Dr. Mahdi Hosseini Bafghi | Microbiology Award | Best Researcher Award

Laboratory manager at Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Iran

Seyedmahdi Hosseini Bafghi, a dedicated Iranian microbiologist, holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology from Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. Currently serving as the Head of the Microbiology Laboratory at the Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, he has over a decade of experience in laboratory management, quality control, and academic research. His expertise lies in microbiology, particularly fungal and bacterial resistance, and nanotechnology-based antimicrobial therapies. Seyedmahdi has contributed significantly to the field through research publications and conference presentations. His scholarly achievements include an H-index of 6, showcasing impactful contributions to clinical diagnostics, microbial genetics, and nanomedicine. With a passion for innovation, he actively explores the therapeutic potential of cutting-edge technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9 and selenium nanoparticles, to address global health challenges.

professional profiles

Scopus Profile

Education

Seyedmahdi Hosseini Bafghi completed his Bachelor’s degree in Laboratory Sciences from Mashhad Medical Sciences, followed by a Master’s degree in Microbiology at Tehran Science and Research Unit. His master’s thesis focused on the identification of Malassezia species in tinea versicolor patients using PCR-RFLP. He then earned his Ph.D. in Microbiology from Azad Islamic University, Qom branch. His doctoral research investigated the effects of biologically synthesized selenium nanoparticles on antifungal resistance genes in Aspergillus and Candida. Seyedmahdi’s academic journey reflects a strong commitment to advancing microbial diagnostics and treatment. His blend of foundational knowledge and specialized expertise underpins his innovative research in microbiology and nanomedicine.

work Experience

Seyedmahdi Hosseini Bafghi has extensive professional experience in microbiology and laboratory sciences. He served as the head of the specialized Arad Mashhad laboratory for two years and managed laboratories at the Shahid Dr. Chamran Health Clinic and Shandiz Health Center for three years each. For the past decade, he has led the Microbiology Laboratory at the Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. Additionally, Seyedmahdi has been an integral member of the microbial quality control team for the Deputy Food and Drug Administration. His expertise spans clinical diagnostics, laboratory management, and quality assurance, making him a recognized leader in his field.

Research Focus

Seyedmahdi Hosseini Bafghi’s research focuses on combating microbial resistance and advancing diagnostic technologies. His work explores the therapeutic applications of biologically synthesized nanoparticles, particularly selenium and silver, in overcoming fungal and bacterial resistance. He has also contributed to the development of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing techniques for cancer immunotherapy. Seyedmahdi’s research interests extend to identifying novel biomarkers for infectious diseases and improving laboratory diagnostics. His studies on biosynthesized nanoparticles and microbial resistance have laid the groundwork for innovative therapies targeting multidrug-resistant pathogens and fungal infections.

Conclusion

Dr. Seyedmahdi Hosseini Bafghi is a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his impactful contributions to microbiology, innovation in nanoparticle applications, and leadership in laboratory sciences. While he has room to expand his global collaborations and publication impact, his current achievements solidify his standing as a pioneering researcher in his field. This award would further acknowledge his dedication to advancing microbiology and inspire continued excellence.

Publications to Noted

Bagheri, S., Fard, G.B., Talkhi, N., Khamse, F.M., Hosseini Bafghi, M.
Laboratory Biochemical and Hematological Parameters: Early Predictive Biomarkers for Diagnosing Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Citations: 0
Year: 2024

Safdari, H., Bagheri, S., Talkhi, N., Hosseini Bafghi, M., Ahmadi, M.H.
Cq Values as an Indicator for COVID-19 Outcomes: A Study of the Correlation Between Laboratory Parameters
Citations: 1
Year: 2024

Bafghi, M.H., Ghanipour, F., Nazari, R., Aghaei, S.S., Jafari, P.
Enhancing the Antibacterial Impact of Lipopeptide Extracted from Bacillus Licheniformis as a Probiotic Against MDR Acinetobacter Baumannii
Citations: 5
Year: 2024

Kavousinia, P., Ahmadi, M.H., Sadeghian, H., Hosseini Bafghi, M.
Therapeutic Potential of CRISPR/CAS9 Genome Modification in T Cell-Based Immunotherapy of Cancer
Citations: 0
Year: 2024

Tahan, M., Zeraatkar, S., Neshani, A., Hashemi Shahri, S.H., Hosseini Bafghi, M.
Antibacterial Potential of Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles Using Berberine Extract Against Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter Baumannii and Pseudomonas Aeruginosa
Citations: 6
Year: 2024

Behrouzian Fard, G., Ahmadi, M.H., Gholamin, M., Karimi, M.A., Hosseini Bafghi, M.
CRISPR-Cas9 Technology: As an Efficient Genome Modification Tool in Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment
Citations: 5
Year: 2024

Moghadam, S., Azari, B., Rashidi, R., Selman, S.M., Zarrinfar, H.
Antifungal Activity of Three Different Varieties of Capsicum Annuum Against Clinical Isolates of Candida Species
Citations: 4
Year: 2023

Zeraatkar, S., Tahan, M., Sadeghian, H., Behmadi, M., Hosseini Bafghi, M.
Effect of Biosynthesized Selenium Nanoparticles Using Nepeta Extract Against Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas Aeruginosa and Acinetobacter Baumannii
Citations: 9
Year: 2023

