Zaira Ahmad | Environmental Health | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zaira Ahmad | Environmental Health | Best Researcher Award 

Assistant Professor | Lahore College for Women University | Pakistan

Dr. Zahra Molazem is a distinguished academic and healthcare researcher currently serving as an Associate Professor at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran. She earned her Ph.D. in Nursing Education from the same institution, where she also completed her M.Sc. and B.Sc. in Nursing. Dr. Molazem’s research primarily focuses on patient-centered care, digital health innovations, psychosocial support, and nursing education reform, with a special emphasis on cardiovascular and oncology patient management. Her scholarly contributions include notable 2025 studies such as the evaluation of smartphone-based self-help interventions for patients with acute coronary syndrome and the clinical application of Citrus aurantium aromatherapy to reduce chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in breast cancer patients. She has also published influential qualitative research on caregiving burdens, patient handoffs, and family-centered care models, widely recognized for advancing evidence-based practice and holistic healthcare. Dr. Molazem has received several institutional awards for research excellence and innovation in nursing education and has actively participated in national and international conferences promoting interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare. Beyond her research, she serves on editorial boards and peer-review panels for several reputable scientific journals in nursing and clinical health sciences, contributing to the global dissemination of best practices in patient care and digital health integration. Through her academic leadership and commitment to compassionate, evidence-driven practice, Dr. Zahra Molazem continues to shape the evolving landscape of modern healthcare education and clinical research. She has 121 citations from 11 documents with an h-index of 4.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID
Publications

1. Khawar, M. B., Abbasi, M. H., Hussain, S., Riaz, M., Rafiq, M., Mehmood, R., et al. (2021). Psychological impacts of COVID-19 and satisfaction from online classes: Disturbance in daily routine and prevalence of depression, stress, and anxiety among students of Pakistan.

2. Fahim, S., Nisar, N., Ahmad, Z., Asghar, Z., Said, A., Atif, S., Ghani, N., Qureshi, N., et al. (2019). Managing paper and pulp industry by-product waste utilizing sludge as a bio-fertilizer.

3. Nisar, N., Mehmood, S., Nisar, H., Jamil, S., Ahmad, Z., Ghani, N., Oladipo, A. A., et al. (2018). Brassicaceae family oil methyl esters blended with ultra-low sulphur diesel fuel (ULSD): Comparison of fuel properties with fuel standards.

4. Abbasi, A. M., David, K., Idnan, M., Ahmad, Z., & Qureshi, R. (2018). Effect of time-lapse administration of Panadol (Paracetamol) on spleen and kidney functions of adult albino mice. RADS Journal of Biological Research & Applied Sciences.

5. Khawar, T. M. B., Fatima, N., Abbasi, M. H., Sheikh, N., & Amaan, A. N. (Year not specified). Role and molecular mechanisms of lysosomes and cathepsins in neuropathology and aging: New insights.

Adrianna Piasek | Environmental Health | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Adrianna Piasek | Environmental Health | Best Researcher Award

Research Lead | Warsaw University of Technology | Poland

Dr. Adrianna Maria Piasek is a Research Lead at EcoBean and an industrial PhD candidate at the Warsaw University of Technology, where she also earned her BSc and MSc degrees in Biotechnology. Her research focuses on sustainable biotechnology, particularly the valorization of spent coffee grounds and microalgae-based production of bioactive compounds for cosmetic and biomedical applications. Dr. Piasek’s scientific contributions bridge biotechnology, chemistry, and process engineering, emphasizing green extraction methods, antioxidant recovery, and 3D skin model development. She has authored and co-authored seven peer-reviewed publications in journals indexed by Scopus and Web of Science, including Current Medicinal Chemistry, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, and Waste and Biomass Valorization. In addition to her publications, she co-authored a book chapter on the medicinal potential of anandamide and contributed to a patent application on comprehensive coffee waste processing. Dr. Piasek’s innovative research has earned her conference presentation awards and recognition within the sustainable bioprocessing community. She has collaborated with renowned institutions such as the Ruđer Bošković Institute and the Polish Academy of Sciences, strengthening international partnerships in biotechnology and materials research. A member of the Groupe Polyphenols since 2025, Dr. Piasek is also actively involved in mentoring young scientists and promoting circular economy principles through industrial R&D. Her ongoing work continues to advance the interface of biotechnology and health sciences, contributing to the development of environmentally responsible innovations for industrial and medical use. She has 23 citations from 7 documents with an h-index of 4.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Publications

1. Piasek, A. M., Bardadyn, P., Trojan, Z., Jelonek, K., Wysocki, Ł., Kobiela, T., & Sobiepanek, A. (2025). Research on spent coffee grounds: From oil extraction to its potential application in cosmetics. Waste and Biomass Valorization.

