Sophie Grigolo | Immunology and Microbiology | Young Researcher Award

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Mrs. Sophie Grigolo | Immunology and Microbiology | Young Researcher Award

University of Fribourg | Switzerland

Mrs. Sophie Grigolo is an emerging researcher specializing in cellular and molecular biology, with a strong focus on cancer research, particularly clear-cell renal-cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Her work encompasses extensive laboratory expertise in cell culture using human kidney cancer cell lines (A-498, ACHN, Caki-1, and Caki-2) and a range of analytical assays including BrdU Cell Proliferation, MTT, LDH, and Live-or-Dye™ Fixable Viability Staining. She is proficient in advanced molecular biology techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), agarose gel electrophoresis, western blotting, genotyping, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry (IHC), which she applies to elucidate cancer cell behavior and therapeutic responses. Her publications, including studies on immunotherapy in ccRCC and the role of IL-2 receptor expression in renal carcinoma cells, contribute to advancing understanding of tumor immunology and targeted therapies. Sophie has also shared her findings at prestigious scientific forums, including the International Student Congress of (bio)Medical Sciences and the Annual European Student Symposium on Anatomical Research, where her work has earned recognition for excellence. Through her research and technical acumen, she continues to contribute to the evolving field of cancer biology and the development of innovative therapeutic approaches.

Profile : Orcid

Featured Publications

Grigolo, S., Fellay, I., & Filgueira, L. (2025). IL-2 receptor expression in renal cell carcinoma cells: IL-2 influences cell survival and induces cell death. Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 47(10), 830.

Grigolo, S., & Filgueira, L. (2024). Immunotherapy of clear-cell renal-cell carcinoma. Cancers, 16, 2092.

Mohamed Elbeeh | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr Mohamed Elbeeh | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mansoura University | Egypt

Author Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Google Scholar

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamed Elbeeh embarked on his academic journey at Mansoura University, Egypt, where he earned a B.Sc. in Zoology in 2004. His passion for comparative anatomy and embryology drove him to pursue both M.Sc. (2007) and Ph.D. (2012) degrees in the same field. His early academic foundation reflects a strong grounding in biological sciences, development, and experimental systems.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Elbeeh began his teaching career in 2005 as a Teaching Assistant at Mansoura University, progressing to Lecturer by 2012. He later joined Umm Al-Qura University in Saudi Arabia, where he served in various academic capacities, including Assistant Professor at the Institute of Scientific Research and Deanship of Scientific Research. Since 2019, he has been an Associate Professor at Al-Jumoum University College, where he contributes to academic leadership and scientific mentorship.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Elbeeh's interdisciplinary research spans natural product pharmacology, experimental diabetes models, antimicrobial resistance, and reproductive toxicology. He is particularly known for:

🌿 Investigating phytochemicals like Glycyrrhiza glabra for liver protection
🧫 Exploring anti-biofilm activity of red algae-derived silver nanoparticles
🧪 Developing therapeutic insights from cinnamon and Washingtonia filifera oil
🧬 Integrating molecular diagnostics and natural antimicrobials during Hajj surveillance projects

His expertise in in vivo modeling, histopathology, and microbial resistance profiling makes him a leader in biomedical experimentation.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Elbeeh's scholarly contributions have earned recognition globally:

🥇 Multiple publications in Q1 journals such as MDPI Biology, Scientific Reports, and International Journal of Pharmaceutics
🥇 Recognized reviewer for Wiley's Food Science journals
🥇 Featured in international research for his 2025 MDPI study on liver protection using Glycyrrhiza glabra

His work reflects a perfect balance of innovation, rigor, and global relevance.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Elbeeh’s research addresses critical global health issues such as antimicrobial resistance (AMR), metabolic disorders, and natural product-based therapeutics. His ongoing co-led project at Umm Al-Qura University, Smart Surveillance of Enteric Pathogens during Hajj, showcases his leadership in integrating public health, microbiology, and phytotherapy in high-risk contexts. He serves as a bridge between bench research and community impact, bringing scientific solutions to real-world problems, especially during mass gatherings.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

With more than 15 years of biomedical research experience, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamed Elbeeh stands at the forefront of evidence-based phytotherapy and preventive medicine. His ongoing research continues to shape the future of non-toxic, plant-derived therapeutics, especially in the context of diabetes and antimicrobial resistance. Dr. Elbeeh’s legacy is defined by his ability to translate complex biological interactions into accessible, impactful medical interventions, with a promising future in global public health research.