Zeraatkar, S., Tahan, M., Rostami, O., Safdari, H., Hosseini Bafghi, M.
Antibacterial Activity of Mangifera Indica Seed Extracts Combined with Common Antibiotics Against Multidrug-Resistant Pseudomonas Aeruginosa and Acinetobacter Baumannii Isolates
Citations: 2
Year: 2023

Sadeghian, H., Zarrinfar, H., Safdari, H., Tahan, M., Hosseini Bafghi, M.
Enhancing the Antifungal Effect of Biosynthesized Selenium Nanoparticles Using Aspergillus Fumigatus
Citations: 3
Year: 2022

Dr. Tanushree Gupta | Microbiology | Women Researcher Award

Senior Scientist at AgResearch, New Zealand

Dr. Tanushree Barua Gupta is a Senior Scientist at AgResearch Ltd, New Zealand, with over 15 years of experience in the field of microbiology and food safety. She holds a Doctorate in Medical Microbiology and specializes in the identification of novel antimicrobials, the commercialization of lab-based innovations, and the development of advanced diagnostics for the food and agriculture sectors. Her research focuses on areas such as biocontrol, food spoilage, and the application of plant-based antimicrobials. Dr. Gupta has made significant contributions to improving the safety and shelf life of food products, with numerous publications and patents in the area of microbiology and food safety.

professional profiles

ORCID

Education

Dr. Gupta holds a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Medical Microbiology from the Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute, University of Delhi, India, completed in 2010. Her doctoral thesis, “Studies on detection and characterization of AmpC beta-lactamases in clinical isolates of Klebsiella spp. and Escherichia coli,” contributed significantly to the field of microbiology. She completed her Master of Science in Microbial and Food Technology from Punjabi University, Patiala, India, in 2004, where she further honed her expertise in the microbiological aspects of food and dairy. Dr. Gupta’s strong academic foundation supports her innovative research in antimicrobial agents, food safety, and biotechnology.

work Experience

Dr. Gupta’s research career spans over 15 years, beginning with her position as a Junior Research Fellow at the National Dairy Research Institute in India (2005). She has since served as a Postdoctoral Fellow at AgResearch (2010-2011) and then as a Senior Research Scientist at AgResearch Ltd, New Zealand, from 2011 onwards. Her research has primarily focused on microbial contamination, food spoilage bacteria, and the development of novel antimicrobial agents, particularly those isolated from farm environments. Dr. Gupta has collaborated internationally on projects aimed at improving food safety, with a particular emphasis on dairy and meat products. She works closely with dairy companies to enhance the shelf life of products and contributes to advancing biotechnology through the commercialization of her research. Her expertise also extends to the application of CRISPR technology in pathogen detection and the use of plant-based antimicrobials for food preservation.

Awards and honors

Dr. Tanushree Gupta has received multiple prestigious awards recognizing her contributions to the field of microbiology and food safety. In 2024, she was selected as a finalist for the AgriFutures Grow Catalyst Program for women in agriculture, a distinction she holds as the only New Zealand-based researcher. She was also honored with the Basil Jarvis Prize in Food Safety by Applied Microbiology International (2022). Dr. Gupta has received the KiwiNet Emerging Innovation Award (2022), the Humphrey M. Russel Award (2022), and the Young Scientist Award by FEMS (2016). Additionally, she was recognized as the Global Ambassador for Oceania Pacific of Applied Microbiology International in 2023. Her other accolades include being awarded the Senior Research Fellowship from the Indian Council of Medical Research and several travel grants to attend leading international conferences, showcasing her continuous global impact in the field of microbial research and food safety.

Research Focus

Skills

Dr. Gupta possesses an extensive skill set in microbiological research, specializing in the detection and characterization of pathogens in food systems. She is adept at applying advanced molecular techniques, such as PCR, real-time PCR, and CRISPR, for bacterial identification and diagnostics. Her expertise includes isolating and identifying novel antimicrobial agents from environmental sources, including farm environments. Dr. Gupta is proficient in the use of bioinformatics tools and multi-omics approaches for studying microbial communities and their interactions in food and farm environments. She has advanced knowledge in biocontrol methods, using bioactive compounds from bacteria to combat pathogens. Additionally, Dr. Gupta’s skill set extends to applying plant-based antimicrobials to enhance food preservation. With a strong background in commercializing scientific innovations, she plays an active role in translating laboratory research into practical applications, especially in the dairy and meat industries, to enhance food safety and shelf life.

Conclusion

Dr. Tanushree Barua Gupta is an outstanding candidate for the Women Researcher Award. Her innovative research, commitment to the commercialization of scientific discoveries, and recognition in the global scientific community make her a leader in the fields of microbiology, food safety, and applied research. She has not only made significant strides in improving food safety but also contributed to enhancing the sustainability and safety of agricultural practices. Dr. Gupta exemplifies the qualities of a trailblazer and role model for women in research and science.

Publications to Noted

Impact of Ultra-High-Pressure Homogenisation on the Inactivation of Bacillus pumilus and Bacillus subtilis Spores in Sheep and Cow Milk

Authors: Antony Anila, Aswathi Soni, Linda M. Samuelsson, Mike Weeks, Meng Wai Woo, Siew-Young Quek, Mohammed Farid, and Tanushree Gupta

Citations: 0 (since it’s from October 2024)

Year: 2024

DOI: 10.3390/foods13213452