Priya Saxena | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Priya Saxena | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, United States

Dr. Priya Saxena is a highly motivated biotechnologist pursuing her Ph.D. in Chemical and Biological Engineering at the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (SDSM&T), with expected completion in May 2025 under the mentorship of Prof. (Dr.) Rajesh K. Sani. Her research bridges environmental microbiology, molecular biology, and computational biology, with a particular emphasis on sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB), biofilm formation, and stress adaptation on metallic and non-metallic surfaces. She has gained expertise in anaerobic microbial culturing, biofilm reactor studies, nucleic acid extraction, nanopore sequencing, transcriptomics, proteomics, and single-cell genomics. Priya has also developed custom pipelines for omics data analysis, identified essential genes through comparative genomics, and engineered GFP-tagged bacterial strains to study biofilm dynamics. Beyond her research, she has demonstrated strong leadership by mentoring undergraduate and graduate students, teaching microbiology and bioinformatics courses, and assisting in grant writing. Her scholarly contributions include 14 peer-reviewed publications, two book chapters, and several conference presentations. With technical proficiency in advanced analytical tools such as GC-MS, HPLC, SEM, CLSM, and bioreactor operations, she combines wet-lab and computational approaches to address microbial corrosion and biofilm-associated challenges. Priya’s work reflects innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a strong potential for advancing biotechnology and microbial engineering.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Sulfate-Reducing Bacteria: Unraveling Biofilm Complexity, Stress Adaptation, and Strategies for Corrosion Control – Science of the Total Environment

  • Comparative Transcriptomics Analysis of the Oleidesulfovibrio alaskensis G20 Biofilms Grown on Copper and Polycarbonate Surfaces – Biofilm

  • pH-dependent Genotypic and Phenotypic Variability in Oleidesulfovibrio alaskensis G20 – Applied and Environmental Microbiology

  • Impact of Graphene Layers on Genetic Expression and Regulation within Sulfate-Reducing Biofilms – Microorganisms

  • Influence of Copper on Oleidesulfovibrio alaskensis G20 Biofilm Formation – Microorganisms

Khanyisani Ziqubu | Biochemistry | Young Scientist Award

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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.

Marizia Trevizani | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Marizia Trevizani | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Marizia Trevizani, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Brazil

Marizia Trevizani is a distinguished Brazilian researcher specializing in biochemistry, genetics, and biomaterials. She earned her Bachelor’s and Licentiate degrees in Biological Sciences from the Federal University of Juiz de Fora (UFJF) in 2014. She further pursued a Master’s and Ph.D. in Biological Sciences with a focus on Genetics and Biotechnology at UFJF, including a research exchange at Temple University, USA. In 2024, she completed a postdoctoral fellowship at UFJF, focusing on the development of hydrogels derived from decellularized bovine bone matrix. Currently, she is a postdoctoral researcher at UFJF, exploring biological matrices for the creation of natural biomaterials and their recellularization. Her expertise spans human and plant genetics, bioengineering, and biomaterials. Additionally, she has experience in education, having taught Biology and Science to middle and high school students from 2016 to 2023. Her research contributes to advancements in biotechnological applications in healthcare and regenerative medicine.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Suitability for the “Research for Best Researcher Award” – Marizia Trevizani

Marizia Trevizani demonstrates a highly impressive academic trajectory, showcasing extensive research experience in both basic and applied biological sciences. Her academic background, which includes a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate in Biological Sciences with a focus on genetics, biotechnology, and bioengineering, sets her apart as a versatile and highly qualified researcher. Her doctoral work, which explored methods of decellularization of bovine trabecular bone and hydrogel fabrication, is an innovative contribution to the field of biomaterials and tissue engineering.

Her postdoctoral work further exemplifies her expertise in biomaterials, particularly in developing natural biomaterials through biological matrices for tissue regeneration, reflecting her capacity for cutting-edge research with practical applications in healthcare. She also contributes to the scientific community by publishing significant research and is actively involved in educational initiatives, having taught biology and science to secondary school students.

🎓 Education 

Marizia Trevizani has an extensive academic background in biological sciences. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from UFJF in 2014, where she conducted research on plant cytogenetics and genome size. She pursued a Master’s in Biological Sciences (2015–2017) at UFJF, focusing on the evaluation of plant-derived peptones as fetal bovine serum substitutes in stem cell cultures. Her Ph.D. (2017–2022) at UFJF, with a research exchange at Temple University, USA, concentrated on decellularization techniques for bovine trabecular bone and hydrogel fabrication. She also holds a specialization in Biotechnology from the Metropolitan College of São Paulo (2021–2022). Further enhancing her expertise, she completed postdoctoral research at UFJF (2023–2024) in biomaterials and tissue engineering. Additionally, she has completed various specialized training programs in chromatography, 3D printing for healthcare, molecular cloning, and pharmacology. Her academic journey has equipped her with a multidisciplinary perspective in biochemistry, biotechnology, and regenerative medicine.

