Kumud Bala | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Excellence in Research Award

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Prof. Kumud Bala | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Excellence in Research Award

Prof. Kumud Bala, Amity University, India.

Prof. Kumud Bala is a seasoned academic and researcher in the fields of biotechnology and immunology, with a rich educational background that includes a Ph.D. from Patna University in collaboration with AIIMS. She has over 25 years of teaching and research experience, primarily at Amity University, Noida, where she currently holds the position of Professor at the Amity Institute of Biotechnology. Her professional journey has been marked by consistent progression, interdisciplinary teaching, and impactful research. She has contributed significantly to biotechnology education through curriculum development, student mentorship, and translational research projects that align closely with real-world biomedical challenges.

Profile

Google Scholar
Orcid
Scopus

Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Kumud Bala’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in the life sciences at Patna University, where she earned her B.Sc. in Zoology in 1992, followed by an M.Sc. in Immunology in 1995. Her passion for understanding the intricate mechanisms of biological systems led her to pursue a Ph.D. in Biotechnology, a collaborative program between Patna University and AIIMS, which she successfully completed in 2003. This solid educational background laid the groundwork for her long-standing academic and research career in the field of biotechnology and immunology.

Professional Endeavors in Higher Education

Prof. Bala has cultivated a distinguished teaching and research career over nearly three decades, beginning in 1996 as a Lecturer at St. Columba’s College, Hazaribag, where she contributed for over a decade. She later joined Amity University, Noida, where she steadily rose through the academic ranks—from Senior Lecturer at the Amity Institute of Advanced Training and Research to Expert Faculty at the Amity Institute of Pharmacy, and eventually to Assistant Professor III in 2009. Her dedication and academic excellence led to her promotion as Associate Professor in 2013, and she currently serves as a Professor at the Amity Institute of Biotechnology since 2019. Her professional journey is a testament to her unwavering commitment to knowledge dissemination and academic leadership.

Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Bala’s research primarily revolves around biotechnology and immunology, with deep insights into molecular mechanisms of disease, therapeutic interventions, and diagnostic innovations. Her work often bridges interdisciplinary domains, particularly in translational research aimed at addressing immunological disorders and enhancing biotechnological applications in healthcare. Through her roles in academia, she has significantly contributed to shaping curricula, mentoring research scholars, and advancing scientific inquiry in life sciences. Her scholarly output reflects a commitment to both foundational and applied research in biomedical biotechnology.

Accolades and Recognition

While explicit accolades are not detailed in the record, Prof. Bala’s rise through academic ranks and continued tenure at a leading private university in India—Amity University—indicates a high level of institutional recognition. Her roles have involved strategic responsibilities in curriculum development, research coordination, and interdisciplinary teaching, underscoring her reputation as a trusted educator and researcher. The trust placed in her for long-term roles across diverse faculties also reflects professional respect and recognition among peers.

Impact and Influence on Biotechnology Education

Prof. Bala has profoundly influenced biotechnology education in India through her dynamic teaching methodologies and innovative research projects. Her involvement in training students from pharmacy, advanced research, and biotechnology backgrounds positions her at the center of a multidisciplinary educational landscape. Her ability to integrate academic theory with practical applications has shaped the perspectives of numerous undergraduates, postgraduates, and research aspirants, many of whom have pursued impactful careers in biomedical sciences and allied fields.

Legacy in Research and Mentorship

A hallmark of Prof. Bala’s career is her enduring legacy as a mentor and scientific guide. Her role in mentoring early-career scientists and guiding them through complex research problems stands as one of her most valuable contributions to academia. Her collaborative ethos, combined with her scientific rigor, has fostered a culture of excellence and innovation. Her efforts have ensured that research in biotechnology not only thrives in academic settings but also responds to real-world health challenges.

Future Vision and Continuing Contributions

Looking ahead, Prof. Kumud Bala continues to be an influential voice in biotechnology and immunology, actively participating in the academic and scientific community at Amity University and beyond. With the growing importance of biotechnology in global healthcare, she is uniquely positioned to lead future projects focused on interdisciplinary research, biomedical innovation, and policy-oriented science education. Her unwavering commitment to scientific growth and mentorship guarantees that her impact will be felt for generations to come.

