Ahmed Khedr | Genetics | Excellence in Research

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Ahmed Khedr | Genetics | Excellence in Research 

Assistant Professor Doctorate, at Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Egypt.

✨ Ahmed MB Khedr is an accomplished medical biochemist and molecular biologist, currently serving as a Lecturer (Assistant Professor) at the Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University. His research focuses on the role of microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs in systemic and autoimmune diseases, particularly multiple sclerosis and systemic sclerosis. With a strong academic foundation and extensive teaching experience, he has contributed significantly to the fields of molecular biology and clinical biochemistry. Dr. Khedr has also been an active reviewer for renowned journals and has several peer-reviewed publications to his credit. His dedication to medical research and education has earned him recognition in academia and beyond.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

Dr. Ahmed MB Khedr holds a Ph.D. in Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Cairo University (2023), where he investigated MiRNA-133 and lncRNA-H19 expressions in systemic sclerosis patients. He earned his MSc from Cairo University (2020), focusing on the relationship between MiRNA-22, vitamin D, and its receptor in multiple sclerosis patients. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBCH) from Benha University in 2014. His education has provided him with a robust background in medical biochemistry, equipping him with the expertise to advance research in molecular diagnostics and disease pathogenesis.

Experience 🌟

Dr. Khedr has over eight years of academic and clinical experience. He has been a Lecturer at Batterjee Medical College since 2023 and previously served as an Assistant Lecturer at Helwan University from 2020 to 2023. He also worked as a Demonstrator at Helwan University (2017-2020), a General Practitioner at the Ministry of Health in Egypt (2016-2017), and a House Officer at Benha University Hospitals (2015-2016). Throughout his career, he has taught medical biochemistry to students across various faculties, including medicine, physical therapy, nursing, and allied health sciences, while also coordinating laboratory courses and exams.

Research Interests 📝

Dr. Khedr’s research is centered on molecular mechanisms underlying systemic diseases. His primary focus is on microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs in autoimmune and neurological disorders such as systemic sclerosis and multiple sclerosis. His work explores the diagnostic and prognostic potential of these biomarkers in disease progression. Additionally, he investigates biochemical pathways linked to vitamin D metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammatory signaling. His contributions aim to enhance molecular diagnostics and therapeutic strategies for complex diseases.

Awards & Recognition 🏆

Dr. Khedr has received multiple awards and recognitions for his academic contributions. In February 2019, he was awarded an Appreciation Certificate for his participation in the Quality Assurance and Accreditation Unit and community services at Helwan University. In January 2019, he was recognized as a qualified member of the First Aid Workshop at the Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University. His dedication to academic excellence and community service has positioned him as a key figure in medical education and research.

Top Notes Publications 📚

  • Khedr et al. (2024)
    • Title: MiRNA-133 and lncRNA-H19 expressions and their relation to serum levels of PKM2 and TGF-β in patients with systemic sclerosis.
    • Journal: Non-Coding RNA Research
    • Key Findings:
      • Investigates the expression levels of MiRNA-133 and lncRNA-H19 in systemic sclerosis patients.
      • Analyzes their correlation with serum PKM2 (pyruvate kinase M2) and TGF-β (Transforming Growth Factor-beta).
      • Findings suggest potential biomarkers for systemic sclerosis.
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ncrna.2023.12.003
  • Mohamad et al. (2023)
    • Title: Expression of Long Noncoding RNA, HOTAIR, and MicroRNA-205 and Their Relation to Transforming Growth Factor β1 in Patients with Alopecia Areata.
    • Journal: Skin Appendage Disorders
    • Key Findings:
      • Examines the role of HOTAIR (lncRNA) and miRNA-205 in alopecia areata.
      • Explores their relationship with TGF-β1, which plays a role in immune response and hair follicle cycling.
      • Suggests that these ncRNAs may be involved in the pathogenesis of alopecia areata.
    • DOI: 10.1159/000527851
  • Khedr et al. (2022)
    • Title: MicroRNA-22 Level in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis and Its Relationship with Vitamin D and Vitamin D Receptor Levels.
    • Journal: Neuroimmunomodulation
    • Key Findings:
      • Investigates miRNA-22 levels in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.
      • Studies its correlation with Vitamin D and Vitamin D receptor (VDR) levels.
      • Findings indicate a potential regulatory role of miRNA-22 in MS progression and Vitamin D metabolism.
    • DOI: 10.1159/000519012

Conclusion

Dr. Ahmed MB Khedr is a strong candidate for Research for Excellence in Research due to his solid academic background, research expertise, peer-review contributions, and teaching experience. To further enhance his competitiveness, he should focus on increasing high-impact publications, securing grants, expanding collaborations, and gaining more international recognition. With continued research advancements, he has significant potential to achieve excellence in his field.

 

Matija Rijavec | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

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Assist Prof Dr . Matija Rijavec | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Development and Research Associate , University Clinic Golnik , Slovenia.

Matija Rijavec is a Development and Research Associate, serving as an Assistant Professor at the University Clinic for Respiratory and Allergic Diseases Golnik and the Biotechnical Faculty at the University of Ljubljana, Slovenia. His expertise lies in the fields of immunology and genetics, particularly related to complex diseases such as hereditary angioedema, asthma, and cystic fibrosis. Throughout his career, Matija has led several research projects, contributed to clinical guidelines, and authored numerous scientific publications.

Profile

ORCiD

Education

🎓 Matija completed his B.Sc. in Microbiology in 2004 and Ph.D. in Biomedicine in 2010 at the Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana. His academic achievements were recognized with the Krka prize for his Ph.D. In 2015, Matija was promoted to Assistant Professor of Immunology at the Biotechnical Faculty, reflecting his commitment to academia and research.

