Norma Inés Hilgert | Ethnobotany | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Norma Inés Hilgert | Ethnobotany | Best Researcher Award

Investigador Principal at Instituto de Biología Subtropical, CONICET-UNaM-, Argentina

Dr. Norma Inés Hilgert is a distinguished researcher specializing in ethnobiology, focusing on the dynamic relationship between indigenous communities and subtropical forest ecosystems in Argentina. With a PhD in Biological Sciences, she has dedicated her career to studying biocultural conservation, sustainable use of non-timber forest products, and the socio-ecological impacts of traditional practices on biodiversity. Affiliated with CONICET and the Instituto de Biología Subtropical, Dr. Hilgert integrates ecological, cultural, and socio-economic perspectives in her interdisciplinary research. She holds associate professorships at prominent Argentine universities, where she teaches and mentors graduate students in ethnoecology and research methodologies. Her work emphasizes the conservation of landscapes through community engagement and sustainable resource management. Through national and regional collaborations, she contributes significantly to biodiversity conservation and environmental education. Dr. Hilgert’s research not only advances scientific knowledge but also supports the preservation of cultural heritage, making her a leading figure in her field with strong academic and societal impact.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Dr. Norma Inés Hilgert holds a robust academic background in biological sciences, beginning with her undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences from the Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, where she specialized in community ecology. She completed this degree in 1992, laying the foundation for her future research in ecology and ethnobiology. In 1999, Dr. Hilgert earned her doctorate in Biological Sciences from the same university, with a dissertation focused on the ethnobotanical uses of plants among rural communities in the Salta province of Argentina. Her doctoral research explored the relationship between local subsistence practices and plant resources, highlighting her early commitment to the integration of cultural and ecological knowledge. Following her PhD, she pursued postdoctoral studies centered on medicinal plants within therapeutic systems at CONICET, further expanding her expertise in ethnobiology and plant conservation. Dr. Hilgert has also completed numerous specialized courses and research stays, including training in plant domestication and genetic resource management, which have enriched her interdisciplinary approach to biodiversity and conservation science.

