Bozena Futoma-Koloch | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Faculty Award

Dr. Bozena Futoma-Koloch | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Faculty Award 

University of Wroclaw | Poland

Dr. Bożena Futoma-Kołoch is an accomplished microbiologist whose research integrates microbial pathogenesis, antimicrobial resistance, and host–pathogen interactions, with a particular focus on Salmonella enterica. She is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Microbiology at the University of Wrocław, where she has built a coherent and internationally recognized research program grounded in molecular microbiology, immunology, and environmental microbiology. Her scientific work has substantially advanced understanding of how environmental stressors especially disinfectants, antiseptics, and human serum—shape bacterial virulence and survival. A central theme of her research is the phenomenon of cross-resistance, whereby exposure to biocides influences bacterial tolerance to antibiotics and serum-mediated immune defenses. Through detailed phenotypic and proteomic analyses, Dr. Futoma-Kołoch has demonstrated that changes in outer membrane proteins (OMPs) play a pivotal role in mediating resistance to serum complement, antibiotics, and disinfectants. These findings have provided new mechanistic insights into bacterial adaptation and have identified OMPs as promising biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets in the fight against multidrug-resistant pathogens. Her habilitation work, “Effect of disinfectants and serum on the phenotype associated with virulence in non-typhoid Salmonella enterica strains” (2024), represents a significant milestone, consolidating years of systematic research into how chemical and immunological pressures modulate virulence-associated traits. This research has strong translational relevance for public health, food safety, and infection control, particularly in the context of increasing antimicrobial resistance and widespread biocide use. Dr. Futoma-Kołoch is also actively engaged in interdisciplinary and applied research. Dr. Futoma-Kołoch’s scholarly output includes influential review articles that are widely cited and shape current thinking on bacterial virulence, serum resistance, and antimicrobial defense mechanisms. Her leadership in international collaborations, participation in COST Actions, and service as an editor and reviewer for high-impact journals further attest to her standing in the global microbiology community. Overall, her research profile reflects originality, continuity, and significant impact on both basic science and applied infectious disease research.

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Featured Publications


Biological activity of quaternary ammonium salts and resistance of microorganisms to these compounds

– World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology, 2021 | Cited by: 57

 

Isaaca Sanusi | Bioremediation/Biodegradation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Isaaca Sanusi | Bioremediation/Biodegradation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Isaaca Sanusi | Bioremediation/Biodegradation | Best Researcher Award

University of KwaZulu-Natal,  South Africa

Profile

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👨‍🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Sanusi A. Isaac’s journey in science began in Ondo State, Nigeria, where he completed his foundational education at St. Paul’s Primary School and Unity Secondary School. Demonstrating an early interest in microbiology, he pursued a Bachelor of Technology in Microbiology at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, graduating with a Second Class Upper Division. Driven by curiosity and a desire for deeper specialization, he obtained his Master of Technology in Environmental Microbiology at the same institution. His passion for research and academic excellence culminated in a Ph.D. in Bioprocessing and Nanobiotechnology from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), South Africa (2016–2021), where he began exploring the intersection of environmental microbiology, biotechnology, and AI-based modeling.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Isaac's career reflects a rich blend of academic, research, and industrial experience. His professional journey started with an industrial attachment at 7up Bottling Company in Kano, where he worked in the Quality Control Department monitoring raw materials and finished products. He later served as a Consultant for USAID|Abt, contributing to real-time tuberculosis test result collection and transmission, which was a vital public health intervention.
At UKZN, he progressively held roles from Teaching Assistant to Ad hoc Lecturer, and currently serves as an Honorary Research Fellow in the Department of Life Sciences. He is also a Postdoctoral Research Fellow specializing in bioprocessing and nanobiotechnology.

🔬 Research Focus and Contributions

Dr. Isaac's research lies at the confluence of environmental microbiology, nanobiotechnology, and green economy technologies. His work delves into fermentation technology, biomass pretreatment, integrated biorefining, and process optimization. A prominent aspect of his contribution is the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly ANN and RSM models, to streamline bioprocessing—reducing time and labor while enhancing precision and scalability.
He has made significant contributions to scientific literature through peer-reviewed journal articles, book chapters, and presentations at international conferences. His data-driven approach to microbial biotechnology and process design aligns with global 4IR (Fourth Industrial Revolution) trends, positioning him as a thought leader in digital bioprocessing.

