Kausik Paul | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Dr . Kausik Paul | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Project Scientist at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center , United States

Dr. Kausik Paul is a dedicated immunologist and project scientist at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, specializing in red blood cell (RBC) alloimmunization and transfusion medicine. With a strong academic foundation in microbiology, biophysics, and immunology, he has contributed significantly to understanding immune responses in lupus and transfusion settings. His work includes notable first-author publications in Frontiers in Immunology and Antioxidants, as well as multiple conference presentations on alloantibody responses in lupus mouse models. Dr. Paul has a strong history of scientific productivity, including peer-reviewed publications, patents, and impactful collaborative research. His technical expertise spans flow cytometry, cytokine profiling, and qPCR, supporting his efforts to refine personalized transfusion protocols. While he could further enhance his profile by securing independent funding and leading larger-scale projects, his current contributions reflect originality, depth, and clinical relevance. Dr. Paul is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with clear potential for continued impactful research.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Kausik Paul has a comprehensive and interdisciplinary educational background that has shaped his expertise in immunology and transfusion medicine. He began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology, followed by a Master’s degree in Biophysics from Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada University, Aurangabad. His growing interest in immune mechanisms led him to pursue a Ph.D. in Infectious Diseases and Immunology at IICB-CSIR and Jadavpur University, Kolkata, where he developed a strong foundation in antigen-antibody interactions and immune response regulation. To further expand his knowledge, Dr. Paul completed postdoctoral training in immunology at the University of Manitoba and the University of Arizona, gaining exposure to advanced immunological techniques and research models. His education has been integral to his development as a researcher, equipping him with the scientific rigor and technical skills necessary to investigate complex immune responses, particularly in the context of RBC alloimmunization and autoimmune conditions like lupus.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Kausik Paul has amassed extensive professional experience in immunology, with a focus on transfusion medicine and red blood cell (RBC) alloimmunization. Currently serving as a Project Scientist at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center since 2022, he leads research exploring immune responses to RBC antigens, particularly in lupus models. Prior to this, he held faculty positions as an Assistant Professor at Seacom Skills University and Glocal University, where he was involved in both teaching and research. His earlier postdoctoral appointments at the University of Manitoba and the University of Arizona enriched his expertise in cellular immunology and advanced laboratory techniques. Throughout his career, Dr. Paul has demonstrated a strong command of experimental approaches such as flow cytometry, cytokine profiling, and qPCR. His roles have included both independent and collaborative research, manuscript writing, and conference presentations. These experiences have collectively positioned him as a skilled and impactful researcher in the field of immunological science.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Kausik Paul’s research interests lie primarily in immunology, with a specialized focus on red blood cell (RBC) alloimmunization, autoimmune disorders, and transfusion medicine. He is particularly interested in understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms behind alloantibody formation in response to RBC antigens, especially in autoimmune conditions such as lupus. His current research explores the roles of type 1 and type 2 interferons in modulating immune responses to transfused RBCs, aiming to develop personalized transfusion strategies that minimize alloimmunization risk. Dr. Paul is also deeply invested in investigating inflammatory cytokine profiles, interferon-stimulated gene expression, and antigen presentation processes. His long-term goal is to translate basic immunological findings into clinically applicable solutions that enhance patient outcomes during blood transfusion therapies. Through the integration of advanced immunological techniques and animal models, Dr. Paul aspires to contribute significantly to the field of transfusion science and improve therapeutic protocols for immunocompromised

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Kausik Paul has been recognized with several prestigious awards and honors throughout his academic and research career, reflecting his dedication and contributions to the field of immunology. He was the recipient of the Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) from the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), India, in 2007, which is awarded to outstanding doctoral candidates in scientific research. In 2006, he was also granted a Senior Research Fellowship through a project funded by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), India, underscoring his involvement in high-impact research initiatives. Earlier, in 2003, Dr. Paul received a Research Fellowship under a project funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), India, during the initial stages of his research career. These honors not only highlight his scientific capabilities but also demonstrate the recognition he has earned from national funding agencies for his commitment to advancing biomedical research and innovation in immunology and related fields.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Kausik Paul possesses a comprehensive range of research skills that span basic and translational immunology, with a strong emphasis on red blood cell (RBC) alloimmunization and autoimmune disease models. He is highly proficient in advanced laboratory techniques, including flow cytometry for cellular analysis and crossmatching, quantitative PCR for gene expression profiling, and ELISA-based assays for measuring cytokines and immune responses. His expertise extends to in vivo experimental design using mouse models, particularly in lupus research, where he investigates type 1 and type 2 interferon pathways and their influence on alloantibody production. Dr. Paul also demonstrates strong analytical skills in data interpretation, experimental troubleshooting, and scientific writing, as evidenced by his numerous publications and conference presentations. His ability to integrate immunological theory with practical experimentation has been instrumental in uncovering novel insights into transfusion medicine. Collectively, his technical competencies and critical thinking make him a valuable contributor to biomedical research.

