Mridula Singh | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Dr. Mridula Singh | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

NIPER, India

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Mridula Singh’s academic journey is a testament to her dedication and passion for the field of pharmaceutical sciences. She embarked on her higher education at the Government College of Pharmacy in Shimla, where she completed her Bachelor of Pharmacy (B. Pharm.) in Pharmaceutical Sciences, achieving an impressive score of 79%. This foundational education equipped her with a robust understanding of the principles of pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and drug formulation, laying the groundwork for her future endeavors.Following her undergraduate studies, Mridula pursued a Master of Science in Pharmacy (M.S. Pharm.) specializing in Natural Products at the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Mohali. Here, she excelled academically, earning a commendable CGPA of 8.7. Her time at NIPER was pivotal, as it not only deepened her knowledge but also introduced her to advanced research methodologies and analytical techniques that would become integral to her career.Mridula’s academic prowess culminated in her pursuit of a Ph.D. in Natural Products at the same institution. Over the course of her doctoral studies, which spanned from August 2019 to June 2024, she achieved a remarkable CGPA of 9.2, reflecting her commitment to excellence and her capacity for rigorous scientific inquiry.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Mridula Singh’s professional journey has been characterized by significant roles in esteemed research institutions. She began her career as a Research Assistant at the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR-IIIM) in Jammu and Kashmir. In this position, she honed her skills in various chromatographic techniques, laying the foundation for her expertise in isolating and purifying secondary metabolites from plants and marine sponges. This experience provided her with valuable insights into the complexities of natural product chemistry and set the stage for her future research.In July 2019, Mridula transitioned to the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER) as a Senior Research Fellow, a role she held for approximately five years. During this period, she took on significant responsibilities, including the standardization of phytochemicals, development and validation of HPLC/UPLC methods, and structure elucidation of chemical compounds through spectral techniques. Mridula’s ability to oversee multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining targeted deadlines speaks to her exceptional organizational and time management skills.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Mridula’s research contributions have focused on the anti-obesity potential of natural products. She has conducted extensive studies on the isolation of phytochemicals from medicinal plants, evaluating their biological efficacy in treating obesity. Her work has involved conducting in vitro assays, preparing buffers and acids, and performing mRNA gene expression studies using cultured cell lines like 3T3-L1 and HepG2. Moreover, she has designed and executed various in vivo experiments, demonstrating her versatility as a researcher.In addition to her experimental work, Mridula has engaged in literature reviews and experimental design, contributing to the scientific community’s understanding of the seasonal and geographical variations in medicinal plants. Her interdisciplinary collaborations have enabled her to integrate insights from different fields, enhancing the impact of her research.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Throughout her academic and professional journey, Mridula Singh has received recognition for her contributions to the field of pharmaceutical sciences. Her ability to develop and validate chromatographic methods has garnered appreciation from her peers and mentors alike. Moreover, her commitment to writing grant proposals and research summaries has positioned her as a vital contributor to her research teams.Mridula’s expertise in various analytical techniques, including mass spectrometry, NMR, FTIR, and UV-Vis spectroscopy, has made her a sought-after collaborator in research projects. Her proficiency with tools like ChemBio3D Ultra, PyMOL, and GraphPad Prism 9 has further distinguished her as a researcher capable of producing high-quality scientific work.

Impact and Influence 🌍

The impact of Mridula Singh’s research extends beyond the confines of the laboratory. Her findings on the anti-obesity potential of natural products have implications for drug development and public health. By exploring the therapeutic properties of natural compounds, she contributes to the growing body of knowledge surrounding alternative therapies and nutraceuticals, potentially influencing future treatments for obesity and related metabolic disorders.Moreover, her work adheres to best practices in research, including Good Laboratory Practices (GLP), Good Clinical Practices (GCP), and the OECD guidelines for the safety of chemicals. This commitment to ethical research practices underscores the significance of her contributions in a regulatory context.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

As Mridula Singh looks towards the future, her commitment to advancing pharmaceutical sciences remains unwavering. With a solid foundation in natural products research and a proven track record of successful collaborations, she is well-positioned to make further significant contributions to the field.Her ambition includes continuing her research into natural products and their applications in drug development while also exploring avenues in intellectual property and technology management. Mridula aims to mentor the next generation of scientists, sharing her knowledge and experience to foster innovation in pharmaceutical research.In conclusion, Mridula Singh’s journey is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and passion for pharmaceutical sciences. Her early academic pursuits, professional endeavors, significant contributions, and recognition underscore her status as a leading researcher in her field. As she continues to explore new frontiers in research, her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations of scientists to pursue excellence and innovation.

