Fawad Ali Shah | Neuropharmacology |

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Dr. Fawad Ali Shah | Neuropharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Fawad Ali Shah,  Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Fawad Ali Shah is an accomplished neuroscientist and pharmacologist whose academic journey began with a Pharm-D from the University of Malakand, Pakistan, and culminated in a Ph.D. in Neuroscience and Pharmacology from Gyeongsang National University, South Korea. With a strong foundation in neuroprotective pharmacology, his doctoral and postdoctoral research has focused on natural therapeutic agents for cerebral ischemia and brain injury. Professionally, he has held key academic roles in Pakistan, South Korea, Canada, and Saudi Arabia, currently serving as an Associate Professor at Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University.

Profile

Scopus

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Fawad Ali Shah embarked on his academic journey with a profound interest in pharmaceutical sciences and neuroscience. He earned his Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm-D) degree from the University of Malakand, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, in 2010 with a First Division and a solid 70.88% score. His thesis, which explored ischemic and reperfusion injuries and their clinical implications, laid a strong foundation for his lifelong dedication to the neuropharmacological sciences. Driven by a deeper quest for knowledge, he pursued his Ph.D. at the esteemed Gyeongsang National University (GNU) in South Korea, where he specialized in neuroscience and pharmacology. Graduating with an A+ average in 2017, his doctoral research focused on investigating the neuroprotective effects of natural drug substances in models of cerebral ischemic injury. This blend of clinical insight and experimental pharmacology set the stage for his career in neuropharmacological research.

🧠 Professional Endeavors in Neuroscience

After earning his doctorate, Dr. Shah’s professional journey took a dynamic course across academia and clinical research institutions. He began as a Research Scholar and Lab Coordinator in the Neurobiology and Brain Histology Lab at GNU, deepening his technical expertise in neurohistology and preclinical pharmacology. Following this, he was appointed as Assistant Professor and then promoted to Associate Professor at Riphah Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Riphah International University, Islamabad. His academic ascent continued with two prestigious postdoctoral positions: a lab-based postdoctoral fellowship at Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, Canada, and another at the University of Toronto. In 2022, he joined Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia, as an Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology. His teaching and mentorship roles have nurtured aspiring pharmacists and neuroscientists alike, while his hands-on work as a former Associate Pharmacist at GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) and Biogenics added vital industry experience to his academic pursuits.

🔬 Research Focus and Scientific Contributions

Dr. Shah’s research is anchored in the exploration of neuroprotective strategies, particularly involving natural drug substances in mitigating cerebral ischemia and related neuronal injuries. His scientific endeavors are characterized by a translational approach—bridging preclinical findings with potential therapeutic implications. Through a series of methodical investigations during his Ph.D. and postdoctoral tenures, he contributed to the understanding of ischemic brain injury mechanisms, drug-induced neuroprotection, and histopathological changes associated with brain trauma. He has significantly advanced the neuropharmacology discipline by contributing original research that addresses real-world health challenges, such as stroke and neurodegenerative conditions. His collaborations in Canadian research institutions have further enriched his methodological expertise and international research exposure.

📚 Teaching Excellence and Academic Impact

As a seasoned academic, Dr. Shah has been instrumental in delivering rigorous pharmacology and toxicology curricula to undergraduate and graduate pharmacy students. His dual role as a researcher and educator has empowered students with both theoretical understanding and laboratory proficiency. His mentorship extends beyond the classroom, guiding research projects and helping students build critical thinking in experimental neuroscience. His affiliation with academic institutions in Pakistan, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia demonstrates his global academic influence and his ability to adapt to diverse educational environments. His role in curriculum development and departmental leadership has contributed to the overall elevation of academic standards wherever he has served.

