Johnny Huard | Tissue Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Johnny Huard | Tissue Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Johnny Huard, Steadman Philippon Research Institute, United States

Dr. Johnny Huard, PhD, is an internationally recognized pioneer in regenerative medicine and stem cell research. He currently serves as the Chief Scientific Officer and Director of the Center for Regenerative and Personalized Medicine at the Steadman Philippon Research Institute, Vail, Colorado. In addition, Dr. Huard holds key leadership positions as Director of Research at ProofPoint Biologics and Professor in the Department of Surgery at Duquesne University. With over three decades of impactful research and innovation, he is most renowned for his groundbreaking work on muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs), which has profoundly influenced regenerative therapies across orthopedics, urology, cardiology, and beyond.

🔷Professional Profile

Scopus Profile

Google Scholar

🏆Strengths for the Award

Dr. Johnny Huard is an internationally acclaimed leader in regenerative medicine and gene therapy, particularly known for his pioneering work in muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs). With a Ph.D. in Neurobiology from Laval University (1993), Dr. Huard has consistently advanced the frontiers of stem cell biology, musculoskeletal regeneration, and tissue engineering. His postdoctoral training at McGill University and the University of Pittsburgh further solidified his expertise in gene therapy and skeletal muscle research. His multidisciplinary research approach bridges orthopaedic surgery, pathology, pediatrics, and molecular genetics.

Dr. Huard has led numerous high-impact international research collaborations and has served in pivotal roles, including Deputy Director at the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Director of the Stem Cell Research Center at the University of Pittsburgh. His projects have attracted significant funding and institutional backing, enabling translational breakthroughs in muscle regeneration, orthopaedic repair, and cardiac therapies. He has mentored dozens of Ph.D. students and postdoctoral fellows, establishing a legacy of scientific leadership and academic mentorship.

His prolific publication record includes authorship in high-impact journals indexed in Scopus, IEEE, ASBMR, and Cell Transplantation, with extensive citation metrics reflecting his influence. His work has been featured on the covers of journals such as Stem Cells, Molecular Therapy, and Journal of Orthopaedic Research. He holds over 10 patents in stem cell therapy, gene delivery, and regenerative medicine applications, underscoring his contributions to innovation.

Dr. Huard’s leadership transcends research. He has served as Chair or Co-Chair for numerous scientific committees and symposia, including the Vail Scientific Summit and Orthopaedic Research Society (ORS) committees. He sits on editorial boards of over 15 peer-reviewed journals and has reviewed grants for the NIH, DOD, and Canadian research councils. His dedication to the scientific community is also evident through his extensive service on national and international review panels, organizing committees, and advisory boards.

His accolades include the Kappa Delta Award from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, multiple New Investigator Recognition Awards (ORS), the Cabaud Memorial Award, and honorary degrees. His contributions have been consistently recognized for their societal impact, including treatments for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, osteoarthritis, and cardiovascular regeneration. He is a member of prestigious organizations such as AAAS, ISSCR, ASBMR, and the Orthopaedic Research Society, where he has also held elected positions.

🎓 Education

Dr. Huard began his academic journey at Gaspesie College, focusing on Pure & Health Sciences. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Rimouski University (U.Q.A.R.) in 1988, followed by both Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Neurobiology from Laval University. His graduate work investigated dystrophin localization at neuromuscular junctions and myoblast transplantation in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) models. His postdoctoral fellowships at McGill University and the University of Pittsburgh further developed his expertise in gene therapy and viral vector-based interventions for tissue regeneration.

