Nobendu Mukerjee | Biochemistry | Young Scientist Award

Published on by Academic Excellence

Mr. Nobendu Mukerjee | Biochemistry | Young Scientist Award

University of Houston | India

Nobendu Mukerjee is an emerging researcher in cancer biology and microbiology, dedicated to bridging bioinformatics and wet-lab research to uncover molecular mechanisms driving cancer progression and to develop novel therapeutic strategies. He holds an M.Sc. in Microbiology from West Bengal State University with an outstanding CGPA of 9.78, following a B.Sc. (Hons.) in Microbiology from Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College. His research primarily focuses on exosome-mediated PROTAC delivery systems and phytochemical-based cancer therapies. During his academic journey, Nobendu has gained significant research experience at reputed institutions such as the A*STAR Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (Singapore), Tripura University, St. Xavier’s College Kolkata, Sambalpur University, and Banaras Hindu University. His work explores therapeutic nanodelivery, protein–ligand interactions, and computational drug design aimed at targeted cancer treatments. As a first author in multiple high-impact publications across journals like Chemical Engineering Journal, Drug Discovery Today, ACS Applied Nano Materials, and Journal of Medical Virology, he has made valuable contributions to the fields of cancer therapeutics, exosome biology, and molecular medicine. His excellence has been recognized through prestigious fellowships, including the Singapore International Pre-Graduate Award (SIPGA) and the SPARK Fellowship from IIT Roorkee & BHU. Currently serving as a Lecturer at Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, Chennai, Nobendu remains committed to advancing precision medicine through integrative bioengineering approaches. His vision is to translate laboratory innovations into clinically transformative cancer therapies that can reshape the future of oncology.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

  • Mukerjee, N., Maitra, S., Kaur, M., Rekha, M. M., Soothwal, P., Arora, I., Thorat, N. D., Sharma, P. K., & Kaushik, A. (2025). Click chemistry-based modified exosomes: Towards enhancing precision in cancer theranostics. Chemical Engineering Journal, 475, 160915.

  • Mohite, P., Puri, A., Munde, S., Yadav, V., Mukerjee, N., Patil, R., Mahindrakar, N., Siva Prasad, G. V., Verma, R., & Sinha, A. (2025). Exosome-mediated intercellular communication and PROTACs delivery: A dual approach for precision therapy in colon cancer. Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology, 87, 106596.

  • Mukerjee, N., Maitra, S., Ghosh, A., Alexiou, A., & Thorat, N. D. (2024). Exosome-mediated PROTAC delivery for treatment of RNA viral infections and zoonosis. Drug Discovery Today, 29(5), 104044.

  • Dhar, R., Mukerjee, N., Mukherjee, D., Devi, A., Jha, S. K., & Gorai, S. (2024). Plant-derived exosomes: A new dimension in cancer therapy. Phytotherapy Research, 38(7), 7828.

  • Mukerjee, N., Maitra, S., & Sharma, R. (2024). Proteolysis-targeting chimeras in antiviral therapy: Leveraging influenza virus and exosome-mediated delivery for targeted protein degradation and therapeutic advancements. Drug Development Research, 85(4), 22145.

Khanyisani Ziqubu | Biochemistry | Young Scientist Award

Published on by Academic Excellence

Dr. Khanyisani Ziqubu | Biochemistry | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Khanyisani Ziqubu | Biochemistry | University of the Western Cape | South Africa

Dr. Khanyisani Ziqubu is a dedicated South African biochemist whose research focuses on metabolic health, oxidative stress, and inflammation. With a strong foundation in both in vitro and in vivo experimental models, he has significantly contributed to understanding obesity, type 2 diabetes, and related metabolic disorders. He holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from North-West University, where his work explored the effects of flavonoids on brown adipocyte secretome. Dr. Ziqubu’s research impact is reflected in his h-index of 22 and over 1,500 citations. His expertise spans molecular assays, mitochondrial bioenergetics, flow cytometry, next-generation chromatography, and advanced cell culture techniques. He has published extensively in high-impact journals and presented at notable international conferences. Beyond academia, Dr. Ziqubu actively engages in community science outreach programs, promoting health awareness and inspiring future scientists. His scientific rigor, teaching experience, and mentorship roles underscore his commitment to advancing biochemical research and improving public health outcomes.

