Samra Qaraghuli | Natural Award | Life Sciences Innovation Award

Dr. Samra Qaraghuli | Natural Award | Life Sciences Innovation Award

Doctor at Mustansiriyah University, Iraq.

Samra Qaraghuli is a highly accomplished researcher and educator specializing in microbiology, natural products, and medicinal plants. With a Ph.D. in Microbiology from Flinders University, Australia, she has garnered prestigious awards, including first prize in the AMP Ignite Competition 2018. Samra’s research focuses on purifying antibiotics from Macro fungi, showcasing her innovative approach. She has extensive teaching experience, having taught courses in Medicinal Plant and Pharmacognosy at Al-Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad. Currently, she serves as a Lecturer at a College of Pharmacy, where she continues to inspire students with her expertise. Samra’s diverse skill set, including natural products extraction and molecular biology, coupled with her passion for education, distinguishes her as a valuable asset in scientific research and academia.

Professional Profiles:

Education:

Samra Qaraghuli’s academic journey reflects a deep commitment to the field of biology and biotechnology. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Biology/Biotechnology at Al-Mustansiriyah University in Baghdad, Iraq, in 2005, laying the foundation for her future studies. Continuing her education, she earned a Master of Science in Botany from the same university in 2008, further specializing in the biological sciences. Seeking to broaden her horizons, she pursued proficiency in the English language at the Intensive English Language Institution (IELI) in South Australia, enhancing her communication skills for academic and professional settings. Her academic pursuits culminated in a Ph.D. in Microbiology from Flinders University in Adelaide, Australia, in 2018. During her doctoral studies, she focused on purifying novel antibiotics from Macro fungi, a research endeavor that earned her recognition as the first prize winner of the AMP Ignite Competition 2018 and a nomination for the Future Scientist Award Winner 2018. Her educational background underscores her passion for scientific research and her dedication to advancing knowledge in the field of microbiology.

Research Experience:

Samra Qaraghuli has extensive research experience, particularly in the field of microbiology and natural products. Her research endeavors have focused on the purification and identification of novel antibiotics from Macro fungi, demonstrating a commitment to advancing knowledge in microbial biology and pharmaceutical sciences. During her doctoral studies at Flinders University, Australia, she conducted in-depth research on Australian Macro fungi, exploring their potential as a source for bioactive compounds. Her research not only contributed to the understanding of microbial diversity but also had practical implications for the development of new antibiotics. Additionally, Samra has been involved in various research projects and collaborations, presenting her work at conferences and contributing to scientific publications. Her research experience highlights her expertise in natural products extraction, purification, and identification, as well as her dedication to scientific inquiry and innovation.

Research Interest:

Samra Qaraghuli’s research interests primarily focus on microbiology, natural products, and medicinal plants. She is particularly passionate about exploring the potential of Macro fungi as a source for bioactive compounds, with a specific emphasis on purifying novel antibiotics. Her research aims to contribute to the understanding of microbial diversity and the development of new antibiotics. Additionally, Samra is interested in the broader applications of natural products in various fields, including medicine, agriculture, and environmental science. She also explores the pharmacological properties of medicinal plants, aiming to uncover their therapeutic potential. Samra’s interdisciplinary approach and dedication to scientific inquiry make her a valuable contributor to the field of microbiology and natural products research.

Award and Honors:

Samra Qaraghuli has been honored with several prestigious awards and accolades for her exceptional contributions to microbiology and natural products research. She was awarded the first prize in the AMP Ignite Competition 2018 for her groundbreaking research on purifying novel antibiotics from Macro fungi. This achievement reflects her innovative approach and scientific excellence. Additionally, Samra was nominated for the Future Scientist Award 2018, recognizing her as a promising future leader in the scientific community. In 2016, she received the Flinders University Student Association (FUSA) Development Grant, further highlighting her ability to secure funding for impactful research projects. Furthermore, Samra was granted The Australasian Mycological Society (AMS) Conference Travel Grant in 2016, enabling her to participate in conferences and share her research findings with the scientific community. These awards and honors underscore Samra’s dedication, passion, and significant contributions to advancing knowledge in microbiology and natural products.

Training:

Samra Qaraghuli has undertaken a variety of training programs to enhance her skills and knowledge in relevant areas. These include courses in Time Management, which helped her improve her ability to balance research, teaching, and other responsibilities effectively. She also completed training in Risk Management, which equipped her with skills to identify, assess, and mitigate risks in her academic and professional activities. Additionally, Samra participated in Conflict of Interest Management training, which provided her with strategies to navigate potential conflicts of interest. Her training in Conflict Management has enhanced her ability to handle conflicts effectively, promoting positive outcomes in challenging situations. Furthermore, she completed a Critical Thinking course, which has sharpened her analytical skills, enabling her to evaluate information and make informed decisions in her research and professional endeavors. These training programs have significantly contributed to Samra’s professional development, enhancing her capabilities in research, teaching, and other areas of her work.

Teaching Experience:

Samra Qaraghuli has extensive teaching experience in the fields of medicinal plants, pharmacognosy, and related subjects. Her teaching career began at Al-Mustansiriyah University in Baghdad, Iraq, where she served as a Lecturer. At Al-Mustansiriyah University, she taught courses in Medicinal Plant and Pharmacognosy to second and third-stage students, respectively, and was responsible for preparing educational materials, delivering coursework, and evaluating student performance. Currently, she is a Lecturer at a College of Pharmacy, where she teaches in seminar and lab meetings for researchers and post-doctoral fellows, demonstrating her ability to communicate complex scientific concepts effectively. Samra’s dedication to education is evident in her commitment to preparing educational materials, administering exams, and nurturing the next generation of scientists. Her teaching experience highlights her passion for sharing knowledge and expertise in the field.

Skills:

Samra Qaraghuli’s skill set is rich and diverse, encompassing a range of technical and communication abilities essential in scientific research and academia. With expertise in natural products extraction, purification, and identification, she has demonstrated proficiency in isolating bioactive compounds from Macro fungi. Her knowledge extends to mycology, where she is adept in mushroom cultivation and preservation techniques. In molecular biology, Samra is skilled in DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, and cDNA synthesis, crucial for genetic analysis. Her proficiency in medical microbiology includes quantitative genetics analysis, serology, and bacteriology procedures. Furthermore, she has a solid foundation in cell biology, with experience in tissue culture techniques, cell culture, and standard media preparation. Samra’s communication skills, honed through teaching and research roles, complement her technical expertise, making her a valuable contributor in scientific research and educational environments.