Dr. Elham Kazemirad | Treatment for Infectious Diseases | Excellence in Research

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Dr. Elham Kazemirad | Treatment for Infectious Diseases | Excellence in Research

Associate Professor at Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran

Dr. Elham Kazemirad is a renowned Associate Professor at the Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Her research bridges clinical and molecular diagnostics, with a central focus on Treatment for Infectious Diseases. Over the years, her contributions have emphasized Treatment for Infectious Diseases across leishmaniasis, Acanthamoeba keratitis, and protozoan infections. Her work consistently explores innovative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies, reinforcing global capabilities in Treatment for Infectious Diseases. With a dynamic presence in academia, she has dedicated her career to advancing Treatment for Infectious Diseases through cutting-edge molecular biology, gene expression studies, and nanoparticle drug delivery. Dr. Kazemirad’s leadership and research continue shaping new pathways for Treatment for Infectious Diseases in both clinical and research settings.

Professional Profile 

ORCID | Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Kazemirad holds a Ph.D., M.Sc., B.Sc., and Associate Degree in Medical Parasitology and Laboratory Sciences, all from top Iranian medical universities. Her Ph.D. thesis pioneered gene profiling in Leishmania tropica and explored mechanisms of drug resistance, directly contributing to Treatment for Infectious Diseases. Throughout her academic path, Treatment for Infectious Diseases remained a core theme, evident in her early thesis on PCR diagnostics and parasite detection. Her educational foundation was rigorously rooted in scientific innovation and clinical relevance, always aimed at improving Treatment for Infectious Diseases. This background has propelled her to become a thought leader whose educational milestones support groundbreaking discoveries in the Treatment for Infectious Diseases field.

Experience

Dr. Kazemirad has served as an Assistant and Associate Professor, and lab supervisor, contributing significantly to Treatment for Infectious Diseases . Her clinical laboratory leadership includes molecular diagnosis of parasitic diseases, microbial keratitis, and more, always reinforcing effective Treatment for Infectious Diseases. She combines teaching, clinical, and administrative roles to shape future parasitologists and advance diagnostics. At both Tehran University of Medical Sciences and Pasteur Institute of Iran, her dedication has been a cornerstone in Treatment for Infectious Diseases. She mentors students and leads research initiatives that redefine how Treatment for Infectious Diseases is applied and understood across academic, diagnostic, and healthcare platforms.

Research Interest

Dr. Kazemirad’s primary research interests center on drug resistance mechanisms, molecular diagnostics, and nanomedicine all critical for effective Treatment for Infectious Diseases. Her passion for Treatment for Infectious Diseases drives projects involving gene expression in pathogens and the development of novel therapeutics. With expertise in biotechnology, immunology, and phylogenetics, she investigates the molecular basis of resistance and innovative drug delivery systems. Treatment for Infectious Diseases is not only her research focus but her mission. By integrating bioinformatics, molecular assays, and nanoparticle therapeutics, her research contributes vital knowledge and practical tools to improve Treatment for Infectious Diseases, especially among vulnerable and immunocompromised populations.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Kazemirad has been consistently recognized for her academic excellence and innovation in Treatment for Infectious Diseases. She was ranked first in multiple academic programs and received distinctions for her graduate work in drug-resistant Leishmania. Her work in Treatment for Infectious Diseases has been honored through leadership roles in scientific congresses and editorial positions in top journals. These honors reflect her relentless commitment to advancing Treatment for Infectious Diseases through translational research and public health applications. The prestigious recognition from both Iranian and international institutions underscores her profound impact on Treatment for Infectious Diseases and her standing as a key contributor in parasitological and biomedical sciences.

Research Skills

Dr. Kazemirad is proficient in molecular diagnostics, gene expression analysis, animal modeling, and nanoparticle-based therapeutics, all pivotal for enhancing Treatment for Infectious Diseases. Her skill set includes advanced techniques such as RT-PCR, Western blotting, cloning, proteomics, ELISA, gene silencing, and next-generation sequencing. Each technique is applied to understand, monitor, and improve Treatment for Infectious Diseases. Her expertise extends to developing diagnostic platforms for Acanthamoeba and Leishmania, along with testing novel compounds and nanoparticles. Treatment for Infectious Diseases is the core of her methodological approach, combining lab innovation with clinical relevance to transform how these diseases are managed and treated across diverse populations.

