Nitin Pal Kalia | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nitin Pal Kalia | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research Hyderabad- India

Author Profile

🎓Early Academic Pursuits

Nitin Pal Kalia embarked on his academic journey with a focus on biotechnology and clinical microbiology. He completed his M.Sc. in Biotechnology with first-class honors from Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, Punjab, India, in 2006. His passion for research led him to pursue a Ph.D. in the Clinical Microbiology Division at the Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (IIIM), Jammu, under the guidance of Dr. Inshad Ali Khan. During his doctoral studies (2007-2014), Dr. Kalia made significant contributions to the field, including groundbreaking work on the NorA efflux pump inhibitor capsaicin and its impact on Staphylococcus aureus.

🧑‍🏫Professional Endeavors 

Assistant Professor at NIPER-Hyderabad

Since February 2021, Nitin Pal Kalia has been serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad. His office, Room No. 63, has become a hub for innovative research and academic excellence.

Ramalingaswami Fellow

From August 2019 to February 2021, Dr. Kalia held the prestigious Ramalingaswami Fellowship at CSIR-IIIM, Jammu, India. This fellowship allowed him to further his research in drug discovery and tuberculosis.

Research Fellow at NTU Singapore

Between October 2015 and August 2019, Dr. Kalia was a Research Fellow at the Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, NTU Singapore. Here, he honed his skills in advanced research methodologies and contributed to significant scientific discoveries.

Visiting Fellow at NIAID-NIH

Dr. Kalia also spent time as a Visiting Fellow at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), NIH, Bethesda, USA, from May 2014 to July 2015. This experience enriched his research capabilities, particularly in the field of tuberculosis and mycobacteria.

🔬Contributions and Research Focus

Drug Discovery in Tuberculosis

Dr. Kalia’s research has been pivotal in the field of tuberculosis (TB), which remains a major global health challenge. He has focused on discovering new TB drugs and improving the clinical development process for these drugs. His work includes targeting terminal oxidases, specifically the respiratory cytochrome bc1 complex and cytochrome bd-type quinol oxidase, to combat drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

Targeting Cell Wall Synthesis at NIH

During his tenure at NIH, Dr. Kalia evaluated new chemical entities against Mycobacterium tuberculosis mutants. His work aimed to find compounds that target cell wall synthesis, a critical area in TB drug development.

Doctoral Research on Capsaicin

Dr. Kalia’s Ph.D. research revealed capsaicin as an effective inhibitor of the NorA efflux pump in Staphylococcus aureus. His findings demonstrated that capsaicin could significantly reduce the minimum inhibitory concentration of ciprofloxacin and enhance its efficacy, highlighting its potential in overcoming antibiotic resistance.

🏆Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Kalia’s contributions to biomedical research have been recognized through numerous awards and fellowships:

  1. Ramalingaswami Re-entry Fellowship (2017-2018): Awarded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India.
  2. BSL-3 Training: Attended training sessions on biosafety, bio-containment, risk assessment, and management at the National University of Singapore and NIH USA.
  3. IIIM-CSIR Award (2013): Recognized for significant contributions in Discovery Biology, particularly in tuberculosis research.
  4. Indian Council of Medical Research-Senior Research Fellowship: Awarded for his project on evaluating capsaicin and its analogues as multidrug efflux pump inhibitors.

🌍Impact and Influence

Dr. Kalia’s work has had a profound impact on the field of infectious diseases, particularly tuberculosis. His research has paved the way for new drug discoveries and therapeutic strategies. His dedication to teaching and mentoring students at NIPER-Hyderabad has inspired many young minds to pursue careers in biomedical research.

🚀Legacy and Future Contributions

As an Assistant Professor at NIPER-Hyderabad, Dr. Kalia continues to advance the frontiers of biomedical research. His ongoing projects aim to discover new TB drugs and improve existing treatments. Dr. Kalia’s legacy lies in his unwavering commitment to scientific excellence and his ability to inspire future generations of researchers.