Conclusion💡

Dr. Kausik Paul demonstrates a strong case for the Best Researcher Award, especially within the domains of transfusion medicine and immunology. He has a proven track record of impactful research, interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation (patents), and consistent engagement with the global scientific community through publications and conferences.

While there are areas he can build on—especially independent funding, mentorship, and institutional leadership—his current trajectory and recent accomplishments, particularly in a high-impact field like lupus-related RBC alloimmunization, are highly commendable.

Publications Top Noted✍

  • Title: Activated T lymphocytes migrate toward the cathode of DC electric fields in microfluidic devices
    Authors: J Li, S Nandagopal, D Wu, SF Romanuik, K Paul, DJ Thomson, F Lin
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 91

  • Title: N-acetyl cysteine enhances imatinib-induced apoptosis of Bcr-Ablâș cells by endothelial nitric oxide synthase-mediated production of nitric oxide
    Authors: S Rakshit, J Bagchi, L Mandal, K Paul, D Ganguly, S Bhattacharjee, …
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 48

  • Title: Leishmania donovani Infection of Human Myeloid Dendritic Cells Leads to a Th1 Response in CD4âș T Cells from Healthy Donors and Patients with Kala-Azar
    Authors: M Ghosh, L Mandal, S Maitra, S Rakshit, K Paul, J Bagchi, D Ganguly, …
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 30

  • Title: Granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor drives monocytes to CD14^low CD83âș DCSIGN⁻ interleukin‐10‐producing myeloid cells with differential 

    Authors: D Ganguly, K Paul, J Bagchi, S Rakshit, L Mandal, G Bandyopadhyay, …
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 26

  • Title: Chromone linked nitrone derivative induces the expression of iNOS2 and Th1 cytokines but reduces the Th2 response in experimental visceral leishmaniasis
    Authors: S Mallick, S Halder, A Dutta, S Dey, K Paul, S Maiti, C Bandyopadhyay, …
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 22

  • Title: Dendritic cells and antigen trapping technology—a revolution in vaccine/immunotherapy strategy
    Authors: C Pal, D Ganguly, K Paul, S Pal
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 5

  • Title: Distinct RBC alloantibody responses in type 1 interferon-dependent and -independent lupus mouse models
    Authors: K Paul, R HernĂĄndez-Armengol, JY Lee, CY Chang, T Shibata, …
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 3

  • Title: Inhibitors of phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3) and inducers of nitric oxide (NO)
    Authors: S Bandyopadhyay, BC Pal, J Parasuraman, S Roy, JB Chakrabotry, …
    Year: 2016
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Expression of Concern: Hydroxychavicol, a Piper betle leaf component, induces apoptosis of CML cells through mitochondrial reactive oxygen species‐dependent 

    Authors: JB Chakraborty, SK Mahato, K Joshi, V Shinde, S Rakshit, N Biswas, …
    Year: 2012
    Citations: 1

Daniele Lages | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Mrs . Daniele Lages | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Doutoranda at Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais , Brazil

