Bensiradj Nour El Houda | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Bensiradj Nour El Houda | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Bensiradj Nour El Houda | ENS Kouba | Algeria

Dr. Bensiradj Nour El Houda is an Associate Professor at the Higher Normal School (ENS) Kouba, Algeria, and a researcher at the Computational and Photonic Theoretical Chemistry Laboratory, USTHB. She holds a Magister (2010), a Doctorate in Theoretical and Computational Chemistry (2017), and a University Accreditation (2021). Her research focuses on computational chemistry, electronic spectroscopy, organometallic complexes, renewable energies, and photovoltaic materials (ZIFs). She has supervised numerous Master’s theses, coordinated national research projects, and published extensively in high-impact international journals. Dr. Bensiradj has also participated in international collaborations and conferences across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, contributing significantly to advancing theoretical and applied chemistry.

Author Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Bensiradj Nour El Houda began her academic journey with an early passion for chemistry, physics, and computational sciences, which shaped her career path in higher education and advanced research. She pursued her Magister degree in Chemistry at the University of Science and Technology Houari Boumediene (USTHB) in 2010, specializing in theoretical and computational chemistry. Her thesis, “Study of Electron Spectroscopy Applied to Chemical Systems: ZnTe and its Ions”, reflected her early interest in spectroscopic analysis and computational modeling. The thesis was supervised by Prof. O. Ouamerali and awarded with a “Very Good” distinction, highlighting her excellence at the initial stages of her career.

Building upon this foundation, Dr. Bensiradj continued to explore the intersection of theoretical chemistry and spectroscopy, completing her Doctorate in Science in 2017 at USTHB. Her doctoral thesis, “Theoretical Study of Excited States and Electronic Spectroscopy of Chemical and Biological Systems”, marked a significant step in her scholarly journey, earning a “Very Honorable” mention. In 2021, she achieved University Accreditation with honors, a milestone that formally recognized her capacity to conduct independent research and mentor emerging scholars.

Experience

Dr. Bensiradj’s professional career is deeply tied to her dual roles as an academic educator and researcher. She began as an Assistant Teacher at ENS Kouba in 2013, later advancing to Lecturer (2017) and subsequently to Associate Professor (2021). Over the years, she has taught a wide spectrum of subjects, including quantum chemistry, atomic and molecular structure, chemical equilibrium, analytical chemistry, and computational methods at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Her teaching style blends theoretical rigor with applied perspectives, bridging the gap between computational simulations and real-world chemical systems.

In parallel, she has guided numerous Master’s theses on topics ranging from theoretical studies of molecular clusters, natural product chemistry, spectroscopy of transition metal complexes, environmental chemistry, and deep learning applications in chemical analysis. This supervision reflects her ability to integrate theoretical models with experimental validation, preparing future researchers with interdisciplinary expertise.

Research Focus

Dr. Bensiradj Nour El Houda’s research is firmly anchored in computational and photonic theoretical chemistry, with her work spanning a diverse range of interconnected themes. She specializes in electronic spectroscopy and advanced quantum chemistry methods such as HF, DFT, and TDDFT, applying these approaches to investigate the structure and reactivity of organic, metallic, and organometallic compounds. A significant aspect of her research also centers on the modeling of photovoltaic materials and renewable energy applications, with a particular emphasis on Zeolitic-Imidazolate Frameworks (ZIFs) for gas adsorption, storage, and energy solutions. Additionally, she has contributed to the development of computational codes that optimize chemical modeling, enhancing both accuracy and efficiency in theoretical simulations. Beyond these areas, Dr. Bensiradj has actively engaged in environmental chemistry, exploring innovative methods for heavy metal removal, wastewater treatment, and green chemistry applications, thereby linking computational studies with real-world environmental sustainability.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Bensiradj’s academic excellence has been consistently acknowledged. She earned distinctions in both her Magister and Doctoral degrees, culminating in a University Accreditation with Honors in 2021. She has been entrusted with national research projects, including CNEPRU and PRFU projects focused on hydrogen storage, non-linear optics, and computational modeling of organometallic systems.

