Gejla Toromani | Biochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Ms. Gejla Toromani | Biochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Miami University | United States

Ms. Gejla Toromani is an Honors College undergraduate researcher majoring in Biology with a premedical concentration at Miami University, with an expected graduation in 2026. Her interdisciplinary research spans virology, regenerative medicine, oncology, climate biology, and biomedical physics. She has contributed to at least five peer-reviewed publications in reputable international journals, including AIP Advances, Cureus, Annals of Plastic Surgery, and Medicina, and has presented her work at major national and international conferences. Her research experience includes a competitive summer fellowship at the University of Illinois Chicago, collaborative cancer database studies with multiple U.S. institutions, and long-term ecological analyses of Antarctic algae under climate stress. Through translational projects such as VR therapy for Parkinson’s disease and crisis mental health support, her work demonstrates clear societal relevance. Actively engaged in leadership and undergraduate research advocacy, she represents a strong emerging scholar with meaningful global and community impact.

Citation Metrics (Scopus)

40

30

20

10

0

Citations
0
h-index
0
Documents
2

Citations

h-index

Documents

Magdalena Koziol | Biochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Magdalena Koziol | Biochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Chinese Instistute for Brain Research | China

Dr. Magdalena Koziol is an Assistant Professor and Principal Investigator at the Chinese Institute for Brain Research (CIBR), China, where she leads an innovative research program at the intersection of developmental biology, epigenetics, and neuroscience. She completed her PhD in Developmental Biology at the University of Cambridge, UK, supported by a prestigious Wellcome Trust Studentship, with laboratory rotations under globally recognized leaders including Sir John B. Gurdon, Sarah Bray, and Azim Surani. Prior to this, she earned a BSc in Medical Genetics from the University of Leicester, UK, where she received two academic excellence awards, and previously undertook Physics studies at the University of Stuttgart, Germany. Dr. Koziol’s postdoctoral career includes highly competitive appointments with Sir John B. Gurdon at the Gurdon Institute, Antonio Giraldez at Yale University, and John Rinn at Harvard University and the Broad Institute. Her interdisciplinary background has helped shape a research portfolio focused on uncovering previously unknown chemical modifications of DNA and RNA and understanding their functional relevance in the vertebrate brain. Her groundbreaking discovery of methylated deoxyadenosine (m6dA) in vertebrate genomes, published in 2015, established a new field of study in epigenetic regulation and earned recognition from AAAS Science for excellence in scientific achievement. Her research has secured major competitive funding, including support from the Beijing Natural Science Foundation, the Koziol Laboratory core funding at CIBR, the BBSRC (UK), the Isaac Newton Trust, and the Human Frontiers Long-Term Fellowship program. She has also been recognized with distinguished honors, including an invitation to Buckingham Palace by Queen Elizabeth II. Through high-impact publications, international collaboration, and translational scientific vision, Dr. Koziol’s work contributes to advancing molecular neuroscience, with growing implications for understanding brain disorders and developing therapeutic strategies.

Profiles: ORCID

Featured Publications

Li, S., Zhang, S., Li, H., Yin, N., Yang, R., Zhang, Y., Koziol, M. J., & Faiola, F. (2025). Environmental UV filters threaten human neurodevelopment: Disruption of central and peripheral nervous system lineage commitment via WNT signaling dysregulation.

Feng, S., & Koziol, M. J. (2025). Unraveling brain complexity: From single-cell to spatial m6A technologies.

Feng, S., Tellaetxe-Abete, M., Zhang, Y., Peng, Y., Zhou, H., Dong, M., Larrea, E., Xue, L., Zhang, L., & Koziol, M. J. (2024). Single-cell discovery of m6A RNA modifications in the hippocampus.

Feng, S., Tellaetxe-Abete, M., Zhang, Y., Peng, Y., Zhou, H., Dong, M., Larrea, E., Xue, L., Zhang, L., & Koziol, M. J. (2023, December 13). Single-cell discovery of m6A RNA modifications in the hippocampus.

Wen, M.-H., Triana, H. B., Butler, R., Hu, H.-W., Dai, Y.-H., Lawrence, N., Hong, J.-J., Garrett, N., Jones-Green, R., Rawlins, E. L., & others. (2023). Deterministic nuclear reprogramming of mammalian nuclei to a totipotency-like state by amphibian meiotic oocytes for stem cell therapy in humans.

