Mona Navaei-Nigjeh | Neural tissue engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mona Navaei-Nigjeh | Neural tissue engineering | Best Researcher Award

Dr.Ā  Mona Navaei-Nigjeh Tehran University of Medical Sciences Iran

Mona Navaei-Nigjeh is a Ph.D. candidate in Biomedical Engineering specializing in tissue engineering at Tehran University of Medical Sciences. With a strong academic background, including a B.Sc. in Biology and an M.Sc. in Biomedical Engineering, she has garnered multiple awards for her research excellence. Her work focuses on advanced cell culture, molecular biology, and regenerative medicine. Mona has extensive experience as a research assistant and has published numerous peer-reviewed articles. She is also a member of elite societies like the Iran’s National Elites Foundation and the Iranian Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Society.

Publication Profile

Scholar

 

šŸ† Strengths for the Award:

  1. Academic Excellence: Consistent top performance in her B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. programs with outstanding grades.
  2. Awards and Honors: Recognition as the best researcher and poster presenter in several prominent national scientific festivals and conferences.
  3. Research Publications: Authored or co-authored over 20 publications in high-impact journals, with topics ranging from tissue engineering to molecular biology.
  4. Technical Expertise: Proficient in advanced techniques such as 3D cell culture, flow cytometry, real-time PCR, and scaffold fabrication, which are critical for high-impact research in her field.
  5. Professional Affiliations: Active membership in elite national and international research societies, which enhances her research network and collaboration opportunities.

šŸ“ˆ Areas for Improvement:

  1. International Recognition: While she has been recognized nationally, gaining international research awards or invitations to global conferences would further strengthen her profile.
  2. Leadership Roles: Taking on more leadership positions, such as principal investigator roles or heading research teams, could showcase her as an emerging leader in her field.

Educational Background šŸŽ“

B.Sc. in Biology Tehran University, Tehran, Iran 2005-2009 GPA: 16.39/20. M.Sc. in Biomedical Engineering (Tissue Engineering)
Tehran University, Tehran, Iran 2010-2012 GPA: 19.06/20. Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering (Tissue Engineering) Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran Ongoing GPA: 18.94/20

Honors and Achievements šŸ…

Member of Iran’s National Elites Foundation (INEF). Member of the Iranian Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Society (ITERMS). Best Researcher Award, Avicenna Student Festival, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, 2016. Best Poster Awards, various congresses (2015-2016). Outstanding Researcher and Graduate Student, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, 2012. Top Student Awards in B.Sc. and M.Sc. at University of Tehran

Work Experience šŸ’¼

Research Assistant Tehran University of Medical Sciences (2 years). Scientific and Executive Role Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (6 years). Scientific Activity Brain and Spinal Injury Research Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (1 year)

Research Experience šŸ”¬

M.Sc. Thesis: ā€œ3D Culture of Differentiated Human Endometrial Stem Cells into Neuronsā€. Ph.D. Thesis: ā€œEffect of Co-Transplantation of Encapsulated Pancreatic Islets with Mesenchymal Stem Cells within Hydrogel as a Treatment for Diabetes Mellitus in Adult Ratsā€

Workshops šŸ› ļø

  • Elisa Technique, Flow Cytometry, Real-time PCR
    The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (2016)

Technical Experience šŸ§Ŗ

Cellular Biology: Culturing various stem cells and cell lines. Molecular Biology: DNA/RNA extraction, RT-PCR, Real-time PCR. Immunology: Immunocytochemistry, Flow Cytometry. Microscopy: Stereo, Fluorescence, and Light Microscopy. Histology: Sample preparation for microscopy and immunohistochemistry. Biochemistry: ELISA, Enzymatic Assays. Tissue Engineering: Fabrication of 3D scaffolds using Electrospinning, Freeze Drying, and Self-assembly

Publication Top NotesĀ 

  • Antibacterial properties of a bacterial cellulose CQD-TiO2 nanocomposite
    • Authors: S. Malmir, A. Karbalaei, M. Pourmadadi, J. Hamedi, F. Yazdian, M. Navaee
    • Journal: Carbohydrate Polymers
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 137

