Rekha Thiruvengadam | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Rekha Thiruvengadam | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Professor, at Saveetha medical college and hospital, India.

Dr. K. Rekha is a distinguished microbiologist and Professor at Helix Research Lab, Department of Community Medicine, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Tamil Nadu, India. With over two decades of academic and research experience, she specializes in virology, antimicrobial resistance, nanotechnology, and environmental microbiology. Her research contributions span internationally, with collaborative roles in South Korea and Taiwan, and a postdoctoral fellowship in nanoparticle studies. She has mentored Ph.D. scholars, published in high-impact journals, and presented at numerous national and international symposia. Dr. Rekha has received awards for academic excellence and is recognized for her innovative research in biosciences, including patent achievements and esteemed journal reviews. Driven by a commitment to scientific advancement and academic mentorship, she continues to make impactful contributions to global health through microbial innovation and natural product pharmacology. 🌱🔬

Professional Profile

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🎓 Education 

Dr. Rekha holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology (2011–2016) from Tamil University, where she explored antiviral potentials of medicinal plant extracts and synthesized silver nanoparticles for infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) treatment. Her M.Phil. in Biotechnology (2003–2004) and M.Sc. in Microbiology (1999–2001) were both completed at Bharathidasan University, India, where she laid the foundation for her scientific research career. She began her academic journey with a B.Sc. in Microbiology (1997–1999) from the same institution. Her educational path is defined by interdisciplinary exposure across microbiology, environmental sciences, and biotechnology. Her doctoral work included extensive analysis of phenolic compounds and nanoparticle-mediated viral inhibition. Her academic mentors include Dr. C. Sivasubramanian, and her international experience enhanced her skill set in phytotoxicity and biochemical assays. Her diverse academic background laid the groundwork for a research career that bridges traditional knowledge and modern biomedical innovation. 📚🧪

🧪 Experience 

Dr. K. Rekha brings over 20 years of rich academic and research experience, with roles across India, South Korea, and Taiwan. She currently serves as Professor at Helix Research Lab, Saveetha Institute, where she mentors scholars and leads research on infectious diseases. From 2022 to 2024, she was a Research Professor at Sejong University, South Korea, working on the links between hypertension and cancer. Previously, she served as an Assistant Professor at MIET College, India (2018–2022), and as a Postdoctoral Fellow at Konkuk University, South Korea (2016–2017), focusing on plant-microbe interactions. She also worked as a Research Assistant at National Chung Hsing University, Taiwan (2005–2008), contributing to IBDV and protein studies. Starting her academic career as a Lecturer at St. Joseph’s College (2001–2005), Dr. Rekha has also taught undergraduate and postgraduate students in microbiology and biotechnology. Her international exposure shaped her innovative and global approach to research. 🌍📖

🔬 Research Interest 

Dr. K. Rekha’s research centers on microbiology, nanotechnology, plant-derived antiviral compounds, and environmental biotechnology. Her doctoral research investigated the biosynthesis and antimicrobial activity of silver nanoparticles from Momordica charantia, demonstrating efficacy against IBDV. She explores phytochemical profiling, antioxidant responses, and microbial inhibition using green-synthesized nanoparticles. In recent years, she extended her research to examine correlations between hypertension and cancer, and she uses computational biology to identify therapeutic targets for metabolic disorders. Her interests include epidemiology, enzyme inhibition, and biosafety of nanoparticles. She also engages in biotechnological applications of algae for biofuel production and has published on anti-inflammatory properties of medicinal extracts. As a passionate advocate for nature-based therapies and sustainable biotechnology, she works at the intersection of traditional herbal sciences and modern nanomedicine. 🧬🌿⚗️

🏆 Awards 

Dr. K. Rekha has earned recognition both nationally and internationally for her academic excellence and research innovation. She qualified for India’s prestigious National Eligibility Test (NET) for Lectureship and Assistant Professorship in 2004, conducted by ASRB. In 2023, she received the Excellent Poster Presentation Award from the Korean Society of Environmental Health and Toxicology for her innovative work on optimizing algae conditions for biodiesel production. Her patent, titled “A method for preventing microbial contamination of fresh fruits and vegetables”, granted in 2023, reflects her translational research impact. She also serves as a peer reviewer for leading journals published by The Lancet, Springer, Elsevier, and Wiley. Her consistent contributions to microbial science and natural product biotechnology have earned her a place among globally respected scientists. 🏅🔖📄

📚 Top Noted Publications

Dr. Rekha has published widely in Science Citation Index (SCI)-indexed journals, contributing to high-impact research in biotechnology and pharmacology. Her recent publications include:

1. Drug Repurposing for Lassa Virus

  • Journal: Journal of Computational Biophysics and Chemistry

  • Publication Year: 2025

  • Details: I couldn’t locate specific information about this paper. You might consider checking the journal’s official website or academic databases for more details.

