Himani Rani | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Himani Rani | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

CSIR-IGIB, India

Author Profile

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Himani Rani’s journey in the realm of life sciences began with a deep-seated passion for understanding the biological intricacies that govern living organisms. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Zoology from the prestigious Gargi College, Delhi University in 2015, laying a strong foundation in the biological sciences. With an eagerness to explore the field further, she pursued her Master’s in Zoology from M.D.U University, Rohtak, graduating in 2017 with distinction and securing 3rd University Rank, a testament to her academic dedication and discipline 📚.

Her curiosity and academic rigor led her to a research-intensive path, culminating in her admission to the CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), New Delhi, where she embarked on her Ph.D. in Life Sciences (Molecular Biology). Her thesis, submitted in January 2025, reflects years of focused scientific inquiry and deep intellectual commitment to translational research in human disease biology .

💼 Professional Endeavors

Himani’s professional journey is deeply rooted in scientific research, education, and knowledge dissemination. She began her teaching career as a Zoology Lecturer at Saraswati Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Haryana, where she shared her academic insights and inspired students from February to August 2018 👩‍🏫. This teaching stint was followed by her full immersion in research when she joined CSIR as a Junior Research Fellow (2019-2021) and later as a Senior Research Fellow (2021-2024) under the mentorship of Dr. Neeru Saini.

Her active participation in workshops and training programs, such as the Biologics & Biosimilars Workshop, Data Analysis with Python for Biologists, and Hands-on Training in Molecular Biotechnology, further enhanced her technical prowess and analytical acumen. She also received training in biosafety and biosecurity through the ASM Virtual Workshop (2013), reflecting her commitment to ethical and safe scientific practice 🧪.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Himani Rani’s core research delves into the molecular mechanisms underlying psoriasis, a chronic autoimmune skin disorder. Her Ph.D. project titled “Functional Characterization of miR-718 in Psoriasis” explores how miR-718, a microRNA, influences mitochondrial dynamics, keratinocyte proliferation, and inflammatory pathways, particularly the JAK/STAT signaling cascade.

Her study highlights miR-718’s role in regulating prohibitin 1 (PHB1) and STAT1, critical genes involved in mitochondrial health and immune response. Notably, she demonstrated miR-718’s therapeutic potential in vivo using the Imiquimod-induced murine model of psoriasis, showing decreased dermal thickness, immune infiltration, and angiogenesis after its administration. Her findings underscore the translational potential of targeting miR-718 for innovative psoriasis treatment 🧫.

In addition to her doctoral work, her M.Sc. project on Cardiac Troponin-I detection via immuno-chromatography introduced her to clinical diagnostics and set the stage for her understanding of biomarker-based disease monitoring ❤️‍🩹.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Himani’s academic and research excellence has earned her several prestigious awards and fellowships:

  1. 🥇 Best Oral Poster Award at the GLOBAL IMMUNOLOGY SUMMIT 2024, hosted by THSTI, Faridabad.

  2. 🥉 Certificate of Appreciation for securing 3rd University Rank in M.Sc. Zoology (2017).

  3. 🧠 CSIR-NET-JRF Awardee (Dec 2017) with an All India Rank of 55, marking her as one of the top young researchers in life sciences in India.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through her publications and active research engagement, Himani Rani has made a significant impact in the field of molecular dermatology. Her research on miR-718 and its regulatory roles in inflammation and mitochondrial function presents promising avenues for developing targeted therapies in autoimmune disorders 🔬.

She has authored and co-authored high-impact publications, including:

  • “MiR-718-mediated inhibition of prohibitin 1 influences mitochondrial dynamics, proliferation, and migration of keratinocytes” in Mitochondrion.

  • “Overexpression of miR-718 in keratinocytes affects psoriatic inflammation via targeting STAT1”, currently under revision in Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Himani Rani stands at the cusp of a promising scientific career. With a unique blend of academic brilliance, research innovation, and teaching experience, she is poised to contribute significantly to the domains of molecular therapeutics, autoimmune disease research, and translational biology 🔍.

Her future goals include:

  • Establishing her own research lab focused on non-coding RNAs and skin biology.

  • Collaborating internationally to translate her findings into clinical applications.

  • Mentoring young scientists and fostering a culture of scientific curiosity and integrity 🔗.