 

  • Preparation of pH-sensitive chitosan/polyvinylpyrrolidone/Ī±-Fe2O3 nanocomposite for drug delivery application: Emphasis on ameliorating restrictions
    • Authors: S.E. Gerami, M. Pourmadadi, H. Fatoorehchi, F. Yazdian, H. Rashedi, …
    • Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 116

 

  • Ameliorating quercetin constraints in cancer therapy with pH-responsive agarose-polyvinylpyrrolidone-hydroxyapatite nanocomposite encapsulated in double nanoemulsion
    • Authors: A. Samadi, M. Pourmadadi, F. Yazdian, H. Rashedi, M. Navaei-Nigjeh
    • Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 91

 

  • Antiapoptotic effects of cerium oxide and yttrium oxide nanoparticles in isolated rat pancreatic islets
    • Authors: A. Hosseini, M. Baeeri, M. Rahimifard, M. Navaei-Nigjeh, A. Mohammadirad, …
    • Journal: Human & Experimental Toxicology
    • Year: 2013
    • Citations: 83

 

  • Improvement of isolated rat pancreatic islets function by combination of cerium oxide nanoparticles/sodium selenite through reduction of oxidative stress
    • Authors: N. Pourkhalili, A. Hosseini, A. Nili-Ahmadabadi, M. Rahimifard, …
    • Journal: Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods
    • Year: 2012
    • Citations: 77

 

  • Protective effects of cerium oxide and yttrium oxide nanoparticles on reduction of oxidative stress induced by sub-acute exposure to diazinon in the rat pancreas
    • Authors: M.R. Khaksar, M. Rahimifard, M. Baeeri, F. Maqbool, M. Navaei-Nigjeh, …
    • Journal: Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology
    • Year: 2017
    • Citations: 71

 

  • Synthesis and characterization of chitosan/polyvinylpyrrolidone coated nanoporous Ī³-Alumina as a pH-sensitive carrier for controlled release of quercetin
    • Authors: E. Nematollahi, M. Pourmadadi, F. Yazdian, H. Fatoorehchi, H. Rashedi, …
    • Journal: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 68

 

  • PVA based nanofiber containing CQDs modified with silica NPs and silk fibroin accelerates wound healing in a rat model
    • Authors: S. Abolghasemzade, M. Pourmadadi, H. Rashedi, F. Yazdian, S. Kianbakht, …
    • Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry B
    • Year: 2021
    • Citations: 68

 

  • The synthesis and characterization of double nanoemulsion for targeted Co-Delivery of 5-fluorouracil and curcumin using pH-sensitive agarose/chitosan nanocarrier
    • Authors: M. Pourmadadi, M. Ahmadi, M. Abdouss, F. Yazdian, H. Rashedi, …
    • Journal: Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 67

 

  • Chitosan/agarose/graphitic carbon nitride nanocomposite as an efficient pH-sensitive drug delivery system for anticancer curcumin releasing
    • Authors: M. Rajabzadeh-Khosroshahi, M. Pourmadadi, F. Yazdian, H. Rashedi, …
    • Journal: Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 66

 

āœ… Conclusion:

Mona Navaei-Nigjehā€™s profile demonstrates excellence in academic research, consistent recognition, and contributions to the field of tissue engineering. Her research output and technical skills make her a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Further international exposure and leadership roles would make her even more competitive for prestigious global awards.

 

hrishti Singh | Biomedical Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Ā Dr. hrishti Singh | Biomedical Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Ā Dr. George Mason University, United States

šŸ‘©ā€šŸ”¬ With 5 years of experience as a biomedical engineer, scientist, and entrepreneur, I specialize in developing translational contrast agent platforms for enhancing early-stage tumor diagnosis. Additionally, I possess 1 year of healthcare product management experience as a Co-Founder of a biotech start-up. My expertise lies in problem-solving, stakeholder relationship management, and project planning, with a strong passion for innovation and improving patient outcomes through healthcare product development and leadership.

