Wilfred Angie Abia | Developmental Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wilfred Angie Abia | Developmental Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Wilfred Angie Abia |  University of Yaounde 1 | Cameroon

Wilfred Angie Abia is an accomplished biochemist and food safety toxicologist whose career bridges Africa and Europe through impactful teaching, research, and international collaborations. His academic foundation in medical biochemistry, nutrition, and toxicology has evolved into a distinguished career specializing in food contaminants, mycotoxin biomonitoring, fraud detection, and risk assessment. He has held influential postdoctoral and leadership positions in projects addressing agri-food safety and consumer health protection. His contributions span mycotoxicology, food fraud prevention, One Health research, and climate-related food safety challenges. Beyond research, he plays an important role as a senior lecturer and mentor, advancing both academic excellence and professional training in food safety.

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Early Academic Pursuits

Wilfred Angie Abia began his academic journey with a strong foundation in biochemistry, focusing on medical laboratory technology, nutritional sciences, and food safety. His doctoral studies at the University of Yaoundé I provided him with advanced expertise in food contaminants, safety, and biomonitoring of multimycotoxin exposures. His early academic years were marked by interdisciplinary training that connected biochemistry, nutrition, toxicology, and public health, setting the stage for his specialized career in agri-food safety and toxicology.

Professional Endeavors

His professional career spans teaching, research, and project management across multiple institutions and international collaborations. He has held postdoctoral fellowships and senior research positions in Africa, Europe, and the United Kingdom, where he advanced projects on food safety, toxicology, and fraud detection. His work at Queen’s University Belfast included leadership roles in large-scale European initiatives, where he served as both a researcher and project manager. As a Senior Lecturer of Biochemistry and Food Safety/Toxicology at the University of Yaoundé I, he combines teaching, mentorship, and research with program coordination responsibilities, shaping the next generation of food safety professionals.

Contributions and Research Focus

Abia’s research focuses on food contaminants, safety, and human health with a special emphasis on mycotoxicology. He has pioneered studies in exposure assessment, biomarker development, and human biomonitoring, particularly in vulnerable populations. His work extends to food integrity, authenticity, fraud detection, and traceability, ensuring consumer health protection. He has contributed significantly to toxicological risk assessments of chemicals in food, drugs, and the environment, while also addressing broader themes such as climate change, food security, and the One Health approach. His unique contributions include research into the neurotoxicology of mycotoxins, highlighting the intersection of food safety and neuroscience.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Abia has been recognized through prestigious international research fellowships and visiting scholar positions in leading research centers across Europe and Africa. His involvement in high-impact projects such as MycoMarker and FoodSafer underscores his leadership in global food safety initiatives. His achievements are further strengthened by professional certifications, including specialized training in food fraud prevention, which demonstrate his commitment to continuous professional growth and excellence in his field.

Impact and Influence

His work has had a profound impact on advancing food safety research, shaping policies, and protecting public health. By bridging biochemistry with toxicology, agri-food safety, and environmental sciences, he has influenced how food contaminants and fraud are detected and managed. His role as a lecturer and mentor ensures that his expertise is transmitted to students and young researchers who will continue to advance the field. His contributions also extend to policy and science diplomacy, where he actively promotes interdisciplinary collaboration for sustainable solutions in food and health security.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Abia’s legacy lies in his dedication to safeguarding food systems, advancing toxicological research, and promoting interdisciplinary approaches that connect human, animal, and environmental health. His work in mycotoxin biomonitoring and neurotoxicology offers critical insights into the hidden health risks of food contamination. Looking ahead, his future contributions are likely to expand in areas of food fraud prevention, climate-smart agriculture, and One Health frameworks, ensuring resilient food systems for global populations. His combination of research excellence, teaching, and science diplomacy positions him as a thought leader in shaping the future of food safety and toxicology.