💼 Experience

Dr. Huard’s academic career spans over 30 years and includes prestigious roles such as Henry J. Mankin Endowed Chair of Orthopaedic Surgery Research and Director of the Stem Cell Research Center at the University of Pittsburgh. He later served as Vice Chair for Research in Orthopaedic Surgery at UTHealth Houston. Currently, at the Steadman Philippon Research Institute, he leads numerous regenerative medicine initiatives that bridge basic science with clinical translation. He is also a devoted mentor, having trained more than 150 research fellows, clinicians, and junior faculty across the globe.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Huard’s research focuses on stem cell–based therapies for musculoskeletal and cardiovascular repair. He is internationally known for developing muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs) that possess regenerative capabilities for cartilage, bone, and soft tissue injuries. His lab integrates biomaterials, gene therapy, and tissue engineering to advance personalized medicine for conditions related to aging, trauma, and degenerative diseases. His translational research has catalyzed several clinical trials and novel treatment platforms, particularly in orthopaedics, urology, and sports medicine.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Huard’s exemplary contributions have earned him over 120 prestigious awards. Notably, he received the Kappa Delta Ann Doner Vaughn Award (2018) from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) for pioneering research in orthopaedic science. He was recognized as a New Investigator Recognition Award Finalist by the Orthopaedic Research Society (ORS) in 2019 and 2024, and received the ON/AOSSM Orthoregeneration Awards in 2019, 2022, and 2023 for innovative research on Fisetin in osteochondral repair. His academic excellence was further acknowledged with an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Quebec (2019) and the Cabaud Memorial Award (2019) from the AOSSM for outstanding sports medicine research. These honors highlight his unparalleled impact on regenerative medicine and tissue engineering.

📚 Publications Top Notes

A perivascular origin for mesenchymal stem cells in multiple human organs
Crisan M, Yap S, Casteilla L, Chen CW, … Huard J, Péault B
📌 Cell Stem Cell, 2008, 3(3): 301–313
🔍 Revealed that mesenchymal stem cells originate from perivascular niches in various tissues, reinforcing their regenerative potential and perivascular identity.

Identification of a novel population of muscle stem cells in mice: potential for muscle regeneration
Qu-Petersen Z, Deasy B, Jankowski R, … Huard J
📌 Journal of Cell Biology, 2002, 157(5): 851–864
🔍 Discovered MDSCs with superior regenerative capacity, showing effective repair in dystrophic and injured muscles in preclinical models.

Synergistic enhancement of bone formation and healing by stem cell–expressed VEGF and BMP-4
Peng H, Wright V, Usas A, … Huard J
📌 Journal of Clinical Investigation, 2002, 110(6): 751–759
🔍 Demonstrated enhanced angiogenesis and bone repair through co-expression of VEGF and BMP-4 in stem cells.

Muscle injuries and repair: current trends in research
Huard J, Li Y, Fu FH
📌 Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery, 2002, 84(5): 822–832
🔍 Reviewed advances in gene therapy, biomaterials, and cell-based treatments for skeletal muscle injury and regeneration.

Clonal isolation of muscle-derived cells capable of enhancing muscle regeneration and bone healing
Lee JY, Qu-Petersen Z, Cao B, … Huard J
📌 Journal of Cell Biology, 2000, 150(5): 1085–1100
🔍 Isolated unique progenitor cells with strong regenerative capacity for musculoskeletal applications.

🔚 Conclusion

Dr. Johnny Huard stands at the forefront of regenerative medicine, exemplifying a career defined by scientific leadership, innovation, and mentorship. With over 52,000 citations, an h-index of 119, and leadership in world-renowned institutions, his research has transformed the landscape of stem cell science and orthopedic regeneration. Beyond his scientific achievements, his mentorship has empowered a generation of researchers and clinicians to further his legacy. Dr. Huard is not only a trailblazer in regenerative therapies but also a worthy and inspiring nominee for the Best Researcher Award.

Muhammad Ibrar | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. MUHAMMAD IBRAR | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award 

Mr. Muhammad Ibrar, University of Science and Technology, China

Muhammad Ibrar is an accomplished researcher and academic in the field of chemistry with a particular focus on green nanotechnology, environmental remediation, and biomedical applications of nano-emulsions. He is currently working as a Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry at Lahore Garrison University, Lahore, Pakistan. With years of experience in both teaching and research, he has developed significant expertise in synthesizing nanomaterials and developing innovative strategies for environmental protection and healthcare. Ibrar’s work reflects a commitment to sustainable chemistry solutions that address critical global issues.

Professional Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Education

Ibrar began his academic journey with distinction, completing his MPhil in Chemistry (2018–2020) from the University of Education, Lahore. His focus included advanced spectroscopy, nano-chemistry, and natural product chemistry. He obtained his BSc in Chemistry from Lahore Garrison University (2014–2018), where he studied a broad spectrum of subjects like organic, inorganic, analytical, and industrial chemistry. His earlier education includes intermediate (2013) and matriculation (2010) from BISE Lahore, both completed with first division and a science focus.

