Camila Canaán-Haden | Biomedical research | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Camila Canaán-Haden | Biomedical research | Best Researcher Award

PhD student, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB)

Camila Canaán-Haden Ayala is a Cuban researcher specializing in cancer immunotherapy. She works at the Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB), focusing on developing therapeutic cancer vaccines and recombinant antigen production. Her expertise includes immune response evaluations using ELISA, FACS, ELISPOT, and cytokine assays in various models. She has contributed to COVID-19 clinical trials and vaccine development, including the Abdala vaccine. Camila has undertaken multiple international research fellowships in Italy, Spain, France, and Mexico. Her work aims to improve immunotherapeutic strategies against cancer by targeting immune checkpoints and optimizing vaccine efficacy.

Profile

Scholar

🎓 Education

Camila holds a Master’s in Contemporary Biotechnology (2019-2022) from CIGB and a Bachelor’s in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (2012-2017) from the University of Havana. She completed postgraduate training in bioinformatics, immunology, protein engineering, and good laboratory practices. Her academic foundation includes mathematics, chemistry, molecular genetics, virology, and clinical biochemistry. She has pursued advanced studies in biomedical research through multiple international pre-doctoral fellowships.

💼 Experience

Since 2017, Camila has been a researcher at CIGB’s Cancer Immunotherapy Lab. She has led projects on immune checkpoint inhibition strategies and therapeutic cancer vaccine development. Her work includes antigen cloning, protein characterization, and immunogenicity studies in animal models. She has evaluated antitumor and anti-metastatic effects of novel therapies and contributed to clinical trials for COVID-19 treatments. She has also worked with antibody phage display libraries to develop scFv antibodies. Her research extends to immune response assessments for cancer and infectious disease vaccines.

🏆 Awards & Honors

Camila has received prestigious short-term pre-doctoral fellowships in Italy (ICGEB-Trieste, University of Padua), Spain (CIBIR), France (Cancer Research Center of Lyon), and Mexico (CICESE), funded by international programs like IILA, Coimbra Group, and EU Ventana Adelante. Her contributions to COVID-19 vaccine research have been recognized in published scientific papers. She has played a key role in Cuban clinical trials for novel immunotherapies and has received funding for advanced research in biotechnology and immunology.

🔍 Research Focus

Camila’s research centers on cancer immunotherapy, focusing on immune checkpoint inhibition and tumor vaccine development. She specializes in recombinant antigen production, immune response characterization, and antibody-based therapies. Her projects involve antigen cloning, protein engineering, and evaluating vaccine efficacy in preclinical models. She has explored the combination of immunotherapies targeting VEGF and PD-L1 pathways to enhance anti-tumor responses. Her work has also contributed to COVID-19 vaccine research, particularly in evaluating immunogenicity and antibody responses.

Conclusion

Camila Canaán-Haden Ayala’s academic and professional trajectory is exceptional, with significant contributions to cancer immunotherapy and vaccine development. Her technical expertise, international exposure, and scientific output make her a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. With a continued focus on expanding her clinical research impact, publishing in high-impact journals, and taking on leadership roles, her potential to drive groundbreaking innovations is evident.

Publication

M Limonta-Fernández, G Chinea-Santiago, AM Martín-Dunn, …
Title: An engineered SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain produced in Pichia pastoris as a candidate vaccine antigen
Year: 2022
Citation: 63

LA Espinosa, Y Ramos, I Andújar, EO Torres, G Cabrera, A Martín, …
Title: In-solution buffer-free digestion allows full-sequence coverage and complete characterization of post-translational modifications of the receptor-binding domain of SARS-CoV-2
Year: 2021
Citation: 15

YA Fleites, J Aguiar, Z Cinza, M Bequet, E Marrero, M Vizcaíno, I Esquivel, …
Title: HeberNasvac, a therapeutic vaccine for chronic hepatitis B, stimulates local and systemic markers of innate immunity: Potential use in SARS-CoV-2 postexposure prophylaxis
Year: 2021
Citation: 10

LA Espinosa, Y Ramos, I Andújar, EO Torres, G Cabrera, A Martín, …
Title: In-solution buffer-free digestion for the analysis of SARS-CoV-2 RBD proteins allows a full sequence coverage and detection of post-translational modifications in a single ESI
Year: 2021
Citation: 8