Publications

Title: Contribution of epidermal growth factor (EGF) in the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania major in BALB/c mice
Authors: Saberi, M.; Latifi, A.; Golkar, M.; Fard-Esfahani, P.; Mohtasebi, S.; Teimouri, A.; Afshar, M.J.A.; Kazemirad, E.; Mohebali, M.
Journal: PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases

Title: High Prevalence of Enterocytozoon bieneusi Genotype BEB6 in Wild Boars in Lorestan Province, Iran: Potential Source of Zoonotic Transmission
Authors: Javanmard, E.; Mohammad Rahimi, H.; Taghipour, A.; Nemati, S.; Mohebali, M.; Rezaeian, M.; Badrifar, A.; Kazemirad, E.; Mirjalali, H.
Journal: Iranian Journal of Parasitology

Title: Molecular Identification of Nematodes (Superfamily: Strongylida) Traced in Herbivores Excrement in the Wildlife from Western Iran
Authors: Vafaei, M.R.; Safaie, M.; Kazemirad, E.; Mirjalali, H.; Askari, Z.; Mohebali, M.; Mowlavi, G.
Journal: SSRN

Title: Prevalence of free-living amoebae in five rivers associated with high human activity in Tehran province, Iran
Authors: Javanmard, E.; Kazemirad, E.; Rahimi, H.M.; Mohebali, M.; Rezaeian, M.; Alimohammadi, M.; Mirjalali, H.
Journal: Journal of Water and Health

Title: Transcriptional alterations of virulence factors in Leishmania major clinical isolates harboring Leishmania RNA virus 2 (LRV2)
Authors: Sabeti, S.; Koosha, M.; Kazemirad, E.; Mirabedini, Z.; Mohebali, M.; Saberi, R.; Fakhar, M.; Hajjaran, H.
Journal: BMC Infectious Diseases

CONCLUSION

Dr. Elham Kazemirad’s career epitomizes dedication to the Treatment for Infectious Diseases. Through her education, research, and professional engagements, she has elevated global understanding of parasitic diseases and their therapies. Her work integrates basic science and clinical innovation to offer novel solutions for Treatment for Infectious Diseases. From academic contributions to pioneering diagnostics and therapies, her impact is profound and ongoing. She remains a key influencer in shaping policies, mentoring future scientists, and leading research that targets resistant pathogens. As Treatment for Infectious Diseases continues to challenge global health, her expertise remains vital in guiding next-generation therapeutic advancements and public health solutions.

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.

Moncef Chouaibi – Treatment for Infectious Diseases – Best Academic Researcher Award

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Moncef Chouaibi - Treatment for Infectious Diseases - Best Academic Researcher Award 

Higher School of Food Industries of Tunis - Tunisia

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID

🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Professor Moncef Chouaïbi's academic journey reflects a strong foundation in mathematical sciences and food engineering. He began with a Bachelor of Mathematics from 1996 to 2000, which laid the groundwork for his analytical approach in later scientific explorations. He pursued an engineering diploma, master’s, and ultimately a PhD in Food Industries between 2000 and 2013 from the University of Carthage and the University of Salerno. His doctoral studies focused on food engineering and preservation technologies, critical to public health, especially in regions facing foodborne infections. During these formative years, he developed a keen interest in the optimization of extraction processes, thermal food treatment, and encapsulation of bioactive compounds—techniques that today underpin innovations in antimicrobial food systems. His early academic path emphasized both theoretical mastery and applied research, equipping him with the scientific literacy and lab-based expertise to address complex problems in food safety and infectious disease management. His studies incorporated methodologies that enhance food functionality while limiting pathogen transmission—a core concern in infectious disease control. This period was not just a phase of learning but also a springboard for his later contributions to microbiologically safe and nutritionally enhanced food products.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS IN FOOD SCIENCE

