Thierry Ngouana Kammalac | Medical Mycology | Best Research Article Award

Published on by Research Awards

Dr. Thierry Ngouana Kammalac | Medical Mycology | Best Research Article Award

Laboratoire Sion| Cameroon

Dr. Ngouana Kammalac Thierry is an accomplished Cameroonian biochemist and medical mycologist with extensive experience in microbial diagnostics, infectious disease research, and biotechnology innovation. He holds a PhD in Biochemistry and Health Sciences (2014), jointly awarded by the University of Montpellier in France and the University of Yaoundé I in Cameroon, where his doctoral work focused on the genetic diversity of Cryptococcus and Candida isolates in HIV-positive patients and their susceptibility to antifungal therapies and medicinal plant extracts. He also holds a Master’s degree in Biochemistry (2009) from the University of Yaoundé I. Dr. Ngouana has built an exceptional career at the intersection of laboratory science, diagnostic technology, and academic instruction. As Director of Zion Biomedical Corporation since 2023, he leads the development and large-scale production of innovative biomedical products, including lateral flow immunochromatographic diagnostic tests, microbial culture media, and specialized staining dyes, contributing to improved diagnostic capacities in the region. Since 2016, he has also served as Director of Zion Medical Laboratory, where he oversees scientific development, clinical diagnostics, and antimicrobial resistance surveillance. His laboratory plays a crucial role in cryptococcal meningitis diagnosis among HIV-infected patients, the establishment of microbial standard operating procedures (SOPs), and the strengthening of Cameroon’s diagnostic infrastructure. Alongside his laboratory leadership, Dr. Ngouana has been an associate lecturer at the Catholic University and the Protestant University of Central Africa since 2015, teaching courses in medical mycology, biochemistry, and bacteriology. He has a strong publication record, contributing to high-impact research on Candida genetic diversity, antifungal resistance, pathogenic yeast epidemiology, and bioactive compounds from medicinal plants. His work has appeared in reputable journals such as Brazilian Journal of Microbiology, American Journal of Microbiological Research, Mycoses, Journal de Mycologie Médicale, Medical Mycology, and Journal of Medical Microbiology. Notable contributions include studies revealing novel genotypes of Candida species, antifungal susceptibility patterns in Africa and Europe, and plant-derived compounds with potent antifungal activity. Dr. Ngouana’s expertise spans molecular diagnostics, PCR, microscopy, microbial culture, infection control, and data analysis, supported by strong research methodology and teamwork competencies. He is an active member of the FAILSAFE Medical Mycology Network, the Cameroonian Society of Microbiology, and the French Society of Medical Mycology, reflecting his engagement in global scientific collaboration and capacity building in medical mycology.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Ngouana, T. K., Dougue, A. N., Ngouana, V., Tsayem, R. F., Mahamat, Y. H., Boyom, F. F., & Ranque, S. (2025). Vulvo-vaginal candidiasis at the Zion Clinical Laboratory (Yaounde-Cameroon): Risk factors, species distribution and antifungal susceptibility testing. Journal of Medical Mycology,

Kountchou, C. L., Kabtani, J., Dougue, A. N., Nangwat, C., Ekpo, A. I., Ngonde, M. C., Mogo, C. B., Dzoyem, J. P., Ranque, S., & Ngouana, T. K. (2025). Candida krusei (Pichia kudriavzevii) multilocus sequence typing and antifungal susceptibility profile in Cameroon. Brazilian Journal of Microbiology.

Raja Sanjeev Kumar Nakka | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Research Awards

Mr. Raja Sanjeev Kumar Nakka | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT and Harvard | United States