🏅 Recognition and Accolades

Dr. Fawad Ali Shah is an HEC (Higher Education Commission) Approved Supervisor, a recognition that attests to his academic merit and capability to guide M.Phil. and Ph.D. research. His scholarly distinction, demonstrated by first-class academic performance and international postdoctoral achievements, has earned him esteem in both academic and research circles. His involvement with reputed institutions like the University of Toronto and Robarts Research Institute has positioned him among globally recognized neuroscientists contributing to pharmacological innovation and brain research.

🌍 Global Reach and Influence

Dr. Shah’s academic and research footprints span several continents, including Asia, North America, and the Middle East. His international collaborations and transdisciplinary research have helped forge global scientific alliances. Through participation in international conferences, seminars, and research initiatives, he has disseminated key findings in neuropharmacology and inspired academic exchanges. His commitment to ethical and impactful research, along with his cross-border academic contributions, highlights his role as a globally engaged scholar advancing neuroscience for public health benefits.

🔮 Vision, Legacy, and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Shah envisions expanding the therapeutic potential of natural compounds in managing neurodegenerative and cerebrovascular diseases. He aspires to establish advanced neuropharmacology labs in collaboration with global research centers to facilitate translational research and innovative drug discovery. His legacy lies in nurturing a new generation of neuroscientists, fostering research with clinical relevance, and strengthening the bridge between pharmaceutical education and neurological care. With a growing portfolio of impactful publications and international engagements, Dr. Shah is poised to remain a leading voice in neurotherapeutics and pharmacological innovation.

Publication

  1. Title: Carvacrol attenuated haloperidol-induced Parkinson’s disease via TNF/NFκβ-NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis
    Author(s): Not listed
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Laboratory Animal Research

 

  1. Title: In Silico molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulation of transferrin coated Phenytoin loaded SLNs with molecular targets of epilepsy
    Author(s): Not listed
    Year: 2025
    Journal: PLOS ONE

 

  1. Title: Carvacrol attenuated myocardial infarction through NLRP3-mediated pyroptosis and mTOR/Nrf2/PPARγ-dependent autophagic signaling
    Author(s): Not listed
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology

 

  1. Title: Retraction notice to “Quercetin attenuated ischemic stroke induced neurodegeneration by modulating glutamatergic and synaptic signaling pathways”
    Author(s): Not listed
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Heliyon

 

  1. Title: Ghrelin’s modulation of growth hormone secretagogue receptors in primary glioblastoma and meningioma: A comprehensive in-vitro study
    Author(s): Not listed
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications

 

  1. Title: Corrigendum to “pH-Sensitive Tacrolimus loaded nanostructured lipid carriers for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease”
    Author(s): Not listed
    Year: 2024
    Journal: European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics

 

  1. Title: Punicalagin improves inflammation and oxidative stress in rat model of pelvic inflammatory disease
    Author(s): Not listed
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Natural Product Research

 

  1. Title: Core-shell tablets designed for modified and sequential release of ibuprofen and rabeprazole
    Author(s): Not listed
    Year: 2024
    Journal: International Journal of Pharmaceutics

 

  1. Title: Effect of Bacillus clausii in attenuating symptoms of DSS-induced ulcerative colitis by modulating NFkB pathway and oxidative stress in mice
    Author(s): Not listed
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology

 

  1. Title: Paroxetine Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers Based In-situ Gel for Brain Delivery via Nasal Route for Enhanced Anti-Depressant Effect: In Vitro Prospect and In Vivo Efficacy
    Author(s): Not listed
    Year: 2024
    Journal: AAPS PharmSciTech

 

🧾 Conclusion

Dr. Fawad Ali Shah stands out as a dedicated researcher, educator, and global academic contributor in the fields of neuroscience and pharmacology. His blend of international experience, pioneering research on natural neuroprotective agents, and commitment to academic excellence underscores his significant role in the advancement of neurotherapeutics. As he continues to inspire future scientists and lead innovative research, his impact will resonate across both the scientific and clinical communities, shaping the future of neurological health and pharmaceutical sciences.

