Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dalia Haroun | Health | Women Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dalia Haroun | Health | Women Researcher Award

Zayed University, United Arab Emirates

Author Profile

Scopus 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Dalia Haroun’s academic journey reflects a steadfast dedication to the field of nutrition and child health. Her passion for understanding the complexities of human nutrition began at the American University of Beirut, where she earned her B.Sc. (Hons) in Nutrition and Dietetics between 1998 and 2002. This foundational education shaped her interest in the broader implications of diet on human development, particularly in the vulnerable stages of childhood.

With a desire to deepen her expertise, Dr. Haroun pursued a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition and Immunology at the University of Surrey, London, from 2003 to 2004. Graduating with distinction, she wrote a thesis on the hydration of fat-free mass in obese versus non-obese children, which set the stage for her future research. Her academic curiosity continued at University College London, where she completed her Ph.D. in Child Health between 2005 and 2008. Her doctoral thesis, titled “Body Composition in Childhood Obesity,” established her as a dedicated scholar committed to investigating the health challenges faced by children in modern society.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Haroun is currently serving as an Associate Professor of Nutrition and Co-Chair of the Department of Health Sciences at Zayed University, located in the United Arab Emirates. Since 2011, she has contributed meaningfully to the academic and professional growth of the department while actively mentoring future public health and nutrition professionals.

Her educational background has been supplemented by various specialized trainings that underscore her multidisciplinary expertise. These include DXA (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry) training, Good Clinical Practice, and Peapod Body Composition Assessment training, in addition to certifications in First Aid and CPR. These credentials empower her to bring both academic depth and practical insights to the classroom and her research endeavors.

In addition to her teaching and research responsibilities, Dr. Haroun has actively participated in organizing national and regional initiatives related to public health awareness. Her role at Zayed University allows her to blend pedagogy, community engagement, and scientific investigation—qualities that have defined her professional character.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Haroun’s scholarly focus lies in child health, with an emphasis on body composition, childhood obesity, metabolic syndrome, and the psychosocial aspects of health such as bullying among children. Her research is interdisciplinary, bridging nutrition science with public health and behavioral studies.

A significant aspect of her work involves evaluating the physiological and psychological consequences of obesity among youth. Through her studies, Dr. Haroun explores how nutrition, physical activity, and psychosocial variables interact and affect the health outcomes of children. Her academic contributions, including peer-reviewed publications, are vital resources in the regional and global discourse surrounding childhood nutrition and health equity.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Over the years, Dr. Haroun has been repeatedly recognized for her tireless efforts in promoting child health in the UAE and beyond. In 2014, she was honored by the Ministry of Health for orchestrating a successful National Training Workshop on the Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV/AIDS.

Her consistent engagement in awareness campaigns and health education projects has earned her commendations from a variety of national bodies. The Dubai Education Zone, Ministry of Education, General Women’s Union, and UNICEF have all recognized her impactful work in areas such as child obesity prevention, injury awareness, and diabetes education. In 2010, she was honored by the Princess Haya Initiative for the Development of Health, Physical Education, and School Sports, a prestigious acknowledgment of her community-centric contributions.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Haroun’s influence stretches far beyond academic walls. Through her combined teaching, research, and public health initiatives, she has helped shape health policies and school-based intervention programs in the UAE. Her efforts have directly impacted thousands of children and families, particularly in the domains of obesity prevention, nutritional awareness, and health education.

Her collaborative projects with governmental and non-governmental organizations demonstrate a commitment not only to scholarship but also to societal well-being. By fostering partnerships and engaging in interdisciplinary efforts, she continues to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Dr. Dalia Haroun is well-positioned to continue her legacy as a pioneering scholar and community advocate in the Middle East and globally. Her future research is expected to delve deeper into the social determinants of child health, exploring innovative interventions to combat obesity and metabolic disorders.

As she continues to mentor students and professionals, she ensures that the next generation of health leaders are equipped with the knowledge, empathy, and scientific rigor required to tackle the world’s pressing health challenges. Her journey from a promising nutrition student in Beirut to a globally recognized academic leader in the UAE exemplifies a life of purpose, impact, and transformative vision.

