Ms. Souhir Belloumi | Antibiotics | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Souhir Belloumi | Antibiotics | Best Researcher Award

PhD student at Center of Biotechnology of Borj Cedria,Tunisia

Ms. Souhir Belloumi is a dedicated junior researcher whose work revolves around biological sciences with a significant emphasis on Antibiotics. Her proficiency in medical biotechnology, food preservation, and environmental sciences is reflected in her contributions to Antibiotics innovation and research. She has extensively used Antibiotics knowledge in the assessment of bioactive compounds, emphasizing their roles in microbial inhibition and preservation. Souhir Belloumi’s exposure to diverse laboratory environments provided her with advanced understanding of Antibiotics effects and applications. Her research path is aligned closely with practical implementations of Antibiotics in both food and pharmaceutical contexts. The persistent engagement with Antibiotics studies through international collaborations and peer-reviewed work demonstrates her foundational commitment to this field. Her scientific writing often centers around Antibiotics, exploring novel mechanisms and usage across biological systems. The relevance of Antibiotics in her scientific outputs signifies her awareness of global health challenges. She continuously integrates Antibiotics theory with experimental data to advance sustainable health solutions. Belloumi’s work reflects a conscious focus on Antibiotics resistance, alternatives, and application. Her competence and determination show in how she repeatedly applies Antibiotics-based frameworks for preservation strategies and public health measures. Hence, the trajectory of her work positions Antibiotics at the very core of her professional identity.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Souhir Belloumi's education is built upon a solid foundation in biological sciences, consistently integrating the concept of Antibiotics in her academic endeavors. During her PhD studies at the University of Tunis El-Manar, she worked on projects involving the development of bioactive compounds, where Antibiotics usage and efficacy were regularly assessed. Her two Master's degrees from the University of Carthage expanded her grasp on biomonitoring and environmental systems, with a continual focus on how Antibiotics influence microbial dynamics and environmental health. The integration of Antibiotics in molecular biology research was a recurring theme during her Bachelor's studies at the High Institute of Medical Technologies. Throughout her education, Antibiotics remained central to course projects, lab reports, and literature reviews. Whether examining microbial contamination or studying natural inhibitors, she frequently incorporated Antibiotics perspectives. These academic programs allowed her to explore various dimensions of Antibiotics, such as resistance, effectiveness, and natural alternatives. The intersection of Antibiotics with molecular diagnostics, virology, and ecology shaped much of her lab training. Each stage of her academic progress was marked by increased understanding of Antibiotics mechanisms and applications. This commitment highlights her deep-rooted interest in Antibiotics as a multidisciplinary subject crucial for modern biosciences.

Experience

Souhir Belloumi’s professional journey showcases her long-standing dedication to Antibiotics research, spanning roles in academia and biotech centers. As a Research Scientist at the Laboratory of Bioactive Substances, she led studies exploring natural Antibiotics derived from essential oils, analyzing their efficacy in poultry preservation. She employed Antibiotics-based techniques to evaluate microbial inhibition, developing sustainable methods relevant to the food industry. During her internship at the University of Pisa, she collaborated with global experts on medicinal plants, emphasizing Antibiotics identification using LC-MS/MS. Her work consistently focused on optimizing the application of Antibiotics through analytical tools and biological assays. At the Pasteur Institute of Tunisia, she worked on rabies diagnostics and vaccine development where Antibiotics played a crucial role in bacterial transformations and culture purification. In multiple internships, she investigated viral effects and molecular changes with Antibiotics-based analysis being a critical tool. Her involvement in industrial projects with Poulina Holdings reaffirmed her skill in applying Antibiotics to real-world scenarios. These diverse experiences demonstrate her hands-on capability with Antibiotics and her ability to adapt them in varied biological contexts. Through continuous application, testing, and assessment, Antibiotics has remained the cornerstone of her professional impact and contribution to science.

