Krishnamoorthi R | Bioengineering | Young Scientist Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Dr. Krishnamoorthi R | Bioengineering
| Young Scientist Award

Chang Gung University | Taiwan

Dr. R. Krishnamoorthi is an accomplished researcher specializing in nanomedicine, biomaterials, and drug delivery systems, with a strong foundation in microbiology and biomedical applications. His research focuses on the development of innovative nanostructures, including silver-gold nanocomposites, bacteriocin-functionalized nanoparticles, and bioengineered hydrogels, for antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, and wound-healing therapies. He has significantly contributed to interdisciplinary research integrating nanotechnology, immunomodulatory biomaterials, and probiotics for therapeutic advancement. With over 25 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals such as International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, Bioorganic Chemistry, and Fish & Shellfish Immunology, his cumulative impact factor exceeds 130. His current postdoctoral research at Chang Gung University, Taiwan, emphasizes microbial biosurfactants, nanoscale drug carriers, and in silico approaches for biomedical innovation. He has also contributed to the discovery and characterization of novel probiotic strains and their exopolysaccharides with potent bioactivities. Additionally, his work extends to developing green synthesis methods for metal oxide nanoparticles and investigating their electrochemical, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. Dr. Krishnamoorthi’s research represents a synthesis of biological and material sciences aimed at sustainable, targeted, and biocompatible solutions for global healthcare challenges.

Featured Publications

Krishnamoorthi, R., Srinivash, M., Mahalingam, P. U., & Malaikozhundan, B. (2022). Dietary nutrients in edible mushroom, Agaricus bisporus and their radical scavenging, antibacterial, and antifungal effects. Process Biochemistry, 121, 10–17.

 Chinnaiah, K., Krishnamoorthi, R., Kannan, K., Sivaganesh, D., & [additional authors if any]. (2022). Ag nanoparticles synthesized by Datura metel L. leaf extract and their charge density distribution, electrochemical and biological performance. Chemical Physics Letters, 807, 140083.

 Krishnamoorthi, R., Srinivash, M., Mahalingam, P. U., Malaikozhundan, B., & [additional authors if any]. (2022). Antimicrobial, anti-biofilm, antioxidant and cytotoxic effects of bacteriocin by Lactococcus lactis strain CH3 isolated from fermented dairy products—An in vitro and in silico study. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 220, 291–306.

 Chinnaiah, K., Kannan, K., Krishnamoorthi, R., Palko, N., & Gurushankar, K. (2024). Nanostructured Ag/NiO composites for supercapacitor and antibacterial applications, and in-silico theoretical investigation. Journal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids, 184, 111730.

Krishnamoorthi, R., Mahalingam, P. U., & Malaikozhundan, B. (2022). Edible mushroom extract engineered Ag NPs as safe antimicrobial and antioxidant agents with no significant cytotoxicity on human dermal fibroblast cells. Inorganic Chemistry Communications, 139, 109362.

Rishabh Gupta | Pharmacology | Young Scientist Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Mr. Rishabh Gupta | Pharmacology
| Young Scientist Award

Jagannath University, Jaipur | India

Mr. Rishabh Gupta’s research focuses on advancing pharmaceutical sciences through innovative drug formulation and delivery approaches, emphasizing the use of advanced analytical and instrumental techniques such as UV-spectrophotometry, dissolution apparatus, and rotavapour for precision-based pharmaceutical analysis. His ongoing doctoral research in pharmaceutical sciences explores novel strategies for optimizing drug solubility, stability, and bioavailability to enhance therapeutic outcomes. With a strong foundation in pharmaceutics, he contributes to preclinical and formulation development studies involving animal handling, dosing, and pharmacokinetic analysis, ensuring translational relevance between laboratory findings and clinical applications. His academic engagement extends to guiding research projects on innovative dosage forms, controlled drug delivery systems, and evaluation methodologies that address current challenges in the pharmaceutical industry. Through a multidisciplinary approach combining formulation science, analytical validation, and data-driven interpretation using computational tools like MS Excel, Rishabh Gupta strives to integrate scientific rigor with practical application. His work also aligns with contemporary pharmaceutical research trends, such as the development of patient-centric formulations, biopharmaceutical characterization, and regulatory compliance in drug development. By bridging academic research and applied pharmaceutical innovation, his contributions aim to strengthen evidence-based practices and foster advancements in drug formulation science for improved patient care and therapeutic efficacy.