Mr. Rajasanjeev Kumar Nakka is a highly accomplished software engineer and data analyst with over a decade of experience in computer programming, software development, data analytics, and systems design. His career spans a broad spectrum of domains, including enterprise application development, data management, system optimization, and scientific computing, with hands-on expertise in C#, ASP.NET, Java, SQL, and data-driven web technologies. A results-oriented technologist, he is recognized for his ability to transform complex business requirements into robust, scalable, and efficient software solutions across industries ranging from financial systems to biomedical informatics. Mr. Nakka holds a Master of Science in Computer Science from Kansas State University, USA (2007), and a Bachelor of Technology in Computer Science and Engineering from Acharya Nagarjuna University, India (2005). In addition, he is a Microsoft Certified Professional Developer (MCPD) and a Sun Certified Java Programmer (SCJP), affirming his proficiency in advanced programming paradigms and software engineering principles. His continuous learning ethos is reflected in certifications spanning data science, software testing, machine learning, and cybersecurity, underscoring his commitment to professional growth and technological innovation. Throughout his distinguished career, Mr. Nakka has contributed significantly to several high-impact software projects. At the Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, he currently serves as a Senior Data Analyst, leading the development of the Cellular Immunology Database (CIDB)—a sophisticated data management system integrating genetic, clinical, immunological, and virological datasets to support HIV/AIDS research and vaccine development. His role extends beyond technical development to include project management, computational design, stakeholder engagement, and cross-functional collaboration with leading biomedical researchers. His work has enabled efficient data flow, secure information sharing, and advanced analytical capabilities within one of the world’s foremost medical research institutions. Previously, as a Senior Software Engineer at Confluence (Indecomm Global Services) in Pittsburgh, USA, Mr. Nakka was instrumental in developing and supporting SaaS-enabled financial platforms, including Unity NXT for budgeting, expense management, and fund reporting. His technical leadership in employing ASP.NET MVC, JQuery, Knockout, and CQRS frameworks contributed to enhanced system reliability, scalability, and maintainability. His earlier tenure at CDC Software (India) involved designing and implementing CRM integration systems for Microsoft Office, improving workflow synchronization and user experience for global clients. Mr. Nakka’s early career at CivicPlus (USA) and as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at Kansas State University provided a strong foundation in web architecture, software design, and database engineering, including projects that evaluated J2EE and .NET performance for enterprise web services. His academic and industrial projects have consistently demonstrated strong analytical thinking, attention to quality, and a balance between innovation and practical implementation. Driven by curiosity, precision, and innovation, Mr. Rajasanjeev Kumar Nakka continues to advance the integration of data science, software engineering, and computational intelligence, empowering institutions and industries to harness technology for smarter, data-informed decision-making and impactful digital transformation.

Profiles: Orcid |  Google Scholar 

Featured Publications

Lampou, M., Trull, E. C., Warren, H. M., Ghebremichael, M. S., Nakka, R., Floyd, D. J., et al. (2025). Clinical utility of plasma microbial cell-free DNA surveillance in neutropenic patients with acute myeloid leukemia undergoing outpatient chemotherapy: A case series. Diagnostics, 15(13), 1715. https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15131715

Gandla, S., Nakka, R., Khan, R. A., Salboukh, F., & Ghebremichael, M. (2025). The association between syphilis infection and HIV acquisition and HIV disease progression in Sub-Saharan Africa. Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, 10(3), 65. https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed10030065

Gandla, S., Nakka, R., Khan, R. A., Bose, E., & Ghebremichael, M. (2025). Biological and social predictors of HIV-1 RNA viral suppression in ART treated PWLH in Sub-Saharan Africa. Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, 10(1), 24. https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed10010024

Irie, W. C., Mahone, A., Nakka, R., & Ghebremichael, M. (2023). Factors associated with comfort discussing PrEP with healthcare providers among Black cisgender women. Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, 8(9), 436. https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed8090436

Irie, W., Mahone, A., Nakka, R., & Ghebremichael, M. (2023). Confidence in ability to communicate with sexual partners about PrEP among Black cisgender women. AIDS Education and Prevention, 35(5), 333–346. https://doi.org/10.1521/aeap.2023.35.5.333

Vasudeva, M., Nakka, R., Stock, S., & Ghebremichael, M. (2022). Associations between awareness of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and prevalence of STIs among Sub-Saharan African men and women. Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, 7(8), 147. https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed7080147

Soumitra Moulick | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award | 13395

Published on by Research Awards

Mr. Soumitra Moulick | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Soumitra Moulick, TCG Lifesciences Pvt. Ltd., India

Mr. Soumitra Moulick, Lead Scientist at TCG Lifesciences Pvt. Ltd., brings over 18 years of expertise in drug discovery research, with impactful contributions in antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer therapeutics. Currently pursuing a PhD at NIT Raipur, he has published peer-reviewed papers and is engaged in an ICMR-funded project on antibiotic-resistant E. coli. His work has supported over 15 global collaborations with pharmaceutical leaders, earning recognition including a best poster award at IIIT Allahabad. His consistent commitment to innovation and translational science underscores his suitability for the Best Researcher Award.

Profile

Scopus

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Soumitra Moulick embarked on his academic journey with a Master’s degree from a reputed Indian university, laying a strong foundation in life sciences and pharmacological research. From the beginning, his keen interest in drug discovery and therapeutic development drove him to pursue in-depth studies in microbiology, pharmacology, and biochemistry. His academic dedication was further demonstrated when he enrolled in a PhD program at the prestigious National Institute of Technology (NIT), Raipur, where he continues to explore advanced research in antibacterial drug discovery. His early education equipped him with a robust scientific mindset and set the stage for a dynamic career in the pharmaceutical sector.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Mr. Moulick has devoted over 18 years of his professional life to TCG Lifesciences Pvt. Ltd., Kolkata, one of India’s leading Contract Research Organizations (CROs). Rising through the ranks, he currently serves as a Lead Scientist in the In-vitro Pharmacology Department. In this role, he has led and collaborated on more than 15 drug discovery projects, targeting diseases in the therapeutic areas of oncology, infectious diseases, and inflammation.

