Dr. Marwa Abozed | Antibiotic | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Marwa Abozed | Antibiotic | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Zagazig University Faculty of Human Medicine, Egypt

Marwa Fady Mohamed Abd El Hamed is an esteemed academic and microbiologist whose work extensively focuses on the development and enhancement of antibiotic treatments. With a rich background in pharmaceutical and medical microbiology, she has devoted much of her career to antibiotic-related research including resistance mechanisms and antibiofilm strategies. Her journey through academia and healthcare institutions is consistently guided by her passion for antibiotics, leading to significant contributions in infection control and innovative antimicrobial applications. She consistently demonstrates leadership in advancing knowledge related to antibiotic therapies, both as a scholar and educator. Her roles across institutions in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the USA have enriched her expertise and strengthened her resolve to combat the global antibiotic crisis. Her published work clearly reflects her dedication to antibiotic-related innovations, with substantial impact on antifungal, antibacterial, and antibiofilm therapeutic developments. With every academic, clinical, and research role she undertakes, antibiotics remain central to her mission. Her lectures, student guidance, and scientific investigations are deeply intertwined with antibiotic studies, creating a significant footprint in pharmaceutical microbiology. She is widely recognized for her continuous focus on antibiotic innovation, antibiotic resistance, and antibiotic-based natural compounds. Through publications and international conferences, she continues to highlight the critical importance of antibiotics in modern medicine.

Professional Profile 

ORCID

Education

Marwa Fady’s academic background is a testament to her enduring commitment to the field of antibiotics. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy, followed by a Master’s and PhD in Microbiology from Zagazig University. Her graduate and postgraduate work revolved around antibiotic resistance and microbiological investigations of pathogenic strains. Her education incorporated extensive research in antibiotic mechanism, antibiotic synergy, and biofilm inhibition. She later became a visiting scholar at the University of Dayton, USA, where she expanded her focus on global antibiotic challenges. Her degrees serve as a foundation for her life-long pursuit of antibiotic innovations, consistently integrating antibiotics in both theoretical and practical settings. Through every academic milestone, she has maintained a strong emphasis on antibiotic efficacy, antibiotic mechanisms, and antibiotic applications. Her learning journey solidified her expertise in antibiotics, allowing her to contribute to developing next-generation antibiotic solutions. Her thesis and research projects consistently investigated antibiotic-related phenomena, underlining her unwavering academic alignment with antibiotic science. These educational stages nurtured her growth in antibiotic strategies, antibiotic research techniques, and antibiotic policy studies. Her educational path has been deeply intertwined with antibiotics, establishing her as a knowledgeable and credible figure in the antibiotic-focused scientific community.

Experience

Marwa Fady’s professional career has been shaped by her focus on antibiotics in multiple academic and clinical roles. From teaching microbiology and pharmaceutical sciences to managing infection control programs, antibiotics have remained central to her responsibilities. As Assistant Professor at Modern University for Technology and Information, she designs coursework heavily centered on antibiotics, including their classification, resistance mechanisms, and clinical applications. Her tenure at Buraidah Private Colleges and Al-Ghad International Colleges further enriched her hands-on experience in antibiotic research and laboratory practices. During her time in the quality assurance departments, she led efforts in evaluating antibiotic stewardship programs. Her responsibilities included guiding graduation projects with antibiotic research themes, ensuring that antibiotic education remained a priority. As a faculty member at Delta University, she supervised student training in antibiotic susceptibility testing and antibiotic prescription monitoring. She also contributed to infection control initiatives at Zagazig University Hospital, focusing on antibiotic use and evaluation. Across all her professional stations, the common thread is the integration and promotion of antibiotics in teaching, practice, and research. Her career is a dynamic embodiment of antibiotic commitment, and each position she held has contributed to building her legacy in antibiotics-driven academia and clinical microbiology.