2. Adewale, O. O., Wińska, P., Piasek, A., & Cieśla, J. (2024). The potential of plant polysaccharides and chemotherapeutic drug combinations in the suppression of breast cancer. International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

3. Wysocki, Ł., Adamczuk, P., Bardadyn, P., Gabor, A., Jelonek, K., Kudelska, M., Kukuć, M., Piasek, A., Pietras, M., Słomka, M., et al. (2024). Development of lactic acid production from coffee grounds hydrolysate by fermentation with Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus. Journal of Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology.

4. Piasek, A. M. (2022). Aptamer-based advances in skin cancer research. Current Medicinal Chemistry.

5. Piasek, A. M. (2021). Zastosowanie metabolitów pozyskanych z mikroalg w biomedycynie, a w szczególności w diagnostyce i terapii chorób nowotworowych. In Zagadnienia aktualnie poruszane przez młodych naukowców (Vol. 19). Wydawnictwo Naukowe Tygiel.

Aleksandra Lavrikova | Environmental Health | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Aleksandra Lavrikova | Environmental Health | Best Researcher Award

Post – doctoral at EPFL | Switzerland

Aleksandra Lavrikova is a highly promising early-career researcher with strong academic and professional achievements that make her a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With a solid background in biotechnology, nanotechnology, and biophysics, and currently serving as a postdoctoral researcher at the Swiss Plasma Center, EPFL, she has developed expertise in advanced experimental methods and interdisciplinary plasma research. Her work focuses on microbial inactivation, biofilm eradication, wastewater treatment, and plasma–cell interactions, resulting in multiple publications in reputed international journals. She has secured independent grants as a principal investigator, received awards for scientific excellence, and actively participated in international collaborations, reflecting leadership potential and global engagement. While her profile could be further strengthened through more high-impact publications, expanded translational research, and greater leadership in multi-institutional projects, her contributions to plasma science and biomedical applications already demonstrate significant impact, making her a deserving candidate for recognition.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile 

Education

Aleksandra Lavrikova’s educational journey reflects a strong interdisciplinary foundation that has shaped her into a skilled and versatile researcher. She began her studies with a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology from the Moscow State Academy of Veterinary Medicine and Biotechnology where she gained essential knowledge in life sciences and laboratory research. Building upon this, she pursued a Master’s degree in Nanotechnology and Microsystems Technology at the People’s Friendship University of Russia  equipping her with advanced technical and analytical skills at the intersection of biology and engineering. Her academic path culminated in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Biophysics from Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovakia where she specialized in the study of plasma interactions with biological systems and microbial biofilms. This progression from biotechnology through nanotechnology to biophysics demonstrates her commitment to integrating multiple disciplines, enabling her to conduct impactful research with both scientific depth and practical relevance.

Experience

Aleksandra Lavrikova’s professional experience highlights her steady growth as a dedicated and innovative researcher in the fields of microbiology, plasma science, and biophysics. She began her career as a laboratory assistant at the Gamaleya Research Center of Epidemiology and Microbiology in Moscow where she gained valuable hands-on experience in molecular biology, microbiological analysis, and cell culture techniques. This early role laid the groundwork for her future focus on microbial systems and their interactions with novel technologies. Following the completion of her PhD, she advanced to her current role as a postdoctoral researcher at the Swiss Plasma Center, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). In this prestigious position, she has been actively involved in interdisciplinary projects exploring cold atmospheric plasma applications for microbial inactivation, biofilm control, and environmental treatments. Her international research collaborations, grant leadership, and contributions to high-impact publications reflect her growing independence and recognition as a promising researcher.

Research Interest

Aleksandra Lavrikova’s research interests lie at the intersection of microbiology, biophysics, and plasma science, with a focus on innovative solutions to biomedical and environmental challenges. She is particularly interested in the microbiological analysis of single cells, fungi, and bacterial biofilms, as well as the study of plasma–cell interactions at the molecular and cellular levels. Her expertise spans advanced molecular biology techniques, including PCR, protein and RNA isolation, immunoblotting, and flow cytometry, alongside spectroscopy and microscopy methods for in-depth characterization. A key area of her research involves the use of cold atmospheric plasmas and plasma-activated liquids for microbial inactivation, biofilm eradication, and wastewater treatment, highlighting the practical applications of her work in both healthcare and environmental sustainability. She is also engaged in studying mechanisms such as cell membrane integrity, DNA damage, and reactive oxygen species accumulation. This multidisciplinary approach demonstrates her commitment to advancing plasma-based technologies for global benefit.