📝Notable Publications

Validity of self-reported weight and height among female young adults in the United Arab Emirates

Authors: Dalia Haroun and Aseel Ehsanallah

Journal: PLOS ONE

Year: 2024 

Dr. Luciano Fusco | Immunology | Best Research Article Award

Dr. Luciano Fusco | Immunology | Best Research Article Award

CONICET y UNNE, Argentina

Author Profile

Orcid 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Luciano Sebastian Fusco, born on January 2, 1986, in Corrientes, Argentina, has consistently demonstrated a deep passion for science and a commitment to understanding biochemical processes from an early stage in his career. He pursued his foundational studies at the National University of the Northeast (UNNE), where he earned his degree as a Biochemist in 2010. He continued on this academic trajectory, completing a Ph.D. in Chemical Sciences at UNNE in 2015, a decision that marked a turning point in his scientific journey. During this period, Dr. Fusco began his in-depth exploration of snake venom toxicology and immunology—fields that would come to define his career. In addition to his formal degrees, he expanded his academic horizons by completing over 20 specialized postgraduate courses, focusing on immunotoxicology, proteomics, biotechnology, and pedagogical training for higher education, laying a solid foundation for both research and teaching.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Fusco currently serves as an Adjunct Researcher at CONICET—Argentina’s most prestigious scientific institution—and as a faculty member at UNNE’s Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences and Surveying. Over the past 15 years, he has cemented his place as an authority in snakebite toxicology, immunology, and protein chemistry, tackling one of the world’s most neglected tropical diseases. His work combines rigorous laboratory research with practical applications in public health, particularly in developing more effective antivenoms. Dr. Fusco’s scientific career includes strong collaborative links with leading international institutions such as UNICAMP, Fiocruz, and Butantan Institute in Brazil, and the Institute of Biomedicine of Valencia (IBV–CSIC) in Spain. These collaborations have enriched his scientific output and brought global perspectives into his lab in Argentina, positioning him as a bridge between Latin American and European scientific networks.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

At the heart of Dr. Fusco’s research is a relentless drive to innovate antivenom production techniques and make them more efficient, affordable, and widely available in regions where snakebites are a major health issue. His projects focus on immunological strategies that incorporate nanostructured adjuvants, aiming to enhance the body’s immune response and increase the efficacy of antivenoms. His groundbreaking investigations have led to the development of experimental antivenoms using novel adjuvants such as CpG-ODN and ascorbyl palmitate, combining cutting-edge immunology with tangible health benefits. He has authored or co-authored more than 15 peer-reviewed publications, contributing significantly to the academic discourse on venom immunogenicity, PLA2 enzyme inhibition, and venom component characterization.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Fusco’s scientific excellence has been consistently recognized through competitive funding and research support from institutions like CONICET, FONCYT, SGCyT, and the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (RSTMH) in the UK. The RSTMH Early Career Grant he received in 2022 is a testament to his international credibility and the global relevance of his research. These accolades not only reflect the scientific value of his work but also acknowledge his growing leadership in the field of neglected diseases and biomedical innovation.

🌎 Impact and Influence

The societal relevance of Dr. Fusco’s research is profound. In regions such as Latin America, where snakebites are a significant public health burden, his work contributes to saving lives and improving the quality of emergency response systems. By pushing for more immunogenic and affordable antivenoms, he is directly addressing gaps in health equity. Moreover, his dedication to human resource development is notable; he has mentored doctoral students, undergraduate researchers, and research fellows, effectively shaping the next generation of biomedical scientists in Argentina. His interdisciplinary and collaborative approach encourages knowledge sharing across borders, institutions, and cultures.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Dr. Luciano Fusco is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the realm of immunotherapeutics and venom research. His scientific endeavors will likely continue to evolve, incorporating tools from biotechnology, nanomedicine, and systems biology to refine and revolutionize antivenom production. Equally important is his role as an educator and mentor, ensuring that the future of biochemical research in Argentina remains vibrant and globally connected. His work not only uplifts national scientific capacity but also aligns with global health priorities such as reducing mortality from neglected tropical diseases.

