Sara Ouari | Ethnomedicine | Young Researcher Award

Ms. Sara Ouari | Ethnomedicine | Young Researcher Award

PhD Student at Setif 1 University Ferhat Abbes, Algeria

Ms. Sara Ouari is a dedicated third-year PhD student at Setif 1 University Ferhat Abbes, Algeria, specializing in biochemistry with a research focus on the anti-inflammatory effects of medicinal plants. Her academic journey is marked by high academic achievement and hands-on training in advanced molecular biology techniques through internships in Algeria and Italy. She has published two peer-reviewed articles in prestigious journals—Journal of Ethnopharmacology and Naunyn-Schmiedeberg’s Archives of Pharmacology—and actively participates in national and international conferences. Her research is part of a government-funded project (PRFU) and involves in vitro and in vivo studies to investigate the pharmacological mechanisms of Inula viscosa. Sara is also collaborating with international institutions, including the University of Messina and the University of West Attica. With a solid foundation in research, international exposure, and a clear focus on phytotherapy, Ms. Ouari shows significant promise as a young scientist in the fields of immunology and molecular pharmacology.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Ms. Sara Ouari has pursued a strong academic path in the field of biochemistry and life sciences. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from Abderrahmane Mira University of Bejaia in 2019 with a commendable grade of 16.09, followed by a Master’s degree in Biochemistry and Biology in 2021 from the same institution, graduating with distinction (final grade: 17.70). Her master’s thesis focused on the epidemiological and immunohistochemical study of breast cancer in young Algerian patients. Currently, she is a PhD student at Setif 1 University Ferhat Abbes, where she is conducting research on the anti-inflammatory properties of medicinal plants. Alongside her formal degrees, Sara has enriched her academic experience with several certifications, including training in animal experimentation (Pasteur Institute of Algeria), statistics with R (University of Paris-Saclay), cancer diagnostics, and clinical biology. Her educational background reflects both academic excellence and a strong commitment to interdisciplinary learning and research development.

Professional Experience 💼

Ms. Sara Ouari has gained diverse and valuable professional experience in both academic and clinical research environments. She has served as a part-time teacher at Abderrahmane Mira University of Bejaia and University of Setif 1, delivering practical and directed work sessions in cellular biology, genetics, immunological engineering, biochemistry, and animal biology. Her hands-on laboratory experience includes internships at the Plant Biotechnology and Ethnobotany Laboratory and the Cancer Biological Engineering Laboratory in Bejaia, where she conducted molecular biology and biochemical tests. Currently, she is interning at the Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (Navarra’s Lab) at the University of Messina, Italy, focusing on cell culture, PCR, and flow cytometry. She has also undergone clinical training in oncology, histopathological analysis, and central medical laboratory diagnostics in various hospital settings. This blend of teaching, laboratory research, and clinical exposure highlights her practical expertise and commitment to advancing biomedical and pharmacological research through applied science.

Research Interest 🔬

Ms. Sara Ouari’s research interests lie at the intersection of biochemistry, immunology, molecular biology, and phytotherapy. She is particularly focused on exploring the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants, with an emphasis on their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Her PhD research investigates the pharmacological mechanisms of Inula viscosa through in vitro and in vivo models, aiming to identify bioactive compounds and their molecular pathways involved in inflammation control. She is also interested in the histological and immunohistochemical analysis of disease models, bridging traditional plant-based medicine with modern biomedical research. Her scientific curiosity extends to cancer biology, especially in understanding the molecular and immunohistochemical profiles of breast cancer in young patients. Sara actively participates in interdisciplinary collaborations, integrating molecular techniques such as PCR, flow cytometry, and biochemical assays into her work. Her long-term goal is to contribute to the development of plant-derived therapeutic agents and improve diagnostic strategies in chronic and inflammatory diseases.

Research Skill🔎

Ms. Sara Ouari possesses a strong and well-rounded set of research skills in the fields of molecular biology, biochemistry, and pharmacology. She is proficient in a variety of laboratory techniques, including PCR, DNA extraction, electrophoresis, cell culture, and flow cytometry, which she has applied in both clinical and academic research settings. Her experience with in vivo experimentation and histopathological analysis demonstrates her competence in handling animal models and evaluating tissue responses, particularly in studies involving inflammation and cancer. Sara is also skilled in immunohistochemical staining and biochemical assays, essential for understanding molecular mechanisms of disease and therapeutic effects. She has strong data analysis capabilities using software like SPSS and GraphPad, and she has completed training in statistical analysis with R. Additionally, her ability to design and execute complex experiments, interpret scientific data, and present findings in peer-reviewed journals and international conferences reflects her growing expertise and promise as a biomedical researcher.

Award and Honor🏆

Ms. Sara Ouari, though early in her scientific career, has begun to earn recognition for her promising contributions to biomedical and phytotherapy research. She is a nominee for the prestigious Young Scientist Award, reflecting her active engagement in innovative research and international collaboration. Her academic excellence has been consistently evident throughout her studies, graduating with distinction at both the bachelor’s and master’s levels. She has successfully published her research in reputable international journals such as Journal of Ethnopharmacology (Elsevier) and Naunyn-Schmiedeberg’s Archives of Pharmacology (Springer), a notable achievement for a doctoral student. Moreover, she has presented her work at numerous national and international scientific conferences across Algeria, Italy, and Türkiye, showcasing her commitment to scientific dissemination and networking. Sara’s research has also been selected for support under the PRFU program by the Algerian Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, affirming the national value and relevance of her doctoral work.

Conclusion📝

Sara Ouari demonstrates strong potential and merit as a young researcher. Her academic foundation, publication record, international collaborations, and dedication to ethnopharmacological research position her as a worthy candidate for the Young Researcher Award. While she is still in the early stages of her career, her trajectory suggests promise, particularly if she broadens her research scope and deepens engagement with the scientific and professional community.

✅ Recommended for Young Researcher Award with encouragement to continue building a robust and diversified academic profile.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Chemical composition, biological activities, and molecular mechanism of Inula viscosa (L.) bioactive compounds: a review
    S. Ouari, N. Benzidane
    Naunyn-Schmiedeberg’s Archives of Pharmacology, Vol. 397(6), pp. 3857–3865
    Year: 2024
    Cited by: 6

  • Histological and Immunohistochemical study of Anti-Inflammatory effect of Inula viscosa (L.) Aiton Leaf Extract in Formaldehyde-induced arthritis in Mice
    S. Ouari, N. Benzidane, C. Bencharif, N. Bribi
    MDPI Biomedicines (ECB2025 Conference)
    Year: 2025

  • Inula viscosa (L.) Aiton leaves extract ameliorate arthritis by antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects in formaldehyde-induced arthritis in mice
    S. Ouari, N. Benzidane, M.S. Merakeb, C. Bencharif, L. Arrar, N. Bribi
    Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Vol. 339, Article 119154
    Year: 2025

  • Epidemiological, Immunohistochemical, and Molecular Study of Breast Cancer in Young Algerian Patients from “Bejaia”
    C.B.C.M. Sara Ouari, Hania Ouahmed-Boudaoud
    International Conference on Engineering, Natural Sciences, and Technological Developments (ICENSTED)
    Year: 2024

  • Epidemiological, Immunohistochemical, and Molecular Study of Breast Cancer in Young Algerian Patients from “Bejaia”
    S. Ouari, H. Ouahmed-Boudaoud, C. Bencharif, C. Mazouzi
    Conference Proceedings
    Year: 2024

Li Guan | Botanical Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

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)