Wajiha Ahmed | Immunology and Microbiology | Women Researcher Award

Ms. Wajiha Ahmed | Immunology and Microbiology | Women Researcher Award

Post Doctoral Fellow of Suzhou institute of Nano tech and Nano bionics, China.

Wajiha Ahmed is a distinguished researcher from Pakistan with a diverse background in biomaterials and biology. She earned her PhD from Zhejiang University, China, where she focused on immune regulation and wound healing using innovative biomaterials like chiral polymers and ROS-responsive nanofibers. Her Master’s research involved plant-derived silver nanoparticles for chemical sensing, showcasing her early commitment to impactful research. Wajiha’s significant contributions are reflected in her nine peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals, including ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering and Journal of Biomedical Materials Research Part A. Currently serving as Assistant General Manager at Global Clinical Cura Pvt. Limited, she combines academic expertise with industry experience. Her research addresses critical health issues, particularly in wound healing for diabetic and infectious wounds, emphasizing her dedication to advancing medical science. Wajiha’s international experience and impactful research make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Profile
Education

Wajiha Ahmed’s educational journey reflects a strong foundation in biotechnology and biomedical sciences, coupled with advanced research experience in biomaterials. She earned her PhD from Zhejiang University, China, where she specialized in biomaterials with a focus on immune regulation and wound healing. Her doctoral research involved innovative projects such as developing ROS-responsive polymer nanofibers and exploring the impact of enantiomeric polylysine on inflammatory responses, showcasing her expertise in cutting-edge biomedical applications. Prior to her PhD, Wajiha completed her Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences and Engineering from the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad, Pakistan. Her Master’s thesis centered on the chemical sensing of carcinogens using plant-derived fluorescent flavonoids, demonstrating her ability to integrate biological and chemical sciences. Wajiha’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology from the Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan, where she gained a solid grounding in the life sciences.

Professional Experience

Wajiha Ahmed has a diverse professional background, blending academic and industry experience. She currently serves as the Assistant General Manager at Global Clinical Cura Pvt. Limited, a role she has held since January 2021, where she manages key clinical operations, contributing to the company’s strategic goals. Prior to this, Wajiha held academic positions, including as a Visiting Lecturer at Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University in Islamabad, Pakistan, from February 2016 to 2017, where she was involved in teaching and curriculum development. She also served as a Lecturer at Fazaia Intercollege Jinnah Camp in Islamabad from February 2016 to August 2017, and as a Teacher at Springfield Public School and College in Rawalpindi from March 2014 to 2015. These roles allowed her to hone her teaching skills and foster a deep commitment to education. Her professional experience reflects a solid foundation in both educational and managerial capacities.

Research Interest

Wajiha Ahmed’s research interests are deeply rooted in the interdisciplinary fields of biomaterials and biomedical engineering, with a particular focus on developing innovative solutions for wound healing and immune regulation. Her work spans the synthesis and characterization of advanced materials such as chiral polymers, ROS-responsive polymer nanofibers, and plant-derived silver nanoparticles. Wajiha is particularly interested in exploring the interactions between biomaterials and biological systems, aiming to enhance therapeutic outcomes in conditions such as diabetic wounds and chronic inflammations. Her PhD research on multifunctional drug-loaded nanofibers for smart wound healing and the immune modulation of bone marrow-derived macrophages highlights her dedication to addressing critical health challenges through material science. Additionally, her background in chemical sensing of carcinogens using plant-based materials underscores her commitment to environmental and health safety, making her research both impactful and socially relevant.

Research Skills

Wajiha Ahmed is an accomplished researcher with a robust set of skills in biomaterials and biomedical sciences. Her expertise lies in the synthesis and characterization of advanced nanomaterials, including chiral polymers and ROS-responsive polymer nanofibers, which she has applied to critical areas such as immune regulation and wound healing. Wajiha is proficient in various laboratory techniques, including nanoparticle synthesis, polymer grafting, and in vitro cellular assays. Her ability to design and conduct complex experiments is evident in her contributions to high-impact research projects. Additionally, she is skilled in data analysis and interpretation, employing advanced analytical tools to derive meaningful insights from experimental results. Wajiha’s research is also characterized by strong interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing her to integrate biological, chemical, and material science principles effectively. Her publications in reputable journals further reflect her dedication to advancing knowledge in the field of biomaterials.

 Awards and Recognition

Wajiha Ahmed has earned recognition for her exceptional contributions to the field of biomaterials and biology. Her innovative research on immune regulation, wound healing, and chemical sensing has been published in reputable journals, highlighting her impact on advancing scientific knowledge. Wajiha’s work has been acknowledged through her role as a first and co-author in multiple peer-reviewed publications, reflecting her dedication and expertise. Her international research experience, particularly during her PhD at Zhejiang University, has further solidified her reputation as a promising researcher in her field. Additionally, Wajiha’s involvement in interdisciplinary projects and her ability to address critical health challenges, such as diabetic wound healing, underscore her commitment to research that has tangible societal benefits. While she is still in the early stages of her career, her accomplishments have already positioned her as a rising star in biomaterials research, earning her respect and recognition among her peers.

