Roman Jerala | Synthetic Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Roman Jerala | Synthetic Biology | Best Researcher Award

Head of department at National Institute of Chemistry, Slovenia.

Dr. Roman Jerala is a distinguished researcher and academic with profound expertise in synthetic biology and molecular biology. As Head of the Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology at the National Institute of Chemistry in Ljubljana since 2002, and as a Full Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Ljubljana since 2010, he has made significant contributions to these fields. Dr. Jerala is renowned for his pioneering work in protein engineering, particularly in developing coiled-coil protein origami structures, and for advancing molecular modeling and computational biology techniques. His research spans diverse areas including structural biology, protein-protein interactions, and cellular signaling, critical for innovations in gene and cell therapy. With over 230 publications and numerous awards, including an ERC Advanced Grant and memberships in prestigious scientific societies, Dr. Jerala’s leadership and expertise continue to drive advancements at the interface of biology and technology, making profound impacts on the understanding and application of biological systems.

Professional Profiles:

Education 🎓

Prof. Dr. Roman Jerala is a distinguished researcher and academic with extensive expertise in biochemistry and molecular biology. He earned his Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the Jožef Stefan Institute (JSI) in Ljubljana, Slovenia, in 1993. Prior to this, he completed his BSc in Chemistry at the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia, in 1988. These educational achievements laid the groundwork for his illustrious career focused on synthetic biology and immunology. Currently serving as the Head of the Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology at the National Institute of Chemistry (NIC) in Ljubljana, and as a Full Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Ljubljana, Prof. Jerala continues to lead groundbreaking research initiatives and contribute significantly to the field through his innovative work in protein design and molecular regulation.

Professional Experience

Dr. Roman Jerala occupies pivotal roles in Slovenia’s academic and research sectors. Since 2002, he has served as the Head of the Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology at the National Institute of Chemistry (NIC) in Ljubljana. In this capacity, Dr. Jerala spearheads innovative research endeavors, particularly in synthetic biology and immunological studies, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery. Concurrently, since 2010, he has held the position of Full Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Ljubljana. Here, he plays a crucial role in shaping the next generation of scientists, imparting knowledge, and guiding students in groundbreaking research pursuits in molecular biology. Dr. Jerala’s dual leadership roles underscore his profound impact on academia, where his research and educational contributions continue to influence the fields of synthetic biology and molecular biology, both nationally and internationally. His work exemplifies a dedication to advancing scientific understanding and application in complex biological systems.

Research Interest

Dr. Roman Jerala’s research interests span across synthetic biology, molecular immunology, and biochemistry, focusing on innovative approaches to biological systems and their applications. He explores the design and construction of novel biomolecular tools and systems, particularly in the realm of synthetic biology, aiming to engineer biological entities for therapeutic and biotechnological purposes. His work includes the development of protein-based nanomaterials, such as coiled-coil protein origami, and the design of synthetic gene circuits for controlling cellular processes. Dr. Jerala’s research also delves into molecular immunology, investigating immune responses and developing strategies for immunotherapy. His interdisciplinary approach integrates biochemistry, molecular biology, and computational modeling to address fundamental questions in biology and to create new technologies with potential clinical applications.

Award and Honors

Dr. Roman Jerala, a distinguished scientist, holds key positions in academia and research. As Head of the Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology at the National Institute of Chemistry (NIC) in Ljubljana since 2002, and as a Full Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Ljubljana since 2010, he exemplifies leadership in advancing scientific frontiers. His research interests span synthetic biology, molecular immunology, and biochemistry, focusing on innovative approaches like coiled-coil protein origami and mammalian synthetic biology tools. Dr. Jerala’s contributions have garnered significant recognition, including an ERC Advanced Grant in 2018, the Datta Prize by FEBS in 2021, and election to prestigious bodies like the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts and EMBO. His achievements extend to numerous accolades from international forums and his role in fostering scientific advancements through groundbreaking research and leadership in scientific societies and editorial boards, highlighting his profound impact on the field of molecular biology and beyond.