Author Profiles

Orcid | Google Scholar

Education 

Dr. Khanyisani Ziqubu’s academic journey began at the University of Zululand, where he earned a BSc in Biochemistry and Microbiology (2017). He continued with a BSc Honours in Biochemistry (2018), focusing on protein expression and co-expression systems in Escherichia coli. In 2020, he completed his MSc in Biochemistry, investigating the effects of isoorientin on fat browning in insulin-resistant cells. This work laid the foundation for his later focus on flavonoids and adipocyte function. His doctoral studies at North-West University, completed in 2025, delved into the brown adipocyte secretome and the role of flavonoids in regulating batokine secretion. These qualifications equipped him with advanced expertise in molecular biology, mitochondrial physiology, metabolic disease mechanisms, and analytical biochemistry. Throughout his education, Dr. Ziqubu demonstrated academic excellence, earning competitive scholarships and awards, while also gaining teaching and mentorship experience. His academic path reflects a sustained commitment to bridging molecular science with real-world health solutions.

Experience 

Dr. Khanyisani Ziqubu has cultivated a rich professional career blending research, teaching, and mentorship. He is currently a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of the Western Cape (2025), specializing in cellular and molecular biochemistry. In 2024, he served as a Temporal Lecturer at North-West University, delivering advanced modules in cellular and molecular biology. From 2021 to 2023, he was a Student Assistant for introductory biochemistry, and earlier (2019–2020) he was a Junior Researcher in the South African Medical Research Council’s MSc Internship Programme. His teaching journey began as a Human Anatomy tutor at the University of Zululand (2017–2018). Dr. Ziqubu has supervised postgraduate research, guiding MSc and BSc Honours students to successful completion. His laboratory skills include working with rodent models, high-resolution respirometry, flow cytometry, and molecular assays. Additionally, he has participated in multiple community outreach initiatives, including diabetes awareness campaigns and science engagement showcases, underscoring his commitment to societal impact.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Khanyisani Ziqubu’s scientific excellence has been recognized through multiple prestigious awards and fellowships. In 2024, he received the IUBMB-FAOBMB-ComBio Young Scientist Program Fellowship, a testament to his promising research contributions and potential for global impact. Between 2019 and 2023, he was a recipient of the South African Medical Research Council Internship Scholarship Programme, which supported his MSc and doctoral research. His presentation skills and innovative findings earned him the Early Career Scientist Best Presentation Award in 2019. Earlier in his academic career, in 2017, he was honored with the CSIR-DST Inter-Programme Award for research excellence and innovation. These accolades reflect not only his scholarly achievements but also his dedication to advancing biochemistry in South Africa and internationally. They highlight his capacity to conduct high-quality research, mentor upcoming scientists, and contribute meaningfully to the scientific community through both academic and community-centered initiatives.

Research Focus 

Dr. Khanyisani Ziqubu’s research centers on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying metabolic disorders such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). His work investigates how bioactive compounds particularly flavonoids modulate adipose tissue function, inflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial bioenergetics. Using both in vitro cell culture and in vivo rodent models, he explores therapeutic strategies that target brown and beige adipose tissue to enhance metabolic health. He is skilled in advanced analytical techniques such as Seahorse XF metabolic flux analysis, Oroboros high-resolution respirometry, flow cytometry, molecular assays, and next-generation chromatography. His studies aim to bridge the gap between nutritional biochemistry and clinical interventions, providing mechanistic insights that could inform new treatments for metabolic diseases. Through his publications and conference presentations, Dr. Ziqubu contributes to global discussions on precision nutrition, functional foods, and targeted biochemical therapies for improving human health outcomes.

