Chularat Hlaoperm | Veterinary Science and Veterinary Medicine | Excellence in Research Award

Ms. Chularat Hlaoperm | Veterinary Science and Veterinary Medicine | Excellence in Research Award

Kasetsart University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine | Thailand

Ms. Chularat Hlaoperm is a highly motivated researcher in the field of animal health and biomedical sciences, currently engaged in advanced research on molecular diagnostics, biosensors, and novel therapeutic strategies. Her academic journey reflects a strong foundation in biology, veterinary medicine, and biomedical sciences, which has shaped her into a versatile scientist capable of integrating molecular biology with applied veterinary research. She has contributed to the development of innovative biosensor technologies, phage display techniques, and molecularly imprinted polymers, highlighting her ability to merge traditional veterinary knowledge with cutting-edge biotechnology. Ms. Hlaoperm has published extensively in high-impact journals, including Q1-ranked journals and Scopus-indexed publications, showcasing her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and contributing to the global research community. Beyond her technical expertise, she has been actively engaged in collaborative projects with both national and international research institutions, emphasizing her capacity for teamwork and global scientific engagement. With a background enriched by scholarships and recognition for research excellence, she stands as a promising scientist with potential to contribute significantly to the future of biomedical and veterinary sciences. Her dedication, coupled with a strong academic foundation, makes her a valuable asset in both research and academic leadership.

Professional Profile

Education

Ms. Chularat Hlaoperm has pursued her academic training in a structured and progressive manner, beginning with a strong undergraduate foundation in biological sciences. This early academic experience instilled in her the principles of scientific inquiry and prepared her for advanced research in animal health and biomedical sciences. Building on this, she pursued graduate studies in veterinary medicine, specializing in animal health and biomedical sciences, where she developed an in-depth understanding of molecular biology, immunology, and clinical applications. Her academic progression into doctoral research has enabled her to focus on advanced molecular diagnostics, biosensor technologies, and therapeutic interventions aimed at addressing challenges in animal and human health. The combination of her undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral education reflects a seamless progression from fundamental sciences to applied biomedical research. Through rigorous coursework, laboratory training, and independent research, she has cultivated the analytical skills and technical knowledge necessary for innovative scientific contributions. Her education has been further enriched by scholarships from leading institutions, which reflect recognition of her academic excellence and potential. Altogether, her academic journey highlights a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise that continues to underpin her ongoing research activities and professional growth in the biomedical sciences.

Professional Experience

Ms. Chularat Hlaoperm has acquired valuable professional experience through her roles as a research assistant and doctoral researcher, where she has engaged in projects spanning veterinary diagnostics, biosensor development, and applied molecular biology. Her early research involvement centered on the development of rapid diagnostic kits, including a urease-based biosensor for the detection of Helicobacter species in canine gastric mucosa, a project that demonstrated her ability to translate molecular biology into practical diagnostic applications. She further contributed to research on nanoparticle-based biosensors and aptamer technology, highlighting her multidisciplinary expertise. In her current role as a doctoral researcher, she has expanded her focus to include advanced biosensor platforms such as molecularly imprinted polymers and phage display techniques, positioning her work at the intersection of biotechnology and veterinary medicine. Her professional trajectory illustrates a steady progression from supporting roles in laboratory research to independent contributions in high-impact projects. This experience has also provided opportunities for collaboration with international researchers and institutions, strengthening her ability to work in diverse and cross-disciplinary environments. Her cumulative professional engagements demonstrate not only technical expertise but also the adaptability, leadership, and innovation necessary for advancing research in veterinary and biomedical sciences.