Professional Experience 💼 

Dr. Norma Inés Hilgert has an extensive professional career centered on ethnobiology and biodiversity conservation, primarily within Argentina’s subtropical forests. She is a researcher at CONICET and the Instituto de Biología Subtropical (IBS), where she leads and participates in interdisciplinary projects examining the sustainable use of forest resources and the socio-ecological relationships of indigenous and local communities. In academia, Dr. Hilgert holds associate professor positions at the Universidad Nacional de Misiones and the Universidad Nacional de Jujuy, teaching courses in ethnoecology, research methodology, and scientific knowledge at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. She supervises graduate theses and contributes to curriculum development, including specialized diplomas such as Sustainable Meliponiculture. Her research spans diverse topics, from the conservation of wild plant populations to the role of traditional ecological knowledge in landscape management. Dr. Hilgert’s work bridges scientific inquiry and community engagement, reflecting a commitment to both academic excellence and practical conservation outcomes.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Norma Inés Hilgert’s research interests lie at the intersection of ethnobiology, conservation biology, and sustainable resource management. She focuses on understanding the intricate relationships between indigenous and local communities and their natural environments within the subtropical forests of Argentina, including the Atlantic Forest, Chaco, and Yungas regions. Her work explores how traditional knowledge and cultural practices contribute to biodiversity conservation, emphasizing the concept of conservation through sustainable use of non-timber forest products such as plants and wild honey. Dr. Hilgert investigates the socio-ecological dynamics of human-forest interactions, including the management of wild populations of key species like Euterpe edulis and the impact of landscape fragmentation on genetic diversity. Additionally, she is interested in the role of ethnoecology in environmental education and intercultural bilingual programs, aiming to integrate scientific and traditional knowledge for better conservation outcomes. Her interdisciplinary approach combines ecological, cultural, and socio-economic perspectives to promote biocultural conservation and sustainable development.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Norma Inés Hilgert possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that enable her to conduct interdisciplinary studies at the nexus of ethnobiology, ecology, and conservation science. She is highly skilled in qualitative and quantitative research methods, including ethnographic fieldwork, participatory observation, and interviews to document traditional ecological knowledge and cultural practices of indigenous and local communities. Her expertise extends to ecological data collection and analysis, focusing on plant population dynamics, biodiversity assessment, and landscape fragmentation. Dr. Hilgert is proficient in managing and analyzing complex datasets related to genetic diversity and resource use patterns. She also excels in designing and implementing multidisciplinary research projects that integrate social and biological sciences. Her skills in scientific writing, grant proposal development, and dissemination of results through academic publications and presentations are well established. Additionally, Dr. Hilgert has strong mentoring capabilities, guiding students and collaborators in research methodologies, contributing to capacity building in conservation and ethnobiology.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Norma Inés Hilgert has been recognized for her significant contributions to ethnobiology and biodiversity conservation through various awards and honors over her career. As a respected researcher at CONICET, Argentina’s premier scientific research institution, she has gained national recognition for her impactful studies on the sustainable use of forest resources and the integration of traditional ecological knowledge in conservation practices. Her academic excellence is further highlighted by her associate professorships at leading Argentine universities, where she has been honored for her dedication to teaching and mentoring graduate students. Dr. Hilgert’s work has also been acknowledged in scientific communities through invitations to participate in conferences, workshops, and collaborative networks focused on conservation and ethnobiology. Although specific awards may not be detailed in her CV, her sustained leadership in interdisciplinary research, combined with her contributions to community-based conservation and environmental education, positions her as a distinguished scientist deserving of prestigious accolades in her field.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Norma Ines Hilgert demonstrates a strong candidacy for the Best Researcher Award given her solid academic background, focused and impactful research in ethnobiology and biodiversity conservation, and her leadership roles in higher education. Her work significantly contributes to understanding and preserving subtropical forest ecosystems through an interdisciplinary approach integrating social and biological sciences.

To maximize her competitiveness for the award, enhancing her international profile and providing clear quantitative research metrics will be beneficial. Overall, she is highly suitable and deserving recognition for her contributions to science, conservation, and education.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Chamorro, F.J., Galetto, L., Hilgert, N.I. (2025). Local food plant diversity and cultural significance in the Atlantic Forest: a comprehensive ethnobiological synthesis for a humanly disturbed but mega-diverse region. Biodiversity and Conservation, 34(4), 1177-1209. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10531-025-03018-9

  • Sackser, M.G., Rojas, L., Keller, H.A., Hilgert, N.I. (2025). Diversity of plant species used as firewood in indigenous colonized communities: An ethnobotanical study in East Misiones, Argentina. Forest Policy and Economics.

  • Vandebroek, I., Stepp, J.R., Kunwar, R., Timsina, S., Albuquerque, U.P., … Hilgert, N.I. (Year not specified). Upholding Ethical Accountability in Ethnobotany and Ethnobiology Research. [Editorial].

Minahil Khalid | Ethnobotany | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Minahil Khalid | Ethnobotany | Best Researcher Award

Resercher at Women University Multan, Pakistan

Mrs. Minahil Khalid is a dedicated researcher specializing in microbiology and molecular genetics, with a strong focus on antimicrobial resistance, drug design, and nanomaterial synthesis. She recently completed her MPhil at The Women University Multan, where her thesis explored the antimicrobial potential of biogenic silver nanoparticles combined with plant secondary metabolites against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Minahil has demonstrated technical expertise in advanced laboratory techniques and bioinformatics tools, alongside proficiency in data analysis using Python. She has published research in reputable journals and actively participates in international conferences, often as an invited speaker, reflecting her growing recognition in the scientific community. Her academic excellence is complemented by various awards and scholarships, highlighting her commitment to continuous learning and innovation. With a promising research trajectory addressing urgent global health challenges, Minahil is a rising scientist whose work bridges microbiology, nanotechnology, and infectious disease control, making her a strong candidate for research awards and further academic advancement.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Mrs. Minahil Khalid completed her MPhil in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics at The Women University Multan, Pakistan, from 2021 to 2023, achieving a CGPA of 3.70/4. Her MPhil thesis focused on the antimicrobial potential of nanoparticles mediated by secondary metabolites from Linum usitatissimum and Pimpinella anisum, investigating their effectiveness against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Prior to this, she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics from the same university between 2017 and 2021, with a CGPA of 3.34/4. During her undergraduate studies, she actively engaged in research projects, including work on the diagnosis and treatment of typhoid fever and studies related to COVID-19, which earned her first place in departmental competitions. Her strong academic foundation is further supported by internships and research training at reputable institutions like the University of Health Sciences Lahore and Nishtar Hospital Multan, where she gained practical experience in clinical microbiology and molecular diagnostics.