Georgia Zahariou | Biochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Georgia Zahariou | Biochemistry | Research Excellence Award

Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, NCSR “Demokritos”, Athens, Greece

Dr. Georgia Zahariou is an accomplished physicist specializing in Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, photosynthetic water oxidation mechanisms, and bioinorganic magnetic materials. She is currently a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology at the National Center for Scientific Research (NCSR) Demokritos in Athens, Greece, where she contributes to cutting-edge research on photosystem II and the molecular mechanisms underlying oxygen evolution. Dr. Zahariou earned her Ph.D. in Physics from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens in collaboration with NCSR Demokritos, graduating with Excellence. Her doctoral research focused on spin-spin interactions in metalloradical systems and the mechanistic study of natural photosynthetic water splitting, forming the foundation of her long-term scientific trajectory. She also holds a Master’s degree in Solid-State Physics and a Bachelor’s degree in Physics from the same institution. With extensive research experience across leading laboratories in Greece and internationally—including the University of Padova and the University of Crete—Dr. Zahariou has contributed to multiple national and European research programs such as HELIOS, THALIS, and KRIPIS. She has presented her work at numerous international conferences, delivered invited talks, and earned important distinctions including the Young Talent Award (2015) and the 4th Poster Prize (2007) from the International Society of Photosynthesis Research. Her scientific output includes over 25 peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, and conference proceedings, with contributions published in high-impact venues like Angewandte Chemie, FEBS Letters, and Biochemistry. Her research features both experimental and theoretical studies, reflecting strong interdisciplinary expertise in spectroscopy, magnetochemistry, molecular bioenergetics, and computational modeling. Dr. Zahariou’s work continues to advance global understanding of catalytic mechanisms in natural and artificial photosynthesis, positioning her as a recognized expert in magnetic resonance applications to biological energy conversion.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. (2021). Di-2-pyridyl ketone-based ligands as evergreen “trees” in the “forest” of manganese chemistry: Mononuclear Mn(III) complexes from the use of MnF₃. Polyhedron, 207, Article 115350.

  2. (2021). Arrested substrate binding resolves catalytic intermediates in higher-plant water oxidation. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 60, 3156–3162.

  3. (2021). Electronic properties of the S = 5/2 Mn(II) complexes [MnPhC(O)NP(O)PPh₂(N,N)(NO₃)], (N,N) = phenanthroline, neocuproine, 2,2′-bipyridine. Polyhedron, 207, Article 115374.

  4. (2021). Electronic structure of tyrosyl D radical of photosystem II, as revealed by 2D-hyperfine sublevel correlation spectroscopy. Magnetochemistry, 7, Article 131.

  5. (2021). Orientational Jahn–Teller isomerism in the dark-stable state of nature’s water oxidase. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 60, 13493–13499.

Azam Moosavi | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Azam Moosavi | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

R&D lab Manager/supervisor of innovation center of SCARM(Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine) from Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran

Dr. Azam Moosavi is a dedicated and innovative biochemist specializing in beta-cell regeneration for the treatment of Type 1 diabetes. With a strong academic foundation and a passion for interdisciplinary research, she integrates molecular biology, regenerative medicine, and clinical biochemistry in her scientific work. Over her academic and professional career, she has developed a notable track record in research, mentorship, and laboratory management. Her research aims to translate scientific findings into real-world applications, especially for chronic diseases like diabetes. She has contributed to several peer-reviewed publications, presented at major international conferences, and co-authored a book chapter on bioactive peptides. Currently serving as R&D and Cell Culture Lab Manager at the Innovation Center of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Dr. Moosavi is also actively involved in mentoring young researchers. With additional expertise in teaching, clinical laboratory operations, and scientific writing, she brings a multifaceted approach to biomedical research. Her work demonstrates both academic rigor and practical impact, and she is highly regarded for her contributions to translational medicine, epigenetics, and molecular diagnostics. Dr. Moosavi continues to strive toward scientific excellence, combining curiosity with applied innovation in pursuit of better health solutions.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Azam Moosavi’s academic journey reflects her deep commitment to biomedical sciences and health research. She earned her Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (IBB) at the University of Tehran, where her thesis focused on beta-cell regeneration in Type 1 diabetes through pharmaceutical induction. Her Ph.D. was marked by an impressive GPA (3.7/4) and resulted in multiple scientific presentations and publications. Prior to that, she completed a Master of Public Health (MPH) in Health Management and Reform at Tehran University of Medical Sciences, focusing on strategic risk management in health systems. She also holds an M.Sc. in Biochemistry from Tarbiat Moallem University in Tehran, where she investigated alpha thalassemia genetics, leading to multiple congress presentations. Dr. Moosavi began her academic training with a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Laboratory Sciences from Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, followed by an Associate degree in the same field from Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Her academic record is consistent, with GPA scores ranging from 3.3 to 3.9, showcasing a solid grasp of theory and practice. These multidisciplinary qualifications equip her with a robust foundation for both laboratory research and healthcare innovation.