Research Interest

Marwa Fady’s primary research interests revolve around antibiotics, particularly in the context of resistance, biofilms, and novel delivery systems. She explores how antibiotics interact with microbial cells and investigates ways to enhance antibiotic efficacy through nanotechnology and natural compounds. Her projects delve into antibiotic resistance in clinical isolates, the identification of antibiofilm agents, and the synthesis of antibiotic-loaded nanocarriers. A significant focus of her research is the modification of antibiotic functionality to overcome microbial resistance and reduce toxicity. She is also interested in discovering natural sources of antibiotics, evaluating plant extracts, and developing formulations that potentiate traditional antibiotics. In addition, her research addresses antibiotic-associated complications in infection control, advocating for rational antibiotic use and promoting antibiotic stewardship. By studying bacteria’s genetic and phenotypic responses to antibiotics, she contributes to understanding resistance development. Her experiments consistently integrate antibiotic testing methods, pharmacokinetics, and synergistic approaches for treatment improvement. Her scientific publications clearly illustrate her unwavering focus on antibiotics, as she bridges microbiology with nanomedicine. Her research not only deepens our knowledge of antibiotics but also supports the creation of advanced antibiotic therapies capable of addressing current global challenges in microbial resistance and public health threats.

Awards and Honors

Marwa Fady has received numerous recognitions for her contributions to antibiotic research and microbiology. Her invitation as a session speaker and poster presenter at various international scientific conferences underlines her expertise in antibiotics. Notably, she represented her antibiotic-related work at the 7th International Conference on Drug Discovery & Therapy in the UAE. Her position as a reviewer for Bentham journals and editorial board member of Frontiers in Environmental Microbiology further acknowledges her credibility in antibiotic-focused publications. She has been repeatedly recognized for her scientific outputs on antibiotics, including antifungal, antibacterial, and antibiofilm activities. These honors reflect her prominence in the field of antibiotic innovation. Her teaching awards and institutional acknowledgments also credit her excellence in antibiotic education and mentorship. Whether through editorial responsibilities or scientific presentations, she has championed the cause of antibiotic advancement. Each award symbolizes a milestone in her antibiotic-centered journey. Her achievements continue to inspire academic and clinical communities in developing new solutions to antibiotic resistance. Marwa Fady's work continues to attract institutional, national, and international recognition, always grounded in the development, improvement, and global application of antibiotics as life-saving therapeutic agents.

Research Skills

Marwa Fady has developed advanced research skills with a clear emphasis on antibiotics, covering experimental design, microbiological techniques, and molecular diagnostics. Her expertise includes culturing resistant strains, evaluating antibiotic susceptibility, and studying biofilm disruption using antibiotics. She is skilled in operating instruments critical for antibiotic analysis, such as microplate readers, incubators, and spectrophotometers. Marwa also masters modern molecular biology tools like PCR, electrophoresis, and genetic sequencing, often applying them to analyze antibiotic resistance genes. Her ability to design and execute in vitro and in vivo studies enables comprehensive evaluations of antibiotic efficacy. She excels in nanomedicine approaches for antibiotic delivery, antibiotic-loaded hydrogel development, and pharmacological assessments. Data interpretation and biostatistical analysis are also part of her skillset, especially in the context of antibiotic resistance trends. She regularly integrates computational tools and in silico modeling to predict antibiotic behaviors. Her research skills reflect her ability to navigate interdisciplinary frameworks involving microbiology, pharmacology, and biotechnology. These competencies have driven the success of numerous antibiotic research projects. Her methodological rigor and innovative outlook make her a key figure in antibiotic discovery and application. Her skills consistently serve the scientific community in addressing antibiotic resistance and refining therapeutic use of antibiotics.

Publications

Title: Chitosan-Based Intelligent Microneedles for Delivery of Amphotericin B Loaded Oleosomes: Antifungal Ocular Patch Targeting for Effective Against Fungal Keratitis Using Rabbit Model via TLR4/NLRP3 Pathway
Author: Marwa Fady
Journal: International Journal of Nanomedicine
Publication Date: 2025-04-30

Title: Polylactic-Co-Glycolic Acid/Alginate/Neem Oil-Reduced Graphene Oxide as a pH-Sensitive Nanocarrier for Hesperidin Drug Delivery: Antimicrobial and Acute Otitis Media Assessments
Authors: Saeed Al Zuhairy, Sammar Fathy Elhabal, Mohamed Fathi Mohamed Elrefai, Sandra Hababeh, Jakline Nelson, Marwa Fady, Nahla A. Elzohairy, Tassneim M. Ewedah, Ibrahim S. Mousa, Ahmed M. Hamdan
Journal: Pharmaceuticals
Publication Date: 2025-03-07