 

Profile

Scholar

Education šŸ“š

PhD in Bioengineering, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA (Aug. 2017 ā€“ Dec. 2022)Masters in Biomedical Engineering, University of Bridgeport, Bridgeport, CT (Aug. 2015 ā€“ Aug. 2017)Bachelors in Engineering (B.E) in Biotechnology, Ramaiah Institute of Technology, Bangalore, Karnataka (Aug. 2011 ā€“ Aug. 2015)

Technical Skills šŸ› ļø

Languages: Python, Matlab, Perl

Software Skills: Nanoscale Molecular Dynamics (NAMD), Adobe Illustrator

Experimental Skills: Gel Electrophoresis, Western Blotting, Flow Cytometry, Cell Culture, Biomaterial Design, Synthesis and Characterization, Lipid Nanoparticle Synthesis, Rheology of Soft Materials, Cyclic Voltammetry, Electroimpedance Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), In-vitro Tissue Models, DNA Extraction, Cell Transfection, Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), In-vivo Ultrasound and Photoacoustic Imaging

Research Awards šŸ…

WeSci Women in STEM Crowdfunding Campaign Winner, 2023George Mason University Outstanding PhD Dissertation Award, 2023Biomedical Engineering Society Advanced Biomanufacturing (AbioM) Best Graduate Work Award, 2023George Mason University Office of Provost and Executive Vice-President Award, 2018University of Bridgeport School of Engineering Academic Accomplishment, 2017University of Bridgeport Faculty Research Day, Winner of Best Graduate Poster, 2017ASEE Northeast Conference, Honorable Mention in Best Graduate Poster, 2016IEEE CT-IETA, Third Place in Best Graduate Poster, 2016IEEE CT-IETA, Honorable Mention in Best Graduate Poster, 2016Ramaiah Institute of Technology Alumni Association, Best B.E Project, 2015

Highlighted Presentation šŸŽ¤

  • Gordon Imaging Institute and MGH, Harvard University (Invite) Aug. 2023
    • Oral: Non-invasive Whole Body PA Imaging of Small Animals using ICG dye constructs. Cambridge, MA

Presentations šŸ“Š

Biomedical Engineering Society Annual Meeting Oct. 2022Virginia Catalyst Conference Sept. 2022George Mason University ā€Mason Graduate Interdisciplinary Conferenceā€ Mar. 2022Biomedical Engineering Society Annual Meeting Oct. 2020Materials Research Society Annual Meeting Dec. 2019

Leadership and Volunteer Experience šŸ¤

President of Graduate Association for Bioengineering Students at George Mason University.Member of International Student Advisory Board at George Mason University.Responsible for mentoring undergraduate students.Part of Letters to Pre-Scientist Program exchanging letters with middle and high school female students to demonstrate the importance of women in STEM.

Relevant Skills šŸ§Ŗ

  • Nanomedicine
  • Biomaterials
  • Contrast Agents
  • Drug Delivery
  • Photoacoustic Imaging
  • Rational Design of Solutions to Health Problems
  • Grant Writing
  • Transformational Leadership
  • Strong Communication

Entrepreneurial Experience šŸ’¼

NIRView Biosciences Inc. (March 2023 – Present)Co-Founder and CEO, Fairfax, VA Responsible for identifying customer needs, conducting product-market fit analysis, and building sustainable business and revenue models. Define the vision of the product and communicate it to the product development team and stakeholders. Proposal writing to secure non-dilutive funding from different government agencies. National Science Foundation I-Corps Entrepreneurial Program (May 2023 – July 2023)Entrepreneurial Lead, NSF I-Corps Bay Area Node, UC Berkley Determined business plans, mission statements, and visions for public health products. Conducted extensive customer discovery interviews to determine product-market fit.

Relevant Media and Websites šŸ“°

Relevant Awards šŸ†

Key Personnel and Investigator on NSF Grant Award Number 2325234.1st place winner and Masonā€™s Choice Winner of Patriot Pitch Competition (2023).2nd place winner of Accelerate Investor Conference (2023) pitch competition.Principal Investigator on NSF Small Business Innovation and Research Grant.Contrast agent technology selected as STAT News Best 64 technologies in the United States, 2023.