Research Interest

Souhir Belloumi’s research interest is deeply rooted in the investigation and application of Antibiotics across various biological systems. Her focus areas include food preservation, molecular diagnostics, and environmental biotechnology, all unified through the lens of Antibiotics use and impact. She is particularly intrigued by natural alternatives to synthetic Antibiotics and actively studies the bioactivity of essential oils as potential candidates. Her interest extends to the mechanisms of microbial resistance, where Antibiotics play a central role in her comparative and functional analyses. She engages in research on the molecular pathways affected by Antibiotics and investigates how resistance develops in response to environmental exposure. The role of Antibiotics in virology, especially in terms of secondary bacterial infections, also features in her study areas. Furthermore, she aims to contribute to innovations in Antibiotics applications in agriculture and livestock management. Belloumi’s work reflects a systemic view of Antibiotics as tools for both treatment and prevention. Her integrative research spans compound screening, in-vitro validation, and synergistic effect analysis—all focused on Antibiotics. Her long-term objective is to discover novel Antibiotics and formulate protocols that ensure their efficient, eco-friendly use. Ultimately, her passion for Antibiotics fuels all her academic and professional research directions.

Awards and Honors

Souhir Belloumi has earned multiple recognitions reflecting her advanced skills in biological sciences, especially her focus on Antibiotics. Through international workshops, scientific forums, and institutional programs, she has consistently been honored for her dedication to Antibiotics-based innovations. Her attendance at the GIZ Master-Class in Germany further refined her understanding of non-technical barriers to Antibiotics development. Certification in statistical analysis and QSE system management demonstrates her ability to evaluate Antibiotics efficacy using standardized methods. Her academic institutions have acknowledged her contributions through top-tier placements in Antibiotics research competitions and funding for student projects. Within the scope of her internships and professional contributions, her Antibiotics-centered projects often received commendations for originality and practical relevance. Whether analyzing essential oils or creating diagnostic kits, her methods aligned closely with Antibiotics mechanisms, leading to accolades from research supervisors and collaborators. Her scientific publications on the antibacterial efficacy of natural compounds also brought peer recognition in the Antibiotics research community. These honors validate her persistent commitment to advancing knowledge and technology in the Antibiotics domain. Belloumi’s record of achievements illustrates her prominence in Antibiotics research and the growing appreciation of her work by international networks and academic leaders.

Research Skills

Souhir Belloumi possesses a dynamic suite of research skills, with a prominent focus on Antibiotics. Her laboratory expertise includes molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA extraction and PCR—methods integral for studying Antibiotics interactions with pathogens. She is highly skilled in using LC-MS/MS and GC-MS for compound identification, especially when analyzing Antibiotics properties in bioactive substances. Her practical knowledge of biochemical assays helps determine the antioxidant and Antibiotics profiles of natural products. She applies food analysis techniques to measure the shelf-life extension properties of Antibiotics alternatives in meat preservation. In immunology, her proficiency with ELISA enhances her capacity to monitor the immune response affected by Antibiotics. Her background in virology and microbiology enables a deeper understanding of how Antibiotics modulate host-pathogen dynamics. Belloumi's statistical analysis capabilities support data-driven validation of Antibiotics efficacy. She uses software like GraphPad and Minitab for modeling Antibiotics inhibition curves and synergy tests. Furthermore, her scientific writing skill ensures the clear communication of complex Antibiotics results in academic publications. These diverse and advanced research competencies establish her as a reliable contributor to the field of Antibiotics. Her holistic application of these skills is instrumental in the ongoing development of Antibiotics therapies and resistance management.

Publication

Title: Combined essential oils as natural chicken meat preservatives: chemical composition, biological activities, synergy and shelf-life extension potential
Journal: Food Chemistry
Year: 2025

