Mehdi Shahsavan| Animal Sciences| Young Scientist Award

Posted on by ScienceFather

Mr. Mehdi Shahsavan| Animal Sciences| Young Scientist Award

Mehdi Shahsavan, based in Shiraz, Iran, is a passionate researcher specializing in Animal Science and Non-ruminant Nutrition. With a B.Sc. from Shiraz University and an M.Sc. from Khuzestan Agricultural and Natural Resources University, he focuses on poultry immunology, microbiology, and alternative feed additives. His work integrates laboratory techniques like ELISA and spectroscopy with software proficiency in SAS and feed formulation tools. Mehdi’s dedication to animal welfare and sustainable nutrition is evident in his hands-on research and journal contributions. He brings leadership, collaboration, and strong communication skills to his roles.

Profile

Scholar

🎓 Education

Master’s Degree: Agricultural and Natural Resources University of Khuzestan (2014-2017), Thesis: Effects of Silybum Marianum oil on broiler performance. GPA: 14.94/20. Bachelor’s Degree: Shiraz University (2010-2014), Animal Science, GPA: 13.09/20. Proficient in advanced instrumentation (e.g., ELISA, spectrophotometry) and animal behavior analysis techniques.

💼 Experience

Part-Time Research Assistant (2021–2023): Assisted Ph.D. candidates in experimental design and data analysis. Research Assistant (2010–2017): Supported Master’s and Ph.D. projects in poultry science, physiology, and nutrition optimization. Hands-on expertise in conducting experiments, collecting data, and preparing scientific reports.

🏆 Awards and Honors

Recognized for exceptional teamwork in student associations (2010-2011). IELTS Band Score: 6.5 (2022), demonstrating international communication competence. Reviewer for World’s Poultry Science Journal (2024), contributing expertise to global research.

🔬 Research Focus

Non-Ruminant Nutrition: Formulation of antibiotic-free diets with natural additives. Poultry Science: Immune system enhancement, microbiology, and growth performance. Animal Welfare: Studying stress responses under high-density conditions. Physiology: Gut tissue analysis and organ-weight studies using ELISA and plasma samples.

Conclusion

With a strong foundation in research, technical expertise, and a track record of impactful publications, Mehdi Shahsavan is a promising candidate for the Young Scientist Award. His dedication to exploring innovative feed additives and stress reduction strategies aligns well with current challenges in sustainable animal nutrition. By addressing minor areas of improvement, Mehdi is poised to make significant contributions to the advancement of animal science.

Publication

  1. Title: Effect of dietary inclusion of Silybum marianum oil extraction byproduct on growth performance, immune response and cecal microbial population of broiler chicken
    Year: 2021
    Authors: M Shahsavan, S Salari, M Ghorbani

 

  1. Title: Mode of action of milk thistle (Silybum marianum) derivations in poultry: intestine–liver axis, immunity, and woody breast muscle disorder
    Year: 2024
    Author: M Shahsavan

 

  1. Title: PSII-24 Effect of supplemental guanidinoacetic acid in low energy diets with different forms of pellet and mash on growth performance, intestinal morphology and some blood …
    Year: 2024
    Authors: M Toghyani, TA Hossein, M Shahsavan

 

 

 

 

Afif Ben Mahmoud | Genomics | Excellence in Research

Posted on by ScienceFather

 Dr. Afif Ben Mahmoud | Genomics | Excellence in Research  

 Dr at Qatar Biomedical Research Institute,  Qatar

Afif Ben Mahmoud, Ph.D., is a Senior Research Associate at the Neurological Disorders Research Center, Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, in Doha, Qatar. A Tunisian national, Dr. Ben Mahmoud specializes in human molecular genetics and has dedicated over ten years to researching neurological disorders and genetic diseases. He holds a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences and has made significant contributions to understanding neurodevelopmental disorders through innovative research techniques and mentoring graduate students. His work emphasizes the identification of genetic factors in various disorders, making him a vital asset to the scientific community in Qatar and beyond.

Profile

Scopus

Scholar

Education 🎓

Dr. Ben Mahmoud earned his Ph.D. in Biological Sciences (Human Molecular Genetics) from the Faculty of Sciences of Sfax, University of Sfax, Tunisia, in 2015. Prior to this, he obtained a Master’s degree in Genetics and Biodiversity from the Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Monastir, Tunisia, in 2009. His academic journey began with an Engineering degree in Animal Production from the Higher School of Agronomy of Mateur, University of Carthage, Tunisia, in 2007. This solid educational foundation has equipped him with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in his research endeavors.

Experience 💼

Since 2019, Dr. Ben Mahmoud has served as a Senior Research Associate at the Qatar Biomedical Research Institute, where he identifies and characterizes candidate genes for neurodevelopmental disorders by analyzing whole exome and whole genome sequencing data. Before this, he was a Postdoctoral Researcher at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of UAE, from 2016 to 2018, focusing on genomic and cellular studies of autosomal recessive disorders. He has also taught cell biology and genetics at various higher education institutions in Tunisia, contributing to the academic development of future scientists.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Dr. Ben Mahmoud has received recognition for his contributions to genetic research and education. He participated in the development of cell lines using CRISPR-Cas9 technology at UAEU, which aims to better understand diseases. His work has been featured in multiple peer-reviewed publications, establishing him as an authority in his field. He has been actively involved in mentoring students, fostering the next generation of researchers, and enhancing the academic environment in which he works.

Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Ben Mahmoud’s research primarily focuses on neurological disorders and human genetic diseases, specifically identifying the genetic basis of neurodevelopmental disorders. He employs advanced techniques such as next-generation sequencing and molecular biology methods to analyze candidate genes. His recent studies aim to elucidate the cellular mechanisms behind disease-causing mutations, contributing to the broader understanding of genetic disorders. Dr. Ben Mahmoud’s work is instrumental in developing targeted therapeutic strategies, enhancing the potential for personalized medicine in treating complex genetic conditions.

Conclusion 📝

Dr. Afif Ben Mahmoud exemplifies excellence in research through his substantial contributions to the field of neurological disorders and human genetics. His extensive experience, technical expertise, and commitment to mentorship position him as a strong candidate for the Excellence in Research Award. By addressing potential areas for improvement, such as broadening his research focus and enhancing public engagement, Dr. Ben Mahmoud could further amplify his impact within the scientific community and beyond. His ongoing work promises to advance our understanding of complex genetic diseases, making him a valuable asset to the field.

Publications Top Notes

  • Antagonist effects of Bacillus spp. strains against Fusarium graminearum for protection of durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. subsp. durum)
    • Authors: I Zalila-Kolsi, AB Mahmoud, H Ali, S Sellami, Z Nasfi, S Tounsi, …
    • Journal: Microbiological Research, 2016
    • Pages: 148-158

 

  • Mitochondrial DNA mutations and polymorphisms in asthenospermic infertile men
    • Authors: S Baklouti-Gargouri, M Ghorbel, A Ben Mahmoud, E Mkaouar-Rebai, …
    • Journal: Molecular Biology Reports, 2013
    • Volume/Pages: 40, 4705-4712

 

  • A novel mutation MT-COIII m.9267G>C and MT-COI m.5913G>A mutation in mitochondrial genes in a Tunisian family with maternally inherited diabetes and deafness (MIDD)
    • Authors: M Tabebi, E Mkaouar-Rebai, M Mnif, F Kallabi, AB Mahmoud, WB Saad, …
    • Journal: Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 2015
    • Volume/Pages: 459(3), 353-360

 

  • Genetics of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism—Human and mouse genes, inheritance, oligogenicity, and genetic counseling
    • Authors: ED Louden, A Poch, HG Kim, A Ben-Mahmoud, SH Kim, LC Layman
    • Journal: Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, 2021
    • Volume: 534, 111334

 

  • Identification of a novel m.9588G>A missense mutation in the mitochondrial COIII gene in asthenozoospermic Tunisian infertile men
    • Authors: S Baklouti-Gargouri, M Ghorbel, A Ben Mahmoud, E Mkaouar-Rebai, …
    • Journal: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics, 2014
    • Volume/Pages: 31, 595-600

 

  • A novel aberrant splice site mutation in COL27A1 is responsible for Steel syndrome and extension of the phenotype to include hearing loss
    • Authors: N Gariballa, A Ben-Mahoud, M Komara, AM Al-Shamsi, …
    • Journal: American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A, 2017
    • Volume/Pages: 173(5), 1257-1263

 

  • Whole mitochondrial genome screening of a family with maternally inherited diabetes and deafness (MIDD) associated with retinopathy: A putative haplotype associated to MIDD and its phenotypic implications
    • Authors: M Tabebi, N Charfi, F Kallabi, O Alila-Fersi, AB Mahmoud, A Tlili, …
    • Journal: Journal of Diabetes and its Complications, 2017
    • Volume/Pages: 31(1), 253-259

 

  • Two novel mutations in COII and tRNAHis mitochondrial genes in asthenozoospermic infertiles men
    • Authors: BG Siwar, G Myriam, BM Afif, MR Emna, C Nozha, S Afifa, F Faiza, …
    • Journal: Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, 2014
    • Volume/Pages: 450(1), 610-615

 

  • A novel m.6307A>G mutation in the mitochondrial COXI gene in asthenozoospermic infertile men
    • Authors: S Baklouti-Gargouri, M Ghorbel, A Ben Mahmoud, E Mkaouar-Rebai, …
    • Journal: Molecular Reproduction and Development, 2013
    • Volume/Pages: 80(7), 581-587

 

  • Bacillus amyloliquefaciens: Harnessing Its Potential for Industrial, Medical, and Agricultural Applications—A Comprehensive Review
    • Authors: I Zalila-Kolsi, A Ben-Mahmoud, R Al-Barazie
    • Journal: Microorganisms, 2023
    • Volume/Pages: 11(9), 2215

 

  • Novel cases of Tunisian patients with mutations in the gene encoding 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 and a founder effect
    • Authors: BB Rhouma, F Kallabi, N Mahfoudh, AB Mahmoud, RT Engeli, H Kamoun, …
    • Journal: The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 2017
    • Volume/Pages: 165, 86-94

 

  • Eif2b3 mutants recapitulate phenotypes of vanishing white matter disease and validate novel disease alleles in zebrafish
    • Authors: YR Lee, SH Kim, A Ben-Mahmoud, OH Kim, TI Choi, KH Lee, B Ku, J Eum, …
    • Journal: Human Molecular Genetics, 2021
    • Volume/Pages: 30(5), 331-342