Title: Effect of β-sitosterol on PEL and PSL of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Marwa Fady, Y. Irie, R.M. Aljowaie, S. Musaed Almutairi
Journal: Journal of King Saud University - Science
Publication Year: 2024

Title: Enhancing Photothermal Therapy for Antibiofilm Wound Healing: Insights from Graphene Oxide-Cranberry Nanosheet Loaded Hydrogel in vitro, in silico, and in vivo Evaluation
Authors: Sammar Elhabal, Saeed Al Zuhairy, Mohamed El-Nabarawi, Mohamed Elrefai, Mai Shoela, Sandra Hababeh, Jakline Nelson, Mohamed Abdel Khalek, Marwa Fady, Nahla Elzohairy, et al.
Journal: International Journal of Nanomedicine
Publication Date: 2024-12

Title: Evaluation of antibiofilm and cytotoxicity effect of Rumex vesicarius methanol extract
Authors: Marwa Fady, H. Rizwana, K.M. Alarjani, M.A. Alghamdi, S.S. Ibrahim, J. Geyer, A. Abbas
Journal: Open Chemistry
Publication Year: 2023

Title: Efficacy of Ethanol Extract from Leaves Of Malva parviflora to Inhibit Bacterial Biofilm Formation
Authors: Marwa Abozed, Nadia Hashish, Magda Gazer
Journal: Journal of Molecular Biology Research
Publication Date: 2018-04-19

Conclusion

Marwa Fady Mohamed Abd El Hamed is a distinguished researcher whose career is firmly anchored in the study and advancement of antibiotics. Her academic journey, professional practice, and research excellence are harmoniously united by a common goal: improving antibiotic science. Her work not only explores the limits of antibiotic resistance but also proposes novel solutions through nanotechnology and natural compounds. From guiding students in antibiotic-focused courses to publishing breakthrough findings in peer-reviewed journals, her commitment remains unwavering. Marwa’s global exposure and multidisciplinary engagements strengthen her voice in the antibiotic community. Her role as a mentor, speaker, and scholar reinforces the relevance of antibiotics in education, research, and healthcare policy. With each project and publication, she contributes to resolving the global antibiotic crisis, one study at a time. Her vision includes not just understanding antibiotics but also applying them strategically to benefit public health. Her achievements are a testament to how antibiotics can be central to both personal expertise and global innovation. In every capacity—educator, researcher, clinician—antibiotics have guided her mission and continue to define her legacy in microbiology and pharmaceutical science.

Anara Babayeva – Antibiotics – Best Researcher Award

Anara Babayeva - Antibiotics - Best Researcher Award

Mugla Sıtkı Kocman University - Turkey

AUTHOR PROFILE 

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

EARLY ACADEMIC ROOTS 🌱

Anara Babayeva, born in Baku, Azerbaijan, on February 9, 1993, embarked on her academic journey with a passion for biology that would soon shape a compelling scientific career. After completing high school at A.S. Xalilov No. 263, she earned her bachelor's degree in biology from Azerbaijan State Pedagogical University. Her academic curiosity led her to Turkey, where she pursued and completed her master’s degree in biology at Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University. It was during this period that Anara began cultivating her deep scientific interest in molecular biology, microbiology, and the emerging field of functional genomics. The foundation she built during these formative years prepared her to engage in highly complex studies involving transcriptomics, metabolomics, and proteomics—fields crucial in the global fight against resistant bacteria. Even as a student, she was drawn to innovative research areas, especially the use of natural compounds and novel molecules like boron-derived antibiotics. Her early education served as a launchpad for numerous national and international research projects focused on bacterial gene expression, antimicrobial resistance, and metabolic profiling. Her work consistently demonstrated both a profound understanding of biological systems and a visionary approach toward leveraging antibiotics for therapeutic and diagnostic breakthroughs.