Professional Experience 💼 

Mrs. Minahil Khalid has gained valuable professional experience through research internships and practical laboratory work in the field of microbiology and molecular genetics. She completed a summer internship at the University of Health Sciences Lahore in 2020, where she focused on family medicine and COVID-19 disease surveillance, enhancing her understanding of infectious disease monitoring in large populations. Additionally, she worked as an Assistant Microbiologist in the Pathology Department at Nishtar Hospital Multan from July to August 2019. There, she conducted crucial laboratory tests including culture tests for bacterial infections, PCR diagnostics for infectious diseases, and biochemical and hematological analyses. Her responsibilities also involved root cause analysis for tuberculosis and influenza pathogens, showcasing her ability to apply microbiological techniques in clinical settings. Mrs. Khalid’s technical expertise extends to advanced laboratory methodologies such as UV-Vis spectroscopy, gel electrophoresis, and various microscopic and spectral analyses, complemented by bioinformatics and data analysis skills using Python, positioning her as a skilled and versatile researcher.

Research Interest 🔬

Mrs. Minahil Khalid’s research interests lie at the intersection of microbiology, molecular genetics, and nanotechnology, with a strong emphasis on combating antimicrobial resistance—a critical global health issue. She focuses on the design and synthesis of bioactive metabolites and nanoparticles, particularly silver nanoparticles mediated by microorganisms, to enhance the antimicrobial efficacy of medicinal . Her work explores the synergistic effects of these nanoparticles with secondary plant metabolites against multidrug-resistant bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Additionally, she is interested in multi-omics analysis and the application of computational tools like Python for medical data analysis, which helps in understanding infectious disease mechanisms and improving disease control strategies. Her research aims to bridge fundamental microbiology with innovative nanomaterial applications to develop novel therapeutic approaches. Overall, Mrs. Khalid is committed to advancing infectious disease management through interdisciplinary approaches, integrating drug design, molecular biology, and data-driven methodologies for impactful scientific contributions.

Research Skill🔎

Mrs. Minahil Khalid possesses a diverse set of research skills that combine experimental techniques with computational analysis. She is proficient in advanced laboratory methods, including UV-Vis spectroscopy, agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, FTIR, SEM, and XRD analysis, which enable her to characterize nanoparticles and biological samples effectively. Her experience extends to molecular biology techniques such as PCR diagnostics and microbial culture tests used for identifying infectious agents. Additionally, Mrs. Khalid is skilled in bioinformatics tools like MEGA-X and BLAST for analyzing protein and DNA sequences, as well as interpreting evolutionary relationships. She is also adept at data analysis and visualization, utilizing software such as ORIGIN-PRO, Excel, PowerPoint, and Canva. Notably, she employs Python programming, using libraries like Pandas and NumPy, to perform statistical analyses and manage large datasets, demonstrating her capability to integrate computational approaches into biological research. This combination of practical and analytical skills underscores her competence in conducting interdisciplinary microbiological research.