📝Notable Publications

Venomic and F(ab’)₂ antivenomic studies of Bothrops alternatus venom proteins

Author(s): Luciano S. Fusco, Emidio Beraldo-Neto, Juan J. Calvete, Libia Sanz, Laura C. Lanari, Carolina Lorente, Laura C. Leiva, Daniel Pimenta, Adolfo R. de Roodt, Davinia Pla
Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
Year: 2025

Evaluation of a nanostructured CpG-ODN/ascorbyl palmitate as a safe and effective adjuvant for anticrotalic PLA2 serum

Author(s): Luciano S. Fusco, Gisela L. Lopez, Franco Maslovski, Sofía Brignone, María G. Chaves, Juan J. Calvete, Yanet G. Franco, David Hernandez, Andrea Van de Velde, Constanza Marin et al.
Journal: Transactions of The Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
Year: 2025

 Ascorbyl palmitate (ASC16) as a potential inhibitor of toxicity induced by Crotalus durissus terrificus venom

Author(s): Franco Maslovski, Emilio Angelina, María Alonso, Laura Leiva, Luciano Fusco
Journal: Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology Part C: Toxicology & Pharmacology
Year: 2024

Potential low-impact immunogen for the production of anti-bothropic serum: Bothrops alternatus venom treated with Na₂EDTA

Author(s): Gisela Lumila Lopez, Andrea Van de Velde, David Hernández, Soledad Bustillo, Laura Leiva, Luciano Sebastian Fusco
Journal: Toxicon
Year: 2024

 CpG-ODN formulated with a nanostructure as adjuvant for anticrotalic serum production. Studies in mice

Author(s): Luciano S. Fusco, María M. Pascual, David Hernandez, María F. Sánchez Vallecillo, María B. Arrieta, Gabriel Moron, Santiago Palma, Belkys A. Maletto, Laura C. Leiva
Journal: Toxicon
Year: 2022

Mr. Adem Tuncer | organ transplantation | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Adem Tuncer | organ transplantation | Best Researcher Award

Istanbul Aydin University, Turkey

Author Profile

Orchid

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Adem Tunçer’s journey in medicine began with a passion for surgical excellence and a dedication to improving patient outcomes. Born on January 5, 1989, he embarked on his medical education with a vision to contribute meaningfully to healthcare. His early academic years were marked by rigorous training, extensive research, and a keen interest in general surgery.

During his medical studies, Tunçer displayed a strong inclination toward surgical interventions, particularly in complex cases involving hepatic and trauma-related conditions. His inquisitive nature led him to delve deeper into the physiological responses of patients undergoing critical procedures. This curiosity later shaped his academic focus, culminating in his thesis, Evaluation of the Trauma Stress Response in Hepatitis B Patients Undergoing Living Donor Liver Transplantation: A Prospective Case-Control Study (2021). This research was pivotal in understanding how trauma-induced stress affects patients with pre-existing hepatic conditions, providing valuable insights into surgical risk management.

Professional Endeavors 🏥

Upon completing his medical training, Tunçer began his professional career as a General Practitioner at Palu State Hospital (2014–2016). Here, he honed his diagnostic and patient management skills, gaining firsthand experience in addressing a wide range of medical conditions. His tenure at Palu State Hospital reinforced his decision to specialize in surgery, leading him to pursue further academic and professional opportunities.

His next phase involved research-focused roles, first at Ahi Evran University (2016–2017) and later at Inonu University (2017–2022). These years were instrumental in shaping his approach to evidence-based surgery. As a Research Assistant, he contributed to multiple studies focusing on surgical interventions, patient recovery, and the physiological impacts of trauma. Working in an academic environment allowed him to collaborate with leading experts in general surgery, further refining his technical skills and research acumen.

After years of dedicated research and training, Tunçer transitioned into specialist roles. He served as a Specialist Doctor at Tatvan State Hospital (2022–2023) and Bitlis State Hospital (2023–2024), where he performed complex surgical procedures, mentored junior doctors, and actively contributed to hospital-wide surgical advancements. His role in these institutions showcased his ability to integrate research findings into practical applications, ensuring improved surgical outcomes.