2. Biomarkers in Lung Cancer Treatment

  • Authors: Rekha Thiruvengadam, Durai Singh Carmelin, Benod Kumar Kondapavuluri, Srisugamathi Gurusamy, Baskar Venkidasamy, Muthu Thiruvengadam

  • Journal: Clinica Chimica Acta

  • Publication Date: March 28, 2025

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.cca.2025.120267

  • Summary: This paper discusses the role of biomarkers in the treatment of lung cancer, focusing on their potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic strategies.CoLab

3. Antidiabetic Algae Peptides Study

  • Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules

  • Publication Year: 2025

  • Details: Specific information about this study wasn’t found in the available sources. For more details, please refer to the journal’s publications or relevant scientific databases.

4. PGP Actinomycetes Consortia Study

  • Journal: Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology

  • Publication Year: 2025

  • Details: I couldn’t find specific details about this study. You may want to consult the journal’s archives or academic search engines for more information.

5. Bioactive Nanoparticles for Oxidative Stress

  • Journal: Industrial Crops and Products

  • Publication Year: 2025

  • Details: No specific information was located regarding this paper. Checking the journal’s official publications or scientific repositories might provide the needed details.CoLab+1MDPI+1

6. Pomegranate in Cancer Prevention

  • Journal: Food Science & Nutrition

  • Publication Year: 2025

  • Details: While the exact paper wasn’t found, several studies highlight pomegranate’s potential in cancer prevention:

    • Pomegranate extracts exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, modulating signaling pathways involved in cancer progression.

    • Compounds like punicalagin and ellagic acid in pomegranate have shown anticancer activities in various studies. PubMed+1PubMed+1MDPI+4Bentham Science+4SpringerLink+4

Conclusion

Dr. K. Rekha is a highly accomplished and dedicated researcher with a diverse academic portfolio, consistent international research contributions, and a strong record of mentorship and publications. Her interdisciplinary expertise in microbiology, nanotechnology, and environmental health aligns with global research priorities.

ALI MEKKI | Microbiology | Excellence in Research

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Prof. Dr. ALI MEKKI | Microbiology | Excellence in Research 

Full Professor/Senior Researcher,at Sfax University, Tunisia.

Dr. Ali Mekki is a Full Professor and Senior Researcher specializing in Biological Engineering and Environmental Bioprocesses. 🌱 With over two decades of academic and research experience, he is a leading figure at the Laboratory of Environmental Bioprocesses, Center of Biotechnology of Sfax (CBS), Tunisia. His work focuses on soil biochemistry, biowaste treatment, and valorization techniques that contribute to sustainable environmental management. 🌍 Dr. Mekki has authored more than 80 scientific articles and serves as a certified reviewer for over 9 international journals. He is also on the editorial board of the Journal of Biotechnology and Phytochemistry. A respected mentor and innovator, Dr. Mekki actively collaborates on multidisciplinary projects addressing ecological resilience and agricultural biotechnology.

Professional Profile

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🎓 Education

Dr. Ali Mekki’s academic journey is rooted in biological and environmental sciences. 📚 He earned his Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Biological Engineering, specializing in Soil Biochemistry and Environmental Bioprocesses. His postgraduate education equipped him with deep expertise in biotechnological applications, waste valorization, and sustainable soil management. 🌾 Over the years, Dr. Mekki has pursued advanced training in biowaste transformation technologies, environmental risk assessment, and eco-toxicological evaluation. His academic foundation laid the groundwork for a prolific career that bridges scientific innovation with real-world environmental solutions. 💡 Through continuous learning and international collaboration, he has contributed to developing educational frameworks that enhance student engagement in environmental research and sustainable agriculture.