Award and Honor🏆

Mrs. Minahil Khalid has received several awards and honors recognizing her academic excellence and research contributions. She was awarded first position in the online poster competition organized by the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics at The Women University Multan, reflecting her strong presentation and research skills. She holds a Certificate of Membership as a Global Outreach Student Member of the American Society for Microbiology, highlighting her active engagement with the international scientific community. Mrs. Khalid has been honored with the Commonwealth of Learning Scholarship through Coursera, which supported her continuous professional development. Additionally, she received certificates of appreciation for outstanding academic performance from City Science School and College and Nishat High School, acknowledging her consistent excellence from early education stages. Her participation in prestigious international conferences and symposia further underscores her recognition as a promising researcher. These awards and honors collectively demonstrate her dedication, scholarly achievements, and growing impact in the field of microbiology and molecular genetics.

Conclusion📝

Minahil Khalid exhibits strong potential and current achievements that make her a competitive candidate for the Best Researcher Award at this stage of her academic career. Her innovative research in antimicrobial resistance and nanotechnology, coupled with active participation in international forums and commendable academic record, clearly demonstrate research excellence and dedication.

To maximize her competitiveness for this award, focusing on expanding her publication impact, acquiring research funding, and pursuing further academic advancement would be beneficial. Overall, she is highly suitable for recognition as a promising and impactful young researcher contributing to critical global health challenges.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Title: Global, regional, and national prevalence of adult overweight and obesity, 1990–2021, with forecasts to 2050: a forecasting study for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
    Authors: M. Ng, E.E. Gakidou, J. Lo, M. Al-Wardat, Y.M. Al-Worafi, et al.
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 9

  • Title: Global, regional, and national prevalence of child and adolescent overweight and obesity, 1990–2021, with forecasts to 2050: a forecasting study for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
    Authors: J.A. Kerr, G.C. Patton, K.I. Cini, F.J. Alvi, N.R. Alvis-Guzman, et al.
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 9

  • Title: Microbial mediated silver nanoparticles enhance the potential of bioactive metabolites in the medicinal plant Linum usitatissimum
    Authors: M. Khalid, M. Noreen
    Journal: RSC Advances
    Year: 2025
    Citations: Not specified

Li Guan | Botanical Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Li Guan | Botanical Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

