Arpana Church | Social and Cultural Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Arpana Church | Social and Cultural Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Arpana Church, University of California Los Angeles, United States.

Dr. Arpana Church (P.K.A. Gupta, Arpana, Ph.D.) is a distinguished scientist and researcher based at the David Geffen School of Medicine, UCLA. Her academic path began with a Bachelor’s degree in 1998 and evolved into a dynamic career centered on the gut-brain-microbiome connection. With professional appointments at the UCLA Goodman Luskin Microbiome Center and the Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience, Dr. Church plays a pivotal role in advancing research related to stress, digestive health, metabolic disorders, and behavioral conditions. Her scientific contributions bridge disciplines, offering innovative insights into how microbiota influence both emotional and physical well-being. She is recognized for her leadership, collaborative spirit, and commitment to shaping future research directions in microbiome science and neurogastroenterology.

Profile

Google Scholar

 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Arpana Church’s academic journey began with a solid foundation in the sciences, earning her Bachelor’s degree in 1998. With an innate curiosity for the biological underpinnings of health and disease, she embarked on a rigorous academic trajectory that would eventually culminate in a Ph.D. Her early academic pursuits were characterized by a strong commitment to multidisciplinary learning, laying the groundwork for her future focus on microbiome research and neurogastroenterology. These formative years not only refined her scientific thinking but also ignited her passion for translational research, bridging laboratory insights with clinical outcomes.

🧠 Professional Endeavors in Neuroscience & Gut-Brain Axis

Currently, Dr. Church serves at the prestigious UCLA Goodman Luskin Microbiome Center and the G. Oppenheimer Center for Neurobiology of Stress and Resilience. Her role spans across several key initiatives, including the Obesity, Metabolic Disorders and Eating Behaviors Research Program, all housed within the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. Her work within the Vatche and Tamar Manoukian Division of Digestive Diseases exemplifies her commitment to exploring how brain–gut–microbiome interactions influence metabolic and behavioral outcomes. Her professional life is immersed in academic medicine, where she actively contributes to cutting-edge clinical research and institutional growth.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Church’s research is at the intersection of microbiome science, stress neurobiology, and gastrointestinal health. She is a key contributor to studies investigating the gut–brain axis, particularly how microbiota affect emotional, cognitive, and metabolic health. Her innovative work explores mechanisms of resilience and vulnerability in the face of chronic stress, offering critical insights into conditions such as obesity, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and eating disorders. Through her role at UCLA, she is deeply involved in collaborative projects that combine advanced imaging, biomarker analysis, and behavioral science to unravel complex biological pathways.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

While the document doesn’t detail specific awards, Dr. Church’s professional affiliation with UCLA and her active role in multiple research centers reflect a high level of peer recognition. Her expertise and leadership in high-impact research programs speak to her standing in the academic and clinical communities. She is frequently sought after for collaborative projects and research consultations, evidencing the respect she commands in the field of medical science and integrative health.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Church’s work has meaningful implications on both scientific knowledge and public health. Her research on stress and digestive health not only contributes to academic literature but also informs clinical interventions that improve quality of life for patients. Through mentorship and active participation in interdisciplinary research teams, she is shaping the next generation of scientists and physicians. Her influence extends beyond the lab and into broader discussions on the role of the microbiome in mental and metabolic health.

🧬 Legacy and Future Contributions

As science continues to uncover the profound links between the brain, gut, and microbiome, Dr. Arpana Church stands poised to be at the forefront of this revolution. Her future contributions will likely expand into precision medicine and integrative approaches that personalize treatment strategies based on microbiome and neurobiological profiles. With a vision grounded in holistic health and a career rooted in academic excellence, her legacy will be one of transformation—redefining how we understand and treat complex diseases of the mind and body.

