Letícia Estevinho | Biotecnology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Letícia Estevinho | Biotecnology | Best Researcher Award

head teacher at Escola Superior Agrária -IPB, Portugal

Prof. Dr. Leticia M. Estevinho is a distinguished researcher with over 35 years of academic and scientific experience at the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança, Portugal. She holds a PhD in Science and has completed the highest academic qualification in Portugal, the Agregação. Her prolific research career includes over 200 published articles in indexed journals, 325+ scientific communications, five book chapters, and four patents. As principal investigator of more than 30 fully funded research projects, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership. She has supervised 23 PhD students and 10 postdoctoral researchers and has served as Head of the Microbiology Laboratory since 1986. Additionally, she has contributed significantly to the scientific community through her roles as editor-in-chief of three journals, editorial board member of 50 international journals, and reviewer of over 500 manuscripts. Her consistent academic excellence, mentorship, and research productivity make her a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile

Education🎓

Prof. Dr. Leticia M. Estevinho has a strong and distinguished academic background in the fields of science and biotechnology. She earned her degree in Zootechnical Engineering in 1985 with the highest honors (summa cum laude), reflecting her early academic excellence. She went on to complete a Master of Science degree in Biotechnology in 1989, also with merit, further strengthening her expertise in applied biological sciences. In 1995, she obtained her PhD in Science from the University of Minho in Braga, Portugal, marking a significant milestone in her research career. In 2009, she successfully completed the Agregação, the most advanced academic qualification in the Portuguese academic system, which is a testament to her scholarly depth and leadership in research. This solid educational foundation has supported her long-standing career in academia, research, and mentoring, enabling her to contribute extensively to scientific knowledge and innovation in microbiology and biotechnology.

Professional Experience📝

Prof. Dr. Leticia M. Estevinho has amassed over 35 years of professional experience in academia and scientific research, primarily at the Agricultural College of Bragança, Polytechnic Institute of Bragança, Portugal. Since 1986, she has served as a faculty member, progressing to the role of Full Professor. She is the Head of the Microbiology Laboratory, a position she has held since the beginning of her career, where she has led extensive research and academic initiatives. Prof. Estevinho has supervised 23 PhD students and 10 postdoctoral researchers, reflecting her strong commitment to mentorship and academic development. She has also been the principal investigator of over 30 fully funded research projects, showcasing her leadership and project management capabilities. Her editorial contributions are extensive, having served as editor-in-chief for three journals and on the editorial boards of 50 others. Her experience spans teaching, research, administration, and international collaboration, making her a respected leader in her field.

Research Interest🔎

Prof. Dr. Leticia M. Estevinho’s research interests lie primarily in microbiology, biotechnology, and their applications in agriculture, food science, and environmental sustainability. Her work focuses on the antimicrobial properties of natural products, particularly honey and propolis, and their potential use in food preservation and health. She is also deeply engaged in studying microbial behavior, resistance mechanisms, and the development of innovative biotechnological solutions to improve food safety and quality. Her research extends to applied microbiology in agricultural systems, exploring ways to enhance productivity while maintaining ecological balance. Prof. Estevinho is known for integrating fundamental science with practical applications, often contributing to the development of new products and patents. Her interdisciplinary approach combines biology, chemistry, and environmental sciences, enabling her to address complex challenges in both academic and industrial settings. Her work not only advances scientific knowledge but also supports sustainable practices and public health improvement through biotechnology.

Award and Honor🏆

Prof. Dr. Leticia M. Estevinho has earned widespread recognition throughout her distinguished career for her exceptional contributions to science, research, and education. While specific awards and honors are not detailed in the provided biography, her academic distinctions, such as graduating summa cum laude in Zootechnical Engineering and completing her M.S. and PhD with merit, reflect consistent excellence from the outset of her academic journey. Her successful completion of the prestigious Agregação qualification in 2009 further highlights her scholarly achievement and academic leadership. Prof. Estevinho’s international standing is evidenced by her role as editor-in-chief of three scientific journals and editorial board membership in 50 respected international journals—positions typically reserved for highly accomplished and respected researchers. Additionally, her role as a peer reviewer for over 500 scientific articles demonstrates the trust the academic community places in her expertise. These roles serve as implicit honors that affirm her influence and stature in the scientific world.

