Rohidas Arote | Pharmaceutical Science | Biotechnology Advancement Award

Prof. Rohidas Arote | Pharmaceutical Science | Biotechnology Advancement Award

Dr. Rohidas B. Arote is a distinguished professor in the Center for Nano and Material Sciences at Jain University, Bangalore, India. With over two decades of experience in biotechnology, gene therapy, and drug delivery, he has made substantial contributions to biomedical research. His expertise lies in biomaterials, pharmacology, toxicology, and theranostics, particularly in cancer, immune, and regenerative therapies. Having served as a professor at Seoul National University (SNU), a globally ranked institution, he has led groundbreaking research in non-viral gene delivery systems and targeted drug delivery for cancer therapy. Dr. Arote has secured major research grants, collaborated with international institutions, and delivered invited talks at global conferences. He has received prestigious awards such as the Creative Pioneering Research Award and IAAM Scientist Medal. In addition to his academic achievements, he actively contributes to international scientific societies, reviews for high-impact journals, and organizes leading scientific conferences. With a strong track record of publications, research funding, and innovation, Dr. Arote continues to be a key figure in biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences, advancing cutting-edge solutions for healthcare and drug development.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Rohidas B. Arote holds a Ph.D. in Biotechnology (2009) from Seoul National University, South Korea, where he specialized in gene therapy and drug delivery systems. His doctoral research focused on developing non-viral polymeric gene carriers for targeted cancer therapy. Before pursuing his Ph.D., he earned a Master of Science (M.S.) in Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry (2002) from the University of Mumbai, India, where he gained expertise in natural product chemistry and pharmaceutical formulations. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Pharmaceutical Sciences (2000) from the University of Pune, India, equipping him with a strong foundation in pharmaceutics, drug formulation, and biotechnology. Throughout his education, he has been a recipient of several prestigious fellowships, including the Brain Korea (BK21) Fellowship (2008) and the Korea Science and Engineering Fellowship (KOSEF) (2005). He was also a GATE Scholar in Pharmacy (2000), a competitive national-level qualification exam conducted by IIT Kharagpur, India. His interdisciplinary academic background, spanning biotechnology, pharmaceutical sciences, and biomedical engineering, has enabled him to develop innovative solutions in gene therapy, biomaterials, and targeted drug delivery.

Professional Experience

Dr. Rohidas B. Arote has over 20 years of academic and research experience across prestigious institutions worldwide. He is currently a Professor at the Center for Nano and Material Sciences, Jain University, Bangalore (2021-present), where he leads cutting-edge research in nanomedicine and biomaterials. Prior to this, he served at Seoul National University (SNU), South Korea, as an Associate Professor (2017-2020) and Assistant Professor (2010-2017), where he developed gene delivery technologies for cancer therapy. He also worked as a Research Associate (2009-2010) at SNU, focusing on polymeric carriers for gene therapy. In addition, he held visiting professor positions at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Saudi Arabia (2019-2020), and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore (2019-2020), contributing to advanced biomedical research. Early in his career, he gained industry experience as a Formulation & Development Scientist at Ajanta Pharma Ltd, Mumbai (2003-2004). His diverse academic, research, and industry experience has made him a leader in drug delivery, biomaterials, and biomedical engineering.

Research Interests

Dr. Rohidas B. Arote’s research focuses on gene therapy, drug delivery, biomaterials, biomedical engineering, pharmacology, toxicology, and theranostics. He is particularly interested in developing novel non-viral gene delivery systems for targeted cancer therapy. His work involves designing biodegradable polymeric nanocarriers for effective gene transfection, with applications in cancer, immune, and regenerative therapies. He explores nanotechnology-based drug delivery to enhance the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of pharmaceuticals. Additionally, he investigates biocompatible materials for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, contributing to the development of next-generation biomaterials for medical applications. His interdisciplinary research bridges biotechnology, materials science, and pharmaceutical sciences, addressing critical challenges in disease treatment and drug delivery. Through collaborations with global research institutions, he continues to push the boundaries of biomedical research by integrating nanomedicine, molecular biology, and bioengineering to develop innovative therapeutic strategies.