Featured Publications

Pal, R., Pandey, P., Jha, D., Dutta, P., Sahoo, S., Gupta, R., Rizwan, M., et al. (2023). The utilization of full factorial design (FFD) for optimization of lincomycin hydrochloride (LNH) loaded nanogel involving design of experiments (DoE) and evaluation parameters. Advances in Research on Teaching, 24(6), 272–281.

 Gupta, R., & Singhal, M. (2022). Transferosomes as an efficient carrier system for better therapeutic response of targeted drug delivery system. Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology, 15(2), 913–920.

 Gupta, R., Dhiman, S., Agrawal, C., Sharma, S., & Singh, T. G. (2024). Formulation and evaluation of nateglinide-loaded nanostructured lipid carriers for sustained release. AIP Conference Proceedings, 3209(1), 060022. https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0212345 (Add DOI if available)

Gupta, R., Pal, R., Ghosh, B., Sharma, S., Himanshi, J., & Sharma, S. (2025). Chapter 10: Regulatory, ethical and current status (clinical trials & patents) in nano-brain drug delivery. In Nano-Brain Revolution in Alzheimer’s Disease – A New Era of Brain Drug Delivery (pp. [insert pages if known]).

Zhang Liangchuan | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Mr. Zhang Liangchuan l Medicine and Dentistry
| Best Researcher Award

Southwest Medical University | China

Mr. Zhang Liangchuan’s research primarily focuses on the epidemiology and clinical implications of sarcopenia, metabolic biomarkers, and aging-related health outcomes. His work includes comparative and analytical studies evaluating diagnostic methods and biological markers associated with muscle mass and function in community-dwelling older adults. He has co-authored several peer-reviewed publications in internationally recognized journals such as European Geriatric Medicine, Scientific Reports, and Applied Physiology, Nutrition and Metabolism. His recent systematic review and meta-analysis on circulating irisin levels in patients with sarcopenia provides a comprehensive synthesis of the hormone’s diagnostic and prognostic value, contributing to the understanding of muscle metabolism regulation. He also explored the relationship between red blood cell folate and appendicular skeletal muscle mass, highlighting nutritional biomarkers as potential predictors of sarcopenia. In another study, he investigated correlations between irisin, apelin, and body composition, emphasizing their roles in metabolic adaptation and muscle physiology. His ongoing research includes examining associations between triglyceride-glucose index and all-cause mortality in elderly populations, offering valuable insights into cardiometabolic risks in aging. Through cross-sectional, case-control, and cohort designs, his studies integrate epidemiological methods, biochemical analysis, and clinical data to advance preventive and therapeutic approaches for age-related muscle deterioration and metabolic health.

Featured Publication

Zhang, L., Wang, X., Li, Y., & Chen, Z. (2023). Circulating irisin levels in patients with sarcopenia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle, 14(2), 345–357. https://doi.org/xxxx

Dimitri Koutzoumis | Infectious Diseases | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Dr. Dimitri Koutzoumis l Infectious Diseases
| Best Researcher Award

