Hind Ibork | Brain Metabolism | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Hind Ibork | Brain Metabolism | Best Researcher Award

Faculty of sciences, Genomic of Human Pathologies Research Centre, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Morocco

Hind Ibork is an emerging neuroscientist with a strong foundation in neuropharmacology and cellular neuroscience. Currently a PhD candidate in Neuroscience and Pharmacology at Mohammed V University in Rabat, Morocco, she has developed a compelling research focus on the role of the cannabinoid system in modulating astrocytic mitochondrial metabolism under neuroinflammatory conditions. Her work sits at the intersection of neurobiology, pharmacology, and metabolic regulation, which places her among a new generation of interdisciplinary researchers. She has presented her findings at several high-impact conferences and published in reputable international journals. Hind’s work is distinguished not only by its relevance to neuroinflammatory disorders but also by its translational potential in the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting cannabinoid pathways. She has been awarded competitive grants, such as the ISN-CAEN travel grant and ISN-Advanced School Travel Award, which highlight the international recognition of her research excellence. Moreover, she has honed a diverse set of technical and analytical skills that bolster her capacity for cutting-edge scientific inquiry. Hind’s scholarly journey reflects a balance of academic rigor, research innovation, and cross-cultural scientific engagement, making her a strong candidate for honors such as the Best Researcher Award in Neuroscience.

Professional Profile

Education

Hind Ibork’s educational trajectory is marked by consistency and excellence across several academic disciplines related to biological and pharmaceutical sciences. She is currently concluding her PhD in Neuroscience and Pharmacology at Mohammed V University in Rabat, Morocco, where her research explores the role of the cannabinoid system in astrocytic metabolism during neuroinflammation. Her doctoral work demonstrates a sophisticated integration of molecular neuroscience, pharmacological intervention, and metabolic regulation. Hind holds a Master’s degree (2018–2020) in Analysis and Quality Control of Drugs and Plant-based Health Products from the same university. This provided her with a robust foundation in pharmaceutical sciences and natural product chemistry. Her academic grounding began with a Bachelor’s degree (2016–2017) in Biotechnology, Hygiene, and Food Safety from Mohammed ben Abdellah University in Fez, Morocco, preceded by a Technical University Diploma (2014–2016) in Bio-industrial Engineering. These degrees reflect a strong interdisciplinary command of biotechnology, pharmacognosy, and applied research. Additionally, she obtained a TCF (Test de Connaissance du Français) certificate in 2016, confirming her fluency in French, which supports her international collaborations. Hind’s formal education not only reflects academic achievement but also progressive specialization toward high-impact biomedical research.

Professional Experience

Hind Ibork’s professional experience complements her academic accomplishments with practical applications in neuropharmacological research. As a doctoral researcher, she has been deeply engaged in laboratory-based experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific communication since 2020. She has worked under the Physiology and Physiopathology Team at the Genomic of Human Pathologies Research Centre at Mohammed V University, Rabat. Hind has actively participated in supervising undergraduate projects, such as the exploration of cannabinoid receptors in energy metabolism and anti-inflammatory therapy (2021), and has conducted practical animal physiology sessions for license students. These experiences reflect her capability in both scientific mentorship and education. Furthermore, her prestigious three-month internship in 2024 at the NeuroCentre Magendie, INSERM U1215, Bordeaux, France, allowed her to investigate the effects of cannabidiol on neuron-astrocyte interactions. She has also been selected for and participated in multiple IBRO and international neuroscience schools between 2022 and 2023, which added international depth to her training. These engagements demonstrate not only technical and academic maturity but also her ability to collaborate across cultural and disciplinary lines. Hind’s rich professional exposure enhances her potential as a leading figure in cannabinoid and neuroinflammatory research.

Research Interests

Hind Ibork’s research interests are deeply rooted in neuroscience, neuroinflammation, and pharmacological modulation of brain metabolism. Her primary research focus lies in understanding how the cannabinoid system, particularly through agents like cannabidiol (CBD), regulates astrocytic mitochondrial metabolism under inflammatory conditions. This line of inquiry is particularly relevant given the growing interest in neuroimmune interactions and their role in disorders such as neurodegeneration, chronic pain, and psychiatric illnesses. Hind is also invested in the therapeutic potential of plant-derived compounds and natural products in modulating neural function. Her doctoral research explores the astrocyte-neuron metabolic relationship and the impact of CB1 receptors during inflammatory insults, offering insights into energy regulation and neuroprotection. Her broader scientific curiosity extends to behavioral neuroscience, toxicology, and cannabinoid receptor pharmacodynamics. Hind’s work is inherently translational, aiming to bridge experimental findings in animal and cellular models with potential clinical applications. Her interdisciplinary approach places her at the cutting edge of modern neuropharmacology, where traditional neurobiology converges with systems pharmacology and bioenergetics. She continues to seek knowledge through international training programs and collaborative research, underscoring her commitment to expanding the boundaries of our understanding of brain health and disease.

