Karen Kikuta | Developmental Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Karen Kikuta | Developmental Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Karen Kikuta | UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine | United States

Ms. Karen Kikuta is an accomplished MD Candidate at the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine with expertise in neuroscience, immunology, and global health research. She earned her B.S. in Neuroscience with minors in Public Health and Biology from Santa Clara University and conducted advanced immunological studies at Stanford University’s Binns Program for Cord Blood Research, investigating immune cell subsets using flow cytometry and single-cell RNA sequencing. Her work has resulted in publications in high-impact journals, including Frontiers in Immunology and the International Journal of Infectious Diseases. Karen has contributed to seven major research projects spanning neurodevelopment, infectious disease, and translational medicine, notably pioneering studies on antenatal Zika virus exposure and its long-term neurobehavioral and cardiac outcomes in children. Her research portfolio includes 2 published documents, 45 citations, and an h-index of 2. She has presented findings at national and international conferences, reflecting her dedication to bridging laboratory discoveries with clinical application. As a member of the American Academy of Neurology and the American Neurological Association, Karen is committed to integrating scientific innovation with compassionate care to advance understanding and treatment of neuroinfectious and developmental disorders.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Research Gate | Linked In

Featured publication

Kikuta, K., Hernandez, C. J., Dunshee de Abranches, A., Damasceno, L., de Britto, J. A., Jardim Duarte, C., Vasconcelos, Z., Zin, A., Brasil, P., Moreira, M. E., & Nielsen-Saines, K. (2025). Academic and social-behavioral assessment in a prospective cohort of normocephalic school-aged children with antenatal Zika virus exposure. International Journal of Infectious Diseases, 159, Article 108026.

Venkanna Bhanothu | Neurodevelopmental Processes |

Dr. Venkanna Bhanothu | Neurodevelopmental Processes | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Venkanna Bhanothu,  ICMR-NIN, Hyderabad, India.

Dr. Venkanna Bhanothu is a highly accomplished biomedical scientist currently serving as Scientist-C at the ICMR–National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad. His academic journey spans from a B.Sc. in Biochemistry to an M.Sc. and M.Tech. in Biochemistry and Medical Biotechnology, culminating in a Ph.D. in Zoology focused on infectious diseases and gene polymorphism. His research uniquely integrates nutritional science with cell and molecular biology, emphasizing nutrient-based therapies, the role of micronutrients in reproductive and child health, and the molecular basis of congenital and inherited metabolic disorders. His professional efforts contribute significantly to translational research aimed at improving public health outcomes. With qualifications like GATE and APSET, Dr. Bhanothu exemplifies academic and research excellence in the life sciences.

Profile

Scopus

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Venkanna Bhanothu’s academic journey is marked by an unwavering dedication to the life sciences. He commenced his higher education with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry, Chemistry, and Zoology from Kakatiya University in 2002, laying a strong foundation in the biological sciences. His passion for biochemistry and human physiology propelled him to pursue an M.Sc. in Biochemistry at the prestigious University of Hyderabad, where he delved deep into molecular biology, immunology, and microbiology. Furthering his academic pursuits, he completed an M.Tech. in Medical Biotechnology from the same institution, gaining expertise in protein engineering, stem cell therapy, and modern diagnostics. His academic path culminated in a Ph.D. in Zoology from Osmania University in 2016, where his research focused on infectious diseases, gene polymorphism, and infertility—a nexus of clinical and molecular inquiry.

🧬 Professional Endeavors in Biomedical Science

Following his robust educational foundation, Dr. Bhanothu embarked on a distinguished scientific career, joining the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) at the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) in Hyderabad. Currently serving as Scientist-C in the Department of Cell Biology, he continues to contribute significantly to national biomedical research. His work spans a variety of interdisciplinary domains including stem cell biology, developmental biology, and nutritional sciences. His role at NIN places him at the intersection of public health and molecular research, contributing to policy-relevant scientific discoveries aimed at improving population health outcomes.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Bhanothu’s research focuses on the molecular, nutritional, and metabolic determinants of human health, particularly in the context of congenital abnormalities and inherited metabolic disorders. He investigates how nutrient deficiencies impair stem cell differentiation and regenerative capacities, exploring nutrient-based therapeutic strategies to restore biological functions. A significant portion of his work also addresses the role of micronutrients in child health, reproductive failure, and embryonic development, employing both in vitro and in vivo models to provide translational insights. His interdisciplinary methodology combines cellular biology, genetics, and nutritional biochemistry, making his research both innovative and clinically impactful.

🧪 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Bhanothu’s commitment to excellence has been recognized through various competitive examinations and academic distinctions. Notably, he qualified the GATE (2004) and APSET (2012), both reflecting his intellectual rigor and potential for research. His academic consistency and research achievements have earned him positions in premier institutes and collaboration opportunities with multidisciplinary teams. Additionally, his continuous participation in educational certifications like the Diploma in Computer Applications underscores his adaptable and forward-thinking approach to research.

🌍 Impact and Influence in Nutritional and Cellular Science

Dr. Bhanothu’s research has direct implications for public health and clinical practice in India and beyond. By addressing how nutrient imbalances affect developmental and metabolic processes at the cellular level, his work supports the formulation of evidence-based nutritional policies. His findings contribute to a better understanding of disease mechanisms and open new avenues for non-invasive, nutrient-centric interventions in early life disorders, reproductive challenges, and chronic conditions. This makes him a key figure in India’s growing health science ecosystem focused on preventive and precision medicine.

