Gejla Toromani | Biochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Ms. Gejla Toromani | Biochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Miami University | United States

Ms. Gejla Toromani is an Honors College undergraduate researcher majoring in Biology with a premedical concentration at Miami University, with an expected graduation in 2026. Her interdisciplinary research spans virology, regenerative medicine, oncology, climate biology, and biomedical physics. She has contributed to at least five peer-reviewed publications in reputable international journals, including AIP Advances, Cureus, Annals of Plastic Surgery, and Medicina, and has presented her work at major national and international conferences. Her research experience includes a competitive summer fellowship at the University of Illinois Chicago, collaborative cancer database studies with multiple U.S. institutions, and long-term ecological analyses of Antarctic algae under climate stress. Through translational projects such as VR therapy for Parkinson’s disease and crisis mental health support, her work demonstrates clear societal relevance. Actively engaged in leadership and undergraduate research advocacy, she represents a strong emerging scholar with meaningful global and community impact.

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Magdalena Koziol | Biochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Magdalena Koziol | Biochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Chinese Instistute for Brain Research | China

Dr. Magdalena Koziol is an Assistant Professor and Principal Investigator at the Chinese Institute for Brain Research (CIBR), China, where she leads an innovative research program at the intersection of developmental biology, epigenetics, and neuroscience. She completed her PhD in Developmental Biology at the University of Cambridge, UK, supported by a prestigious Wellcome Trust Studentship, with laboratory rotations under globally recognized leaders including Sir John B. Gurdon, Sarah Bray, and Azim Surani. Prior to this, she earned a BSc in Medical Genetics from the University of Leicester, UK, where she received two academic excellence awards, and previously undertook Physics studies at the University of Stuttgart, Germany. Dr. Koziol’s postdoctoral career includes highly competitive appointments with Sir John B. Gurdon at the Gurdon Institute, Antonio Giraldez at Yale University, and John Rinn at Harvard University and the Broad Institute. Her interdisciplinary background has helped shape a research portfolio focused on uncovering previously unknown chemical modifications of DNA and RNA and understanding their functional relevance in the vertebrate brain. Her groundbreaking discovery of methylated deoxyadenosine (m6dA) in vertebrate genomes, published in 2015, established a new field of study in epigenetic regulation and earned recognition from AAAS Science for excellence in scientific achievement. Her research has secured major competitive funding, including support from the Beijing Natural Science Foundation, the Koziol Laboratory core funding at CIBR, the BBSRC (UK), the Isaac Newton Trust, and the Human Frontiers Long-Term Fellowship program. She has also been recognized with distinguished honors, including an invitation to Buckingham Palace by Queen Elizabeth II. Through high-impact publications, international collaboration, and translational scientific vision, Dr. Koziol’s work contributes to advancing molecular neuroscience, with growing implications for understanding brain disorders and developing therapeutic strategies.

Profiles: ORCID

Featured Publications

Li, S., Zhang, S., Li, H., Yin, N., Yang, R., Zhang, Y., Koziol, M. J., & Faiola, F. (2025). Environmental UV filters threaten human neurodevelopment: Disruption of central and peripheral nervous system lineage commitment via WNT signaling dysregulation.

Feng, S., & Koziol, M. J. (2025). Unraveling brain complexity: From single-cell to spatial m6A technologies.

Feng, S., Tellaetxe-Abete, M., Zhang, Y., Peng, Y., Zhou, H., Dong, M., Larrea, E., Xue, L., Zhang, L., & Koziol, M. J. (2024). Single-cell discovery of m6A RNA modifications in the hippocampus.

Feng, S., Tellaetxe-Abete, M., Zhang, Y., Peng, Y., Zhou, H., Dong, M., Larrea, E., Xue, L., Zhang, L., & Koziol, M. J. (2023, December 13). Single-cell discovery of m6A RNA modifications in the hippocampus.

Wen, M.-H., Triana, H. B., Butler, R., Hu, H.-W., Dai, Y.-H., Lawrence, N., Hong, J.-J., Garrett, N., Jones-Green, R., Rawlins, E. L., & others. (2023). Deterministic nuclear reprogramming of mammalian nuclei to a totipotency-like state by amphibian meiotic oocytes for stem cell therapy in humans.