Research Experience šŸ“Š

George Mason UniversityPostdoctoral Research Fellow (March 2023 – Present)Graduate Research Assistant (August 2019 – December 2022)Graduate Research Assistant (August 2017 – August 2018)

Publications Top Notes šŸ“

  • Title: Synthesis of DNA origami scaffolds: current and emerging strategies
  • Authors: J Bush, S Singh, M Vargas, E Oktay, CH Hu, R Veneziano
  • Journal: Molecules
  • Year: 2020

 

  • Title: Solar cells with PbS quantum dot sensitized TiO2ā€“multiwalled carbon nanotube composites, sulfide-titania gel and tin sulfide coated C-fabric
  • Authors: RK Kokal, M Deepa, A Kalluri, S Singh, I Macwan, PK Patra, J Gilarde
  • Journal: Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics
  • Year: 2017

 

 

  • Title: Interactions between avidin and graphene for development of a biosensing platform
  • Authors: I Macwan, MDH Khan, A Aphale, S Singh, J Liu, M Hingorani, P Patra
  • Journal: Biosensors and Bioelectronics
  • Year: 2017

 

 

  • Title: Size-tunable ICG-based contrast agent platform for targeted near-infrared photoacoustic imaging.
  • Authors: S Singh, G Giammanco, CH Hu, J Bush, LS Cordova, DJ Lawrence, …
  • Journal: Photoacoustics
  • Year: 2023

 

 

  • Title: A Computational Approach for Understanding the Interactions between Graphene Oxide and Nucleoside Diphosphate Kinase with Implications for Heart Failure
  • Authors: A Ray, I Macwan, S Singh, S Silwal, P Patra
  • Journal: Nanomaterials
  • Year: 2018

 

 

  • Title: Versatile encapsulation and synthesis of potent liposomes by thermal equilibration
  • Authors: SA Roberts, C Lee, S Singh, N Agrawal
  • Journal: Membranes
  • Year: 2022

 

 

  • Title: Increasing Vaccine Production using Pulsed Ultrasound Waves
  • Authors: J Xing, S Singh, Y Zhao, Y Duan, H Guo, C Hu, A Ma, R George, JZ Xing, …
  • Journal: PLOS One
  • Year: 2017

 

 

  • Title: Autonomously Propelled Colloids for Penetration and Payload Delivery in Complex Extracellular Matrices
  • Authors: S Singh, J Moran
  • Journal: Micromachines
  • Year: 2022

 

 

  • Title: Rational design of ICG-based contrast agents for near-infrared photoacoustic imaging
  • Authors: M Hanafi, N Such, G Giammanco, S Singh, D Wegierak, E Abenojar, …
  • Journal: Photons Plus Ultrasound: Imaging and Sensing
  • Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Transcranial photoacoustic imaging with ICG J-aggregates for imaging blood-brain barrier leak following LPS-induced neuroinflammation
  • Authors: FJ Bodera, S Singh, R Veneziano, PV Chitnis, MJ McVey, MC Kolios
  • Journal: Photons Plus Ultrasound: Imaging and Sensing
  • Year: 2024

 

 

  • Title: Modified j-aggregates and conjugates thereof
  • Authors: R Veneziano, PV Chitnis, S Singh
  • Journal: US Patent App.
  • Year: 2023

 

  • Title: Indocyanine green-based in-vivo photoacoustic imaging contrast agent platform (Conference Presentation)
  • Authors: S Singh, G Giammanco, C Hu, J Bush, LS Cordova, DJ Lawrence, …
  • Journal: Photons Plus Ultrasound: Imaging and Sensing
  • Year: 2023

 

  • Title: Computational Investigation of Chirality-Based Separation of Carbon Nanotubes Using Tripeptide Library
  • Authors: S Singh, HR Divecha, A Ayoola, M Xavierselvan, J Devlin, I Macwan
  • Journal: Biomolecules
  • Year: 2023