ADVANCED SCIENTIFIC EXPLORATIONS 🔬

At the graduate and post-graduate levels, Anara Babayeva immersed herself in the intricacies of biotechnology and molecular research. Her focus sharpened on developing novel methodologies to understand how antibiotics, particularly boron-containing compounds like epetraborole, interact with pathogenic strains such as Escherichia coli. At Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, she became an active researcher in various TÜBİTAK and BAP-funded projects, contributing significantly to studies investigating bacterial gene responses, antimicrobial resistance, and phenolic compounds. Anara's efforts included advanced proteomic and transcriptomic analyses, often utilizing nano LC-MS/MS, 2D gel electrophoresis, and microarray platforms. Her expertise expanded through work on functional genomics, including KEIO mutant screening and ASKA clone analysis, highlighting her unique ability to decode complex genetic systems. Through these cutting-edge methods, Anara explored the biochemical and genomic impact of antibiotics on cellular networks. This phase of her career showcased not just technical proficiency but also a bold drive to innovate in diagnostics and treatment methodologies. Her work during this period not only contributed to scientific literature but also provided a deeper understanding of how natural compounds and synthetic antibiotics could serve as the cornerstone of next-generation antimicrobial strategies.

GROUNDBREAKING RESEARCH IN ANTIBIOTICS 🧪

Anara Babayeva’s scientific pursuits have consistently centered around the dynamic and urgent field of antibiotics research. Her hallmark contributions involve the investigation of epetraborole, a boron-containing experimental drug, and its mechanisms against bacterial strains. She has taken a leading role in several TÜBİTAK-funded projects examining how specific genes and proteins in Escherichia coli respond to antimicrobial stress, using technologies like NMR metabolomics and proteomics to detect subtle molecular changes. In particular, her research revealed novel gene targets and metabolic pathways affected by boron-based antibiotics, advancing our understanding of bacterial resistance and tolerance mechanisms. Through transcriptomic profiling, she has mapped how gene overexpression or deletion can modify bacterial behavior under drug pressure. These insights are essential in combating multidrug-resistant organisms, which pose a growing threat to global health. Anara’s ability to synthesize bioinformatics data with wet-lab experimentation has propelled her work to the forefront of functional antibiotic discovery. Her pioneering studies underscore how interdisciplinary approaches can unlock powerful antimicrobial solutions, turning theoretical findings into practical applications. By bridging molecular biology and clinical microbiology, she continues to redefine how antibiotics are conceptualized and tested in modern laboratories.

NATURAL COMPOUNDS AND ANTIMICROBIAL INNOVATION 🌿

In addition to synthetic antibiotics, Anara Babayeva has conducted extensive research on natural compounds with antimicrobial properties. Her investigations into Turkish propolis, phenolic acids, and even sea urchin extracts highlight her interest in exploring bioactive molecules from diverse ecosystems. She played key roles in studies examining the antimicrobial and anticancer effects of substances like Dracunculus vulgaris, Rosularia serrata, Amanita virosa, and Trichaptum biforme. These experiments often employed metabolomic profiling and transcriptomic studies to determine how natural extracts affect microbial survival, with findings suggesting that nature-derived compounds could complement traditional antibiotics or even pave the way for new drug classes. By examining how compounds such as propolis influence nucleic acid metabolism and protein expression in E. coli, Anara has contributed important data to the field of natural product pharmacology. Her research also sheds light on how bacteria develop resistance or tolerance to both synthetic and natural antimicrobial agents. This dual approach—studying both commercial antibiotics and bioactive compounds—illustrates her comprehensive understanding of microbial defense strategies and her commitment to uncovering sustainable, multifaceted antimicrobial therapies.

ACCOLADES AND ACADEMIC CONTRIBUTIONS 🏆

Throughout her career, Anara Babayeva has earned widespread recognition for her contributions to molecular biology and antibiotics research. Her scholarly work has been featured in respected journals such as Frontiers in Life Sciences and Related Technologies, Journal of Applied Microbiology, and International Journal of Peptide Research and Therapeutics. She has authored and co-authored impactful studies on epetraborole, bacterial gene responses, and antimicrobial resistance. Moreover, Anara has presented her findings at prominent international conferences, where her work on boron-based antibiotics, gene expression, and metabolomics has drawn praise from the academic community. Her participation in events such as the International Proteomics Congress and multiple TÜBİTAK conferences demonstrates her active engagement in scientific dialogue. Her reputation as an innovative and meticulous researcher has made her a respected figure in the antibiotic discovery field. Notably, her efforts are not limited to publication—she has been actively involved in mentoring, conducting experimental designs, and guiding younger researchers in the lab. These contributions ensure that her knowledge and passion for antibiotics continue to influence future scientific exploration and public health advancements.