Publications 

  1. Pancreatic β-cell dysfunction in type 2 diabetes: Implications of inflammation and oxidative stress.

  2. Rutin ameliorates inflammation and improves metabolic function: A comprehensive analysis.

  3. Isoorientin: A dietary flavone with the potential to ameliorate diverse metabolic complications.

  4. Curcumin supplementation improves biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation in metabolic disorders.

  5. Detrimental effects of lipid peroxidation in type 2 diabetes: Neutralizing influence of antioxidants.

  6. N-acetyl cysteine targets hepatic lipid accumulation to curb oxidative stress and inflammation.

  7. Brown/beige adipose tissue whitening: A metabolic complication of obesity.

  8. Antidiabetic properties of Moringa oleifera extracts focusing on oxidative stress and inflammation.

  9. Drug-induced liver injury: Clinical evidence of N-acetyl cysteine protective effects.

  10. Anti-obesity effects of metformin targeting brown adipose tissue.

  11. Adipokines as a therapeutic target by metformin: A systematic review.

  12. Aspalathin’s potential to reverse hepatic insulin resistance by improving mitochondrial respiration.

Conclusion

Dr. Khanyisani Ziqubu is a rising star in biochemistry, blending rigorous research, innovative methodologies, and impactful mentorship. His work on flavonoids, adipose tissue biology, and metabolic disease positions him as a key contributor to biomedical science. With significant publications, international recognition, and community engagement, he exemplifies the qualities of a leading biochemical researcher.

Gaffar Sarwar Zaman | Biochemistry | Excellence in Research

Published on by Academic Excellence

Dr. Gaffar Sarwar Zaman | Biochemistry | Excellence in Research

Dr. Gaffar Sarwar Zaman, King Khalid University, Saudi Arabia

Dr. Gaffar Sarwar Zaman is a distinguished Assistant Professor in the Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences at King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia. With a robust academic background, including an MBBS, an MD in Biochemistry, and fellowships in Diabetes and Applied Nutrition, Dr. Zaman has established himself as a leading expert in medical biochemistry and clinical research. His extensive work in biochemical diagnostics and metabolic disorders has been instrumental in advancing medical science. Passionate about research, he has contributed significantly to the fields of cardiovascular biochemistry, metabolic diseases, and clinical nutrition. He has published high-impact scientific papers and actively collaborates with international researchers. Dr. Zaman’s dedication to education, research, and clinical excellence has earned him recognition in the global scientific community. His expertise in applied medical biochemistry continues to influence the advancement of healthcare practices and diagnostic methodologies worldwide.

Professional Profile 

Scopus

Orcid

google Scholar

Summary of Suitability for the “Research for Excellence in Research” Award

Dr. Gaffar Sarwar Zaman is a highly accomplished researcher and academic, making him an excellent candidate for the “Research for Excellence in Research” award. He holds multiple advanced degrees, including an MBBS, MD (Doctor of Medicine in Biochemistry), and specialized fellowships in diabetes and applied nutrition. His educational background is complemented by extensive experience in clinical research and laboratory sciences. Dr. Zaman’s multi-faceted expertise in medicine, biochemistry, clinical research, and nutrition showcases his versatility and commitment to advancing knowledge in these fields.

Dr. Zaman has made significant contributions to the scientific community through his research, with a focus on critical areas such as diabetes, nutrition, and biochemical markers. His published works, including studies on zearalenone detection in agricultural food samples and cardiovascular biomarkers in different environmental settings, highlight his ability to bridge clinical practice with cutting-edge research. His articles, published in reputable journals such as Materials Chemistry and Physics and Cellular and Molecular Biology, are indexed in leading databases like PubMed and Web of Science. This, along with his strong publication record in high-impact journals, underscores his excellence in research.