Daniele dos Santos Lages is a dedicated Brazilian researcher specializing in public health, with a focus on epidemiology, particularly related to leprosy (hanseníase). Her work combines academic rigor with social impact, addressing neglected diseases and strengthening primary healthcare systems. She is fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, which allows her to collaborate across international boundaries. Daniele has received multiple academic honors, presented research at notable conferences, and published significant contributions on disease surveillance and public health policy. Her involvement in research groups, notably NEPHANS at UFMG, underlines her leadership in advancing public health research in Brazil. She has also completed various international and national health training programs, demonstrating a commitment to lifelong learning and capacity building. Daniele’s blend of academic achievement, research productivity, and social responsiveness positions her as an influential figure in public health, making her a strong candidate for recognition through research and academic excellence awards.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Daniele dos Santos Lages has pursued an outstanding academic path focused on nursing and public health at the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), one of Brazil’s top universities. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Nursing, followed by a specialization in Family Health (ResidĂȘncia Multiprofissional) from the same institution. She further advanced her academic qualifications by completing a Master’s degree and is currently a doctoral candidate in Nursing with a focus on Public Health at UFMG. Throughout her educational journey, she has consistently focused on public health issues, particularly in disease prevention and control, with a strong emphasis on leprosy. Her academic background is complemented by several national and international certifications in epidemiology, health surveillance, and neglected tropical diseases, many of which are issued by globally recognized bodies like WHO and PAHO. This combination of formal education and specialized training gives her a strong foundation for conducting impactful, evidence-based health research.

Professional Experience📝

Daniele has built a meaningful professional career around research and public health services, with an emphasis on leprosy control and primary healthcare strategies. She is an active member of the NEPHANS research group at UFMG, where she contributes to epidemiological studies, health surveillance analysis, and healthcare delivery systems. Her work includes data-driven policy evaluations and healthcare service assessments focused on vulnerable populations affected by neglected diseases. Daniele has authored and co-authored several academic papers and posters, many of which were presented at national and international conferences, receiving awards for scientific excellence. In addition to her research, she has participated in teaching, public health campaigns, and collaborative projects with health institutions and government agencies. Her hands-on experience with Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS) has informed her practical understanding of public health challenges. By combining academic insight with field engagement, Daniele bridges the gap between theory and practice, making her contributions highly relevant and applicable.

Research Interest🔎

Daniele dos Santos Lages is deeply committed to advancing research in public health, with her primary focus on the epidemiology of neglected tropical diseases, particularly leprosy (hanseníase). Her academic and professional endeavors revolve around disease surveillance, healthcare accessibility, health equity, and the effectiveness of Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS). Daniele is particularly interested in the social determinants of health, evaluating how poverty, education, and access to care affect disease prevalence and treatment outcomes. She explores the intersection of clinical practice and public policy to propose practical, evidence-based improvements in primary care. Her research integrates quantitative epidemiological data with qualitative insights from affected populations, aiming to inform public health strategies and reduce disease-related stigma. As a doctoral researcher, she is involved in multidisciplinary investigations that align with global health priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those concerning the elimination of neglected diseases and the promotion of universal health coverage.

Award and Honor🏆

Daniele dos Santos Lages has been recognized multiple times for her academic excellence and impactful research in public health. Among her accolades, she received awards for the best oral presentation at national conferences, highlighting her effective communication and the societal relevance of her work. She has also been granted scholarships and research support through prestigious programs like PROBIC/FAPEMIG, affirming the merit of her scientific inquiries. Her participation in highly competitive international training programs hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) further underscores her status as a distinguished emerging scholar. These programs focus on epidemiological intelligence, health surveillance, and strategies to combat neglected tropical diseases. Daniele’s consistent recognition reflects her commitment to scientific rigor, community health, and leadership within Brazil’s healthcare research community. These honors not only validate her contributions but also inspire her continued efforts to advance evidence-based practices in public health and epidemiology.

Research Skill🔬

Daniele dos Santos Lages possesses a robust set of research skills that equip her to address complex public health issues with analytical precision and social sensitivity. Her expertise spans epidemiological data analysis, qualitative and quantitative research design, health indicators assessment, and policy evaluation. She is proficient in statistical software and epidemiological tools used for surveillance and data interpretation, allowing her to derive actionable insights from large health datasets. Daniele also demonstrates strong competencies in scientific writing, grant proposal development, and knowledge translation for both academic and public audiences. She actively applies mixed-method approaches to explore healthcare access, disease distribution, and the effectiveness of Brazil’s health policies. In addition to technical skills, she excels in collaborative research, working across disciplines and institutions to contribute to national and international public health projects. Her fluency in Portuguese, English, and Spanish facilitates international collaboration, making her a versatile and globally relevant public health researcher.