Citations

A total of 1513 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations        1513
  • h-index           19
  • i10-index        21

Notable Publications 

  • Title: Antitubercular activity of 2-mercaptobenzothiazole derivatives targeting Mycobacterium tuberculosis type II NADH dehydrogenase
    • Authors: [Authors not provided]
    • Journal: RSC Medicinal Chemistry
    • Year: 2024
  • Title: Cytochrome bd oxidase: an emerging anti-tubercular drug target
    • Authors: [Authors not provided]
    • Journal: RSC Medicinal Chemistry
    • Year: 2024
  • Title: GaMF1.39’s antibiotic efficacy and its enhanced antitubercular activity in combination with clofazimine, Telacebec, ND-011992, or TBAJ-876
    • Authors: [Authors not provided]
    • Journal: Microbiology Spectrum
    • Year: 2023-12-12
  • Title: Exploring and exploiting the host cell autophagy during Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection
    • Authors: [Authors not provided]
    • Journal: European Journal of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases
    • Year: 2023-11
  • Title: Unravelling the flexibility of Mycobacterium tuberculosis: an escape way for the bacilli
    • Authors: [Authors not provided]
    • Journal: Journal of Medical Microbiology
    • Year: 2023-06-01.

Sahjid Mukhida | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sahjid Mukhida | Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

GMERS Medical College,Gujarat- India

Author Profile

🎓Early Academic Pursuits

Sahjid Mukhida embarked on a diverse academic journey, beginning with his Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (B.A.M.S.) from Govt. Ayurved College, Junagadh in 2007. This early exposure to traditional medicine laid a strong foundation for his future medical career. Driven by a passion for medical science, he pursued a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (M.B.B.S.) from JIAMUSI UNIVERSITY, China, graduating in June 2019. His education didn’t stop there; he went on to earn an MD in Microbiology from Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune. Additionally, he holds several postgraduate diplomas, including a Post-Graduation Diploma in Hospital Management (P.G.D.H.M.) from Madurai Kamraj University, Tamil Nadu (2010), and a Post-Graduation Diploma in Business Management (P.G.D.B.M.) with a specialization in Clinical Research Management from the Indian School of Business Management, Ahmedabad-Gujarat (2011). His academic pursuits are further complemented by a Professional Diploma in Clinical Research (P.D.C.R.) from Catalyst Clinical Care Institute, New Delhi (2011).

🏥Professional Endeavors

Sahjid Mukhida’s professional journey began as a Medical Supervisor, Apheresis Coordinator, and Quality Manager at Rajkot Voluntary Blood Bank and Research Center (Life Blood Center), Rajkot, Gujarat, from August 2008 to November 2013. During this tenure, he gained significant experience in HPLC testing for Thalassemia and other hemoglobinopathies, genetic counseling, and PND testing. He later joined Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Andheri, Mumbai, as a Quality Manager and Blood Transfusion Officer in Transfusion Medicine from October 2019 to July 2020. His role involved ensuring the highest standards in blood transfusion practices.Subsequently, Sahjid served as a Junior Resident in the Department of Microbiology at Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pimpri, Pune, from August 2020 to August 2023. Here, he honed his skills in various sections of the department, gaining hands-on experience in education, teaching, data analysis, project writing, and publication processes. His role also included organizing and handling conferences, showcasing his leadership and organizational skills.

🔬Contributions and Research Focus

Sahjid Mukhida’s contributions to the field of medicine are multifaceted. His research focuses on blood banking, transfusion medicine, and microbiology. He is adept at using the latest industry equipment and technology to ensure patient and donor safety. His specialization in documentation and patient transfusion/transplant safety underscores his commitment to excellence.His work experience includes significant contributions to the prevention of Thalassemia and other hemoglobinopathies through genetic counseling and PND testing. Additionally, his research on appendicitis among medical students at Jiamusi University and his involvement in various research projects, including a survey on food habits and lifestyle, highlight his dedication to advancing medical knowledge.

🏆Accolades and Recognition

Sahjid Mukhida’s exemplary work has been recognized with numerous accolades. He was awarded the Dr. Harold Gunson Fellowship by the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) in 2010 and presented a poster at the 31st International Congress of ISBT in Berlin, Germany. He attended the 1st Pan-Asian Conference of Hemoglobinopathies organized by Thalassemia International Federation (TIF) in Bangkok, Thailand, with sponsorship from TIF in February 2012.His excellence has also been acknowledged through various certificates of appreciation, including being named Employee of the Month twice in five years and receiving the Certificate of Excellence Graduates from Jiamusi University in June 2019. He has been trained in quality management systems of NABH, NABL, and ISO 9001:2008, and is an internal auditor and trainer for these certifications. He holds lifetime memberships with the Quality Council of India and ISTM.