Conclusion

In conclusion, Souhir Belloumi represents a rising force in the field of biological sciences, with a career centered on the exploration and application of Antibiotics. Her academic training, research experiences, and scientific outputs all converge on the use of Antibiotics in modern health and environmental solutions. From natural compound identification to food safety innovations, her work integrates Antibiotics methodologies in meaningful ways. Her ability to link theory with practical implementation strengthens her standing in the Antibiotics research community. Belloumi's continued pursuit of excellence ensures her contributions to Antibiotics will remain impactful and progressive. Through laboratory precision, critical analysis, and interdisciplinary collaborations, she has built a profile deeply embedded in Antibiotics exploration. As she advances her career, her consistent focus on Antibiotics will no doubt lead to breakthroughs in resistance management, preservation technologies, and therapeutic innovations. Her publications and awards already reflect her influential presence in the Antibiotics landscape. In every project she undertakes, Antibiotics remain central—demonstrating her vision of science as a tool for health improvement and sustainable development. Therefore, her journey affirms the importance and future of Antibiotics in addressing global scientific challenges.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Adelaida Lamas Ferreiro | Antibiotic | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Adelaida Lamas Ferreiro | Antibiotic | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Ramon y Cajal University Hospital, Madrid, Spain

Adelaida Lamas Ferreiro has built a distinguished career in pediatric pulmonology with a focus on cystic fibrosis and infectious respiratory diseases. Throughout her professional timeline, her pioneering efforts in the study and application of Antibiotic therapies have made significant impacts on clinical outcomes. Her leadership in both hospital settings and international consortia has cemented her role in optimizing Antibiotic use in cystic fibrosis care. She has evaluated Antibiotic efficiency in respiratory complications and promoted Antibiotic stewardship in pediatric medicine. With more than 50 clinical trials and academic projects centered on Antibiotic strategies, Adelaida’s research continuously reinforces Antibiotic relevance in managing chronic pulmonary conditions, particularly within vulnerable pediatric populations requiring advanced Antibiotic interventions.

Professional Profile 

Google Scholar

Education

Adelaida Lamas holds a Ph.D. in Medicine and Surgery from Universidad Autónoma de Madrid with academic excellence in pediatric sedation monitoring. Her postgraduate qualifications include a master’s degree in pulmonology unit management and another in clinical hospital administration. From early stages, her education was deeply influenced by studies on Antibiotic action in pulmonary systems. She has pursued extensive training on Antibiotic pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and Antibiotic mechanisms of resistance. Her international clinical rotations emphasized Antibiotic treatment in cystic fibrosis, reinforcing her expertise in tailoring Antibiotic protocols. Her educational path consistently aligned with evolving Antibiotic research, translating her academic groundwork into high-impact Antibiotic clinical methodologies.

Experience

Dr. Adelaida Lamas has held numerous clinical roles from pediatrician to consultant specialist in cystic fibrosis and pediatric pulmonology. Over three decades, she has directly engaged in Antibiotic regimen development, Antibiotic response analysis, and inpatient/outpatient Antibiotic monitoring. She has collaborated on national Antibiotic protocols and served as a senior advisor for pediatric Antibiotic clinical trials. She spearheaded multidisciplinary teams addressing Antibiotic efficacy in chronic lung infections. Her long-standing presence at the Ramón y Cajal University Hospital included management of patients under high-risk Antibiotic therapies. Her career reflects an unwavering commitment to maximizing Antibiotic utility through evidence-based approaches, influencing global Antibiotic practices.

Research Interest

Adelaida’s research focuses primarily on cystic fibrosis, pediatric lung diseases, and the development of advanced Antibiotic protocols. Her investigative work has examined the influence of inhaled and systemic Antibiotic agents on microbial resistance, with a special interest in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and MRSA strains. She has evaluated biofilm formation suppression using tailored Antibiotic therapies. Her publications address therapeutic challenges posed by Antibiotic resistance in CF patients. Additionally, she explores Antibiotic rotation strategies and novel delivery systems for pediatric populations. Her evolving research underscores Antibiotic relevance in chronic infection modulation, driving forward pediatric pulmonary care innovations via adaptive Antibiotic strategies.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her career, Adelaida has received national and international recognition for her work in Antibiotic research. She was awarded for her contributions to improving Antibiotic application in cystic fibrosis treatment. Her doctoral thesis earned the “Dra. Juana Román First Prize” for excellence in pediatric medicine and Antibiotic safety analysis. She served as principal advisor in the Spanish national Antibiotic positioning reports. As a respected voice in Antibiotic advisory boards and task forces, she influenced policy-making and regulatory evaluations of pediatric Antibiotic use. Her honors reflect a profound contribution to scientific understanding and clinical integration of Antibiotic therapies in respiratory medicine.

