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)

Ahmed Sabri AYAD | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Dr . Ahmed Sabri AYAD | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Young Scientist Award

Researcher at Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center (CRSP) , Algeria

Dr. Ahmed Sabri Ayad is a promising young researcher with a PhD in Biological Sciences and a strong background in natural product pharmacology, particularly focused on Algerian propolis and bee health. At just 29, he has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications in international journals and participated in several scientific conferences, demonstrating both productivity and engagement with the global research community. His multidisciplinary training, international research experience in Canada, and technical proficiency in laboratory and analytical methods add depth to his profile. Dr. Ayad’s work is regionally relevant and globally significant, addressing issues such as antimicrobial resistance and environmental health. He also brings added value through community involvement and science outreach. While further leadership in independent research projects and broader international collaborations would strengthen his candidacy for senior-level awards, he stands out as an excellent contender for a Young Scientist Award, with clear potential for future scientific impact.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Ahmed Sabri Ayad holds a PhD in Biological Sciences from the University Badji Mokhtar, Annaba, Algeria, with research centered on applied animal biology and natural bioactive compounds. He earned his Master’s degree in Cellular Physiology and Physiopathology from the same university in 2019, graduating among the top of his class. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Physiology in 2017, following a science-focused baccalaureate in 2014. In addition to formal education, Dr. Ayad has pursued diverse training programs that enriched his scientific and technical skills, including courses in cancer biology from Johns Hopkins University, apiculture, cupping therapy, and natural cosmetics formulation. He also completed several language and communication courses in English and French, enhancing his global engagement capabilities. His commitment to lifelong learning and interdisciplinary development has equipped him with a strong foundation in biomedical research, laboratory techniques, and health sciences education.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Ahmed Sabri Ayad has a diverse professional background combining research, industry, and community engagement. Since December 2024, he has served as a permanent researcher at the Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center (CRSP) in Constantine, Algeria. Prior to this, he worked as a medical representative for Frater Razes Laboratory (2022–2024) and Novapharm Trading Laboratory (2020–2021), gaining valuable experience in pharmaceutical communication and marketing. His research experience includes a significant internship at the Centre for Precision Medicine and Medicinal Chemistry Laboratory, University of Moncton, Canada, where he contributed to cutting-edge biomedical research. Earlier roles include laboratory-based academic training and teaching assistant work with the Red Crescent in Annaba, where he taught first aid. This blend of academic, industrial, and voluntary roles has enabled him to develop strong scientific, communication, and organizational skills, making him a well-rounded and adaptable professional in the fields of biomedical research and pharmaceutical sciences.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Ahmed Sabri Ayad’s research interests lie at the intersection of natural product pharmacology, toxicology, and environmental health, with a particular focus on bee products such as propolis and honey. He is deeply engaged in studying the bioactive properties of these substances, including their antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-parasitic activities. His work aims to explore the therapeutic potential of natural compounds while assessing their safety and efficacy in both in vitro and in vivo models. He is also interested in the impact of environmental factors and pesticides on bee health, contributing to the conservation of local honeybee populations. His interdisciplinary approach combines cellular biology, analytical chemistry, and animal physiology to develop sustainable, nature-based health solutions. Dr. Ayad’s research is both locally relevant and globally significant, aligning with current scientific efforts to valorize traditional remedies and protect pollinator species critical to ecological and agricultural systems.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Ahmed Sabri Ayad has earned recognition for his academic excellence and scientific contributions throughout his career. During his Master’s studies in Cellular Physiology and Physiopathology at the University Badji Mokhtar, Annaba, he graduated among the top of his class, reflecting his dedication and strong academic performance. He received a certificate of distinction for successfully completing an advanced course in Cancer Biology from Johns Hopkins University via Coursera, showcasing his commitment to continuous learning and specialization. His research has also been selected for presentation at various national and international scientific conferences, including events in Tunisia, Turkey, and Algeria, where he highlighted the biological activities of Algerian propolis. These platforms not only reflect his scientific merit but also his ability to communicate complex findings to diverse audiences. His early achievements in research and education, along with consistent engagement in training and public science outreach, mark him as a standout young scientist in his field.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Ahmed Sabri Ayad possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that span cellular biology, pharmacology, toxicology, and natural product analysis. He is proficient in various laboratory techniques, including acetylcholinesterase, protein, and lipid peroxidation (MDA) assays, as well as antioxidant activity assessment through DPPH methods. His expertise extends to cell culture, cytotoxicity testing via MTT assay, apoptosis analysis by flow cytometry, and anti-inflammatory testing using 5-lipoxygenase assays. Additionally, Dr. Ayad has hands-on experience in animal handling, particularly with rats and honey bees, and manages small-scale apiculture operations as part of his field studies. He is skilled in the determination of polyphenols and flavonoids in bee products, crucial for evaluating their bioactivity. On the technical front, he is proficient with software such as GraphPad Prism, Zotero, and BioRender for data analysis and presentation. His well-rounded research capabilities enable him to conduct interdisciplinary studies with a high level of scientific rigor and innovation.

Conclusion💡

Dr. Ahmed Sabri Ayad is a highly suitable candidate for a Young Scientist Award, especially given his strong publication record, innovative research on bee products and natural pharmacology, and international collaboration at a relatively early career stage.

He would be a moderately strong contender for a Best Researcher Award if aimed at early-career researchers, but may need a few more years of independent leadership and international recognition for senior-level awards

Publications Top Noted✍

  • Title: Algerian Propolis from Distinct Geographical Locations: Chemical Profiles, Antioxidant Capacity, Cytotoxicity and Inhibition of 5-Lipoxygenase Product Biosynthesis

  • Authors: Ayad, A.S. (Ahmed Sabri), Hébert, M.P.A. (Mathieu P.A.), Doiron, J.A. (Jérémie A.), Loucif-Ayad, W., Daas, T., Smagghe, G., Alburaki, M., Barnett, D.A., Touaibia, M. (Mohamed), Surette, M.E. (Marc E.)

  • Year: 2024

  • Journal: Chemistry and Biodiversity

  • DOI/Citation: Ayad, A.S., Hébert, M.P.A., Doiron, J.A., et al. (2024). Algerian Propolis from Distinct Geographical Locations: Chemical Profiles, Antioxidant Capacity, Cytotoxicity and Inhibition of 5-Lipoxygenase Product Biosynthesis. Chemistry and Biodiversity. DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202301758