🌟Impact and Influence

Sahjid Mukhida’s impact on the medical community is profound. His work in blood banking and transfusion medicine has set high standards for patient safety and quality care. His leadership abilities have enabled him to effectively manage practice staff and improve patient outcomes. His commitment to continuous learning and professional development is evident in his extensive list of certifications and training.

🛤️Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Sahjid Mukhida is poised to continue making significant contributions to the medical field. His ongoing involvement in research projects, such as the ICMR study on Mucormycosis, and his dedication to education and training position him as a future leader in medical research and practice. His legacy is one of dedication, excellence, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge, ensuring that his impact will be felt for years to come.In summary, Sahjid Mukhida’s journey from a dedicated student to a respected medical professional is marked by his unwavering commitment to excellence, continuous learning, and a passion for improving patient care. His contributions to blood banking, transfusion medicine, and microbiology, coupled with his leadership skills and professional achievements, make him a notable figure in the medical community.

Citations

A total of 40 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations         40
  • h-index           44
  • i10-index        3

Notable Publications 

  • Title: Two Teacher System in Medical Curriculum: An Experiment Worth Considering
    • Authors: Das, N.K., Mukhida, S., Patil, R., Khan, S.
    • Journal: Medical Journal of Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth
    • Year: 2024
  • Title: All it Needs a Passionate Teacher to Ignite Young Minds
    • Authors: Das, N.K., Mukhida, S., Ajagunde, J., Das, P.
    • Journal: Journal of Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences University
    • Year: 2024
  • Title: Development of a Machine Learning Model to Predict Risk of Development of COVID-19-Associated Mucormycosis
    • Authors: Patil, R., Mukhida, S., Ajagunde, J., Das, N.K., Mirza, S.
    • Journal: Future Microbiology
    • Year: 2024
  • Title: Baseline Findings of a Multicentric Ambispective Cohort Study (2021–2022) Among Hospitalised Mucormycosis Patients in India
    • Authors: Abdulkader, R.S., Ponnaiah, M., Bhatnagar, T., Murhekar, M.V., Mukhida, S.S.
    • Journal: Mycology
    • Year: 2024.

Jaya Biswas | Infections and clinical microbiology | Editorial Board Member

Dr. Jaya Biswas - Infections and clinical microbiology - Editorial Board Member 🏆 

All India Institute Of Medical Sciences, Delhi - India

Professional Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

She embarked on her academic journey with a fervent passion for Infections and clinical microbiology. Graduating with distinction in microbiology from a renowned institution, she exhibited exceptional aptitude and dedication from the outset. Her early academic pursuits laid a solid foundation for her future endeavors in the field of clinical microbiology, sparking her interest in microbial infections, diagnostic microbiology, infectious diseases, and medical microbiology.

Professional Endeavors

Her professional journey in Infections and clinical microbiology has been marked by her relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation. Starting her career as a research assistant in a prestigious laboratory, she quickly rose through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional skills in microbiological testing, analysis, and research. Over the years, she has held various positions in clinical laboratories, academic institutions, and research organizations, honing her expertise in microbial infections, diagnostic techniques, and infectious disease management.

Contributions and Research Focus in Infections and clinical microbiology

Her research focus revolves around addressing critical challenges in Infections and clinical microbiology, with a particular emphasis on microbial infections and diagnostic microbiology. Her pioneering research endeavors aim to improve the detection, identification, and management of infectious diseases through the development of novel diagnostic tools and techniques. With a deep understanding of medical microbiology principles, she collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to explore innovative solutions for combating infectious pathogens and antibiotic resistance.

Accolades and Recognition

Her contributions to Infections and clinical microbiology have earned her widespread acclaim and recognition within the scientific community. Her research findings have been published in reputable journals and presented at international conferences, garnering accolades and awards for their significance and impact. Additionally, her dedication to advancing the field of clinical microbiology has been acknowledged through various professional honors and accolades, solidifying her reputation as a leading researcher in the field.