Her international collaborations with CSIC Madrid (Spain) and Yarmouk University (Jordan) further strengthened her recognition as a scholar with cross-border research impact. She has also co-authored interdisciplinary studies combining experimental and theoretical approaches, enhancing her profile as a versatile researcher.

Impact and Influence

Through her teaching, mentorship, and research, Dr. Bensiradj has had a lasting influence on the Algerian and global scientific community. She has trained a new generation of chemists in theoretical and computational methods, contributing to the advancement of quantum chemistry education in Algeria. Her research on renewable energies, spectroscopy, and water treatment addresses pressing global challenges, linking academic insights with sustainable solutions.

Her interdisciplinary work, merging computational simulations, spectroscopy, environmental chemistry, and machine learning, has inspired both colleagues and students to adopt innovative approaches in chemical research. Moreover, her publications continue to be cited internationally, amplifying Algeria’s scientific visibility in theoretical chemistry.

Publications 

‘DFT studies of single and multiple molecular adsorption of CH4,SF6 and H2O in Zeolitic-Imidazolate Framework.

Author: N.Bensiradj, V.Timon, R.Boussessi,S.Dalbouha and ML.senent
Journal: Inorganica Chimica Acta
Year: 2019

”Phytochemical Study and Antibacterial Effects of Fraxinus angustifolia Vahl (Algeria): Experimental and Computational Investigations”.

Author:N.Zouaghi, N.Bensiradj, C.Cavaleiro, B.Nadjemi ,and M. trari
Journal: Waste and Biomass Valorization
Year: 2020

Newly Streptomyces-Induced Rabelomycin after Specific Amino Acid Supplementations: Experimental and Computational Investigations of Reactivities.

Author:Samira Tata, Nour El Houda Bensiradj, Amine Yekkour, Selma Snini, Atika Meklat & Noureddine Bouras
Journal: Waste and Biomass Valorization
Year: 2024

Conclusion

Dr. Bensiradj stands as a remarkable figure in the realm of computational and photonic theoretical chemistry, seamlessly merging fundamental quantum principles with applied environmental and energy-focused research. Her groundbreaking studies on spectroscopy, quantum chemistry methods, renewable energy systems, and sustainable environmental practices reflect both scientific depth and societal relevance. With an impressive record of publications, international collaborations, and active participation in global conferences, she continues to inspire the academic community while addressing some of the most pressing challenges of our time. Her work not only enriches scientific knowledge but also paves the way for future innovations in clean energy, green chemistry, and advanced computational modeling—ensuring that her contributions will leave a lasting legacy for generations of researchers to come.

Pratiksha Kshirsagar | Pre-clinical pharmacology | Best Researcher Award | 13450

Ms. Pratiksha Kshirsagar | Pre-clinical pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Pratiksha Kshirsagar, University of Nebraska Medical Center, United States

Ms. Pratiksha Kshirsagar is a dedicated pharmaceutical scientist currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), USA. With strong academic credentials and hands-on research experience in both India and the U.S., she specializes in bioanalytical method development, preclinical pharmacokinetics, and drug delivery systems. Her work includes the development and validation of LC-MS/MS methods and conducting in vitro and in vivo DMPK studies for novel therapeutics targeting medulloblastoma. She has co-authored several peer-reviewed publications and presented her findings at national and international conferences. Ms. Kshirsagar is also a recipient of the UNMC Dean of Graduate Studies Conference Attendance Award and remains committed to advancing pharmaceutical research and translational drug development.