Research Interests

Ms. Chularat Hlaoperm’s research interests lie at the convergence of animal health, molecular diagnostics, and biomedical sciences. She is particularly passionate about developing innovative tools for rapid pathogen detection and therapeutic interventions in veterinary and zoonotic diseases. Her work with biosensors, molecularly imprinted polymers, and phage display techniques reflects her commitment to creating cost-effective, sensitive, and reliable diagnostic platforms that can be applied in both clinical and field settings. She is also deeply interested in molecular cloning, protein purification, and the application of immunological assays such as ELISA and Western blotting for disease monitoring and therapeutic evaluation. Her interests further extend to studying antiviral and immunomodulatory agents, with the aim of identifying novel compounds that can benefit both veterinary and human medicine. By integrating molecular biology with applied biomedical sciences, her research contributes to the broader goal of improving global animal health and addressing public health concerns associated with zoonotic pathogens. She is also interested in fostering international collaborations and interdisciplinary approaches, believing that joint efforts across veterinary, biomedical, and nanotechnology fields will yield innovative solutions for pressing global health challenges. Her research interests reflect both academic curiosity and a strong sense of societal impact.

Research Skills

Ms. Chularat Hlaoperm possesses a diverse and advanced skill set that equips her to excel in molecular biology, diagnostics, and biomedical research. She is proficient in bacterial culture, molecular cloning, real-time PCR, and protein purification, which form the foundation of her experimental expertise. Her skills extend to advanced techniques such as phage display, molecularly imprinted polymers, and nanoparticle-based biosensor development, showcasing her ability to integrate biotechnology with practical applications. Additionally, she is experienced in immunological assays including ELISA, Western blotting, and cell culture, which are essential for disease detection and therapeutic evaluation. Her technical competence is complemented by analytical skills in data interpretation, scientific writing, and publication in peer-reviewed journals. She has successfully applied her research skills in collaborative projects, resulting in high-quality publications in leading journals such as Veterinary World, Sensors, and Veterinary Sciences. Furthermore, her training has emphasized adaptability to new technologies and methodologies, enabling her to remain at the forefront of scientific advancements. Her comprehensive skill set reflects not only laboratory expertise but also her ability to innovate, collaborate, and contribute to meaningful scientific outcomes. These skills position her as a promising researcher capable of addressing complex challenges in biomedical and veterinary sciences.

Awards and Honors

Ms. Chularat Hlaoperm has been recognized for her academic excellence and research contributions through awards, scholarships, and institutional acknowledgments. Among her achievements is the Researcher and Research Assistant Award from Kasetsart University’s Reinventing University Program, which highlights her innovative contributions to molecular diagnostics and biosensor development. She has also been the recipient of multiple scholarships, including the High-Quality Research Graduate Development Cooperation Project supported by the National Science and Technology Development Agency, as well as competitive research grants from Thailand Science Research and Innovation. These honors reflect both her research potential and her ability to contribute to nationally significant scientific initiatives. In addition, her scholarly publications in Q1 and top-ranked journals, such as Veterinary World, Sensors, and Veterinary Sciences, have earned recognition within the academic community, further demonstrating her scientific credibility. These accolades emphasize her dedication, perseverance, and capacity to excel in highly competitive research environments. Beyond individual recognition, her awards represent institutional trust in her ability to lead impactful research projects. Altogether, the honors and scholarships awarded to Ms. Hlaoperm signify not only her past accomplishments but also her promising potential as a future leader in veterinary and biomedical sciences research.

Publication Top Note

  • A Molecularly Imprinted Polymer Nanobodies (nanoMIPs)-Based Electrochemical Sensor for the Detection of Staphylococcus epidermidis — 2025 — 1 citation

Conclusion

Ms. Chularat Hlaoperm represents a dynamic and accomplished researcher whose contributions to animal health and biomedical sciences have significant academic and societal impact. Through her research, she has developed innovative diagnostic tools, contributed to biosensor technology, and published influential work in highly ranked journals, demonstrating both technical expertise and scientific creativity. Her academic training, combined with professional experience and international collaborations, positions her as a rising scholar capable of shaping the future of veterinary diagnostics and therapeutic strategies. Recognition through awards and scholarships underscores her credibility as a researcher who is both dedicated and innovative. Looking ahead, Ms. Hlaoperm has strong potential to expand her research into broader international collaborations, interdisciplinary studies, and leadership roles that can inspire the next generation of scientists. Her ability to integrate molecular biology, biotechnology, and applied veterinary research exemplifies her as a valuable asset in addressing global challenges in animal and public health. With her proven track record of academic achievement, technical proficiency, and collaborative engagement, Ms. Hlaoperm is well-deserving of recognition as an outstanding researcher who will continue to contribute meaningfully to science, society, and the advancement of global health.

