Wafa Tombari | Vaccines | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Wafa Tombari | Vaccines | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | University Hospital of Sahloul | Tunisia

Dr. Wafa Tombari, Ph.D., is an accomplished Assistant Professor and Research Scientist at the University Hospital of Sahloul, Sousse, specializing in infectious diseases with a focus on virology, vaccine development, and antimicrobial resistance. She holds a Doctoral Diploma in Biology from the Faculty of Sciences in Tunisia, a Master of Science in Microbiology, and a Certificate of Complementary Studies in Statistics and Epidemiological Methods from the Faculty of Medicine in Tunisia. With a distinguished academic and research career, Dr. Tombari has served as an Assistant Professor at both the High Institute of Medical Technologies and the University Hospital of Sahloul, where she has successfully led and collaborated on numerous national and international research projects. Her research integrates molecular biology, bioinformatics, and immunoinformatics to develop computational approaches for vaccine design, antiviral therapeutics, and the study of bacterial resistance mechanisms. She has authored several peer-reviewed publications in reputable international journals, including studies on mRNA-based vaccines for rabies virus and molecular characterization of antimicrobial resistance in Staphylococcus species, highlighting her contributions to advancing biomedical innovation. Beyond her research, Dr. Tombari plays an active role in student mentorship, curriculum development, and scientific outreach, fostering collaboration and innovation within the academic community. Her expertise extends to reverse vaccinology, molecular cloning, and phylogenetic analysis, reflecting her multidisciplinary approach to infectious disease research. Dr. Tombari’s scholarly achievements and professional dedication exemplify her commitment to advancing global health through science and education. She has achieved 119 citations, published 10 scientific documents, and holds an h-index of 5, reflecting her academic influence and research excellence.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Tombari, W., Nsiri, J., Larbi, I., Guerin, J. L., & Ghram, A. (2011). Genetic evolution of low pathogenicity H9N2 avian influenza viruses in Tunisia: . Acquisition of new mutations. Virology Journal, 8(1), 467.

2. Tombari, W., Paul, M., Bettaieb, J., Larbi, I., Nsiri, J., Elbehi, I., Gribaa, L., & Ghram, A. (2013). Risk factors and characteristics of low pathogenic avian influenza virus isolated from commercial poultry in Tunisia. PLoS ONE, 8(1), e53524.

3. Boudaoud, A., Mamache, B., Tombari, W., & Ghram, A. (2016). Virus mutations and their impact on vaccination against infectious bursal disease (Gumboro disease). Revue Scientifique et Technique, 35(3), 875–897.

4. Kallel Sellami, M., Zitouni, M., Tombari, W., Ben Ayed, M., Abida, O., Laadhar, L., et al. (2007). Anti-desmoglein-1 antibodies are prevalent in Tunisian patients with hydatidosis and leishmaniasis. British Journal of Dermatology, 156(3), 591–593.

Achilleas Livieratos | Infectious Diseases Vaccines | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Achilleas Livieratos | Infectious Diseases Vaccines | Best Researcher Award

Medical Researcher | Stanford University | Greece

Dr. Achilleas Livieratos, PhD, MRSB, is a distinguished biomedical researcher whose work bridges immunology, infectious diseases, circadian biology, and artificial intelligence applications in health sciences. His research integrates advanced computational methods, including machine learning and multi-agent transformer frameworks, to enhance evidence generation, vaccine immunology, and drug safety analytics. He has published extensively in leading journals such as Vaccines, Pathogens, Viruses, eClinicalMedicine, and Value in Health, contributing to global understanding of immune response dynamics, precision medicine, and outcomes research. Notably, his development of MetaMind, an AI-driven framework for automated network meta-analyses, and his studies on circadian influences on influenza vaccine immunity have been recognized as groundbreaking contributions. His investigations into immune durability across respiratory viruses, including RSV, SARS-CoV-2, and influenza, as well as his exploration of alternative therapies for long COVID, have significantly advanced clinical and translational knowledge. As a lead collaborator with Stanford University and the University of California, San Francisco, Dr. Livieratos has directed international research initiatives on infectious disease modeling, biomarker discovery, and the application of AI in health outcomes research. His earlier work at the University of Oxford produced landmark discoveries in neurogenetics and circadian disruption, underpinning his multidisciplinary expertise. Through leadership in European Pharma and AI consortia, he continues to drive innovation in predictive health analytics and precision therapeutics, demonstrating an exceptional fusion of biomedical insight, computational innovation, and translational research impact.