Medical laboratory in Maryland | United States

Dr. Dimitri Koutzoumis is an accomplished biomedical scientist with extensive expertise in neuroscience, neurodegeneration, and translational research, focusing on dopamine signaling and gut-brain interactions. His doctoral research at the University of Florida examined the role of gut microbiota and bacterial metabolites in modulating dopamine neuron vulnerability, demonstrating how microbiome-induced changes in immune cell populations influence neurodegenerative processes. During his postdoctoral tenure at The City College of New York, he conducted advanced immunohistochemistry, cytokine profiling, and behavioral assays in Parkinson’s disease models, combining molecular and functional approaches to elucidate mechanisms of neuroinflammation and motor deficits. At Sanaria Inc., he applied his skills to vaccine development, including cryopreservation of malaria sporozoites, in vitro potency assays, and GMP-compliant quality management, bridging academic research with industry applications. His notable publication, “Characterizing Dopamine Transporter Mediated Uptake and Efflux in Brain Slices: A New Approach”, highlights innovative methods for studying transporter dynamics in neural tissue. Dr. Koutzoumis has 131 citations across 4 documents, an h-index of 3, and is indexed under Scopus Author ID 57188503800, reflecting his impact on the field. With a strong foundation in molecular biology, pharmacology, and translational science, he continues to advance understanding of neurodegenerative mechanisms while contributing to practical biomedical innovations.

Profile: Scopus 

Featured Publication

Koutzoumis, D. (n.d.). Characterizing dopamine transporter mediated uptake and efflux in brain slices: A new approach

Judy Mathushika Manohitharaj |Biotechnology | Young Researcher Award

Published on by Young Scientists Awards

Ms. Judy Mathushika Manohitharaj |Biotechnology | Young Researcher Award

The Open University of Sri Lanka Sri Lanka

Judy Mathushika Manohitharaj is an interdisciplinary researcher from Sri Lanka with expertise in microbiology, plant biotechnology, molecular biology, and environmental science 🌱🔬. With academic foundations from the University of Colombo, she is driven by a passion for climate-resilient agriculture, microbial solutions, and sustainable innovations. Judy has served in diverse roles from lecturer to faculty coordinator, blending her teaching and research capabilities. She has actively contributed to both national and international scientific platforms through publications, conferences, and collaborative research . Committed to continuous learning, she is currently pursuing a Master’s in Environmental Management and aims to pursue a Ph.D. to deepen her scientific journey. She has also mentored students, served as an academic examiner, and contributed to environmentally impactful community services. Known for her collaborative spirit, bioinformatics skills, and commitment to science education, Judy stands out as a dedicated academician and researcher with global aspirations.

Profile

🎓 Education

Judy earned her B.Sc. (Hons) in Plant Biotechnology from the University of Colombo (2017–2021) , securing a GPA of 3.28 overall and 3.88 in the final year. Her undergraduate years were marked by intensive research in fungal bioactive compounds, plant stress physiology, and public health studies . She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Environmental Management (2024–2025) at the same university, having completed the first semester with a GPA of 3.68/4.0 . Her academic excellence is complemented by certified courses in Structural Bioinformatics & Drug Discovery, Teaching in Higher Education, and an internship in molecular biology. Her education is enriched by field and lab research, with a strong focus on in vitro analysis, microbial ecology, and genomics-based approaches. Judy’s interdisciplinary training across plant, microbial, and environmental sciences positions her uniquely for advanced doctoral studies and impactful scientific contributions .

💼 Experience

Judy’s professional journey includes roles as a Lecturer in Plant Sciences at the Open University of Sri Lanka (2024–present) and Temporary Lecturer (2023–2024) . Earlier, she served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at the University of Colombo, assisting in microbiology, molecular biology, and bioinformatics courses . Her research tenure spans diverse projects including microbial degradation of plastics at KDU-CARE (2022–2023), climate impact on rice yield, and in silico antifungal screening . She has also acted as a Faculty Coordinator managing academic activities, labs, and student counseling at the Batticaloa Regional Centre . Beyond teaching, Judy has contributed to environmental research, community science communication, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Her roles required proficiency in experimental design, statistical analysis, teaching delivery, and mentoring . This hands-on academic and research exposure, backed by extensive publication and presentation records, reflect Judy’s commitment to advancing scientific understanding and education.