Research Skills

Adelaida’s skill set includes designing, conducting, and supervising Antibiotic trials and interventions for pediatric lung diseases. She employs techniques to evaluate Antibiotic resistance, optimize dosage, and analyze pharmacological responses. Her work integrates bioinformatics, molecular diagnostics, and microbiological cultures to assess Antibiotic impact in real time. She is adept in critically appraising clinical literature on Antibiotic therapy and translating findings into bedside protocols. Her proficiency in ethical evaluation of Antibiotic use in vulnerable groups is evident from her role in national ethics committees. These multidisciplinary capabilities solidify her role as a leader in Antibiotic clinical innovation and translational application.

Publications

  • Title: Impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with cystic fibrosis in Spain: Incidence and results of the national CF-COVID19-Spain survey
    Authors: P. Mondejar-Lopez, E. Quintana-Gallego, R.M. Giron-Moreno, et al.
    Journal: Respiratory Medicine, Vol. 170, Article 106062, 2020

  • Title: Insulin resistance, β-cell dysfunction and differences in curves of plasma glucose and insulin in the intermediate points of the standard glucose tolerance test in adults with cystic fibrosis
    Authors: M.C. Megías, O.G. Albarrán, P.G. Vasco, A.L. Ferreiro, L.M. Carro
    Journal: Endocrinología y Nutrición (English Edition), Vol. 62(2), Pages 91–99, 2015

  • Title: A comprehensive evaluation of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in cystic fibrosis patients using lipidomics
    Authors: Ó. Pastor, P. Guzmán-Lafuente, J. Serna, M. Muñoz-Hernández, A.L. Neyra, et al.
    Journal: The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, Vol. 63, Pages 197–205, 2019

  • Title: Protocol for the diagnosis and follow up of patients with cystic fibrosis
    Author: S. Gartner
    Journal: Anales de Pediatría (Barcelona, Spain: 2003), Vol. 71(3), Pages 250–264, 2009

  • Title: Tolerance of two inhaled hypertonic saline solutions in patients with cystic fibrosis
    Authors: L.M. Carro, A.L. Ferreiro, M.R. de Valbuena Maiz, C.W. Struwing, G.G. Álvarez, et al.
    Journal: Medicina Clínica, Vol. 138(2), Pages 57–59, 2012

Conclusion

Adelaida Lamas remains an influential force in pediatric medicine, with her legacy deeply rooted in Antibiotic innovation. Her strategic insights and practical applications of Antibiotic therapies have improved care standards, particularly for cystic fibrosis patients. Her work bridges academic excellence and clinical precision, ensuring Antibiotic efficacy against evolving microbial threats. She is recognized not only for her scientific achievements but also for her mentorship in Antibiotic clinical research. Her enduring contributions ensure the continual advancement of Antibiotic science, affirming its central role in child health and respiratory care. Adelaida’s lifelong dedication to Antibiotic research sets a benchmark for future medical leaders.

Bidyut Matubber – Antibiotic – Best Researcher Award

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Bidyut Matubber - Antibiotic - Best Researcher Award

Khulna Agricultural University - Bangladesh

AUTHOR PROFILE

GOOGLE SCHOLAR 

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 🎓

Dr. Bidyut Matubber’s academic foundation is deeply rooted in veterinary public health and food hygiene. He completed his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in 2017 from Patuakhali Science and Technology University, securing a commendable CGPA of 3.74. Demonstrating his passion for advanced learning, he pursued a Master of Veterinary Public Health and Food Hygiene with a major in Antimicrobial Resistance, graduating with a perfect CGPA of 4.00 in 2019. These formative years reflect a consistent commitment to academic excellence and laid the groundwork for his specialization in food microbiology. During his master's tenure, Dr. Matubber actively participated in hands-on research activities, including antibiogram studies and chromatographic analysis. His academic environment exposed him to a multidisciplinary research setting, fostering a deeper understanding of microbiological threats in food systems. This exposure played a pivotal role in shaping his career and interest in public health. With a solid base in microbiology, statistics, and biosafety, he was well-prepared to address complex public health concerns, particularly those linked to antimicrobial resistance. His early academic journey was not just a pursuit of degrees but a strategic investment toward a research-intensive future in veterinary science and food safety, setting the stage for his impactful contributions.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 🧪

