic community. He was awarded the Best Oral Presentation at the CHEM-In-house Symposium at IIT Indore in March 2022, showcasing his ability to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively.

Impact and Influence:

He research has far-reaching implications in the fields of nanotechnology and biochemistry. By unraveling the mechanisms behind lipid corona formation and its interplay with proteins, his work contributes valuable insights that can influence the development of drug delivery systems and artificial virus nanoparticles.

Legacy and Future Contributions:

As a Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Fellow, Avijit is poised to make significant contributions during his tenure at the University of Massachusetts. His future research plans, focusing on lipid-mediated virus-cell interactions using lipid-coated nanoparticles as artificial virus nanoparticles, hold promise for advancing our understanding of complex biological processes.

In summary, Avijit Maity's academic journey, research contributions, accolades, and future endeavors collectively paint a picture of a dedicated and promising researcher making meaningful strides in the field of membrane biochemistry.

Citation

  • Citations     62    62
  • h-index       5      5
  • i10-index   4       4

R. Karthik Raja-Innovative Leadership-Best Faculty Award

R.Karthik Raja- Saveetha School of Engineering -India

Author Profile 

Early Academic Pursuits

He embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in Microbiology. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Microbiology from K.S.R. College of Arts and Science, Tamil Nadu, India, in 2003, securing First Class with a remarkable 60.52%. He continued to pursue higher education, completing his Master's degree in Applied Microbiology from the same institution, affiliated with Periyar University, in 2005. Karthik Raja achieved First Class with a notable 65.40%.

His academic journey reached its zenith with a Ph.D. in Biotechnology from Bharathidasan University, Tamil Nadu, India, where he conducted groundbreaking research on the isolation, identification, and ecological characterization of entomopathogenic nematodes (Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae) from cultivated lands of Salem District, Tamil Nadu, India. His thesis, titled "Studies on isolation, identification and ecological characterization of entomopathogenic nematodes," earned him the distinction of being "Highly Commended."

Professional Endeavors

His professional journey has been marked by diverse roles in esteemed institutions, showcasing his commitment to research and education. His research experience includes roles such as Project Fellow at Bharathidasan University (2007-2009) and Researcher at Adnan Menderes University, Turkey (2009-2010). He further expanded his expertise as a Post-Doctoral Fellow at Adnan Menderes University, Turkey (2012-2013), and later, as a Post-Doctoral Fellow (DST-Young Scientist) at Periyar University, India (2014-2017). His academic contributions continued with roles like Assistant Professor at Padmavani College of Arts and Science for Women, India (2019) and RUSA-Post-Doctoral Fellow at Alagappa University, India (2019-2021). Currently, he holds the position of Associate Professor at SIMATS University, Chennai, since August 2022.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Karthik Raja has significantly contributed to the field of Biotechnology, particularly in areas such as pest control using nano-formulations, isolation and identification of entomopathogenic nematodes, ecological characterization of entomopathogenic nematodes, and mass production of entomopathogenic nematodes. His research has a global footprint, with international experience in Turkey and Canada, where he conducted research and presented findings.

Accolades and Recognition

His academic prowess has been recognized through various fellowships and awards, including the prestigious "Young Scientist Award" from the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, and research fellowships in Turkey. Dr. Karthik Raja's commitment to research has also been acknowledged through travel grants for international conferences.

Impact and Influence

His research contributions are evident in his extensive list of publications in reputable journals. His work covers diverse topics, from transcriptional regulatory mechanisms in cancer to the biosynthesis of selenium nanoparticles for mosquito larvicidal properties. His publications have garnered substantial impact factors, showcasing the significance of his research in the scientific community.

Legacy and Future Contributions

His legacy is characterized by his multidisciplinary research and dedication to advancing knowledge in biotechnology. As an Associate Professor, he continues to inspire the next generation of researchers. His future contributions are poised to further enrich the scientific community, with a focus on innovative solutions in pest control, nanotechnology applications, and the ecological dynamics of entomopathogenic nematodes.

Citations

  • Citations        477      418
  • h-index          14        13
  • i10-index      18         16

Notable Publications