Lecture/Master’s supervisor at Jinzhou Medical University, China

Dr. Li Guan is a dedicated researcher and lecturer at Jinzhou Medical University with a strong academic background in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. She earned her Ph.D. from Northeast Forestry University and is currently completing a postdoctoral fellowship at Hunan University. Her research focuses on the pharmacological effects of plant exosomes and protein signal transduction in plant nuclear membrane proteins—fields with growing biomedical relevance. Dr. Guan has published three SCI Q1-indexed journal articles and holds two patents, demonstrating both research quality and innovation. She actively mentors graduate students, one of whom has published under her guidance, and maintains collaborations with institutions such as the Liaoning Collaborative Innovation Center. In addition to her editorial role, she is a member of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Society. With a commitment to cutting-edge research and academic growth, Dr. Li Guan represents a promising early-career scientist with the potential for significant future contributions.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Dr. Li Guan has a solid and progressive academic background that reflects her dedication to the field of life sciences. She began her higher education at Northeast Forestry University, earning a dual bachelor’s degree in Forestry and English in 2014. She continued at the same institution to pursue a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, which she completed in December 2020. Her doctoral research focused on plant vesicle transport, laying the foundation for her future work in molecular plant science. In January 2021, she commenced a postdoctoral fellowship at Hunan University, where she expanded her research into protein signal transduction in plant nuclear membrane proteins. Since December 2022, Dr. Guan has served as a lecturer and master’s supervisor at Jinzhou Medical University, where she guides graduate students and continues her investigations into plant exosomes. Her academic journey demonstrates a consistent focus on innovative and relevant research in the biological sciences.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Li Guan has cultivated a focused and steadily advancing professional career in academic research and teaching. Her professional journey began with her postdoctoral fellowship at Hunan University in January 2021, where she conducted research on protein signal transduction in plant nuclear membrane proteins. This role allowed her to deepen her expertise in molecular biology while contributing to high-impact scientific publications. In December 2022, she was appointed as a lecturer and master’s supervisor at Jinzhou Medical University. In this role, she has taken on both teaching responsibilities and active research, particularly in the area of plant exosomes and their pharmacological effects. Dr. Guan has successfully mentored graduate students, one of whom has published an SCI Q1-indexed article under her supervision. Her involvement in collaborative research with institutions such as the Liaoning Collaborative Innovation Center further reflects her growing influence in the scientific community and commitment to advancing plant-based biomedical research.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Li Guan’s research interests lie at the intersection of plant molecular biology and biomedical science, with a particular focus on the pharmacological effects of plant-derived exosomes and protein signal transduction mechanisms. She is deeply engaged in exploring how plant exosomes—nano-sized vesicles involved in intercellular communication—can influence biological processes and potentially serve as natural drug delivery systems. During her doctoral studies, she concentrated on plant vesicle transport, which laid the groundwork for her continued interest in cellular signaling pathways. Her postdoctoral research expanded into protein signaling within plant nuclear membrane proteins, further enhancing her understanding of intracellular communication. Dr. Guan is especially interested in the potential biomedical applications of plant exosomes, including their role in inflammation, immune modulation, and targeted therapies. Her research aims to bridge the gap between plant science and human health, offering innovative insights into how natural systems can inspire therapeutic advancements in modern medicine.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Li Guan possesses a diverse set of research skills rooted in molecular biology, biochemistry, and plant science. She is proficient in advanced laboratory techniques such as protein extraction and analysis, gene expression profiling, vesicle isolation, and fluorescence microscopy. Her expertise extends to working with plant-derived exosomes, including their extraction, purification, and functional analysis, which are essential for investigating their pharmacological properties. Dr. Guan also has experience in molecular cloning, Western blotting, and signal transduction assays, particularly in the context of plant nuclear membrane proteins. She demonstrates strong analytical skills in interpreting experimental data and has contributed to peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals. Additionally, her ability to manage independent research projects, guide graduate students, and collaborate across disciplines highlights her project management and leadership capabilities. Dr. Guan’s combined technical proficiency, scientific curiosity, and commitment to innovation enable her to contribute meaningfully to cutting-edge research in plant-based biomedical applications.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Li Guan is an emerging researcher who has begun to gain recognition for her contributions to plant molecular biology and pharmacological research. While she is still in the early stages of her academic career, her work has been acknowledged through the publication of multiple high-impact SCI Q1-indexed articles, which is a notable achievement in the scientific community. She has also successfully filed two patents related to her research, reflecting her focus on innovation and applied science. In addition, her appointment as a lecturer and master’s supervisor at Jinzhou Medical University, along with her editorial role in a scientific journal, highlights the professional trust and respect she has earned. Dr. Guan is an active member of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Society, which provides her with opportunities for academic networking and engagement. As her career progresses, she is well-positioned to receive further honors and awards for her valuable scientific contributions.

Conclusion📝

Li Guan is a promising early-career researcher with strong academic credentials, niche research specialization, and quality publications in high-impact journals. Her contribution to the understanding of plant exosomes and protein signaling is commendable and relevant to modern biosciences.

However, for a Best Researcher Award, which typically recognizes sustained excellence and broad impact, the current portfolio may be better suited for categories like:

  • Young Scientist Award

  • Best Research Scholar Award

  • Women Research Award

If citation impact and project volume improve in the coming years, Li Guan would be a stronger contender for the Best Researcher Award. For now, she shows strong potential and a commendable start to her academic career.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Title: FERONIA interacts with NPL4 to regulate immunity gene mRNA nucleocytoplasmic transport in response to plant immunity

  • Journal: Plant Science

  • Publication Type: Journal Article

  • Year: 2025 (August)

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2025.112545

  • Authors: Li Guan, Peilong Wang, Yongliang Li, Sufang Zhang

  • Citation Count: [Citation data not yet available] (As it is an upcoming 2025 publication, citation count may not yet be recorded in databases)