Dr. Bidyut Matubber’s professional career commenced with a focused approach toward academia and applied research. Since November 2020, he has been serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Public Health at Khulna Agricultural University. In this role, he spearheads research on antimicrobial resistance and chemical residues in food items such as meat and milk. His work extends to critical extension activities, strengthening collaboration between universities, research institutions, and livestock farmers. His contributions aim to bridge the gap between scientific discoveries and practical applications in food safety. Prior to this, Dr. Matubber held the position of Master Research Fellow at his alma mater, where he honed his research skills in statistical software such as SPSS and R. He has also undergone extensive training in laboratory biosafety, surveillance, foot-and-mouth disease investigation, and herd production management. These multidimensional experiences enrich his capacity as both a researcher and educator. Dr. Matubber is not confined to the laboratory; his outreach and on-ground surveys enable him to assess real-world challenges faced by food handlers and animal health workers. His professional endeavors reflect a dynamic balance between rigorous research and meaningful community engagement, ensuring relevance and impact in every project he undertakes.

RESEARCH CONTRIBUTIONS AND FOCUS 🔬

Dr. Bidyut Matubber’s research trajectory is anchored in the critical domains of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), food microbiology, and public health. His work scrutinizes the presence of antibiotic resistance and chemical residues in livestock products — particularly meat and milk — in southern Bangladesh. His findings have been published in several reputable national and international journals, reinforcing his reputation as a dedicated scientific voice in the food safety sector. Notably, his recent studies explore the microbial contamination of street foods and the prevalence of multidrug-resistant pathogens in urban meat markets. These investigations have significant implications for public health, especially in developing countries grappling with poor food hygiene infrastructure. Dr. Matubber is also a contributing author in interdisciplinary topics, ranging from student mental health during online learning to reproductive issues in livestock. His collaborative research style has earned him co-authorship with international scholars and local experts, highlighting the diverse scope of his academic inquiries. Moreover, his work on biofilm resistance in farm industries and the evaluation of organic acid alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters reflect his forward-thinking approach. Altogether, his research contributions aim not just to describe problems but to offer actionable, evidence-based solutions in public health microbiology.

AWARDS AND RECOGNITION 🏆

Dr. Bidyut Matubber’s exemplary contributions to veterinary public health and food microbiology have been widely acknowledged through prestigious accolades. He was awarded the NST Research Fellowship (2019) by the Ministry of Science and Technology, Bangladesh — a competitive grant that recognized his potential in the field of antimicrobial resistance. In 2020, he won the Best Poster Presentation Award at the 3rd Annual Scientific Conference organized by the Coastal Vet Society of Bangladesh, showcasing his ability to communicate research effectively to scientific audiences. Further acknowledging his innovation and commitment, the Ministry of Science and Technology honored him with the Technology Invention, Research, and Development Project (R&D) grants in both 2021 and 2022. Perhaps most significantly, he received the Best Researcher Award (2022) from the Khulna Agricultural University Teacher’s Association for his outstanding scholarly accomplishments. These accolades are not just ceremonial; they are powerful affirmations of Dr. Matubber’s enduring influence in microbiology and public health research. They reflect his relentless pursuit of scientific excellence, impactful community engagement, and forward-looking research that addresses urgent food safety challenges in Bangladesh. Each award underlines a milestone in his evolving career, cementing his place as a key thought leader in his domain.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 🌍