Georgia Zahariou | Biochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Georgia Zahariou | Biochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, NCSR “Demokritos”, Athens, Greece

Dr. Georgia Zahariou is an accomplished physicist specializing in Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, photosynthetic water oxidation mechanisms, and bioinorganic magnetic materials. She is currently a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology at the National Center for Scientific Research (NCSR) Demokritos in Athens, Greece, where she contributes to cutting-edge research on photosystem II and the molecular mechanisms underlying oxygen evolution. Dr. Zahariou earned her Ph.D. in Physics from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens in collaboration with NCSR Demokritos, graduating with Excellence. Her doctoral research focused on spin-spin interactions in metalloradical systems and the mechanistic study of natural photosynthetic water splitting, forming the foundation of her long-term scientific trajectory. She also holds a Master’s degree in Solid-State Physics and a Bachelor’s degree in Physics from the same institution. With extensive research experience across leading laboratories in Greece and internationally—including the University of Padova and the University of Crete—Dr. Zahariou has contributed to multiple national and European research programs such as HELIOS, THALIS, and KRIPIS. She has presented her work at numerous international conferences, delivered invited talks, and earned important distinctions including the Young Talent Award (2015) and the 4th Poster Prize (2007) from the International Society of Photosynthesis Research. Her scientific output includes over 25 peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, and conference proceedings, with contributions published in high-impact venues like Angewandte Chemie, FEBS Letters, and Biochemistry. Her research features both experimental and theoretical studies, reflecting strong interdisciplinary expertise in spectroscopy, magnetochemistry, molecular bioenergetics, and computational modeling. Dr. Zahariou’s work continues to advance global understanding of catalytic mechanisms in natural and artificial photosynthesis, positioning her as a recognized expert in magnetic resonance applications to biological energy conversion.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. (2021). Di-2-pyridyl ketone-based ligands as evergreen “trees” in the “forest” of manganese chemistry: Mononuclear Mn(III) complexes from the use of MnF₃. Polyhedron, 207, Article 115350.

  2. (2021). Arrested substrate binding resolves catalytic intermediates in higher-plant water oxidation. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 60, 3156–3162.

  3. (2021). Electronic properties of the S = 5/2 Mn(II) complexes [MnPhC(O)NP(O)PPh₂(N,N)(NO₃)], (N,N) = phenanthroline, neocuproine, 2,2′-bipyridine. Polyhedron, 207, Article 115374.

  4. (2021). Electronic structure of tyrosyl D radical of photosystem II, as revealed by 2D-hyperfine sublevel correlation spectroscopy. Magnetochemistry, 7, Article 131.

  5. (2021). Orientational Jahn–Teller isomerism in the dark-stable state of nature’s water oxidase. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 60, 13493–13499.

Dr. Florence Back | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Florence Back | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at University of Lille, France

Florence Back is a distinguished biomaterials scientist and researcher specializing in bioadhesive and smart wound-healing technologies. Based in Strasbourg, France, she has made significant strides in developing innovative materials for medical applications, including hydrogels and electronic patches for therapeutic uses. Florence’s work is underpinned by advanced training in in vivo procedures and applied chemistry, making her well-versed in both the laboratory synthesis of biomaterials and preclinical surgical applications. Her research has been published in reputable journals, highlighting her commitment to advancing the fields of bioengineering and regenerative medicine. Florence’s research integrates expertise across biology, chemistry, and physics, emphasizing both material functionality and patient-centered applications. She has been involved in collaborative research at prestigious institutions, including CNRS Lille and UC Louvain, and is actively expanding her interdisciplinary contributions to wound care, tissue repair, and bioengineering.

Professional Profile

Education

Florence holds a Ph.D. in Biomaterials from UNISTRA Strasbourg, completed in 2022, where she focused on the synthesis and development of bioadhesives based on gelatin and catechol. This work involved extensive research into the formulation, spectroscopic characterization, and rheological analysis of these bioadhesives. Her doctoral studies were preceded by two specialized master’s degrees, both from UNISTRA Strasbourg, in supramolecular and macromolecular chemistry, completed in 2020 and 2019, respectively. Florence’s master’s education covered advanced techniques in organic and polymer synthesis, including the creation of fluorescent molecules and polymers with unique biochemical properties. Her academic journey includes a series of certifications in in vivo procedures from CNRS Lille, where she developed critical surgical skills required for research involving animal models. Florence’s education has been integral in building her comprehensive understanding of biomaterials and in vivo applications, positioning her as a skilled researcher in medical and chemical sciences.