Professional Experience

🧪 Over his career, Matija has been involved in five completed research projects (leading one) and four ongoing projects (also leading one). His collaborative work includes contributions to the Hereditary Angioedema Variant Curation Expert Panel (HAE VCEP), part of the Clinical Genome Resource (ClinGen). In addition to research, he holds editorial roles in various esteemed journals, including Frontiers in Immunology and Human Gene.

Research Interests

🔍 Matija’s research focuses on the genetics and immunology of complex diseases such as allergy, hereditary angioedema, asthma, COPD, and cystic fibrosis. His work employs cutting-edge molecular biology techniques like DNA sequencing, PCR, and NGS, aiming to discover novel biomarkers for disease diagnosis and prediction.

Awards and Recognitions

🏅 Matija has earned several prestigious awards, including the Krka Prize for his Ph.D., three International Medis awards, and the ARIS award for Outstanding Scientific Achievements. He has also been recognized for his work at international conferences, receiving Best Poster awards at prominent events like the EAACI Workshop.

Publications

📚 Matija has published 78 scientific papers in high-impact journals, reflecting his significant contributions to immunology and genetics. Some of his notable publications include:

  • Rijavec, M., et al. (2023) – “Genetic Markers in Hereditary Angioedema” Journal of Clinical Immunology – Cited by 58 articles.
  • Rijavec, M., et al. (2022) – “Novel Biomarkers in Pulmonary Fibrosis” Respiratory Research – Cited by 45 articles.
  • Rijavec, M., et al. (2021) – “Role of mRNA Profiles in Asthma” Frontiers in Immunology – Cited by 34 articles.

Conclusion

Matija Rijavec is an exceptionally qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on his outstanding contributions to immunology, genetics, and molecular biology. His robust publication record, editorial appointments, leadership in research projects, and international recognition make him a strong contender. However, increasing his engagement in industry projects, patent filings, and book authorship could further solidify his candidacy.

Adalberto Santos | Genetic Humana | Best Researcher Award

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Dr . Adalberto Santos | Genetic Humana | Best Researcher Award 

Doctor , Fiocruz , Brazil

Dr. Adalberto Rezende Santos is a leading researcher in Cellular and Molecular Biology with a distinguished career at the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz). Since earning his Ph.D. in 1999, he has made significant contributions to public health, focusing on tuberculosis and immunology. Dr. Santos’s expertise in pharmacogenetics, molecular diagnostics, and the genetics of infectious diseases has established him as a prominent figure in the scientific community, with a recent emphasis on entrepreneurship.

Profile

ORCiD

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Research Experience: Dr. Adalberto Rezende Santos has a distinguished career in Cellular and Molecular Biology with over two decades of research experience, primarily focusing on infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and leprosy. His work on the genetics of these diseases and the pharmacogenetics of drug response is highly relevant to global health.
  2. Significant Research Contributions: Dr. Santos has made substantial contributions to understanding the genetic factors influencing drug response and disease susceptibility. His work on the NAT2 gene’s genetic variability and its implications for various diseases stands out. The publication of high-impact research in reputed journals and authoring key textbooks further underscores his impact.
  3. Innovative Approach: His patent on NAT2-based polymorphisms reflects his innovative approach to personalized medicine, bridging the gap between genomic research and practical healthcare solutions.
  4. Leadership and Collaboration: Dr. Santos has held prominent positions, such as the Head of the Tuberculosis Research Laboratory at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. His collaborative projects with international institutions, like Cornell University and Laval University, show his ability to lead and work in multidisciplinary teams.
  5. Academic Mentorship: His role in academic mentoring and scientific coordination has been instrumental in fostering new talents in Brazil, furthering the field of immunogenetics and pharmacogenetics.

Areas for Improvement 

  1. Citation Impact: While individual publications have citations, a more substantial cumulative citation index or h-index might strengthen his nomination. Highlighting these metrics would emphasize the broader influence of his research.
  2. Broader Dissemination of Research: Expanding the reach of his research through more international conferences or symposiums could enhance visibility and impact.
  3. Public Engagement: Increasing engagement with the public and policymakers could amplify the practical applications of his research in public health.

    Education

    Dr. Santos earned his Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation in 1999. His academic journey has been marked by a deep commitment to understanding the genetic factors influencing infectious diseases, shaping his innovative approaches to public health.

     Experience

    Dr. Santos has over two decades of experience as a Senior Researcher at the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation. He has led several research units dedicated to tuberculosis and immunology, and served as a scientific coordinator and external advisor, contributing to numerous scientific networks and collaborations globally.

    Research Interests

    Dr. Santos’s research interests encompass pharmacogenetics, molecular diagnostics, and the genetics of infectious diseases, with a particular focus on tuberculosis and leprosy. His work in these areas has paved the way for advancements in personalized medicine and public health strategies.

     Awards

    Dr. Santos has been recognized for his groundbreaking work in pharmacogenetics and molecular diagnostics. His contributions have earned him various awards and nominations, reflecting his impact on global health and science.

    Publications

    Dr. Santos has published extensively in high-impact journals such as PLoS ONE, BMC Genetics, and The Journal of Infectious Diseases. His notable publications include:

    1. Pharmacogenomics and Pharmacogenetics in Drug Therapy – InTech, 2021, ISBN: 9781837685271
    2. Tuberculosis – Current Issues in Diagnosis and Management – InTech, 2015, ISBN: 9789535110491
    3. International Textbook of Leprosy – American Leprosy Missions, 2020

      Conclusion

      Dr. Adalberto Rezende Santos is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his extensive contributions to infectious disease research, particularly in the genetics of tuberculosis and leprosy. His innovative work in pharmacogenetics and leadership in the scientific community underscore his qualifications. Addressing the areas of improvement could further strengthen his application, but his current achievements already make him a compelling candidate for the award.