Dr. Matubber's research has far-reaching implications for public health policy and food safety in Bangladesh. His work on antimicrobial resistance in meat and milk serves as a wake-up call for food safety regulators and veterinary policymakers. By highlighting the presence of drug-resistant bacteria in widely consumed animal products, his studies provide a critical evidence base for shaping food inspection protocols and public awareness campaigns. Beyond his published findings, Dr. Matubber plays a pivotal role in academic and field-level training, educating young researchers and practitioners about biosafety, food hygiene, and AMR surveillance. His influence also extends into interdisciplinary domains, as seen in his co-authored work on student anxiety during e-learning and reproductive health in livestock. Dr. Matubber's ability to synthesize data into policy-relevant recommendations amplifies his impact beyond academia. As a faculty member, he actively mentors future scientists and contributes to the university's knowledge-sharing platforms. His integrated approach — combining lab research, fieldwork, teaching, and publication — creates a ripple effect of influence across public health, education, and rural livelihoods. Through conferences, training programs, and collaborative networks, Dr. Matubber continues to shape not only scientific discourse but also the operational realities of food safety and veterinary health in Bangladesh.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS 🔭

Dr. Bidyut Matubber’s academic journey and professional milestones lay the foundation for a legacy marked by scientific integrity, community relevance, and transformative impact. Looking ahead, he is poised to expand his research into broader themes like the environmental reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance, molecular epidemiology, and climate-linked zoonotic diseases. His ongoing projects involving the contamination levels in street food and multidrug-resistant pathogens in meats are likely to evolve into larger surveillance frameworks with regional or national scope. Moreover, Dr. Matubber envisions integrating genomic tools and AI-driven analytics into his research to better understand resistance mechanisms. As a faculty member, he aims to establish a specialized research hub within Khulna Agricultural University that focuses on foodborne pathogens and antibiotic resistance. His long-term goals include mentoring doctoral candidates and fostering international research collaborations, particularly in South Asia and Southeast Asia. With his background in both laboratory and field-based research, Dr. Matubber is ideally positioned to contribute to global initiatives like the WHO's One Health framework. His legacy will not only be defined by his publications or awards, but by the structural improvements he brings to food safety systems, academic training, and public health policies in Bangladesh and beyond.

SUMMARY OF ACHIEVEMENTS 🧾

Dr. Bidyut Matubber is a dynamic academic, microbiologist, and public health researcher based at Khulna Agricultural University. With over five years of expertise in food microbiology and antimicrobial resistance, his work has led to impactful research on contamination in meat, milk, and street foods across southern Bangladesh. He has co-authored numerous papers in reputed journals, participated in national training programs, and successfully acquired competitive grants. His professional tenure includes key roles as an Assistant Professor and Master Research Fellow, underscoring a consistent trajectory of growth. Recognized for both scientific innovation and practical relevance, he has received prestigious awards, including the NST Research Fellowship and the Best Researcher Award by his university. His research has informed public policy and raised awareness about food safety issues in underserved communities. By combining rigorous lab work, strategic field outreach, and teaching excellence, Dr. Matubber exemplifies a researcher whose work transcends academia to affect real-world change. His story is one of perseverance, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a passionate commitment to improving health outcomes through science.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

  • Title: Anxiety and its determinants among undergraduate students during E-learning in Bangladesh amid COVID-19
    Authors: MN Hoque, A Hannan, S Imran, MA Alam, B Matubber, SM Saha
    Journal: Journal of Affective Disorders Reports, Volume 6, Article 100241, 2021

 

  • Title: Factors associated with food safety knowledge and practices among meat handlers in Bangladesh: a cross-sectional study
    Authors: MH Al Banna, TR Disu, S Kundu, BO Ahinkorah, K Brazendale, AA Seidu, ...
    Journal: Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine, Volume 26, Article 84, 2021

 

  • Title: Pernicious attitude of microbial biofilms in agri-farm industries: Acquisitions and challenges of existing antibiofilm approaches
    Authors: SH Toushik, A Roy, M Alam, UH Rahman, NK Nath, S Nahar, B Matubber, ...
    Journal: Microorganisms, Volume 10, Issue 12, Article 2348, 2022

 

  • Title: Evaluation of different parameters in relation to repeat breeding of cows at the coastal areas of Bangladesh
    Authors: B Matubber, AK Paul, S Das
    Journal: Research in Agriculture Livestock and Fisheries, Volume 5, Issue 1, Pages 49–55, 2018

 

