Ragunath Cholaraj | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ragunath Cholaraj | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Guest Faculty | Periyar University | India

Dr. Ragunath Cholaraj is a distinguished researcher and academician with extensive expertise in Zoology and Biotechnology, particularly in the field of Aquatic Biotechnology. He holds advanced degrees including dual Master of Science qualifications in Zoology and Biotechnology, an M.Phil., and a Ph.D. from Bharathiar University, where his doctoral research focused on the immunomodulatory effects of fucoidan derived from marine seaweeds on fish immune systems. Professionally, he serves as a Guest Faculty at Periyar University, Salem, and has previously worked as a Research Fellow under the Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA 2.0) and as a Quality Control Executive at AMEYA Foods (Marico Pvt. Ltd.). His research interests encompass biotechnology, aquaculture, immunology, molecular biology, phytomedicine, cancer biology, nanotechnology, and microbiology. He is proficient in advanced laboratory techniques including molecular diagnostics, nucleic acid analysis, gene expression studies, nanoparticle synthesis, and biochemical assays such as ELISA and Western blotting. As an active journal reviewer for several international journals, he contributes significantly to scholarly peer review. His research accomplishments are reflected in numerous publications in reputed Scopus and SCI-indexed journals, with impactful work on marine bioactive compounds, nanotechnology applications, and immunological studies in aquaculture species. Dr. Ragunath has received several accolades, including the “Young Researcher Award” from the Institute of Scholars and multiple prizes for poster presentations at national and international conferences. His participation in various workshops and faculty development programs highlights his commitment to continuous learning and scientific advancement. Overall, Dr. Ragunath Cholaraj exemplifies a dedicated researcher whose contributions to aquatic biotechnology and interdisciplinary life sciences continue to promote innovation, sustainability, and academic excellence in biological research.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

  1. Karthik, M., Ragunath, C., Krishnasamy, P., Paulraj, D. Q., & Ramasubramanian, V. (2023). Green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles using Annona muricata leaf extract and its antioxidant and antibacterial activity. Inorganic Chemistry Communications, 157, 111422. Cited by: 27.

  2. Ragunath, C., Kumar, Y. A. S., Kanivalan, I., & Radhakrishnan, S. (2020). Phytochemical screening and GC-MS analysis of bioactive constituents in the methanolic extract of Caulerpa racemosa (Forssk.) J. Agardh and Padina boergesenii Allender & Kraft. Current Applied Science and Technology, 380–393. Cited by: 26.

  3. Cholaraj, R., & Venkatachalam, R. (2024). Investigation of antioxidant and anticancer potential of fucoidan (in-vitro & in-silico) from brown seaweed Padina boergesenii. Algal Research, 79, 103442. Cited by: 18.

  4. Ragunath, C., & Ramasubramanian, V. (2022). Dietary effect of Padina boergesenii on growth, immune response, and disease resistance against Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Cirrhinus mrigala. Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology, 1(1), 1–12. Cited by: 13.

  5. Ragunath, C., Kousalya, L., Venkatachalam, R., & Anitha, S. (2022). Green synthesis of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles from Wrightia tinctoria and its antibacterial activity. BioNanoScience, 12(3), 723–730. Cited by: 12.

 

Atidzhe Ahmed | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Atidzhe Ahmed | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research at Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Bulgaria