Professional Experience

Dr. Moosavi brings over two decades of experience spanning research, laboratory management, and academic instruction. Since March 2023, she has served as R&D and Cell Culture Lab Manager at the Innovation Center of Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine (SCARM), Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. Here, she supervises experimental design, oversees lab operations, mentors postgraduates, and contributes to cutting-edge regenerative research. Prior to this role, Dr. Moosavi spent ten years teaching biochemistry laboratory courses to medical, dental, and pharmacy students at Alborz University of Medical Sciences. Her instruction emphasized clinical applications and hands-on skills, significantly enhancing student competency in diagnostics. Between 2005 and 2013, she managed clinical laboratories in various health centers and at Kasra Hospital in Karaj, where she was responsible for quality control, team supervision, and staff training across hematology, microbiology, and biochemistry divisions. In addition to her formal roles, she has led workshops in quality control and hematology testing, implemented risk management strategies, and participated in numerous clinical and academic projects. Her professional journey is characterized by leadership in education, hands-on expertise in diagnostics, and a drive to integrate innovative research with public health practice.

Research Interests

Dr. Moosavi’s research interests are centered on the intersection of molecular biology, regenerative medicine, and clinical diagnostics. Her primary focus is on beta-cell regeneration as a therapeutic strategy for Type 1 diabetes—a condition she explores through pharmaceutical, genetic, and immunological lenses. She is particularly interested in cell-based models, gene regulatory networks, and high-tech therapeutic interventions aimed at reversing or halting disease progression. Her passion for stem cell biology and regenerative therapies is reflected in her involvement with mesenchymal stem cell research and the use of exosomes in clinical settings. Beyond diabetes, she has contributed to projects involving autoimmune disorders, fertility research, cancer diagnostics, and infectious diseases like COVID-19. Her work also explores epigenetic regulation, as evidenced by a highly cited publication on the role of epigenetics in human diseases. In addition, Dr. Moosavi is eager to integrate new technologies into her research, including artificial intelligence (AI), next-generation sequencing (NGS), and gene editing techniques. This interdisciplinary approach allows her to not only study disease mechanisms at the molecular level but also develop actionable, personalized treatment strategies. She continuously expands her research portfolio with a strong commitment to innovation and translational impact.

Research Skills

Dr. Moosavi has cultivated a wide array of research skills that span molecular techniques, computational analysis, and laboratory management. She is proficient in essential molecular biology methods including PCR, ELISA, Western blotting, and routine clinical laboratory testing. Her expertise also includes cell culture, particularly in managing regenerative medicine labs, as well as conducting experiments on the apoptotic effects of compounds and stem cell secretome applications. In addition to wet-lab skills, she is experienced in data analysis and literature management using tools like GraphPad Prism, RevMan5, and EndNote. Her training in Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) principles supports her ability to implement and monitor high-quality standards in laboratory settings. Moreover, she is well-versed in risk management using Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), which she has applied to improve safety and operational efficiency in academic laboratories. With intermediate proficiency in English and basic command of German and Azerbaijani, she is also equipped for international collaboration. Altogether, her technical and analytical competencies allow her to conduct research that is both scientifically rigorous and aligned with current regulatory standards.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Azam Moosavi has received several notable recognitions throughout her academic and professional journey. She secured third place nationally in the Ph.D. entrance exam for biochemistry at the University of Tehran, reflecting her strong academic standing. Her contributions to the field of molecular biology and regenerative medicine have been acknowledged at prestigious conferences, including the Best Poster Award at the 17th National and 8th International Congress of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in 2023. Additionally, she was selected as the first presenter in the Young Researchers’ Section at the 15th International & 21st National Congress on Quality Improvement in Clinical Laboratories in 2024. Beyond academic accolades, Dr. Moosavi holds a patent related to lung cancer antibody production using nanopharmaceutical technology, underscoring her innovation in translational research. She also earned third position in the National Industrial Innovation Competition, further recognizing her role in applied scientific development. These honors validate her dedication to excellence, whether in academic research, laboratory innovation, or public health impact. Collectively, these awards demonstrate Dr. Moosavi’s significant contributions to biomedical science and affirm her as a rising leader in the fields of biochemistry and regenerative medicine.