📚 Academic Citations and Influence

As an author of multiple scientific articles and book chapters, Dr. Isaac’s work is recognized and cited in the global research community. His AI-integrated methodologies and sustainable bioprocessing solutions have not only advanced microbial biotechnology but also influenced environmental sustainability efforts in both academic and applied contexts.

🧪 Technical Proficiency

Dr. Isaac possesses an extensive repertoire of technical skills, including:

  • Laboratory Management & Microbial Techniques

  • Data Analysis (Statistical & Computational Modeling)

  • Process Optimization using Response Surface Methodology (RSM)

  • Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) modeling

  • Biorefinery Design & Green Tech Applications

  • Real-time Diagnostic Platforms for Public Health

👨‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As an enthusiastic and effective educator, Dr. Isaac has taught a range of undergraduate and postgraduate microbiology modules, including:

  • Microbial Ecology

  • Environmental Microbial Biotechnology

  • Control of Microorganisms

  • Microbial Bioprocessing Techniques
    He is particularly adept at translating complex scientific concepts into accessible knowledge. His teaching roles at UKZN and the University of Fort Hare (UFH) have included both classroom instruction and mentorship, guiding students in research design, laboratory work, and scientific communication.

🌍 Impact and Mentorship

Recognized by numerous students as a dedicated academic mentor and referee, Dr. Isaac promotes learning through tutorials, workshops, and motivational support. He empowers communities and learners by linking theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, particularly in commercial and industrial microbiology.

🧭 Vision, Legacy & Future Contributions

Dr. Sanusi A. Isaac envisions a future where sustainable biotechnology plays a pivotal role in environmental conservation and industrial innovation. His research continues to push boundaries, particularly in the scaling-up of eco-friendly bioprocesses and AI-driven decision-making in microbiology. As an academic leader and innovator, he aspires to contribute to the development of smart, adaptive biotechnological systems that respond to environmental and industrial challenges in real time.

🎶 Hobbies and Personal Interests

Outside the lab and lecture hall, Dr. Isaac enjoys reading, listening to music, and inspiring others. His personal philosophy centers on growth, resilience, and community support—values that shine through his academic and professional endeavors.

📚 Selected Publications

  • Title: Nanotechnology in Bioprocess Development: Applications of Nanoparticles in the Generation of Biofuels
    Authors: Sanusi, I.A., Sewsynker-Sukai, Y., Gueguim-Kana, E.B.
    Journal: In: Lateef, A., Gueguim-Kana, E.B., Dasgupta, N., Ranjan, S. (eds) Microbial Nanobiotechnology. Materials Horizons: From Nature to Nanomaterials. Springer, Singapore.
    Year: 2021

  • Title: Optimal Complementary Wastewater Mixture for Chlorococcum Sp. Cultivation: Biomass Production, Lipid Accumulation and Wastewater Remediation Studies
    Author: Adeyemi Isaac Sanusi
    Platform: SSRN
    Year: 2022

  • Title: Potentials of Acremonium butyri Fungus in Pre-treatment and Hydrolysis Using Rice Husk Substrate for Biofuel Production: A Short Communication
    Authors: Sanusi, A., Sanusi, A., Farouq, A.A., Ibrahim, A.D., Shamsudeen, M.M., Usman, M.H., Bello, A.Y.
    Journal: UMYU Journal of Microbiology Research
    Volume: 5(2)
    Pages: 131–137
    Year: 2020

 

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sílvia Faria | Marketing | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sílvia Faria | Marketing | Best Researcher Award

Universidade Portucalense, Portugal.