Award and Honor

Aleksandra Lavrikova has received notable awards and honors that reflect her excellence, innovation, and growing recognition in the scientific community. she was a finalist in the Falling Walls Lab (Slovakia) competition, which highlights breakthrough ideas with global impact, underscoring the novelty and societal relevance of her research. The same year, she was awarded a Short Term Scientific Mission Grant to pursue collaborative research on cold plasma interactions with bacterial biofilms at University College Dublin, Ireland, demonstrating her active engagement in international scientific exchange. She also earned the Ján D. Skalný Prize for Best Oral Presentation at the Symposium on Application of Plasma Processes recognizing her outstanding ability to communicate complex research effectively. In addition, she successfully secured multiple competitive research grants as principal investigator during her PhD studies, which highlights her leadership and independence in scientific inquiry.

Research Skill

Aleksandra Lavrikova possesses a broad and advanced set of research skills that enable her to conduct interdisciplinary investigations in microbiology, plasma science, and biophysics. She is proficient in microbiological techniques, including the cultivation and analysis of bacteria, fungi, and biofilms, as well as in vitro manipulations involving virus-infected eukaryotic cells. Her expertise extends to molecular biology methods such as PCR, protein and RNA isolation, electrophoresis, and immunoblotting, which allow her to explore cellular mechanisms at the molecular level. She is skilled in spectroscopic and microscopic analyses, including fluorescence spectroscopy, absorption studies, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and fluorescence microscopy, for detailed cellular and structural characterization. Additionally, she has experience with flow cytometry and animal experiments, further strengthening her versatility. A key aspect of her skill set is her ability to operate cold plasma discharges and study plasma–cell interactions, enabling innovative applications in biomedical and environmental research.

Publications Top Notes

Title: Flow cytometry study of Escherichia coli treated with plasma-activated water: confirming the absence of the viable but non-culturable state in bacteria
Authors: Agus, Rita; Avino, Fabio; Lavrikova, Aleksandra; Myers, Brayden; Furno, Ivo

Title: Non-thermal plasma coupled with photocatalysis for indoor air treatment at high air flow rates: effects on VOCs and bio-aerosols
Authors: Vazquez, Thomas; Lavrikova, Aleksandra; Wiedermann, Dalimír; Babic, Jan; Palko, Miroslav; Palko, Maroš; Machala, Zdenko

Title: Organic wastewater decontamination by cold plasmas – Improving bacteria inactivation by post-plasma treatment
Authors: Lavrikova, Aleksandra; Avino, Fabio; Agus, Rita; Furno, Ivo

Title: Eradication of single- and mixed-species biofilms of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus by pulsed streamer corona discharge cold atmospheric plasma
Authors: Lavrikova, Aleksandra; Janda, Mário; Bujdáková, Helena; Hensel, Karol

Title: Plasma-activated water retains antimicrobial properties against Escherichia coli after 72 h of storage
Authors: Agus, Rita; Pipoz, Laurens; Avino, Fabio; Lavrikova, Aleksandra; Myers, Brayden; Furno, Ivo

Conclusion

Aleksandra Lavrikova shows strong potential and already has a remarkable track record for an early-career researcher. Her multidisciplinary expertise in biotechnology, nanotechnology, and plasma biophysics, combined with her successful independent grants, peer-reviewed publications, and international collaborations, make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. She stands out particularly for her contributions to plasma applications in microbiology, biofilms, and environmental treatment, which have both scientific and societal relevance. With continued growth in high-impact publications, expanded leadership roles, and stronger translational applications of her work, she has the potential to become an internationally recognized leader in her field. At her current trajectory, she is highly suitable for recognition, and awarding her would not only honor her achievements but also encourage further groundbreaking contributions to science.

Somayeh Zangiabadi | Environmental Health | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Somayeh Zangiabadi | Environmental Health | Best Researcher Award 

scientific researcher at Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Iran

Dr. Somayeh Zangiabadi is a distinguished researcher in biodiversity, plant ecology, and conservation science, with significant contributions through research, education, and public outreach. With a Ph.D. in Plant Systematics, she has authored 18 peer-reviewed publications, participated in over 20 research projects, and presented at numerous national and international conferences. Her expertise in species distribution modelling and GIS has informed vital conservation efforts, particularly concerning climate change impacts and endangered species protection. She has led workshops, mentored students, and engaged local communities in environmental awareness through exhibitions and educational programs. Her collaborations with international organizations and her practical contributions to marine and terrestrial conservation underscore her scientific and societal impact. While expanding publications in top-tier journals and global collaborations could further enhance her reach, her existing achievements mark her as a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with strong leadership potential in environmental research and sustainability.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile

Education

Dr. Somayeh Zangiabadi holds a Ph.D. in Biology–Plant Systematics from Tarbiat Modares University, where her dissertation focused on the ecological study and distribution modeling of Amygdalus eburnea in Iran, resulting in multiple peer-reviewed publications. She completed her M.Sc. in Plant Sciences (Biosystematics and Ecology) at Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, where she researched canopy mapping in juniper forests using satellite data and contributed to several scientific articles and conference presentations. Her academic foundation began with a B.Sc. in Plant Biology from the same university, where she was actively involved in scientific writing and community engagement. Further enhancing her research skills, she completed two specialized international courses—one in Marine Ecology at the University of Palermo, Italy, and another in Species Distribution Modeling at the Forest Science and Technology Centre of Catalonia, Spain. These experiences enriched her expertise in climate impact research, conservation biology, GIS, and ecological data analysis, forming a strong multidisciplinary educational background.