  • Title: Antibiotic resistance and residue in chicken, cattle, buffalo and goat meats in different southern districts of Bangladesh
    Authors: B Matubber, FI Rume, MEH Kayesh, MM Rahman, MR Amin, MA Asgar, ...
    Journal: Asian-Australasian Journal of Food Safety and Security, Volume 5, Issue 1, Pages 19–26, 2021

Charlene Pillay – Antibiotic – Best Researcher Award

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Charlene Pillay - Antibiotic - Best Researcher Award

Durban University of Technology - South Africa 

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID

🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Charlene Pillay’s academic journey began at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, where she pursued a passion for microbiology, culminating in a PhD in 2012. Her doctoral thesis focused on microbiologically influenced corrosion—an intersection of microbiology and material science—under the guidance of Professor Johnson Lin. This work explored the impact of nitrate sources on steel corrosion in simulated systems, laying a strong foundation for her future research interests. She earlier completed her MSc, BSc Honours, and BSc in Microbiology at the same institution. These academic milestones not only reflect her dedication but also shaped her into a specialist with deep-rooted scientific curiosity. Her early academic accomplishments were punctuated by significant research, blending microbiology with environmental and industrial applications. This robust educational background has since served as the bedrock of her teaching and research endeavors. Driven by curiosity and scholarly discipline, Dr. Pillay’s academic formation set the tone for a prolific scientific career.

👩‍🔬 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS IN EDUCATION

Currently serving as a Senior Lecturer at Durban University of Technology (DUT), Dr. Charlene Pillay is deeply engaged in academic mentorship, curriculum development, and student supervision. Since 2015, she has delivered lectures, coordinated work-integrated learning, and facilitated essential industry-academic linkages. Her role extends beyond the classroom, involving the academic supervision of students placed in industrial settings, thus reinforcing experiential learning. Before joining DUT, she held various teaching and technical positions at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, including AdHoc Lecturer roles in Bacteriology and Advanced Bacteriology, and a stint as Laboratory Technician. These roles helped her develop both instructional expertise and technical skills crucial in laboratory education. Her teaching philosophy blends theory with hands-on experience, equipping students with a holistic understanding of microbiology. Through her academic contributions, she has established herself as a dynamic educator committed to nurturing future scientists and bridging academia with real-world applications in biosciences.

🧪 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Dr. Pillay’s research focus reflects a unique synergy between microbiology, corrosion science, and ethnopharmacology. Initially concentrated on microbiologically influenced corrosion, her scholarly journey evolved to include antimicrobial research, bioremediation, and computational drug discovery using traditional medicinal plants. She has supervised numerous Honours and Master’s research projects addressing diverse topics such as bacterial modulation, type 2 diabetes therapy, soil bioremediation, and plant-based antimicrobial agents. Her publication portfolio spans high-impact journals like Archives of Microbiology, BMC Genomics, and Metabolites, showcasing work on quorum sensing modulators, gut microbiome studies, and therapeutic validation of plant-derived compounds. Notably, her interdisciplinary investigations bridge computational modeling with in vitro validations. Dr. Pillay’s research significantly contributes to understanding microbial behavior, the utility of plant secondary metabolites in health, and sustainable biomedical solutions. Her work remains rooted in addressing real-world health challenges through science-driven innovation, positioning her as a leading voice in applied microbiological research.

🏆 ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITION

Dr. Charlene Pillay’s scholarly excellence has earned her multiple accolades that underscore her research impact and scientific promise. She received the prestigious Ivan Oligvie Award from the Corrosion Institute of Southern Africa in 2008 for her early work in corrosion science. In 2009, she was honored with the SASM-Bio2Biz Travel Award, followed by a local conference travel award from the Faculty of Science and Agriculture at UKZN in 2011. These recognitions mark pivotal moments in her career, affirming the quality and relevance of her research. Beyond formal awards, her consistent publication record in reputable scientific outlets and active participation in interdisciplinary research teams further validate her professional standing. Through her collaborative work with colleagues like Professors Sabiu and Lin, Dr. Pillay continues to earn respect in both academic and applied science spheres. Her accolades reflect not only academic merit but also her growing influence as a respected contributor in microbiological and biomedical sciences.