Research Skills

Dr. Rohidas B. Arote possesses a diverse set of advanced research skills in biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences. He is an expert in nanotechnology-based drug delivery, specializing in the synthesis and characterization of biodegradable polymers for gene therapy applications. He has expertise in molecular biology techniques, including gene cloning, siRNA delivery, and CRISPR-based genome editing. His skills extend to polymeric biomaterials design, nanoparticle synthesis, and surface modification for targeted drug delivery. He is proficient in in vitro and in vivo models for evaluating gene expression, drug efficacy, and toxicity in preclinical studies. Additionally, he has experience in high-throughput screening, bioinformatics, and computational modeling for drug formulation optimization. His research involves the development of multifunctional polymeric carriers, receptor-mediated drug targeting, and biodegradable materials for regenerative medicine. His strong analytical and problem-solving abilities have enabled him to successfully secure research funding, publish in top-tier scientific journals, and contribute to cutting-edge biomedical innovations.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Rohidas B. Arote has received numerous prestigious awards for his pioneering research in gene therapy and biomaterials. He was honored with the Creative Pioneering Research Award (2017) from Seoul National University, recognizing his innovative contributions to biomedical research. He also received the IAAM Scientist Medal (2017) from the International Association of Advanced Materials, highlighting his excellence in advanced materials and nanomedicine. Other notable accolades include the Research Excellence Award (2010) from the Research Institute for Agriculture and Life Sciences and the Young Scientist Award (2008) from the 16th POLYCHAR: World Forum on Advanced Materials. He has been a Brain Korea (BK21) Fellow (2008) and received the Korea Science and Engineering Fellowship (KOSEF) (2005). His early academic achievements include being a GATE Scholar in Pharmacy (2000), a highly competitive national-level distinction. These awards reflect his outstanding research contributions, leadership in academia, and dedication to advancing biomedical sciences.

Conclusion

Dr. Rohidas B. Arote is an exceptional researcher and academic leader with a remarkable career spanning over two decades in biotechnology, gene therapy, and drug delivery. His contributions in biomaterials, nanomedicine, and regenerative therapies have significantly advanced the field of biomedical sciences. Through his research, funding acquisitions, and scientific collaborations, he has played a crucial role in developing novel drug delivery systems for cancer therapy. His achievements in securing high-impact publications, international awards, and research grants showcase his dedication to scientific excellence. In addition to his research, he has contributed as a peer reviewer, conference organizer, and mentor, shaping the next generation of biomedical researchers. As a professor at Jain University, Bangalore, and a former faculty member at Seoul National University, he continues to lead groundbreaking research in nanomedicine. With his strong academic background, innovative research, and global scientific impact, Dr. Arote stands as a deserving candidate for prestigious research awards, making a lasting impact in healthcare and pharmaceutical sciences.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Microfluidics in Bioanalytical Chemistry
    Authors: R. Nisarga, P.P. Pandit, J.N. Sangshetti, R.B. Arote
    Year: Not provided

  2. Title: Exploring Antibiofilm Potential of Some New Imidazole Analogs Against C. Albicans: Synthesis, Antifungal Activity, Molecular Docking and Molecular Dynamics Studies
    Authors: S.K. Pathan, A.V. Shelar, S.U. Deshmukh, R.H. Patil, J.N. Sangshetti
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 1

  3. Title: In Silico Structure-Based Drug Design Approach to Find Potential Hits in Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia Caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa
    Authors: M.G. Damale, R.B. Patil, S.A. Ansari, R.B. Arote, J.N. Sangshetti
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 2

  4. Title: Efficient Gene Transfection to Lung Cancer Cells via Folate-PEI-Sorbitol Gene Transporter
    Authors: K. Cho, S. Kim, H. Chun, A. Lee, R.B. Arote
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 6

  5. Title: Development of Novel, Biocompatible, Polyester Amines for Microglia-Targeting Gene Delivery
    Authors: B. Choi, M. Ahn, S. Hong, R.B. Arote, S.J. Lee
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 1

  6. Title: Insights of Tankyrases: A Novel Target for Drug Discovery
    Authors: M.G. Damale, S.K. Pathan, D.B. Shinde, R.B. Arote, J.N. Sangshetti
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 26

  7. Title: Boric Acid: A Versatile Catalyst in Organic Synthesis
    Authors: S.K. Pathan, P.R. Mahaparale, S.U. Deshmukh, R.B. Arote, J.N. Sangshetti
    Year: Not provided
    Citations: 5

Soha Ismai | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Life Sciences Innovation Award

Assist Prof Dr. Soha Ismai | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Life Sciences Innovation Award

Assistant Professor, EDA, Egypt

With a solid foundation in pharmacy, including a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD from Cairo University, and a position as Associate Professor, this individual demonstrates exceptional expertise. Their diverse professional experience spans quality control, management, and academic roles, showcasing their leadership and practical knowledge in the pharmaceutical field. Their prolific research output includes numerous publications on advanced drug delivery systems and nanotechnology, reflecting significant contributions to pharmaceutical sciences. Active participation in various training courses, workshops, and international conferences highlights their commitment to continuous professional development. Additionally, their multilingual skills enhance their ability to collaborate in diverse settings. Overall, their comprehensive background in education, research, and professional development, combined with their active engagement in the scientific community, makes them a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Education