Afsona Khatun | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Ms. Afsona Khatun | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Bengal College of Pharmaceutical Technology, India

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Afsona Khatun embarked on her academic journey with an unwavering dedication to the field of pharmaceutical sciences. Her early education at Goghat Bhagabati Valika Vidyalaya set a strong foundation, where she achieved an impressive 90.1% in her secondary examination (WBBSE) in 2016. Continuing her academic success, she pursued her Higher Secondary education at Arambagh Girls High School, excelling in major subjects like Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology with a notable score of 74.6% in 2018. With a clear passion for scientific inquiry and natural products, she pursued a Bachelor of Pharmacy at Brainware University, graduating with a remarkable CGPA of 9.26 in 2022. Currently, she is on track to complete her Master of Pharmacy (M. Pharm) in Pharmacognosy from Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology, with an expected CGPA of 9.45. Her commitment to her education has been consistently exemplary, underscoring her dedication to advancing her knowledge in the pharmaceutical sciences.

Professional Endeavors and Technical Proficiency 🛠️

Afsona’s technical skill set is diverse, covering a range of software, instruments, and hands-on techniques critical to her field. She has demonstrated proficiency in data analysis using MS Excel and is skilled with MS Office tools for general research and documentation tasks. Her expertise extends to Computer-Aided Drug Design (CADD) software, including Discovery Studio, Autodock Vina, and SwissADME, which are instrumental in molecular modeling and drug discovery processes. Additionally, she has utilized ChemSketch for structural chemistry tasks and honed her graphic design skills with Adobe Photoshop and Canva, showcasing her versatility in both scientific and visual communication.In the laboratory, Afsona’s competence shines through her handling of a variety of essential instruments. From Soxhlet apparatus for plant extraction to UV/IR spectrophotometers for compound identification, she demonstrates technical prowess and meticulous care. Her experience with microcentrifuges, autoclaves, BOD incubators, column chromatography, and laminar air flow cabinets highlights her adeptness in handling sensitive biological materials and ensuring a sterile environment for her experiments. Additionally, her familiarity with flame photometers and digital colony counters supports her expertise in quantitative analysis and microbial culture handling, essential for her work in pharmacognosy.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Afsona’s research interests center around natural product pharmacognosy and herbal formulation development, particularly in the extraction, isolation, and characterization of bioactive compounds from plants and marine sources. She is skilled in various extraction techniques like maceration, decoction, percolation, and Soxhlet extraction, which she applies to separate and isolate valuable alkaloids from aquatic plants. Her focus on bioactive compounds is further illustrated by her practical work in phytochemical screening, including studies on Ashwagandha root, Liquorice, and Sterculia foetida, which have promising pharmacological properties.Her innovative work extends to the formulation and evaluation of herbal products, such as Aloe vera gel, polyherbal handwash, herbal sunscreen, cough syrup, and herbal soap. This hands-on experience is essential for identifying the therapeutic efficacy and commercial potential of natural remedies. Additionally, Afsona’s experience with plant tissue culture and antifungal assays (disk diffusion, cup plate, and pour plate methods) highlights her dedication to advancing pharmaceutical sciences with sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives.

Accolades and Recognition 🌟

Throughout her academic and research journey, Afsona’s hard work and consistent performance have been recognized through her outstanding CGPAs in both undergraduate and postgraduate studies. Her technical expertise and dedication to her field have garnered her positions of responsibility in collaborative research projects, such as those she has conducted at Brainware University and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology. These accomplishments speak volumes of her commitment to achieving excellence in her research endeavors and contributing significantly to the scientific community.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Afsona’s work in natural product extraction and phytochemical screening not only contributes to the field of pharmacognosy but also supports broader sustainability goals. By focusing on herbal formulations and environmentally friendly practices, she is part of a global movement advocating for greener alternatives in the pharmaceutical industry. Her dedication to in vitro cultivation techniques and antifungal assay development is expected to impact areas such as agriculture, environmental science, and public health, where natural plant-based solutions are increasingly favored.Her expertise with CADD tools also reflects her alignment with modern pharmaceutical advancements, as she combines traditional knowledge of medicinal plants with cutting-edge molecular modeling techniques. By exploring the intersection of traditional medicine and modern technology, Afsona serves as an inspiration for aspiring pharmacognosists who aim to bridge these worlds for the betterment of health sciences.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱

As Afsona moves forward in her career, her foundation in both traditional pharmacognosy and computational drug design places her in a unique position to contribute to innovative pharmaceutical solutions. Her ongoing education and research aim to refine her understanding of bioactive compounds and optimize their extraction and formulation processes. She is likely to lead projects that explore sustainable, herbal-based medications, thus impacting not only the field of pharmacognosy but also contributing to global health and sustainability goals.Afsona Khatun’s journey illustrates the blend of dedication, skill, and innovation that are essential for a successful career in pharmaceutical sciences. Her contributions and future pursuits will undoubtedly enrich the field, serving as a testament to her commitment to both scientific rigor and sustainable healthcare solutions.