Dr. Atidzhe Ahmed is a dedicated researcher in the fields of ecology, zoology, and ethology of large mammals, with over a decade of experience at the Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. She holds a PhD in Zoology and has contributed significantly to the management and study of species such as brown bears, wolves, and chamois. Her academic journey reflects a deep commitment to biodiversity and wildlife conservation. However, her current CV lacks details on peer-reviewed publications, international collaborations, and measurable research impact, which are essential for the Best Researcher Award. While her field expertise and long-standing institutional role demonstrate strong potential, including a list of scientific publications, project involvement, and academic leadership would strengthen her profile considerably. Overall, Dr. Ahmed is a conditionally suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, pending the inclusion of documented research outputs and broader scholarly contributions.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Atidzhe Ahmed has a strong academic background rooted in the biological sciences, with a clear progression from foundational to advanced studies. She completed her high school education at “St. Kliment Ohridski” in Slashten in 1999, followed by a Bachelor’s degree in Ecology from the University of Forestry in 2004. Building on her undergraduate studies, she earned a Master’s degree in Zoology from Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” in 2007, further deepening her expertise in animal biology and environmental sciences. Her academic journey culminated in a PhD in Zoology from the Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (IBER-BAS) in 2012. This advanced education equipped her with comprehensive knowledge in ecology, animal behavior, and biodiversity conservation. Dr. Ahmed’s formal training across respected Bulgarian institutions has laid a solid foundation for her research career, particularly in the study and management of large mammal species in natural ecosystems.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Atidzhe Ahmed has amassed over a decade of professional experience in the fields of zoology and biodiversity research. Her career began with a position as a zoologist at the State Game Enterprise “Kormisosh” in 2011, where she gained hands-on experience in the management of game mammals. In 2012, she joined the Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (IBER-BAS), where she continues to serve as a biologist. At IBER-BAS, she focuses on the ecology, ethology, and conservation of large mammals such as wild boar, brown bears (Ursus arctos), wolves (Canis lupus), and chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra). Her role involves field research, species monitoring, and ecological data analysis to support sustainable wildlife management and biodiversity preservation. Dr. Ahmed’s professional experience reflects a deep commitment to ecosystem research and positions her as a valuable contributor to Bulgaria’s scientific and conservation efforts.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Atidzhe Ahmed’s research interests lie primarily in the ecology, biology, and ethology of large wild mammals, with a focus on understanding species behavior, habitat use, and population dynamics. Her work centers on key species such as brown bears (Ursus arctos), wolves (Canis lupus), wild boars, and chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), which play vital roles in maintaining ecosystem balance. She is particularly interested in the behavioral patterns and ecological interactions of these mammals within their natural habitats, as well as the impact of human activity on their populations. Dr. Ahmed’s research aims to support effective wildlife conservation and management strategies, using field observations, ecological monitoring, and species management practices. Her scientific inquiries contribute to broader efforts in biodiversity preservation and environmental sustainability. Through her ongoing work at the Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, she continues to explore ways to integrate scientific research with practical conservation solutions.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Atidzhe Ahmed’s professional dedication and academic achievements reflect her growing contributions to the field of zoology and biodiversity research, though specific awards and honors are not detailed in the current record. Her long-standing affiliation with the prestigious Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences itself stands as a testament to her credibility and the recognition of her expertise within the scientific community. Her appointment to roles involving the management of key wildlife species indicates trust in her capabilities and leadership in conservation practices. While formal honors or accolades such as research awards, grants, or international distinctions are not explicitly listed, her continued service, academic qualifications, and practical contributions suggest she is a respected figure within her field. Including documented awards, funded projects, or professional recognitions would further validate her candidacy for high-level honors like the Best Researcher Award and underscore her impact in the scientific domain.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Atidzhe Ahmed possesses a diverse and well-developed set of research skills that support her specialization in wildlife ecology and mammalian ethology. Her expertise includes species identification, behavioral observation, ecological monitoring, and data collection in natural habitats, particularly focused on large mammals such as bears, wolves, and chamois. She is skilled in designing and conducting field studies, using tracking methods and habitat analysis to assess population dynamics and species interactions within ecosystems. Additionally, Dr. Ahmed is experienced in the practical application of wildlife management strategies, including conservation planning and species protection measures. Her background also suggests proficiency in scientific documentation, report writing, and the interpretation of ecological data to inform conservation policies. With her strong academic foundation and hands-on fieldwork experience, Dr. Ahmed effectively combines theoretical knowledge with applied research. These skills enable her to contribute meaningfully to biodiversity conservation efforts and advance the understanding of complex ecological systems.

Conclusion💡

Atidzhe Ahmed is highly qualified in terms of academic training and field-based ecological research, especially in large mammal management and biodiversity studies. Her long-term dedication, specialization in ethology, and institutional commitment are strong indicators of her potential as a Best Researcher Award candidate.

However, to strengthen her candidacy, it is strongly recommended to:

  • Include her publication list, metrics (h-index, citation count),

  • Detail research grants or projects, and

  • Highlight any scientific contributions, such as new findings or conservation impact.

Publications Top Noted✍️

  1. Title: Positions and movement of the tail in wild boar (Sus scrofa)

    • Authors: Atidzhe Ahmed, Venislava Spasova, Rumyana Kostova, Daniela Simeonovska-Nikolova

    • Year: 2025

    • Journal: Applied Animal Behaviour Science

    • DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2024.106500

    • Citations: Not yet available (recently published)

  2. Title: Somatometric Characteristics of the Grey Wolf (Canis lupus) in Bulgaria

    • Authors: Atidzhe Ahmed, Blagoy Koichev, Rossen Andreev, Ivan Stepanov, Peter Savev

    • Year: 2024

    • Journal: Silva Balcanica

    • DOI: 10.3897/silvabalcanica.25.e121340

    • Citations: Not yet available (recent publication)

  3. Title: Estimating Population Density of Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus) for Better Management: Comparison of Three Methods

    • Authors: E.D. Popova, A.A. Ahmed, P.V. Genov, M.M. Hodzha, D.P. Zlatanova

    • Year: 2019

    • Journal: Acta Zoologica Bulgarica

    • EID (Scopus): 2-s2.0-85077650476

    • Citations: 6 (approx., via Scopus – may vary)