The candidate has a robust educational background that serves as the foundation of their expertise in the field of pharmaceutical sciences. They earned a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from Cairo University in 1996, graduating with honors, which set the stage for their academic and professional journey. Their pursuit of advanced knowledge led them to complete a Master’s degree in Pharmaceutics in 2007 and later a PhD in 2011, both from the same esteemed institution. This rigorous academic training has equipped them with in-depth knowledge of pharmaceutics, drug formulation, and pharmaceutical analysis. In 2019, they further solidified their academic credentials by attaining the position of Associate Professor, demonstrating their commitment to education, research, and mentorship. Their continuous academic progression reflects a strong commitment to excellence and a desire to contribute significantly to the pharmaceutical sciences, positioning them as a thought leader in their field and a prime candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Profesional Experience

The candidate has an extensive professional background in the pharmaceutical sector, beginning their career as a QC analyst for raw materials at NODCAR from 1996 to 1999. They then transitioned to academia as a teaching assistant at the Faculty of Pharmacy, October University, in 1999. Between 2000 and 2012, they worked as a QC analyst specializing in physical properties before moving into management roles, including quality manager and deputy lab manager. From 2016 to 2021, they served as a technical manager, demonstrating their expertise in overseeing laboratory operations and maintaining quality standards. Their role expanded further as they joined several committees, contributing to updating pharmaceutical guidelines and developing the Egyptian pharmacopeia. In 2021, they became the lab manager of the physicochemical lab at the Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA), where they continue to lead and innovate in quality control and research.

Research Skill

The candidate possesses exceptional research skills, demonstrated through a prolific publication record in high-impact journals and extensive experience in developing innovative pharmaceutical formulations. They have expertise in designing and conducting complex experimental studies, including the use of advanced methodologies like Box–Behnken design for optimization and in vivo evaluations. Their research work spans various domains, including nanotechnology, ocular drug delivery, and gastroretentive systems, showcasing versatility and a strong ability to adapt to emerging scientific trends. Additionally, their role in supervising master’s and PhD theses highlights their leadership in guiding future researchers. The candidate is also well-versed in utilizing statistical analysis tools and quality-by-design approaches, which are critical for ensuring the rigor and reliability of research findings. Their ability to translate research into practical applications, coupled with active participation in committees that shape pharmaceutical guidelines, underscores a profound impact on both academic and industry standards in the pharmaceutical sciences.

Awards And Recoginition

The individual has received multiple accolades throughout their career, reflecting their outstanding contributions to the field of pharmaceutical sciences. Their expertise in pharmaceutics and dedication to research have been recognized by esteemed institutions and professional bodies. Notably, they have been honored for their innovative work in drug delivery systems and quality management, which have had a significant impact on the pharmaceutical industry. They have been a valuable member of committees responsible for updating pharmaceutical guidelines and establishing national standards, further highlighting their influence and leadership in the field. Additionally, their research publications in renowned international journals have been widely cited, earning them recognition among peers as a leading researcher. Their participation in prestigious conferences and workshops, both as a presenter and a participant, underscores their commitment to continuous learning and sharing knowledge. These recognitions affirm their position as a distinguished professional dedicated to advancing pharmaceutical science and improving healthcare outcomes.