Sameen Zaidi | Botany | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Ms. Sameen Zaidi | Botany | Best Researcher Award

Aligarh Muslim university, India

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓🌱

Sameen Zaidi’s journey in the field of botany and advanced plant physiology started with a deep-rooted passion for understanding the complexities of plant growth, stress responses, and genetic adaptation. From her early academic days, she exhibited a strong interest in the sciences, gravitating towards the dynamic world of botany and its critical role in environmental stability, human health, and agriculture. Her academic focus naturally led her to cytogenetics, where she began exploring the microscopic details of cell biology and plant genetics to unlock the secrets of plant resilience and adaptability. Pursuing a Ph.D. in Advanced Plant Physiology, Sameen immersed herself in a world of research dedicated to enhancing the understanding of plant biology and applying these insights to real-world challenges.

Professional Endeavors 💼🌿

Sameen’s professional journey started as a Project Assistant II at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP) in Lucknow, where she contributed to cutting-edge research on medicinal plants. Working in the Genetic Resource Management (GRM) department, Sameen was part of a pioneering project on Cannabis sativa L., where she explored the genetic and biochemical diversity of the plant, particularly targeting cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and THCA. This hands-on experience in a leading research institute solidified her expertise in genetic resource management and gave her insights into practical applications of plant physiology in medicine. Her work on Swertia chirayta, Artemisia annua, Ocimum spp., and Mentha spp. further broadened her knowledge of medicinal plants and their potential therapeutic uses, making her well-versed in the intersection of botany and healthcare.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔍📚

Sameen’s research contributions reflect her commitment to addressing pressing challenges in botany and plant science. Her focus on cytogenetics and plant physiology has enabled her to work on seed research, investigating how plant species adapt to environmental stressors at the cellular level. In her role at CSIR-CIMAP, she contributed to the development of high-yield strains of medicinal plants, identifying genotypes with desirable traits for therapeutic purposes. Through her work, she contributed significantly to understanding plant resilience and genetic diversity, which holds great promise for advancing agricultural sustainability and food security. Her research interest extends to stress mitigation strategies, where she is dedicated to studying how plants respond to environmental stresses and exploring methods to enhance their growth and productivity.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆🌍

Sameen’s contributions have been well-regarded in her academic and professional communities, earning her recognition for her diligent research efforts and innovative approach to plant physiology. She has received accolades from her supervisors and peers for her work in genetic resource management and her valuable input in research on medicinal plants. Her insights into cytogenetics and plant physiology have been shared at conferences and seminars, where her colleagues have praised her dedication to advancing plant science. Her passion for interdisciplinary research has allowed her to stand out as a researcher eager to apply her knowledge in diverse areas, making her a respected figure in her field.

Impact and Influence 🌐💡

Sameen’s work in plant physiology and cytogenetics has had a positive impact on both her research community and the broader field of botany. Her research on Cannabis sativa and other medicinal plants has opened up new avenues for understanding the therapeutic potential of plants, contributing to the growing body of knowledge on natural remedies and alternative medicine. Her expertise in stress responses and seed research holds potential applications for sustainable agriculture, as her findings contribute to strategies for growing resilient plants in challenging environments. Through her work, Sameen has inspired her colleagues and students to explore the potential of plant science in addressing global challenges, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and conservation efforts.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌱🔬

Sameen Zaidi’s journey in botany and plant physiology is marked by her passion for advancing scientific knowledge and her commitment to contributing to a sustainable future. Her research in genetic resource management and cytogenetics has laid a strong foundation for future studies in plant resilience, stress mitigation, and medicinal plant research. With her Ph.D. journey, she aims to broaden her impact by exploring interdisciplinary projects that intersect with environmental science, agriculture, and healthcare. As a dedicated researcher, Sameen continues to seek opportunities to collaborate with fellow scientists and contribute to projects that address real-world challenges, aspiring to leave a lasting legacy in plant science.Her work embodies a balance of curiosity, dedication, and a vision for a sustainable future. Sameen is prepared to make significant contributions to plant physiology and botany as she continues her academic and professional journey, leaving an indelible mark on the scientific community. Her career goal of fostering sustainable agricultural practices and understanding plant resilience highlights her commitment to making a meaningful impact in her field and beyond.