  4. Title: Red Deer on the Move: Home Range Size and Mobility in Bulgaria

    • Authors: D. Zlatanova, E. Popova, A. Ahmed, I. Stepanov, R. Andreev, P. Genov

    • Year: 2019

    • Journal: Ecologica Montenegrina

    • DOI: 10.37828/EM.2019.23.7

    • Citations: 4 (approx., via Scopus – may vary)

  5. Title: European Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus) as a Biomonitor for Heavy Metal Pollution in Rhodope Mountains, Bulgaria

    • Authors: G.G. Markov, A.A. Ahmed

    • Year: 2018

    • Journal: Ecologia Balkanica

    • EID (Scopus): 2-s2.0-85073899670

    • Citations: 5 (approx., via Scopus – may vary)

  6. Title: Ecological Impact of Wild Boar in Natural Ecosystems

    • Authors: P.V. Genov, S. Focardi, F. Morimando, L. Scillitani, A. Ahmed

    • Year: 2017

    • Book Chapter: Ecology, Conservation and Management of Wild Pigs and Peccaries

    • DOI (Part): 10.1017/9781316941232.038

    • Citations: 7 (approx., via Scopus – may vary)

  7. Title: A Method for Evaluating Density of Roe Deer in a Forested Area in Bulgaria Based on Camera Trapping

    • Authors: F. Morimando, S. Focardi, R. Andreev, S. Capriotti, A. Ahmed, S. Lombardi, P. Genov

    • Year: 2016

    • Journal: Acta Zoologica Bulgarica

    • EID (Scopus): 2-s2.0-84989323272

    • Citations: 10 (approx., via Scopus – may vary)

Cristina Solé | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Cristina Solé | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Women Researcher Award

Investigadora Principal Sénior-Júnior at Vall Hebron Institut Research VHIR, Spain

Dr. Cristina Solé Marcé is a distinguished researcher specializing in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) with over a decade of experience in clinical-translational research. She holds dual degrees in Chemistry and Biochemistry, a PhD with international distinction, and a master’s in Synthesis and Catalysis from Universitat Rovira i Virgili. As a Senior-Junior Principal Investigator at Vall d’Hebron Research Institute, her work focuses on identifying novel biomarkers, developing personalized treatments, and exploring innovative therapies such as CAAR-T cells for lupus nephritis. She has published 31 scientific articles, with 94% as first, last, or corresponding author, and has collaborated with leading institutions, startups, and pharmaceutical companies. A recipient of the 2023 Health Science Award from the Institut d’Estudis Catalans, she is actively engaged in clinical trials, mentorship, and public science outreach. Dr. Solé’s contributions significantly advance lupus research, making her an outstanding candidate for the Women Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Cristina Solé Marcé has a strong academic background in chemistry, biochemistry, and translational medicine. She earned dual degrees in Chemistry and Biochemistry from Universitat Rovira i Virgili, followed by a master’s in Synthesis and Catalysis at the same institution. She later pursued a PhD with international distinction, focusing on innovative research in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Her doctoral work provided a solid foundation for her career in clinical and translational research, particularly in autoimmune diseases. Committed to continuous learning, Dr. Solé has engaged in specialized training programs, including those in biomarker discovery and personalized medicine. Her educational journey, complemented by interdisciplinary expertise and hands-on research, has positioned her as a leading scientist in lupus research. With extensive collaborations and contributions to high-impact publications, her academic achievements continue to shape advancements in precision medicine and novel therapeutic approaches for lupus and related autoimmune disorders.

Professional Experience

Dr. Cristina Solé Marcé is an accomplished researcher specializing in autoimmune diseases, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). She has extensive experience in translational and clinical research, focusing on biomarker discovery and personalized medicine. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with leading research institutions and hospitals, contributing to the advancement of novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Dr. Solé has played a key role in multidisciplinary research projects, integrating molecular biology, immunology, and clinical data to improve patient outcomes. She has also published extensively in high-impact scientific journals and presented her findings at international conferences. Her expertise extends to project management, mentorship of young researchers, and securing competitive research funding. Currently, she continues to drive innovation in lupus research, leveraging her knowledge in precision medicine to develop targeted treatments. Her work has had a significant impact on improving the understanding and management of autoimmune diseases worldwide.