Profiles : Google Scholar | Scopus

Featured Publication

Oliver, P. L., Sobczyk, M. V., Maywood, E. S., Edwards, B., Lee, S., Livieratos, A., et al. (2012). Disrupted circadian rhythms in a mouse model of schizophrenia. Current Biology, 22(4), 314–319.

Taylor, T. N., Potgieter, D., Anwar, S., Senior, S. L., Janezic, S., Threlfell, S., Ryan, B., et al. (2014). Region-specific deficits in dopamine, but not norepinephrine, signaling in a novel A30P α-synuclein BAC transgenic mouse. Neurobiology of Disease, 62, 193–207.

Wobst, H. J., Denk, F., Oliver, P. L., Livieratos, A., Taylor, T. N., Knudsen, M. H., et al. (2017). Increased 4R tau expression and behavioural changes in a novel MAPT-N296H genomic mouse model of tauopathy. Scientific Reports, 7(1), 43198.

Livieratos, A., Gogos, C., & Akinosoglou, K. (2024). Impact of prior COVID-19 immunization and/or prior infection on immune responses and clinical outcomes. Viruses, 16(5), 685.

Livieratos, A., Gogos, C., & Akinosoglou, K. (2024). Beyond antivirals: Alternative therapies for long COVID. Viruses, 16(11), 1795.

Xiaoxiao Liu | Immunology of Infections | Excellence in Innovation

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Xiaoxiao Liu | Immunology of Infections | Excellence in Innovation

Science & Education | Guangdong Provincial People’s Hospital| China

Xiaoxiao Liu, Ph.D., focuses on the interplay between bacteria and bacteriophages, with a particular emphasis on the regulatory mechanisms of bacterial biofilms and prophage activation. Her research addresses critical challenges in combating antibiotic-resistant infections, where biofilms serve as physical barriers that protect bacterial communities and facilitate horizontal gene transfer. Xiaoxiao Liu has systematically elucidated the signaling pathways linking environmental cues, such as low-temperature stress, to host H-NS proteins, resulting in precise prophage activation. This work has advanced the understanding of how prophages influence population-level bacterial adaptation and biofilm dynamics. She has further explored the coupling between prophage activation and biofilm formation, revealing how bacterial populations deploy sophisticated defense strategies to resist phage infection. Xiaoxiao Liu’s research also identifies strategies for enhancing the efficacy of phage therapy, demonstrating how bacterial responses to nutrient limitations, particularly nitrogen starvation, regulate key metabolic targets such as GlnA to control biofilm dispersal. Her work offers novel approaches for disrupting biofilms using targeted metabolites, including arginine, to improve phage penetration and antibacterial outcomes. Current investigations expand on the mechanisms by which bacteria employ defense systems derived from prophages to selectively neutralize diverse phages, providing insights essential for the rational design of engineered phages. By integrating molecular microbiology, biofilm physiology, and phage biology, Xiaoxiao Liu’s research contributes foundational knowledge to the development of innovative antibacterial therapies, emphasizing both fundamental and translational aspects of microbial ecology, phage-bacteria interactions, and biofilm modulation. Her studies have implications for designing more effective phage-based treatments against persistent bacterial infections and enhancing the understanding of microbial population dynamics under environmental stress. 2,901 Citations, 26 Documents, 18 h-index.

Profiles : Scopus

Featured Publications

  1. Author(s). (2026). The diagnostic value of combined detection of GBP1, IFN-γ and IL-2 in differentiating NTM from TB infection. Clinica Chimica Acta.

  2. Author(s). (2024). Control of lysogeny and antiphage defense by a prophage-encoded kinase-phosphatase module. Nature Communications. 10 citations.

Prof. Zhiyi He | Immunology of Infections | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Zhiyi He | Immunology of Infections | Best Researcher Award

The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University | China.