Sílvia Maria Pereira da Silva Faria is a distinguished Portuguese academic and researcher specializing in Marketing and Business Sciences. With extensive experience in higher education and research, she has contributed significantly to consumer behavior, digital marketing, and brand loyalty. She is currently a Professor at Universidade Portucalense (UPT) and an Adjunct Professor at ISCAP – Instituto Superior de Contabilidade e Administração do Porto. Her research and publications have had a substantial impact on marketing strategies and consumer decision-making processes.

Profile

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🎓 Education

Sílvia Faria holds a Ph.D. in Economic Sciences (2012) from Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC), Spain, where she focused on consumer behavior in retail selection, analyzing key determinants influencing purchasing decisions in the Portuguese market. She earned a Master’s in Business Management (Marketing Specialization) (2002) from Universidade do Minho, Portugal, with research on brand loyalty among young consumers in the telecommunications sector. She also holds a Bachelor’s in Business Sciences (1999) from ISCET – Instituto Superior de Ciências Empresariais e do Turismo, which provided a strong foundation in business administration, finance, and marketing. In 2015, she obtained the Specialist Title in Marketing and Communication from ISCAP/ISCAC/IPAM, a professional recognition awarded in Portugal for expertise and significant contributions in the field of marketing and strategic communication.

👩‍🏫 Experience

Sílvia Faria has over 20 years of academic and research experience in Marketing and Business Sciences, specializing in consumer behavior, brand loyalty, and strategic marketing. Since 2018, she has been a Professor at Universidade Portucalense (UPT) and an Adjunct Professor at ISCAP – Instituto Superior de Contabilidade e Administração do Porto, where she teaches courses in marketing, business strategy, and market analysis. Her extensive teaching career includes previous roles at Universidade Lusíada, Universidade de Aveiro, Universidade Lusófona, Instituto Superior de Administração e Marketing (IPAM), and Instituto Superior da Maia (ISMAI). Throughout her career, she has contributed significantly to academic research, curriculum development, and mentorship, helping shape future professionals in marketing and business.

🔬 Research Interests

Consumer Behavior & Decision-Making

Brand Loyalty & Customer Experience

Digital Marketing & Artificial Intelligence in Marketing

Retail Management & Marketing Strategy

Innovation & Creativity in Business

🏆 Awards & Recognitions

Recognized Specialist in Marketing and Communication (2015) by ISCAP, ISCAC & IPAM

Awarded Laude by Unanimity for Ph.D. at URJC, Madrid

📚 Selected Publications

📖 Book Chapters & Journal Articles

Tavares, V., Pereira, M.S. & Faria, S. (2024). The Relevance and Pertinence of Creativity and Innovation in the Design of Creative Processes. Springer Series in Design and Innovation, 49, 50-64. 🔗 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-73705-3_4

Batista, B., Vale, V. & Faria, S. (2024). Covid-19 Pandemic, Digital Transformation, and Consumer Experience: Factors Influencing Satisfaction and Loyalty in Food Retail – The Portuguese Market. IGI Global. 🔗 DOI: 10.4018/978-1-6684-9146-1.ch001

Sousa Pereira, M., Faria, S., Cardoso, A. & Cairrão, A. (2023). Personal Leadership and Communication Abilities: Impacts on Organizational Performance. IntechOpen. 🔗 DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.1002647

Sousa Pereira, M., Faria, S., Cardoso, A., Sabino, E., Fonseca, J. & Soler, R. (2023). The Influence of Instagram on Consumer Behavior and Home Décor Purchases in Brazil. Springer, Smart Innovation, Systems, and Technologies, 337. 🔗 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-9099-1_49

Carvalho, J., Faria, S. & Oliveira, D. (2023). Artificial Intelligence Effectiveness in Customer Experience. IGI Global. 🔗 DOI: 10.4018/978-1-6684-8574-3.ch009

 

 

 

Mr. Getachew Ambaye | Soft Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Getachew Ambaye | Soft Robotics | Best Researcher Award

Wichita State University, United States.

Getachew Ambaye is an accomplished researcher, educator, and engineer specializing in industrial and mechanical engineering. Based in Wichita, KS, USA, he is currently completing his Ph.D. in Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering at Wichita State University (WSU). With extensive experience in academia and industry, he has contributed significantly to mechanical design, robotics, and manufacturing research. Getachew has a strong publication record in high-impact journals and actively participates in engineering education and research projects.