Publication

1. Morphological examination of ear: a study of an Indian population – PK Chattopadhyay, S Bhatia – 2009


2. Herbal contraceptive: an overview – K Bala, M Arya, DP Katare – 2014


3. Adverse effect of combined oral contraceptive pills – A Shukla, R Jamwal, K Bala – 2017


4. Dealing Wildlife Offences in India: Role of the Hair as Physical Evidence – VT V Sahajpal, SP Goyal, Kumudbala Singh – 2009


5. In vitro antioxidant activity of defatted seed extracts of Ocimum sanctum on rat PC-12 cells and its inhibitory efficacy with receptors of oral squamous cell carcinoma – Y Sharma, M Bharadwaj, N Srivastava, A Kaur, M Kumar, M Agarwal, … – 2020


6. In-vitro antiproliferative efficacy of Abrus precatorius seed extracts on cervical carcinoma – A Kaur, Y Sharma, A Kumar, MP Ghosh, K Bala – 2022


7. Antioxidant activity of polyphenolic flavonoid of stem of Nicotiana tabacum – Y Sharma, A Nagar, NS Srivastava, K Bala – 2017


8. Comparative study of different parts of fruits of Musa Sp. on the basis of their antioxidant activity – Y Sharma, A Chauhan, K Bala, A Nagar – 2016


9. Preclinical assessment of stem of Nicotiana tabacum on excision wound model – Y Sharma, A Kaur, R Bhardwaj, N Srivastava, M Lal, S Madan, K Bala – 2021


10. Nosocomial infection by non-fermenting gram negative bacilli in tertiary care hospital: Screening and cure – R Wadhwa, Y Sharma, RP Upadhyay, K Bala – 2016

 

Conclusion

Prof. Kumud Bala’s career reflects a strong blend of academic rigor, research excellence, and educational leadership. Through her deep involvement in immunology and biotechnology, she has shaped the academic paths of numerous students and contributed to advancing science education in India. Her enduring commitment to scientific inquiry, mentorship, and innovation positions her as a respected figure in her field. Moving forward, her work promises to continue influencing both academic advancement and practical healthcare solutions, reinforcing her role as a pivotal contributor to the growth of life sciences in higher education.

 

Ling-Yan Su | Molecular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Ling-Yan Su | Molecular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ling-Yan Su, Yunnan Agricultural University, China.

Professor Ling-Yan Su is a leading figure in the field of food science and plant physiology, currently serving at the College of Food Science and Technology, Yunnan Agricultural University. With a solid academic foundation from Yunnan University and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, she has built a dynamic career that bridges molecular biology and applied agricultural research. Her pioneering work on melatonin-based pre-harvest treatments has significantly advanced our understanding of natural preservation techniques, especially in prolonging the post-harvest life and quality of fruits like Myrica rubra. Her research focuses on enhancing antioxidant systems, inhibiting spoilage, and activating plant defense pathways through sustainable, low-toxicity treatments.

Profile

Google Scholar

 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Ling-Yan Su’s journey in the biological sciences began with a Bachelor of Science degree from the School of Life Science at Yunnan University (2007–2011). Demonstrating academic curiosity and determination early on, she expanded her horizons through a year-long visiting student program (2010–2011) at the prestigious Kunming Institute of Zoology, affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences. This experience laid the foundation for her doctoral research, which she pursued at the same institute from 2011 to 2017, where she rigorously explored complex biological systems, further solidifying her passion for food science and plant physiology.

🧪 Professional Endeavors in Science

Professor Su’s professional career has been marked by consistent growth across esteemed academic institutions. Following her Ph.D., she joined the Kunming Institute of Zoology as a research assistant, rapidly advancing to the role of associate professor. In 2022, she transitioned to the College of Food Science and Technology at Yunnan Agricultural University, initially as an associate professor before her promotion to full professor within the same year. Her academic trajectory reflects a blend of deep research engagement and an evolving role in shaping food science education and innovation in China.