Y Morera-Díaz, C Canaán-Haden, J Sánchez-Ramírez, …
Title: Active immunization with a structurally aggregated PD-L1 antigen breaks T and B immune tolerance in non-human primates and exhibits in vivo anti-tumoral effects in
Year: 2023
Citation: 4

D Vázquez-Blomquist, M Bequet-Romero, Y Mendoza-Marí, G Lemos, …
Title: Nasalferon, a new nasal formulation of IFNα2b, modulates cellular and molecular elements associated with an antiviral response in mucosa and blood
Year: 2022
Citation: 4

EM Idelsis, PE Jésus, DR Yaquelin, VB Dania, BR Mónica, BR Lisandra, …
Title: A combination treatment of IFN-α2b and IFN-γ accelerates viral clearance and control inflammatory response in COVID-19: Preliminary results of a randomized controlled trial
Year: 2021
Citation: 4

C Canaán-Haden, J Sánchez-Ramírez, R Martínez-Castillo, …
Title: Immunogenicity and Safety Profile of Two Adjuvanted-PD-L1-Based Vaccine Candidates in Mice, Rats, Rabbits, and Cynomolgus Monkeys
Year: 2025
Citation: N/A

Y Morera, M Bequet-Romero, F Hernández-Bernal, I González-Moya, …
Title: Preclinical and clinical significance of VEGF deprivation in ovarian cancer through a specific active immunotherapy
Year: 2023
Citation: N/A

Xiaoxue Luo | Medicine | Excellence in Innovation

Ms. Xiaoxue Luo | Medicine | Excellence in Innovation

 Southwest Medical University China

Luo Xiaoxue from Luzhou, Sichuan Province, China, is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Pediatrics at Southwest Medical University. She is actively involved in academic and extracurricular activities, serving as a volunteer team officer and class psychological counselor. Recognized for her leadership, she has won multiple school cultural competition awards and a class scholarship. With a strong passion for medicine, she has gained hands-on experience through internships in pediatric respiratory care and chronic disease management. Luo is also skilled in digital drawing and debugging tools, demonstrating versatility beyond her medical studies.

profile

Orcid

🎓 Education

Luo Xiaoxue enrolled at Southwest Medical University in September 2023 to study Pediatrics. Her academic journey is marked by a deep commitment to medical sciences and student welfare. She serves as a volunteer team officer, assisting faculty in organizing events, and as a class psychological counselor, offering emotional support to peers. Her dedication has earned her a class scholarship and the title of outstanding student leader. Actively participating in school cultural competitions, she has secured multiple awards. She also engages in experimental projects, enhancing her hands-on medical skills and scientific knowledge.

💼 Experience

Luo Xiaoxue gained practical experience in pediatrics during her internship at the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University in July 2024, where she studied respiratory diagnosis, observed procedures like puncture and gastroscopy, and independently identified a hemophilia case. In January 2025, at Qingyun Health Center, she trained in chronic disease management, learning to operate diagnostic tools and assisting elderly patients with hypertension and diabetes. These experiences sharpened her communication and analytical skills, allowing her to translate medical complexities into patient-friendly explanations.

🏆 Awards & Honors

Luo Xiaoxue has been recognized for her academic excellence and leadership. She received a class scholarship for outstanding academic performance and was honored as an outstanding student leader for her contributions to student welfare. Her active participation in school cultural competitions has led to multiple awards. She has also been acknowledged for her volunteer work in faculty activities and student mental health support, reflecting her commitment to both academic and social responsibilities.

🔬 Research Focus

Luo Xiaoxue’s research interests revolve around pediatric respiratory diseases and chronic illnesses in elderly patients. During her hospital internships, she explored diagnostic methodologies, leading to her independent identification of a hemophilia case. She is particularly interested in improving early detection and management of childhood respiratory disorders and elderly chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes. Through her involvement in experimental projects, she aims to bridge the gap between clinical research and practical healthcare applications, enhancing patient outcomes.

Conclusion

Luo Xiaoxue possesses strong analytical, leadership, and research skills, making her a promising candidate for Excellence in Innovation in healthcare. With further involvement in structured research, technological advancements, and public speaking, she could significantly impact pediatric medical innovation.