💼 Professional Experience

Marizia Trevizani has built a diverse career in both research and education. As a postdoctoral researcher at UFJF, she specializes in developing biomaterials from biological matrices and studying their recellularization potential. She previously completed a postdoctoral project on hydrogels derived from decellularized bovine bone. Her doctoral and master’s research also focused on biomaterials and tissue engineering, specifically in the field of biotechnological applications. Beyond academia, she has extensive teaching experience, having worked as a Biology and Science teacher for middle and high school students between 2016 and 2023. Her work also includes participation in research projects involving genetic studies of plants and humans, bioengineering, and applied biotechnology. She has attended numerous training programs, enhancing her skills in chromatography, molecular biology, and 3D bioprinting. Her expertise lies at the intersection of genetics, biotechnology, and biomedical engineering, contributing to cutting-edge advancements in regenerative medicine.

🏅 Awards and Recognition

Throughout her career, Marizia Trevizani has received recognition for her contributions to biochemistry, biomaterials, and genetics. She was awarded research fellowships from the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (CAPES) during her Master’s and Ph.D. studies. Her postdoctoral research was supported by the Minas Gerais Research Foundation (FAPEMIG). She has received accolades for her contributions to genetic and biotechnological research, particularly in developing alternative biomaterials for medical applications. Her doctoral research exchange at Temple University, USA, was a prestigious achievement, allowing her to collaborate with leading scientists in tissue engineering. Additionally, she has been recognized for her work in education, having influenced numerous students as a Biology teacher. Her dedication to advancing biomaterials and regenerative medicine has earned her invitations to scientific conferences, research collaborations, and specialized training programs in biotechnology, bioengineering, and genetics.

🌍 Research Skills On Biochemistry

Marizia Trevizani possesses a diverse set of research skills in biochemistry, biotechnology, and genetics. She specializes in biomaterials development, particularly in hydrogel fabrication and decellularization techniques for tissue engineering applications. Her expertise extends to genetic analysis, including cytogenetics, genome size evaluation, and molecular cloning. She is proficient in cell culture techniques, working extensively with plant-derived peptones as alternatives to fetal bovine serum in stem cell research. Additionally, she has experience in bioengineering, 3D bioprinting, and chromatographic techniques for material characterization. She has conducted in-depth research on plant and human genetics, focusing on biotechnological applications in healthcare. Her analytical skills are complemented by her participation in multiple training programs, covering pharmacology, molecular biology, and laboratory animal sciences. Through interdisciplinary research, she continues to contribute to advancements in regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, and sustainable biomaterials.

📖 Publication Top Notes

  • Title: Effects of decellularization on glycosaminoglycans and collagen macromolecules in bovine bone extracellular matrix
    • Authors: Marizia Trevizani, Laís Lopardi Leal, Rodolpho José da Silva Barros, Flávia de Paoli, Breno Valentim Nogueira, Fabiano Freire Costa, Jair Adriano Kopke de Aguiar, Carlos Magno da Costa Maranduba
    • Citation: Trevizani, M., Leal, L. L., Barros, R. J. d. S., Paoli, F. d., Nogueira, B. V., Costa, F. F., Aguiar, J. A. K. d., Maranduba, C. M. d. C. (2025). Effects of decellularization on glycosaminoglycans and collagen macromolecules in bovine bone extracellular matrix. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules.
    • Year: 2025
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.141007
  • Title: Plantas alimentícias não convencionais (PANC): potencialidades para indústria farmacêutica e de alimentos
    • Authors: Samuel Honório da Silva, Felipe Kelmer Müller, Igor Rosa Meurer, Marizia Trevizani, Fabiano Freire Costa
    • Citation: Silva, S. H. d., Müller, F. K., Meurer, I. R., Trevizani, M., Costa, F. F. (2023). Plantas alimentícias não convencionais (PANC): potencialidades para indústria farmacêutica e de alimentos. Revista Gestão & Sustentabilidade.
    • Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.36661/2596-142X.2022v4n1.14085
  • Title: Tumor necrosis factor α, and agonist and antagonists of cannabinoid receptor type 1 and type 2 alter the immunophenotype of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth
    • Authors: Marizia Trevizani, Laís Lopardi Leal, João Vitor Paes Rettore, Gilson Costa Macedo, Caio César de Souza Alves,
    • Citation: Trevizani, M., Leal, L. L., Rettore, J. V. P., Macedo, G. C., Alves, C. C. d. S., Castro, S. B. R. d., Carmo, A. M. R. d., Silva, S. A. d., Maranduba, C. M. d. C., Silva, F. d. S. (2023).
    • Year: 2023