His work spans protocol development, in-vitro screening, target validation, and assay optimization. Mr. Moulick has worked closely with world-renowned pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer, Roche, Takeda, Grunenthal, MMV, and DNDi, showcasing his ability to integrate scientific rigor with industry demands. His career at TCG Lifesciences stands as a testament to his commitment, technical excellence, and leadership in translational research.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Mr. Moulick’s primary research interests lie in antimicrobial resistance (AMR), anti-inflammatory therapeutics, and oncology drug discovery. His doctoral research focuses on antibiotic-resistant Escherichia coli, a major causative agent of urinary tract infections. This work is supported by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) under Grant No. DDR/IIRP23/0569.

He has already published two peer-reviewed research articles in reputed journals such as Microbial Drug Resistance and Microbial Pathogenesis. Despite the limitations on publishing often faced in CRO environments, Mr. Moulick has successfully balanced industry confidentiality with academic contribution. His scientific research emphasizes innovation, with a focus on identifying novel molecular targets, validating high-throughput screening methodologies, and exploring natural and synthetic compound libraries for drug efficacy.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Mr. Moulick’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. His poster presentation at the International Webinar cum Workshop on Recent Developments in Applied Biotechnology (organized by IIIT Allahabad) was honored with a Best Poster Award, reflecting the academic community’s recognition of his impactful research.

One of his recent publications received a provisional selection for the “Best Researcher Award”, further validating the significance and originality of his scientific output. In addition to this, he is currently in the process of contributing a book chapter, and he has one patent under review, indicating his continued engagement in knowledge creation and technology transfer.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Over nearly two decades, Mr. Moulick has significantly influenced both industry and academic research through his extensive project experience and collaborative spirit. His ability to work with global pharmaceutical giants has not only enhanced the credibility of Indian CROs but also brought innovative therapeutic candidates closer to clinical application.

His research on antibiotic resistance has real-world implications, particularly in the context of rising multidrug-resistant infections. By identifying alternative treatment strategies and molecular targets, Mr. Moulick’s work contributes meaningfully to public health and global medicine. His influence extends across laboratories, boardrooms, and academic institutions, as he frequently engages in collaborative projects that bridge academia and industry.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Mr. Moulick is poised to further strengthen his contributions to drug discovery and biomedical innovation. His future endeavors include completing his PhD with a high-impact third publication, finalizing his patent application, and authoring a comprehensive book chapter that can serve as a resource for young researchers and professionals.

He aims to mentor early-career scientists in preclinical research and build a legacy of scientific excellence, collaboration, and integrity. With a vision to drive innovative, affordable, and accessible therapeutics, Mr. Moulick is committed to being a catalyst for change in the Indian and global pharmaceutical landscape.

His unique blend of academic rigor, industrial experience, and collaborative mindset makes him a valuable contributor to the scientific community, and his nomination for the Best Researcher Award is both timely and well-deserved.

Publication Top Notes

Bactericidal action of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) extract against Escherichia coli through synergistic modulation of the AcrAB-TolC efflux pump and inhibition of peptidoglycan synthesis: In vitro and in silico approaches

Author: S., Moulick, Soumitra, D.N., Roy, Dijendra Nath

Journal: Microbial Pathogenesis

Year: 2025

Bioflavonoid Baicalein Modulates Tetracycline Resistance by Inhibiting Efflux Pump in Staphylococcus aureus

Author: Soumitra Moulick and Dijendra Nath Roy

Journal: Microbial Drug Resistance

Year: 2024

Isabel Rodríguez Sánchez | Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award | 13387

Published on by Research Awards

Assoc Prof Dr. Isabel Rodríguez Sánchez | Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award 

Assoc Prof Dr. Isabel Rodríguez Sánchez, Clínico San Carlos University Hospital, Spain

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Isabel Rodríguez Sánchez is a specialist in Geriatrics at Clínico San Carlos University Hospital in Madrid, Spain. She holds a PhD in Epidemiology and Public Health and serves as an associate professor at the Complutense University of Madrid. Her research focuses on frailty, chronic disease, and functional impairment in older adults, with over 25 scientific publications, many in high-impact journals. Dr. Rodríguez Sánchez also contributes to national health policy as a member of the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Medical Devices.