Joseph Ndegwa | Veterinary Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Joseph Ndegwa | Veterinary Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Chief veterinary officer from University of Nairobi, Kenya

Dr. Ndegwa Joseph Macharia is an accomplished veterinary professional specializing in fish science and aquatic animal health. With a diverse career spanning clinical veterinary services, public health, animal disease management, and aquaculture research, Dr. Macharia has built a commendable profile in Kenya’s agricultural and scientific landscape. Currently serving as the Chief Veterinary Officer at the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development in Kenya, he plays a critical role in animal disease surveillance, prevention, and control across the country. His academic journey is enriched with a Master’s degree in Fish Science from the University of Nairobi, complemented by international certifications in aquatic animal health and aquaculture from Egypt and Norway. Dr. Macharia’s work is well-supported by peer-reviewed publications focusing on fish pathogens and parasitology, demonstrating his commitment to addressing pressing challenges in the aquaculture industry. He has presented his research at significant international platforms, showcasing Kenya’s contribution to aquatic veterinary sciences. Beyond his scientific work, Dr. Macharia is deeply committed to community engagement, serving as a motivational speaker and youth leader for over a decade. His multifaceted career reflects a perfect balance of practical veterinary skills, scientific inquiry, leadership, and community service.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Ndegwa Joseph Macharia has pursued a comprehensive academic pathway that underpins his expertise in veterinary and aquatic animal sciences. His most recent academic pursuit is a Master of Science in Fish Science from the University of Nairobi, which he began in 2022 and is expected to complete in 2024. This program has enhanced his specialization in fish health and aquaculture management. In 2022, Dr. Macharia further broadened his knowledge through a diploma course in “Fish for Development” at the Norwegian Veterinary Institute in Norway, which provided him with advanced insights into sustainable fish production and global aquaculture standards. He earned his Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Nairobi between 2012 and 2017, establishing his foundational knowledge in veterinary clinical practice and animal health management. Dr. Macharia also holds a certificate in computer applications from Partners Computer Training College in 2011, which has contributed to his data analysis and reporting capabilities. His academic journey is well-rounded, starting from an impressive secondary education where he graduated with top grades and consistently demonstrated academic excellence. His educational background has significantly contributed to his ability to integrate veterinary knowledge with aquaculture research, positioning him as a leader in his field.

Professional Experience

Dr. Ndegwa Joseph Macharia’s professional career is rich with hands-on experience in veterinary practice, animal disease control, and aquaculture health management. Since August 2020, he has served as the Chief Veterinary Officer at the State Department for Livestock Development under the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development in Kenya. In this capacity, he oversees animal disease surveillance, prevention, and eradication efforts at the national level. Prior to this role, he worked as an intern at the Kenya Veterinary Vaccines Production Institute (KEVEVAPI), gaining experience in vaccine production and distribution. From July 2019 to January 2020, he worked as a Veterinary Officer at Mau Flora Company Limited, managing animal health for a diverse livestock population including cattle, poultry, goats, and exotic animals. Dr. Macharia’s field experience includes a one-year internship at the Nakuru County Veterinary Department, where he provided public health services, disease surveillance, extension services, and training to farmers. His career also includes laboratory diagnostics at Kenya Central Veterinary Labs and hands-on animal husbandry at Kanyariri Vet Farm. Throughout his career, Dr. Macharia has demonstrated a strong capacity for disease management, vaccination programs, laboratory diagnostics, animal breeding, and public health outreach.