Conclusion

Wajiha Ahmed is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given her significant contributions to biomaterials research, her impressive publication record, and her international research experience. To further strengthen her candidacy, she could focus on expanding her industrial collaborations and increasing her public engagement efforts. Overall, her multidisciplinary expertise and commitment to addressing societal challenges through research make her a suitable and competitive nominee for the award.

Publications Top Notes

  • Bi-layered Polyurethane Nanofiber Patches with Asymmetrical Surface Prevent Postoperative Adhesion and Enhance Cardiac Repair
    • Authors: Li, S., Ahmed, W., Wang, S., Zhu, Y., Gao, C.
    • Year: 2024
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.compositesb.2024.111668
  • Taking Chiral Polymers Toward Immune Regulation
    • Authors: Ahmed, W., Karabaliev, M., Gao, C.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 6
    • DOI: 10.1002/pol.20220163
  • Influence of Enantiomeric Polylysine Grafted on Gold Nanorods on the Uptake and Inflammatory Response of Bone Marrow-Derived Macrophages in Vitro
    • Authors: Ahmed, W., Zhang, H., Gao, C.
    • Year: 2022
    • DOI: 10.1002/jbm.a.37068
  • Reactive Oxygen Species-Responsive and Scavenging Polyurethane Nanoparticles for Treatment of Osteoarthritis In Vivo
    • Authors: Zhang, H., Xiong, H., Ahmed, W., Fan, C., Gao, C.
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 39
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2020.128147
  • Adaptive Antibacterial Biomaterial Surfaces and Their Applications
    • Authors: Ahmed, W., Zhai, Z., Gao, C.
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 134
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2019.100017
  • Design and Applications of Cell-Selective Surfaces and Interfaces
    • Authors: Zhang, H., Zheng, X., Ahmed, W., Chen, Y., Gao, C.
    • Year: 2018
    • Citations: 35
    • DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.8b00492

 

Svetlana Pleskova | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Svetlana Pleskova | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Head of the laboratory of Nizhny Novgorod State University named after N.I. Lobachevsky, Russia.

Professor Svetlana Pleskova, a prominent figure in nanotechnology and biotechnology, currently holds key academic positions at Alekseev Nizhny Novgorod Technical State University and Lobachevsky Nizhny Novgorod State University. She has a robust educational foundation, with a Doctorate from the Alekseev Technical State University and a PhD from the Department of Microbiology and Immunology of the Medical State Academy, both in Nizhni Novgorod. Her professional journey includes leading laboratories, conducting cutting-edge research in atomic force microscopy, and studying the interactions between nanoparticles and blood cells. Svetlana’s research interests encompass septicemia, antibiotic resistance diagnostics, and biocompatibility of advanced nanoparticles. With over 150 publications, numerous awards, and active participation in scientific conferences, she is a distinguished member of the Federation of the Societies of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Federation of Biotechnology. Her contributions to the field are significant and widely recognized.

Professional Profiles:

Education

Svetlana Pleskova holds a Doctorate in Biotechnology, Physical, and Analytical Chemistry (Physiology, Allergology, and Immunology) from Alekseev Technical State University, Nizhni Novgorod, completed between 2007 and 2009. She earned her PhD in Physiology, Allergology, and Immunology from the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Medical State Academy in Nizhni Novgorod from 1998 to 2001. Svetlana also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Molecular Biology and Immunology from Lobachevsky Nizhni Novgorod State University, graduating with honors (cum laude) in 1998. Her educational journey began at Medical School in Nizhni Novgorod, where she graduated with honors (cum laude) in 1992.

Professional Experience

Professor Svetlana Pleskova is a distinguished researcher in nanotechnology and biotechnology. Since 2016, she has been a Professor at Alekseev Nizhny Novgorod Technical State University and leads the scanning probe microscopy laboratory at Lobachevsky Nizhny Novgorod State University. Her research focuses on septicemia, septicopiemia, and antibiotic resistance diagnostics. Svetlana previously led the Nanobiotechnology and Atomic Force Microscopy group, focusing on nanoparticle biocompatibility. From 2009 to 2013, she was a Professor and Leading Research Fellow at Nizhny Novgorod Technical State University, researching nanoparticle-blood cell interactions and TiO2-nanofilms. She has also worked under Prof. Solioz in Switzerland and Prof. Lesniewska in France, creating nanopumps and studying cell interactions. Her earlier roles include Associate Professor, Assistant, and Researcher in microbiology, immunology, and biotechnology.