Conclusion

Dr. Azam Moosavi emerges as a well-qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with extensive contributions to biochemistry, regenerative medicine, and clinical laboratory science. Her academic credentials, professional experience, and interdisciplinary research projects collectively demonstrate excellence in both theoretical and applied science. Through her focus on beta-cell regeneration for Type 1 diabetes, Dr. Moosavi has tackled a major public health challenge using innovative and translational approaches. Her record includes numerous peer-reviewed publications, international presentations, patents, and awards, positioning her as a leader in her field. She has also played a key role in education and mentorship, nurturing the next generation of biomedical researchers. With solid research skills, an expanding network of collaborations, and a commitment to continuous learning, Dr. Moosavi has built a career marked by impact, growth, and forward-thinking science. Moving forward, she is poised to make even greater contributions through high-impact research, interdisciplinary teamwork, and international engagement. Her profile exemplifies the qualities that the Best Researcher Award seeks to honor: intellectual rigor, practical innovation, and a drive to improve human health through science.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Beta Cell Regeneration upon Magainin and Growth Hormone Treatment as a Possible Alternative to Insulin Therapy
    Journal: FEBS Open Bio, 2023
    Authors: Azam Moosavi, Razieh Yazdanparast

  2. Human Herpesvirus 6 Infection and Risk of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
    Journal: Intervirology, 2022
    Author: Azam Moosavi

  3. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Epidemiology, Causal Agents and Demographic Characteristics of Onychomycosis in Iran
    Journal: Medical Mycology, 2019
    Author: Azam Moosavi

  4. Environmental Exposure to Endotoxin and Its Health Outcomes: A Systematic Review
    Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, 2019
    Author: Azam Moosavi

  5. The Frequency of Fungi Isolated from the Skin and Hair of Asymptomatic Cats in Rural Area of Meshkin-shahr, Iran
    Journal: Journal de Mycologie Médicale, 2019
    Authors: A. Moosavi, R.D. Ghazvini, K. Ahmadikia, S.J. Hashemi, M. Geramishoar, M. Mohebali, M.S. Yekaninejad, H. Bakhshi, M. Khodabakhsh

  6. The Frequency and Importance of Common α-globin Gene Deletions among β-thalassemia Carriers in an Iranian Population
    Journal: Avicenna Journal of Medical Biotechnology, 2017
    Authors: A. Moosavi, A.M. Ardekani

  7. Role of Epigenetics in Biology and Human Diseases
    Journal: Iranian Biomedical Journal, 2016
    Author: Azam Moosavi

  8. Bioactive Peptides
    Publisher: CRC Press, 2021
    Author: Azam Moosavi

  9. Effect of Vitamin B6 Supplementation on Biochemical Values in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
    Conference: Congress on Quality Improvement in Clinical Laboratories, 2015
    Author: Azam Moosavi

 

Dr. Florence Back | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Florence Back | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Doctorate at University of Lille, France

Florence Back is a distinguished biomaterials scientist and researcher specializing in bioadhesive and smart wound-healing technologies. Based in Strasbourg, France, she has made significant strides in developing innovative materials for medical applications, including hydrogels and electronic patches for therapeutic uses. Florence’s work is underpinned by advanced training in in vivo procedures and applied chemistry, making her well-versed in both the laboratory synthesis of biomaterials and preclinical surgical applications. Her research has been published in reputable journals, highlighting her commitment to advancing the fields of bioengineering and regenerative medicine. Florence’s research integrates expertise across biology, chemistry, and physics, emphasizing both material functionality and patient-centered applications. She has been involved in collaborative research at prestigious institutions, including CNRS Lille and UC Louvain, and is actively expanding her interdisciplinary contributions to wound care, tissue repair, and bioengineering.

Professional Profile

Education

Florence holds a Ph.D. in Biomaterials from UNISTRA Strasbourg, completed in 2022, where she focused on the synthesis and development of bioadhesives based on gelatin and catechol. This work involved extensive research into the formulation, spectroscopic characterization, and rheological analysis of these bioadhesives. Her doctoral studies were preceded by two specialized master’s degrees, both from UNISTRA Strasbourg, in supramolecular and macromolecular chemistry, completed in 2020 and 2019, respectively. Florence’s master’s education covered advanced techniques in organic and polymer synthesis, including the creation of fluorescent molecules and polymers with unique biochemical properties. Her academic journey includes a series of certifications in in vivo procedures from CNRS Lille, where she developed critical surgical skills required for research involving animal models. Florence’s education has been integral in building her comprehensive understanding of biomaterials and in vivo applications, positioning her as a skilled researcher in medical and chemical sciences.

