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.

Hakan Çiftçi | Neuropharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Neuroscientists

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hakan Çiftçi | Neuropharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hakan Çiftçi,  Afyon Kocatepe University, Turkey.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hakan Çiftçi is a distinguished academic and researcher at Afyon Kocatepe University with a strong foundation in Mining Engineering. Transitioning from field engineering to academia, he has carved a niche in mineral processing, materials science, and nanotechnology. His research focuses on innovative drug delivery systems, advanced clay-based composites, and environmental remediation techniques. With multiple high-impact publications, two patents, and active involvement in industry-driven projects, Dr. Çiftçi exemplifies interdisciplinary excellence. His work not only enhances scientific understanding but also provides practical solutions in medicine, mining, and environmental engineering.

Profile

Google Scholar

Orcid

 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Hakan Çiftçi embarked on his academic journey with a bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering from the prestigious Istanbul Technical University, graduating in 2011. His early exposure to the fundamentals of earth sciences and engineering instilled a strong foundation in mineralogy, thermodynamics, and process design. Shortly after completing his undergraduate studies, he gained firsthand industrial experience as a mining engineer. However, his passion for research and innovation soon guided him toward academia, where he would find his true calling.

🧪 Professional Endeavors in Mineral Processing

Transitioning from industry to academia, Dr. Çiftçi began his career as a research academician at Afyon Kocatepe University in the Department of Mineral Processing and Enrichment. Over the years, he steadily climbed the academic ranks to become an Associate Professor. His professional work is characterized by a multidisciplinary approach, combining traditional mineral processing techniques with modern material science, polymer chemistry, and nanotechnology, positioning him as a key contributor in applied and experimental mineral-based research.

🧬 Research Focus and Scientific Contributions

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Çiftçi’s research spans a diverse yet interconnected set of fields. He is deeply invested in the synthesis and characterization of advanced nanocomposites, particularly those based on montmorillonite and magnetite, with applications in drug delivery systems and environmental remediation. His work includes developing smart drug release systems, bone cement with antibiotic properties, and advanced bentonite-based materials for radiation shielding. His investigations also extend to dry enrichment techniques, microwave-assisted mineral dissolution, and surface property analysis of industrial materials. With over a dozen major research projects completed or ongoing, his contributions significantly enhance both theoretical understanding and industrial application.

📚 Publications, Patents, and Scholarly Output

A prolific scholar, Dr. Çiftçi has published extensively and authored a book titled “An Introduction to Montmorillonite Purification” (ISBN: 978-1-83968-603-0), which underscores his expertise in clay minerals and their purification. He holds two patents: one on a novel drug delivery system for capsaicin and another on the dry enrichment method for bentonites, reflecting his innovation-driven mindset. His citation metrics—h-index of 8 and i10-index of 7—testify to the growing academic impact of his work.

🏭 Industry Collaboration and Practical Impact

Beyond academic settings, Dr. Çiftçi collaborates with various industrial partners on impactful projects. These include analyzing morphine and codeine phosphate materials, assessing coastal sand health implications, and developing advanced enrichment devices like dynamic separators and aero cyclones. His research has immediate applicability in health, mining, and materials industries, bridging the gap between laboratory-scale research and full-scale industrial implementation.

🏅 Accolades, Recognition, and Influence

Dr. Çiftçi’s work has garnered recognition in both academic and industrial communities. His involvement in cutting-edge materials research and the integration of nanotechnology into mineral applications position him as a rising thought leader in his field. His innovations in drug delivery and sustainable mineral processing are paving the way for future advancements, particularly in therapeutic materials and environmentally conscious engineering solutions.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hakan Çiftçi aims to further advance the fusion of nanotechnology with mineral processing, contributing to smarter, safer, and more sustainable material systems. His commitment to mentoring young scientists, coupled with his broad interdisciplinary expertise, ensures a lasting legacy in academia and industry alike. As he continues to push the boundaries of traditional mineral engineering, his future contributions are expected to leave a significant imprint on the scientific community and human health.

Publication

  • Removal of methylene blue from water by ultrasound-assisted adsorption using low-cost bentonites
    H Çiftçi — 2022

 

  • Synthesis, Characterization and Cr (VI) Adsorption Properties of Modified Magnetite Nanoparticles
    H Çiftçi, B Ersoy, A Evcin — 2017

 

  • Development and evaluation of mesoporous montmorillonite/magnetite nanocomposites loaded with 5-Fluorouracil
    H Çiftçi, MD Arpa, İM Gülaçar, L Özcan, B Ersoy — 2020

 

  • Purification of Turkish Bentonites and Investigation of the Contact Angle, Surface Free Energy and Zeta Potential Profiles of Organo-Bentonites as a Function of CTAB Concentration
    H Çiftçi, B Ersoy, A Evcin — 2020

 

  • An Introduction to Montmorillonite Purification
    H Ciftci — 2021

 

  • Novel functional copolymers based on glycidyl methacrylate: Synthesis, characterization, and polymerization kinetics
    I Erol, DN Devrim, H Ciftci, B Ersoy, IH Cigerci — 2017

 

  • Utilization of Marble and Boron Waste in Brick Products
    A Evcin, B Ersoy, H Çiftçi — 2019

 

  • Pillared magnetite/clay structures as a function of Ctab and Teos concentrations
    H Çiftçi, B Ersoy, A Evcin — 2020

 

  • Afyonkarahisar bölgesi mermer parça atıklarının beton agregası olarak değerlendirilebilirliğinin araştırılması
    Z Arsoy, H Çiftçi, B Ersoy, T Uygunoğlu, B Arslan — 2019

 

  • Coal recovery from coal washing plant tailings with Knelson concentrator
    S Özgen, Z Arsoy, B Ersoy, H Çiftçi — 2019

 

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Hakan Çiftçi stands out as a dynamic and forward-thinking researcher whose multidisciplinary approach addresses real-world challenges through scientific innovation. His contributions have bridged the gap between mineral engineering and biomedical applications, positioning him as a valuable asset to the global research community. With ongoing research, patented technologies, and a commitment to future advancements, Dr. Çiftçi is poised to make lasting impacts in both academia and industry.