🎓 Education 

Dr. Gaffar Sarwar Zaman pursued his MBBS from Assam Medical College & Hospital, Dibrugarh University, India, where he acquired a strong foundation in medical sciences, including anatomy, physiology, pathology, and pharmacology. His keen interest in biochemistry led him to earn an MD (Doctor of Medicine) in Biochemistry, with a thesis on “Quantitation of Serum Iron with Assessment of Consequent Anemia during Pregnancy.” Expanding his expertise, he completed a Post Graduate Diploma in Clinical Research (PGDCR) from Symbiosis International University, India, equipping him with skills in clinical research methodology, biostatistics, and data analysis. Furthering his specialization, Dr. Zaman attained a Fellowship in Diabetes (FID) from the Royal Liverpool Academy, UK, and a Fellowship in Applied Nutrition (FIAN) from Medvarsity, Apollo Hospitals, India. These advanced qualifications have enabled him to contribute extensively to clinical diagnostics, metabolic research, and nutritional sciences, enhancing his impact in medical biochemistry.

💼 Professional Experience

Dr. Gaffar Sarwar Zaman has a rich professional career spanning academia, research, and clinical diagnostics. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences at King Khalid University, he plays a crucial role in educating future healthcare professionals and conducting high-impact biochemical research. His expertise extends to biochemical diagnostics, metabolic disorders, and clinical research, where he actively collaborates with international institutions. Before joining King Khalid University, he worked in esteemed medical institutions, refining his skills in clinical biochemistry and laboratory medicine. His work involves biochemical marker analysis, metabolic disease management, and advanced clinical laboratory investigations. His profound knowledge and experience have made him a sought-after expert in biochemical research and medical diagnostics. He is actively involved in scientific publishing, presenting at conferences, and mentoring students in advanced biochemical methodologies, furthering his impact in the global medical community.

🏅 Awards and Recognition

Dr. Gaffar Sarwar Zaman has been widely recognized for his contributions to medical biochemistry and clinical research. His excellence in scientific research has earned him multiple awards and accolades from esteemed organizations. He has received recognition for his pioneering work in cardiovascular biochemistry, metabolic disease diagnostics, and clinical nutrition. Dr. Zaman’s contributions to medical science have been acknowledged in various international conferences and research symposiums. His research publications in high-impact journals have placed him among the leading experts in biochemistry. He has been awarded fellowships, including the Fellowship in Diabetes (FID) and the Fellowship in Applied Nutrition (FIAN), in recognition of his expertise. Additionally, his collaborative research efforts with international institutions have further cemented his reputation as a leading scientist. Dr. Zaman continues to be an influential figure in biochemistry, inspiring young researchers and medical professionals through his dedicated work and groundbreaking research.

🌍 Research Skills On Biochemistry

Dr. Gaffar Sarwar Zaman possesses advanced research skills in medical biochemistry, clinical diagnostics, and metabolic disorders. His expertise lies in biochemical marker analysis, electrochemical biosensors, and nutritional biochemistry. His research focuses on metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular biomarkers, diabetes, and clinical nutrition. Dr. Zaman is proficient in conducting laboratory investigations using advanced biochemical techniques, including spectrophotometry, chromatography, and electrochemical analysis. His research methodology includes data analysis, biostatistics, and clinical trials, ensuring high scientific accuracy and reliability. He has contributed to several peer-reviewed journals and collaborates with international researchers to develop innovative diagnostic techniques. His ability to integrate clinical research with biochemical diagnostics has significantly improved disease detection and management. Dr. Zaman is also skilled in scientific writing, grant proposal development, and mentoring young researchers, making him a key contributor to the field of medical biochemistry and clinical research.