Research Interest

Dr. Ndegwa Joseph Macharia’s research interests are deeply rooted in aquatic animal health, aquaculture sustainability, and emerging fish diseases. His primary focus is on the diagnosis, prevention, and management of diseases affecting farmed fish, with a particular emphasis on bacterial and parasitic pathogens that threaten the productivity and sustainability of aquaculture systems. Dr. Macharia is interested in the molecular and conventional characterization of fish pathogens, as demonstrated in his published work on Aeromonas isolates from aquaculture farms in Kenya. He is equally passionate about epidemiological studies that address disease outbreaks in aquatic environments and seeks to understand the interaction between aquaculture practices, water quality, and fish health. Dr. Macharia is committed to contributing solutions that enhance fish farming productivity while maintaining animal welfare and food safety standards. His interest also extends to capacity building and public awareness regarding fish disease management in Kenya and the broader African aquaculture sector. Through his research, Dr. Macharia aims to provide practical interventions that can mitigate fish mortality and improve aquaculture health management strategies. His ongoing exploration of aquatic epidemiology and fish histopathology reflects his dedication to advancing veterinary knowledge in aquatic sciences.

Research Skills

Dr. Ndegwa Joseph Macharia possesses a robust set of research skills that bridge both laboratory and field applications in veterinary and aquatic animal health. He is proficient in disease surveillance, clinical diagnosis, molecular and conventional pathogen characterization, and laboratory diagnostics such as bacteriology, virology, parasitology, and hematology. His laboratory experience includes postmortem analysis, pathogen isolation, and chemical analysis, including aflatoxin detection. Dr. Macharia’s skills in molecular techniques have allowed him to co-author studies that use advanced pathogen identification methods, reinforcing his scientific credibility. In field research, he is experienced in conducting epidemiological investigations, managing vaccination programs, and performing outbreak investigations. His expertise extends to fish histopathology, gained from specialized training in Egypt, which supports his work in aquatic animal disease diagnosis. Dr. Macharia’s ability to translate laboratory findings into practical, community-level interventions showcases his integrated approach to research. His competencies also include data collection, scientific writing, public presentation of research findings, and cross-sector collaboration with farmers, scientists, and policymakers. Additionally, his capacity for organizing workshops and training sessions positions him as a skilled communicator and educator within the veterinary and aquaculture research communities.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his academic and professional journey, Dr. Ndegwa Joseph Macharia has earned recognition for his academic excellence and technical proficiency. In 2011, he was honored as the Best Student in Computer Applications by the Computer Society of Kenya, highlighting his early commitment to developing essential technical skills. During his secondary education, he was recognized as the Best Student among District Schools in Nyandarua Central District based on his outstanding performance in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (K.C.S.E.) in 2010. These early accolades set the foundation for his disciplined and achievement-driven approach to his career. In addition to his academic and professional milestones, Dr. Macharia has been actively involved in community leadership and youth mentorship, serving as a Youth Leader at United to Christ End Time Ministries since 2015. His leadership and outreach work further demonstrate his dedication to contributing positively to society. His growing list of international conference presentations and peer-reviewed publications reflects his increasing prominence in veterinary and aquaculture research. As he continues to engage with global scientific communities, Dr. Macharia’s recognition in both academic and professional spheres is expected to further expand.

Conclusion

Dr. Ndegwa Joseph Macharia represents a well-rounded and impactful professional whose contributions span veterinary clinical practice, aquatic animal health research, public service, and community leadership. His career trajectory is marked by continuous academic advancement, diverse field experiences, and a commitment to addressing animal health challenges, particularly in the aquaculture sector. Dr. Macharia’s growing body of research, coupled with his practical veterinary skills, positions him as a valuable asset in the scientific community and a strong advocate for sustainable aquaculture practices in Kenya and beyond. His ability to balance rigorous scientific inquiry with community engagement and mentorship highlights his multifaceted approach to professional growth and social responsibility. While there is still room for further international collaboration and increased research output in higher-impact journals, his foundation is solid, and his potential for future contributions is significant. Dr. Macharia’s dedication to animal welfare, public health, and capacity building positions him as a deserving candidate for prestigious recognitions such as the Best Researcher Award. His career continues to demonstrate the impact of combining scientific expertise with a commitment to societal development.