Research Skill🔬

Prof. Dr. Leticia M. Estevinho possesses a comprehensive and advanced set of research skills that reflect her extensive experience in microbiology, biotechnology, and related fields. She demonstrates strong expertise in experimental design, microbial analysis, natural product testing, and data interpretation. Her ability to lead and manage large-scale scientific projects is evident from her role as principal investigator in over 30 fully funded research initiatives. She is skilled in laboratory management, having led the Microbiology Laboratory at the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança since 1986. Her proficiency in scientific writing is highlighted by the publication of more than 200 indexed journal articles, multiple book chapters, and patents. Additionally, her experience in mentoring PhD and postdoctoral researchers showcases her capacity to guide complex research processes. Her editorial work and extensive peer-review contributions further demonstrate her critical analysis, scientific rigor, and strong understanding of current trends and standards in scientific research and publication.

Conclusion💡

Prof. Dr. Leticia M. Estevinho is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. Her career reflects a deep commitment to research excellence, mentorship, and scientific leadership. The volume and consistency of her contributions, especially her mentorship and editorial responsibilities, are outstanding.

While a bit more emphasis on global impact metrics and innovation frontiers would enhance the application, her existing achievements clearly place her among top-tier researchers deserving of recognition.

Publications Top Noted✍

  • Title: Biological activities of endophytic fungi isolated from Annona muricata Linnaeus: a systematic review
    Authors: I. M. M. Silva, R. M. Silva, V. B. Paula, L. M. Estevinho
    Year: 2024
    Citation: Silva, I. M. M., Silva, R. M., Paula, V. B., & Estevinho, L. M. (2024). Biological activities of endophytic fungi isolated from Annona muricata Linnaeus: a systematic review. Brazilian Journal of Biology. https://doi.org/10.1590/1519-6984.259525

  • Title: Volatile characterization of honey with dominance of Bupleurum spinosum pollen
    Authors: Youssef Elamine, Alexandra M. Machado, Letícia M. Estevinho, Badiâa Lyoussi, Ana Cristina Figueiredo, Maria Graça Miguel
    Year: 2024 (Published online: 2023-10-19)
    Citation: Elamine, Y., Machado, A. M., Estevinho, L. M., Lyoussi, B., Figueiredo, A. C., & Miguel, M. G. (2024). Volatile characterization of honey with dominance of Bupleurum spinosum pollen. Journal of Apicultural Research. https://doi.org/10.1080/00218839.2023.2232124

  • Title: Antibacterial and Healing Effect of Chicha Gum Hydrogel (Sterculia striata) with Nerolidol
    Authors: Idglan Sá de Lima, Maria Onaira Gonçalves Ferreira, Esmeralda Maria Lustosa Barros, Marcia dos Santos Rizzo, Jailson de Araújo Santos, Alessandra Braga Ribeiro, Josy Anteveli Osajima Furtini, Edson C. Silva-Filho, Leticia M. Estevinho
    Year: 2023
    Citation: Lima, I. S. de, Ferreira, M. O. G., Barros, E. M. L., Rizzo, M. S., Santos, J. A., Ribeiro, A. B., Furtini, J. A. O., Silva-Filho, E. C., & Estevinho, L. M. (2023). Antibacterial and Healing Effect of Chicha Gum Hydrogel (Sterculia striata) with Nerolidol.

  • Title: Antimicrobial Activity of Propolis from the Brazilian Stingless Bees Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides and Scaptotrigona depilis (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Meliponini)
    Authors: Jaqueline Ferreira Campos, Thaliny Bonamigo, Paola dos Santos da Rocha, Vanessa Marina Branco Paula, Uilson Pereira dos Santos, José Benedito Perrella Balestieri, Denise Brentan Silva, Leticia M. Estevinho, et al.
    Year: 2023
    Citation: Campos, J. F., Bonamigo, T., Rocha, P. S. da, Paula, V. M. B., Santos, U. P. dos, Balestieri, J. B. P., Silva, D. B., Estevinho, L. M., et al. (2023). Antimicrobial activity of propolis from Brazilian stingless bees.

  • Title: Botanical origin, physicochemical characterization, and antioxidant activity of bee pollen samples from the northeast of Portugal
    Authors: Ananias Pascoal, Émerson Dechechi Chambó, Leticia M. Estevinho
    Year: 2023
    Citation: Pascoal, A., Chambó, É. D., & Estevinho, L. M. (2023). Botanical origin, physicochemical characterization, and antioxidant activity of bee pollen samples from the northeast of Portugal.

