Ms Fatou Kiné Top | Virology | Best Researcher Award |

Ms Fatou Kiné Top | Virology | Best Researcher Award |

Institut Pasteur de Dakar,Senegal

Professional Profiles:

ORCID

 👨‍🎓 Bio Summary:

Ms. Fatou Kiné Top, a dedicated researcher from Dakar, Senegal, excels in molecular biology and population genetics. Currently a Ph.D. student and senior technician at the prestigious Institut Pasteur de Dakar, she contributes to advancing diagnostic tools for infectious diseases. Known for her strong teamwork, discipline, and technical expertise, Ms. Top is committed to creating impactful solutions for public health challenges in Senegal.

🎓 Educational Background:

Ms. Top holds a Master’s degree in Population Genetics and Molecular Biology (2020–2023) and a Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, and Geosciences (2017–2020) from the University Cheikh Anta Diop in Dakar, Senegal. She also earned a Baccalaureate in Experimental Science in 2017 from El Hadji Ibrahima Bâ High School and completed a computer science certificate from ANPEJ in the same year.

🔍 Research Focus:

Her research centers on the development and validation of diagnostic tools for rotaviruses and enteric adenoviruses, crucial pathogens affecting public health. At the Institut Pasteur de Dakar, she focuses on molecular diagnostic tests such as LAMP, nucleic acid extraction, PCR, and sequencing, as well as serological methods like ELISA and immunofluorescence. She is also part of the DIDIDA project, deploying diagnostic tools to improve healthcare in Senegal.

🏆 Honors & Awards:

While no specific awards are mentioned, Ms. Top’s work has been recognized within her professional community, earning respect for her innovative research contributions and teamwork at the Institut Pasteur de Dakar.

💼 Professional Experience:

Ms. Top is a Ph.D. researcher and senior technician at the Institut Pasteur de Dakar (2024–present), where she evaluates and deploys diagnostic tests for infectious diseases. She also gained hands-on experience during her Master’s program (2022–2023), practicing molecular and serological diagnostic techniques, and contributed to the accreditation of viral encephalitis diagnosis in Senegal. Earlier internships at the Koungheul Hospital and the national Biosafety Laboratory helped her build foundational skills in medical analysis and plant biotechnology.

 

📚 Top Noted Publications :

Title: Establishment of a New Real-Time Molecular Assay for the Detection of Babanki Virus in Africa

✍️ Authors: Martin Faye, Mathilde Ban, Fatou Kiné Top, Elhadji Ndiaye, Fatou Diène Thiaw, Gamou Fall, Moussa Moise Diagne, Amadou Alpha Sall, Mawlouth Diallo, Valérie Choumet, et al.

📆 Year of Publication: 2024

📕 Journal: Viruses

🔗 DOI: 10.3390/v16121841

Conclusion:

Fatou Kine Top demonstrates a strong potential to qualify for the “Best Researcher Award” based on her impressive academic background, technical skills, and impactful research in molecular diagnostics and public health. However, to further enhance her competitiveness:

She should focus on publishing her research findings in high-impact journals.

Improving her English proficiency will enable her to access more international opportunities and audiences.

Continued professional development and diversification of her research scope could strengthen her application for future accolades.

Overall, her work aligns well with the award’s objectives, particularly if the focus includes contributions to public health and societal impact.

Dr MARTIN FAYE | Diagnostic tools | Excellence in Research Award |

Dr. MARTIN FAYE | Diagnostic tools| Excellence in Research Award |

Institut Pasteur de Dakar,Senegal

Professional Profiles:

SCOPUS

ORCID

 👨‍🎓 Bio Summary:

Dr. Martin Faye, a distinguished virologist from Senegal, is the Head of the Rabies and Viral Encephalitis Lab at the Institut Pasteur de Dakar. With over a decade of experience in infectious disease research, Dr. Faye has contributed significantly to the global understanding of arboviruses, viral encephalitis, and other zoonotic diseases. His expertise spans molecular epidemiology, infectious disease diagnostics, and genomic surveillance, particularly in response to public health emergencies like Ebola and SARS-CoV-2. Known for his dedication to capacity building, he has trained numerous scientists across Africa, strengthening regional diagnostic capabilities.