Research Interest

Professor Svetlana Pleskova’s research interests lie at the intersection of nanotechnology, biotechnology, and medical sciences. She focuses on studying septicemia and septicopiemia through advanced microscopy techniques such as atomic force microscopy, scanning ion-conducting microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Her work explores the adhesion contacts between endothelial cell receptors and blood cells modified by bacteria and nanoparticles. Additionally, she is dedicated to the development of nanotips for real-time antibiotic resistance diagnostics. Svetlana is also interested in the biocompatibility of nanoparticles, including quantum dots, nanoscale luminophores, and magnetic nanoparticles, as well as the bactericidal properties of TiO2-nanofilms. Her diverse research aims to advance diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in healthcare.

 Award and Honors

Professor Svetlana Pleskova has received numerous awards and honors throughout her distinguished career. She has been recognized with 14 awards and grants, including 6 where she served as the head. Her accolades reflect her significant contributions to the fields of nanotechnology and biotechnology. Svetlana is an esteemed member of the Federation of Societies of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and the Federation of Biotechnology. Additionally, she serves as a reviewer for the Russian Science Foundation and the Research Institute of FGBNU Rinkc, further highlighting her expertise and influence in her field.

 Research Skills

Professor Svetlana Pleskova possesses extensive research skills in nanotechnology, biotechnology, and molecular biology. She is proficient in atomic force microscopy, scanning ion-conducting microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, which she utilizes to study septicemia, septicopiemia, and adhesion contacts between endotheliocytes and blood cells. Svetlana has expertise in creating nanotips for real-time diagnostics of antibiotic resistance and developing nanopumps for heavy metals. Her work includes the study of biocompatibility of nanoparticles, quantum dots, nanoscale luminophores, and magnetic nanoparticles. Additionally, she has experience in using ELISA for diagnostics and in the physiological modification of the complement system.

Publications

  1. “Nanomotion of bacteria to determine metabolic profile”
    • Authors: Pleskova, S.N., Lazarenko, E.V., Bezrukov, N.A., Dokukin, M.E., Surodin, S.I.
    • Journal: Nanotechnology and Precision Engineering
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0
  2. “A Study of EA.hy926 Endothelial Cells Using Atomic Force and Scanning Ion Conductance Microscopy”
    • Authors: Pleskova, S.N., Bezrukov, N.A., Gorshkova, E.N., Bobyk, S.Z., Lazarenko, E.V.
    • Journal: Cell and Tissue Biology
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0
  3. “Exploring the Process of Neutrophil Transendothelial Migration Using Scanning Ion-Conductance Microscopy”
    • Authors: Pleskova, S.N., Bezrukov, N.A., Gorshkova, E.N., Bobyk, S.Z., Lazarenko, E.V.
    • Journal: Cells
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 1
  4. “ROS Production by a Single Neutrophil Cell and Neutrophil Population upon Bacterial Stimulation”
    • Authors: Pleskova, S.N., Erofeev, A.S., Vaneev, A.N., Bezrukov, N.A., Lazarenko, E.V.
    • Journal: Biomedicines
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 0
  5. “A New Method for Express Detection of Antibiotic Resistance”
    • Authors: Pleskova, S.N., Lazarenko, E.V., Sudakova, I.S., Kriukov, R.N., Bezrukov, N.A.
    • Journal: Applied Biochemistry and Microbiology
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 2
  6. “Study of EA.hy926 Endothelial Cells by Atomic Force and Scanning Ion-Conductance Microscopy”
    • Authors: Pleskovaa, S.N., Bezrukov, N.A., Gorshkova, E.N., Bobyk, S.Z., Lazarenkoa, E.V.
    • Journal: Tsitologiya
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 0
  7. “Differences in bacteria nanomotion profiles and neutrophil nanomotion during phagocytosis”
    • Authors: Pleskova, S.N., Lazarenko, E.V., Bezrukov, N.A., Boryakov, A.V., Kriukov, R.N.
    • Journal: Frontiers in Microbiology
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 4
  8. “Staphylococcus aureus Causes the Arrest of Neutrophils in the Bloodstream in a Septicemia Model”
    • Authors: Pleskova, S.N., Bobyk, S.Z., Kriukov, R.N., Gorshkova, E.N., Bezrukov, N.A.
    • Journal: Microorganisms
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 1
  9. “High-Resolution Scanning Ion-Conductance Microscopy for the Study of Blood Cell Morphology and Rigidity”
    • Authors: Bezrukov, N.A., Pleskova, S.N., Bobyk, S.Z., Boryakov, A.V.
    • Journal: Opera Medica et Physiologica
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 0
  10. “Nanovibrations of Atomic Force Microscope Cantilevers as a System for Real Time Detection of Antibiotic Resistance in Bacteria”
    • Authors: Pleskova, S.N., Fomichev, O.I., Kriukov, R.N., Sudakova, I.S.
    • Journal: Biophysics (Russian Federation)
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 2