Publications Top Notes

1. Polymorphisms in Pfmdr1, Pfcrt, and Pfnhe1 Genes Are Associated with Reduced In Vitro Activities of Quinine in Plasmodium falciparum Isolates from Western Kenya

  • Authors: J. Cheruiyot, L.A. Ingasia, A.A. Omondi, D.W. Juma, B.H. Opot, J.M. Ndegwa, et al.

  • Journal: Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy 58 (7), 3737-3743

  • Year: 2014

  • Citations: 45

2. The Growth Performance of Indigenous Kenyan Chickens Fed Diets Containing Different Levels of Protein During Rearing

  • Authors: J.M. Ndegwa, R. Mead, P. Norrish, C.W. Kimani, A.M. Wachira

  • Journal: Tropical Animal Health and Production 33, 441-448

  • Year: 2001

  • Citations: 42

3. Rural Poultry Production in Kenya: Research and Development Strategies

  • Authors: J.M. Ndegwa, C.W. Kimani

  • Source: Focus on Agriculture for Sustainable Development in a Changing Economic Environment

  • Year: 1996

  • Citations: 26

4. Characteristics of Rural Poultry Production in Different Agroecological Zones in Kenya

  • Authors: J.M. Ndegwa, C.W. Kimani, D.A. Siamba, E.A. Mukisira, R. Jong

  • Year: 1999

  • Citations: 18

5. A Research Process and Methodology Focusing on Indigenous Kenyan Chickens

  • Authors: J.M. Ndegwa, P. Norrish, R. Mead, C.W. Kimani, A.M. Wachira

  • Source: Proceedings of the International Network for Family Poultry Development

  • Year: 2000

  • Citations: 17

6. Investigating Eggs Hatchability in Indigenous Chicken System with Smallholder Farms in Kenya in a Participatory Research Using Analysis of Variation

  • Authors: J.M. Ndegwa, R. Mead, P. Norrish, D.D. Shephered, C.W. Kimani, A.M. Wachira, et al.

  • Journal: Journal of Applied Biosciences 80, 7000-7013

  • Year: 2014

  • Citations: 13

7. Improvement of Indigenous Poultry Production in Sub-Saharan Africa

  • Authors: J.M. Ndegwa, T. Tchombe, L.W. Kabuage, G. Mukkibi-Muka, I.S. Kosgey

  • Institution: University of Nairobi

  • Year: 1998

  • Citations: 13

8. On-Farm Evaluation of Improved Management Practices on Production Performance of Indigenous Chickens

  • Authors: J.M. Ndegwa, C.W. Kimani, D.N. Siamba, C.N. Ngugi

  • Institution: University of Nairobi

  • Year: 1996

  • Citations: 13

9. Growth Characteristics of Six Reciprocal Crosses of Kenyan Indigenous Chicken

  • Authors: J.M. Ndegwa, R. Mead, P. Norrish, D.D. Shephered, C.W. Kimani, A.M. Wachira

  • Journal: Journal of Agricultural Science 4 (6), 160

  • Year: 2012

  • Citations: 12

10. Rural Poultry Production: Efforts to Improve Production and Contribution to Household Economy

  • Authors: C.W. Kimani, J.M. Ndegwa, S. Ole, E.A. Mukisira, D.N. Siamba, R. de Jong, et al.

  • Institution: Kenya Agricultural Research Institute (KARI)

  • Year: 1999

  • Citations: 11