Publications

📄 Hepatoprotective Effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra in Diabetic Male Rats: Addressing Liver Function, Oxidative Stress, and Histopathological Changes
Authors: Abdulmajeed F. Alrefaei, Mohamed E. Elbeeh
Journal: Biology (MDPI)
Year: 2025

📄 Anticancer, Antimicrobial, Insecticidal and Molecular Docking of Sarcotrocheliol and Cholesterol from the Marine Soft Coral Sarcophyton Trocheliophorum
Authors: Mansour A.E. Bashar, Abdelaaty Hamed, Mohamed A. M. El-Tabakh, Amr H. Hashem, Ahmed A. Zaki, Abdulaziz A. Al-Askar, Eman S. Abou-Amra, Mohamed E. El-Beeh, Ahmed B. M. Mehany, Mohamed Shaaban, et al.
Journal: Scientific Reports
Year: 2024

📄 Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Activity of Monolaurin against Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Wound Infections
Authors: Shimaa Salah Hassan Abd El-Ghany, Ahmed F. Azmy, Ahmed El-Gendy, R.M. Abd El-Baky, Ahmad Mustafa, Mohammed A. S. Abourehab, Mohamed E. El‐Beeh, Reham Ali
Journal: International Journal of Microbiology
Year: 2024

📄 Correction to: Anti-aging Trait of Whey Protein Against Brain Damage of Senile Rats
Authors: El-Beeh, M.E., El-Badawi, A.A., Amin, A.H., Qari, S.H., Ramadan, M.F., Filfilan, W.M., El-Sayyad, H.I.H.
Journal: Journal of Umm Al-Qura University for Applied Sciences
Year: 2023

📄 Gypsogenin Battling for a Front Position in the Pentacyclic Triterpenes Game of Thrones on Anti-Cancer Therapy: A Critical Review
Authors: Radwan, M.O., Abd-Alla, H.I., Alsaggaf, A.T., El-Mezayen, H., Abourehab, M.A.S., El-Beeh, M.E., Tateishi, H., Otsuka, M., Fujita, M.
Journal: Molecules
Year: 2023

Theopista Lotto | Health Professions | Best Research Article Award

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Ms. Theopista Lotto | Health Professions | Best Research Article Award

Ifakara Health Institute | Tanzania

Author Profile

Orcid

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Ms. Theopista Lotto embarked on her academic journey with a deep commitment to healthcare and research. She earned her Bachelor of Pharmacy from Muhimbili University, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (2003-2007), laying a strong foundation in pharmaceutical sciences. Her passion for healthcare monitoring and evaluation led her to pursue an MSc in Health Monitoring and Evaluation at Mzumbe University, Morogoro, Tanzania (2013-2015). Further advancing her expertise, she attained a PhD in Epidemiology and Public Health from Swiss TPH, Switzerland (2021-2023), equipping her with cutting-edge skills in public health research and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) studies.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Ms. Lotto has demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise in public health, antimicrobial stewardship, and pharmaceutical research through her extensive professional journey. She currently serves as an M&E Advisor for the CDC Project on Sustainable Health System Strengthening at Mzumbe University (2024-Present), where she designs and implements evaluation frameworks and supports national health initiatives. Her role as a Technical Expert and In-Country Consultant for the Commonwealth Pharmacist Association (2023-Present) underscores her influence in antimicrobial stewardship, ensuring that healthcare programs align with Tanzania’s National Action Plan on AMR. Previously, she was a Research Scientist at Ifakara Health Institute (2020-2024), where she led multiple AMR surveillance projects and cross-sectional studies on antimicrobial use. Her earlier career includes impactful roles such as M&E Advisor at Tanzania Institute of Monitoring and Evaluation (2019-2020), DHIS2 Coordinator at Mbeya District Council (2015-2019), and District Pharmacist at Mbeya District Council (2009-2015). These positions highlight her extensive experience in data-driven decision-making, pharmaceutical logistics, and healthcare policy implementation.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Ms. Lotto’s research focuses on antimicrobial resistance, antimicrobial stewardship, public health surveillance, and health system strengthening. She has played a pivotal role in:

  • Designing and leading AMU & AMS projects at Ifakara Health Institute, conducting large-scale community surveys to assess antimicrobial use in Tanzania.
  • Implementing electronic Clinical Decision Support Algorithms (CDSA) to promote antibiotic stewardship and improve pediatric healthcare outcomes.
  • Enhancing health monitoring systems through her expertise in Health Information Systems (DHIS2) and supporting national stakeholders with data-driven decision-making.

Her research has significantly contributed to the development of antimicrobial resistance policies, ensuring that Tanzania aligns with global AMR mitigation strategies.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Ms. Lotto’s contributions have earned her recognition as a leading researcher in public health and pharmacy. She has been instrumental in multiple government and international health projects, showcasing her ability to foster cross-sector collaborations with organizations like the CDC, Commonwealth Pharmacist Association, and Ifakara Health Institute. Her technical expertise in antimicrobial stewardship has positioned her as a sought-after consultant in Tanzania’s healthcare system.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Ms. Lotto’s work has had a far-reaching impact on Tanzania’s public health landscape. She has:

  • Strengthened AMR surveillance and antimicrobial stewardship programs at a national level.
  • Improved healthcare monitoring and evaluation frameworks through innovative data collection and analysis.
  • Supported policy formulation and implementation, working closely with government ministries and international health bodies.
  • Provided training and mentorship to healthcare professionals, ensuring sustainable knowledge transfer in pharmaceutical management and public health research.