Research Skills

Dr. Roman Jerala possesses advanced research skills honed through decades of pioneering work in molecular biology and synthetic biology. His expertise includes protein engineering, particularly in the design and construction of coiled-coil protein origami structures. He is adept in structural biology techniques such as SAXS and EM for protein characterization, as well as high-resolution crystallography. Dr. Jerala’s research involves extensive use of molecular modeling and computational biology to design novel protein assemblies and regulatory systems. He is proficient in cellular and molecular techniques for studying protein-protein interactions and cellular signaling pathways, crucial for his developments in mammalian synthetic biology. His interdisciplinary approach integrates principles from bioinformatics, biophysics, and chemistry, facilitating the creation of innovative tools for gene and cell therapy applications. Dr. Jerala’s research skills are underscored by his prolific publication record and extensive collaborations with leading international researchers, reflecting his leadership in advancing the frontiers of biological sciences through cutting-edge research methodologies.

Publications

  1. Mechanism of endosomal TLR inhibition by antimalarial drugs and imidazoquinolines
    • Authors: A Kužnik, M Benčina, U Švajger, M Jeras, B Rozman, R Jerala
    • Year: 2011
    • Citations: 683
  2. The refined 2.4 AX‐ray crystal structure of recombinant human stefin B in complex with the cysteine proteinase papain: a novel type of proteinase inhibitor interaction
    • Authors: MT Stubbs, B Laber, W Bode, R Huber, R Jerala, B Lenarcic, V Turk
    • Year: 1990
    • Citations: 599
  3. Characterization of quercetin binding site on DNA gyrase
    • Authors: A Plaper, M Golob, I Hafner, M Oblak, T Šolmajer, R Jerala
    • Year: 2003
    • Citations: 422
  4. Structural biology of the LPS recognition
    • Author: R Jerala
    • Year: 2007
    • Citations: 413
  5. Design of a single-chain polypeptide tetrahedron assembled from coiled-coil segments
    • Authors: H Gradišar, S Božič, T Doles, D Vengust, I Hafner-Bratkovič, A Mertelj, R Jerala
    • Year: 2013
    • Citations: 347
  6. Similarities and Specificities of Fungal Keratinolytic Proteases: Comparison of Keratinases of Paecilomyces marquandii and Doratomyces microsporus to Some …
    • Authors: H Gradišar, J Friedrich, I Krizaj, R Jerala
    • Year: 2005
    • Citations: 315
  7. Green tea catechins inhibit bacterial DNA gyrase by interaction with its ATP binding site
    • Authors: H Gradišar, P Pristovšek, A Plaper, R Jerala
    • Year: 2007
    • Citations: 305
  8. DNA-guided assembly of biosynthetic pathways promotes improved catalytic efficiency
    • Authors: RJ Conrado, GC Wu, JT Boock, H Xu, SY Chen, T Lebar, J Turnšek, R Jerala
    • Year: 2012
    • Citations: 301
  9. Chemistry of lipid A: at the heart of innate immunity
    • Authors: A Molinaro, O Holst, F Di Lorenzo, M Callaghan, A Nurisso, G D’Errico, R Jerala
    • Year: 2015
    • Citations: 261
  10. Three-dimensional domain swapping in the folded and molten-globule states of cystatins, an amyloid-forming structural superfamily
    • Authors: RA Staniforth, S Giannini, LD Higgins, MJ Conroy, AM Hounslow, R Jerala
    • Year: 2001
    • Citations: 246
  11. Primary structure of a new cysteine proteinase inhibitor from pig leucocytes
    • Authors: A Ritonja, M Kopitar, R Jerala, V Turk
    • Year: 1989
    • Citations: 202
  12. The POM monoclonals: a comprehensive set of antibodies to non-overlapping prion protein epitopes
    • Authors: M Polymenidou, R Moos, M Scott, C Sigurdson, Y Shi, B Yajima, R Jerala
    • Year: 2008
    • Citations: 194
  13. Toll‐like receptor 4 activation in cancer progression and therapy
    • Authors: A Oblak, R Jerala
    • Year: 2011
    • Citations: 187

 

 

Beda Innocent ADJI | Biological Sciences | Scientific Excellence Achievement Award

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Dr. Beda Innocent ADJI | Biological Sciences | Scientific Excellence Achievement Award

Ph. d student at University of Iceland, Iceland.