Publication

Title: A Modified Second Toe Nail-Skin Flap for Refined Reconstruction of the Distal Index Finger Defect
Year: 2025
Author: Xiaoxue Luo

 

Mourad ELGOULLI | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mourad ELGOULLI | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Docteur Mourad ELGOULLI, Université Sultan Moulay Slimane, Morocco

Dr. Mourad Elgoulli is a microbiologist specializing in biofilm formation and water quality management. With expertise in biology, chemistry, and biochemical analysis, he applies quality standards in research and industry. His work focuses on microbial adhesion in drinking water systems, developing anti-biofilm strategies. As an Educational Specialist at the Ministry of National Education, he also contributes to academia. His research spans microbiological contamination, food safety, and industrial hygiene. Dr. Elgoulli has published extensively in high-impact journals and presented at international conferences. His contributions advance safe water practices and microbial contamination prevention.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Scholar

🎓 Education

PhD in Biology/Microbiology (2022) – Sultan Moulay Slimane University; Research on biofilm formation in drinking water pipes. Master in Science & Technology (2017) – Specialization in food industry quality management and microbiological control. BSc in Food Technology (2015) – Focus on molecular biology, microbiology, and food quality control. DEUST in Biology, Chemistry & Geology (2014) – Strong foundation in biochemistry and microbiological analysis. High School Diploma in Life & Earth Sciences (2012).

💼 Experience

Educational Specialist (2021-Present) – Ministry of National Education, Preschool & Sport, managing educational administration. Research Intern (2017) – Bioprocesses & Biointerfaces Laboratory, studying milk contamination and bacterial adhesion. Industry Trainee (2015) – Safilait Dairy, investigating Cleaning In Place (CIP) system efficiency and microbiological hygiene.

🏆 Awards & Honors

Multiple high-impact publications in microbiology journals. Recognition at international microbiology conferences. Academic achievements in microbial adhesion and biofilm disruption research. Contributor to environmental health research projects.

🔍 Research Focus

Biofilm formation & prevention in drinking water systems. Microbial adhesion to industrial surfaces. Food industry contamination and hygiene. Water disinfection & pathogen control using chlorine-based methods. Microbial ecology & environmental microbiology applications.

Publication Top Notes

  • Theoretical adhesion of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli on some plumbing materials in presence of distilled water or tap water (2021) – M. Elgoulli, O. Aitlahbib, S. Tankiouine, A. Assaidi, M. E. Louali, H. Zahir, … – Folia Microbiologica 66, 607-613 (12 citations).

 

  • Effect of chemical compounds in water on surface properties and adhesion capacity of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli in turbulent conditions (2021) – M. Elgoulli, H. Zahir, O. Aitlahbib, M. Ellouali, H. Latrache – Water SA 47 (4), 430–436 (4 citations).

 

  • Influence of surface properties of resins used as binders for coatings on the theoretical and experimental adhesion of bacteria (2023) – M. Elgoulli, C. Zanane, S. Lekchiri, H. Zahir, M. El Louali, M. Mabrouki, … – Progress in Organic Coatings 175, 107374 (3 citations).

 

  • Effect of water temperature on surfaces’ physicochemical properties and adhesion of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in turbulence conditions (2020) – M. Elgoulli, S. Tankiouine, O. Aitlahbib, H. Zahir, M. El Louali, H. Latrache – Eurasian Journal of Biosciences 14 (2), 7245-7251 (3 citations).

 

  • Chlorination of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in potable water (2024) – M. Elgoulli, H. Zahir, M. Ellouali, H. Latrache – International Journal of Environmental Health Research, 1-8 (1 citation).

 

  • Disruption of Pseudomonas aeruginosa Adherent Cells by NaCl and NaOCl in Drinking Water (2023) – M. Elgoulli, H. Zahir, M. Ellouali, H. Latrache – Current Microbiology 80 (5), 138 (1 citation).

 

  • Biocontamination Risk of Staphylococcus aureus in Dairy Manufacturing Presence of Two Types of UHT Milk (2020) – S. Tankiouine, H. Zahir, M. El Goulli, K. El Fazazi, A. Assaidi, T. Hakim, … – Food and Nutrition Sciences 11 (8), 824-835 (1 citation).

 

  • Reversal of NaCl effect on Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli bacterial adherents (2025) – M. Elgoulli, S. Lekchiri, T. Hakim, C. Zanane, S. Mitro, M. Ellouali, … – International Journal of Adhesion and Adhesives, 103947.

 

  • Control of Olive Tuberculosis Trees with Olive Mill Wastewater: Inhibition of Pseudomonas savastanoi Adhesion (2024) – S. Mitro, T. Hakim, O. Ameslek, C. Zanane, D. Mazigh, M. Elgoulli, M. El Louali, … – Tropical Journal of Natural Product Research 8 (6).