Her influence extends beyond research; she actively engages policymakers, healthcare practitioners, and academic institutions to drive meaningful change in the fight against AMR.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a visionary leader in public health and pharmacy, Ms. Lotto continues to pave the way for stronger healthcare systems in Tanzania. Her future contributions are expected to focus on:

  • Expanding AMR research to include more comprehensive national and regional studies.
  • Developing innovative pharmaceutical management tools to optimize drug distribution and usage.
  • Strengthening international collaborations to combat antimicrobial resistance on a global scale.
  • Training and mentoring the next generation of researchers in epidemiology and public health.

With her unwavering dedication and expertise, Ms. Lotto is set to leave a lasting legacy in global health research and pharmaceutical sciences, ensuring sustainable and evidence-based healthcare practices for generations to come.

 

Publications

📄 Population-Based Prevalence of Antibiotic Residuals in Low, Moderate and High Malaria Endemicity Areas in Tanzania
Author(s): Theopista Lotto, Joanna Gallay, Martin Zuakulu, Beatrice Ternon, Laurent Arthur Decosterd, Alexandra V. Kulinkina, Blaise Genton
Journal: Antibiotics
Year: 2025

Sejal Parekh | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Sejal Parekh | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

NHS England | United Kingdom

Author Profile

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Sejal Parekh embarked on her academic journey with a Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) from University College London, where she honed her expertise in pharmaceutical sciences. In 2017, she furthered her education with a Master’s in Clinical Research (MRes), funded by the NIHR. This strong academic foundation in pharmacy and clinical research equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Sejal’s career spans diverse roles within both hospital and community pharmacy settings. She has been instrumental in leading national quality improvement initiatives, particularly as a Senior Project/Policy Manager at NHS England. Her role involved developing criteria for the Pharmacy Quality Scheme (PQS) and liaising with stakeholders like NHS Digital, Public Health England, and the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee (PSNC). Her work, particularly during the pandemic, led to the implementation of infection control measures, influencing community pharmacy operations across the country.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Sejal's contributions are deeply rooted in antimicrobial stewardship, service delivery, and policy writing. A notable project was her leadership in the NSAID safety audit within community pharmacies, where she identified a significant gap in gastroprotection for patients on NSAIDs. Her findings prompted recommendations that improved patient safety in primary care, aligning with the WHO Global Patient Safety Challenge. Sejal has co-authored several reports and articles that are widely recognized within the medical community.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Throughout her career, Sejal has received several awards, including:

  • HSJ Winner: Patient Safety Team of 2023 for her work on the Pharmacy Quality Scheme.
  • She was also the Pre-registration Trainee Pharmacist of the Year for London (2003) and a GlaxoSmithKline Prize recipient for her work on smoking cessation.

Her accolades underscore her dedication to patient safety and innovative pharmaceutical care.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Sejal's work has had a profound impact on community pharmacy in the UK. Her development of safer prescribing initiatives and infection control protocols, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has contributed to national improvements in healthcare delivery. Her ability to collaborate across teams and organizations has resulted in smoother policy implementations and improved patient outcomes.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

As a thought leader in pharmacy, Sejal Parekh’s legacy is built upon her pioneering work in antimicrobial stewardship and patient safety. Her ongoing contributions to the Pharmacy Quality Scheme and national healthcare initiatives demonstrate her commitment to improving service quality. With her recent role as a Programme Manager for NHS England, Sejal is poised to continue making impactful changes in the healthcare landscape. Her future endeavors will likely include further innovations in pharmacy services, ensuring continued excellence in patient care.

 

Publications

  • 📚 "An Evaluation of Oral Anticoagulant Safety Indicators by England’s Community Pharmacies"
    Journal: Pharmacy, Year: 2024
    Authors: Sejal Parekh, Lingqian Xu, Carina Livingstone
  • 📚 "Responding to Urinary Tract Infection Symptoms in England’s Community Pharmacies"
    Journal: Antibiotics, Year: 2023
    Authors: Sejal Parekh, Kieran S Hand, Lingqian Xu, Victoria Roberts, Fionna Pursey, Diane Ashiru-Oredope, Donna Lecky
  • 📚 "The National Implementation of a Community Pharmacy Antimicrobial Stewardship Intervention (PAMSI) through the English Pharmacy Quality Scheme 2020 to 2022"
    Journal: Antibiotics, Year: 2023
    Authors: Catherine Hayes, Sejal Parekh, Donna Lecky, Jill Loader, Carry Triggs-Hodge, Diane Ashiru-Oredope
  • 📚 "ESPAUR Report 2021 to 2022 Chapter 5: NHS England Improvement and Assurance Schemes"
    Journal: Medical Sciences Forum, Year: 2023
    Authors: Kieran S Hand, Diane Ashiru-Oredope, Elizabeth Beech, Sabine Bou-Antoun, Gillian Damant, Naomi Fleming, Catherine Hayes, Philip Howard, Conor Jamieson, Monsey McLeod et al.
  • 📚 "National Antimicrobial Stewardship Activities in Primary and Secondary Care in England 2021–22 (ESPAUR Report)"
    Journal: Medical Sciences Forum, Year: 2023
    Authors: Ella Casale, Catherine Hayes, Donna Lecky, Luke O’Neil, Eirwen Sides, Emily Cooper, Fionna Pursey, Sejal Parekh, Eleanor J. Harvey, Diane Ashiru-Oredope