Professional Experience

Florence’s professional experience includes postdoctoral research and engineering roles focused on advancing biomaterial applications in medicine. Currently, she is a postdoctoral researcher at UC Louvain in Belgium, working on the AI-SWEEP-2 project, which involves the synthesis of electronic patches for smart bandages intended for human use. Prior to this, she served as a biomaterials engineer at CNRS Lille, where she contributed to the ANR Gskin project, focusing on synthesizing and characterizing hydrogels doped with extracellular vesicles for diabetic wound healing. From 2020 to 2022, during her Ph.D. at the Dental Faculty of Strasbourg, Florence specialized in the synthesis of bioadhesives based on gelatin and catechol, marking the beginning of her notable contributions to biomaterials science. These roles have allowed her to develop an integrated approach to material synthesis, characterization, and biological application, emphasizing her commitment to innovation in therapeutic and regenerative materials.

Research Interests

Florence’s research interests center on biomaterials, bioadhesives, and smart wound-healing technologies. Her primary focus is the development and synthesis of bioadhesive hydrogels, which hold promise in tissue repair and regenerative medicine. Additionally, her work extends to smart bandages, integrating electronic patches for wound monitoring and therapeutic delivery, aimed at improving patient outcomes in wound care. She is also interested in the extraction and application of extracellular vesicles in biomaterials, with specific attention to their role in promoting cellular viability and tissue regeneration. Florence’s research leverages a multidisciplinary approach, combining chemistry, biology, and materials science to create innovative solutions that bridge the gap between synthetic materials and biological functions. Her commitment to research that addresses clinical challenges underscores her dedication to advancing biomaterials for direct medical applications.

Research Skills

Florence’s research skills encompass a wide range of laboratory and analytical techniques, particularly in chemistry, biology, and materials science. She is proficient in organic and polymer synthesis, including gel formulation and the development of bioadhesive materials from gelatin, chitosan, and silk hydrogels. Her technical skills include chromatography, spectroscopy (NMR, IR, UV-Vis), and nanoparticle tracking analysis, which she applies in the characterization of synthesized materials. Florence is also skilled in in vivo procedures, certified for surgeries and techniques on various animal models, such as vascular catheterization, cerebral ischemia, and renal grafting. Additionally, her experience extends to cell culture, viability testing, and supervising research protocols. Florence’s ability to conduct comprehensive material characterization combined with her surgical training in vivo highlights her versatility and readiness to bridge laboratory research with applied medical sciences.

Awards and Honors

Florence has achieved various recognitions that reflect her dedication to research excellence in biomaterials. Her doctoral research at UNISTRA Strasbourg earned her acclaim for creating bioadhesive formulations with potential applications in tissue engineering and wound care. Her work has been published in notable journals, including Frontiers in Materials and Gels, indicating her research’s value to the academic and clinical communities. Florence’s role in collaborative projects, such as the ANR Gskin and AI-SWEEP-2, highlights her contributions to interdisciplinary research initiatives aimed at developing innovative therapeutic technologies. Additionally, her certifications in in vivo procedures from CNRS Lille are a testament to her commitment to ethical and skillful research practices. Florence’s career trajectory, marked by research achievements and collaborative contributions, positions her as a promising candidate for awards in scientific innovation and applied biomaterials.

Conclusion

Florence Back demonstrates strong candidacy for a “Best Researcher Award” due to her advanced technical skills in biomaterials, substantial in vivo training, and impactful research in bioadhesives and smart bandage technologies. By addressing minor language skills and pursuing independent research initiatives, she could amplify her contributions and influence in the field.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Optimization of the Elasticity and Adhesion of Catechol- or Dopamine-Loaded Gelatin Gels under Oxidative Conditions
    • Authors: F. Back, E. Mathieu, C. Betscha, Y. Arntz, V. Ball
    • Journal: Gels
    • Year: 2022
    • Volume & Issue: 8(4), Article 210
    • Citations: 7
    • Open Access: Yes
  2. Influence of the NaIO₄ Concentration on the Gelation and the Adhesive Strength of Pyrocatechol/Pyrogallol Containing Gelatin Hydrogels
    • Authors: F. Back, V. Ball, Y. Arntz
    • Journal: Frontiers in Materials
    • Year: 2021
    • Volume & Article: 8, Article 671451
    • Citations: 4
    • Open Access: Yes

 

 

Mohammad Sadegh Hashemzadeh | Biochemistry |Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr. Mohammad Sadegh Hashemzadeh | Biochemistry |Best Researcher Award

Assist. Professor at Nanobiotechnology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Dr. Mohammad Sadegh Hashemzadeh is an accomplished Assistant Professor at Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, specializing in Medical and Nano Biotechnology. He holds a Ph.D. in Nano Biotechnology, with a focus on recombinant protein production for therapeutic applications, including cell therapy for rheumatoid arthritis. Dr. Hashemzadeh has received numerous accolades, including top ranks in his B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. studies, and has published extensively in reputable journals on topics such as nanotechnology, viral protein production, and cancer treatment. His research expertise spans molecular genetics, genetic engineering, and the development of novel diagnostic methods for biological threats. Dr. Hashemzadeh’s contributions to the field are recognized internationally, making him a prominent figure in biotechnology research, particularly in Iran. His work bridges the gap between cutting-edge biotechnology and practical medical applications, reflecting his dedication to advancing health sciences.