Publication Top Notes

  • Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles by Conocarpus Lancifolius plant extract and their antimicrobial and anticancer activities
    Authors: M Oves, MA Rauf, M Aslam, HA Qari, H Sonbol, I Ahmad, GS Zaman, …
    Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, 29(1), 460-471
    Year: 2022
  • Pathogenesis of insulin resistance
    Author: GS Zaman
    Cellular Metabolism and Related Disorders, 52
    Year: 2020
  • Ciprofloxacin adsorption using magnetic and ZnO nanoparticles supported activated carbon derived from Azolla filiculoides biomass
    Authors: AA Alameri, RHC Alfilh, SA Awad, GS Zaman, TJ Al-Musawi, MM Joybari, …
    Biomass Conversion and Biorefinery, 14(21), 27001-27014
    Year: 2024
  • A Comparative Antibacterial, Antioxidant, and Antineoplastic Potential of Rauwolfia serpentina (L.) Leaf Extract with Its Biologically Synthesized Gold Nanoparticles
    Authors: MY Alshahrani, Z Rafi, NM Alabdallah, A Shoaib, I Ahmad, M Asiri, …
    Plants, 10(11), 2278
    Year: 2021
  • Synergistic efficacies of thymoquinone and standard antibiotics against multi-drug resistant isolates
    Authors: AA Dera, I Ahmad, P Rajagopalan, M Al Shahrani, A Saif, MY Alshahrani, …
    Saudi Medical Journal, 42(2), 196
    Year: 2021
  • Effects of weight reduction after sleeve gastrectomy on metabolic variables in Saudi obese subjects in Aseer Province of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
    Authors: MA Bawahab, AS Assiri, WA Maksoud, A Patel, O Kadoumi, GS Zaman, …
    Obesity Surgery, 27, 2005-2014
    Year: 2017
  • Glucose indices, frank and undetected diabetes in relation to hypertension and anthropometry in a South Indian rural population
    Authors: FA Zaman, R Pal, GS Zaman, IA Swati, A Kayyum
    Indian Journal of Public Health, 55(1), 34-37
    Year: 2011
  • Assessment of knowledge, attitude, and practice concerning COVID-19 among undergraduate students of faculty of applied medical sciences at King Khalid University, Abha, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
    Authors: M Adam, M Gameraddin, M Alelyani, GS Zaman, A Musa, I Ahmad, …
    Advances in Medical Education and Practice, 789-797
    Year: 2021
  • A combined chemical, computational, and in vitro approach identifies SBL-105 as novel DHODH inhibitor in acute myeloid leukemia cells
    Authors: H Kamli, GS Zaman, A Shaikh, AA Mobarki, P Rajagopalan
    Oncology Research, 28(9), 899
    Year: 2022
  • Inhibitory Effect of Nepeta deflersiana on Climax Bacterial Community Isolated from the Oral Plaque of Patients with Periodontal Disease
    Authors: I Ahmad, S Irfan, M Abohashrh, S Wahab, SS Abullais, MA Javali, N Nisar, …
    Molecules, 26(1), 202
    Year: 2021

Marwa Elhamdi | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Academic Excellence

Dr. Marwa Elhamdi | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

👤 Dr. Marwa Elhamdi, Faculty of Sciences of Sfax, Tunisia.

Elhamdi Marwa, a distinguished Tunisian researcher born on July 9, 1994, has made notable contributions to the fields of biochemistry and molecular biology. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology from the Faculty of Sciences of Sfax and subsequently completed a master’s in Genomics and Proteomics. Her Ph.D. research at the Faculty of Sciences of Sfax focused on protease production and its biotechnological applications. With an international research background that includes internships in Tunisia, France, and Germany, she has published influential papers on enzyme production, protease stability, and industrial applications. Her work has advanced the use of proteases in detergent, leather, and waste management industries. Fluent in Arabic, French, and English, Marwa combines her expertise with a passion for microbial biochemistry, aiming to address global industrial challenges through innovative research.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

🌟 Dr. Marwa Elhamdi, Evaluation of Suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award

Summary of Suitability:

Dr. Elhamdi Marwa demonstrates exceptional qualifications for the “Research for Best Researcher Award” due to her extensive academic background, research experience, and notable contributions to biotechnology and enzymology. Her doctoral research focused on characterizing and optimizing proteases from Bacillus swezeyi and Bacillus zhangzhouensis, which have significant biotechnological applications in detergents, waste management, and leather processing. These advancements reflect her expertise in addressing industrial challenges through innovative scientific approaches. Her record of publications in reputable journals, including studies on novel proteases with stable properties under extreme conditions, showcases her impactful contributions to the field. Additionally, her active participation in international conferences through oral and poster presentations highlights her engagement with the scientific community and her ability to disseminate knowledge effectively.