Citations

A total of 420 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations         420
  • h-index           9
  • i10-index        5

Notable Publications 

  • Title: Arsenic-induced plant stress: Mitigation strategies and omics approaches to alleviate toxicity
    Authors: Zaidi, S., Hayat, S., Pichtel, J.
    Journal: Plant Physiology and Biochemistry
    Year: 2024.
  • Title: Structural Chemistry, Biosynthesis, and Signaling of Multifaceted Plant Growth Regulator: Strigolactone
    Authors: Zaidi, S., Arif, Y., Imtiaz, H., Shiraz, M., Hayat, S.
    Journal: Journal of Plant Growth Regulation
    Year: 2024.
  • Title: Strigolactones as plant hormone: An overview
    Authors: Arif, Y., Zaidi, S., Bajguz, A., Hayat, S.
    Book: Strigolactones: Synthesis, Application and Role in Plants
    Year: 2024.
  • Title: Validation of an optimized spectrophotometric method for the selective determination of labetalol hydrochloride
    Authors: Rahman, N., Singh, M., Hoda, N.Md., Zaidi, S.M.K.R., Banu, N.
    Journal: Chinese Journal of Chemistry
    Year: 2005.
  • Title: Effects of antioxidant vitamins on glutathione depletion and lipid peroxidation induced by restraint stress in the rat liver
    Authors: Zaidi, S.M.K.R., Al-Qirim, T.M., Banu, N.
    Journal: Drugs in R and D
    Year: 2005.

Vignesh Arumugam | Phytochemistry | Young Scientist Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Assist Prof Dr. Vignesh Arumugam | Phytochemistry | Young Scientist Award

NGM College (Autonomous)- India

Author Profile

🎓Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Vignesh Arumugam began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology from JJ College of Arts & Science in Pudukkottai, India (2009-2012). His interest in plant sciences led him to pursue a Master of Science in Botany at Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, India (2012-2014). Dr. Arumugam’s passion for research and dedication to the field of botany culminated in earning a Ph.D. in Botany from Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, India (2015-2022).

👨🏻💼Professional Endeavors 

Dr. Arumugam’s professional career began as a Project Assistant at the Department of Botany, Bharathiar University (2014-2016), where he gained invaluable research experience. In 2023, he joined NGM College (Autonomous), Pollachi, India, as an Assistant Professor of Botany, where he continues to inspire and educate students in various botanical disciplines.

🔬Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Arumugam’s research interests are diverse and impactful. His work spans phytochemistry, biotechnology, food chemistry, microbiology, and bioinformatics. During his time as a Graduate Research Associate at Bharathiar University (2015-2022), he conducted a phytosociological and ethnobotanical survey in the Nilgiris Biosphere Reserve, India, to develop suitable conservation measures.One of his significant research projects involved quantifying the nutraceutical activities of B. tinctoria extracts, including proximate analysis, micronutrients, primary and secondary metabolites, and in vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic activities. Dr. Arumugam identified bioactive compounds from B. tinctoria using advanced techniques such as GC-MS and LCMS/MS. His research also explored the antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities of these bioactive compounds against various human pathogenic bacteria.Dr. Arumugam further investigated the green synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) from B. tinctoria leaf and fruit extracts. He confirmed their properties using UV, FTIR, XRD, EDX, SEM, DLS, and ZETA techniques and examined their antibacterial, anti-biofilm, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. His work also analyzed the potential benefits of plant extracts against various human cancer cell lines using in vitro techniques and compared them with green synthesized ZnO NPs activities.

🏆Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Arumugam’s contributions to botany have been recognized with several awards and fellowships. He received the Innovative Project Proposal Award from the Institutions Innovation Council at Bharathiar University in 2020. Additionally, he was awarded the TNSCST-Project Assistant fellowship at Bharathiar University (2014-2016).Dr. Arumugam’s scholarly impact is evident from his Google Scholar citation index, which includes 143 citations, an H-index of 7, and an i10-index of 4. His ResearchGate citation index also reflects his significant influence, with a Research Interest Score of 124.5 and an H-index of 7.

🌱Impact and Influence

Dr. Arumugam’s teaching and research have significantly impacted the field of botany. His dedication to education is evident in his teaching interests, which include phytochemistry, biotechnology, food chemistry, microbiology, and bioinformatics. His students benefit from his extensive knowledge and research experience, preparing them for successful careers in botanical sciences.

