Ms. Havva Mehralitabar | Biophysics | Women Researcher Award

Ms. Havva Mehralitabar, Tarbiat modares university, Iran

Dr. Havva Mehralitabar Firozjah, born on December 2, 1985, is a distinguished biophysicist specializing in molecular dynamics simulations, peptide design, and nanotechnology. Currently a researcher at Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University, Iran, she has made significant contributions to cancer research, bacterial and viral infections, and peptide-based therapeutic designs. With a strong academic foundation, Dr. Mehralitabar’s Ph.D. in Biophysics from Tarbiat Modares University centered on self-assembling peptide nanofibers, laying the groundwork for her innovative approaches in neural stem cell differentiation. Her work is marked by numerous high-impact publications and collaborations in computational biology and molecular simulations. As a researcher and educator, she has excelled in both wet lab and computational biology skills, mentoring students and contributing to interdisciplinary scientific advancements.

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Summary of Suitability for the Research for Women Researcher Award

Havva Mehralitabar Firozjah is an outstanding candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award based on her impressive academic background, diverse research experience, and contributions to science. With a Ph.D. in Biophysics from Tarbiat Modares University and a focus on molecular dynamics, she has worked on pioneering projects in cancer, bacterial and viral infections, and nanotechnology. Her research skills, particularly in computational biology and molecular dynamics simulations, are extensive, covering critical areas like protein modeling, molecular docking, and bioactive peptide design.

Education

Dr. Havva Mehralitabar Firozjah’s academic journey is marked by excellence and dedication to biophysics and molecular biology. She earned her Ph.D. in Biophysics (2013-2018) from Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, where her thesis on self-assembling alkylated peptide nanofibers provided a unique perspective on neural differentiation. Before this, she completed her M.Sc. in Biophysics (2009-2012) at the Institute for Advanced Studies of Basic Sciences (IASBS), Zanjan, where she investigated the thermodynamic interactions between Doxorubicin and DNA. Dr. Mehralitabar also holds a B.Sc. in Plant Biology (2004-2008) from Alzahra University, Tehran. Her research focus spans molecular dynamics simulations and computational biology, and she has developed deep expertise in both theoretical and practical applications of biophysics, laying a strong foundation for her groundbreaking research in peptide-based therapeutic designs and biomolecular structures.

Experience

Dr. Havva Mehralitabar Firozjah has accumulated extensive research experience across various scientific domains. She is currently a researcher (2020-2023) at Sari Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources University, focusing on in silico studies of lactoferrin mechanisms in cancer and bacterial infections. Prior to this, she served as a consultant (2018-2020) at Hakim Sabzevari University, guiding M.Sc. students in molecular dynamics simulations. As an adjunct professor (2019-2022), she taught advanced courses in system biology and molecular docking methods, further shaping young scientists. Her experience in both wet labs and computational biology makes her a versatile scientist, skilled in molecular simulations, peptide design, and biophysics research. Through multiple collaborations and supervisory roles, Dr. Mehralitabar has played a key role in advancing research in the field of molecular biology and nanotechnology.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Havva Mehralitabar Firozjah’s contributions to biophysics have earned her numerous awards and recognitions. Notably, she secured 6th place in the National Ph.D. Entrance Exam (2013) out of 120 participants, showcasing her academic prowess. She has also served as a reviewer for the esteemed Journal of Computer in Biology and Medicine (2020-2022), underlining her expertise in computational biology. During her academic tenure, Dr. Mehralitabar received several honors for her innovative research in molecular dynamics simulations and peptide nanotechnology, including recognition from Tarbiat Modares University for her exceptional Ph.D. thesis on alkylated-peptide nanofibers. Additionally, her active participation in conferences and workshops has led to several poster presentations, contributing to her standing as a thought leader in her field. Her relentless pursuit of scientific excellence continues to make a significant impact on the biophysics research community.

