Pramod Bhasme | Microbiology | Best Review Paper Award

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Dr. Pramod Bhasme | Microbiology | Best Review Paper Award 

McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine | India

Dr. Pramod Bhasme is a distinguished researcher specializing in microbiology, molecular biology, and regenerative medicine, with expertise in bacterial pathogenesis, biofilm regulation, and wound healing. He earned his B.Sc., M.Sc., and M.Phil. in Microbiology from Karnatak University Dharwad, India, where he studied bacteriocins and mastitis-related pathogens, before completing a Ph.D. in Microbiology at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, under Prof. Ma Luyan. His doctoral research focused on quorum sensing, virulence regulation, and biofilm disruption in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. He later held a postdoctoral fellowship at Indiana University and currently serves as a Postdoctoral Associate at the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh. His work explores electroceutical technologies, bacteriophage therapy, senescence biology, and wound-healing strategies using transgenic models. Dr. Bhasme’s research interests include quorum sensing inhibition, cyclic-di-GMP signaling, protein engineering, and macrophage–keratinocyte interactions, with a strong focus on translational medicine. A recipient of the CAS-TWAS President’s Fellowship, he has published in leading journals such as Nature Communications, ACS Nano, Environmental Microbiology, JoVE, and mLife. With 11 publications, 231 citations across 211 documents, and an h-index of 8, he is recognized as an emerging leader in infection biology and regenerative medicine.

Profile: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Sharma, A., Anthony, A. J., Gnyawali, S., Bhasme, P., et al. The mitochondrial bioenergetics of functional wound closure is dependent on macrophage to keratinocyte exosomal crosstalk. ACS Nano. (Accepted).

Zhang, Y., Bhasme, P., et al. Dual functions: A coumarin-chalcone conjugate inhibits cyclic-di-GMP and quorum sensing signaling. mLife, 2(3), 284–293.

El Masry, M., Bhasme, P., et al. Swine model of biofilm infection and invisible wound. Journal of Visualized Experiments, (196).

Pal, D., Ghatak, S., Bhasme, P., et al. Identification of a physiologic vasculogenic fibroblast state to achieve tissue repair. Nature Communications, 14(1), 1129.

Xu, A., Wang, D., Bhasme, P., et al. Mutations in WspA lock the Wsp signal system into an active state. Environmental Microbiology.

 

Ohad Gal-Mor | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Ohad Gal-Mor | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award 

Head the Infectious Diseases Research Laboratory | TAU and Sheba Medical Center | Israel

Prof. Dr. Ohad Gal-Mor is a distinguished microbiologist and academic leader specializing in infectious diseases and bacterial pathogenesis. He is Head of the Infectious Diseases Research Laboratory at Sheba Medical Center and a Full Professor in the Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology at Tel Aviv University. His research has significantly advanced the understanding of Salmonella virulence, persistence, and host adaptation. He has also contributed to the study of antimicrobial resistance and bacterial evolution, bridging fundamental microbiology with global public health. In addition to his scientific achievements, Prof. Gal-Mor has held influential leadership positions, including Director of the Nehemia Rubin Program for Excellence in Biomedical Research and Chair of the Biomedical Academic Research Institute at Sheba Medical Center. Through his research, teaching, and mentorship, he has shaped the careers of many young scientists and continues to contribute to advancing knowledge in microbiology and infectious diseases worldwide.

Professional Profile

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Education

Prof. Dr. Ohad Gal-Mor pursued his academic training at Tel Aviv University, where he developed a strong foundation in molecular microbiology and life sciences. He obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biology at the Faculty of Life Sciences, focusing on core areas of biological and molecular systems. Following this, he was accepted into a prestigious direct-track doctoral program, earning his Ph.D. in Molecular Microbiology from the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Biotechnology. His doctoral research was dedicated to exploring microbial genetics and the mechanisms of host-pathogen interactions, providing the groundwork for his later contributions to bacterial pathogenesis. This rigorous training prepared him for postdoctoral research in Canada, where he worked with world-leading scientists and refined his expertise in host-pathogen studies. His educational background reflects both scientific rigor and an interdisciplinary approach, equipping him with the tools to investigate complex questions of microbial evolution, infection biology, and molecular regulation.