Profile

Orcid

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Isabel Rodríguez Sánchez began her academic journey with a strong foundation in medicine, graduating from the Universidad Complutense de Madrid in 2014. Her passion for improving the lives of older adults through evidence-based medical practice guided her specialization in Geriatrics, a field she pursued through rigorous training at the Hospital Universitario La Paz, one of Spain’s most reputable institutions for medical education. Her commitment to research and academic excellence was further solidified with the completion of a PhD in Epidemiology and Public Health from the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid in 2021. Her doctoral thesis, “Dolor crónico, deterioro funcional y enfermedad cardiovascular en las personas mayores,” earned the highest distinction: Cum Laude with an Extraordinary Doctorate Award.

🩺 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Rodríguez Sánchez has accumulated a wealth of clinical experience across several prestigious Spanish institutions. She began her medical career as a Médico Interno Residente (MIR) in Geriatrics from 2015 to 2019 at Hospital Universitario La Paz. This formative period laid the groundwork for her deep understanding of aging, frailty, and complex chronic conditions in older adults.

From 2019 to 2020, she worked as a Geriatrics Specialist at the Hospital de Navarra and concurrently served as a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Navarra, mentoring young medical students in geriatric medicine. Since 2020, she has held the position of Facultativo Especialista de Área (Consultant Geriatrician) at the Hospital Clínico San Carlos in Madrid, one of Spain’s leading academic hospitals.

In addition to her clinical roles, she was appointed as a Member of the Committee for the Safety of Medicines for Human Use at the Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Devices (AEMPS) in 2024, demonstrating her engagement with national health governance and patient safety.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Rodríguez Sánchez’s research has made significant contributions to the field of aging, particularly in the study of frailty, sarcopenia, chronic diseases, and functional impairment. She has authored or co-authored 25 scientific publications, with 13 published in top-tier Q1 journals, and accumulated over 1300 citations.

Her most notable work includes studies on functional decline following COVID-19 hospitalization in the elderly, multimorbidity in older adults, and the integration of technology for assessing pain and sarcopenia. She is also a co-author of seven book chapters, both in Spanish and international publications, further solidifying her expertise in Geriatrics.

Her research is interdisciplinary, often incorporating biomarkers, imaging (e.g., ultrasound for muscle mass), and digital health tools to enhance diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of geriatric syndromes.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Rodríguez Sánchez has earned numerous awards and recognitions that underscore her contributions to geriatric medicine. In 2022, she received the “Best Abstract – ECGI Category (Early-Career Geriatricians Initiative) Stefania Maggi Award” at the European Geriatric Medicine Society Congress in London. Her award-winning study focused on functional impairment in individuals aged 80+ following COVID-19 hospitalization—a prospective study that she both designed and led.

She has also been invited to serve as a peer reviewer for high-impact international journals, such as Aging Research Reviews, Frontiers, Environmental Research, and the Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, reflecting her respected position in the global research community.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Beyond her publications, Dr. Rodríguez Sánchez actively influences healthcare practice and policy through project evaluations for national and international research funding bodies. Her involvement ensures that projects related to frailty, sarcopenia, post-stroke balance evaluation, and chronic pain management using technological solutions are rigorously assessed and guided by clinical relevance and scientific rigor.

Her dual roles in both clinical practice and academic teaching—as a professor at the Complutense University of Madrid since 2022—enable her to shape the next generation of healthcare professionals. She teaches across multiple programs, including Medicine, Nutrition, and the Master’s in Nutrigenetics, promoting an integrated approach to geriatric care.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Isabel Rodríguez Sánchez stands out as a dynamic physician-researcher whose work bridges the gap between science, clinical care, and policy. Her dedication to improving health outcomes for older adults, especially the most vulnerable, positions her as a future leader in geriatric innovation.

Looking forward, she is expected to continue advancing multidimensional assessment tools, precision interventions for frailty and sarcopenia, and policy-oriented research that influences national and European standards of care for the elderly.

Her legacy is being built not only on her academic achievements and clinical expertise but also on her role as a mentor, educator, and advocate for dignified and effective aging care. 🌱

Publication Top Notes

Effects of Malnutrition on the Incidence and Worsening of Frailty in Community-Dwelling Older Adults with Pain

Contributors: Isabel Rodriguez; Jose Antonio Carnicero; Alejandro Álvarez-Bustos; Francisco José García-García; Leocadio Rodríguez-Mañas; Helio
Coelho-Junior
Journal: Nutrients
Year: 2025

Research on Frailty: Where We Stand and Where We Need to Go

Contributors: Rodríguez-Mañas, L.; Rodriguez-Sánchez, I.
Journal: American Medical Directors Association
Year: 2021

Diagnostic Value of Mid-Thigh and Mid-Calf Bone, Muscle, and Fat Mass in Osteosarcopenia: A Pilot Study

Contributors: Bani Hassan, E.; Phu, S.; Vogrin, S.; Escobedo Terrones, G.; Pérez, X.; Rodriguez-Sanchez, I.; Duque, G.
Journal: Calcified Tissue International
Year: 2019