Research Focus

Dr. Havva Mehralitabar Firozjah’s research primarily revolves around molecular dynamics simulations, peptide design, and nanotechnology. Her work focuses on exploring the interactions between peptides and biological molecules to develop innovative therapeutic strategies. One of her most notable projects includes in silico studies of lactoferrin mechanisms, aiming to address cancer, bacterial, and viral infections. She also specializes in self-assembling peptides for neural stem cell differentiation, demonstrating the potential of biomaterials in regenerative medicine. Dr. Mehralitabar’s research extends into the structural dynamics of proteins, molecular docking, and simulations to understand how molecular structures influence biological functions. With extensive expertise in computational biology and hands-on molecular biology techniques, her work integrates theoretical approaches with practical lab results, making strides in drug design and biomolecular engineering.

Publication Top Notes

A combination of bioactive and nonbioactive alkyl-peptides form a more stable nanofiber structure for differentiating neural stem cells: a molecular dynamics simulation survey
Citations: 9
Abiraterone and D4, 3-keto Abiraterone binding to CYP17A1, a structural comparison study by molecular dynamic simulation
Citations: 3
The role of Wnt palmitoleylated loop conserved disulfide bonds in Wnt-frizzled complex structural dynamics: Insights from molecular dynamics simulations
Citations: 1
The physicochemical properties role of a functionalized alkyl-peptide in nanofibre formation and neural progenitor cells viability and survival
Citations: 1
In vitro study of the expression of autophagy genes ATG101, mTOR and AMPK in breast cancer with treatment of lactoferrin and in silico study of their communication networks and …

Ms. Meaad Alqahtany, King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Saudi Arabia

Meaad Alqahtany is a dedicated biologist specializing in cellular and molecular biology, with a focus on understanding the structural intricacies of prokaryotic cells. Currently a Research Assistant at King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences in Saudi Arabia, Meaad plays a key role in supporting research projects, monitoring ongoing studies, and contributing to data analysis. With prior experience as a part-time lecturer and science teacher, she brings a blend of academic rigor and practical teaching experience. Her research revolves around using high-resolution microscopies to investigate surface cell molecules, particularly in bacterial cells.

Summary of Suitability for the Research for Research Excellence Award

Meaad Alqahtany is a strong candidate for the Research for Research Excellence Award. Her extensive research experience, publication record, leadership initiatives, and passion for education make her well-suited for recognition. Her work in cellular and molecular biology, coupled with her ability to teach and mentor, positions her as a scientist contributing significantly to both her field and the broader scientific community.

Education

Meaad Alqahtany holds a Master of Science in Cell and Molecular Biology from the University of Arkansas (2019), where she researched bacterial cell proteins using advanced molecular techniques. She completed her Bachelor’s in Biology (Microbiology) at King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia, in 2014. In addition to her formal education, Meaad has also completed several advanced courses and workshops, including research data management, scientific writing, and statistical analysis. Her diverse educational background equips her with a deep understanding of biological sciences and the technical skills needed for cutting-edge research.

Experience

Meaad has amassed significant experience across academic and research settings. As a Research Assistant since 2021, she has supported projects at King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences. Previously, she was a Lecturer at Bisha University, teaching Micro Techniques. From 2019-2021, she taught science to middle school students at Majestic International School, where she also organized science fairs. During her time at the University of Arkansas (2017-2019), she conducted advanced research on bacterial cell proteins as part of her graduate studies. Meaad has also been a Lab Instructor, training undergraduate students in biology lab techniques.

Awards and Honors

Founder and active member of the Biology Club at the College of Science
Organized New Students Orientation, Bio Day, and other student events
Led the 3-Minute Research Proposal competition at KSAU-HS
Presented research at international conferences on cellular biology
Received recognition for her contribution to scientific publications on antimicrobial mechanisms and nanoparticle effects

Research Focus

Meaad’s research focuses on cellular and molecular biology, particularly prokaryotic cells. She uses high-resolution microscopy techniques to investigate surface cell molecules, including histone-like proteins and nucleoid structuring in bacteria. Her studies aim to uncover the molecular mechanisms of how silver nanoparticles affect bacterial cells and their proteins, shedding light on antimicrobial actions. Meaad also delves into nanoparticle stability and its impact on biological systems, providing insight into how nanotechnology can influence microbiology.

Publication Top Notes

Faculty and students perspectives towards game-based learning in health sciences higher education
Nanoscale reorganizations of histone-like nucleoid structuring proteins in Escherichia coli are caused by silver nanoparticles
- Citations: 18