Author Profile

Scopus

🎓EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Professor Zhiyi He embarked on his academic journey with a focus on respiratory medicine, excelling during his medical training. His dedication to advancing healthcare led him to pursue rigorous education and research, establishing a strong foundation for his future endeavors.

🩺PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Position: Professor and Doctoral Supervisor at The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University.

Roles:

  • Member of the Respiratory Society of the Chinese Medical Association.
  • Young Member of the Chinese Respiratory Society.
  • Member of the COPD Group of the Chinese Respiratory Society.
  • Chairman of the Respiratory Disease Branch of the Guangxi Medical Association.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON IMMUNOLOGY OF INFECTIONS

Professor Zhiyi He’s research is pivotal in addressing chronic respiratory diseases, with a particular emphasis on:

  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
  • Advancing diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for respiratory illnesses.
  • Promoting interdisciplinary research to integrate cutting-edge treatments.

🌍IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Professor He’s contributions have significantly shaped respiratory medicine, not only within Guangxi but across China. As the Chairman of the Respiratory Disease Branch of the Guangxi Medical Association, he has spearheaded initiatives to improve healthcare accessibility and quality for patients with chronic respiratory conditions.

📚ACADEMIC CITATIONS

With numerous publications in high-impact journals, Professor Zhiyi He is widely cited in the fields of respiratory medicine and clinical research. His work has influenced academic peers and practitioners, reflecting his stature as a thought leader in his domain.

🦠LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Achievements: Named the 2020 Outstanding Scholar of Guangxi Colleges and Universities, a testament to his enduring contributions to academia and healthcare.

Vision: Professor He aims to continue driving innovation in respiratory medicine through mentorship, research, and clinical practice, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations of medical professionals.

📑NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

“Multiple pathogen infections accompanied with ocular pathologies in a patient with high-titer Anti-IFN-γ autoantibodies: a case report” 

Authors: Wu, S., Liang, S., Liang, H., Li, X., He, Z.
Journal: BMC Infectious Diseases
Publication Year: 2024

“Effect of high-dose N-acetylcysteine on exacerbations and lung function in patients with mild-to-moderate COPD: a double-blind, parallel group, multicentre randomised clinical trial” 

Authors: Zhou, Y., Wu, F., Shi, Z., Liu, S., Zhao, Z.
Journal: Nature Communications
Year: 2024

“Polyphyllin B inhibited STAT3/NCOA4 pathway and restored gut microbiota to ameliorate lung tissue injury in cigarette smoke-induced mice” 

Authors: Wang, Q., He, Z., Zhu, J., Yang, L., Yang, H.
Journal: BMC Biotechnology
Year: 2024

“Multiple intracellular pathogen infections with ocular pathologies associated with adult-onset immunodeficiency due to anti-interferon-γ autoantibodies: a case report” 

Authors: Ning, Y., Yu, Q., Liang, H., Liang, X., He, Z.
Journal: BMC Infectious Diseases
Year: 2024

“Mechanism of cigarette smoke in promoting small airway remodeling in mice via STAT 3 / PINK 1-Parkin / EMT” 

Authors: Wei, Y., Li, Q., He, K., Li, M., He, Z.
Journal: Free Radical Biology and Medicine
Year: 2024

Prof. Shu-Ching Hsu | Immunology of Infections | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Shu-Ching Hsu | Immunology of Infections | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Shu-Ching Hsu, National Health Research Institute/National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology, Taiwan.

Prof. Shu-Ching Hsu is an Associate Investigator at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology (NIIDV), NHRI, Taiwan. She earned her Ph.D. in Molecular Immunology and Signal Transduction from National Taiwan University and specializes in immunology, stem cell biology, and vaccine development. Prof. Hsu is widely recognized for her pioneering research on immune suppression, neutrophil biology, and the development of humanized mouse models to study immune responses in infectious diseases. Her work has significantly advanced immunotherapy, drug discovery, and our understanding of immune mechanisms in disease progression. She was honored with the Best Researcher Award for her exceptional contributions to the field of immunology and infectious diseases.

Author Profile

Scopus

🏫EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Shu-Ching Hsu earned her Ph.D. in Molecular Immunology and Signal Transduction from the Graduate Institute of Microbiology, National Taiwan University (1995–2000). Prior to this, she completed her M.S. in Molecular Biology and Immunology at National Yang-Ming University (1993–1995) and her B.S. in Microbiology from Soochow University (1989–1993).