🚀Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Arumugam’s legacy in botany is marked by his innovative research and commitment to conservation. His work on B. tinctoria and the green synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles has paved the way for future research in phytochemistry and nanotechnology. As an Assistant Professor at NGM College, he continues to inspire the next generation of botanists and researchers.Dr. Vignesh Arumugam’s career exemplifies excellence in botany through his early academic pursuits, professional endeavors, significant contributions to research, and unwavering dedication to education. His work has earned him accolades and recognition, cementing his impact and influence in the field. As he continues to advance his research and mentor students, Dr. Arumugam’s legacy will undoubtedly leave a lasting mark on the world of botanical sciences. 🌿

Citations

A total of 96 citations for his publications, demonstrating the impact and recognition of his research within the academic community.

  • Citations         96
  • h-index           15
  • i10-index        5

Notable Publications 

  • Title: A review on the influence of nutraceuticals and functional foods on health
    Authors: Vignesh, A., Amal, T.C., Sarvalingam, A., Vasanth, K.
    Journal: Food Chemistry Advances
    Year: 2024
  • Title: Food contaminants: Impact of food processing, challenges and mitigation strategies for food security
    Authors: Vignesh, A., Amal, T.C., Vasanth, K.
    Journal: Food Research International
    Year: 2024
  • Title: Unraveling the impact of nanopollution on plant metabolism and ecosystem dynamics
    Authors: Vignesh, A., Amal, T.C., Sivalingam, R., Selvakumar, S., Vasanth, K.
    Journal: Plant Physiology and Biochemistry
    Year: 2024
  • Title: Influence of ecological factors on the phytochemical composition and bioactivity of Berberis tinctoria Lesch. wild edible fruits
    Authors: Vignesh, A., Amal, T.C., Sivalingam, R., Selvakumar, S., Vasanth, K.
    Journal: Biochemical Systematics and Ecology
    Year: 2024
  • Title: Construction of 3-amino-9-ethylcarbazole scaffold for multifunctional applications: Chemosensor for copper(II) ions along with antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity
    Authors: Sathiyaraj, G., Vignesh, A., Priyanka, K., Dharmaraj, N., Kaveri, M.V.
    Journal: Results in Chemistry
    Year: 2023.

Urooj Hassan Bhat | Plant Physiology | Young Scientist Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Ms. Urooj Hassan Bhat - Plant Physiology - Young Scientist Award 🏆

Aligarh Muslim University - India

Professional Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

She embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor's degree in Botany from Aligarh Muslim University, where she demonstrated a strong passion for plant science. Her academic excellence continued as she pursued a Master's degree in Botany from the same institution, specializing in Plant Physiology. During her academic tenure, she engaged in research projects focusing on the alleviation of phytotoxicity induced by nanoparticles in Brassica juncea, showcasing her commitment to understanding the complexities of plant interactions with environmental stressors.

Professional Endeavors

After completing her postgraduate studies, she actively participated in workshops and webinars focusing on statistics, optimization techniques, and emerging technologies in plant sciences. These experiences enriched her knowledge and skill set, enhancing her proficiency in research methodologies and analytical techniques. Additionally, her engagement in webinars addressing the impact of COVID-19 on environmental health highlights her dedication to staying updated on current issues and trends in the field.

Contributions and Research Focus in Plant Physiology

Her research endeavors have primarily revolved around the field of Plant Physiology, with a specific focus on understanding plant responses to environmental stressors. Her postgraduate dissertation on the alleviation of zinc oxide nanoparticles-induced phytotoxicity in Brassica juncea reflects her dedication to exploring innovative solutions to mitigate the adverse effects of environmental pollutants on plant growth and development. Through her research, she aims to contribute to the broader understanding of plant stress physiology and pave the way for sustainable agricultural practices.

Accolades and Recognition

Her academic achievements and research contributions have earned her recognition and accolades in the scientific community. Her commitment to excellence in the field of Plant Physiology was acknowledged through her participation in workshops and webinars, where she actively engaged with experts and peers to exchange knowledge and ideas. Additionally, her postgraduate dissertation showcased her ability to conduct independent research and generate valuable insights into plant-environment interactions.

Impact and Influence

Her research in Plant Physiology holds significant implications for agriculture, environmental sustainability, and ecosystem health. By investigating the mechanisms underlying plant responses to environmental stressors, such as nanoparticles, she contributes to the development of strategies to enhance plant resilience and productivity in the face of changing environmental conditions. Her work has the potential to inform agricultural practices and policies aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of environmental pollutants on crop yields and food security.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As she continues her academic and professional journey, her legacy in Plant Physiology is poised to endure. With a strong foundation in Botany and Plant Science, she is well-equipped to address pressing challenges in agriculture and environmental conservation. Through her ongoing research and engagement in interdisciplinary collaborations, she aims to make enduring contributions to the advancement of plant science and its applications in addressing global challenges related to food security, environmental sustainability, and climate change mitigation.

Notable Publications