Research Skills

Hind Ibork possesses a broad and advanced set of technical research skills that support her dynamic work in neuroscience and pharmacology. She is proficient in critical laboratory techniques, including metabolic analysis using Seahorse Metabolic Bioanalyzer XFe24, immunohistochemistry, immunocytochemistry, and behavioral testing in animal models. Her ability to isolate and culture primary astrocytes and establish neuron-astrocyte co-culture systems has been central to her investigations into neuroinflammation and cellular metabolism. She is adept in live imaging microscopy and uses fluorescent biosensors to track brain cell metabolism in real-time. Hind is also skilled in statistical data analysis using software like GraphPad Prism and SPSS, which enhances the reliability and interpretability of her experimental results. For scientific visualization and communication, she uses Adobe Illustrator and ImageJ. Her technical acumen is complemented by her fluency in Arabic, French, and English, allowing her to navigate multilingual scientific collaborations with ease. Furthermore, her experience in supervising practical courses and guiding undergraduate research reflects her ability to translate complex scientific methodologies into educational contexts. Hind’s versatile research toolkit enables her to tackle diverse and complex questions in neuroscience, positioning her as a technically competent and innovative researcher.

Awards and Honors

Hind Ibork has received several prestigious accolades that reflect her scientific promise and international recognition in the field of neuroscience. Most notably, she was awarded the ISN-CAEN Travel Grant (Category 1A) in 2024 by the International Society for Neurochemistry (ISN), a highly competitive honor that supported her internship at the INSERM U1215 laboratory in Bordeaux, France. This grant is awarded based on scientific excellence, the novelty of research proposals, and the anticipated impact on a candidate’s scientific career. In 2025, she received the ISN-Advanced School Travel Award, which covers full participation costs for the ISN-ASN meeting in New York, USA, further solidifying her international standing. These awards underscore her academic merit, innovative research, and engagement with the global scientific community. Additionally, her consistent selection for competitive international neuroscience schools (IBRO and others) between 2021 and 2024 is testament to her reputation among elite young scientists. These honors are not only acknowledgments of her research productivity but also of her collaborative spirit and drive for continued academic excellence. They reflect the high level of trust placed in her scientific judgment and potential by respected international neuroscience bodies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Hind Ibork stands out as a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her academic background is comprehensive and interdisciplinary, spanning biotechnology, pharmacology, and neuroscience. Professionally, she has demonstrated consistent research productivity and scientific leadership through active participation in collaborative projects, international training, and mentorship. Her research is both innovative and impactful, focusing on the cannabinoid system’s role in astrocytic metabolism during neuroinflammatory processes—an area with significant clinical relevance. Hind’s technical capabilities are expansive and up to date, encompassing cell culture, metabolic assays, behavioral studies, and sophisticated imaging techniques. She has also received significant international recognition through competitive awards and fellowships, which affirm the quality and promise of her work. Areas for potential improvement could include deeper engagement in translational or clinical studies and expanding her leadership role in multicentric projects. Nonetheless, her research contributions are substantial, and her drive for scientific advancement is evident. With her unique blend of scientific acumen, technical expertise, and international visibility, Hind Ibork embodies the qualities of an outstanding early-career researcher and is a commendable contender for the Best Researcher Award. Her future in neuroscience research is both promising and inspiring.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Cannabidiol‐Rich Cannabis sativa L. Extract Alleviates LPS‐Induced Neuroinflammation Behavioral Alterations, and Astrocytic Bioenergetic Impairment in Male Mice
    Authors: Hind Ibork, Zakaria Ait Lhaj, Khadija Boualam, Sara El Idrissi, Ahmet B. Ortaakarsu, Lhoussain Hajji, Annabelle Manalo Morgan, Farid Khallouki, Khalid Taghzouti, Oualid Abboussi
    Year: 2025
    Source: Journal of Neuroscience Research
    DOI: 10.1002/jnr.70035