🎓 Educational Background:

Dr. Faye earned his Ph.D. in Virology in 2017 from the University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal, where he conducted groundbreaking research on the molecular epidemiology of viral encephalitis. He holds a Master’s degree in Molecular Virology (2012) from the same institution, focusing on West Nile virus replication kinetics. His academic foundation was established with a Bachelor’s degree in Natural Sciences in 2010, followed by a Baccalaureate in 2006 from Lycée Blaise Diagne.

🔍 Research Focus:

Dr. Faye’s research is centered on infectious disease epidemiology, molecular virology, and public health microbiology. His primary focus areas include arboviruses, viral hemorrhagic fevers, rabies, enteroviruses, and SARS-CoV-2. He has led efforts in genomic surveillance, virus-host interactions, and developing molecular diagnostic tools. His work has had a profound impact on the understanding and management of viral outbreaks in West Africa.

🏆 Honors & Awards:

Dr. Faye has been recognized for his critical role in infectious disease response. He served as a WHO consultant during the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and received a Certificate of Satisfaction from WHO-AFRO for his contributions. Additionally, he has earned certificates of excellence for his peer-review work from prestigious journals such as Pathogens.

💼 Professional Experience:

Since 2023, Dr. Faye has been leading the Rabies and Viral Encephalitis Lab at Institut Pasteur de Dakar. He is also the Deputy Head of the sequencing core facility, contributing to the WHO Inter-country Reference Center for Poliomyelitis. His extensive fieldwork includes deploying mobile labs for COVID-19 diagnostics in Senegal and serving as a laboratory expert for the Ebola outbreak in the DRC. He has also played a pivotal role in training scientists from various African countries in molecular diagnostics and sequencing technologies.

 

📚 Top Noted Publications :

Title: Molecular Epidemiology and Pathogenicity of Wesselsbron Virus Circulating in Africa
Authors: Faye, M.; Di Paola, N.; Dia, M.; Sall, A.A.; Faye, O.
Journal: Virus Research
Year: 2024
Index: Volume 350, Article 199499
Citations: 0

Title: Recent Molecular Epidemiology of Echovirus 11 Throughout North and West Africa Resulted in the First Identification of a Recombinant Strain from an Acute Flaccid Paralysis Case in West Africa
Authors: Ndiaye, N.; Thiaw, F.D.; Lagare, A.; Faye, O.; Faye, M.
Journal: Viruses
Year: 2024
Index: Volume 16, Issue 11, Article 1772
Citations: 0

Title: Navigating the Route to Polio Eradication in the WHO AFRO Region
Authors: Chia, J.E.; Faye, M.; Jermaine, K.; Ahmed, J.; Anfumbom, K.
Journal: The Lancet
Year: 2024
Index: Volume 404, Issue 10463, Page 1637
Citations: 0

Title: Enhancing Readiness in Managing Mpox Outbreaks in Africa
Authors: Faye, M.; Roth, C.; Fitchett, J.R.A.; Sall, A.A.; Sow, A.
Journal: The Lancet
Year: 2024
Index: Volume 403, Issue 10446, Page 2779
Citations: 1

Title: Rapid Detection of Ebolavirus Using Isothermal Recombinase-Aided Amplification
Authors: Ceruti, A.; Faye, M.; Diagne, M.M.; El Wahed, A.A.; Weidmann, M.
Journal: Journal of Medical Virology
Year: 2024
Index: Volume 96, Issue 6, Article e29744
Citations: 0

Conclusion:

Dr. Martin Faye is a strong candidate for the Excellence in Research Award due to his extensive expertise in virology, impactful public health contributions, and commitment to capacity building in Africa. He demonstrates leadership in crucial global health initiatives and mentoring future scientists. Strengthening his publication record and pursuing broader research diversification would enhance his already impressive profile. He is a highly deserving candidate for this prestigious award.

Dr Claudia Rotondo | Molecular Biology | Women Researcher Award |

Dr. Claudia Rotondo | Molecular Biology | Women Researcher Award | 

Istituto Nazionale per le Malattie Infettive Lazzaro Spallanzani , Italy

Professional Profiles:

SCOPUS

ORCID

 👨‍🎓 Bio Summary:

Dr. Claudia Rotondo is a dedicated biologist and health researcher with significant experience in virology and microbiology. Based in Italy, she works with INMI “Lazzaro Spallanzani” in Rome, where her focus lies in infectious disease diagnostics and research. With additional consulting roles at several private laboratories, Dr. Rotondo brings valuable expertise to her work in pathogen surveillance, infection control, and clinical trials, contributing to advancements in public health and virology.

🎓 Educational Background:

Dr. Rotondo holds an extensive educational background in biology and virology. She earned her specialization in Microbiology and Virology from Tor Vergata University in Rome, achieving the highest honors (50/50 cum laude) for her thesis on carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae in hospitalized patients. She completed advanced studies at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, with high distinction (80%) in clinical trial regulation and management. Dr. Rotondo also holds a Master’s in Molecular, Cellular, and Physiopathological Biology from Roma Tre University, where she graduated cum laude with a thesis on Ebola virus inactivation. Her foundational studies were completed with a Bachelor’s in Biological Sciences, also at Roma Tre University.

🔍 Research Focus:

Dr. Rotondo’s research centers on infectious diseases, with an emphasis on virological pathogens. She has studied a range of viral threats, including Ebola, MERS-CoV, and HIV-1, with a focus on the roles these viruses play in global public health. Her work contributes to infection surveillance and pathogen detection, particularly in hospital settings where controlling infectious agents is critical. Her ongoing involvement in the European LUCID project underscores her dedication to monitoring and addressing Clostridium difficile infections across healthcare settings.

🏆 Honors & Awards:

Dr. Rotondo has been recognized for her academic excellence throughout her studies, consistently graduating with honors. She achieved top distinctions for her theses at each educational level, particularly in areas critical to microbiology and virology. Her awards reflect her commitment to academic rigor and her ability to produce impactful research relevant to clinical and diagnostic microbiology.

💼 Professional Experience:

Dr. Rotondo is a researcher at INMI “Lazzaro Spallanzani” in Rome, a leading institution for infectious disease research in Italy. She also serves as a biological consultant for Diagnosilica “Adaltis” and the analysis lab at “Villa Mafalda” private clinic. Her experience extends to voluntary research at the University of Rome “La Sapienza” in the Molecular Virology Laboratory. Through these roles, she has developed expertise in pathogen detection, laboratory diagnostics, and infection prevention strategies, all of which are critical to healthcare settings and virology research.

📚 Top Noted Publications :

Title: Molecular Characterization of Multidrug-Resistant and Hypervirulent New Delhi Metallo-Beta-Lactamase Klebsiella pneumoniae in Lazio, Italy: A Five-Year Retrospective Study

Journal: Antibiotics

Publication Date: November 5, 2024

DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13111045

Authors: Claudia Rotondo, Carolina Venditti, Ornella Butera, Valentina Dimartino, Francesco Messina, Michele Properzi, Claudia Caparrelli, Valentina Antonelli, Silvia D’Arezzo, Marina Selleri, et al.

 

Title: Increased SAMHD1 Transcript Expression Correlates with Interferon-Related Genes in HIV-1-Infected Patients

Journal: Medical Microbiology and Immunology

Publication Date: October 1, 2019

DOI: 10.1007/s00430-018-0574-x

Authors: Maura Statzu, Letizia Santinelli, Agnese Viscido, Claudia Pinacchio, Giancarlo Ceccarelli, Claudia Rotondo, Giuseppe Corano Scheri, Ivano Mezzaroma, Ombretta Turriziani, Guido Antonelli, et al.

