Bhaskar Das | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Bhaskar Das | Phytochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Project Scientist at BRIC-Institute of Bioresources & Sustainable Development, India

Dr. Bhaskar Das is a highly accomplished pharmaceutical researcher currently serving as Project Scientist-II at the BRIC-Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (BRIC-IBSD), Department of Biotechnology, Government of India. He holds a Ph.D. in Pharmacy from Jadavpur University with research focused on identifying plant-based inhibitors for Alzheimer’s disease. His expertise spans natural product research, bioactive compound isolation, neuropharmacology, metabolite profiling, and network pharmacology. With over 17 publications in reputed journals, 2 book chapters, and a citation index reflecting significant academic impact (h-index: 7), Dr. Das has also contributed as a reviewer for leading scientific journals. He has received national and international exposure, including a research stint in South Africa. His work integrates ethnopharmacology, pharmacognosy, and bioresource sustainability, aiming to validate traditional medicines through modern scientific approaches. Dr. Das’s multidisciplinary knowledge, robust research portfolio, and dedication to translational medicine make him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Dr. Bhaskar Das has pursued a strong academic path in pharmaceutical sciences, marked by consistent excellence and specialization. He earned his Ph.D. in Pharmacy from Jadavpur University, Kolkata, where his research focused on the development of natural inhibitors against Alzheimer’s disease using plant-based bioactives. Prior to his doctoral studies, he completed his Master of Pharmacy (M.Pharm) in Pharmacognosy from Biju Patnaik University of Technology, Odisha, achieving a deep understanding of medicinal plants and phytochemistry. His undergraduate studies culminated in a Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) degree from the same university, laying the foundation for his future research in drug discovery and natural product chemistry. Throughout his academic journey, Dr. Das has been recognized for his scholarly dedication, blending traditional knowledge with modern pharmaceutical techniques. His education has equipped him with interdisciplinary expertise in pharmacognosy, neuropharmacology, and metabolite profiling, forming the basis for his impactful research in the field of bioresources and drug development.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Bhaskar Das has garnered extensive professional experience in the field of pharmaceutical sciences and bioresources, with a strong focus on natural product-based drug discovery. He is currently serving as Scientist-C at the Biological Database and Bioinformatics Division of the Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development (IBSD), Mizoram Centre, under the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India. In this role, he is engaged in multidisciplinary research involving phytochemistry, pharmacognosy, and the development of herbal formulations targeting neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer’s. Dr. Das has contributed significantly to the establishment of metabolomic platforms, standardization of herbal products, and the integration of traditional medicinal knowledge with modern scientific tools. His work also involves coordinating research projects, mentoring students, and publishing high-impact scientific papers. With his expertise, he plays a vital role in promoting the sustainable use of Northeast India’s rich biodiversity for therapeutic purposes, making meaningful contributions to national and international research collaborations.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Bhaskar Das’s research interests lie at the intersection of natural product chemistry, pharmacognosy, and neuropharmacology, with a strong emphasis on drug discovery from traditional medicinal plants. He is particularly focused on the exploration of bioactive compounds from medicinal and aromatic plants of Northeast India, aiming to identify potential therapeutic agents for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. His work involves bioassay-guided fractionation, metabolomics, and phytochemical profiling to understand the mechanism of action and efficacy of herbal formulations. Dr. Das is also interested in the standardization and quality control of herbal medicines, combining modern analytical tools with traditional knowledge to ensure scientific validation. Additionally, he is engaged in bioprospecting and the conservation of bioresources, integrating bioinformatics and biological databases to support drug development pipelines. Through his interdisciplinary approach, Dr. Das contributes to bridging traditional ethnomedicine and modern pharmacology, advancing sustainable healthcare solutions rooted in biodiversity.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Bhaskar Das possesses a diverse and robust set of research skills that span across natural product chemistry, phytopharmacology, and analytical techniques. He is proficient in the extraction, isolation, and characterization of bioactive compounds from medicinal plants using advanced chromatographic and spectroscopic methods such as HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS, and NMR. His expertise extends to conducting in vitro and in vivo pharmacological evaluations, particularly related to neuroprotective and antioxidant activities. Dr. Das is skilled in the use of metabolomics and chemoinformatics tools for profiling complex plant extracts and elucidating metabolic pathways. He also demonstrates competency in statistical analysis and experimental design, ensuring the scientific rigor of his research outcomes. Moreover, he has experience managing interdisciplinary research projects, mentoring young scientists, and collaborating with national and international research groups. His technical acumen, combined with his deep knowledge of traditional medicine, makes him a valuable contributor to drug discovery and ethnopharmacological research.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Bhaskar Das has been the recipient of several prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to pharmaceutical and natural product research. He has been awarded the Young Scientist Award by reputed scientific bodies for his innovative work in ethnopharmacology and phytochemistry. His research excellence has also earned him Best Paper Awards at multiple national and international conferences. Dr. Das has been recognized by the Indian Pharmacological Society and other academic forums for his impactful presentations and scholarly achievements. Additionally, he has received research fellowships and grants from renowned organizations such as the University Grants Commission (UGC) and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), which have supported his advanced studies and research initiatives. His consistent academic performance, significant publication record, and contributions to interdisciplinary research have positioned him as a respected and promising scientist within the pharmaceutical sciences and natural product research community.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Bhaskar Das demonstrates a well-rounded, dynamic, and impactful research profile in the fields of ethnopharmacology, pharmaceutical sciences, and bioactive natural product discovery. His academic rigor, publication record, international exposure, and methodological versatility make him a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. He exemplifies an early-to-mid-career researcher with clear upward momentum and valuable contributions to traditional medicine, phytopharmacology, and drug discovery research. With targeted improvements in global visibility, translational outcomes, and leadership roles, Dr. Das is poised to become a major figure in his domain.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Ghosh, S., Das, B., Jana, S., Singh, K. O., Sharma, N., Mukherjee, P. K., & Haldar, P. K. (2025).