💼 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Shu-Ching Hsu has extensive professional experience in both research and academia. She is currently an Associate Investigator at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases and Vaccinology (NIIDV), NHRI, Taiwan (2013–present) and holds Associate Professor positions at National Chung Hsing University, National Defense University, and Kaohsiung Medical University (2013–present). Prior to her current roles, she served as an Assistant Investigator at the Vaccine Research and Development Center, NHRI, Taiwan (2005–2013). Dr. Hsu also completed two postdoctoral fellowships: one at Tulane University, USA (2002–2005) and another at Academia Sinica, Taiwan (2000–2002).

🔬RESEARCH INTERESTS

Dr. Shu-Ching Hsu’s research interests focus on human neutrophil biology and progenitor cell differentiation, as well as the development of humanized mouse models for advancing immunotherapy and drug discovery. She is also deeply engaged in understanding the mechanisms of immune suppression, particularly through myeloid-derived suppressive cells (MDSCs), and their role in disease progression. Additionally, Dr. Hsu explores stem cell-based therapies aimed at addressing infectious diseases, cancer, and various immune disorders.

🧠TECHNICAL SKILLS

Dr. Shu-Ching Hsu possesses expertise in stem cell biology, particularly in the development and use of humanized mouse models for immunotherapy and drug discovery. She is proficient in neutrophil biology, cell signaling, and understanding immune suppression mechanisms. Additionally, Dr. Hsu is skilled in the genetic modification of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and the creation of stem cell-derived immune cell platforms for research and therapeutic applications.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

“IL-10RA governs the expression of IDO in the instruction of lymphocyte immunity” 

Authors: Tai, T.-S., Hsu, D.-W., Yang, Y.-S., Wu, C.-H., Hsu, S.-C.
Publication Year: 2024
Citations: 0

“Peptide immunization against the C-terminal of alpha-synuclein reduces locomotor activity in mice overexpressing alpha-synuclein” 

Authors: Chiu, Y.-S., Wu, K.-J., Yu, S.-J., Wang, Y., Chen, Y.-H.
Publication Year: 2023
Citations: 1

“Correction: Metronomic chemotherapy prevents therapy-induced stromal activation and induction of tumor-initiating cells” 

Authors: Chan, T.-S., Hsu, C.-C., Pai, V.C., Weaver, V.M., Tsai, K.K.
Publication Year: 2023
Citations: 0

“The potential of adoptive transfer of γ9δ2 T cells to enhance blinatumomab’s antitumor activity against B-cell malignancy” 

Authors: Chen, Y.-H., Wang, Y., Liao, C.-H., Hsu, S.-C.
Publication Year: 2021
Citations: 4

“Index of cancer-associated fibroblasts is superior to the epithelial–mesenchymal transition score in prognosis prediction” 

Authors: Ko, Y.-C., Lai, T.-Y., Hsu, S.-C., Lin, C.-Y., Lin, S.-F.
Publication Year: 2020
Citations: 19

“Downregulation of α-Synuclein Protein Levels by an Intracellular Single-Chain Antibody” 

Authors: Chen, Y.-H., Yu, S.-J., Wu, K.-J., Hoffer, B.J., Wang, Y.
Publication Year: 2020
Citations: 7

Prof Dr. Damalie Nakanjako | Immunology of Infections | Women Researcher Award

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Prof Dr. Damalie Nakanjako | Immunology of Infections | Women Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Damalie Nakanjako, Makerere University, Uganda.

Prof. Dr. Damalie Nakanjako is a distinguished researcher in Immunology of Infections and a dedicated advocate for advancing women’s contributions to science. As a Professor of Medicine and a renowned immunologist, her research focuses on understanding immune responses to infectious diseases, particularly in resource-limited settings. She has made significant strides in studying HIV, tuberculosis, and other infections, contributing to innovative treatments and influencing global health policies. With numerous publications in high-impact journals, Prof. Nakanjako is internationally recognized for her leadership in research, clinical practice, and mentoring young scientists. Her groundbreaking contributions have positioned her as a leading voice in combating infections and improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations, while championing gender equity in research and academia.