SCIENTIFIC IMPACT AND GLOBAL REACH 🌍

Anara Babayeva’s research has transcended national boundaries, contributing valuable insights to the global scientific community’s understanding of antibiotics. Her interdisciplinary methodology—integrating genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics—has made significant strides in elucidating how bacteria interact with both synthetic and natural antimicrobial agents. By targeting genes associated with resistance and metabolic adaptation, she has helped pinpoint vulnerable molecular pathways, offering promising new targets for therapeutic development. Anara’s findings not only contribute to scientific journals but also inform broader discussions on antibiotic stewardship and resistance management worldwide. Her work is increasingly relevant in the age of rising antibiotic-resistant infections, especially as health organizations emphasize the need for next-generation antimicrobial drugs. Collaborations with international partners and participation in bilateral research projects further highlight her influence beyond Turkey and Azerbaijan. Her data on propolis and boron-derived antibiotics have implications for pharmaceutical development, bioengineering, and public health strategies. Anara’s science-driven advocacy promotes rational drug design and emphasizes a balance between innovation and sustainability in the use of antibiotics, making her a crucial voice in the global effort to protect the efficacy of life-saving antimicrobial therapies.

VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF ANTIBIOTICS RESEARCH 🔭

Looking ahead, Anara Babayeva envisions a future where advanced technologies converge to develop smarter, safer, and more sustainable antibiotics. Her ongoing research focuses on identifying novel gene-drug interactions, using tools like CRISPR screening, AI-driven bioinformatics, and NMR-based metabolomics. With a strong foundation in functional genomics and microbial systems biology, she aims to build integrated models that predict bacterial responses to emerging drug candidates. She is particularly interested in the synergy between synthetic molecules and natural extracts, which could minimize resistance development while enhancing drug efficacy. Future projects include studying microbial ecology under antimicrobial stress and developing biosensors for antibiotic susceptibility testing. Anara is also committed to mentoring a new generation of scientists who can carry forward the fight against antibiotic resistance. As antibiotics become an increasingly precious resource, her research will help redefine how they are developed, prescribed, and preserved. Her legacy is poised to be one of scientific rigor and visionary leadership—pioneering not just new compounds but also a paradigm shift in how the world understands and utilizes antibiotics for both human and environmental health.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

  • Title: NMR metabolomics analysis of Escherichia coli cells treated with Turkish propolis water extract reveals nucleic acid metabolism as the major target
    Authors: ES Elgin, ŞS Çatav, A Babayeva, H Kim, E Dibek, B Çöl, YK Chae, ...
    Journal: Journal of Applied Microbiology

 

  • Title: Bor içeren bazı biyoaktif bileşikler
    Authors: E Dibek, A Babayeva, MS Kürkçü, NA Çöl, B Çöl
    Journal: Journal of Boron

 

  • Title: Genome-wide screen of Escherichia coli Keio mutant line identifies genes related to propolis effect
    Authors: E Dibek, A Babayeva, ES Elgin, MS Kürkçü, B Çöl
    Journal: European Food Research and Technology

 

  • Title: The Cytotoxic Effects of Turkish Bee Venom (Apis mellifera) on Selected Cancer Cell Lines
    Authors: A Babayeva, E Dibek, İ Kıvrak, B Çöl
    Journal: International Journal of Peptide Research and Therapeutics

 

  • Title: Genome-wide Screening of the Escherichia coli Keio Knockout Collection Identifies Genetic Determinants of Epetraborole Hypersusceptibility
    Authors: A Babayeva, B Çöl
    Journal: European Journal of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases

Charlene Pillay – Antibiotic – Best Researcher Award

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)