Beda Innocent Adji is a dedicated researcher in the field of agricultural and forestry sciences, driven by a passion for advancing our understanding of plant biodiversity, adaptation, and resilience in tropical ecosystems. His academic journey is marked by a series of notable achievements, including post-doctoral studies in Biotechnology and Molecular Biology at the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD, France), where he focused on the RNA-RainForStory project in the Congo Basin. Prior to this, he pursued post-doctoral research in Digital and Computational Plant Sciences, collaborating between institutions in France and China. Beda’s doctoral studies, specializing in Genetics and Plant Improvement, earned him the prestigious mention of “Très honorable,” reflecting the excellence of his research contributions. His expertise spans experimental design, data analysis, genetic and molecular techniques, computational modeling, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Through his work, Beda aims to develop innovative strategies for enhancing the productivity and sustainability of agroforestry systems, contributing to global efforts in biodiversity conservation and climate resilience.

Professional Profiles:

Education:

Beda Innocent Adji’s educational journey is characterized by a rich tapestry of academic accomplishments across various domains of agricultural and forestry sciences. His pursuit of knowledge culminated in several notable degrees and achievements. Notably, he completed post-doctoral studies in Biotechnology and Molecular Biology at the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD, France) in 2024, focusing on the RNA-RainForStory project in the Congo Basin. Prior to this, in 2023, he undertook post-doctoral research in Digital and Computational Plant Sciences, a collaborative program between the Académie des Sciences et Lettres de l’Université de Montpellier (France) and the Institut d’Automatisation et des Systèmes Complexes d’Intelligence Artificielle Multimodaux de l’Académie Chinoise des Sciences (CASIA, China). Earlier, he earned his Doctorate in Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, specializing in Genetics and Plant Improvement, from Université Jean Lorougnon Guédé (UJLoG, Côte d’Ivoire) in conjunction with CIRAD and IRD, France, where he received the prestigious mention of “Très honorable.” These accomplishments underscore Beda’s dedication to academic excellence and his significant contributions to the field of agricultural and forestry sciences.

Professional Experience

Beda Innocent Adji’s professional journey is characterized by his substantial contributions and expertise in the field of agricultural and forestry sciences. As a permanent researcher at the Université Jean Lorougnon Guédé and an associate researcher at both IRD and CIRAD, Beda seamlessly blends academic rigor with practical application. His role involves spearheading various research projects focusing on forest genomics, plant improvement, botanical studies, and plant modeling. Beda’s extensive professional experience spans across international collaborations, where he actively engages in interdisciplinary research endeavors. Through his work, Beda has established himself as a prominent figure in the scientific community, continuously striving to advance knowledge and address critical issues in tropical agriculture and forestry. His dedication to research excellence and commitment to fostering sustainable practices underscore his significant impact in the field.

Research Interest

Beda Innocent Adji’s research interests revolve around advancing our understanding of plant biodiversity, adaptation, and resilience in tropical ecosystems. He is particularly interested in forest genomics, plant improvement, botanical studies, and plant modeling. Beda’s work aims to unravel the genetic mechanisms underlying plant traits and their response to environmental stressors. Through interdisciplinary approaches, including genetic and molecular techniques, computational modeling, and image analysis, he seeks to develop innovative strategies for enhancing the productivity and sustainability of agroforestry systems. Additionally, Beda is passionate about exploring the potential of emerging technologies, such as digital and computational plant sciences, to revolutionize agricultural practices and mitigate the impacts of climate change on plant communities. His research endeavors are driven by a commitment to safeguarding biodiversity and promoting the resilience of tropical plants in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Award and Honors

Beda Innocent Adji has received recognition for his outstanding academic achievements and contributions to the field of agricultural and forestry sciences. Notably, he was awarded the prestigious mention of “Très honorable” for his doctoral thesis in Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, highlighting the excellence of his research work and its significance in advancing knowledge in the field. This honor underscores Beda’s dedication to academic excellence and his significant contributions to the scientific community. Additionally, his contributions to international research collaborations and interdisciplinary studies further solidify his reputation as a respected figure in the field. Through his exceptional research endeavors, Beda continues to make valuable contributions to the advancement of agricultural and forestry sciences, earning him accolades and recognition from peers and institutions alike.

