Prof. Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani | Food Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Tarbiat Modares University | Iran

Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani began her academic journey in Chemical Engineering with a focus on Food Technology at the University of Tehran. Her passion for applying engineering principles to food systems led her to pursue graduate studies in Food Science and Technology at Tarbiat Modares University. Building on her interdisciplinary foundation, she completed a doctorate in Chemical Engineering with specialization in Biotechnology, equipping her with a robust scientific background essential for innovation in food biotechnology and processing.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Hamidi-Esfahani has advanced through various academic ranks at Tarbiat Modares University, from instructor to full professor. Her consistent professional growth reflects her dedication to teaching, research, and leadership within the academic community. She has also contributed significantly as a referee for a wide range of scientific journals, both nationally and internationally, reflecting her reputation and expertise in the field.

Contributions and Research Focus

Her research focus lies at the intersection of biotechnology and food engineering. She has made substantial contributions in areas such as solid-state fermentation, microbial enzyme production, development of probiotic foods, and the use of novel technologies in food processing. She has worked extensively on the valorization of agro-industrial waste, especially date seeds, for the production of prebiotics and other functional food components. Her work also encompasses the development of active food packaging systems and co-encapsulation technologies for probiotics and plant extracts.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Hamidi-Esfahani’s work has had a tangible impact on food biotechnology and sustainable food systems. Her contributions to solid-state fermentation and microbial production processes have direct industrial applications, particularly in enzyme production and functional food development. Furthermore, her research into replacing synthetic additives with natural alternatives in processed meat products underscores her commitment to food safety and public health. Through patents and applied projects, her research has extended beyond academia into practical industry solutions.

Academic Citations and Recognition

Her publications in high-impact journals such as Food Chemistry, LWT, and Food Reviews International demonstrate both depth and breadth in scholarly output. Her work has been cited in a wide array of academic and industrial research, signifying her influence within the global scientific community. Recognition from peer-reviewed journals and repeated invitations to act as a reviewer highlight her credibility and standing in the field.

Technical and Research Skills

Dr. Hamidi-Esfahani is proficient in advanced techniques related to enzymology, microbial fermentation, food encapsulation, and biopolymer interactions. Her methodological expertise includes response surface methodology, food drying technologies, fermentation optimization, and the development of bioactive films. Her multidisciplinary skills allow her to integrate chemical engineering principles with food science innovations effectively.

Teaching and Academic Mentorship

As a graduate-level educator, she has taught a range of courses including Engineering of Food Technology, Industrial Microbiology, Biotechnology in Food Technology, and Advanced Food Processing. Her teaching approach integrates research and practical application, nurturing critical thinking and innovation among students. She has mentored numerous graduate theses and research projects, shaping the next generation of scientists in food science and technology.

Patents and Industrial Applications

Dr. Hamidi-Esfahani is an inventor on several national and international patents, including methods for glutamic acid production from food waste, natural pigment replacement in meat processing, and enzyme immobilization technologies. Her patented innovations, such as modified bioreactors for fermentation and bioactive nanofiber systems, reflect a strong orientation toward applied science and technology transfer to industry.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Hamidi-Esfahani’s legacy is one of interdisciplinary excellence and innovation in food biotechnology. Her academic and research contributions have paved the way for sustainable and health-oriented advancements in food processing and preservation. Looking ahead, her focus on integrating emerging technologies such as nanotechnology, encapsulation systems, and probiotic food development will continue to address global challenges in food security and health.

Notable Publications

Effect of potato pulp as a natural antioxidant on fat oxidation of fish waste during solid-state fermentation
Authors: H. Safdari, Z. Hamidi-Esfahani
Journal: Applied Food Research
Year: 2025

Continuous decontamination of cumin seed by non-contact induction heating technology: Assessment of microbial load and quality changes
Authors: E. Rahmati, M.H. Khoshtaghaza, A. Banakar, M.T. Ebadi, Z. Hamidi-Esfahani
Journal: Heliyon
Year: 2024

Improvement of the valuable compounds of fish waste through solid-state fermentation with probiotics
Authors: V. Dadkhodazadeh, Z. Hamidi-Esfahani, M. Khan-Ahmadi
Journal: Applied Food Research
Year: 2024

The influence of co-encapsulated L. plantarum and Silybum marianum seed extract on the physicochemical properties of synbiotic cheese during ripening
Authors: M. Bakhtiyari, Z. Hamidi-Esfahani, M. Barzegar
Journal: Food Chemistry: X
Year: 2024

Use of encapsulated garlic oil in low-fat salad dressings: Physicochemical, microbial and sensory properties
Authors: K. Khoshtinat, M. Barzegar, M.A. Sahari, Z. Hamidi
Journal: Applied Food Biotechnology
Year: 2022

Conclusion

Dr. Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani stands as a leading figure in food biotechnology and engineering. Through decades of academic leadership, impactful research, and mentorship, she has contributed significantly to scientific progress and industrial practice. Her blend of theoretical depth and applied innovation makes her an asset to the academic and scientific community, positioning her as a strong candidate for recognition and further academic distinction.