Profile

Education

Dr. Mohammad Sadegh Hashemzadeh boasts an exemplary educational background in biotechnology and medical sciences. He began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree, graduating with top honors and consistently ranking first among his peers. Driven by his passion for advanced research, Dr. Hashemzadeh pursued a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree, where he continued to excel academically and was recognized for his outstanding performance. He then attained his Ph.D. in Nano Biotechnology from Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, a prestigious institution in Iran, where he focused on recombinant protein expression and the application of nanotechnology in medical diagnostics. Following his doctoral studies, Dr. Hashemzadeh undertook postdoctoral research at the Pasteur Institute of Iran, specializing in innovative cell therapy techniques for rheumatoid arthritis. Throughout his education, he has received numerous accolades, including the first prize at the 15th International Congress of Microbiology, underscoring his dedication and excellence in the field. His comprehensive education has provided him with a solid foundation in molecular genetics, genetic engineering, and cutting-edge biotechnological methodologies.

Professional Experience

Dr. Mohammad Sadegh Hashemzadeh is an accomplished Assistant Professor at Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, with a strong background in Medical and Nano Biotechnology. His expertise spans molecular genetics, genetic engineering, and cell culture, focusing on producing recombinant proteins for therapeutic applications. Dr. Hashemzadeh’s research interests include cell therapy for rheumatoid arthritis, recombinant protein production, and viral vector engineering. He has completed a Post-Doc in cell therapy of inflammatory diseases and has been involved in various research projects, including the construction of recombinant viruses and the development of viral-like particles (VLPs) for potential therapeutic use. In addition to his research contributions, Dr. Hashemzadeh is an experienced educator, having taught courses in genetics, immunology, and nanotechnology at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. His professional achievements are further underscored by his numerous publications in high-impact journals and his recognition through several awards and honors.

Research Interest

Dr. Mohammad Sadegh Hashemzadeh’s research interests primarily focus on the intersection of medical biotechnology and nano-biotechnology. His work spans the development of advanced therapeutic applications, particularly in molecular genetics, genetic engineering, and cell therapy for inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. He is deeply engaged in the production of recombinant proteins, utilizing cell culture techniques to develop viral vectors and virus-like particles (VLPs) for potential cancer treatments and vaccine development. His research also includes exploring the role of peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) in detecting and treating diseases caused by biological threat agents. Additionally, Dr. Hashemzadeh investigates the application of oncolytic viruses in cancer therapy and the development of novel diagnostic methods using nanotechnology. His work is aimed at translating cutting-edge biotechnological advancements into practical solutions for complex medical challenges, contributing to the fields of virology, immunology, and therapeutic protein production.

Research Skills

Dr. Mohammad Sadegh Hashemzadeh possesses a diverse and advanced skill set in the field of biotechnology and nanotechnology. His expertise encompasses molecular genetics, genetic engineering, and cell culture, with a focus on producing recombinant proteins for therapeutic applications. His research is distinguished by his proficiency in the development and application of viral vectors and protein-based vaccines, particularly in the context of cell therapy and vaccine production. Dr. Hashemzadeh has extensive experience in the expression, solubilization, and purification of recombinant proteins, utilizing techniques such as real-time PCR and nanotechnology for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. His work involves the synthesis and characterization of nanomaterials and viral-like particles (VLPs), contributing to advancements in diagnostic methods and biological threat detection. His skills are supported by a robust publication record in international journals, reflecting his significant contributions to the fields of molecular biotechnology and medical research.

Award and Recognition

Dr. Mohammad Sadegh Hashemzadeh has garnered notable recognition for his exceptional contributions to the fields of biotechnology and nanotechnology. His academic journey is marked by distinguished achievements, including being first-ranked among his peers during his MSc and PhD studies, and receiving accolades such as the First Prize at the 15th International Congress of Microbiology in 2014. His innovative research has been published in prestigious journals, underscoring his influence in the scientific community. Dr. Hashemzadeh’s work on the development of recombinant proteins and viral protein vaccines, as well as his significant contributions to the understanding of biological threat agents through nanotechnology, has earned him commendation. His dedication to advancing medical biotechnology and his role in pioneering research in cell therapy and genetic engineering reflect his outstanding contributions and make him a deserving candidate for further recognition and awards.