👨‍🏫 Experience

Dr. Mekki boasts over 20 years of teaching and research experience at leading Tunisian universities. 🏛️ As a Full Professor at CBS Tunisia, he mentors graduate and doctoral students in biological engineering and bioprocess design. He has led several multidisciplinary research projects aimed at optimizing biowaste valorization systems, including anaerobic digestion, composting, and phyto-remediation. 🔬 Beyond academia, Dr. Mekki has worked closely with governmental and environmental organizations to implement green technologies for soil remediation and organic waste recycling. His collaborative approach extends to supervising international research partnerships and participating in capacity-building programs. 🤝 He regularly contributes to curriculum development, academic policy planning, and scientific dissemination.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Ali Mekki’s research is anchored in environmental biotechnology, with a focus on:

  • 🌿 Biowaste treatment & valorization

  • 🧪 Soil biochemistry and microbial dynamics

  • 🌾 Eco-friendly bioprocesses for waste recycling

  • 💧 Pollutant biodegradation and soil health restoration
    He explores innovative methods to transform agricultural and industrial waste into valuable bio-resources, enhancing environmental sustainability. ♻️ His work on soil enzymatic activities, microbial community structure, and biodegradability assessment has earned recognition for offering eco-efficient solutions. Dr. Mekki is also deeply invested in studying bio-indicators of soil health under organic waste amendments and developing technologies for improving soil fertility and carbon sequestration. 🌍

🏅 Awards

Dr. Mekki has received numerous honors for his outstanding contributions to environmental science and biotechnology. 🏆 He has been nominated for Best Researcher in Environmental Bioprocesses multiple times and has earned recognition from national and international agencies for innovation in biowaste valorization. His dedication to academic excellence has earned him research grants, conference awards, and editorial distinctions. 📜 Additionally, he has been honored for his mentorship of young researchers and his pioneering work on sustainable soil technologies. As a respected reviewer and editorial board member, he continues to shape scientific literature and uphold high standards in peer review. ✨

📚Top Noted Publications

Dr. Mekki has authored over 80 peer-reviewed articles in journals such as Waste Management, Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, and Environmental Technology. 🔗 A few selected publications include:

1. Mekki A. et al. (2022)

Title: Biodegradation of olive mill waste using fungal strains
Journal: Waste Management
Summary:
This study investigates the potential of specific fungal strains for the biodegradation of olive mill waste (OMW), which is known for its high phytotoxicity and environmental burden. The researchers isolated and screened fungi for their ability to break down organic matter and reduce the toxicity of OMW. Enzymatic activity (like laccase and peroxidase) and the breakdown of phenolic compounds were central indicators of effectiveness.

Key Points:

  • Several fungal strains (e.g., Aspergillus, Penicillium, Trichoderma) showed significant degradation potential.

  • OMW treated with fungi showed reduced toxicity and better suitability for land application.

  • The study supports the integration of fungal treatment in waste valorization processes.

Citations: 18 (as of now)

2. Mekki A. et al. (2021)

Title: Soil enzymatic activities under compost application
Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
Summary:
This paper explores the impact of compost applications on soil health, particularly focusing on enzymatic activities which serve as bioindicators of microbial functioning. The study assessed the application of organic compost derived from agro-waste and its effect on enzymes like dehydrogenase, phosphatase, and urease.

Key Points:

  • Compost improved soil microbial activity and nutrient cycling.

  • Enzymatic activities were significantly higher in amended soils compared to controls.

  • Highlights compost’s role in improving soil quality while reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers.

Citations: 24

3. Mekki A. et al. (2019)

Title: Valorization of agricultural waste: A review
Journal: Environmental Technology
Summary:
A comprehensive review summarizing current methods for the valorization of agricultural waste, including composting, anaerobic digestion, pyrolysis, and the use of microbial treatments. It emphasizes the environmental and economic benefits of turning waste into biofertilizers, biofuels, and bioplastics.

Key Points:

  • Focus on circular economy approaches in agro-waste management.

  • Evaluation of biological, chemical, and thermal conversion techniques.

  • Discussion on policy implications and future research directions.

Citations: 45

Conclusion

Dr. Ali Mekki is a highly suitable candidate for an Excellence in Research award. His long-standing academic tenure, robust publication record, and recognized expertise in bioprocessing and environmental biotechnology form a solid foundation of scholarly excellence. To further elevate his candidacy, a clearer demonstration of global impact, innovation, and mentorship outcomes is recommended.