Experience

Prof. Dr. Ohad Gal-Mor has an extensive record of academic and research leadership in microbiology. After earning his Ph.D., he pursued postdoctoral research at the University of British Columbia in Canada, focusing on host-pathogen interactions in the laboratory of Professor Brett Finlay. He then advanced to a Research Associate role at the same institution before returning to Israel, where he became Director of the Enterobacteriaceae National Center at the Ministry of Health. Since then, he has established and led the Infectious Diseases Research Laboratory at Sheba Medical Center, driving innovation in infectious disease research. At Tel Aviv University, he progressed from Senior Lecturer to Associate Professor and is now a Full Professor. He has served as Secretary of the Israel Society for Microbiology and Section Editor for the journal Virulence. His professional journey highlights an exceptional blend of academic scholarship, research leadership, and international collaboration.

Research Interests

Prof. Dr. Ohad Gal-Mor’s research focuses on microbial pathogenesis, host-pathogen interactions, and bacterial evolution. His studies primarily investigate Salmonella enterica, with particular emphasis on genetic diversity, antimicrobial resistance, and adaptation to host environments. He explores how horizontally acquired elements, plasmids, and regulatory pathways contribute to virulence and persistence in both human and animal hosts. By integrating molecular biology, microbiology, and genomics, his group uncovers mechanisms that allow bacteria to survive within hosts, evade immune responses, and adapt to different ecological niches. He also investigates the emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant strains, addressing pressing issues in public health. His use of genomic sequencing, transcriptomics, and advanced infection models ensures that his research remains at the forefront of modern microbiology. Ultimately, his work aims to inform the development of novel antimicrobial strategies, vaccines, and prevention approaches, advancing both fundamental science and translational medicine.

Awards and Recognition

Prof. Dr. Ohad Gal-Mor has received recognition for his research excellence and leadership in the field of microbiology. His publication in PLoS Pathogens was highlighted as the Featured Image of the Month and selected as Paper of the Month by the German Society of Hygiene and Microbiology, showcasing his international impact. He has served in leadership roles such as Secretary of the Israel Society for Microbiology and Director of the Nehemia Rubin Program for Excellence in Biomedical Research at Sheba Medical Center, reflecting his dedication to advancing both science and education. His appointment as Chair of the Biomedical Academic Research Institute demonstrates the trust placed in his leadership within Israel’s largest medical center. These honors highlight his contributions not only as a researcher but also as a mentor and leader, recognized nationally and internationally for advancing the study of bacterial pathogenesis and infectious diseases.

Top Noted Publications

Prof. Dr. Ohad Gal-Mor has published extensively in leading international journals, making significant contributions to bacterial pathogenesis and antimicrobial resistance research. Selected publications include:

Title: The transcriptional regulation of the horizontally acquired iron uptake system, yersiniabactin and its contribution to oxidative stress tolerance and pathogenicity of globally emerging salmonella strains.
Journal: Gut Microbes
Year: 2024

Title: Persistent Salmonella infections in humans are associated with mutations in the BarA/SirA regulatory pathway.
Journal: Cell Host & Microbe
Year: 2024

Title: A new Salmonella enterica serovar that was isolated from a wild sparrow presents a distinct genetic, metabolic and virulence profile.
Journal: Microbes and Infection
Year: 2024

Title: The emergence of a multidrug resistant Salmonella Muenchen in Israel is associated with horizontal acquisition of the epidemic pESI plasmid.
Journal: Clinical Microbiology and Infection
Year: 2022

Title: Intracellular Salmonella Paratyphi A is motile and differs in the expression of flagella-chemotaxis, SPI-1 and carbon utilization pathways in comparison to intracellular S. Typhimurium.
Journal: PLoS Pathogens
Year: 2022

Title: The ancestral stringent response potentiator, DksA has been adapted throughout Salmonella evolution to orchestrate the expression of metabolic, motility, and virulence pathways.
Journal: Gut Microbes
Year: 2022

Title: Pathoadaptation of the passerine-associated Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium lineage to the avian host.
Journal: PLoS Pathogens
Year: 2021

Title: Emergence of new variants of antibiotic resistance genomic islands among multidrug-resistant Salmonella enterica in poultry.
Journal: Environmental Microbiology
Year: 2020

Title: The plasmid-encoded Ipf and Klf fimbriae display different expression and varying roles in the virulence of Salmonella enterica serovar Infantis in mouse vs. avian hosts.
Journal: PLoS Pathogens
Year: 2017

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Ohad Gal-Mor stands out as a highly suitable nominee for the Best Researcher Award. His work addresses critical challenges in global health, particularly the rise of antibiotic resistance and the evolution of bacterial pathogens, issues of major concern for both science and society. His scientific rigor, combined with international recognition and leadership, justifies his candidacy as an exemplary researcher whose contributions have advanced the frontiers of microbiology and infectious disease research.

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.