Conclusion

Dr. Mohammad Sadegh Hashemzadeh is a highly qualified candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award, with a solid academic foundation, a track record of excellence in research, and contributions to medical biotechnology and nanotechnology. His continuous pursuit of innovative research and dedication to teaching underscore his suitability for this award. However, to further strengthen his candidacy, increased focus on collaborative research, securing research funding, and enhancing the practical application of his work could be beneficial.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and Cancer Chemotherapy: Helpful Tools for Enhancing Chemo-sensitivity and Reducing Side Effects?
    • Authors: Vaghari-Tabari, M., Jafari-Gharabaghlou, D., Mohammadi, M., Hashemzadeh, M.S.
    • Journal: Biological Trace Element Research
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume and Issue: 202(5), pp. 1878–1900
    • Citations: 3
  2. Therapeutic Effects of IL-1RA, M2 Cells, and Their Synergistic Impact on a Mouse Model of Rheumatoid Arthritis
    • Authors: Hashemzadeh, M.S., Ghaleh, H.E.G., Mohammadi, M., Rezaei, E., Alishiri, G.
    • Journal: Advanced Pharmaceutical Bulletin
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume and Issue: 14(2), pp. 483–495
    • Citations: 0
  3. Correction: Biosynthesis of a VLP-type nanocarrier specific to cancer cells using the BEVS expression system for targeted drug delivery (Journal of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, (2023), 21, 1, (20), 10.1186/s43141-023-00479-9)
    • Authors: Hashemzadeh, M.S., Gharari, N.
    • Journal: Journal of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
    • Year: 2023
    • Volume and Issue: 21(1), 40
    • Citations: 1
  4. Biosynthesis of a VLP-type nanocarrier specific to cancer cells using the BEVS expression system for targeted drug delivery
    • Authors: Hashemzadeh, M.S., Gharari, N.
    • Journal: Journal of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
    • Year: 2023
    • Volume and Issue: 21(1), 20
    • Citations: 3
  5. Utilization of Freeze-Thawing Method for High-level Expression of Functional Human Epidermal Growth Factor (hEGF)
    • Authors: Mohammadi, M., Ghanbari, S., Emamgholi, A., Hashemzadeh, M.S.
    • Journal: International Journal of Peptide Research and Therapeutics
    • Year: 2023
    • Volume and Issue: 29(3), 38
    • Citations: 1
  6. Utilization of SUMO Tag and Freeze-thawing Method for a High-level Expression and Solubilization of Recombinant Human Angiotensin-converting Enzyme 2 (rhACE2) Protein in E. coli
    • Authors: Mohammadi, M., Taheri, R.A., Bemani, P., Farnoosh, G., Amini, R.
    • Journal: Protein and Peptide Letters
    • Year: 2022
    • Volume and Issue: 29(7), pp. 605–610
    • Citations: 4
  7. Evaluation of the acute and 28-day sub-acute intravenous toxicity of α-l-guluronic acid (ALG; G2013) in mice
    • Authors: Mahdian-Shakib, A., Hashemzadeh, M.S., Anissian, A., Oraei, M., Mirshafiey, A.
    • Journal: Drug and Chemical Toxicology
    • Year: 2022
    • Volume and Issue: 45(1), pp. 151–160
    • Citations: 6
  8. The role of bacterial superantigens in the immune response: From biology to cancer treatment
    • Authors: Hashemzadeh, M.S., Tapeh, B.E.G., Mirhosseini, S.A.
    • Journal: Current Cancer Therapy Reviews
    • Year: 2021
    • Volume and Issue: 17(1), pp. 21–34
    • Citations: 1
  9. Expression, solubilization, refolding and final purification of recombinant proteins as expressed in the form of “classical inclusion bodies” in e. coli
    • Authors: Hashemzadeh, M.S., Mohammadi, M., Ghaleh, H.E.G., Choopani, A., Panda, A.K.
    • Journal: Protein and Peptide Letters
    • Year: 2021
    • Volume and Issue: 28(2), pp. 2–10
    • Citations: 16
  10. Detection of West Nile virus by real-time PCR in crows in northern provinces of Iran
    • Authors: Sharti, M., Amouakbari, M.J., Pourjabari, K., Omidifar, A., Dorostkar, R.
    • Journal: Journal of Vector Borne Diseases
    • Year: 2020
    • Volume and Issue: 57(1), pp. 37–39
    • Citations: 2