  • Title: Chemotherapeutic properties and side-effects associated with the clinical practice of terpene alkaloids: paclitaxel, docetaxel, and cabazitaxel
    Authors: Mário Sousa-Pimenta, Letícia M. Estevinho, Agnieszka Szopa, Mahnoor Basit, Muhammad Armaghan, Manshuk Ibrayeva, Eda Sönmez Gürer, et al.
    Year: 2023
    Citation: Sousa-Pimenta, M., Estevinho, L. M., Szopa, A., Basit, M., Armaghan, M., Ibrayeva, M., Gürer, E. S., et al. (2023). Chemotherapeutic properties and side-effects of terpene alkaloids: paclitaxel, docetaxel, and cabazitaxel.

  • Title: Comparative Methods to Evaluate the Antioxidant Capacity of Propolis: An Attempt to Explain the Differences
    Authors: Vanessa B. Paula, Leticia M. Estevinho, Susana M. Cardoso, Luís G. Dias
    Year: 2023
    Citation: Paula, V. B., Estevinho, L. M., Cardoso, S. M., & Dias, L. G. (2023). Comparative methods to evaluate the antioxidant capacity of propolis: An attempt to explain the differences.

  • Title: High Hydrostatic Pressure in the Modulation of Enzymatic and Organocatalysis and Life under Pressure: A Review
    Authors: Hana Scepankova, Diogo Galante, Edelman Espinoza-Suaréz, Carlos A. Pinto, Leticia M. Estevinho, Jorge Saraiva
    Year: 2023
    Citation: Scepankova, H., Galante, D., Espinoza-Suaréz, E., Pinto, C. A., Estevinho, L. M., & Saraiva, J. (2023). High hydrostatic pressure in the modulation of enzymatic and organocatalysis and life under pressure: A review.

Ramiro Vivanco | Biotecnología | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Ramiro Vivanco | Biotecnología | Best Researcher Award

Investigador at Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas, Ecuador

Ramiro Vivanco Gonzaga is an emerging biotechnology researcher with a strong interdisciplinary background in synthetic biology, plant biology, and artificial intelligence. As the founder of AFBiolab—supported by Microsoft for Startups—he demonstrates exceptional innovation and leadership in biotechnology research and development. His academic journey includes prestigious programs from Harvard’s Aspire Institute, Johns Hopkins University, and the Icahn School of Medicine, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning and scientific excellence. Ramiro has extensive hands-on experience in molecular biology techniques, bioinformatics, and project management, with notable roles in both environmental and biomedical sectors. He has led and collaborated on projects involving CRISPR, genome analysis, and sustainable practices. While his peer-reviewed publication record is still developing, his practical contributions and startup leadership highlight significant research potential. With a growing global presence and a drive for impactful science, Ramiro is a strong candidate for recognition through the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile:

Education

Ramiro Vivanco Gonzaga has pursued a dynamic and interdisciplinary educational path focused on biotechnology, systems biology, and data science. He is currently enrolled in the prestigious Aspire Leaders Program at the Aspire Institute, supported by Harvard University, which cultivates leadership and innovation among emerging scientists. He earned his degree in Biotechnology Engineering from the Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas – ESPE, where he also served as President of the Synthetic Biology Club and was awarded the Junior Researcher Award in 2024. Further expanding his expertise, Ramiro is completing specializations in Systems Biology and Biotechnology from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and in Bioinformatics from Johns Hopkins University, where he is developing skills in genome analysis and computational biology. Additionally, he is undergoing a Data Science Specialization from Johns Hopkins, equipping him with skills in machine learning and big data analysis. His education reflects a commitment to integrating biology, technology, and data science for innovative research.

Professional Experience

Ramiro Vivanco Gonzaga has cultivated a diverse and impactful professional background across biotechnology, bioinformatics, environmental science, and laboratory research. He is the founder of AFBiolab, a biotech startup supported by Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub, where he leads innovation in synthetic biology, artificial intelligence, and bioinformatics. Previously, he worked as a laboratory specialist at Aitia Biotech, optimizing experimental protocols and contributing to scientific advancements. As an environmental consultant for CULTEX, he conducted biodiversity assessments and promoted sustainable land practices. He also served as a coordinator for water treatment quality at UMAPAP, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. At EMBL-EBI, he interned as a research project manager, furthering his skills in data analysis and research planning. His earlier roles include internships at IDgen and ESPE’s Tissue Culture Lab, where he gained foundational experience in molecular biology and plant biotechnology. Ramiro’s professional journey reflects a strong ability to lead, innovate, and collaborate across scientific disciplines.

