Nyambane Ontita | Microbiology | Best Research Article Award

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Dr. Nyambane Ontita | Microbiology | Best Research Article Award

Central South University, China

Profile

ORCID

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Nyambane Clive Ontita's academic journey reflects a deep-rooted passion for environmental microbiology and sustainable technologies. He began his undergraduate studies with a Bachelor of Science in Education (Biology/Agriculture) from Bugema University, Uganda, in 2010, which laid a strong foundation in biological sciences and teaching. Driven by a growing curiosity about microbial life, he pursued a Master of Science in Microbiology at Kenyatta University, Kenya, graduating in 2015. His passion for advanced research and problem-solving led him to China, where he is currently completing a Ph.D. in Environmental Microbiology at Central South University (2021–2025), under the mentorship of Prof. Weimin Zeng.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Clive’s professional path is as dynamic as it is impactful. He served as a Part-time Lecturer at Kisii University (2015–2021), where he taught medical microbiology and mentored students in both theory and practical laboratory skills. Simultaneously, he lectured at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) (2016–2021), handling modules in general microbiology and environmental physiology. These roles not only honed his communication and instructional abilities but also solidified his role as a dedicated educator and mentor. Earlier in 2015, he gained hands-on clinical experience as a Graduate Researcher at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, working on microbial ecology and antibiotic resistance in clinical settings.

🔬 Research Focus and Scientific Contributions

Clive's doctoral research centers on microbial electrochemical strategies for rare earth element (REE) recovery and wastewater treatment, merging microbiology with environmental engineering. He has engineered bioelectrochemical systems (BES) capable of recovering Ce(III), Y(III), Gd(III), and La(III) from contaminated industrial and mining waste streams. His work delves into biofilm dynamics, metal resistance, and biogeochemical transformations, utilizing sophisticated techniques such as XPS, SEM, XRD, and FTIR. Clive also employs 16S rRNA sequencing, qPCR, and PICRUSt for microbial community analysis and functional predictions. His research significantly contributes to the fields of metal recovery, biostabilization, and sustainable waste management, aligning with global environmental sustainability goals.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Clive’s work holds both academic and environmental significance. Through his research, he addresses urgent global challenges such as waste valorization, emerging contaminant degradation, and mine waste reuse. His efforts are shaping innovative solutions that integrate microbial systems into sustainable industrial practices. Recognized for his leadership and innovation, Clive has been honored as the Best Research Student at Central South University (2024) and Best Research Group Presenter (2022)—a testament to his scientific rigor and ability to inspire peers.

📚 Academic Citations and Scholarly Presence

Clive’s scholarly output and impact can be tracked through his profiles on ORCID and Google Scholar, where his contributions to environmental microbiology and bioremediation are gaining citations. His academic footprint continues to grow, reinforcing his influence in both African and international scientific communities.

🧪 Technical Skills and Competence

Clive is proficient in a wide array of advanced laboratory and analytical techniques. His core competencies include DNA extraction, 16S rRNA sequencing, qPCR, and bioinformatics analysis. He is also skilled in instrumental techniques such as ICP-OES, XRD, SEM, XPS, and FTIR, essential for surface and mineral analysis. His expertise in designing and operating BES reactors, coupled with data processing using OriginLab, SPSS, and GraphPad Prism, highlights his interdisciplinary strengths across biology, chemistry, and engineering domains.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

An enthusiastic educator, Clive has spent over six years teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in microbiology. At Kisii University and JKUAT, he supervised student research and practical laboratory sessions, nurturing future scientists in microbial culturing, molecular diagnostics, and environmental analysis. His teaching philosophy is centered on hands-on learning, critical thinking, and real-world applications, which have had a lasting impact on many aspiring microbiologists in Kenya.

🏅 Conferences, Networking & International Exposure

Clive has actively participated in international academic forums, gaining exposure to global innovations and collaborative opportunities. Notably, he attended the Annual International Training Courses (AITC) in Bangkok, Thailand (August 2024), focusing on Carbon Neutrality and Net Zero Emissions. He also presented at the 9th Graduate Innovation Forum on the Low-Carbon Development of Metal Resources at Central South University in 2023. These engagements highlight his commitment to environmental solutions at a global scale.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Clive envisions a future where microbial technologies transform waste into resources, and he aims to lead research and training initiatives that support sustainable development in Africa and beyond. His interdisciplinary approach uniquely positions him to contribute to policies and technologies for cleaner industries, resource recovery, and bio-inspired material science. As a rising scholar, Clive is set to leave a lasting legacy through innovation, mentorship, and international collaboration.