Experience

Dr. Somayeh Zangiabadi possesses extensive professional experience in biodiversity conservation, ecological research, and academic teaching. She has worked as a research and technical assistant on more than 14 national and international projects, collaborating with institutions such as the UN-GEF, JICA-Japan, and Iranian environmental agencies. Her roles involved experimental design, species distribution modeling, ecological field surveys, GIS analysis, and public engagement activities. Dr. Zangiabadi has contributed to the conservation of coral reefs, sea turtles, and plant species across various ecosystems in Iran, often integrating scientific research with community-based education. In academia, she has served as a lead instructor for over 25 undergraduate courses at institutions including Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman and Payame Noor University. She has also mentored graduate students and conducted over 20 workshops for researchers, students, and the public, emphasizing environmental awareness and conservation. Her diverse experience bridges applied research, teaching, and grassroots environmental action, highlighting her professional versatility and impact.

Research Interest

Dr. Somayeh Zangiabadi’s research interests lie at the intersection of biodiversity conservation, plant ecology, and environmental sustainability, with a strong emphasis on species distribution modeling (SDM) and the ecological impacts of climate change. She is particularly focused on understanding how environmental changes affect the distribution and survival of endangered and endemic plant and animal species. Her work integrates advanced geospatial tools such as GIS and remote sensing to model habitat suitability and propose conservation strategies across vulnerable ecosystems. She is also deeply engaged in marine ecology, studying coral reef health, marine turtle conservation, and ecosystem restoration. Dr. Zangiabadi is committed to translating ecological research into policy-relevant insights and public education, bridging science and community awareness. Her interdisciplinary approach combines field research, data analysis, and participatory education to address current global challenges such as biodiversity loss, habitat degradation, and climate vulnerability, with the aim of fostering sustainable ecosystem management and resilience.

Award and Honor

Dr. Somayeh Zangiabadi has received notable awards and honors in recognition of her outstanding contributions to ecological research and conservation. She has been awarded two prestigious Visiting Researcher Grants by the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology of Iran—one for conducting advanced studies in Species Distribution Modeling at the Forest Science and Technology Centre of Catalonia, Spain, and another for marine ecology research at the University of Palermo, Italy. In addition, she received a Bio-Bridge Initiative (BBI) grant from the Convention on Biological Diversity for her international collaborative project on habitat modeling and community awareness for endangered species conservation. Her work has also been acknowledged through invitations to present at globally recognized platforms such as the International Sea Turtle Symposium and various national environmental conferences. These awards reflect her dedication, scientific excellence, and growing international reputation in the fields of biodiversity conservation, climate change ecology, and environmental education.

Research Skill

Dr. Somayeh Zangiabadi possesses a broad and refined set of research skills that span ecological fieldwork, data analysis, and environmental modeling. She is highly proficient in Species Distribution Modeling (SDM) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), using tools such as R programming, ENVI, IDRISI, SPSS, PAST, and CANOCO to analyze ecological data and predict habitat suitability under climate change scenarios. Her skills also include remote sensing, ecological niche modeling, plant community analysis, and biodiversity indexing. Dr. Zangiabadi has designed and executed complex research projects involving flora and fauna, particularly in arid and marine ecosystems. She has hands-on experience in ecological sampling, soil analysis, and marine biodiversity assessment, including coral reef and sea turtle monitoring. Her ability to integrate scientific research with community-based education and outreach enhances the practical relevance of her work. These skills make her adept at linking empirical data with conservation planning, contributing to sustainable ecosystem management and policy development.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Coral reefs health status variation around Kish Island before and after 2015 bleaching in the Persian Gulf: A case study of global warming effects
    Authors: Askari-Hesnia, M., Bolouki-Kourandeh, M., Zangiabadi, S., Rastgoo, A.R., Golestaninasab, M., Fenner, D.
    Year: 2025

Conclusion

Dr. Somayeh Zangiabadi is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award owing to her deep commitment to ecological research, biodiversity preservation, and environmental education. Her diverse contributions span rigorous academic research, conservation implementation, community outreach, and capacity-building in sustainability science. Her active participation in national and international research projects, combined with her role as a mentor and environmental advocate, reflects both scientific excellence and social responsibility. With continued international collaboration and strategic publication enhancement, she is poised to play a pivotal leadership role in the global environmental science community.