Conclution

The individual’s blend of academic excellence, practical experience, prolific research output, and continuous professional growth makes them a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Their achievements reflect their dedication to advancing pharmaceutical science and their impact on the field.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Enhanced wound healing activity of naturally derived Lagenaria siceraria seed oil binary nanoethosomal gel: formulation, characterization, in vitro/in vivo efficiency
    • Authors: Nagham H. Kamal, Fatema R. Saber, Abeer Salama, Dalia M. N. Abouhussein, Soha Ismail, Hala M. El-Hefnawy, Meselhy R. Meselhy
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: Kamal NH, Saber FR, Salama A, Abouhussein DMN, Ismail S, El-Hefnawy HM, Meselhy MR. Enhanced wound healing activity of naturally derived Lagenaria siceraria seed oil binary nanoethosomal gel: formulation, characterization, in vitro/in vivo efficiency. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences. 2024 Aug 19. doi:10.1186/s43094-024-00678-2.
  2. Mucoadhesive Chitosan Composite Sponge as a Carrier for β-Sitosterol Cubosomes for Thermal Burn Treatment
    • Authors: Abeer Khattab, Soha Ismail, Areeg M. Abd-Elrazek
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: Khattab A, Ismail S, Abd-Elrazek AM. Mucoadhesive Chitosan Composite Sponge as a Carrier for β-Sitosterol Cubosomes for Thermal Burn Treatment. AAPS PharmSciTech. 2024 Jun 27. doi:10.1208/s12249-024-02852-4.
  3. Optimization of topical curcumin spanlastics for melanoma treatment
    • Authors: Soha Ismail, Doaa Garhy, Howida K. Ibrahim
    • Year: 2023
    • Citation: Ismail S, Garhy D, Ibrahim HK. Optimization of topical curcumin spanlastics for melanoma treatment. Pharmaceutical Development and Technology. 2023 May 28. doi:10.1080/10837450.2023.2204926.
  4. Spanlastics nanovesicular ocular insert as a novel ocular delivery of travoprost: optimization using Box–Behnken design and in vivo evaluation
    • Authors: Marwa H. Shukr, Soha Ismail, Ghada G. El-Hossary, Amany H. El-Shazly
    • Year: 2022
    • Citation: Shukr MH, Ismail S, El-Hossary GG, El-Shazly AH. Spanlastics nanovesicular ocular insert as a novel ocular delivery of travoprost: optimization using Box–Behnken design and in vivo evaluation. Journal of Liposome Research. 2022 Oct 2. doi:10.1080/08982104.2022.2025828.
  5. Alfuzosin hydrochloride-loaded low-density gastroretentive sponges: development, in vitro characterization and gastroretentive monitoring in healthy volunteers via MRI
    • Authors: Marwa Farrag Abd El-Aziz, Soha Ismail, Mina Ibrahim Tadros, Mohamed Ahmed Elnabarawi
    • Year: 2020
    • Citation: Abd El-Aziz MF, Ismail S, Tadros MI, Elnabarawi MA. Alfuzosin hydrochloride-loaded low-density gastroretentive sponges: development, in vitro characterization and gastroretentive monitoring in healthy volunteers via MRI. Pharmaceutical Development and Technology. 2020 May 27. doi:10.1080/10837450.2020.1720235.
  6. Development and optimization of ezetimibe nanoparticles with improved antihyperlipidemic activity
    • Authors: Marwa H. Shukr, Soha Ismail, Samya Mahmoud Ahmed
    • Year: 2019
    • Citation: Shukr MH, Ismail S, Ahmed SM. Development and optimization of ezetimibe nanoparticles with improved antihyperlipidemic activity. Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology. 2019 Feb. doi:10.1016/j.jddst.2018.12.001.
  7. Butoconazole nitrate vaginal sponge: Drug release and antifungal efficacy
    • Authors: Dalia S. Shaker, Soha Ismail, Selwan Hamed, Eman M. El-Shishtawy
    • Year: 2018
    • Citation: Shaker DS, Ismail S, Hamed S, El-Shishtawy EM. Butoconazole nitrate vaginal sponge: Drug release and antifungal efficacy. Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology. 2018 Dec. doi:10.1016/j.jddst.2018.09

 

Rashna Mirza | Pharmaceutical Science | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Rashna Mirza | Pharmaceutical Science | Best Researcher Award

PhD scholar of Quaid-i-Azam University, Pakistan.

Rashna Mirza is a distinguished researcher currently pursuing a PhD at Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, focusing on advanced drug delivery systems, including brain-targeted transfersomes and optimized nano-transfersomes. A Gold Medalist in Pharm D from People’s University of Medical and Health Sciences for Women, she has demonstrated exceptional academic and research prowess. Her professional experience includes roles in quality assurance, pharmaceutical research, and laboratory supervision, showcasing her expertise in drug formulation and optimization. Rashna’s commitment to the field is reflected in her impactful publications and active participation in conferences. Her strengths lie in cutting-edge research, scientific communication, and organizational skills, though expanding her research impact and gaining leadership experience could further enhance her profile. Rashna’s background and achievements make her a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award.

Profile

Education

Rashna Mirza’s educational background reflects her strong commitment to the field of pharmaceutics. She is currently pursuing a PhD at Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, with research focused on advanced drug delivery systems, including brain targeting of Cefepime-loaded transfersomes and optimization of nano-transfersomes for transdermal delivery. Prior to her PhD, Rashna completed her M.Phil at the same institution, where she continued to build on her expertise in pharmaceutics. She earned her Pharm D from People’s University of Medical and Health Sciences for Women, where she graduated as a Gold Medalist, underscoring her exceptional academic performance. Rashna’s foundational education includes an FSC Pre-Medical from Government Girls Degree College, Islamabad, and matriculation from Foundation Public School, Karachi. This robust educational background has equipped her with a deep understanding of pharmaceutical sciences and a solid foundation for her research career.