🌿 Contributions and Research Focus

Professor Su’s groundbreaking work lies at the intersection of plant physiology, post-harvest fruit biology, and food preservation technology. She has made significant contributions to understanding how melatonin, a naturally occurring compound, can be leveraged to extend the post-harvest shelf life of Myrica rubra (Chinese bayberry). Her studies demonstrate that melatonin pre-harvest treatments reduce oxidative stress markers, inhibit microbial decay, and activate the phenylpropanoid pathway, resulting in elevated antioxidant activity. This line of research not only reveals novel mechanisms of fruit preservation but also opens sustainable avenues in post-harvest biology and food safety.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

While formal awards are not listed, Professor Su’s rapid academic promotions and appointments at prestigious research institutes such as the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Yunnan Agricultural University underscore her recognition within the scientific community. Her work is contributing to a growing body of literature on sustainable food science innovations, earning her esteem among peers and collaborators in the agricultural biotechnology field.

🌱 Impact and Influence

Professor Su’s innovative application of melatonin in fruit preservation has substantial implications for food technology and agricultural practices. Her research directly addresses global concerns such as food spoilage, post-harvest losses, and chemical-free preservation methods. By enhancing natural antioxidant defenses and inhibiting spoilage at a molecular level, her work supports both farmers and consumers in accessing healthier and longer-lasting produce, especially within the context of environmentally conscious food systems.

🔬 Legacy in Food Science

The legacy Professor Su is building centers around translating scientific inquiry into practical solutions for real-world agricultural challenges. Her research is charting a course for future studies in the bio-preservation of fruits and vegetables using natural treatments. As she continues to mentor students and collaborate across disciplines, her influence is extending into the next generation of food scientists and researchers focused on plant biochemistry, post-harvest technology, and sustainable agricultural innovation.

🚀 Future Contributions and Vision

Looking ahead, Professor Ling-Yan Su is poised to further explore how endogenous compounds like melatonin can be applied across various fruits and food crops. Her vision includes broadening the scope of natural food preservation strategies and delving deeper into molecular pathways that regulate plant defense responses. As a respected academic and scientist, her future contributions are expected to shape healthier food systems and deepen scientific understanding of plant–microbe–compound interactions.

Publication

  • Guidelines for the use and interpretation of assays for monitoring autophagy (4th edition)
    Authors: DJ Klionsky, AK Abdel-Aziz, S Abdelfatah, M Abdellatif, A Abdoli, S Abel, …
    Year: 2021

 

  • Activation of PPARA-mediated autophagy reduces Alzheimer disease-like pathology and cognitive decline in a murine model
    Authors: R Luo, LY Su, G Li, J Yang, Q Liu, LX Yang, DF Zhang, H Zhou, M Xu, …
    Year: 2020

 

  • Melatonin attenuates MPTP-induced neurotoxicity via preventing CDK5-mediated autophagy and SNCA/α-synuclein aggregation
    Authors: LY Su, H Li, L Lv, YM Feng, GD Li, R Luo, HJ Zhou, XG Lei, L Ma, JL Li, …
    Year: 2015

 

  • Decreased mitochondrial DNA copy number in the hippocampus and peripheral blood during opiate addiction is mediated by autophagy and can be salvaged by melatonin
    Authors: YM Feng, YF Jia, LY Su, D Wang, L Lv, L Xu, YG Yao
    Year: 2013

 

  • Association of the LRRK2 genetic polymorphisms with leprosy in Han Chinese from Southwest China
    Authors: D Wang, L Xu, L Lv, LY Su, Y Fan, DF Zhang, R Bi, D Yu, W Zhang, XA Li, …
    Year: 2015

 

  • Atg5- and Atg7-dependent autophagy in dopaminergic neurons regulates cellular and behavioral responses to morphine
    Authors: LY Su, R Luo, Q Liu, JR Su, LX Yang, YQ Ding, L Xu, YG Yao
    Year: 2017

 

  • Positive selection rather than relaxation of functional constraint drives the evolution of vision during chicken domestication
    Authors: MS Wang, R Zhang, LY Su, Y Li, MS Peng, HQ Liu, L Zeng, DM Irwin, …
    Year: 2016

 

  • Melatonin alleviates morphine analgesic tolerance in mice by decreasing NLRP3 inflammasome activation
    Authors: Q Liu, LY Su, C Sun, L Jiao, Y Miao, M Xu, R Luo, X Zuo, R Zhou, P Zheng, …
    Year: 2020

 

  • Out of Southern East Asia of the brown rat revealed by large-scale genome sequencing
    Authors: L Zeng, C Ming, Y Li, LY Su, YH Su, NO Otecko, A Dalecky, S Donnellan, …
    Year: 2018