Since the early stages of his career, Professor Chouaïbi has devoted himself to the advancement of food engineering with a strong focus on safety, stability, and nutrition. Starting as a Senior Research Fellow in Tunis and later in Salerno, Italy, he quickly transitioned into academic leadership as an Assistant Professor and eventually as a full Professor at the Higher School of Food Industries of Tunis. His teaching and mentoring have supported a new generation of scientists, but it is his research that sets him apart. He has actively explored the use of natural preservatives, bioactive components, and rheological food properties to improve food quality and safety. This work is especially relevant in developing countries where infectious diseases are often exacerbated by compromised food systems. By modeling heat and mass transfer, Professor Chouaïbi has helped design preservation techniques that reduce microbial load in food, directly contributing to infectious disease prevention. He has also collaborated with biotechnology and food chemistry experts to create functional foods that boost immune responses. His hands-on approach and strategic focus on real-world applications of food science make his professional journey a beacon for interdisciplinary innovation in nutrition and public health.

🧬 RESEARCH ON FUNCTIONAL FOODS & BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS

Professor Moncef Chouaïbi has established himself as a pioneering researcher in the field of functional foods and bioactive compound extraction. His studies on antioxidant-rich oils, including those derived from pumpkin, celery, and Zizyphus lotus, demonstrate his commitment to exploring nature-derived solutions to public health challenges. Many of these compounds, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, have demonstrated antimicrobial and antiviral properties, making them potential adjuncts in infectious disease treatment. His innovative work on encapsulation technology—particularly nanoemulsions and double emulsions—has enabled targeted delivery of these compounds, enhancing their stability and efficacy. These advances have broad implications in the management of bacterial and viral foodborne illnesses, especially in vulnerable populations. His research is widely published in high-impact journals, evidencing both depth and breadth. Through projects like yogurt fortified with inulin or camel milk enhanced with probiotics, he combines scientific rigor with nutritional foresight. His exploration of shelf-life enhancement and preservation methods directly addresses contamination and disease spread in perishable goods. Such applications play a crucial role in food systems resilience against pathogens, including those that cause enteric infections. His work positions food not only as sustenance but as a strategic platform for disease intervention.

🧫 ADVANCES IN INFECTIOUS DISEASE TREATMENT VIA FOOD SCIENCE

Professor Chouaïbi's contributions have extended beyond traditional food science into the realm of infectious disease treatment and prevention. His application of bioactive-rich emulsions and coatings—such as thyme essential oil encapsulation and almond gum films—offers a sustainable, chemical-free alternative to conventional disinfectants. These formulations are especially effective against microbial spoilage and contamination, which are common vectors for infectious disease transmission through food. His collaborations have resulted in yogurt enriched with antimicrobial agents and functional cheeses with targeted probiotic properties, both of which support gastrointestinal health and immunological defense. His work on modeling urease activity reduction in soybean meals and optimizing drying processes has clinical relevance in reducing pathogen viability. Furthermore, his patents on emulsifiers and encapsulation systems are setting new standards in controlled delivery of anti-pathogenic agents. As diseases evolve and antibiotic resistance grows, the integration of food engineering in the fight against infections becomes increasingly vital. Through his food-based biotechnological innovations, Professor Chouaïbi is contributing practical tools that align nutrition with infection control, reinforcing the interdisciplinary bridge between food technology and public health.

📚 EDITORIAL AND SCHOLARLY IMPACT

Beyond research and teaching, Professor Chouaïbi holds influential editorial roles in several international journals including Discover Food, Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization, and Frontiers in Materials. These positions affirm his global recognition as an authority in food engineering. His role as guest editor and board member enables him to shape emerging discourses around sustainable food systems, food safety, and biofunctional ingredients. He has authored multiple books and book chapters that explore food preservation technologies, phytochemicals, and encapsulation techniques—many of which serve as reference texts in food and nutrition science. His scholarly contributions provide critical frameworks for understanding how food technology can mitigate microbial risks. Through peer review and journal leadership, he fosters innovation, ensures scientific rigor, and promotes cross-border collaborations. This academic leadership enhances not just his personal standing but also the integrity and visibility of food science research in developing infectious disease interventions. By mentoring young scientists and influencing research directions globally, Professor Chouaïbi multiplies his impact, ensuring the continuity and evolution of science-based solutions to pressing health threats.