 Notable Publications 
  • Title: MiR-718-mediated inhibition of prohibitin 1 influences mitochondrial dynamics, proliferation, and migration of keratinocytes

    Authors: Himani Rani; Neeru Saini

    Journal/Conference: Mitochondrion

Abhishek Gupta | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Abhishek Gupta | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Indian Institute of Public Health Gandhinagar (IIPHG)- India

Author Profile

📚Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Abhishek Gupta’s journey in the realm of biomedical sciences began with a solid foundation in biochemistry and biological chemistry. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biological Chemistry from Christ Church Degree College, CSJM University, Kanpur, UP, India, from 1996 to 1999. His academic prowess led him to pursue a Master of Science in Biochemistry at the Institute of Life Sciences, CSJM University, Kanpur, which he completed between 1999 and 2001. Not one to rest on his laurels, Dr. Gupta further specialized in bioinformatics, earning an Advanced Post Graduate Diploma from the University Institute of Engineering and Technology (UIET), CSJM University, Kanpur, in 2004-2005. His academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. in Medical Biochemistry/Biomedical Sciences from King George’s Medical University, Lucknow, UP, India, from 2006 to 2011.

🌍Professional Endeavors

Dr. Abhishek Gupta’s professional journey is as diverse as it is impressive. Currently, he serves as the Senior Team Lead and Scientific Consultant at the Indian Institute of Public Health Gandhinagar (IIPHG), where he has been contributing since August 2023. His role involves leading scientific research and providing consultancy on various public health projects. Prior to this, he held the position of Professor and Associate Dean at the School of Health Sciences, The Assam Kaziranga University, from April to December 2022. His leadership and expertise were also pivotal during his tenure as Head of Research & Development at Baj’s Laboratories, Kanpur, from August 2020 to March 2022.Dr. Gupta’s global experience includes significant roles such as Senior Principal Scientist at Patanjali Research Institute (PRI) in Haridwar, India, and Research Associate at IRCM, University of Montreal, Canada. His postdoctoral research stints at renowned institutions like Sahlgrenska University Hospital, University of Gothenburg, Sweden, and the University of Alberta, Canada, have contributed immensely to his broad expertise in biomedical sciences.

🔍Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Gupta’s research is extensive and multifaceted, encompassing areas such as biochemical, cellular, and molecular biology, genetics, toxicology, and immunology. His work in drug discovery and development, including herbal medicine research, has been groundbreaking. His clinical and preclinical research spans in-vitro, in-vivo, and ex-vivo studies, making significant strides in understanding complex biochemical processes and developing new therapeutic approaches.

🏆Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Gupta’s contributions to biomedical research have been widely recognized. His professional networking extends across various prestigious platforms, including ResearchGate, LinkedIn, LSINJ, Orcid, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. These platforms highlight his prolific publication record and his influential role in advancing biomedical sciences. His work has garnered respect and acknowledgment from peers worldwide, solidifying his reputation as a leading scientist in his field.

🌐Impact and Influence

Dr. Abhishek Gupta’s influence extends beyond research to education and mentorship. His academic roles have involved teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students, fostering the next generation of scientists. His administrative roles have been instrumental in shaping research agendas and academic policies at various institutions. His guidance as a Senior Scientific Advisor at Guidepoint LLC has also been crucial in advancing scientific research and development strategies.

🌟Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Gupta’s legacy is characterized by his relentless pursuit of scientific excellence and his dedication to advancing public health. His current role at the Indian Institute of Public Health Gandhinagar is poised to have a lasting impact on public health policies and practices in India. His future contributions are expected to further the field of biomedical sciences, with ongoing research likely to lead to new discoveries and innovations in drug development and public health strategies.

Citations

A total of 438 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations         438
  • h-index           36
  • i10-index        12

Notable Publications 

  • Title: Validated simultaneous HPTLC analysis of scopoletin and gallic acid in the methanolic fraction of Jatropha glandulifera
    Authors: Dwivedi, J., Gupta, A., Paliwal, S., Rawat, A.K.S.
    Journal: Journal of Planar Chromatography – Modern TLC
    Year: 2020
  • Title: Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi)
    Authors: Joshi, T., Gupta, A., Kumar, P., Singh, A., Kumar, A.
    Book: Naturally Occurring Chemicals against Alzheimer’s Disease
    Year: 2020
  • Title: Validated simultaneous high-performance thin-layer chromatographic analysis of ursolic acid, β-sitosterol, lupeol and quercetin in the methanolic fraction of Ichnocarpus frutescens
    Authors: Dwivedi, J., Gupta, A., Verma, S., Paliwal, S., Rawat, A.K.S.
    Journal: Journal of Planar Chromatography – Modern TLC
    Year: 2019
  • Title: Validated high-performance thin-layer chromatographic analysis of ursolic acid and β-sitosterol in the methanolic fraction of paederia foetida L. Leaves
    Authors: Dwivedi, J., Gupta, A., Verma, S., Paliwal, S., Rawat, A.K.S.
    Journal: Journal of Planar Chromatography – Modern TLC
    Year: 2018
  • Title: High-performance thin-layer chromatography analysis for simultaneous quantifications of phenolic biomarkers in Oxalis corniculata L. methanolic fraction
    Authors: Gupta, A., Kumar, P., Goshain, O., Kumar Rai, A., Dwivedi, J.
    Journal: Journal of Planar Chromatography – Modern TLC
    Year: 2020.