Aleksandra Lavrikova | Environmental Health | Best Researcher Award

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 

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.

Juheli Sadhukhan | Public Health | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Juheli Sadhukhan | Public Health | Best Researcher Award

Research Scholar at University of Calcutta, India

Juheli Sadhukhan, currently a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Calcutta, stands out as a promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her impactful contributions to health-focused chemical research. With a strong academic foundation, including GATE and CSIR-NET qualifications (AIR 27), her work emphasizes the synthesis of novel heterocyclic compounds for anticancer and antileishmanial applications. She has published six research papers in reputed journals and earned international recognition, including the RSC Best Poster Award at ICCHD-2025. Her research also includes the development of fluorescent probes for selective metal ion detection and live-cell imaging. Though still early in her career, her dedication to scientific advancement, active participation in academic events, and RSC membership demonstrate a commitment to growth and excellence. Enhancing citation impact, engaging in international collaborations, and pursuing patents or industry ties could further elevate her profile. Overall, she exemplifies a dedicated and innovative researcher deserving of recognition.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile

Education

Juheli Sadhukhan has built a strong academic foundation rooted in prestigious Indian institutions. She pursued her education at the University of Calcutta and NIT Durgapur, both renowned for their academic rigor and research emphasis. Demonstrating academic excellence early in her career, she qualified for both GATE 2020 and CSIR-NET 2020, securing an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 27 in the latter—an achievement that highlights her deep understanding of chemical sciences. Her academic journey has been complemented by consistent participation in specialized training programs and workshops, including hands-on experience in single-crystal X-ray diffraction, which has enriched her technical skillset. Juheli’s educational background is not only marked by strong theoretical knowledge but also by a proactive approach to applying this knowledge through research. Her formal education has provided her with the critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical capabilities necessary to engage in complex interdisciplinary research, particularly in drug development and molecular diagnostics.

Experience

Juheli Sadhukhan’s professional experience as a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Calcutta reflects her deep engagement in interdisciplinary scientific research, particularly in the fields of medicinal and organic chemistry. Her ongoing work involves the design and synthesis of novel heterocyclic compounds aimed at developing effective anticancer and antileishmanial drugs, contributing directly to solutions for pressing global health challenges. She has also worked on developing fluorescent probes for metal ion detection and endogenous H₂S sensing, demonstrating expertise in both experimental and computational approaches. Juheli has presented her research at national and international conferences, including ICCHD-2025, where she earned the RSC Best Poster Award. Her hands-on involvement in laboratory work, combined with participation in advanced workshops such as single-crystal X-ray diffraction, underscores her technical proficiency and research versatility. Her experience is further enhanced by RSC membership, which keeps her connected to global developments in chemical sciences and strengthens her collaborative potential.

Research Interest

Juheli Sadhukhan’s research interests lie at the intersection of organic synthesis, medicinal chemistry, and molecular diagnostics, with a strong focus on addressing critical health challenges such as cancer and leishmaniasis. Her primary area of investigation involves the design and synthesis of novel heterocyclic compounds to evaluate their anticancer and antileishmanial properties, aiming to contribute to the development of more effective and targeted therapeutics. She is particularly interested in the structure–activity relationship (SAR) of small molecules and their interactions with biological targets. In addition to therapeutic research, she explores the development of fluorescent probes for the selective and sensitive detection of biologically relevant species such as metal ions (e.g., Pd²⁺, Hg²⁺) and endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), incorporating live-cell imaging techniques. Her interdisciplinary approach blends spectroscopic analysis, computational modeling, and cellular biology, offering a comprehensive platform for both diagnostic innovation and drug discovery in modern health science.

Award and Honor

Juheli Sadhukhan has earned notable recognition for her academic and research excellence through various awards and honors. One of her most distinguished achievements is receiving the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) Best Poster Award at the prestigious International Conference on Chemistry for Health, Development and Environment (ICCHD-2025), which highlighted the novelty and impact of her research on drug discovery and diagnostics. Her academic merit is further demonstrated by her success in highly competitive national-level examinations, including qualifying for GATE 2020 and the CSIR-NET 2020 with an outstanding All India Rank (AIR) of 27, placing her among the top emerging scholars in chemical sciences. These accomplishments reflect her dedication, innovation, and ability to conduct research that meets international standards. Participation in various academic conferences, workshops, and technical training programs also exemplifies her ongoing commitment to academic excellence and scientific growth, reinforcing her position as a rising talent in the research community.