Research interest

Ramiro Vivanco Gonzaga’s research interests lie at the intersection of biotechnology, synthetic biology, artificial intelligence, and environmental sustainability. He is particularly passionate about applying systems biology and bioinformatics to solve complex biological problems, including the genetic basis of diseases and the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. His work integrates molecular biology techniques such as CRISPR, genome sequencing, and cellular analysis with advanced computational tools and data science, aiming to create predictive models and smart biotechnological applications. Ramiro is also deeply interested in the role of biotechnology in promoting sustainability, especially in developing eco-friendly technologies and regenerative environmental practices. His startup, AFBiolab, reflects these ambitions by combining AI and synthetic biology for the advancement of bio-based solutions. With a strong foundation in laboratory science and a forward-thinking approach to integrating emerging technologies, Ramiro’s research is geared toward high-impact, cross-disciplinary innovations that address both human health and global ecological challenges.

Award and honor

Ramiro Vivanco Gonzaga has earned several awards and honors that reflect his dedication to scientific excellence and leadership in biotechnology. Notably, he received the Junior Researcher Award from the Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas – ESPE in 2024, recognizing his early contributions to academic research and innovation. During his undergraduate studies, he served as President of the Synthetic Biology Club from 2021 to 2023, where he led collaborative projects and promoted student involvement in advanced biotechnological initiatives. His selection into the Aspire Leaders Program, backed by Harvard University, further highlights his potential as a future leader in science and technology. Additionally, his startup AFBiolab’s acceptance into the Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub stands as a major achievement, acknowledging his entrepreneurial spirit and groundbreaking work in integrating artificial intelligence and synthetic biology. These distinctions underscore his promise as a rising researcher committed to impactful and interdisciplinary scientific advancement.

Research skill

Ramiro Vivanco Gonzaga possesses a strong and versatile set of research skills that span molecular biology, synthetic biology, bioinformatics, and data science. He is proficient in laboratory techniques such as CRISPR, PCR/qPCR, LC-MS, genome sequencing, cell culture, and quality analysis—essential tools for modern biotechnology research. His computational expertise includes programming in Python, R, and MATLAB, along with the use of bioinformatics software for genomic analysis, data visualization, and algorithm development. Ramiro has also developed skills in machine learning and deep learning, which he integrates into biological research for predictive modeling and innovative solution development. Additionally, he is trained in experimental design, scientific writing, and project management, enabling him to lead multidisciplinary research projects effectively. His certifications in Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), ISO standards, and project management further enhance his ability to conduct research in regulated environments. Ramiro’s blend of wet lab experience and computational proficiency positions him as a capable and innovative researcher.

Conclusion 

Ramiro Vivanco Gonzaga is a highly promising and innovative researcher who blends biotechnology and artificial intelligence with a strong orientation toward applied science and real-world impact. His leadership in startups, cross-functional lab skills, and international training reflect a research trajectory that is both ambitious and meaningful.

Publications top noted

1. Title: Consequences of Volcanic Ash on Antioxidants, Nutrient Composition, Heavy Metal Accumulation, and Secondary Metabolites in Key Crops of Cotopaxi Province, Ecuador

  • Authors: Raluca Mihai, Katherine Elizabeth Rodríguez Valencia, Nina G. Sivizaca Flores, Ramiro Fernando Vivanco Gonzaga, Nelson Santiago Cubi Insuaste, Rodica Catana

  • Year: 2025

  • Journal: Toxics

  • DOI: 10.3390/toxics13020075

  • ISSN: 2305-6304

2. Title: Impact of Babaco (Vasoncelea x pentagona (Heilborn) Mabb.) Fruit Ripening Stages on Phytochemical Composition and Biological Properties

  • Authors: Raluca Mihai, Mauricio G. Canchignia Guacollantes, Ramiro F. Vivanco Gonzaga, Nelson Santiago Cubi Insuaste, Rodica Catana

  • Year: 2024

  • Journal: Metabolites

  • DOI: 10.3390/metabo14120718