Profile

ORCID

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Pratiksha Kshirsagar’s academic journey is marked by consistent dedication and a keen interest in pharmaceutical sciences. Her educational foundation was laid at Savitribai Phule Pune University, where she earned both her Bachelor of Pharmacy (2016–2020) with an SGPA of 7.7/10 and a Master of Pharmacy in Pharmaceutics (2020–2022), graduating with distinction (SGPA: 8.96/10). These formative years laid the groundwork for her strong research acumen and laboratory skills. Keen to explore further, she transitioned to the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), USA, where she pursued a Master of Pharmaceutical Sciences (2022–2024). Her academic growth culminated in her enrollment in the Ph.D. program in Pharmaceutical Sciences (2024–2029). With a GPA of 3.6/4.0, her progress has been both steady and impressive. Simultaneously, she earned a Certificate in Applied Biostatistics with a perfect GPA of 4.0/4.0, showcasing her commitment to interdisciplinary learning and data-driven research.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Pratiksha’s professional experience is deeply intertwined with her academic path, reflecting a rare blend of scholarly rigor and hands-on application. At UNMC, under the mentorship of Dr. Daryl J. Murry, she has worked extensively as a graduate research assistant and student researcher, contributing to the development and validation of LC-MS/MS bioanalytical methods for novel small molecules and RIPTACs. Her earlier professional journey in India involved impactful research under Dr. Smita S. Pimple, where she explored micro-emulsions using essential oils and carrier oils for skincare applications. This early exposure to formulation science, coupled with analytical chemistry, gave her a solid foundation in pharmaceutics and laboratory research.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Pratiksha’s primary research focus lies in drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics (DMPK), with an emphasis on preclinical evaluation of novel therapeutic agents. Her notable contributions include the in-depth pharmacokinetic analysis of EPZ015666 and JNJ-64619178 for medulloblastoma treatment, reflecting her role in advancing pediatric cancer therapy.

Her technical expertise spans several key areas:

  • LC-MS/MS bioanalytical method development

  • In-vitro studies like metabolic stability, protein binding, and drug transporter assays

  • In-vivo animal studies, including oral/IV dosing and tissue distribution

  • Use of Phoenix WinNonlin, GraphPad Prism, and other analytical tools for pharmacokinetic modeling

Moreover, she contributed to the design, characterization, and stability testing of advanced nano drug delivery systems such as S-SNEDDS (Solid Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System), which demonstrates her interdisciplinary knowledge.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Pratiksha’s dedication has earned her notable recognition throughout her academic and research journey. She was awarded the UNMC Dean of Graduate Studies Conference Attendance Award in 2023, underscoring her academic excellence and potential for contribution at scientific forums.

She actively participated in esteemed conferences such as:

  • American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS), Oct 2023

  • UNMC College of Pharmacy Research Day, May 2023

  • CHRI Pediatric Research Forum, May 2023

In earlier academic years, she was involved in state and national level conferences and poster competitions, including the Medical Coding & E-Poster Competition (2020) and a State Level Seminar on Natural Products Research (2018).

🌍 Impact and Influence

Pratiksha’s research holds real-world significance. Her work on small molecule therapeutics for medulloblastoma contributes to the body of knowledge addressing rare pediatric brain cancers, potentially guiding future clinical interventions. Her cross-functional approach—merging analytical chemistry, pharmacology, and pharmaceutical formulation—makes her an invaluable contributor to translational medicine. She has also co-authored several scholarly publications and book chapters on nanotechnology, drug delivery, and antiviral drug challenges, reinforcing her growing influence in the academic community. These contributions are cited in peer-reviewed journals and academic textbooks, evidencing her thought leadership.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

As Pratiksha continues her Ph.D. journey, her trajectory suggests a future as a leading scientist in pharmaceutical research and drug development. Her interests align with solving complex challenges in drug delivery, pharmacokinetics, and personalized medicine. Looking ahead, she aims to bridge the gap between bench-side research and bedside applications, translating scientific breakthroughs into therapeutic realities. Whether in academia, industry, or clinical collaborations, her vision is clear: to contribute meaningfully to global health innovation.

📄 Publication Top Notes

Crossing the Blood–Brain Barrier: Innovations in Receptor- and Transporter-Mediated Transcytosis Strategies

Contributors: Ling Ding; Pratiksha Kshirsagar; Prachi Agrawal; Daryl J. Murry

Journal: Pharmaceutics

Year: 2025

Preparation and Characterization of Advanced Nano medicine For Malaria: Box Behnken Design Approach

Contributors: Anuradha G. More; Parag R. Potbhare; Padmaja S. Kore; Praveen D. Chaudhari; Pratiksha U. Kshirsagar; Radhika R. Baheti; Surbhi C. Gupta

Journal: International Journal of Life Science and Pharma Research

Year: 2022