Publications

  • Title: Determination of multi-mycotoxin occurrence in cereals, nuts and their products in Cameroon by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
    Authors: WA Abia, B Warth, M Sulyok, R Krska, AN Tchana, PB Njobeh, MF Dutton, …
    Year: 2013

  • Title: Mycotoxin exposure in rural residents in northern Nigeria: A pilot study using multi-urinary biomarkers
    Authors: CN Ezekiel, B Warth, IM Ogara, WA Abia, VC Ezekiel, J Atehnkeng, …
    Year: 2014

  • Title: Development and validation of a rapid multi‐biomarker liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry method to assess human exposure to mycotoxins
    Authors: B Warth, M Sulyok, P Fruhmann, H Mikula, F Berthiller, R Schuhmacher, …
    Year: 2012

  • Title: Bio-monitoring of mycotoxin exposure in Cameroon using a urinary multi-biomarker approach
    Authors: WA Abia, B Warth, M Sulyok, R Krska, A Tchana, PB Njobeh, PC Turner, …
    Year: 2013

  • Title: Ultra-sensitive, stable isotope assisted quantification of multiple urinary mycotoxin exposure biomarkers
    Authors: B Šarkanj, CN Ezekiel, PC Turner, WA Abia, M Rychlik, R Krska, M Sulyok, …
    Year: 2018

  • Title: Low doses of mycotoxin mixtures below EU regulatory limits can negatively affect the performance of broiler chickens: A longitudinal study
    Authors: O Kolawole, A Graham, C Donaldson, B Owens, WA Abia, J Meneely, …
    Year: 2020

  • Title: Urinary analysis reveals high deoxynivalenol exposure in pregnant women from Croatia
    Authors: B Šarkanj, B Warth, S Uhlig, WA Abia, M Sulyok, T Klapec, R Krska, …
    Year: 2013

Conclusion

Wilfred Angie Abia’s work exemplifies a rare integration of scientific expertise, international leadership, and educational impact. His contributions to food safety, toxicology, and agri-food research not only safeguard public health but also strengthen global food systems. With his continued focus on innovation, interdisciplinary approaches, and capacity building, he stands as a key figure in shaping the future of food safety science and policy worldwide.

Rania Awadi | Developmental Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rania Awadi | Developmental Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rania Awadi |  Higher Institute of Medical Technologies of Tunis | Tunisia

Dr. Rania Awadi is a biophysics and medical imaging researcher whose work centers on cardiac biomechanics and non-invasive diagnostic techniques. With a PhD in biophysics and medical imaging, she has conducted advanced studies on left ventricle biomechanics using finite element modelling and gained international experience through research internships in France and collaborations with leading medical institutions in Tunisia. Her research expertise lies in cardiovascular MRI, image processing, and myocardial strain assessment, particularly in pediatric populations where diagnostic challenges are more pronounced. Among her significant contributions is a study on Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, where she applied cardiac MRI feature tracking to identify early subclinical myocardial dysfunction without contrast agents, an advancement with meaningful clinical impact.

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Early Academic Pursuits

From the outset of her academic journey, Dr. Rania Awadi cultivated a strong foundation in biophysics, medical physics, and medical imaging. Her doctoral studies at the Higher Institute of Medical Technologies of Tunis were marked by a deep focus on the biomechanics of the left ventricle, where she applied finite element modelling to explore complex cardiac dynamics. Early research internships at prestigious institutions such as IMT Atlantique in France and Sorbonne University enriched her academic profile, enabling her to refine her expertise in advanced imaging and computational modelling techniques.

Professional Endeavors

Building upon her academic training, Dr. Awadi advanced into professional roles that merged teaching and research. She joined the Higher Institute of Medical Technologies of Tunis as a lecturer in biomechanics, where she has contributed to shaping future professionals in medical physics and imaging. Her work also extended to clinical collaborations, including her involvement with the Principal Military Hospital of Tunis and Monji Ben Hmida Center, emphasizing translational research that bridges scientific innovation with patient care.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Awadi’s contributions to medical science are anchored in cardiovascular imaging and cardiac biomechanics. Her expertise lies in cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, image processing, and computational modelling, with a particular focus on assessing myocardial strain. She has addressed the unique challenges of pediatric populations, where smaller heart sizes, higher heart rates, and variability in strain demand precise methodologies. Her research has sought to make early diagnosis more accessible and reliable, especially in vulnerable groups affected by genetic and muscular disorders.