ROSA MOURAO | Neuropharmacology | Women Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. ROSA MOURAO | Neuropharmacology | Women Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. ROSA MOURAO, UNIVERSIDADES FEDERAL DO OESTE DO PARÁ, Brazil.

Prof. Dr. Rosa Helena Veras Mourão is a distinguished Brazilian biochemist and full professor at UFOPA, with a strong academic foundation in Biological Sciences and Plant Biochemistry. She earned her Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from the Federal University of Pernambuco, including a research fellowship at UNICAMP under Prof. Dr. Mário Saad. Her research centers on the biochemical properties of Amazonian medicinal plants, focusing on diabetes, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities, essential oils, and the effects of Bothrops atrox venom.

Profile

Orcid

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Rosa Helena Veras Mourão embarked on her scientific journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the Federal University of Ceará in 1993. Her early academic choices reflected a deep curiosity about the natural world, especially the biochemical aspects of plant life. She soon pursued a Master’s degree in Plant Biochemistry at the same institution, which she completed in 1996. Her growing interest in health-related plant biochemistry led her to a doctoral program in Biological Sciences at the Federal University of Pernambuco, awarded in 2006. During her Ph.D., she was selected for a prestigious sandwich fellowship at the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), where she conducted research under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Mário Saad, further sharpening her expertise in metabolic disorders like diabetes.

🧪 Professional Endeavors in Biochemistry

Currently a Full Professor at the Institute of Collective Health at the Federal University of Western Pará (UFOPA), Prof. Mourão has built a solid career blending academic research with community outreach. Her expertise lies in Biochemistry, particularly medicinal plants and their applications in treating chronic diseases. Her work consistently merges scientific rigor with social relevance, focusing on diabetes, antimicrobial resistance, anti-inflammatory responses, and the effects of Bothrops atrox venom. She has mentored numerous Master’s students through UFOPA’s Health Sciences and Natural Resources programs and also advises Ph.D. candidates under the REDE BIONORTE initiative, reflecting her pivotal role in academic mentorship and capacity building in the Amazon region.

🌿 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Mourão’s research delves into the pharmacological potential of Amazonian flora, particularly essential oils and plant extracts with therapeutic effects. Her contributions include advancing the standardization of bioactive extracts, evaluating their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and assessing their applicability in the treatment of diabetes. Her scientific investigations into Bothrops atrox venom have added critical insights to toxinology. Furthermore, her interdisciplinary approach bridges biochemistry with ethnopharmacology, respecting traditional knowledge systems while applying rigorous scientific methods to validate their efficacy.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Her commitment to research excellence earned her the prestigious CNPq Research Productivity Fellowship (PQ2), which she held until 2023. This national recognition highlighted her sustained contributions to Brazilian science, particularly in the fields of medicinal chemistry and natural products. In academic circles, her name appears under various bibliographic formats such as MOURÃO, R.H.V. and Rosa H. Mourão, indicating her prolific and diverse scholarly output. She is also active on national platforms such as the Lattes Curriculum system and holds an ORCID iD, further ensuring her work’s visibility and impact within global research communities.

🌎 Impact and Social Innovation

Beyond academia, Prof. Mourão is deeply involved in projects that fuse scientific knowledge with social innovation. She co-founded Deveras Amazônia, a startup that transforms Amazonian biodiversity into culinary experiences, and Xibé Oficial, a fashion-focused enterprise using natural dyes extracted from Amazonian plants. Her technological extension projects with local communities in Western Pará demonstrate her commitment to applying scientific research for social impact, focusing on sustainable development and strengthening regional production chains. Her work empowers Amazonian communities by integrating traditional knowledge with entrepreneurial strategies.

🔬 Legacy in Scientific Mentorship

Throughout her academic career, Prof. Mourão has mentored a generation of scientists who now contribute to fields as diverse as biochemistry, pharmacognosy, and public health. As a Master’s and Ph.D. advisor, she fosters critical thinking, innovation, and social responsibility in her students. Her guidance helps shape professionals capable of addressing both local health challenges and broader scientific questions. Her legacy lies not only in her publications and projects but also in the human capital she has developed over decades of service.

🌱 Future Contributions and Vision

Looking ahead, Prof. Rosa Helena Veras Mourão remains a beacon of interdisciplinary research in the Amazon. Her vision includes expanding collaborations that promote bioeconomic development rooted in sustainability, enhancing the integration of indigenous knowledge systems into mainstream science, and scaling up social-impact projects. With her strong academic foundation and unwavering dedication to public health and biodiversity, she continues to serve as an inspiring force in Brazilian science, forging a future where innovation, ecology, and equity go hand in hand.

Publication

1. Antifungal chemosensitization through induction of oxidative stress: A model for control of candidiasis based on the Lippia origanoides essential oil
Authors: Sandra Layse F. Sarrazin, Jean-Paul Bourdineaud, José Guilherme S. Maia, Rosa Helena V. Mourão, Ricardo B. Oliveira
Year: 2024

2. Lip balm made from butter extracted from bacuri (Platonia insignis Mart.) Amazonian fruit seeds: Development and characterization
Authors: Bruna Carvalho Cantal de Souza, Walberson da Silva Reatgui, Junior Avelino de Araújo, Rosa Helena Veras Mourão, Leopoldo C. Baratto, Gabriela B. dos Santos, Kariane M. Nunes
Year: 2024

3. Volatile Constituents of Some Myrtaceous Edible and Medicinal Fruits from the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Adenilson S. Barroso, Lais T. Massing, Chieno Suemitsu, Rosa Helena V. Mourão, Pablo L. B. Figueiredo, José Guilherme S. Maia
Year: 2024

4. Molecular modelling and anticholinesterase activity of the essential oil from three chemotypes of Lippia alba (Mill.)
Authors: Antônio Q. Silva Júnior, Gabriela dos Santos Rodrigues, Karina A. de Sousa, Leoneide E. M. Bouillet, Gabriela B. dos Santos, Adenilson S. Barroso, Rosa Helena Veras Mourão
Year: 2024

5. Seasonal Variation in Essential Oil Composition and Antioxidant Capacity of Aniba canelilla
Authors: Ellen de Nazaré S. da Cruz, Luana de Sousa P. Barros, Bruna de Araújo Guimarães, Rosa Helena V. Mourão, José Guilherme S. Maia, William N. Setzer, Joyce Kelly da Silva, Pablo L. B. Figueiredo
Year: 2023

6. Distribution of Carapa Guianensis Associated to Topoclimatic Variables Indicating Potential Clusters for Cultivation in the State of Pará
Authors: Denison Lima Correa, Lucieta G. Martorano, Leila Sheila S. Lisboa, Carlos T. dos S. Dias, Alberdan S. Santos, Rosa Helena V. Mourão
Year: 2023

7. Seasonal Influence on Volatile Composition of Psidium friedrichsthalianum Leaves, Sampled in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Paulo V. L. Santos, Ellen de N. S. da Cruz, Jennifer de A. Nunes, Rosa Helena V. Mourão, Walnice M. O. do Nascimento, José Guilherme S. Maia, Pablo L. B. Figueiredo
Year: 2023

8. Seasonal Variability of a Caryophyllane Chemotype Essential Oil of Eugenia patrisii Vahl Occurring in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Ellen de N. S. da Cruz, Luana de S. Peixoto, Jamile S. da Costa, Rosa Helena V. Mourão, Walnice M. O. do Nascimento, José Guilherme S. Maia, William N. Setzer, Joyce Kelly da Silva, Pablo L. B. Figueiredo
Year: 2022

9. Atividade antioxidante de extratos de Myrciaria dubia (camu-camu)
Authors: Carlena Sinara M. da Silva, Rosa Helena Veras Mourão
Year: 2022