Conclusion:

Dr. Claudia Rotondo is a highly qualified candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award. Her extensive education and applied research experience in microbiology and virology equip her with valuable expertise for addressing critical health issues. Though she would benefit from a stronger publication record and independent project leadership, her foundational skills, research versatility, and contributions to important infectious disease projects make her an excellent candidate. Given her accomplishments and commitment, she has strong potential to make impactful advancements in virology and public health research.

Prof Dr Peng Liu | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award |

Prof Dr. Peng Liu | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award.

Hebei Agricultural University, China

Professional Profiles:

SCOPUS

 👨‍🎓 Bio Summary:

Prof. Dr. Peng Liu is a leading expert in public health and diagnostic technology, specializing in the study of wildlife pathogens and their impact on human health. He serves as the Director of the Hebei Wild Animal Health Research Center and holds positions as a researcher and doctoral supervisor at Hebei Agricultural University. Prof. Liu’s research focuses on the development of advanced diagnostic methods and therapeutic solutions for emerging infectious diseases, including coronavirus and influenza. His significant contributions are recognized through numerous publications in top international journals and several patents related to monoclonal antibodies and diagnostic tools. Honored as a “Double Hundred and Double Thousand Innovative Talent” by the Hebei Provincial Science and Technology Talent Program, Prof. Liu’s work reflects a strong commitment to advancing public health and improving disease management through innovative research and technology

🎓 Educational Background:

Prof. Dr. Peng Liu holds a doctoral degree in a relevant field from a prestigious institution. His extensive academic background has equipped him with the expertise needed for significant contributions to public health and diagnostic research

🔍 Research Focus:

Prof. Liu specializes in major public health risks associated with wildlife pathogens and diagnostic technologies. His research encompasses the development of innovative diagnostic methods and therapeutic solutions, particularly for emerging infectious diseases. His work addresses critical challenges in pathogen detection and disease management, with a focus on viruses such as coronavirus and influenza.

🏆 Honors & Awards:

Prof. Liu has been recognized as a “Double Hundred and Double Thousand Innovative Talent” by the Hebei Provincial Science and Technology Talent Program. He is also honored with leadership roles in key laboratories and technology centers in Hebei, reflecting his significant contributions and influence in the field

💼 Professional Experience:

Prof. Liu serves as the Director of the Hebei Wild Animal Health Research Center and is a researcher and doctoral supervisor at Hebei Agricultural University. He holds positions as the Deputy Director of the Key Laboratory of Pathogen Analysis and Prevention of Zoonoses and the Director of the Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Diagnostic Technology in Baoding City. His professional roles emphasize his leadership and expertise in public health and diagnostic technology

📚 Top Noted Publications :

Title: Retraction for Li et al., The current state of research on influenza antiviral drug development: drugs in clinical trial and licensed drugs
Authors: Li, Y., Huo, S., Yin, Z., Liu, Y., Yu, F.
Citations: 0
Index: mBio
Year of Publication: 2024 (Vol. 15, Issue 4)

Title: ADS-J21 is a novel HIV-1 entry inhibitor targeting gp41
Authors: Liang, R., Dou, D., Wang, C., Jiang, S., Yu, F.
Citations: 0
Index: Current Research in Microbial Sciences
Year of Publication: 2024 (Vol. 7, Article 100260)

Title: The current state of research on influenza antiviral drug development: drugs in clinical trial and licensed drugs
Authors: Li, Y., Huo, S., Yin, Z., Liu, Y., Yu, F.
Citations: 9
Index: mBio
Year of Publication: 2023 (Vol. 14, Issue 5)

Title: Clinical Application of SARS-CoV-2 IgM and IgG Antibody Detection Using the Colloidal Gold Immunochromatography Assay
Authors: Liu, L., Zhou, K., Xing, Y., Cai, K., Liu, P.
Citations: 0
Index: Zoonoses (Ireland)
Year of Publication: 2023 (Vol. 3, Issue 1, Article 46)

Conclusion:

Dr. Peng Liu’s extensive research achievements, innovative patents, and leadership in significant projects make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work has had a profound impact on public health diagnostics and pathogen research. Expanding his international collaborations and diversifying his research scope could further amplify his contributions and influence in the field.