  • Title: Mechanistic insight into neuroprotective effect of standardized ginger chemo varieties from Manipur, India in scopolamine induced learning and memory impaired mice.

  • Journal: Metabolic Brain Disease.

  • Date: January 15, 2025.

  • DOI: 10.1007/s11011-025-01535-8

Mariam Oyedeji Amusa | Botanical Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa | Botanical Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Fellow at University of Johannesburg, South Africa

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg and a part-time Senior Lecturer at Kampala International University. With a Ph.D. in Botany and Plant Biotechnology, and prior degrees in Pharmacognosy and Plant Science, her research focuses on ethnobotany, phytochemistry, molecular taxonomy, and plant-based drug discovery. She has authored over 18 journal articles, contributed to scholarly books, and actively collaborates with international researchers across Africa, Europe, and Asia. Dr. Amusa has led and facilitated numerous workshops on systematic reviews and meta-analysis, mentored postgraduate students, and contributed to capacity building in African scientific communities. Her work addresses critical global challenges such as antimicrobial resistance, using indigenous knowledge and modern biotechnology. She is a member of professional bodies including the South African Association of Botanists and SACNASP. Her contributions exemplify academic excellence, scientific leadership, and a commitment to sustainable health solutions through plant-based innovations.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa holds a Ph.D. in Botany and Plant Biotechnology from the University of Johannesburg, South Africa, where she conducted a multidisciplinary study on the Meliaceae family, integrating systematics, anatomy, and antimicrobial research. She also earned a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Pharmacognosy from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, with a thesis focused on the antimicrobial properties of Nauclea latifolia. Her foundational academic training includes a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Plant Science from the University of Ilorin, where she studied seed germination and growth variability in cowpea varieties. Her educational background reflects a strong and progressive focus on plant biology, medicinal botany, and natural product research. Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Amusa has developed expertise in diverse areas such as ethnobotany, phytomedicine, molecular biology, and plant taxonomy, forming a solid foundation for her current research in metabolomics, nanotechnology, and drug discovery from natural sources.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa has amassed diverse professional experience across research, teaching, and scientific capacity building. Currently, she serves as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg, where she conducts advanced studies in plant metabolomics, antimicrobial activities, and systematic reviews. She also holds a part-time position as a Senior Lecturer at Kampala International University, teaching courses such as biostatistics, microbiology, and genetics. Previously, she lectured at the Pan African University and tutored at the University of Johannesburg, where she also mentored postgraduate and undergraduate students, supervised fieldwork, and coordinated practical sessions. Dr. Amusa has contributed to academic development through her roles as a facilitator of workshops on systematic reviews and meta-analysis across Africa. Her early career included work as a Development Knowledge Facilitator during Nigeria’s National Youth Service Corps, where she trained over 400 graduates in entrepreneurship skills. Her experience reflects a strong commitment to research, education, and scientific empowerment.