10. Myrciaria dubia (Kunth) McVaugh (Myrtales: Myrtaceae): análise dos produtos elaborados a partir do seu fruto
Authors: Carlena Sinara M. da Silva, Rosa Helena Veras
Year: 2021

🧾 Conclusion

Prof. Rosa Helena Veras Mourão exemplifies a modern scientist whose work harmonizes rigorous biochemical research with social and environmental impact. Her commitment to advancing science in the Amazon, empowering communities, and nurturing future scholars positions her as a transformative figure in Brazilian research. Her legacy is defined not only by academic excellence but also by her visionary efforts to blend innovation with inclusivity, ensuring that science serves both nature and society.

Rita Abi Rached | Neuropharmacology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Rita Abi Rached | Neuropharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rita Abi Rached, University of Cagliari, Italy.

Rita Joseph Abi Rached has built a remarkable career at the intersection of food chemistry, biochemistry, and sustainability. From her foundational academic journey to her current research in agri-food by-product valorization, she has continuously sought innovative solutions to environmental and health-related challenges. Her expertise spans industry collaborations, cutting-edge research, and impactful scientific contributions, making her a leading figure in sustainable food science.

Profile

Google Scholar

✨ Early Academic Pursuits – A Passion for Science ✨

From an early age, Rita Joseph Abi Rached demonstrated an innate curiosity for the sciences, particularly in the fields of biochemistry and food chemistry. She embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from Saint Joseph University of Beirut in 2017, where she cultivated a strong foundation in molecular sciences. Her passion for the chemical intricacies of food systems led her to pursue a Master’s degree in Food Chemistry in 2019, further refining her expertise in the biochemical properties of agro-food products. This academic dedication ultimately culminated in a Double Ph.D. in Life, Environmental, and Pharmaceutical Sciences from the University of Cagliari and Saint Joseph University of Beirut in 2024, marking a significant milestone in her scholarly endeavors.

🌱 Professional Endeavors – Bridging Academia and Industry 🌱

With an unwavering commitment to research, Rita transitioned from academia to professional scientific exploration. Her early training included hands-on experiences at Château Ksara, where she assessed grape phenolic maturity, and at Libby’s, where she gained insights into quality control and microbiological analyses. Further strengthening her industrial expertise, she worked as a lab researcher and research assistant at Saint Joseph University, refining her skills in polyphenol analysis and microbiological assessments. These experiences not only expanded her technical competencies but also paved the way for her role as a dedicated researcher at the University of Cagliari, where she currently investigates sustainable approaches to agri-food by-product valorization.

🤝 Contributions and Research Focus – Innovating for a Sustainable Future 🤝

Rita’s research is deeply rooted in sustainability and the innovative utilization of agricultural and industrial biomasses. Her current work revolves around the valorization of agro-industrial by-products, transforming waste into functional bioactive compounds for health and agriculture. She has actively contributed to groundbreaking projects such as BESTMEDGRAPE, which applied nanotechnological strategies to enhance Mediterranean grape derivatives, and MEDLENTISK, an Erasmus+ initiative that explored best practices for mastic tree fixed oil. Additionally, she played a pivotal role in TECNOCOVID, a project leveraging natural bioactives and nanotechnologies to combat COVID-19. Her most recent endeavor, NUTRINNOVA, focuses on utilizing nutriosomes derived from agro-industrial waste to mitigate dysbiosis, oxidative stress, and cognitive decline, further establishing her as a pioneer in sustainable food research.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition – A Scholar’s Journey 🏆

Throughout her career, Rita has garnered significant recognition for her impactful contributions to scientific research. Her work has been widely cited, with a citation index of 72 and an h-index of 4, reflecting her influence in the academic community. These achievements underscore the relevance of her studies in the fields of food science, biotechnology, and environmental sustainability. Her research outputs continue to inspire new approaches to the responsible and efficient use of natural resources, positioning her as a respected voice in her domain.