🎓 Education 

Elhamdi Marwa began her academic journey with a Baccalaureate in Mathematics in 2013. She pursued a bachelor’s degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology at the Faculty of Sciences of Sfax (2013–2016). Building on this foundation, she earned a master’s degree in Genomics and Proteomics (2016–2018), focusing on the genetic mechanisms of hereditary deafness. Her research utilized Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a model organism to identify the effects of SSBP1 gene mutations.

Currently, Marwa is a Ph.D. candidate in Biological Sciences at the National Engineering School of Sfax. Her doctoral thesis investigates alkaline proteases from Bacillus swezeyi B2 and Bacillus zhangzhouensis MH1, aiming to optimize their production, molecular characterization, and biotechnological applications. Her academic achievements are complemented by certifications in detergent manufacturing and advanced molecular biology techniques.

💼  Professional Experience 

Elhamdi Marwa’s professional experience reflects her multidisciplinary expertise. In 2014, she completed an internship at Jebeniana Regional Hospital in Tunisia, gaining practical insights into medical analysis. Between 2018 and 2022, she engaged in multiple research internships, including the prestigious Institute of Nano- and Biotechnologies at Aachen University of Applied Sciences, Germany.

Notable among her experiences is the co-supervision of a master’s project on protease optimization in detergents (2022). Her work at the Sfax Biotechnology Center involved screening microorganisms for industrial biomolecules like proteases, amylases, and lipopeptides.

Marwa’s contributions extend to academia, with oral and poster presentations at international conferences such as the Tunisian Society of Biological Sciences. Her collaborations with renowned scientists have enhanced her expertise in enzyme purification, molecular characterization, and industrial enzyme application.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

Marwa’s contributions to biochemistry have been recognized at numerous national and international scientific forums. She has actively participated in the Tunisian Society of Biological Sciences congresses, delivering oral and poster communications on enzyme stability and protease applications in detergents. Her notable achievements include presenting her work at the 31st and 32nd ATSB Congress and the “Doctoriales des Sciences Biologiques” in Sfax. These platforms have highlighted her innovative research in enzymology and biotechnological applications. Her published studies in esteemed journals, such as Current Microbiology and the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, further demonstrate her scientific impact. These accolades reflect her dedication to advancing sustainable biotechnological solutions.

🌍  Research Skills 

Marwa is skilled in microbiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology, with an emphasis on enzyme engineering. She excels in isolating and characterizing microorganisms that produce biomolecules of industrial importance, such as proteases and keratinases. Her expertise includes enzymatic activity assays, protein purification, and biochemical characterization for various applications. Proficient in genomic DNA extraction, PCR, cloning, and heterologous protein expression, she integrates molecular techniques with computational tools like SnapGene and MEGA-X for in silico analyses. Marwa’s research focuses on sustainable applications, including protease use in detergents, leather processing, and waste management. Her collaborative and interdisciplinary approach bridges fundamental science with industrial innovation.

📖 Publication Top Notes

Bacillus Swezeyi B2 Strain: A Novel Alkaliphilic Bacterium Producer of Alkaline-, Thermal, Oxidant-, and Surfactant-Stable Protease, Extremely Efficient in Detergency
  • Authors: M. Elhamdi, S. Ghorbel, N. Hmidet
  • Journal: Current Microbiology
  • Citations (Quoted by): 5
Proteases and Keratinases from Bacillus Zhangzhouensis MH1: Practical Use in Detergent, Leather, and Waste Management Processes
  • Authors: M. Elhamdi, C. Belhadjletaief, N. Hmidet, S. Ghorbel
  • Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules