Sarra Maamri | Herbal Medicine | Excellence in Research Award

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Mrs. Sarra Maamri | Herbal Medicine | Excellence in Research Award

Teacher Researcher at Boumerdes university | Algeria

Mrs. Sarra Maamri is an accomplished Associate Professor in the field of biology, with specialization in biochemistry, applied microbiology, herbal medicine, and ethnobotany. Her academic journey reflects a consistent dedication to exploring the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants while integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches. She has published in several international, peer-reviewed, and indexed journals, contributing to advances in enzyme inhibition, drug discovery, and sustainable biotechnology. Her work also extends to anaerobic digestion and biogas production, highlighting her interest in environmentally sustainable practices. Through her teaching, research, and academic service, she has established herself as a committed educator and researcher who bridges the gap between fundamental science and its application to human health and ecological sustainability. Her contributions stand at the intersection of traditional medicine, bioorganic chemistry, and applied microbiology, ensuring relevance both in scientific communities and real-world applications.

Professional Profile 

Education

Mrs. Sarra Maamri pursued her education in the field of biology and biochemistry, culminating in a doctorate in biochemistry and applied microbiology. Prior to this, she obtained both postgraduate and undergraduate degrees in biology, reflecting her long-standing academic interest in life sciences. Additionally, she holds a habilitation certificate, signifying advanced academic recognition and the ability to supervise doctoral-level research. Her academic training has provided her with a multidisciplinary foundation, spanning molecular biology, enzymology, bioorganic chemistry, and bioinformatics, which she effectively integrates into her research and teaching. The progression of her studies highlights both depth and breadth, with a clear emphasis on developing expertise in applied biological sciences that connect fundamental research to practical applications. This educational background has equipped her with the skills necessary to investigate plant-derived compounds, explore microbial processes, and contribute meaningfully to the fields of ethnobotany, herbal medicine, and environmental biotechnology.

Professional Experience

Mrs. Sarra Maamri has built extensive experience in teaching, research, and academic service. She teaches courses in enzymology and bioinformatics, where she emphasizes the integration of theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Her academic responsibilities also include mentoring students and participating in the scientific committees of conferences, thereby fostering the development of young researchers. Beyond teaching, she has conducted research that spans diverse areas such as ethnobotany, herbal medicine, enzyme inhibition, and anaerobic digestion for renewable energy production. Her professional involvement in laboratories and academic committees underlines her collaborative approach to advancing scientific inquiry. She has also contributed as a committee member in international scientific events, which reflects her active engagement with the global scientific community. Collectively, her professional experiences portray her as a versatile academic who balances teaching excellence, impactful research, and service to the advancement of her institution and discipline.

Research Interests

Mrs. Sarra Maamri research interests lie primarily at the intersection of medicinal plant research, bioorganic chemistry, and applied microbiology. She is particularly focused on herbal medicine and ethnobotany, where she works to scientifically validate the therapeutic potential of traditional plant-based treatments. Her studies explore antidiabetic, antileishmanial, and anti-osteoporosis properties of various plant extracts, with an aim to identify bioactive compounds that may lead to novel therapies. Additionally, she has conducted research in anaerobic digestion, evaluating the efficiency of biogas production from waste materials, which aligns with her commitment to environmental sustainability. She is also interested in enzyme inhibition studies, especially as they relate to potential drug development. Her interdisciplinary interests highlight a dual focus: improving human health through plant-based drug discovery and contributing to ecological sustainability through innovative biotechnological practices, making her research both scientifically rigorous and socially relevant.

Research Skills

Mrs. Sarra Maamri possesses a diverse range of research skills spanning both laboratory-based and analytical approaches. She is adept at phytochemical analysis and bioactivity assessment, particularly in the identification and characterization of plant-derived compounds with potential medicinal applications. Her skills extend to molecular docking, ADMET prediction, and bioinformatics techniques, enabling her to investigate molecular mechanisms and drug-like properties of natural compounds. Additionally, she has expertise in enzymology and microbial processes, which she applies to both medicinal plant studies and biogas production research. She is experienced in conducting ethnobotanical surveys, data analysis, and comparative studies across different cultural contexts. Her research also includes proficiency in experimental design, scientific writing, and peer-reviewed publication. Together, these competencies reflect her capacity to conduct high-quality, interdisciplinary research that combines traditional knowledge with modern experimental and computational tools, advancing discoveries in both plant-based medicine and sustainable biotechnological practices.

Awards and Honors

Mrs. Sarra Maamri has received recognition for her contributions to science and academia through academic promotions, scientific committee appointments, and peer-reviewed publications. Her appointment as an Associate Professor is itself a recognition of her teaching and research excellence. She has served on the scientific committees of international events such as Bioinformatics Day and the International Conference on Bioresources Valorization, underscoring her role as a trusted academic voice in her field. Her scholarly contributions have also been acknowledged through citations and inclusion in reputable journals indexed in SCI and Scopus, which highlight the impact of her work on the wider scientific community. These honors illustrate her growing reputation as a researcher who contributes significantly to ethnobotany, herbal medicine, and sustainable biotechnology. Her consistent presence in scientific dialogues, combined with her publication record, reflects her standing as a respected academic and researcher in her discipline.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Phenolic extracts from various Algerian plants as strong inhibitors of porcine liver carboxylesterase
    Year: 2006
    Citation: 94

  • Title: Biogas production from waste activated sludge using cattle dung inoculums: Effect of total solid contents and kinetics study
    Year: 2014
    Citation: 77

  • Title: Identification of 3-Methoxycarpachromene and Masticadienonic Acid as New Target Inhibitors against Trypanothione Reductase from Leishmania infantum Using Molecular Docking and ADMET Prediction
    Year: 2021
    Citation: 14

  • Title: Etude de Pistacia atlantica de deux régions de sud algérien: dosage des lipides, dosage des polyphénols, essais antileishmaniens
    Year: 2008
    Citation: 13

  • Title: Evaluation and modelling of methane yield efficiency from co-digestion of waste activated sludge and olive mill wastewater
    Year: 2019
    Citation: 7

Conclusion

Mrs. Sarra Maamri stands out as a dedicated researcher whose contributions merge traditional plant knowledge with modern scientific rigor. Her publications reflect innovation in ethnobotany and sustainable biotechnology, making her a valuable contributor to both healthcare and environmental fields. While future growth could focus on internationalization and applied research outputs, her current achievements demonstrate clear excellence in research, making her a highly suitable nominee for the Excellence in Research Award.

Samuel Umma | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Samuel Umma | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Federal University Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria

Dr. Samuel Bem Umma is a dedicated researcher and academician in the field of Fisheries and Aquaculture with over a decade of experience in teaching, research, and academic service. Based at the Federal University Wukari, Nigeria, he has made substantial contributions to sustainable aquaculture through studies on fish nutrition, microbial feed additives, aquatic toxicology, and fish health. His research promotes alternatives to synthetic antibiotics, particularly using bioactive compounds from Escherichia coli and indigenous plants. With over 20 published research papers, several conference presentations, and a book chapter with Springer, Dr. Umma exemplifies interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. His teaching portfolio spans multiple courses across undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and he actively contributes to curriculum development and departmental responsibilities. Committed to advancing fisheries science in Africa, he is affiliated with major professional bodies such as the World Aquaculture Society and the Fisheries Society of Nigeria. Dr. Umma continues to champion sustainable aquaculture practices and environmental resilience.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Samuel Bem Umma holds a strong academic background in Fisheries and Aquaculture. He obtained his Bachelor of Fisheries (B.Fisheries) in 2010 from the University of Maiduguri, Nigeria. He pursued further specialization by completing his Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Fisheries and Aquaculture at the University of Ibadan in 2013. Recently, in 2024, he earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in the same field from the University of Ibadan, one of Nigeria’s leading institutions. His academic journey is marked by a consistent focus on aquatic ecosystems, sustainable aquaculture systems, and fish nutrition, forming the theoretical and practical foundation of his current research pursuits. This educational progression reflects both his academic commitment and long-term investment in enhancing aquaculture research and practice in Nigeria and beyond. His education has equipped him with a multidisciplinary understanding of aquatic health, nutrition, toxicology, and biotechnology—all of which are central to his professional and research work.

Professional Experience

Dr. Umma began his academic career in 2015 as a Lecturer at the Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Federal University Wukari, Taraba State, Nigeria. Over the past decade, he has taught more than 20 specialized courses, including Fish Nutrition, Limnology, Aquatic Toxicology, Fish Genetics, Fish Biochemistry, and Advanced Aquaculture. He has served in multiple administrative roles such as Acting Head of Department, Departmental Examination Officer, SIWES Coordinator, and Secretary of the Postgraduate Committee. He has actively participated in departmental curriculum review, project guideline development, and student advising across all academic levels. His contributions extend to the organization of departmental resources, faculty IGR initiatives, and quality assurance in teaching and learning. Beyond classroom instruction, Dr. Umma’s hands-on involvement in research and academic leadership demonstrates a well-rounded professional commitment to both education and fisheries research, which is essential for capacity building in Nigerian aquaculture and higher education.

Research Interests

Dr. Umma’s research interests lie primarily in fish health and nutrition, aquatic toxicology, microbial biotechnology, and phytogenic feed additives. His work is at the intersection of sustainability, biotechnology, and aquaculture, with a focus on reducing antibiotic use in fish farming through natural alternatives. He explores the use of bioactive metabolite extracts from non-pathogenic Escherichia coli and plant-based compounds such as Heinsia crinita to improve fish immunity, growth, and environmental safety. His studies often incorporate water quality analysis, heavy metal bioaccumulation, and the impact of feed formulations on fish physiology. Furthermore, he is interested in optimizing aquaculture systems for rural and commercial fisheries in West Africa. His research aligns with global efforts toward sustainable food systems, addressing both productivity and environmental protection. He also contributes to understanding fish population dynamics, hatchery techniques, and post-harvest preservation—all vital for improving aquaculture output and food security in developing regions.

Research Skills

Dr. Umma possesses a diverse array of research skills that span aquatic sampling, nutrient analysis, microbial screening, toxicological assays, and fish growth performance trials. He is proficient in designing and conducting controlled feeding experiments using plant-based and microbial supplements, evaluating fish health via haematological and biochemical assays. His technical abilities include zooplankton biomass estimation, bioaccumulation studies of heavy metals, and water quality assessments under varying ecological conditions. He is experienced in formulating experimental fish diets and measuring feed conversion efficiency, survival rates, and immune responses. Dr. Umma also has advanced capabilities in data analysis using statistical software, scholarly writing, and scientific communication. His recent collaborative studies show his strength in interdisciplinary research, combining aquaculture with microbial biotechnology and pharmacology. He is adept at publishing in peer-reviewed journals and preparing research findings for conference presentations. These competencies position him as a capable and evolving researcher in sustainable fisheries science.

Awards and Honors

While Dr. Samuel Bem Umma has not yet received major international research awards, his growing academic record and recent Ph.D. conferment in 2024 mark significant milestones in his career. His selection as a speaker and presenter at national and regional conferences, such as the World Aquaculture Society (African Chapter), Aquaculture Ghana, and National Biotechnology Research Conference, reflects peer recognition of his work in sustainable aquaculture. He has also contributed a book chapter published by Springer—a notable academic achievement that demonstrates international engagement. Additionally, his research on plant-based diets and microbial metabolites in fish farming is gaining scholarly attention, as indicated by recent publications in indexed journals and a patent under process. As a member of professional bodies like FISON, ANIFS, and WAS, he is recognized within his field and continues to build his academic visibility and leadership. These achievements collectively position him as an emerging scholar of promise in fisheries research.

Conclusion

Dr. Samuel Bem Umma demonstrates solid credentials and emerging excellence in fisheries and aquaculture research. His work is particularly impactful in sustainable fish production and microbial therapeutics — areas of critical importance to food security and environmental sustainability. While certain metrics such as citation impact and international funding could be improved, his interdisciplinary innovation, growing publication record, and commitment to academic development make him a suitable and promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Noted

  • Adeshina I., Sani R.A., Adewale Y.A., Tiamiyu L.O., Umma S.B. (2018)
    Effects of dietary Moringa oleifera leaf meal as a replacement for soybean meal on growth, body composition and health status in Cyprinus carpio juveniles
    Croatian Journal of Fisheries 76(4), 174–182 – Cited by: 39

  • Umma S.B., Iyiola A.O., Adeshina I. (2023)
    Relationship pattern of enteric bacterial load and assessed micronutrients in the gut of Clarias gariepinus fish sampled in the Ibadan municipal zone
    Journal of Basic and Applied Zoology 84(1):23 – Cited by: 5

  • Adeshina I., Umma S.B., Adesanmi O., Adewale Y.A. (2016)
    Distribution of bacteria load in fish tissues, pond water and sediment in Oyo State, Nigeria – Cited by: 2

  • Olukunle O., Umma S.B. (2016)
    Evaluation of African Catfish Clarias gariepinus Responses to Graded Levels of Zinc Practical Diet
    African Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management 1, 90 – Cited by: 2

  • Paray B.A., Adeshina I., Bhat E.A., Raji A., Umma S.B., Alliy R.O., Tiamiyu L.O. (2024)
    Effect of dietary Lagnaria breviflora leaves extract on African catfish juveniles
    J. Anim. Physiol. Anim. Nutr. 108(4):1164–1175 – Cited by: 1

  • Tyokumbur E.T., Umma S.B. (2017)
    Assessment of Heavy Metal Bioaccumulation in Wild Fish
    American Journal of Agricultural Science 4(2):23–28 – Cited by: 1

  • Tyokumbur E.T., Umma S.B. (2017)
    Sarotherodon melanotheron from Alaro Stream in Ibadan, Nigeria
    American Journal of Agricultural Science 4(6):120–125 – Cited by: 1

  • Ogunremi J.B., Sadiq H.O., Umma S.B., Oshimagye M.I. (2016)
    Perception on acceptability of extension agents among rural fish farmers
    Nigerian Journal of Fisheries and Aquaculture 4(1):59–62 – Cited by: 1

  • Umma S.B., Agbeja Y.E., Iyiola A.O. (2025)
    Sustainable Extraction and Production of Raw Materials for Bio-based Products in the Global South
    Book Chapter – Springer

  • Iyiola A.O., Kolawole A.S., Umma S.B., Iriobe T. (2024)
    Length-weight relationship of Oreochromis niloticus and Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus
    Aceh Journal of Animal Science 9(2):53–59

  • Umma S.B., Agbeja Y.E., Oyebola O.O., Ametefe G.D. (2024)
    Growth optimization and metabolite yield of non-pathogenic Escherichia coli from African catfish gut
    Tropical Journal of Pharmaceutical Research 23(12):2079–2087

  • Umma S.B., Ujah S., Gani B., Agu R.Z. (2023)
    Bacteriological diversity of organs of three fish species from Nigerian rivers
    Nigerian Journal of Fisheries 20(1)

  • Umma S.B., Adeshina I., Samuel S., Poirmozaffar S. (2025)
    Growth and gut bactericidal potential of Heinsia cinita-based diet in Nile Tilapia
    Scientifica

  • Adeshina I., Bhat E.A., Fawole O.O., Paray B.A., Umma S.B., Tiamiyu L.O. (2025)
    Herbal leaves mixture extract improves growth and Gyrodactylus resistance in hybrid catfish
    Aquaculture Nutrition

  • Umma S.B., Adeshina I. (2012)
    Zooplankton production and biomass estimates in Maiduguri, Nigeria
    Int. J. of Science and Development Studies

  • Bem U.S., Omoniyi D.A., Ibagye O.M., Flourizel I., Mamndeyati U.N., Kida D.A.
    Clarias gariepinus production study

  • Iyiola A.O., Umma S.B.
    Overview of triploid fish production processes for aquaculture

  • Tyokumbur E.T., Okorie T.G., Umma B.S.
    Appraisal of heavy and trace metals in sediments and fish

  • Tyokumbur E.T., Okorie T.G., Umma B.S.
    Bioaccumulation of metals in Clarias lazera and Tilapia zilli

  • Tyokumbur E.T., Okorie T., Umma B.
    Trace metal concentration in organs of Heterotis niloticus

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