🔍 Impact and Influence – Shaping the Scientific Landscape 🔍

As an advocate for innovative and sustainable research, Rita’s work has transcended the boundaries of traditional food science, merging interdisciplinary methodologies to address global challenges. By focusing on agri-food waste valorization, she has provided meaningful insights into reducing environmental impact while enhancing the nutritional and therapeutic value of food by-products. Her collaborations with industry leaders and academic institutions have reinforced her reputation as a key contributor to cutting-edge scientific advancements.

 

Publication

  • Title: Entrapment of Citrus limon var. pompia Essential Oil or Pure Citral in Liposomes Tailored as Mouthwash for the Treatment of Oral Cavity Diseases
    Author(s): L Palmas, M Aroffu, GL Petretto, E Escribano-Ferrer, O Díez-Sales, …
    Year: 2020

 

  • Title: Extraction, Characterization and Incorporation of Hypericum scruglii Extract in Ad Hoc Formulated Phospholipid Vesicles Designed for the Treatment of Skin
    Author(s): M Allaw, M Manconi, M Aroffu, F Marongiu, M Porceddu, G Bacchetta, …
    Year: 2020

 

  • Title: Optimization of Polyphenols Extraction from Purple Corn Cobs Using ß-Cyclodextrin as a Green Solvent
    Author(s): HN Rajha, S Khabbaz, R Abi Rached, E Debs, RG Maroun, N Louka
    Year: 2020

 

  • Title: From Grape By-Products to Enriched Yogurt Containing Pomace Extract Loaded in Nanotechnological Nutriosomes Tailored for Promoting Gastro-Intestinal Wellness
    Author(s): I Castangia, F Fulgheri, FJ Leyva-Jimenez, ME Alañón, ML Cádiz-Gurrea, …
    Year: 2023

 

  • Title: From Field to Waste Valorization: A Preliminary Study Exploring the Impact of the Wine Supply Chain on the Phenolic Profile of Three Sardinian Pomace Extracts
    Author(s): I Castangia, M Aroffu, F Fulgheri, R Abi Rached, F Corrias, G Sarais, …
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Innovation in Cannon Puffing Technology for the Homogenization of Bulk Treatment: Half‐Popped Purple Corn, a New Healthy Snack
    Author(s): HN Rajha, E Debs, R Abi Rached, K El Khoury, M Al‐Kazzi, R Mrad, …
    Year: 2021

 

  • Title: Exploring the Efficacy and Industrial Potential of Polyphenol Products from Grapes and Their By-Products
    Author(s): R Abi Rached, M Perra, ML Manca, HN Rajha, N Louka, RG Maroun, …
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: A Preliminary Investigation on Hydrogel Disks Imbibed with Enriched Transfersomes as a Promising Tool to Promote the Cutaneous Deposition of Vaccine Antigens
    Author(s): M Aroffu, R Abi Rached, I Castangia, P Italiani, L D’Apice, …
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Preliminary Evaluation of the In Vitro and In Vivo Efficacy of a Novel Nanovesicle-Doped Nanoemulsion Co-Loading Artemisinin and Quercetin as a Promising Strategy to Improve …
    Author(s): F Fulgheri, M Ramírez, L Román-Álamo, P Gasco, M Manconi, M Aroffu, …
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Effect of Grape Seed Extract-Loaded Hyalurosomes on Skin Wellness
    Author(s): RA Rached, M Habre, Y Salem, J Khodeir, M Allaw, I Castangia, …
    Year: 2025

 

🔗 Conclusion 🔗

With an unwavering passion for science and an unrelenting drive for discovery, Rita Joseph Abi Rached stands as a beacon of innovation, inspiring future generations to embrace sustainability, research, and the transformative power of science. Her legacy in food science and biochemistry will continue to shape the future of sustainable research, leaving a lasting impact on both academia and industry.