 

  • Study of conditioning film of 316L stainless steel treated with two types of UHT milk using contact angle method and infrared spectroscopy (2023) – S. Tankiouine, H. Zahir, M. El Goulli, K. El Fazazi, S. Soufiani, F. Hamadi, … – Moroccan Journal of Chemistry 11 (1), 11-1 (2023) 95-104.

 

Tao Yun | Molecular Pathogenesis | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Tao Yun | Molecular Pathogenesis | Best Researcher Award

Research, Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China

Tao Yun, PhD, is a distinguished researcher at the Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China. Specializing in animal virology, he leads innovative studies on emerging viral diseases in poultry and vaccine development. With over two decades of experience, he has earned recognition for his contributions to veterinary science, including impactful publications and prestigious awards. His research emphasizes translational virology, merging basic science with practical applications to advance disease prevention and control in waterfowl and other species.

Publication Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Undergraduate (1997-2001): Veterinary Medicine, Shihezi University. Master’s (2001-2004): Animal Genetics, Breeding, and Reproduction Science, Shihezi University.  PhD (2007-2010): Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University

💼 Experience

Researcher: Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences. Postgraduate Tutor: Zhejiang A&F University. Group Leader: Studying waterfowl viral pathogens like NDRV and TMUV

🏆 Awards & Honors

151 Talent Projects: Third-level training personnel in Zhejiang Province. Science Advancement Awards: For Tembusu virus and Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease research

🔬 Research Focus

Emerging viral diseases in waterfowl, including NDRV and TMUV.  Vaccine development using animal herpesvirus vectors. Diagnostic tools for viral pathogen detection

Conclusion

Dr. Tao Yun is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his impactful and innovative work in animal virology. His research on emerging viral diseases and vaccine development has significantly advanced the field, benefiting both academia and the agricultural industry. With a focus on continuous growth and broader collaborations, Dr. Yun’s potential to contribute to veterinary sciences remains unparalleled.

Publication Top Notes

2024

  1. Infection with novel duck reovirus induces stress granule and methylation-mediated host translational shutoff in Muscovy ducklings
    Authors: Yun, T.; Hua, J.; Chen, L.; … Zhu, Y.; Zhang, C.
    Journal: Communications Biology, 7(1), 1549
    Citations: 0
  2. Single-cell transcriptional profiling reveals cell type-specific responses to duck reovirus infection in the Bursa of Fabricius of Cairna moschata
    Authors: Yun, T.; Hua, J.; Ye, W.; … Zheng, C.; Zhang, C.
    Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 281, 136391
    Citations: 0
  3. Complete Genome Sequence and Construction of an Infectious Bacterial Artificial Chromosome Clone of a Virulent Duck Enteritis Virus Strain XJ
    Authors: Huo, S.-X.; Zhu, Y.-C.; Chen, L.; … Bao, E.-D.; Zhang, C.
    Journal: Transboundary and Emerging Diseases, 2024, 1746963
    Citations: 0
  4. Development of a multienzyme isothermal and lateral flow dipstick combination assay for the rapid detection of goose astrovirus II
    Authors: Zhu, Y.; Chen, L.; Xu, X.; … Wang, H.; Zhang, C.
    Journal: Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology, 14, 1424212
    Citations: 0

2023

  1. High expression of the classical swine fever virus (CSFV) envelope protein E2 by a single amino acid mutation and its embedded in the pseudorabies virus (PRV) vector for immunization
    Authors: Sun, Y.-Y.; Liu, K.-S.; Yun, T.; … Bao, E.-D.; Zhang, C.
    Journal: Virus Research, 331, 199111
    Citations: 1
  2. Study on the Protective Immunity Induced by Pseudotyped Baculovirus Expressing the E Protein of Tembusu Virus in Ducklings
    Authors: Ni, Z.; Yun, T.; Chen, L.; … Liu, G.; Zhang, C.
    Journal: Genes, 14(7), 1316
    Citations: 1
  3. Inactivation Performance of Pseudorabies Virus as African Swine Fever Virus Surrogate by Four Commercialized Disinfectants
    Authors: Ni, Z.; Chen, L.; Yun, T.; … Zhu, Y.; Zhang, C.
    Journal: Vaccines, 11(3), 579
    Citations: 0
  4. Recombinant pseudorabies virus (PRV) expressing stabilized E2 of classical swine fever virus (CSFV) protects against both PRV and CSFV
    Authors: Sun, Y.-Y.; Liu, K.-S.; Zhang, C.; … Yun, T.; Bao, E.-D.
    Journal: Antiviral Research, 211, 105548
    Citations: 5
  5. Distinct Whole Transcriptomic Profiles of the Bursa of Fabricius in Muscovy Ducklings Infected by Novel Duck Reovirus with Different Virulence
    Authors: Yun, T.; Hua, J.; Ni, Z.; … Zhu, Y.; Zhang, C.
    Journal: Viruses, 15(1), 111
    Citations: 2