Publication

  • Racism as a Determinant of Health: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
    Y Paradies, J Ben, N Denson, A Elias, N Priest, A Pieterse, A Gupta, …
    2015

 

  • Gut/brain axis and the microbiota
    EA Mayer, K Tillisch, A Gupta
    2015

 

  • Examining the relationship between multiple internalized oppressions and African American lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning persons’ self-esteem and psychological distress
    DM Szymanski, A Gupta
    2009

 

  • The “model minority myth”: Internalized racialism of positive stereotypes as correlates of psychological distress, and attitudes toward help-seeking
    A Gupta, DM Szymanski, FTL Leong
    2011

 

  • Differences in gut microbial composition correlate with regional brain volumes in irritable bowel syndrome
    JS Labus, EB Hollister, J Jacobs, K Kirbach, N Oezguen, A Gupta, …
    2017

 

  • Brain–gut–microbiome interactions in obesity and food addiction
    A Gupta, V Osadchiy, EA Mayer
    2020

 

  • Influence of early life, diet, and the environment on the microbiome
    TS Dong, A Gupta
    2019

 

  • Gut Microbiome and Obesity: A Plausible Explanation for Obesity
    C Sanmiguel, A Gupta, EA Mayer
    2015

 

  • Attitudes toward professional counseling among Asian-American college students: Acculturation, conceptions of mental illness, and loss of face
    FTL Leong, HHW Kim, A Gupta
    2011

 

  • Internalized misogyny as a moderator of the link between sexist events and women’s psychological distress
    DM Szymanski, A Gupta, ER Carr, D Stewart
    2009

 

đź“ť Conclusion

Dr. Arpana Church’s career is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary research in uncovering the biological basis of complex health issues. Her work not only deepens our understanding of the brain–gut connection but also paves the way for new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Rooted in academic excellence and driven by a passion for discovery, she continues to inspire through her contributions to science, medicine, and mentorship. As microbiome and neurobiology research gain momentum globally, Dr. Church remains a vital force in shaping the future of integrative health research and translational medicine.

FAZLI MAULA | Mycology | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. FAZLI MAULA | Mycology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. FAZLI MAULA, Quaid I Azam university Islamabad, Pakistan.

Fazli Maula is a promising young researcher in the field of Plant Sciences, specializing in fungal taxonomy and environmental studies. With a B.S. in Botany from the University of Swabi and an M.Phil. in Plant Sciences from Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, his academic and research path reflects a deep commitment to biodiversity and ecological health. His notable contributions include the discovery and classification of eleven new mushroom species in District Swabi, as well as research on the environmental and health impacts of tobacco curing practices in Pakistan. Skilled in molecular analysis, fieldwork, and scientific software tools, Fazli has already published and submitted multiple papers to international journals, signaling his early success and potential in biological sciences.

 

Profile

Google Scholar

 

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

Fazli Maula embarked on his academic journey with a strong passion for plant sciences, earning his Bachelor of Science in Botany from the University of Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan (2017–2021). During this foundational phase, he cultivated a deep interest in the interaction between plants, human activities, and environmental sustainability. His BS thesis, focused on the ecological and health impacts of tobacco curing practices, reflected a strong inclination towards applied environmental research. Building upon this interest, Fazli pursued an M.Phil. in Plant Sciences at Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, where he delved deeper into the world of fungi and plant taxonomy. His educational path showcases not only academic excellence but also a clear direction toward impactful biological research.

🍄 Research Focus and Contributions

As a Masters Research Fellow at Quaid-i-Azam University (2022–2024), Fazli Maula’s research took a significant leap forward with his thesis titled “Taxonomic evaluation of mushrooms of District Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan based on their Morphological, Anatomical and Molecular perspectives.” His intensive field surveys during the rainy season led to the collection and classification of diverse mushroom species. Integrating classical taxonomy with modern molecular tools such as ITS and LSU sequencing, Fazli successfully identified eleven new species and three new records for Pakistan—several of which have been published in esteemed international journals. His contribution is pivotal in enriching the mycological biodiversity database of the region, offering new insights into fungal taxonomy.

🔬 Professional Endeavors and Technical Proficiency

Throughout his research journey, Fazli has demonstrated mastery over a range of laboratory and analytical techniques. His expertise encompasses DNA extraction, microscopic analysis, and phylogenetic tree construction using platforms like MEGA and CIPRES. Additionally, he has honed his skills in scientific documentation and visualization using software such as BioEdit, Microsoft Office, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and other digital tools like PhotoScape and Peximetre. His BS-level work also involved statistical analysis using SPSS, along with field surveys and data collection related to forest depletion and public health, showcasing his versatility in both environmental and microbiological research settings.