Selected Publications

Title: Electrochemically active biofilms responses to gadolinium stress during wastewater treatment in bioelectrochemical systems
Authors: Nyambane Clive Ontita, Anaman R., Sarkodie E. K., Wang Y., Bichi A. H., Shanshan X., ... & Zeng W.
Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials
Year: 2025
Title: Insights into anode substrate optimization in bioelectrochemical systems for efficient cathodic lanthanum recovery during wastewater treatment
Authors: Nyambane Clive Ontita, Emmanuel Konadu Sarkodie, Richmond Anaman, Tang Yun Hui, Weimin Zeng
Journal: Journal of Water Process Engineering
Year: 2024
Title: Substrate-Mediated Enhancement of Bioelectrochemical Systems for Sustainable Rare Earth Element Recovery from Mining Wastewater
Authors: Nyambane Clive Ontita, Richmond Anaman, Charles Amanze, Hyline Nyangweso, Weimin Zeng
Journal: Journal of Water Process Engineering
Year: 2025
Title: Mechanistic Insights into Biphasic Effects of Ce(III) on Anode Biofilms in Bioelectrochemical Systems during Industrial Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Nyambane Clive Ontita, Charles Amanze, Richmond Anaman, Xiao Shanshan, Tang Yun Hui, Felix Kwofie, Pius Abraham Tetteh, Weimin Zeng
Journal: Water, Air, and Soil Pollution
Year: 2025
Title: Isolation and Whole-genome analysis of Desmodesmus sp. SZ-1, a novel acid-tolerant carbon-fixing microalga
Authors: Wang Y., Liu A., Amanze C., Ontita N. C., Zeng W.
Journal: Bioresource Technology
Year: 2024

 

Samra Qaraghuli | Antibiotics | Women Researcher Award

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Dr.Samra Qaraghuli | Antibiotics | Women Researcher Award

Dr.Samra Qaraghuli | Antibiotics | Women Researcher Award

college of pharmacy mustansiriyah university, Iraq

Profile

google scholar

Early Academic Pursuits

Hailing from Baghdad, Iraq, I began my academic journey at Al-Mustansiriyah University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology/Biotechnology (2005) and a Master of Science in Botany with a focus on Medicinal Plants (2008). My deep-rooted interest in plant science and natural products led me to pursue further studies in South Australia, where I completed an English proficiency program at the Intensive English Language Institution (IELI). This linguistic and cultural immersion set the stage for my doctoral studies.

In 2018, I earned my Ph.D. from Flinders University, Adelaide, with a research focus on the purification of novel antibiotics and bioactive compounds from Australian macrofungi. This research was recognized with several prestigious awards including first prize in the AMP Ignite Competition, Future Scientist Award of South Australia, and a nomination for the PhD Excellence Award.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Currently, I serve as a full-time lecturer at the College of Pharmacy, Mustansiriyah University, and as an adjunct lecturer at the College of Pharmacy, The American University of Iraq – Baghdad. My teaching portfolio includes courses in Pharmacognosy and Natural Product Analysis, where I combine theoretical frameworks with hands-on laboratory training. I have also contributed extensively to the curriculum development and accreditation compliance (ACPE) at Mustansiriyah University as the Program Compliance Officer.

Previously, I worked at Novartis Pharmaceuticals Australia (2019–2022) in several roles, including Ethics, Risk, and Compliance Coordinator, QA Specialist, and Manage Access Program Coordinator. These roles enhanced my professional competencies in quality assurance, compliance, stakeholder communication, and risk management.

I also held a research-based position as an Associate Biologist at the National Diabetes Centre (2009–2011), where I gained expertise in serology, bacteriology, and tissue culture techniques.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

My academic research centers on macrofungi, natural products chemistry, medicinal plants, microbiology, and biotechnology. My doctoral work at Flinders University made significant contributions to the identification and purification of bioactive compounds with potential pharmaceutical applications, particularly in the fight against antibiotic resistance.