 

  • Moringa oleifera Lam. leaves as new raw food material: A review of its nutritional composition, functional properties, and comprehensive application
    Authors: M Yang, L Tao, XR Kang, ZL Wang, LY Su, LF Li, F Gu, CC Zhao, J Sheng, …
    Year: 2023

 

✅ Conclusion

Professor Su’s academic journey and research contributions exemplify scientific excellence rooted in sustainability and innovation. Her work not only provides practical solutions to post-harvest challenges but also contributes to broader efforts in reducing food waste and promoting natural preservation methods. As she continues to mentor young researchers and expand her studies, Professor Su is well-positioned to leave a lasting impact on food science and agricultural biotechnology. Her career reflects a thoughtful integration of research, application, and forward-looking vision in the quest for healthier and more resilient food systems.

Rosario Osta | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Prof.Dr. Rosario Osta | Molecular and Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Rosario Osta, CIBERNED-Fundación Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Aragón-Universidad de Zaragoza,  Spain.

Prof. Rosario Osta Pinzolas is a distinguished geneticist and full professor at the University of Zaragoza, Spain. Her academic roots in veterinary sciences and a Ph.D. in Genetics laid the foundation for a prolific career in biomedical research, particularly in the fields of neuroscience and genetic disorders. With leadership roles in multiple high-profile research consortia such as CIBERNED, TRICALS, and ENCALS, she has established herself as a central figure in neurodegenerative disease research. Her scholarly output includes over 100 indexed publications, multiple national and international research projects, and an h-index exceeding 45.

Profile

Orcid 

Scopus

 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Rosario Osta Pinzolas began her academic journey with a solid foundation in veterinary sciences, graduating as Licenciada en Veterinaria from the University of Zaragoza in 1989. Her academic inclinations quickly shifted toward molecular genetics, leading her to complete a Ph.D. in Genetics at the same university in 1994. Her early studies were driven by a deep curiosity about the mechanisms of heredity and gene expression, setting the tone for a lifelong commitment to biomedical research. These formative years cultivated her scientific rigor and sowed the seeds for a career that would eventually bridge basic science and translational medicine.

🧬 Professional Endeavors in Genetics and Biomedicine

Prof. Osta currently holds the esteemed title of Catedrática (Full Professor) in the Department of Anatomy, Embryology, and Genetics at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zaragoza. Since 2018, she has led her department with a focus on integrative biomedical sciences. She is the principal investigator of the LAGENBIO group recognized by both the Aragon Health Research Institute and the Government of Aragon. Under her leadership, the group has developed two major subprograms: TERAGEN and REGENERAGEN. As coordinator of the “Neuroscience and Mental Health Program” at IISA, she has spearheaded numerous efforts to understand and address neurological diseases through genetic approaches.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus in Neuroscience

A prominent figure in neuroscience, Prof. Osta’s research lies at the intersection of genetics and neurodegeneration. She is currently the principal investigator of the only Aragon-based group within CIBERNED (Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red sobre Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas), reflecting her national influence. Her team represents Zaragoza in prominent European consortia such as TRICALS and ENCALS, both focused on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other motor neuron diseases. Through more than 100 indexed publications, predominantly in top-tier journals, her work delves into the molecular underpinnings of neurological disorders and explores regenerative medicine strategies, thereby contributing to innovative therapeutic avenues.

🧪 Accolades and Recognition in Scientific Excellence

Prof. Osta’s academic and research career has been punctuated by consistent recognition. She has completed five research productivity periods and one technology transfer period, acknowledged by CNEAI — a mark of sustained scientific impact. She has led over 74 research projects and contributed to more than 100 collaboration contracts, earning her four competitive research awards from respected institutions including CORIS, AREA, IIS, and SEBBM. Her contributions have been lauded not only for scientific quality but also for practical relevance in biomedical advancements.

🚀 Innovation and Impact in Translational Research

An ardent advocate for science with societal impact, Prof. Osta has significantly contributed to technology transfer. She holds nine patents, five of which have been licensed to industry partners. Her collaborations with companies have led to meaningful translational outputs, emphasizing her role in bridging the gap between academic research and real-world solutions. As former Director of the Technology Transfer and Innovation Secretariat at the University of Zaragoza for nearly a decade, she played a crucial role in institutional innovation strategies. Her involvement in joint university-company chairs and her role in the UZ Technology-Based Business Creation Committee for over 12 years further underscore her influence on academic entrepreneurship.