Pioneering Research on Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Among her notable achievements, Dr. Awadi conducted a pioneering study on myocardial strain assessment for early diagnosis of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in pediatric patients using cardiac MRI. Through the application of feature tracking techniques, she demonstrated the feasibility of detecting subclinical myocardial dysfunction without the use of contrast agents, reducing risks in younger patients. Her findings, published in Applied Sciences, underscored significant associations between myocardial strain parameters and structural cardiac changes, providing a non-invasive tool for monitoring disease progression in affected children.

Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Awadi’s scholarly contributions have been recognized in the international research community through publication in high-impact journals. Her work in Applied Sciences has strengthened her standing as an emerging researcher in cardiac imaging and biomechanics. Her collaborations with European and Tunisian research institutions reflect her growing reputation as a scientist capable of fostering cross-border innovation in medical imaging and biomechanics.

Impact and Influence

The impact of Dr. Awadi’s research extends beyond academic recognition to meaningful influence on clinical practices. By offering new insights into myocardial strain assessment, she has contributed to refining diagnostic approaches for conditions like Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, where early intervention can significantly alter outcomes. Her teaching and mentorship also shape a new generation of researchers and clinicians, further amplifying the reach of her work across academia and healthcare.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Awadi’s career continues to chart a path of scientific advancement and clinical relevance. With expertise spanning biomechanics, MRI, and computational modelling, she is poised to deepen investigations into cardiac function across diverse patient populations. Her future contributions are expected to expand the frontiers of non-invasive diagnostics, ensuring that her legacy in cardiovascular biomechanics and imaging is defined by both innovation and tangible impact on patient health.

Publications

Numerical study of two microwave antennas dedicated to superficial cancer hyperthermia
N. Benameur, R. Awadi, A. Bouabidi, M.A. Mohammed, M.U. Rehman, … – 2024

A quasi-static biomechanical model of the human myocardium based on Cardiac Magnetic Resonance images
R. Awadi, N. Benameur, T. Kraiem, L. Salam – 2023

Comparison of Left Ventricle Deformation Analysis Using Abaqus and CVi42 Software: Insights from Healthy Subjects and patients with Myocardial Infarction
R. Awadi, N. Benameur, A. Sleimi, L. Salam – 2025

Myocardial Strain Assessment for Early Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Diagnosis in Pediatric Patients Using Cardiac MRI
R. Awadi, N. Benameur, H. Hafsi, T.B. Younes, Y. Arous, S. Labidi, … – 2024

Left Ventricle Wall Motion Abnormalities Detection in Cardiac MRI
N. Benameur, R. Awadi, R. Mahmoudi, M. Deriche, M. Al Betar – 2023

Finite Element of Biomechanical Model of the Human Myocardium from a Cardiac MRI Images
A. Rania, N. Benameur, T. Kraiem, S. Labidi – 2022

of the Human Myocardium from a Cardiac MRI Images
A. Rania, N. Benameur, T. Kraiem, S. Labidi – 2022

Conclusion

Dr. Awadi’s career reflects a blend of academic rigor, professional dedication, and innovative research that addresses pressing clinical needs in pediatric cardiology. Her work has advanced the understanding of myocardial strain assessment, offering tools that improve early diagnosis and patient care. Through her teaching, collaborations, and published research, she has established herself as a promising figure in cardiac imaging and biomechanics. Looking forward, her contributions are set to further bridge the gap between research and clinical application, reinforcing her role as a driving force in the development of non-invasive diagnostic technologies.