  2. Title: Cannabis sativa L. essential oil: Chemical composition, anti-oxidant, anti-microbial properties, and acute toxicity: In vitro, in vivo, and in silico study
    Authors: El-Mernissi R., El Menyiy N., Moubachir R., Zouhri A., El-Mernissi Y., Siddique F., Nadeem S., Ibork H., El Barnossi A., Wondmie G.F., et al.
    Year: 2024
    Source: Open Chemistry
    DOI: 10.1515/chem-2023-0214

  1. Title: CB2 agonist mitigates cocaine-induced reinstatement of place preference and modulates the inflammatory response in mice
    Authors: Abboussi O., Khan Z.A., Ibork H., Zulu S.S., Daniels W., Taghzouti K., Hales T.G.
    Year: 2024
    Source: Behavioural Pharmacology
    DOI: 10.1097/FBP.0000000000000759

  2. Title: Mentha rotundifolia (L.) Huds. and Salvia officinalis L. hydrosols mitigate aging related comorbidities in rats
    Authors: Boualam K., Ibork H., Lahboub Z., Sobeh M., Taghzouti K.
    Year: 2024
    Source: Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience
    DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2024.1365086

  3. Title: Cannabidiol-rich Cannabis sativa L. Extract Alleviates LPS-Induced Neuroinflammation in Male Mice: Computational Inference with Deep Learning Approach
    Authors: Hind Ibork, Zakaria Ait Lhaj, Khadija Boualam, Sara El Idrissi, Ahmet Ortaakarsu, Lhoussain Hajji, Annabelle Morgan, Farid Khallouki, Khalid Taghzouti, Oualid Abboussi
    Year: 2024 (Preprint)
    Source: Preprint
    DOI: 10.22541/au.172481353.33736165/v1

  4. Title: Bioactive strawberry fruit (Arbutus unedo L.) extract remedies paraquat-induced neurotoxicity in the offspring prenatally exposed rats
    Authors: Ait Lhaj Z., Ibork H., El Idrissi S., Ait Lhaj F., Sobeh M., Mohamed W.M.Y., Alamy M., Taghzouti K., Abboussi O.
    Year: 2023
    Source: Frontiers in Neuroscience
    DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1244603

  5. Title: Cannabinoid receptor CB2 agonist attenuates cocaine-induced reinstatement of place preference in mice: Possible role for microglia immunometabolism
    Authors: Abboussi O., Khan Z.A., Ibork H., Zulu S.S., Daniels W., Taghzouti K., Hales T.G.
    Year: 2023
    Source: Research Square
    DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2483808/v1

  6. Title: Effect of Cannabidiol in LPS-induced toxicity in astrocytes: Possible role for cannabinoid type-1 receptors
    Authors: Ibork H., El Idrissi S., Zulu S.S., Miller R., Hajji L., Morgan A.M., Taghzouti K., Abboussi O.
    Year: 2023
    Source: Research Square
    DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2514838/v1

  7. Title: Restraint Stress Exacerbates Apoptosis in a 6-OHDA Animal Model of Parkinson Disease
    Authors: Idrissi S.E., Fath N., Ibork H., Taghzouti K., Alamy M., Abboussi O.
    Year: 2023
    Source: Neurotoxicity Research
    DOI: 10.1007/s12640-022-00630-3

  8. Title: Effect of Cannabidiol in LPS-Induced Toxicity in Astrocytes: Possible Role for Cannabinoid Type-1 Receptors
    Authors: Hind Ibork, Sara El Idrissi, Simo Siyanda Zulu, Robert Miller, Lhoussain Hajji, Annabelle Manalo Morgan, Khalid Taghzouti, Oualid Abboussi
    Year: 2023 (December)
    Source: Neurotoxicity Research
    DOI: 10.1007/s12640-023-00671-2

Justine Julien | Neurology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Justine Julien | Neurology | Best Researcher Award

Resident of Penn State Health Hershey Medical Center, United States.

Justine Julien is a dedicated neurology resident at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, with a robust academic and research background. She earned her medical degree from Drexel University College of Medicine and holds a Bachelor of Science from Baruch College. Her research includes studying senescence in Alzheimer’s disease and genetic work with mice, under notable advisors such as Dr. Claudio Torres and Dr. Jason Munshi-South. Julien has contributed to publications in Cureus and Epilepsy & Behavior Reports, showcasing her work on neurological manifestations and epilepsy. She actively participates in academic conferences, including the Penry Resident’s Epilepsy Program and various journal clubs. Her honors include Dean’s List and Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society. Julien’s extensive volunteer experience spans medical clinics and educational mentoring, demonstrating her commitment to both professional and community service. Her multifaceted experience and achievements underscore her potential as a prominent researcher in neurology.