Conclusion💡

Daniele dos Santos Lages exhibits exceptional promise and achievement as a public health researcher, particularly in the domain of leprosy surveillance and primary healthcare systems. Her strong academic background, dedication to neglected diseases, and proactive engagement in capacity-building initiatives mark her as a passionate and purpose-driven professional. Her research is not only scientifically relevant but socially responsive, aligning closely with global health equity goals. Although she would benefit from more diversified research themes and wider international exposure, her foundation is solid and future potential is significant. With continued interdisciplinary collaboration and publication in global platforms, Daniele is well-positioned to make substantial contributions to global public health. Therefore, she is a strong and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, especially within categories that recognize early-career excellence, commitment to social determinants of health, and contributions to underrepresented health issues in vulnerable populations. Her work exemplifies the blend of academic rigor and societal relevance that such awards aim to honor.

Publications Top Noted✍

  • Title: A baixa escolaridade estĂĄ associada ao aumento de incapacidades fĂ­sicas no diagnĂłstico de hansenĂ­ase no Vale do Jequitinhonha
    Authors: D dos Santos Lages, BM Kerr, I de Caux Bueno, ENA Niitsuma, FCF Lana
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 51

  • Title: Spatial analysis of the epidemiological risk of leprosy in the municipalities of Minas Gerais
    Authors: IC Bueno, DS Lages, FCF Lana
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 12

  • Title: Profile of the leprosy endemic in the district of Murrupula, Nampula, Mozambique: A population-based study
    Authors: GC Ribeiro, DS Lages, ATC Lages, VB Souza, A Marega, FCF Lana, …
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 4

  • Title: ConsistĂȘncia do registro dos casos de hansenĂ­ase no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação em Minas Gerais-perĂ­odo: 2017 a 2021
    Authors: GCS Reis, DS Lages, FCF Lana
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Avaliação do grau de incapacidade fĂ­sica por hansenĂ­ase em Minas Gerais
    Authors: D dos Santos Lages, BM Kerr, I de Caux Bueno, ENA Niitsuma, SL Vidal, …
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Spatial, Social and Serological Factors in the Prevalence and Risk of Leprosy in Areas of High Endemicity: An Integrative Review
    Authors: DS Lages, ICL Maciel, SL Vidal, FCF Lana
    Year: 2025
    Citations: Not listed (assumed 0 or pending)

  • Title: AnĂĄlise da ocorrĂȘncia de sĂ­filis em gestantes em um municĂ­pio da RegiĂŁo Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte entre 2011 e 2021
    Authors: SL Dias, D dos Santos Lages, ICL Maciel, FCF Lana
    Year: 2025
    Citations: Not listed

  • Title: Correlation and Trends in Primary Health Care and Family Health Strategy Coverage of Leprosy Detection in Minas Gerais
    Authors: DS Lages, ICL Maciel, SL Vidal, FCF Lana
    Year: 2025
    Citations: Not listed

  • Title: An interrupted time series study of the leprosy case detection in Brazil after the COVID-19 pandemic
    Authors: GJB Sousa, DS Lages, PPL Barbosa, MCN Rocha, SA de Sena Neto, …
    Year: 2025
    Citations: Not listed

Sepideh Khoee | Polymer Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

🌟 Prof Dr. Sepideh Khoee, University of Tehran, Iran: Polymer Chemistry🏆

Professional Profiles:

Bio Summary:

Dr. Sepideh Khoee is a highly accomplished polymer chemist and professor at the University of Tehran, Iran. She earned her Ph.D. in polymer chemistry from Isfahan University of Technology in 2002, following an M.Sc. in organic chemistry and a B.Sc. in chemistry from Isfahan University. With a focus on nanotechnology and drug delivery, Dr. Khoee has made substantial contributions to her field, earning her international recognition and several prestigious awards.