Mohsen Sagha | Neurodevelopment | Best Researcher Award

Prof.Dr. Mohsen Sagha | Neurodevelopment | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Mohsen Sagha, Ardabil university of medical sciences, Iran.

Mohsen Sagha’s academic and professional journey reflects his deep commitment to anatomical sciences, embryology, and stem cell research. From his early academic pursuits in Iran to his international research experiences, he has consistently pushed the boundaries of scientific knowledge. His leadership roles at Ardabil University of Medical Sciences have allowed him to contribute significantly to research and education, mentoring future scientists and advancing the field of regenerative medicine.

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🌟 Early Academic Pursuits

Born on March 21, 1972, in Amol, Mazandaran, Iran, Mohsen Sagha demonstrated a passion for biological sciences from an early age. His academic journey began at Isfahan University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Animal Biology from 1990 to 1994, graduating with an outstanding Grade A. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a Master of Science in Histology and Embryology at Tarbiat Modarres University from 1994 to 1997, where he achieved a remarkable Grade A+. His master’s thesis, conducted at the prestigious Royan Institute under the supervision of Dr. Mohammad Hossein Nasr-Esfahani, focused on the effect of glutathione and zinc on sperm chromatin condensation. This research provided him with valuable insights into reproductive biology and cellular development, paving the way for his future contributions.

🔬 Professional Endeavors

Mohsen Sagha’s academic career took a significant leap when he embarked on a Ph.D. program in Anatomical Sciences at the Medical University of Isfahan from 2004 to 2009. His doctoral research, conducted at the Royan Institute, examined the effect of chick embryonic somites on the neural differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells. Under the guidance of esteemed mentors such as Dr. Ebrahim Esfandiari and Dr. Hossein Baharvand, he deepened his expertise in developmental biology. His pursuit of excellence extended beyond national borders when he undertook a research fellowship in Molecular Embryology at Lund University in Sweden from 2008 to 2009. His work on the proteolytic control of FGF signaling in the extracellular space under Dr. Edgar M. Pera solidified his international research reputation.

👩‍🎓 Contributions and Research Focus

With a keen interest in embryology, stem cell research, and reproductive biology, Mohsen Sagha has dedicated his career to advancing the understanding of cellular differentiation and developmental processes. Since 1998, he has been an esteemed academic staff member in the Department of Anatomical Sciences at Ardabil University of Medical Sciences (ARUMS). His leadership in research was further established when he became the Head of the Research Laboratory for Embryology and Stem Cells in 2009. Through his work, he has contributed significantly to the field of molecular embryology and regenerative medicine, exploring cellular mechanisms that hold promise for medical breakthroughs.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, Mohsen Sagha has held various leadership positions, reflecting his dedication to academic excellence and institutional development. He served as the Head of the Anatomical Sciences and Pathology Department at ARUMS from 2010 to 2017 and later took on the role of Administrator of Research and Technology from 2015 to 2020. His impact on medical education and research earned him a Full Professorship in Anatomical Sciences, highlighting his academic stature. His expertise was recognized internationally when he chaired a session at the 3rd International Caucasus Universities Association Graduate Students Symposium in 2016.

📈 Impact and Influence

Through his extensive research and leadership, Mohsen Sagha has played a pivotal role in shaping the scientific landscape of anatomical sciences and embryology in Iran. His contributions to stem cell research and molecular embryology have influenced many scholars and researchers in the field. His role in academic leadership, particularly as the Head of the Anatomical Sciences Department from 2021 to 2023, further emphasized his commitment to fostering research excellence and educational advancement. His mentorship has guided numerous students and researchers, creating a lasting academic legacy.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Mohsen Sagha’s dedication to anatomical sciences and embryology continues to inspire future generations of researchers and medical professionals. His work in stem cell research and molecular embryology holds the potential to revolutionize regenerative medicine and therapeutic applications. As an academic leader and researcher, his contributions will remain instrumental in advancing medical sciences. His vision for the future includes continued exploration of cellular differentiation processes and their implications for medical advancements, ensuring his legacy remains impactful in the scientific community.