Professional Experience

Florence’s professional experience includes postdoctoral research and engineering roles focused on advancing biomaterial applications in medicine. Currently, she is a postdoctoral researcher at UC Louvain in Belgium, working on the AI-SWEEP-2 project, which involves the synthesis of electronic patches for smart bandages intended for human use. Prior to this, she served as a biomaterials engineer at CNRS Lille, where she contributed to the ANR Gskin project, focusing on synthesizing and characterizing hydrogels doped with extracellular vesicles for diabetic wound healing. From 2020 to 2022, during her Ph.D. at the Dental Faculty of Strasbourg, Florence specialized in the synthesis of bioadhesives based on gelatin and catechol, marking the beginning of her notable contributions to biomaterials science. These roles have allowed her to develop an integrated approach to material synthesis, characterization, and biological application, emphasizing her commitment to innovation in therapeutic and regenerative materials.

Research Interests

Florence’s research interests center on biomaterials, bioadhesives, and smart wound-healing technologies. Her primary focus is the development and synthesis of bioadhesive hydrogels, which hold promise in tissue repair and regenerative medicine. Additionally, her work extends to smart bandages, integrating electronic patches for wound monitoring and therapeutic delivery, aimed at improving patient outcomes in wound care. She is also interested in the extraction and application of extracellular vesicles in biomaterials, with specific attention to their role in promoting cellular viability and tissue regeneration. Florence’s research leverages a multidisciplinary approach, combining chemistry, biology, and materials science to create innovative solutions that bridge the gap between synthetic materials and biological functions. Her commitment to research that addresses clinical challenges underscores her dedication to advancing biomaterials for direct medical applications.

Research Skills

Florence’s research skills encompass a wide range of laboratory and analytical techniques, particularly in chemistry, biology, and materials science. She is proficient in organic and polymer synthesis, including gel formulation and the development of bioadhesive materials from gelatin, chitosan, and silk hydrogels. Her technical skills include chromatography, spectroscopy (NMR, IR, UV-Vis), and nanoparticle tracking analysis, which she applies in the characterization of synthesized materials. Florence is also skilled in in vivo procedures, certified for surgeries and techniques on various animal models, such as vascular catheterization, cerebral ischemia, and renal grafting. Additionally, her experience extends to cell culture, viability testing, and supervising research protocols. Florence’s ability to conduct comprehensive material characterization combined with her surgical training in vivo highlights her versatility and readiness to bridge laboratory research with applied medical sciences.

Awards and Honors

Florence has achieved various recognitions that reflect her dedication to research excellence in biomaterials. Her doctoral research at UNISTRA Strasbourg earned her acclaim for creating bioadhesive formulations with potential applications in tissue engineering and wound care. Her work has been published in notable journals, including Frontiers in Materials and Gels, indicating her research’s value to the academic and clinical communities. Florence’s role in collaborative projects, such as the ANR Gskin and AI-SWEEP-2, highlights her contributions to interdisciplinary research initiatives aimed at developing innovative therapeutic technologies. Additionally, her certifications in in vivo procedures from CNRS Lille are a testament to her commitment to ethical and skillful research practices. Florence’s career trajectory, marked by research achievements and collaborative contributions, positions her as a promising candidate for awards in scientific innovation and applied biomaterials.

Conclusion

Florence Back demonstrates strong candidacy for a “Best Researcher Award” due to her advanced technical skills in biomaterials, substantial in vivo training, and impactful research in bioadhesives and smart bandage technologies. By addressing minor language skills and pursuing independent research initiatives, she could amplify her contributions and influence in the field.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Optimization of the Elasticity and Adhesion of Catechol- or Dopamine-Loaded Gelatin Gels under Oxidative Conditions
    • Authors: F. Back, E. Mathieu, C. Betscha, Y. Arntz, V. Ball
    • Journal: Gels
    • Year: 2022
    • Volume & Issue: 8(4), Article 210
    • Citations: 7
    • Open Access: Yes
  2. Influence of the NaIO₄ Concentration on the Gelation and the Adhesive Strength of Pyrocatechol/Pyrogallol Containing Gelatin Hydrogels
    • Authors: F. Back, V. Ball, Y. Arntz
    • Journal: Frontiers in Materials
    • Year: 2021
    • Volume & Article: 8, Article 671451
    • Citations: 4
    • Open Access: Yes