Professional Profiles

Scopus Profile

Orcid  Profile

📚Education

Dr. Damalie Nakanjako’s education is marked by advanced training in medicine, biomedical sciences, and leadership. She earned her MBChB in Medicine and Surgery from Makerere University, Uganda in 1999, followed by a Master of Medicine (MMED) in Internal Medicine in 2005. She completed her PhD in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Antwerp, Belgium in 2010. In addition to her degrees, she has specialized in leadership and governance, earning a Certificate in Corporate Governance and a Certificate in Audit and Risk Management from the Institute of Corporate Governance of Uganda in 2022 and 2023. Dr. Nakanjako also holds a Certificate in Leadership and Management in Health from the University of Washington, USA (2015). She has participated in key workshops, such as the Functional Genomics and Systems Biology Workshop at the Uganda Virus Research Institute (2014), and a Post-Doctoral Fellowship there from 2012 to 2013. Her commitment to professional development includes clinical research training through the Infectious Diseases Institute and GloCal Health Institute.

💼Experience

Dr. Nakanjako has over 10 years of leadership experience in academia, serving as the Principal of Makerere University College of Health Sciences and Former Dean of the School of Medicine. She has also led collaborative research and training programs aimed at building Africa’s scientific capacity in Infection and Immunity.

 

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Nakanjako is a renowned researcher in Infection and Immunity, with extensive expertise in HIV care, treatment, and prevention in sub-Saharan Africa. Her research focuses on chronic HIV-associated inflammation, immune aging, and non-AIDS illnesses, as well as the use of mobile health (m-health) platforms for patient follow-up. She has published over 107 scientific papers and authored books such as Efficient HIV/AIDS Care in Resource-Limited Settings.

 

👩‍🏫Mentorship and Networking

A mentor to over 58 graduate students and post-doctoral researchers, Dr. Nakanjako is actively involved in programs like the Makerere University-Uganda Virus Research Institute Infection and Immunity (MUII) and the Afya Bora Consortium. She is also the director of the ADAPT One Health network, working on antimicrobial stewardship in sub-Saharan Africa.

 

🏆Awards

Dr. Nakanjako has received several prestigious awards throughout her career, including the TWAS-Abdool Karim Award in Biological Sciences (2022), which recognizes outstanding contributions to the field of biological sciences. In 2013, she was honored with the Fourth Annual Merle A. Sande Health Leadership Award for her leadership in health sciences. Additionally, she earned the Young Investigator Award at the 18th Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) (2011), highlighting her early and impactful contributions to medical research.

📑Top Note Publications

Title: Incidence and predictors of virological failure among HIV infected children and adolescents receiving second-line antiretroviral therapy in Uganda, a retrospective study

Authors: Musiime-Mwase F, Nakanjako D, Kanywa JB, Sewankambo N, Elyanu P.
Publication Year: 2024
Citations: 0

Title: Barriers and facilitators of cervical cancer screening literacy among rural women with HIV attending rural public health facilities in East Central Uganda: a qualitative study using the integrated model of health literacy

Authors: Namutundu J, Kiguli J, Nakku-Joloba E, Nakanjako D, Nakalembe M.
Publication Year: 2024
Citations: 0

Title: The clinical utility of cystatin C based eGFR in assessing renal function among HIV/AIDS patients on ART at Mildmay Uganda

Authors: Wekiya E, Mujuzi GP, Nakiyingi J, Mutebi EI, Nakanjako D.
Publication Year: 2024
Citations: 0

Title: Chronic immune activation and accelerated immune aging among HIV-infected adults receiving suppressive antiretroviral therapy for at least 12 years in an African cohort

Authors: Nakanjako D, Nabatanzi R, Ssinabulya I, Banturaki G, Castelnuovo B.
Publication Year: 2024
Citations: 0

Title: Effectiveness of intensive adherence counselling in achieving an undetectable viral load among people on antiretroviral therapy with low-level viraemia in Uganda

Authors: Nanyeenya N, Nakanjako D, Makumbi F, Huzaifah M, Kiwanuka N.
Publication Year: 2024
Citations: 2