Research Skill

Juheli Sadhukhan possesses a diverse and well-rounded set of research skills that span across synthetic organic chemistry, analytical techniques, and biomedical applications. She has expertise in the design and synthesis of heterocyclic compounds, with a focus on their biological evaluation for anticancer and antileishmanial activities. Her hands-on proficiency in spectroscopic methods—such as NMR, UV-Vis, and fluorescence spectroscopy—supports her ability to characterize complex molecular structures and probe biological interactions. Juheli is also skilled in live-cell imaging techniques and the development of fluorescent sensors for detecting biologically relevant ions like Pd²⁺ and Hg²⁺. In addition, she integrates computational modeling into her workflow to predict molecular behavior and optimize drug-target interactions. Her experience extends to working with protein-binding studies, particularly using serum albumin, and DNA-binding assays for GC-rich regions. These technical competencies, coupled with a keen analytical mindset, make her an adept and versatile researcher in modern chemical biology and health science.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Recognition of GC base pairs of B-DNA by coumarin-based benzimidazopyrimidines
    Authors: Juheli Sadhukhan, Pabitra Mandal, Smritimoy Pramanik, Subhajit Guria, Alomgir Shah Kabir, Debojyoti Das, Susanta Sekhar Adhikari
    Year: 2025
    Citation: DOI: 10.1039/D4OB02055C

  • Title: A Novel Quinoline‐Based Turn‐On Fluorescent Probe for Rapid Sensing of Endogenous H₂S at the Intracellular Level
    Authors: Tanushree Mishra, Subhajit Guria, Juheli Sadhukhan, Debojyoti Das, Alomgir Shah Kabir, Subhajit Ghosh, Susanta Sekhar Adhikari
    Year: 2025
    Citation: DOI: 10.1002/slct.202502099

  • Title: Naphthalimide‐Triazole Affixed Rhodamine Probe for FRET‐Based Selective Detection of Pd²⁺ Ion in Living Cells
    Authors: Subhajit Guria, Alomgir Shah Kabir, Juheli Sadhukhan, Somnath Khanra, Debasis Das, Susanta Adhikari
    Year: 2025
    Citation: DOI: 10.1002/ajoc.202500082

  • Title: Synthesis of Novel Coumarin-Appended Dihydrothiopyrimidinones and Evaluation of Their Binding Interactions with Bovine Serum Albumin
    Authors: Susanta Sekhar Adhikari, Debojyoti Das, Juheli Sadhukhan, Pabitra Mandal, Smritimoy Pramanik, Alomgir Shah Kabir
    Year: 2025
    Citation: DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1775488

  • Title: Fluorometric detection of a chemical warfare agent mimic (DCP) using a simple hydroxybenzothiazole–diaminomaleonitrile based chemodosimeter
    Authors: Manas Kumar Das, Tanushree Mishra, Subhajit Guria, Debojyoti Das, Juheli Sadhukhan, Sushmita Sarker, Koushik Dutta, Arghya Adhikary, Dipankar Chattopadhyay, Susanta Sekhar Adhikari
    Year: 2023
    Citation: DOI: 10.1039/D2NJ04260F

  • Title: Small-Molecule Probe for Sensing Serum Albumin with Consequential Self-Assembly as a Fluorescent Organic Nanoparticle for Bioimaging and Drug-Delivery Applications
    Authors: Subhajit Guria, Avijit Ghosh, Priyanka Upadhyay, Manas Kumar Das, Tanushree Mishra, Arghya Adhikary, Susanta Adhikari
    Year: 2020
    Citation: DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.0c00146

Conclusion

Juheli Sadhukhan exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated and emerging research professional whose innovative work in health-related chemical sciences contributes meaningfully to diagnostic and therapeutic development. Her solid academic background, notable conference recognition, and focused publication record establish her as a rising talent in biomedical research. While there remains room to strengthen her research visibility and leadership footprint, her current achievements and potential trajectory strongly support her nomination for the Best Researcher Award, recognizing her as a dynamic force driving innovation at the intersection of chemistry and health science.