Publication

  • Protective effect of gallic acid on testicular tissue, sperm parameters, and DNA fragmentation against toxicity induced by cyclophosphamide in adult NMRI mice
    Authors: MG Novin, MG Golmohammadi, M Sagha, SA Ziai, MA Abdollahifar, …
    Year: 2020

 

  • In vitro study of the long-term cortisol treatment effects on the growth rate and proliferation of the neural stem/precursor cells
    Authors: A Abdanipour, M Sagha, A Noori-Zadeh, I Pakzad, T Tiraihi
    Year: 2015

 

  • Protective effect of gallic acid on apoptosis of sperm and in vitro fertilization in adult male mice treated with cyclophosphamide
    Authors: Z Mehraban, M Ghaffari Novin, MG Golmohammadi, M Sagha, K Pouriran, …
    Year: 2019

 

  • In vitro neural differentiation of CD34 + stem cell populations in hair follicles by three different neural induction protocols
    Authors: N Najafzadeh, M Sagha, S Heydari Tajaddod, MG Golmohammadi, …
    Year: 2015

 

  • Serotonin depletion during the postnatal developmental period causes behavioral and cognitive alterations and decreases BDNF level in the brain of rats
    Authors: H Saadati, F Sadegzadeh, N Sakhaie, H Panahpour, M Sagha
    Year: 2021

 

  • Iron depletion with deferoxamine protects bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells against oxidative stress-induced apoptosis
    Authors: N Khoshlahni, M Sagha, T Mirzapour, MN Zarif, …
    Year: 2020

 

  • Honey and Vitamin E Restore the Plasma Level of Gonadal Hormones and Improve the Fertilization Capacity in Noise-Stressed Rats
    Authors: A Rajabzadeh, M Sagha, MR Gholami, R Hemmati
    Year: 2015

 

  • Evaluation of eating breakfast among adolescent girl students in Ardabil, 1999-2000
    Authors: A Nemati, M Sagha, H Nouzad Charvadeh, M Dehghan
    Year: 2003

 

  • Germ cell differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells
    Authors: M Salem, T Mirzapour, A Bayrami, M Sagha
    Year: 2019

 

💡 Conclusion

With a career spanning decades of groundbreaking research, academic leadership, and international collaborations, Mohsen Sagha embodies the spirit of scientific inquiry and medical advancement. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and dedication to education make him a revered figure in anatomical sciences. His legacy is one of innovation, mentorship, and profound contributions to the understanding of embryology and regenerative medicine, ensuring that his work will inspire future researchers for generations to come.

 

Elissavet Kollia | Developmental Neuroscience |Best Researcher Award

Ms. Elissavet Kollia | Developmental Neuroscience |Best Researcher Award 

Ms. Elissavet Kollia, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece.

Ms. Elissavet Kollia is a distinguished pediatrician and researcher specializing in pediatric neurology. With an exceptional academic background, she graduated from the Medical School of the Democritus University of Thrace and pursued advanced postgraduate studies in Clinical Pediatrics and Nursing-Research. Her extensive clinical training, from pediatrics specialization to her current role at Konstantopouleio General Hospital “Agia Olga,” has solidified her expertise in child healthcare. Additionally, her research focuses on movement disorders in pediatric patients with early-onset developmental and epileptic encephalopathy, contributing valuable insights to the field. Her dedication extends beyond clinical practice, as seen in her voluntary medical work and commitment to mentoring young professionals.

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

From an early age, Elissavet Kollia demonstrated exceptional academic abilities, graduating from the 4th General Lyceum of Agia Paraskevi with an outstanding general grade of “excellent 19.2.” Her passion for medicine led her to the Medical School of the Democritus University of Thrace, where she was admitted in September 2007. With dedication and perseverance, she successfully earned her medical degree in July 2013, achieving a commendable grade of “very good 8.33.” Shortly after, she obtained her license to practice as a doctor in Greece and later in Munich, Germany, reflecting her international medical competence.