2022

  1. Isolation and Pathogenicity of a Novel Goose Astrovirus from Overfed Adult Landaise Geese in China
    Authors: Zhu, Y.; Wang, H.; Hua, J.; … Bao, E.; Zhang, C.
    Journal: Viruses, 14(12), 2806
    Citations: 8

 

 

Katherine Simbaña Rivera | Biomedicina | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Katherine Simbaña Rivera | Biomedicina | Young Scientist Award

Assistant Professor at Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Ecuador

Summary:

Katherine Simbaña Rivera is a medical doctor and researcher dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and public health initiatives through extensive research and collaborative networks. With a background in molecular biomedicine and significant experience in health research management, she has authored numerous articles and co-authored books on critical health topics. Her leadership in national health research and active involvement in student scientific societies underline her commitment to fostering research capabilities and promoting healthcare access in underserved communities across Latin America.

🎓Education:

Katherine Simbaña Rivera earned her medical degree from Universidad Central del Ecuador. She further pursued a Master’s degree in Molecular Biomedicine, specializing in Basic and Translational Cancer Research, from the Universitat de Barcelona, Spain. Currently, she is enrolled in doctoral studies in Applied Health Sciences Research at the University Institute of Biomedical and Health Research (IUIBS) at Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain.

🏥👨‍🏫Professional Experience:

From 2021 to 2022, Katherine served as the National Director of Health Research at the Ecuadorian Ministry of Public Health, where she played a key role in drafting nine research and bioethics regulations and developing strategic guidelines for national health management. She is currently an associate researcher at the Center for Research on Health in Latin America (CISeAL) at Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador (PUCE).

Research Interests:

Katherine Simbaña Rivera’s research interests encompass a broad spectrum, including the Ecuadorian pharmaceutical market, COVID-19, translational cancer research, and applied health sciences. Her work focuses on advancing public health through innovative research methodologies and strategic health interventions.

Publications Top Notes 📝:

1. Clinical, molecular, and epidemiological characterization of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), a comprehensive literature review

  • Authors: Ortiz-Prado, E., Simbaña-Rivera, K., Gómez-Barreno, L., Rubio-Neira, M., …
  • Journal: Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease
  • Volume: 98
  • Issue: 1
  • Year: 2020
  • Article Number: 115094
  • Citations: 543

2. Epidemiological, socio-demographic and clinical features of the early phase of the COVID-19 epidemic in Ecuador

  • Authors: Ortiz-Prado, E., Simbaña-Rivera, K., Barreno, L.G., Diaz, A.M., Barreto, A., …
  • Journal: PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases
  • Volume: 15
  • Issue: 1
  • Year: 2021
  • Article Number: e0008958
  • Citations: 171

3. Anxiety and depression in patients with confirmed and suspected COVID-19 in Ecuador

  • Authors: Paz, C., Mascialino, G., Adana Díaz, L., Rodríguez Lorenzana, A., …
  • Journal: Psychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences
  • Volume: 74
  • Issue: 10
  • Year: 2020
  • Pages: 554-555
  • Citations: 109

4. Behavioral and sociodemographic predictors of anxiety and depression in patients under epidemiological surveillance for COVID-19 in Ecuador

  • Authors: Paz, C., Mascialino, G., Adana-Díaz, L., Rodríguez-Lorenzana, A., …
  • Journal: PLoS One
  • Volume: 15
  • Issue: 9
  • Year: 2020
  • Article Number: e0240008
  • Citations: 80

5. The disease burden of suicide in Ecuador, a 15 years’ geodemographic cross-sectional study (2001–2015)

  • Authors: Ortiz-Prado, E., Simbaña, K., Gómez, L., Henriquez-Trujillo, A.R., …
  • Journal: BMC Psychiatry
  • Volume: 17
  • Issue: 1
  • Year: 2017
  • Pages: 1-11
  • Citations: 56