Impact and Influence

Her research endeavors have had a profound impact on the field of Infections and clinical microbiology, influencing diagnostic practices, treatment strategies, and public health policies. Through her innovative research and collaborative efforts, she has contributed to the understanding and management of infectious diseases, ultimately improving patient outcomes and healthcare delivery. Her expertise and influence extend beyond the laboratory, as she actively engages with healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community stakeholders to promote awareness and implement evidence-based interventions.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As she continues her journey in Infections and clinical microbiology, her legacy as a dedicated researcher and visionary leader continues to grow. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, she strives to address pressing challenges in microbial infections, diagnostic microbiology, and infectious disease management. Through her ongoing research endeavors and mentorship of future scientists, she aims to leave a lasting impact on the field, shaping the future of clinical microbiology and advancing global health outcomes. As she navigates the evolving landscape of clinical microbiology, her vision and dedication will continue to drive meaningful contributions and transformative advancements in the field.

Notable Publications

Shahina Raushan Saikh | Atmospheric Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Shahina Raushan Saikh - Atmospheric Microbiology - Best Researcher Award 🏆

Bose Institute - India

Professional Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

She embarked on her academic journey with a fervent interest in the natural world, particularly in understanding the intricate dynamics of microbial life. She laid the groundwork for her academic endeavors by completing her high school education at Assisi Higher Secondary School and subsequently pursued higher secondary education at Pranab Vidyapith Higher Secondary School, both under the auspices of the Nagaland Board of School Education. Her exceptional academic performance during these formative years underscored her innate curiosity and passion for learning.

Professional Endeavors

Armed with a solid academic background and a keen interest in atmospheric microbiology, She embarked on a journey into the professional realm, determined to make meaningful contributions to the field. She sought opportunities to immerse herself in research and collaborative endeavors, aspiring to expand her knowledge and expertise in environmental science and microbial ecology. Her commitment to excellence and her proactive approach to learning set her apart as a promising young scientist with a bright future ahead.

Contributions and Research Focus in Atmospheric Microbiology

Her research endeavors have centered on the burgeoning field of atmospheric microbiology, where she has sought to unravel the mysteries of microbial life in the air and its implications for air quality and environmental health. Her research focuses on understanding the composition, dynamics, and ecological roles of airborne microorganisms, with a particular emphasis on their interactions with atmospheric processes and pollutants. Through her investigations, Shahina aims to shed light on the complex interplay between microorganisms and the atmosphere, paving the way for innovative solutions to mitigate air pollution and safeguard public health.

Accolades and Recognition

Her contributions to the field of atmospheric microbiology have garnered widespread acclaim and recognition from her peers and the scientific community. Her research presentations at prestigious conferences and symposiums, including the American Geophysical Union (AGU) Fall Meeting and the National Environment Conference, have showcased her expertise and commitment to advancing the frontiers of knowledge in microbial ecology and environmental science. Additionally, her accolades, including the INSPIRE Fellowship and her impressive rankings in national examinations such as CSIR-UGC NET JRF and GATE, underscore her outstanding academic achievements and her potential as a future leader in the field.

They investigate the processes involved in microbial aerosolization, transport, deposition, and transformation in the atmosphere. Research in atmospheric microbiology employs diverse techniques such as molecular microbiology, metagenomics, bioinformatics, and microbial ecology to unravel the complexity of microbial communities in the air. Understanding atmospheric microbiology is crucial for assessing the impact of airborne microorganisms on human health, ecosystems, agriculture, and climate dynamics.

Impact and Influence

Her research and scholarly endeavors have the potential to make a significant impact on our understanding of atmospheric microbiology and its implications for air quality and environmental health. By elucidating the complex interactions between microorganisms and the atmosphere, her work has the potential to inform public policy, shape environmental management strategies, and contribute to the development of innovative solutions for mitigating air pollution and its associated health risks. H passion for scientific inquiry and her dedication to addressing pressing environmental challenges highlight her potential to effect positive change and inspire future generations of scientists.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As she continues her journey as a scientist and researcher in atmospheric microbiology, her legacy will be defined by her unwavering commitment to advancing knowledge and addressing pressing environmental challenges. Through her innovative research, collaborative endeavors, and dedication to excellence, she has the potential to leave a lasting impact on the field, shaping our understanding of microbial ecology and its implications for air quality and environmental health. Shahina's future contributions hold the promise of driving meaningful progress towards a more sustainable and healthy planet, leaving a legacy that inspires and empowers future generations to follow in her footsteps.

Notable Publications