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa’s research interests center on the discovery of plant-based solutions to global health challenges, with a strong emphasis on natural product research, ethnobotany, and biotechnology. Her work focuses on the therapeutic potential of indigenous medicinal plants, particularly in addressing antimicrobial resistance and promoting sustainable health practices. She has a keen interest in nanotechnology, metabolomics, and drug discovery, exploring the biochemical and pharmacological properties of plant secondary metabolites. Dr. Amusa also engages deeply in molecular taxonomy, using genetic and anatomical approaches to understand plant diversity and systematics, particularly in African flora. An advocate for evidence-based practice, she is actively involved in systematic reviews and meta-analyses, employing tools such as RevMan and Rayyan for research synthesis. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges traditional knowledge with modern scientific techniques, aiming to validate and harness the medicinal value of plants. Her ultimate goal is to contribute to integrative and accessible healthcare innovations from natural origins.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa possesses a robust set of research skills that span both laboratory and analytical domains, enabling her to conduct high-impact interdisciplinary studies in plant science and pharmacognosy. She is proficient in phytochemical analysis, antimicrobial assays, and toxicity evaluations, which she applies to investigate the medicinal potential of indigenous plants. Her expertise in molecular systematics and taxonomy is supported by advanced techniques in microscopy (LM and SEM) and DNA-based analysis. Dr. Amusa is also highly skilled in plant metabolomics and bioinformatics, using tools such as QGIS, Excel, and GraphPad Prism for data visualization and statistical analysis. She is an experienced facilitator of systematic reviews and meta-analyses, with strong command over research synthesis platforms like Rayyan and RevMan. Additionally, her mentoring and supervision of postgraduate students reflect her ability to guide complex research projects. Her integrative skillset positions her as a versatile researcher capable of bridging traditional knowledge with modern science.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Mariam Oyedeji Amusa has earned recognition for her outstanding contributions to botanical research and capacity building in African science communities. While specific awards are not extensively listed in her profile, her selection as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Johannesburg itself reflects academic merit and research excellence. She has also served as a facilitator for research capacity development workshops, which underscores her leadership in scientific training and mentorship. Her role as a part-time Senior Lecturer at Kampala International University and past lecturer at Pan African University highlights her continued recognition as a trusted academic in plant science and pharmacognosy. Furthermore, her consistent collaboration with researchers across continents, as well as invitations to contribute to edited scientific volumes, demonstrates the respect she commands in her field. Dr. Amusa’s growing citation metrics, international visibility, and involvement in consultancy projects all reflect professional acknowledgment of her work and emerging global influence.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Mariam Oyefunke Oyedeji Amusa is a strong and promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award, especially considering her interdisciplinary research excellence, global collaborations, and commitment to mentorship and research dissemination across Africa. While there is room for growth in innovation-based outputs and editorial leadership, her profile aligns well with the award’s mission to recognize impactful, globally relevant research in botany and related sciences.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Inclusion of nutritional counseling and mental health services in HIV/AIDS management: A paradigm shift
    EU Alum, EI Obeagu, OPC Ugwu, AO Samson, AO Adepoju, MO Amusa
    2023205 citations