🧑‍🔬 Legacy in Translational Biomedical Research

Through his publications, collaborative projects, and mentorship roles, Dr. Bhanothu is actively shaping the next generation of researchers and clinicians. His emphasis on translational biomedical research bridges the gap between bench and bedside, ensuring that laboratory findings inform real-world health solutions. His work in stem cell biology and developmental disorders continues to be a beacon for researchers aspiring to bring molecular insight into applied medical outcomes.

🔬 Future Contributions to Health Science and Therapeutics

Looking forward, Dr. Venkanna Bhanothu is poised to further deepen his investigations into gene-nutrient interactions, stem cell modulation, and reproductive biology. With the rising global focus on personalized nutrition and regenerative medicine, his research aligns with the future of precision healthcare. His upcoming projects are expected to delve into molecular pathways influenced by dietary components, with the potential to revolutionize the management of inherited and developmental diseases.

Publication

Title:
Investigation of the morphological, cellular, biochemical, and molecular modifications in the BG01V human embryonic stem cell-derived neuronal cells

Author:
Not specified (please provide the author list or enable access to the full article for accurate author details)

Year:
2025

🧾 Conclusion

Dr. Venkanna Bhanothu’s career reflects a deep commitment to advancing biomedical knowledge through interdisciplinary research. His work bridges critical gaps between nutrition, cellular biology, and human development, positioning him as a key contributor to India’s scientific community. Through a combination of scientific rigor, innovative approaches, and translational goals, he is actively shaping the future of nutritional therapeutics and developmental biology. His continued contributions are likely to influence both policy and practice in health sciences, especially in areas concerning micronutrient deficiencies, reproductive health, and congenital disorders.

 

Hamid khan | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Young Scientist Award

Mr.Hamid khan | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Hamid khan Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York Pakistan

Hamid Khan is a dedicated researcher and educator who recently completed his PhD in Biotechnology, specializing in Human Molecular Genetics. His academic journey includes a strong foundation in biological sciences, evidenced by his educational background ranging from a BSc to a PhD, with a focus on genetic analysis of rare congenital disorders. His doctoral research has provided insights into the genetic basis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and oculocutaneous albinism, contributing significantly to the understanding of these conditions.

profile

scholar

🎓 Education

PhD in Biotechnology (Human Molecular Genetics)International Islamic University Islamabad, Pakistan & University of Toronto, Canada (2018-2024).MS/M.Phil in Biotechnology (Human Molecular Genetics)International Islamic University Islamabad, Pakistan (2016-2018).M.Sc in ZoologyHazara University Mansehra, KPK, Pakistan (2011-2013).B.Sc in Biological Science (Botany, Zoology, Chemistry)University of Peshawar, Pakistan (2008-2010).H.S.S.C Pre-Medical
Peshawar Board, Pakistan (2006-2008)S.S.C Science SubjectsPeshawar Board, Pakistan (2004-2006).B.Ed in Education
Sarhad University of Science & Information Technology (2014).CT Certified TeacherAllama Iqbal Open University (2016).

🔬 Research Experience

Researcher at Biomolecular Genetic Engineering Lab, International Islamic University Islamabad (4 years).Research Associate in Pak-US Science and Technology Cooperation Program (1 year).Researcher in MiND Laboratory, Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Toronto, Canada (6 months)

💼 Work Experience

Visiting Lecturer at Department of Biological Sciences, IIUI (3 years).Lecturer at IQRA College of Technology, IIUI (2 years)

 

🛠️ Skills

Laboratory Skills: PCR, NGS data analysis, Microarray, Gene Cloning, Cell Culturing, etc.Computer Skills: Python, Sentieon, Verseq, Exomiser, Excel, PowerPoint, Word.

🏆 Awards

IRSIP Award from the Higher Education Commission (HEC) Pakistan.First position holder in PhD coursework.Selected as Research Associate in a Pak-US project.

🌍 Collaborations

Currently working with three international and several national collaborations.

📚 Publications

  1. Title: Biallelic variants identified in 36 Pakistani families and trios with autism spectrum disorder
    Authors: Hamid Khan, Ricardo Harripaul, Anna Mikhailov, Sumayah Herzi, …
    Year: 2024

 

  1. Title: Elucidating the clinical and genetic spectrum of inositol polyphosphate phosphatase INPP4A-related neurodevelopmental disorder
    Authors: Lettie E Rawlins, Reza Maroofian, Stuart J Cannon, Muhannad Daana, Mina Zamani, Shamsul Ghani, …
    Year: 2024

 

  1. Title: Nigella sativa extract abrogates traumatic brain injury-induced memory impairment in adult mice
    Authors: RU Khan, SM Jawad, MM Kiyani, SA Shah, S Bashir, Hamid Khan
    Year: 2024

 

  1. Title: Mutational spectrum associated with oculocutaneous albinism and Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome in nine Pakistani families
    Authors: J Khan, S Asif, S Ghani, Hamid Khan, MW Arshad, SA Khan, S Lin, EL Baple, …
    Year: 2024

 

  1. Title: An Update on Recent Advancement in Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment Strategies
    Authors: Hamid Khan, M Uzair, H Riaz, B Khan, MI Shabbir
    Year: 2023

Conclusion

Hamid Khan’s profile illustrates a strong commitment to advancing the field of biotechnology through research and education. His focus on the genetic underpinnings of rare disorders positions him as a valuable contributor to both academic and clinical settings. With a proven track record of research publications and collaborative projects, he is poised to make significant impacts in the realm of human genetics and molecular biology. His dedication to teaching and nurturing student curiosity further underscores his potential as an educator and mentor. As he seeks new opportunities, his combination of technical expertise, research experience, and passion for education will undoubtedly enable him to excel and inspire in any dynamic academic or research environment.