I’ve also contributed to scientific knowledge through presentations at national and international conferences, supported by travel and research grants from respected institutions such as the Australasian Mycological Society, Field Naturalists Society of South Australia, and Flinders University.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Beyond academic instruction, I am deeply committed to science communication and educational development. I have mentored students in various capacities and coached the ELO Competition Team in 2024, guiding them to a Fourth Prize finish. My efforts to foster scientific curiosity and communication have made a measurable impact in both academic and public engagement spheres.

As a volunteer bilingual mentor in South Australia and a participant in university-led educational programs, I have actively contributed to the cultural and intellectual integration of international students.

📚 Academic Cites and Awards

My scholarly excellence has been recognized through numerous awards:

  • 🥇 First Prize – AMP Ignite Competition (2018)

  • 🏆 Future Scientist Award, South Australia (2018)

  • 🎓 Nominated for PhD Excellence Award, Flinders University (2019)

  • 🧭 AMS Conference Travel Grant (2016)

  • 🧳 FUSA Development & Conference Grants (2016)

  • 🌱 Field Naturalists Society of SA Grant (2015)

  • 🇮🇶 Doctoral Scholarship from HCED, Iraq (2013)

I also earned Flinders University Horizon Awards (Silver, Gold, and Platinum), demonstrating my commitment to academic leadership, communication, and community involvement.

🧰 Technical Skills

My technical expertise includes:

  • Natural Product Extraction and Chromatographic Techniques (TLC, HPLC, GC, Column Chromatography, etc.)

  • Mycology and Mushroom Cultivation

  • Molecular Biology: DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, cDNA synthesis

  • Microbiology & Serology: Quantitative genetics, bacterial culture, serological analysis

  • Cell and Tissue Culture Techniques

  • Compliance and QA Systems: SOP writing, CAPA management, Risk Assessment

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Since 2012, I have taught a variety of pharmacy and biomedical science courses, primarily in Pharmacognosy. I specialize in:

  • Medicinal plant identification and classification

  • Pharmacological and chemical profiling of natural products

  • Chromatographic separation methods

  • Microscopic and macroscopic crude drug evaluation

  • Tissue culture and secondary metabolite production

My teaching style emphasizes interactive labs, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry, with a focus on student engagement and curriculum innovation.

🏛️ Legacy and Future Contributions

With a solid foundation in the biological sciences, cross-cultural education, and pharmaceutical research, I aspire to contribute meaningfully to Al Akhawayn University. My goal is to integrate traditional knowledge of medicinal plants with modern scientific techniques and foster a research culture that supports interdisciplinary collaboration, student mentorship, and international partnerships.

My long-term vision involves the advancement of pharmaceutical education, promotion of natural product-based research, and enhancing global health outcomes through science and innovation.

📚 Selected Publications

  • Title: Gastrointestinal disorders in children with autism: Could artificial intelligence help?
    Authors: Al-Biltagi M, Saeed NK, Qaraghuli S
    Journal: Artificial Intelligence in Gastroenterology
    Year: 2022

  • Title: Effects of COVID-19 on children with autism
    Authors: Al-Biltagi M, Saeed NK, Bediwy AS, Alhawamdeh R, Qaraghuli S
    Journal: World Journal of Virology
    Year: 2022

  • Title: A new species of small black disc fungi, Smardaea australis (Pezizales, Pyronemataceae), is described from Australia
    Authors: Catcheside PS, Qaraghuli S, Catcheside DE
    Journal: Swainsona
    Year: 2017

  • Title: Report on the workshop of the Adelaide Fungal Studies Group, Deep Creek Conservation Park, 2-6 July 2015
    Authors: Catcheside P, Walsh R, Qaraghuli S
    Journal: South Australian Naturalist
    Year: 2015

 

Dr. Joseph Blondeau | Clinical Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Joseph Blondeau | Clinical Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Royal University Hospital/University of Saskatchewan, Canada.

Dr. Joseph M. Blondeau is a distinguished microbiologist with extensive expertise in clinical microbiology, infectious diseases, and antimicrobial resistance. He currently serves as the Interim Provincial Clinical Lead for Microbiology at the Saskatchewan Health Authority and has been the Head of Clinical Microbiology at the Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon, Canada, since 2000. With a career spanning over three decades, Dr. Blondeau has made significant contributions to medical microbiology, serving as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Saskatchewan while actively consulting for hospitals and laboratories.

Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Dr. Joseph M. Blondeau's academic journey began with his B.Sc. in Biology from Dalhousie University in 1983, followed by an Honours B.Sc. in Biology from the same institution in 1985. He continued his studies at Dalhousie, earning a Master of Science in Microbiology in 1985, under the guidance of Dr. J.A. Embil. Dr. Blondeau further advanced his expertise in the field of microbiology, obtaining his Ph.D. in Medical Microbiology from the University of Manitoba in 1989, where he worked under the supervision of Dr. F.Y. Aoki. His solid educational foundation laid the groundwork for his groundbreaking contributions to the field of clinical microbiology and infectious diseases. Dr. Blondeau's early education was completed at Riverview Rural High School in Coxheath, Nova Scotia, where he graduated with his Academic Grade 12 in 1978.

🏢 Professional Experience

Dr. Joseph M. Blondeau has held several prominent positions in the field of microbiology throughout his career. Since 2019, he has served as the Interim Provincial Clinical Lead for Microbiology at the Saskatchewan Health Authority, overseeing the province's microbiology services. In addition to this, Dr. Blondeau has been the Head of Clinical Microbiology at Royal University Hospital and the Saskatoon Health Region since 2000, where he leads clinical microbiology services and research initiatives. He has also been the Head of Clinical Bacteriology/Clinical Microbiologist at Royal University Hospital since 1996, further establishing his expertise in clinical bacteriology. Dr. Blondeau’s academic contributions have been significant, serving as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Saskatchewan since 1991, where he shares his extensive knowledge with students in microbiology and immunology.

Earlier in his career, he served as the Director of Microbiology/Clinical Microbiologist at St. Paul's Hospital in Saskatoon from 1991 to 1996, where he led the microbiology department. Dr. Blondeau has also provided consultancy services in various hospitals and laboratories, including Lloydminster Hospital (1991–1997), Biggar Union Hospital (1991–1992), Prairie Associated Pathologist Laboratory (1991–1992), and MDS – Medical Arts Laboratory (1993–1996), where he advised on microbiological diagnostics and treatment.

🔍 Research Interests

Dr. Blondeau’s research primarily focuses on:

Antimicrobial Resistance 🦠

Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases 🏥

New Antimicrobial Agents & Testing Methods 💊

Diagnostic Microbiology Innovations 🔬

Bacterial Pathogenesis & Emerging Pathogens 🧫

His work contributes to advancing infection control strategies and optimizing antimicrobial treatment options for public health and hospital settings.

🏆 Awards & Honors

Dalhousie Graduate Fellowship – Faculty of Graduate Studies (1983–85)

Dalhousie Teaching Assistantship – Faculty of Graduate Studies (1983–85)

Dalhousie Graduate Travel Grant – First-ever awarded by the Department of Microbiology (1984)

Dalhousie University Honour Award – Certificate of Distinction for outstanding extracurricular activities (1985)

Certified Registered Microbiologist – Canadian College of Microbiologists (1991)

Specialist Microbiologist in Public Health & Medical Microbiology – Canadian College of Microbiologists (1995)

Fellow, The American College of Chest Physicians – (1997)

📚 Selected Publications

Comparison of the Minimum Inhibitory and Mutant Prevention Drug Concentrations for Pradofloxacin and 7 Other Antimicrobial Agents Tested Against Swine Isolates of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae and Pasteurella multocida

Authors: Blondeau, J.M., Fitch, S.D.

Published in: Molecules (2024)

Volume: 29(22)

 

Comparative Minimum Inhibitory and Mutant Prevention Drug Concentrations for Pradofloxacin and Seven Other Antimicrobial Agents Tested Against Bovine Isolates of Mannheimia haemolytica and Pasteurella multocida

Authors: Blondeau, J.M., Fitch, S.D.

Published in: Pathogens (2024)

Volume: 13(5)

Citations: 1

Comparative In Vitro Killing by Pradofloxacin in Comparison to Ceftiofur, Enrofloxacin, Florfenicol, Marbofloxacin, Tildipirosin, Tilmicosin, and Tulathromycin Against Bovine Respiratory Bacterial Pathogens

Authors: Blondeau, J.M., Fitch, S.D.

Published in: Microorganisms (2024)

Volume: 12(5)

Citations: 1

Long COVID: A Consequence of Chronic Post-Infectious Inflammation!

Authors: Blondeau, J.M.

Published in: Expert Review of Respiratory Medicine (2024)

Volume: 18(12)