🏆 HONORS, PATENTS & INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS

Professor Moncef Chouaïbi’s excellence has been acknowledged through various honors, patents, and extensive international engagements. He is a patent holder for technologies including novel emulsifiers for drug delivery and food coating systems with bioactive properties, which support food safety and infectious disease mitigation. These innovations provide scalable solutions for controlling contamination in food supply chains. His scientific influence spans across borders with collaborative research in Italy, Japan, and across North Africa. Participation in international conferences—from the Euro-Global Conference on Food Science to Japan-Tunisia symposia—underscores his reputation as a global expert. His patented work on the use of natural polymers and biopolymers in preserving food integrity has found use in both academic and industrial settings. These achievements not only validate his research but also position his methodologies as models for innovation in developing antimicrobial systems from food matrices. His multidisciplinary patents have crossover value in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and environmental safety. These accolades represent the fusion of his engineering ingenuity with a vision for healthier communities.

🌍 LEGACY & FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS TO GLOBAL HEALTH

Looking ahead, Professor Chouaïbi is poised to further integrate food engineering with global health initiatives. His future research aims to refine nanoencapsulation methods to deliver targeted nutritional therapies and anti-infective agents through everyday food products. His commitment to addressing malnutrition, microbial contamination, and diet-related diseases aligns with global health goals and sustainable development frameworks. By developing bioactive-rich ingredients from agricultural waste, he also promotes circular economy principles and food system sustainability. His work resonates deeply in low- and middle-income countries, where accessible, nutrition-based interventions are critical in combating infectious disease burdens. As a mentor and innovator, his legacy will extend through the scientists he inspires, the institutions he shapes, and the communities that benefit from his science. With over 50 peer-reviewed articles and involvement in cutting-edge international projects, Professor Chouaïbi's contribution to the intersection of food science and infectious disease control is both transformative and enduring. His vision positions food not just as nourishment, but as a strategic frontier in the fight against infectious diseases worldwide.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

  • Title: Co-encapsulation of catechin and L-lysine in water-in-oil-in-water (W1/O/W2) double emulsion using membrane emulsification process: application in carrot based infant-purée
    Authors: Eya Soussi, Nayrouz Yahyaoui, Moncef Chouaibi, Salem Hamdi
    Journal: Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Comparative study of Acacia tortilis subsp. raddiana gum of Tunisian origin and commercial Acacia senegal gum
    Authors: Khouloud Rigane, Moncef Chouaibi, Romdhane Karoui
    Journal: Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Arbutus unedo fruit syrup as a fortifying agent: effect on physicochemical, microbiological, rheological, sensory and antioxidant properties of yoghurt
    Authors: I. Essaidi, M. Chouaibi, H. Haj Koubaier, S. Bouacida, A. Snoussi, Y. Abassi, N. Bouzouita
    Journal: Journal of Food Science and Technology
    Year: 2023

 

  • Title: Bioactive Phytochemicals from Pumpkin Seed Oil Processing By-products
    Authors: L. Rezig, K. Gharsallah, M. Chouaibi
    Journal: Reference Series in Phytochemistry (Book Chapter)
    Year: 2023

 

  • Title: Influence of Conservation Agriculture on Durum Wheat Grain, Dough Texture Profile and Pasta Quality in a Mediterranean Region
    Authors: I. Kerbouai, D. Sfayhi, K. Sassi, H.C. M’hamed, H. Jenfaoui, J. Riahi, S. Arfaoui, M. Chouaibi, Ben-... (author name appears truncated)
    Journal: Agriculture (Switzerland)
    Year: 2023

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)