In 2024, Tunçer joined Florya Medical Park Hospital, a significant step in his career. Here, he continues to apply his extensive experience in general surgery, focusing on cutting-edge surgical techniques, patient safety, and innovative treatment protocols. His work at Florya Medical Park Hospital not only enhances patient care but also sets a benchmark for surgical excellence in the region.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Tunçer’s research has been pivotal in bridging the gap between surgical practice and academic inquiry. His thesis on the trauma stress response in Hepatitis B patients has contributed to a better understanding of how pre-existing liver conditions influence post-surgical recovery. This study has implications for both surgical planning and postoperative care, helping healthcare professionals adopt more tailored approaches to patient management.

Beyond his thesis, Tunçer has been involved in various research projects focusing on general surgical procedures, patient recovery strategies, and the role of innovative surgical techniques in reducing complications. His contributions to medical literature continue to inform best practices in the field, ensuring that both current and future surgeons benefit from his findings.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Throughout his career, Tunçer has earned the respect of colleagues and medical institutions alike. His dedication to surgical excellence, patient-centered care, and academic contributions have made him a distinguished figure in general surgery. His work has been acknowledged in medical conferences and academic circles, further solidifying his reputation as a leader in the field.

His tenure in multiple hospitals has also earned him recognition for his commitment to improving surgical protocols. Whether through mentorship, research, or direct patient care, his influence extends beyond the operating room. The impact of his studies on hepatic surgery, in particular, has been recognized by peers who seek to implement his findings in their own surgical practices.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Tunçer’s influence extends beyond his immediate professional circle. His work serves as a guiding light for aspiring surgeons, demonstrating the importance of combining clinical practice with research. By integrating scientific inquiry with hands-on surgical experience, he has inspired a new generation of medical professionals to pursue knowledge-driven approaches to patient care.

His impact is also evident in the institutions he has served. Through his contributions, hospitals have enhanced their surgical capabilities, improved patient outcomes, and refined their research methodologies. His presence at Florya Medical Park Hospital marks a new chapter in his career, one where his expertise can further shape surgical advancements on a larger scale.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

As Tunçer continues his journey in the field of general surgery, his legacy is already taking shape. His commitment to excellence, passion for research, and dedication to patient welfare position him as a key figure in the medical community. Looking ahead, he aims to expand his research on surgical stress responses, explore new surgical methodologies, and contribute to medical education by mentoring future surgeons.

His future contributions may also involve collaborative research projects, international surgical training programs, and further innovations in hepatic surgery. As the medical landscape evolves, his expertise will remain invaluable in advancing surgical knowledge and improving healthcare standards.

Through his unwavering dedication, Adem Tunçer is not just a surgeon but a trailblazer in the field—someone whose work continues to inspire and benefit both patients and fellow medical professionals.

📝Notable Publications

Living Donor Liver Transplantation for Iatrogenic Vascular Injury During Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Case Report

Author: Adem Tunçer, Canan Dilay Dirican, Emrah Sahin, Veysel Ersan, Bulent Unal, Abuzer Dirican

Journal: Transplantation Proceedings

Year: 2025

Management of Gallbladder Perforation: A Single Center Clinical Experience

Author: Adem Tunçer, Zeki Öğüt, Ertuğrul Karabulut

Journal: Harran Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi Dergisi

Year: 2025

Effect of Bile on Fatty Liver and Metabolism in Rats

Author: Mehmet Zeki Ogut (including Adem Tunçer)

Journal: Journal of Inonu Liver Transplantation Institute

Year: 2024

Living Donor Liver Transplantation in Patients with Crigler-Najjar Syndrome Type 1: Report of Three Cases

Author: Hasret Ayyildiz Civan (including Adem Tunçer)

Journal: Journal of Inonu Liver Transplantation Institute

Year: 2024

Re-Transplantation in a Pediatric Patient with Hepatorenal Syndrome: A Case Report