Research Interest

Dr. Cristina Solé Marcé’s research interests focus on autoimmune diseases, with a particular emphasis on systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Her work explores the molecular mechanisms underlying disease pathogenesis, aiming to identify novel biomarkers for early diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment response. She is deeply involved in translational research, integrating clinical data with advanced molecular and immunological techniques to develop personalized therapeutic strategies. Dr. Solé is particularly interested in the role of epigenetics, gene expression, and immune system dysregulation in lupus and related disorders. Her research also extends to precision medicine approaches, seeking to tailor treatments to individual patients based on their genetic and molecular profiles. She collaborates with multidisciplinary teams, including clinicians, bioinformaticians, and immunologists, to translate laboratory discoveries into clinical applications. Through her work, Dr. Solé aims to enhance disease management and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from autoimmune conditions.

Award and Honor

Dr. Cristina Solé Marcé is a distinguished researcher specializing in autoimmune diseases, particularly systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antiphospholipid syndrome. Since 2021, she has served as a Senior-Junior Principal Investigator in the Rheumatology team at the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Unit of the Vall Hebron Research Institute (VHIR). Prior to this role, she dedicated six years as a postdoctoral researcher within the same unit. Her research endeavors focus on enhancing patient outcomes by identifying novel biomarkers to monitor disease status non-invasively and exploring the effects of new drugs and molecular pathways involved in various clinical manifestations. This work has led to multiple publications in internationally recognized journals and invitations to present at prestigious conferences such as the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR).

Research Skill

Dr. Cristina Solé Marcé possesses a diverse range of research skills, particularly in the fields of autoimmune diseases, biomarker discovery, and drug synthesis. She has extensive experience in molecular biology techniques, biochemical assays, and analytical chemistry, which she applies to her studies on systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antiphospholipid syndrome. Her expertise includes non-invasive biomarker identification to improve disease monitoring and understanding the mechanisms of action of novel therapeutic agents. With a strong background in synthetic chemistry, she has worked on the enantioselective synthesis of drugs and the development of anticancer compounds. Additionally, she is skilled in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication, with multiple publications in high-impact journals and presentations at international conferences such as ACR and EULAR. Her interdisciplinary approach, combining chemistry, biochemistry, and immunology, enables her to contribute significantly to translational research and patient-centered advancements in rheumatology.

Conclusion

Dr. Cristina Solé Marcé is a highly accomplished researcher with an impressive track record in autoimmune disease research, particularly lupus. Her combination of scientific excellence, leadership, international collaboration, and patient engagement makes her a compelling candidate for the Women Researcher Award. Strengthening her funding profile and expanding her research applications could further solidify her impact. Given her current achievements, she is well-deserving of recognition through this award.

Publications Top Noted

  • Solé et al., 2025Topical miRNA Delivery via Elastic Liposomal Formulation: A Promising Genetic Therapy for Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus. Int. J. Mol. Sci. DOI: 10.3390/ijms26062641
  • Sandoval, Solé et al., 2024Neuropilin-1 as a Key Molecule for Renal Recovery in Lupus Nephritis: Insights from an NZB/W F1 Mouse Model. Int. J. Mol. Sci. DOI: 10.3390/ijms252111364
  • Solé et al., 2024Precise Targeting of Autoantigen-Specific B Cells in Lupus Nephritis with Chimeric Autoantibody Receptor T Cells. Int. J. Mol. Sci. DOI: 10.3390/ijms25084226
  • Solé et al., 2023Small-Extracellular-Vesicle-Derived miRNA Profile Identifies miR-483-3p and miR-326 as Regulators in the Pathogenesis of Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS). Int. J. Mol. Sci. DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411607
  • Solé et al., 2023Downregulation of miR-885-5p Promotes NF-κB Pathway Activation and Immune Recruitment in Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus. J. Investig. Dermatol. DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2022.08.036
  • Solé et al., 2022Humoral and Cellular Response in Convalescent COVID-19 Lupus Patients. Sci. Rep. DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17334-5
  • Domingo, Solé et al., 2021Thalidomide Exerts Anti-Inflammatory Effects in Cutaneous Lupus by Inhibiting the IRF4/NF-ҡB and AMPK1/mTOR Pathways. Biomedicines. DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9121857
  • Domingo, Solé et al., 2020Efficacy of Thalidomide in Discoid Lupus Erythematosus: Insights into the Molecular Mechanisms. Dermatology. DOI: 10.1159/000508672
  • Domingo, Solé et al., 2020MicroRNAs in Several Cutaneous Autoimmune Diseases: Psoriasis, Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus, and Atopic Dermatitis. Cells. DOI: 10.3390/cells9122656
  • Garcia-Vives, Solé et al., 2020The Urinary Exosomal miRNA Expression Profile is Predictive of Clinical Response in Lupus Nephritis. Int. J. Mol. Sci. DOI: 10.3390/ijms21041372
  • Solé et al., 2019MicroRNA Expression Profiling Identifies miR-31 and miR-485-3p as Regulators in the Pathogenesis of Discoid Cutaneous Lupus. J. Investig. Dermatol. DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2018.07.026