Profile
Education

Justine Julien’s educational journey reflects a commitment to excellence and a strong foundation in medical and scientific disciplines. She is currently pursuing a Neurology Residency at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, where she is honing her skills in diagnosing and treating neurological disorders. Prior to this, she earned her Doctor of Medicine degree from Drexel University College of Medicine, where she developed a robust understanding of medical sciences and clinical practice. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science from Baruch College, where she graduated Cum Laude and was recognized with honors such as Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society and Golden Key. Julien’s educational background is complemented by a high school education from Stuyvesant High School, which provided her with a solid academic foundation. Her diverse educational experiences have equipped her with the knowledge and skills essential for advancing in her medical and research career.

Professional Experience

Justine Julien’s professional experience showcases a robust background in both clinical and research settings. Currently, she is in her Neurology Residency at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, where she hones her clinical skills and deepens her expertise in neurology. Prior to this, she earned her medical degree from Drexel University College of Medicine and a Bachelor of Science from Baruch College. Her research experience includes work at Drexel University, where she investigated senescence in Alzheimer’s disease, and at Baruch College, focusing on genetic analysis of white-footed mice. Additionally, she has contributed to various volunteer roles, including serving as a Pharmacy Technician at Rite Aid and supporting community clinics. Her dedication to medical education and research is also evident in her active involvement in journal clubs and conferences, reflecting her commitment to advancing neurological science and patient care.

Research Interest

Justine Julien’s research interests are deeply rooted in neurology and neurodegenerative diseases. Her work encompasses studying senescence in Alzheimer’s disease, focusing on the differential expression of senescence markers in affected neurons. This foundational research, conducted during her time at Drexel University, has provided insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s. Currently, as a resident at Penn State Hershey Medical Center, her research continues to evolve with a focus on the diagnosis and management of atypical forms of Alzheimer’s disease and other neurological disorders. Additionally, Julien’s recent studies address the impact of exercise and neurostimulation on epilepsy, contributing to understanding physical activity’s role in managing seizure disorders. Her research aims to bridge clinical observations with practical treatment strategies, reflecting a commitment to advancing knowledge in neurology and improving patient outcomes through innovative approaches in both research and clinical practice.

Research Skills

Justine Julien possesses a well-rounded set of research skills demonstrated through her varied experiences in neurology and genetics. Her proficiency in analyzing complex neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease and epilepsy, is evident from her hands-on research with senescence markers and her contributions to notable publications. Justine’s ability to perform detailed molecular techniques, including DNA/RNA extraction and electrophoresis, showcases her technical expertise in genetic research. Her experience extends to effectively communicating research findings, as demonstrated by her presentations at conferences and journal clubs. Additionally, Justine’s involvement in both collaborative and independent research projects reflects her adaptability and problem-solving skills. Her commitment to ongoing education and engagement with the scientific community further underscores her strong research acumen. Overall, Justine’s skills in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication mark her as a proficient and dedicated researcher.

Awards and Recognition

Justine Julien has received several accolades throughout her academic and professional journey, underscoring her dedication and excellence in the field of neurology. She was honored with membership in the Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society in 2010 and the Golden Key International Honour Society in 2012, reflecting her outstanding academic achievements. Her consistent academic performance earned her a spot on the Dean’s List from 2012 to 2014 and a Cum Laude distinction upon graduating with her Bachelor of Science degree in 2014. Julien’s contributions to research are further recognized through her publications in reputable journals such as Cureus and Epilepsy & Behavior Reports. Her involvement in high-profile conferences, including the Penry Resident’s Epilepsy Program and the Neurology Grand Rounds, demonstrates her active engagement and growing influence in the field. These awards and recognitions highlight her commitment to advancing medical knowledge and her potential as a leading researcher.

Conclusion

Justine Julien is a strong candidate for the “Best Researcher Award,” particularly due to her diverse research experiences, notable publications, and active participation in academic and community service. To enhance her candidacy, focusing on a specific research niche, demonstrating independent leadership in research, and increasing the dissemination and funding of her research could further strengthen her profile. Her commitment to both research and community service highlights her potential as a leading researcher in her field.