Research Skills

Beda Innocent Adji possesses a diverse and comprehensive set of research skills essential for conducting rigorous and impactful research in agricultural and forestry sciences. He excels in designing robust experimental protocols, ensuring the reliability and validity of research outcomes. Proficient in collecting and analyzing data using various methods, including field observations and statistical analyses, Beda employs both quantitative and qualitative approaches to extract meaningful insights. His expertise in genetic and molecular techniques enables him to investigate plant genetics and molecular pathways effectively. Additionally, Beda demonstrates proficiency in computational modeling and image analysis, allowing him to simulate biological processes and analyze plant specimens with precision. He collaborates seamlessly with researchers from diverse disciplines, leveraging their expertise to address complex research questions. Furthermore, Beda’s effective communication skills ensure the dissemination of his research findings through oral presentations, written reports, and peer-reviewed publications. With a passion for advancing agricultural and forestry sciences, Beda is well-equipped to make significant contributions to the field and tackle pressing challenges in plant biodiversity, adaptation, and sustainability.

Publications

  1. Stochastic modelling of development and biomass allocation: Computation applied to architecture of young mahogany trees (Khaya senegalensis Desr. A. Juss), a native African savannah emblematic agroforestry species
    • Authors: B.I. Adji, X. Wang, V. Letort, M. Jaeger, P. De Reffye
    • Journal: Computers and Electronics in Agriculture, 2024, 220, 108864
  2. Rethinking Iconic Species Reforestation in West Africa: Seed Shape Harnessing Is Strategic for Enhanced Germination and Vigorous Growth in Khaya senegalensis and Parkia biglobosa
    • Authors: B.I. Adji, V. Letort, X. Wang, S. Sabatier, D.S. Akaffou
    • Journal: Forests, 2023, 14(7), 1311
    • Citations: 1
  3. Variation in growth unit morphology in Khaya senegalensis (Desr.) A. Juss. (Meliaceae) and Pterocarpus erinaceus Poir. (Fabaceae) according to habitat and climate | Variation de la morphologie des unités de croissance des essences Khaya senegalensis (Desr.) A. Juss. (Meliaceae) et Pterocarpus erinaceus Poir. (Fabaceae) selon l’habitat et le climat
    • Authors: B.I. Adji, D.S. Akaffou, S. Sabatier
    • Journal: Bois et Forets des Tropiques, 2022, 354(4), pp. 41–54
    • Citations: 1
  4. Correction to: Maternal environment and seed size are important for successful germination and seedling establishment of Pterocarpus erinaceus (Fabaceae)
    • Authors: B.I. Adji, D.S. Akaffou, P. De Reffye, S. Sabatier
    • Journal: Journal of Forestry Research, 2022, 33(6), pp. 1957
  5. Maternal environment and seed size are important for successful germination and seedling establishment of Pterocarpus erinaceus (Fabaceae)
    • Authors: B.I. Adji, D.S. Akaffou, P. De Reffye, S. Sabatier
    • Journal: Journal of Forestry Research, 2022, 33(3), pp. 977–990
    • Citations: 3
  6. Allometric models for non-destructive estimation of dry biomass and leaf area in Khaya senegalensis (Desr.) A. Juss., 1830 (Meliaceae), Pterocarpus erinaceus Poir., 1804 (Fabaceae) and Parkia biglobosa, Jack, R. Br., 1830 (Fabaceae)
    • Authors: B.I. Adji, D.S. Akaffou, K.H. Kouassi, M. Jaeger, S. Sabatier
    • Journal: Trees – Structure and Function, 2021, 35(6), pp. 1905–1920
    • Citations: 5
  7. Correction to: Allometric models for non-destructive estimation of dry biomass and leaf area in Khaya senegalensis (Desr.) A. Juss (Meliaceae), Pterocarpus erinaceus Pear. (Fabaceae) and Parkia biglobosa, Jack, R. Br. (Fabaceae)
    • Authors: B.I. Adji, D.S. Akaffou, K.H. Kouassi, M. Jaeger, S. Sabatier
    • Journal: Trees – Structure and Function, 2021, 35(5), pp. 1747