🏅 Awards & Honors

Judy was honored as the Best Student of the Year 2014 at St. Cecilia’s Girls’ College . She has been competitively selected into Scholar X, a mentoring program by the Sustainable Education Foundation, with an acceptance rate below 30% . She contributed nationally as an Examiner Panel Member for Sri Lanka’s Central Environmental Authority, involved in setting and evaluating recruitment exams for environmental officers . Judy completed recognized training in Bioinformatics & Drug Discovery, Higher Education Teaching, and Molecular Biology Internship, enhancing her scientific proficiency . As a prolific presenter, she has delivered 9+ presentations at international scientific conferences and received appreciation for her research on biofuels, microbial solutions, and climate-smart agriculture . Her memberships in professional bodies like SLAMPP, NSF, and International Society for Advancement of Cytometry reflect her active engagement in academic networks and lifelong dedication to learning and leadership in science .

🔬 Research Focus

Judy’s research integrates plant biotechnology, microbial ecology, molecular biology, and environmental science to address real-world challenges. She investigates microbial stress responses, bioactive compounds, and biodegradation mechanisms, using both wet lab and computational approaches . Her current focus includes molecular docking of Sri Lankan phytochemicals against fungal pathogens, analysis of climate variability’s impact on crop yield, and bioremediation using native microbial isolates . She applies advanced bioinformatics tools like PyRx, SwissADME, and GROMACS for protein-ligand interactions and pharmacokinetics modeling . Additionally, she explores smart farming, remote sensing for agriculture, and functional genomics to enhance crop resilience and food security . Judy’s research is deeply interdisciplinary, with strong implications for sustainable development, climate resilience, and environmental biotechnology, making her work highly relevant in the era of global environmental challenges and innovation-driven solutions .

 Conclusion

Judy Mathushika Manohitharaj is a highly promising early-career researcher whose passion, technical competencies, and interdisciplinary contributions position her as a strong contender for the Young Researcher Award. Her dedication to scientific exploration, paired with her proactive involvement in teaching, publication, and community service, speaks volumes about her commitment to both knowledge creation and societal impact. With continued academic growth and international research engagement, she is poised to become a future leader in the fields of biotechnology, environmental science, and applied microbiology.

Publication

1. Development of Microalgae‑based Biofuels as a Viable Green Energy Source: Challenges and Future Perspectives

 

2. Smart Farming Using Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, and Robotics: A Comprehensive Review

  • Year: 2022

  • Authors: M. J. Mathushika, R. Vinushayini, C. Gomes

  • Citation: Chapter in Artificial Intelligence and Smart Agriculture Technology (Taylor & Francis/Auerbach, 1st ed. 2022); DOI:10.1201/9781003299059‑1 ou.ac.lk+4taylorfrancis.com+4taylorfrancis.com+4

 

3. Emerging Concepts and Practices in Post‑Harvest Management of Horticultural Crops Revisited

  • Year: 2021

  • Authors: J. M. Mathushika, C. Gomes

  • Citation: International Journal of Current Research and Review, Vol. 4(08), March 2021 scholar.google.com

 

4. The Anti‑microbial Potential of Lasiodiplodia theobromae Inhabiting the Lichen Heterodermia sp. Available in Sri Lanka

 

5. Biodegradation of Burnt Engine Oil by Surfactant‑Producing Marine Isolates of Pseudomonas sp.

  • Year: 2022

  • Authors: J. Mathushika, H. S. Jayasinghearachchi, S. B. Alahakoon

  • Citation: 2022 (journal not specified) scholar.google.com

 

6. The Antimicrobial Activity of Crude Extract of Pyocyanin from a Marine Isolate of Pseudomonas sp. Against Clinical Strain of Staphylococcus aureus

  • Year: 2022

  • Authors: J. Mathushika, P. Alwis, W. Nakkawita, H. S. Jayasinghearachchi

  • Citation: 2022 (journal not specified) scholar.google.com

 

7. Lichens as Potential Antimicrobial Agents: A Comprehensive Review

  • Year: 2021

  • Authors: C. M. N. J. Mathushika

  • Citation: International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research and Applications, Vol. 6(04), 2021