Profile

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Education 🎓

Getachew Ambaye is a dedicated researcher and engineer with a strong academic background in industrial and mechanical engineering. He is currently completing his Ph.D. in Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering at Wichita State University, USA (2022–Present) and is ready to defend his dissertation. Prior to this, he pursued a Higher Diploma Program at Bahir Dar Institute of Technology (BiT), Ethiopia (2021–2022) to enhance his expertise in engineering education. He holds an MSc. in Mechanical Design Engineering from Jimma Institute of Technology (JiT), Ethiopia (2017–2020), where he focused on advanced mechanical design principles and numerical analysis. His journey in engineering began with a BSc. in Mechanical Engineering from Jimma Institute of Technology (JiT), Ethiopia (2012–2016), providing him with a solid foundation in mechanical systems, design, and manufacturing. Through his academic and research pursuits, Getachew continues to contribute to advancements in robotics, manufacturing, and industrial automation.

Experience 💼

Teaching & Academic Positions

Getachew Ambaye has extensive teaching experience in engineering education across multiple institutions. Since 2022, he has been an Instructor at Wichita State University, USA, where he teaches IME 222: Engineering Graphics, its associated IME 222L lab (focusing on 3DX & CATIA V5), and serves as a Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA) for IME 425: Kinematics and Dynamics Design. In 2024, he joined Hesston College, USA, as an Engineering Professor, where he teaches ENGR 422: Design of Machines, mentors students in ENGR 477 & 478: Senior Design Capstone Project, and guides courses in ENGR 372 & 371: Mechatronic System Design & Fundamentals. Before moving to the U.S., he was a Lecturer at Bahir Dar Institute of Technology (BiT), Ethiopia (2020–2022) and served as an Assistant Lecturer and Lecturer at Jimma Institute of Technology (JiT), Ethiopia (2016–2020). Additionally, he contributed as a Guest Lecturer/Trainer at Ethio Engineering Group (EEG), Ethiopia (2021–2022), delivering specialized training programs.

Research Interests 🔬

Soft Robotics & Finite Element Analysis

Machine Learning for Industrial Applications

Mechanical System Dynamics & Vibration Analysis

Product Design & Development

Advanced Manufacturing Processes

Awards & Recognitions 🏆

Dr. David M. Aber Scholarship, Wichita State University (2024)

Volunteer & Participant, 2024 COExperience & MBSE Cyber Systems Symposium

Presenter, Multiple international conferences including IWAMA, ICAST, and ICT4DA

Selected Publications 📚

Soft Robot Workspace Estimation via Finite Element Analysis and Machine Learning
Actuators, 2025 | DOI: 10.3390/act14030110
Contributors: Getachew Admassie Ambaye, Enkhsaikhan Boldsaikhan, Krishna Krishnan

Soft Robot Design, Manufacturing, and Operation Challenges: A Review
Journal of Manufacturing and Materials Processing, 2024 | DOI: 10.3390/jmmp8020079
Contributors: Getachew Admassie Ambaye, Enkhsaikhan Boldsaikhan, Krishna Krishnan

Robot Arm Damage Detection using Vibration Data and Deep Learning
Neural Computing and Applications, 2024 | DOI: 10.1007/s00521-023-09150-3
Contributors: Getachew Ambaye, Enkhsaikhan Boldsaikhan, Krishna Krishnan

Contact Temperature Analysis of the Classical Geneva Mechanism through Numerical Methods
Materials Today: Proceedings, 2022 | DOI: 10.1016/j.matpr.2022.01.420
Contributors: Getachew A. Ambaye, Hirpa G. Lemu, Mesay A. Tolcha

Numerical Stress Analysis and Fatigue Life Prediction of the Classical External Geneva Mechanism
Book Chapter, 2022 | DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-0572-8_23
Contributors: Getachew A. Ambaye, Hirpa G. Lemu

 

 

Dr. Stefan Gordanić | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Stefan Gordanić | Agronomy | Best Researcher Award

Institute for Medicinal Plants Research “Dr Josif Pančic”, Serbia.