Mr. Ghanshyam Teli | Medicinal Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

School of Pharmacy, Sangam University, India

👨‍🎓Profiles

👨‍🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Mr. Ghanshyam Teli’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in pharmacy. He earned his B. Pharmacy from Geetanjali University in 2019 with a commendable 73.7%. His academic pursuit continued with a M. Pharmacy from ISF College of Pharmacy in 2021, where he achieved an impressive 82%. Currently, he is pursuing his Ph.D. at Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, enhancing his expertise in the field. His early academic focus was on chemical synthesis and drug discovery, where he worked on several research projects related to anti-cancer agents and inhibitors of oncogenic pathways.

🧑‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Mr. Teli has gained considerable professional experience, particularly in both academic and industrial settings. He has worked for 1.5 years as an Assistant Professor at the School of Pharmacy, Sangam University, Bhilwara, India, where he has been able to share his knowledge with students while continuing his research. His professional experience also includes 13 months at United Biotech Pvt Ltd as an Assistant R&D Chemist, where he contributed to several high-impact projects, including the synthesis of 4-Thiazolidinone derivatives and the development of Paclitaxel-HSA complex. Additionally, he spent 1 year as a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) at Acharya and B.M. Reddy College of Pharmacy in Bengaluru, further strengthening his research expertise.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Mr. Teli's research contributions have primarily focused on drug design, synthesis, and evaluation , with a particular emphasis on creating compounds for anti-cancer treatment. His work on 4-thiazolidinone conjugates as potential anti-breast cancer agents is notable, along with his project on the discovery of triangular heterocyclic molecules to inhibit dual oncogenic pathways. His research aims to contribute to developing novel therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment, especially targeting HSP90 and BRAF kinases.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Mr. Teli's professional journey demonstrates his commitment to both academia and industry. His industrial experience has allowed him to engage in multi-step synthesis processes and biological evaluations, making a tangible impact on pharmaceutical development. As an educator, he strives to impart his knowledge and inspire the next generation of pharmacists, sharing insights from both his research and industry experience. His contributions aim to foster innovations in drug design and therapy, particularly in cancer treatments.

📚 Academic Cites and Recognition

While Mr. Teli’s academic work is still evolving, his research projects on drug discovery, particularly in the field of cancer, have the potential for future recognition and citations. His detailed work in the design and synthesis of bioactive compounds, particularly those related to anti-cancer and anti-breast cancer agents, is likely to gain traction and be cited by peers in the academic and research communities.

💻 Technical Skills

Mr. Teli is proficient in several technical aspects of pharmaceutical chemistry, including: Synthesis of chemical compounds and characterization through advanced spectroscopy techniques such as UV, IR, and 1H NMR. Docking studies and predicting ADMET properties (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity) for potential drug candidates. Handling specialized equipment such as Flash Chromatography, Column Chromatography, Rota-evaporator, Vacuum dryer, UV-Vis Spectrophotometer, and pH meter. Expertise in computational tools like ChemDraw, Autodock, Molegro Virtual Docker (MVD), Pymol, and Discovery Studio, which aid in the structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis and molecular modeling.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As an Assistant Professor at the School of Pharmacy, Sangam University, Mr. Teli has honed his teaching skills, fostering a rich learning environment. His ability to explain complex concepts in pharmacy and drug design to students reflects his deep knowledge and communication skills. His teaching approach emphasizes practical application and encourages critical thinking. By sharing his industrial and research experiences, he connects students with real-world pharmaceutical challenges, aiming to inspire future innovations.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Mr. Teli’s ongoing research and academic efforts hold significant promise for the future of pharmacy education and drug discovery. His work on the synthesis of novel anti-cancer agents, especially those targeting key oncogenic pathways, has the potential to drive breakthroughs in cancer therapy. As he continues to pursue his Ph.D., Mr. Teli is committed to growing as a researcher and educator. He seeks to expand his knowledge, hone his technical skills, and make valuable contributions to drug development while guiding the next generation of pharmaceutical professionals.

📖Notable Publications

Synthetic product-based approach toward potential antileishmanial drug development
Authors: Pal, R., Teli, G., Akhtar, M.J., Matada, G.S.P.
Journal: European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry
Year: 2024
An outlook of docking analysis and structure-activity relationship of pyrimidine-based analogues as EGFR inhibitors against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
Authors: Pal, R., Teli, G., Sengupta, S., Maji, L., Purawarga Matada, G.S.
Journal: Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics
Year: 2024
Explanatory review on pyrimidine/fused pyrimidine derivatives as anticancer agents targeting Src kinase
Authors: Teli, G., Pal, R., Maji, L., Purawarga Matada, G.S., Sengupta, S.
Journal: Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics
Year: 2024
Designing strategies, structural activity relationship and biological activity of recently developed nitrogen containing heterocyclic compounds as epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosinase inhibitors
Authors: Pal, R., Teli, G., Matada, G.S.P., Dhiwar, P.S.
Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure
Year: 2023
The role of natural anti-parasitic guided development of synthetic drugs for leishmaniasis
Authors: Pal, R., Teli, G., Akhtar, M.J., Matada, G.S.P.
Journal: European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry
Year: 2023

Zohreh Hamidi-Esfahani | Food Chemistry | Best Researcher Award