đź“š Academic Publications and Recognition

Fazli Maula’s research contributions have not gone unnoticed. The groundbreaking nature of his mushroom taxonomy work led to publications in impact factor journals, while his undergraduate study on tobacco-related forest degradation was accepted for publication in October 2024. These early accomplishments are remarkable for a young researcher and reflect his commitment to advancing science that addresses both biodiversity and human health. His ability to publish at this stage in his career stands as a testament to the relevance and quality of his work.

🌍 Societal Impact and Influence

Through his M.Phil. and BS research, Fazli Maula has spotlighted critical environmental and public health issues. His exploration of forest depletion due to tobacco curing underscores the delicate balance between agriculture and sustainability, while his mycological work enhances the understanding of fungal diversity in Pakistan. By merging local ecological research with global scientific standards, Fazli is contributing meaningfully to conservation strategies and sustainable land-use planning in his region.

🧭 Vision and Future Contributions

With a strong foundation in plant sciences and a focused trajectory in fungal taxonomy and environmental health, Fazli Maula is poised for an impactful career in biological research. He envisions further exploration into fungal genomics and bioactive compounds with potential medicinal and ecological significance. His future contributions are expected to bridge the gap between traditional biodiversity documentation and cutting-edge molecular biology, offering solutions to ecological degradation and enriching scientific databases globally.

🏆 Legacy in the Making

Though early in his career, Fazli Maula is building a legacy rooted in curiosity, discipline, and a profound respect for nature’s intricacies. From uncovering new species of mushrooms to addressing ecological consequences of agricultural practices, his work lays the groundwork for future ecological and taxonomic studies in Pakistan. As he continues to expand his research horizons, Fazli’s legacy will likely inspire a new generation of scientists to explore, protect, and understand the hidden layers of biodiversity.

Publication

  • Title: Fungal Planet description sheets: 1614–1696
    Authors: —
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Lentinus punjabensis (Polyporaceae), a new species from Lal Suhanra National Park, southern Punjab, Pakistan
    Authors: M. Asif, M. Saba, F. Maula, M. Raza
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Taxonomic and phylogenetic evidence reveal a new species and a new record of the genus Marasmius (Marasmiaceae) from Pakistan
    Authors: M. Asif, F. Maula, M. Saba, W. Akram, M. Raza
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Integrated morphological and molecular approaches unveil a new species and a new record of the genus Entoloma (Entolomataceae) from southern Punjab
    Authors: M. Asif, M. Saba, W. Akram, F. Maula, M. Raza
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Integrative taxonomy and multigene phylogeny uncover three novel taxa of the genus Clitopilus from southern Punjab, Pakistan
    Authors: M.R. M. Asif, M. Saba, W. Akram, F. Maula, F. Ullah, M. Batool, M. Ullah, I.K. Greilhuber
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Forest depletion and health hazards: Assessing the environmental and human impacts of tobacco curing practices in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan
    Authors: W.A.K. Fazli Maula, Zaman Sher, Muhammad Asif, Malka Saba
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Taxonomic and phylogenetic evidence reveal a new species of the genus Agaricus section Minores from Pakistan
    Authors: M.B.A.K. Fazli Maula, M. Saba, M. Asif, W. Akram
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Multilocus phylogeny contributes to fungal taxonomy with three novel species of Conocybe (Bolbitiaceae) from southern Punjab, Pakistan
    Authors: A.K.M.R. Muhammad Asif, Malka Saba, Fazli Maula, Wajahat Akram
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Combined morphological and molecular approaches reveal Conocybe pakistanensis (Bolbitiaceae), a novel species from Punjab, Pakistan
    Authors: A.K.A.N. Wajahat Akram, Malka Saba, Muhammad Asif, Fazli Maula, Momal Batool
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Tubaria asiatica (Tubariaceae), a new species from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
    Authors: F. Maula, M. Saba, M. Asif, W. Akram
    Year: 2025

 

 

🧾 Conclusion

Fazli Maula’s journey is a blend of academic excellence, technical expertise, and a passion for ecological discovery. His work not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also addresses real-world environmental issues affecting forests and communities. With a clear research direction and a growing list of accomplishments, Fazli is set to make lasting contributions in the areas of fungal biodiversity, conservation, and environmental sustainability. His dedication, innovation, and scientific rigor position him as a rising figure in the field of plant and fungal sciences.