Dr. Stefan Gordanić is a dedicated agricultural scientist specializing in medicinal plants and sustainable farming. Currently a Research Associate at the Institute for Medicinal Plant Research "Dr. Josif Pančić" in Belgrade, Serbia, Dr. Gordanić has focused his career on biodiversity conservation, domestication of medicinal plants, and optimizing agro-technical measures for resource efficiency. His Ph.D. dissertation evaluated the morphological and chemical properties of wild garlic (Allium ursinum L.) from Serbia. He actively contributes to international projects and conferences and has published extensively in his field.

Profile

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Education 🎓

Dr. Stefan Gordanić has a robust academic background in agriculture, specializing in crop farming, land and water management, and agronomy. He earned his B.Sc. in Agriculture, focusing on Crop Farming, from the University of Belgrade, Serbia, in 2018. In 2019, he completed an M.Sc. in Agriculture with a specialization in Land and Water Management at the same institution. Furthering his expertise, Dr. Gordanić pursued and successfully completed a Ph.D. in Agronomy at the University of Belgrade, spanning from 2019 to 2024, solidifying his role as a dedicated expert in the field.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Stefan Gordanić has accumulated diverse professional experience in agriculture and research. From 2018 to 2019, he worked as an Agricultural Advisor at PSSS Loznica, providing expertise and guidance to enhance agricultural practices. Following this, from 2019 to 2020, he served as a Researcher at the Zemun Polje (ZP) Maize Institute, where he contributed to advancements in maize research. Since 2020, Dr. Gordanić has been a Research Trainee and Associate at the Institute for Medicinal Plant Research "Dr. Josif Pančić" in Belgrade, focusing on medicinal plant research and furthering his contributions to the scientific community.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Gordanić's research focuses on:

Biodiversity conservation

Domestication of medicinal and aromatic plants

Agro-technical measures for resource efficiency

Sustainable agriculture and soil management

Awards 🏆

Participant in the "International Training Workshop on Modern Breeding and Cultivation Technology of Vegetables & Flowers" (2021)

Member of organizing committees for international conferences on sustainable agriculture

Selected Publications 📚

Influence of Habitat Factors on the Yield, Morphological Characteristics, and Total Phenolic/Flavonoid Content of Wild Garlic (Allium ursinum L.) in the Republic of Serbia

Horticulturae (2025-01-22)

Contributors: Stefan V. Gordanić, Aleksandar Ž. Kostić, Đorđe Moravčević, Sandra Vuković, Sofija Kilibarda, Ana Dragumilo, Željana Prijić, Milan Lukić, Tatjana Marković

Analysis of the State of Organic Soybean Production in Serbia

Acta agriculturae Serbica (2024)

Contributors: Jelena Golijan-Pantović, Bojan Dimitrijević, Mile Sečanski, Stefan Gordanić

The Natural Habitats, Nutrients, and Heavy Metal Status of Wild Steppe Peony Populations in Serbia

Horticulturae (2024-09-12)

Contributors: Tatjana Marković, Bojana Tanasić, Stefan Gordanić, Željana Prijić, Snežana Mrđan, Ana Dragumilo, Milan Lukić, Dragoja Radanović

Nutritional and Phytochemical Comparative Analysis of Conventional/Organic Maize Grain Before and After Subjection to Accelerated Aging Test - A Preliminary Study

Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca (2024-06-03)

Contributors: Jelena Golijan Pantović, Radivoj Petronijević, Stefan Gordanić, Danijel D. Milinčić, Radiša Đorđević, Dušica Jovičić, Slavoljub Lekić, Aleksandar Ž. Kostić

In Vitro Evaluation of Antioxidative Activities of the Extracts of Petals of Paeonia lactiflora and Calendula officinalis Incorporated in the New Forms of Biobased Carriers

Food and Feed Research (2022)

Contributors: P.M. Batinić, M.D. Milošević, M.M. Lukić, Ž.S. Prijić, S.V. Gordanić, V.M. Filipović, A.D. Marinković, B.M. Bugarski, T.Lj. Marković