🏥 Professional Endeavors

Ms. Kollia’s professional journey has been marked by extensive clinical training and hands-on experience in pediatrics. She began her specialization at the Pediatric Clinic of the General Hospital of Karpenisi from June 2014 to October 2016. Her commitment to healthcare extended beyond hospitals as she served as a rural doctor at the Primary Health Care Center of Agios Nikolaos, Evrytania, actively participating in emergency care at the General Hospital of Karpenisi. Her expertise deepened when she became a scientific associate at the Pediatric Neurology Unit of the First Pediatric Clinic of the National University of Athens. She then pursued her residency in pediatrics at the First University Pediatric Clinic – Children’s Hospital “Agia Sophia” from November 2018 to May 2022, ultimately obtaining her specialty title in June 2022. Currently, she is serving as a pediatrician at the Konstantopouleio General Hospital “Agia Olga,” continuing her mission to provide excellent pediatric care.

📝 Contributions and Research Focus

Ms. Kollia’s dedication to medical research has significantly contributed to the field of pediatric neurology. Her postgraduate studies in “Clinical Pediatrics and Nursing-Research,” completed with an exceptional grade of “Excellent 9.31,” strengthened her academic foundation. Her ongoing doctoral dissertation at the National Kapodistrian University of Athens focuses on movement disorders in pediatric patients with early-onset developmental and epileptic encephalopathy, a field crucial for advancing neurological care in children. Her research efforts have led to an upcoming publication in the European Journal of Paediatric Neurology, further establishing her as a valuable contributor to the scientific community.

🌟 Accolades and Recognition

Ms. Kollia’s unwavering commitment to medicine has been recognized through her outstanding academic achievements and professional milestones. From excelling in her graduate and postgraduate studies to securing prestigious residency and specialization opportunities, she has consistently demonstrated excellence in her field. Her acceptance into renowned institutions and her involvement in vital research projects underline her credibility and expertise in pediatric neurology.

💪 Impact and Influence

Beyond her clinical and academic contributions, Dr. Kollia has actively participated in voluntary medical programs, extending her expertise to underserved populations. She contributed to emergency case observations at the Children’s Hospital “Agia Sophia” and participated in medical landing programs in remote islands, showcasing her dedication to public health. Her influence extends to mentoring young medical professionals, sharing her knowledge, and contributing to the medical community’s growth.

💡 Legacy and Future Contributions

With a passion for advancing pediatric neurology, Dr. Kollia continues to shape the future of medical research and patient care. Her work in understanding movement disorders in children with epileptic encephalopathy holds the potential to improve diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in pediatric neurology. As she progresses in her career, her contributions to both clinical practice and scientific research will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the medical community and the lives of the children she treats.

 

Publication

  • Title: The genetic etiology in cerebral palsy mimics: the results from a Greek tertiary care center
    Authors: V Zouvelou, D Yubero, L Apostolakopoulou, E Kokkinou, M Bilanakis, …
    Year: 2019

 

  • Title: MOTOR PHENOTYPING IN A GREEK COHORT OF PATIENTS WITH NEONATAL AND INFANTILE ONSET DEVELOPMENTAL AND EPILEPTIC ENCEPHALOPATHY
    Authors: E Kollia, E Kokkinou, C Outsika, G Koltsida, V Zouvelou, A Vontzalidis, …
    Year: 2025

 

🌟 Conclusion

Ms. Kollia’s journey exemplifies the perfect blend of academic excellence, professional expertise, and compassionate patient care. Through her research and clinical endeavors, she continues to advance the understanding and treatment of pediatric neurological disorders. Her unwavering dedication to improving children’s health positions her as a leading figure in pediatric medicine. With her vision for excellence and continued contributions, she is set to leave a lasting impact on the medical field, inspiring future generations of healthcare professionals.