🌿 IMPACT THROUGH SCIENTIFIC INNOVATION

Dr. Pillay's research has profound implications for environmental sustainability and public health, particularly through her investigations into plant-based therapeutics and microbial ecology. By integrating traditional medicinal knowledge with modern cheminformatics, she contributes to the discovery of bioactive compounds with the potential to combat non-communicable diseases like diabetes. Her studies on plant secondary metabolites, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, are pivotal in developing alternative therapeutic strategies. Likewise, her research into bacterial biofilms and quorum sensing provides critical insights into managing antimicrobial resistance. The environmental aspect of her work—focusing on biodegradation of contaminants and soil microbiome dynamics—highlights her commitment to ecological well-being. These innovative approaches not only advance scientific understanding but also propose sustainable, low-cost healthcare and environmental solutions. Her work inspires future scientists to pursue research with tangible societal benefits, thereby enhancing her broader impact across academic, medical, and ecological domains.

👥 MENTORSHIP AND SCHOLARLY INFLUENCE

As a postgraduate supervisor, Dr. Charlene Pillay has significantly shaped the next generation of microbiologists and biomedical researchers. Her mentorship extends to BTech, Honours, and Master's students, with projects spanning from bioremediation techniques to computational drug modeling. She is known for encouraging innovation and critical thinking, guiding students through complex scientific methods and interdisciplinary topics. Many of her mentees have focused on real-world challenges such as antimicrobial resistance, plant-based drug development, and gut microbiome studies. Her mentorship fosters independence and scientific rigor, qualities evident in the student theses she has overseen. Through these scholarly interactions, she cultivates a research culture grounded in curiosity, integrity, and relevance. Her influence extends beyond academia into healthcare and biotechnology industries via her well-trained graduates. This legacy of mentorship underscores her dual role as both educator and enabler, investing in people as passionately as she invests in scientific exploration.

🔮 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Charlene Pillay envisions a legacy rooted in transformative science and inclusive education. Her ambition to become a full professor with a thriving cohort of successful postgraduates reflects her long-term dedication to academic leadership. With aspirations to secure major research funding, she aims to expand her work in ethnopharmacology and microbial pathogenesis, focusing on groundbreaking, plant-based interventions for global health challenges. Her evolving research portfolio suggests forthcoming contributions in personalized medicine, antimicrobial strategies, and microbial genomics. As a thought leader in integrating traditional knowledge with modern science, she continues to set new standards for interdisciplinary research. Dr. Pillay’s legacy is one of innovation, mentorship, and impact—building bridges between past wisdom and future science. Her future contributions are poised to influence not only academia but also public health policy, environmental management, and scientific education, making her a pivotal figure in the global scientific community.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Title: A metagenomic investigation of the faecal RNA virome structure of asymptomatic chickens obtained from a commercial farm in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa
Authors: Nwokorogu, Vivian C.; Pillai, Santhosh; San, James E.; Pillay, Charlene; Nyaga, Martin M.; Sabiu, Saheed
Journal: BMC Genomics (2024)

Title: Cheminformatics Identification and Validation of Dipeptidyl Peptidase-IV Modulators from Shikimate Pathway-Derived Phenolic Acids towards Interventive Type-2 Diabetes Therapy
Authors: Balogun, Fatai Oladunni; Naidoo, Kaylene; Aribisala, Jamiu Olaseni; Pillay, Charlene; Sabiu, Saheed
Journal: Metabolites (2022)

Title: Identification of Flavonoid C-Glycosides as Promising Antidiabetics Targeting Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B
Authors: Rampadarath, Athika; Balogun, Fatai Oladunni; Pillay, Charlene; Sabiu, Saheed
Journal: Journal of Diabetes Research (2022)

Title: Poultry gut health - microbiome functions, environmental impacts, microbiome engineering and advancements in characterization technologies
Authors: Aruwa, Christiana Eleojo; Pillay, Charlene; Nyaga, Martin M.; Sabiu, Saheed
Journal: Journal of Animal Science and Biotechnology (2021)

Title: The impact of additional nitrates in mild steel corrosion in a seawater/sediment system
Authors: Pillay, Charlene; Lin, Johnson
Journal: Corrosion Science (2014)