Education:

  • Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry, Isfahan University of Technology, 2002
  • M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry, Isfahan University, 1994
  • B.Sc. in Chemistry, Isfahan University, 1990

Research Focus:

  • Synthesis of micro/nanomotors
  • Synthesis of linear and branched copolymers
  • Synthesis of drug-loaded nanopolymers for drug delivery investigations

Professional Journey:

  • Professor, Department of Polymer Chemistry, University of Tehran (2013-present)
  • Visiting Associate Professor, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Lehigh University, USA (2009-2010)
  • Associate Professor, Department of Polymer Chemistry, University of Tehran (2008-2013)
  • Assistant Professor, Department of Polymer Chemistry, University of Tehran (2003-2008)

Honors & Awards:

  • Maryam Mirzakhani Award at the 4th National Festival of Women and Science (2021)
  • COMSTECH Patent Award (2019)
  • Distinguished Researcher of Chemistry, University of Tehran Research Week (2018, 2015)
  • Outstanding Researcher, 7th Iran Nano Festival (NanoMatch, 2013)

Publications Top Noted & Contributions:

  • Author of several book chapters on nanotechnology and drug delivery
  • Notable works include chapters on medicinal plant-based terpenoids, reversible core–shell crosslinked micelles, and Janus nanoparticles in drug delivery

Title: “Use of NIR/NaBH4 Combinatorial Techniques for Simultaneous and High-Efficient Adsorption of Heavy Metal Ions from Contaminated Water by Chitosan/Au Janus Microdisks”

  • Journal: Surfaces and Interfaces
  • Publication Date: December 2023
  • DOI: 10.1016/j.surfin.2023.103801
  • Source: Crossref
  • Summary: This study explores the application of NIR (Near-Infrared) and NaBH4 combinatorial techniques for the simultaneous and efficient adsorption of heavy metal ions from contaminated water. The adsorption is facilitated by Chitosan/Au Janus Microdisks.

Title: “Magnetite‐Based Janus Nanoparticles, Their Synthesis and Biomedical Applications”

  • Journal: WIREs Nanomedicine and Nanobiotechnology
  • Publication Date: November 2023
  • DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1908
  • Source: Crossref
  • Summary: This article focuses on the synthesis of Magnetite-based Janus Nanoparticles and explores their potential biomedical applications.

Title: “Tuning the Motion Velocity of Enzyme-Driven Dextran/Polyacrylamide Janus Nanomotors by Incorporating the Thermo-Switchable PNIPAM Moieties in Their Structure”

  • Journal: European Polymer Journal
  • Publication Date: July 2023
  • DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2023.112113
  • Source: Crossref
  • Summary: This research investigates the modulation of motion velocity in enzyme-driven Dextran/Polyacrylamide Janus Nanomotors through the incorporation of thermo-switchable PNIPAM moieties.

Title: “Dual-Drug Delivery by Anisotropic and Uniform Hybrid Nanostructures: A Comparative Study of the Function and Substrate–Drug Interaction Properties”

  • Journal: Pharmaceutics
  • Publication Date: April 11, 2023
  • DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041214
  • Source: Crossref
  • Summary: This study presents a comparative analysis of dual-drug delivery using anisotropic and uniform hybrid nanostructures, exploring their function and substrate-drug interaction properties.

Title: “The Simultaneous Role of Porphyrins’ H- and J- Aggregates and Host–Guest Chemistry on the Fabrication of Reversible Dextran-PMMA Polymersome”

  • Journal: Scientific Reports
  • Publication Date: December 2021
  • DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-82256-7
  • Source: Crossref
  • Summary: This article explores the simultaneous roles of porphyrins’ H- and J-aggregates and host–guest chemistry in the fabrication of reversible Dextran-PMMA polymersomes.

These publications showcase Dr. Sepideh Khoee’s diverse research interests, spanning from environmental applications to biomedical nanotechnology and drug delivery. Her work reflects a multidisciplinary approach with a focus on innovative materials and techniques.

Author Metrics:

  • Holds a patent: “Synthesizing Nanocapsules Containing Reactive Amine” (US Patent 20,150,307,649)
  • Recognized for significant contributions to the field with awards such as the COMSTECH Patent Award and the Maryam Mirzakhani Award
  • Citations: 3,332 citations across 2,636 documents
  • Documents: 143
  • h-index: 36

Research Timeline:

  • 1996-2002: Ph.D. in polymer chemistry
  • 2003-2008: Assistant Professor, Department of Polymer Chemistry, University of Tehran
  • 2008-2013: Associate Professor, Department of Polymer Chemistry, University of Tehran
  • 2009-2010: Visiting Associate Professor, Lehigh University, USA
  • 2013-present: Professor, Department of Polymer Chemistry, University of Tehran

Dr. Khoee’s research journey reflects a commitment to advancing polymer chemistry, nanotechnology, and drug delivery, earning her accolades and recognition both nationally and internationally.