Author: Adem Tunçer

Journal: Journal of Inonu Liver Transplantation Institute

Year: 2024

Mr. Ilyas BENKHIRA | Medical | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Ilyas BENKHIRA | Medical | Best Researcher Award

Saad dahlab university of Blida1, Algeria

Profile 

Orcid

🎓Early Academic Pursuits 

Ilyas Benkhira embarked on his academic journey at Saad Dahlab University in Blida, Algeria, where he laid the foundation for his career in Chemical Process Engineering. His Master of Science in Chemical Engineering, completed between 2015 and 2016, was pivotal in shaping his understanding of chemical processes and polymer science. His keen interest in the synthesis and characterization of materials was evident during this period, setting the stage for his subsequent research endeavors.

🧪Professional Endeavors 

Currently, Ilyas is pursuing his Ph.D. in Chemical Process Engineering at Saad Dahlab University. His research focuses on bio-based materials, particularly their applications in the pharmaceutical industry. As a Ph.D. researcher, he is involved in synthesizing and characterizing natural polymers and exploring their synergy with commercial drugs. This work not only enhances his expertise in polymer synthesis but also contributes to advancements in drug design and application.

Ilyas’s experience extends beyond academia into practical applications of his research. His role involves rigorous analysis and problem-solving, essential for advancing the field of chemical process engineering. His proficiency in scientific writing and presentation skills further supports his role as an emerging scholar in his field.

🔬Contributions and Research Focus 

Ilyas’s research is centered on the development and application of bio-based materials, particularly in the context of pharmaceutical applications. His notable project involves the preparation and characterization of amidated pectin-gelatin-oxidized tannic acid hydrogel films, which are enhanced with in-situ reduced silver nanoparticles. This innovative approach is aimed at improving wound-dressing materials, demonstrating his commitment to addressing real-world problems through his research.

His work has been presented at prestigious conferences, including the World Biopolymers & Polymer Chemistry Congress in 2023. During this conference, Ilyas delivered an oral presentation on his development of double cross-linked amidated pectin-gelatin hydrogel films. This presentation highlighted his contribution to advancing material science and its application in medical fields.

🏆Accolades and Recognition 

Although Ilyas is early in his academic career, his work has already garnered attention in the scientific community. His research on bio-based materials and their pharmaceutical applications has been well-received, particularly his innovative approach to material synthesis and characterization. The opportunity to present his research at international conferences underscores the recognition he has achieved within the field.

🌍Impact and Influence 

Ilyas Benkhira’s research has the potential to make a significant impact on both the scientific community and practical applications in medicine. By focusing on bio-based materials and their synergy with commercial drugs, he is contributing to the development of more effective and sustainable pharmaceutical solutions. His work in improving wound-dressing materials through advanced polymer technology is just one example of how his research could benefit various industries and enhance public health.

🚀Legacy and Future Contributions 

As Ilyas progresses in his Ph.D. studies, his future contributions to the field of Chemical Process Engineering are anticipated to be impactful. His ongoing research promises to advance the understanding and application of bio-based materials, potentially leading to new innovations in pharmaceutical technologies. Ilyas’s dedication to improving drug design and material synthesis highlights his commitment to both scientific advancement and practical solutions.

In summary, Ilyas Benkhira’s journey from early academic pursuits to his current research endeavors reflects a trajectory marked by innovation and dedication. His contributions to the field of chemical engineering, particularly in the synthesis of bio-based materials, position him as a promising scholar with the potential for significant future achievements.

Publications 

Preparation and characterization of amidated pectin-gelatin-oxidized tannic acid hydrogel films supplemented with in-situ reduced silver nanoparticles for wound-dressing applications

  • Authors: Ilyas Benkhira, Faiza Zermane, Benamar Cheknane, Djalal Trache, Nicolas Brosse, Annalisa Paolone, Henni Chader, Widad Sobhi
  • Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
  • Year: 2024

 A New Double Cross-Linked Amidated Pectin-Gelatin Hydrogel films Developed With Oxidized Tannic Acid And In Situ Reduced Silver Nanoparticles

  • Authors: Ilyas Benkhira
  • Conference: World Biopolymers & Polymer Chemistry Congress
  • Year: 2023