  • Effect of Ethanol leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata on lipid profile of streptozotocin induced diabetic wistar albino rats
    OPC Ugwu, EU Alum, EI Obeagu, MB Okon, PM Aja, AO Samson, MO Amusa
    202346 citations

  • Effect of Ethanol Leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata on hepatic markers in streptozotocin-induced diabetic wistar albino rats
    OPC Ugwu, EI Obeagu, EU Alum, MB Okon, PM Aja, MO Amusa
    202327 citations

  • Synthesis and computational investigation of N, N-dimethyl-4-[(Z)-(phenylimino) methyl] aniline derivatives: Biological and quantitative structural activity relationship studies
    I Waziri, MT Kelani, MO Oyedeji-Amusa, AK Oyebamiji, LCC Coetzee, et al.
    202322 citations

  • Medicinal properties of whole fruit extracts of Nauclea latifolia Smith.: Antimicrobial, antioxidant and hypoglycemic assessments
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, AOT Ashafa
    201922 citations

  • The ethnobotany and chemistry of South African Meliaceae: a review
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, NJ Sadgrove, BE Van Wyk
    202121 citations

  • Antimicrobial activity and toxicity of extracts from the bark and leaves of South African indigenous Meliaceae against selected pathogens
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, S Van Vuuren
    202020 citations

  • Exploring natural plant products in breast cancer management: A comprehensive review and future prospects
    EU Alum, EI Obeagu, OPC Ugwu, OU Orji, AO Adepoju, MO Amusa, et al.
    202312 citations

  • Wood anatomy of South African Meliaceae: evolutionary and ecological implications
    MO Oyedeji Amusa, BE Van Wyk, A Oskolski
    202011 citations

  • Ethnoveterinary survey of tradomedical importance of Bos taurus L urine, bile and dung in Nigeria and South Africa
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, OT Ojuromi, AO Ashafa
    201610 citations

  • Effect of Ethanol leaf extract of Chromolaena odorata on lipid profile…
    MO Amusa, AOA, OPC Ugwu
    202310 citations

  • Efficacy and safety of Mazdutide on weight loss among diabetic and non-diabetic patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
    DL Nalisa, N Cuboia, E Dyab, IL Jackson, HJ Felix, P Shoki, M Mubiana, et al.
    20249 citations

  • A taxonomic review of South African indigenous Meliaceae using molecular systematics and anatomical data
    MO Oyedeji Amusa, RD Stewart, M van der Bank, BE van Wyk
    20245 citations

  • Medicinal plants used in the treatment of Typhoid fever in Nigeria: A Systematic Review
    M Oyedeji-Amusa, N Cuboia, K Olofinsan
    20244 citations

  • Comparative investigation of derivatives of (E)-N-((E)-3-phenylallylidene) aniline: Synthesis, structural characterization, biological evaluation, density functional theory …
    I Waziri, MT Kelani, MO Oyedeji-Amusa, AK Oyebamiji, LCC Coetzee, et al.
    20244 citations

  • Ethnomedicinal importance and antimicrobial activity of Leonotis ocymifolia
    MO Oyedeji-Amusa, SF Van Vuuren, RD Rattray, BE Van Wyk
    20243 citations

  • Ethnopharmacological survey on medicinal plants utilization in Freetown, Sierra Leone
    A Adepoju, MO Oyedeji-Amusa, O Awotunde, O Ugwu
    20232 citations

  • Dietary nutrients, antinutritional factors, and valorization of food waste
    AJ Olaseni, M Moses, OA Mariam, SS Oyefunke
    20201 citation

  • Adoption of Climate Change Adaptation Strategies and Household Food Security of Smallholder Poultry Farmers in Lagos and Ogun states, Nigeria
    SA Abanigbe, P Orowole, MS Ngidi, M Yusuf-Oshoala, TO Ojo, et al.
    2024