👨‍🏫 Experience

Muhammad Ibrar has served as a Lecturer at Lahore Garrison University since September 2020. Prior to this, he worked as a Chemistry Lecturer at Peak Solutions Group of Colleges (2016–2020), and the Unique Group of Institutes (2018–2019). He was also a Research Associate at the Applied Chemistry Research Centre, PCSIR Lahore (2017–2020), where he contributed to critical research in nanocomposites and environmental remediation. In his current role, he is also actively involved in academic administration and curriculum development.

🔬 Research Interests

Ibrar’s research interests lie at the intersection of nanotechnology, environmental science, and green chemistry. He focuses on the eco-friendly synthesis of nanoparticles, nano-emulsions for therapeutic applications, and nanocomposites for water purification and heavy metal removal. He is also exploring the use of carbon-based materials for energy storage, redox flow batteries, and catalysis. His innovative approaches aim to create multifunctional solutions for pressing challenges such as wastewater contamination, microbial control, and wound healing.

📚 Publications Top Notes

Green Synthesis of Cr₂O₃ Nanoparticles by Cassia fistula

Citation: Yasmeen, G., Hussain, S., Tajammal, A., Mustafa, Z., Sagir, M., Shahid, M., Ibrar, M., et al. (2023). Arabian Journal of Chemistry, 16(8), 104912.
Impact Factor: 3.2
Summary: This study reports an eco-friendly synthesis of Cr₂O₃ nanoparticles using Cassia fistula extract, revealing strong electrochemical and antibacterial potential. The plant-mediated synthesis approach enhances biocompatibility and minimizes environmental impact, making it suitable for biomedical and environmental applications.

Garlic and Ginger Nano-Emulsions for Wound Healing

Citation: Ibrar, M., Ayub, Y., Nazir, R., Irshad, M., Hussain, N., Saleem, Y., & Ahmad, M. (2022). Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal, 30(12), 1700–1709.
Impact Factor: 4.56
Summary: This research formulates garlic and ginger essential oil-based nano-emulsions incorporated with neomycin. The product demonstrated accelerated healing and anti-inflammatory effects in skin wound models. It provides a novel, natural, and effective alternative to conventional treatments for skin injuries.

Clay-Based Nanocomposites for Water Purification

Citation: Fareed, F., Ibrar, M., Ayub, Y., Nazir, R., & Tahir, L. (2019). In Advanced Research in Nanosciences for Water Technology, pp. 217–248.
Impact Factor: ~2.1 (Book Chapter)
Summary: This comprehensive book chapter investigates the role of clay-based nanocomposites as cost-effective and efficient materials for water treatment. The authors provide an in-depth analysis of mechanisms, synthesis strategies, and practical applicability in purifying contaminated water.

Biochar-Based Nanocomposite for Heavy Metal Removal

Citation: Khalid, S., Chaudhary, M. N., Nazir, R., Ahmad, S. R., Hussain, N., Ayub, Y., & Ibrar, M. (2023). PLOS One, 18(9), e0289069.
Impact Factor: 4.75
Summary: This article presents a novel biochar-supported metallo-inorganic nanocomposite synthesized via a green approach. It effectively removes toxic heavy metals such as lead and chromium from water systems, contributing to the development of sustainable water purification methods.

Electrodialysis Using Modified Membranes

Citation: Ahmad, M., Hussain, S., Abid, M. A., Mumtaz, A., Ibrar, M., & Muhammad, S. (2022). Journal of Membrane Science and Research, 8(1).
Impact Factor: ~2.2
Summary: This study explores the fabrication of ultrathin anion-exchange coatings on cation-exchange membranes to enhance water dissociation in electrodialysis. The research introduces a novel bipolar junction concept for improving desalination efficiency and clean water production.

🎯 Conclusion

Muhammad Ibrar stands out as a dedicated and innovative chemist, whose work addresses critical needs in public health and environmental safety through green chemistry and nanotechnology. His selected publications demonstrate both scientific rigor and real-world applicability. With a growing citation record and active research contributions, he continues to make significant strides toward sustainable scientific solutions and is a deserving candidate for recognition in academic and research excellence.