Professional Experience

Rashna Mirza has a diverse professional background that underscores her expertise in pharmaceutics and drug development. Currently pursuing her PhD at Quaid-i-Azam University, she is engaged in pioneering research on brain-targeted drug delivery systems and transdermal gels. Her experience includes working as a Lab Demonstrator at Quaid-i-Azam University, where she managed laboratory work, supervised experiments, and facilitated instructional activities. She also served as a Quality Assurance Inspector at Herbiotics, where she conducted inspections, quality audits, and process monitoring. Additionally, Rashna worked as a Retail Pharmacist at Punjab Pharmacy, handling inventory management, patient counseling, and medication therapy management. Her academic journey is marked by her gold medal achievement in Pharm D from People’s University of Medical and Health Sciences for Women. Her professional roles reflect her strong organizational, supervisory, and research skills, contributing significantly to her field.

Research Interest

Rashna Mirza’s research interests center on the development and optimization of novel drug delivery systems to enhance therapeutic outcomes. Her current PhD research focuses on innovative approaches such as brain-targeting of Cefepime-loaded transfersomes and the formulation of nano-transfersomes-based chitosan gels for transdermal delivery. This work aims to improve drug efficacy and patient compliance through advanced delivery mechanisms. Rashna is also interested in the formulation and optimization of thermosensitive in situ gels, exploring their potential for controlled and targeted drug release. Her research integrates both in vitro and in vivo studies to address challenges in pharmaceutical science, emphasizing the importance of precise drug delivery for effective treatment. Rashna’s work is characterized by a commitment to advancing pharmaceutics through rigorous experimentation and collaboration, contributing valuable insights to the field and aiming to bridge gaps in current drug delivery technologies.

Research Skills

Rashna Mirza exhibits a strong suite of research skills that underscore her capabilities in advancing the field of pharmaceutics. Her expertise in drug formulation and optimization is evident through her current PhD research, which involves innovative drug delivery systems such as brain-targeting transfersomes and nano-transfersomes. Rashna’s proficiency in statistical design and optimization further enhances her ability to develop and refine novel drug delivery methods. Her hands-on laboratory skills are complemented by her experience in quality assurance and process monitoring, ensuring meticulous evaluation and control of research processes. Additionally, Rashna’s solid background in scientific communication and report writing enables her to effectively present and disseminate research findings. Her involvement in interdisciplinary collaboration and active participation in conferences reflects her commitment to integrating diverse perspectives and advancing scientific knowledge. Overall, Rashna’s research skills demonstrate a well-rounded and impactful approach to pharmaceutics and drug development.

Award and Recognition

Rashna Mirza, a distinguished researcher and Gold Medalist in Pharm D, has garnered significant recognition for her contributions to the field of pharmaceutics. Her innovative research on drug delivery systems, including brain-targeting transfersomes and nano-transfersome optimization, has been widely acknowledged within the scientific community. Rashna’s work is prominently featured in impactful publications, reflecting her dedication to advancing drug formulation and optimization. Her role as a Lab Demonstrator and Quality Assurance Inspector highlights her exceptional skills in scientific communication, process improvement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Additionally, Rashna’s participation in notable conferences and her involvement in quality audits further underscore her commitment to excellence in pharmaceutical research. These achievements collectively affirm her as a leading figure in her field, earning her well-deserved recognition and positioning her as a promising candidate for prestigious awards in pharmaceutics and drug development.

Conclusion

Rashna Mirza’s strong background in pharmaceutics, demonstrated research capabilities, and commitment to advancing drug delivery systems position her as a suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her strengths in innovative research, academic excellence, and effective communication support her candidacy, while opportunities for broader impact and leadership development could further enhance her profile.

Publication Top Notes

  • Brain targeting of cefepime loaded transfersomes based thermosensitive in situ gel via intranasal delivery: In vitro and in vivo studies
    • Authors: R. Mirza, A.U. Khan, K.U. Shah, F. Alasmari, Z. Hafeez
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 1
  • Statistical design and optimization of nano-transfersomes based chitosan gel for transdermal delivery of cefepime
    • Authors: R. Mirza, K.U. Shah, A.U. Khan, Z. Hafeez, S.U. Haq
    • Year: 2024