📚 Mentorship and Educational Leadership

Beyond the lab, Prof. Osta has left a profound mark as an educator and mentor. Since 2013, she has coordinated the Interuniversity Doctoral Program in Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, a joint initiative between the Universities of Zaragoza and La Rioja. Her mentorship includes the supervision of 13 Ph.D. theses — 9 of which earned international distinction and 6 received extraordinary doctoral awards. Her influence extends to guiding numerous undergraduate and master’s theses, fostering a new generation of scientists with a deep commitment to research excellence and innovation.

🌍 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Rosario Osta’s legacy is defined by her ability to integrate scientific discovery, mentorship, and innovation. As a member of the Scientific Committee of the Luzón Foundation, her vision reaches beyond academia into public health advocacy and strategic research planning. With nearly 19,000 citations on Google Scholar and an h-index of 45, her work continues to inspire and inform global research communities. Her continued leadership in collaborative European projects ensures her contributions will shape the future of neuroscience, genetics, and translational medicine for years to come.

Publication

Title: Novel FKBP prolyl isomerase 1A (FKBP12) ligand promotes functional improvement in SOD1G93A amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) mice
Authors: L. Moreno-Martinez, N. Gaja-Capdevila, L. Mosqueira-Martín, R. Osta, F.J. Gil-Bea
Year: 2025

Title: Identifying Hub Genes and miRNAs Associated with Alzheimer’s Disease: A Bioinformatics Pathway to Novel Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: E. Gascón, A.C. Calvo, N. Molina, P. Zaragoza, R. Osta
Year: 2024

Title: Comparative Blood Profiling Based on ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy and Chemometrics for Differential Diagnosis of Patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis—Pilot Study
Authors: K. Tkachenko, J.M. González Sáiz, A.C. Calvo, R. Osta, C. Pizarro Millán
Year: 2024

Title: Sex differences on constitutive long non-coding RNA expression: Modulatory effect of estradiol and testosterone in muscle cells
Authors: T. López-Royo, L. Moreno-Martinez, L. Moreno-García, R. Manzano, R. Osta
Year: 2024

Title: Differentially expressed lncRNAs in SOD1 G93A mice skeletal muscle: H19, Myhas and Neat1 as potential biomarkers in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: T. López-Royo, L. Moreno-Martinez, P. Zaragoza, R. Manzano, R. Osta
Year: 2024

Title: Proteomic profiling of human plasma extracellular vesicles identifies PF4 and C1R as novel biomarker in sarcopenia
Authors: P. Aparicio, D. Navarrete-Villanueva, A. Gómez-Cabello, R. Osta, R. Manzano
Year: 2024

Title: Sporadic Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Skeletal Muscle Transcriptome Analysis: A Comprehensive Examination of Differentially Expressed Genes
Authors: E. Gascón, P. Zaragoza, A.C. Calvo, R. Osta
Year: 2024

Title: Intermediate Repeat Expansion in the ATXN2 Gene as a Risk Factor in the ALS and FTD Spanish Population
Authors: D. Borrego-Hernández, J.F. Vázquez-Costa, R. Domínguez Rubio, M. Povedano, A. García-Redondo
Year: 2024

Title: New Insights into Endogenous Retrovirus-K Transcripts in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: L. Moreno-Martinez, S. Macías-Redondo, M.H.P. Strunk, R. Osta, J. Schoorlemmer
Year: 2024

Title: Analysis of Plasma-Derived Exosomal MicroRNAs as Potential Biomarkers for Canine Idiopathic Epilepsy
Authors: M. García-Gracia, L. Moreno-Martinez, A. Hernaiz, S. García-Belenguer, I. Martín-Burriel
Year: 2024

🏆 Conclusion

Based on her outstanding research contributions, innovation in translational science, mentorship record, and leadership within national and European research programs, Prof. Rosario Osta Pinzolas is an exceptionally strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her profile reflects not only academic excellence but also societal impact and visionary leadership. While there is room for enhanced global outreach, her sustained achievements and contributions make her highly deserving of this prestigious recognition.