Qiuyan Yu | Ecosystems | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Qiuyan Yu | Ecosystems | Best Researcher Award

Senior Scientist | New Mexico State University | United States

Dr. Qiuyan Yu is a distinguished environmental and ecological researcher affiliated with New Mexico State University, United States. With an academic portfolio comprising 26 publications and over 870 citations, Dr. Yu has made significant contributions to the fields of forest ecology, remote sensing, and environmental change analysis. Her research integrates geospatial technologies, ecological modeling, and landscape analysis to understand how environmental factors and human activities influence terrestrial ecosystems, particularly forests and agricultural landscapes. Notably, her recent works—such as “Interactions between the environment and plant functional type control global forest top-of-canopy height” (2026) and “Urban Expansion and the Loss of Agricultural Lands and Forest Cover in Limbe, Cameroon” (2025)—demonstrate her expertise in assessing the ecological consequences of urbanization and climate variability on land cover dynamics. With an h-index of 14, Dr. Yu’s scholarship reflects both depth and global relevance, emphasizing sustainable environmental management and conservation. Collaborating with a broad network of 68 co-authors across interdisciplinary domains, she advances scientific understanding of ecosystem resilience and biodiversity conservation in the context of rapid environmental transformation. Her work not only enhances predictive models of vegetation dynamics but also provides valuable insights for policy formulation, land-use planning, and sustainable development. Through her continued research and collaboration, Dr. Qiuyan Yu remains a leading figure in environmental science, contributing meaningfully to addressing global ecological challenges.

Profiles: Scopus |Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Zhao, A., Yu, Q., Feng, L., Zhang, A., & Pei, T. (2020). Evaluating the cumulative and time-lag effects of drought on grassland vegetation: A case study in the Chinese Loess Plateau. Journal of Environmental Management, 261, 110214. 
Cited by: 203

2. Acheampong, M., Yu, Q., Enomah, L. D., Anchang, J., & Eduful, M. (2018). Land use/cover change in Ghana’s oil city: Assessing the impact of neoliberal economic policies and implications for sustainable development goal number one–A remote sensing perspective. Land Use Policy, 73, 373–384. 
Cited by: 125

3. Pu, R., Landry, S., & Yu, Q. (2018). Assessing the potential of multi-seasonal high resolution Pléiades satellite imagery for mapping urban tree species. International Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation, 71, 144–158.
Cited by: 117

4. Yu, Q., Ji, W., Pu, R., Landry, S., Acheampong, M., O’Neil-Dunne, J., Ren, Z., et al. (2020). A preliminary exploration of the cooling effect of tree shade in urban landscapes. International Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation, 92, 102161.
Cited by: 85

5 Sun, Z., Luo, J., Yang, J., Yu, Q., Zhang, L., Xue, K., & Lu, L. (2020). Nation-scale mapping of coastal aquaculture ponds with Sentinel-1 SAR data using Google Earth Engine. Remote Sensing, 12(18), 3086.
Cited by: 85

Dr. Qiuyan Yu’s research advances global understanding of vegetation dynamics, land-use change, and climate–ecosystem interactions. Her work provides critical insights for sustainable environmental management, guiding policies that balance ecological resilience with human development in a changing world.

Dhekra Ben Amara | Circular Economy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Dhekra Ben Amara | Circular Economy | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Qingdao Hengxing University of Science and Technology | China

Dr. Dhekra Ben Amara is an accomplished Associate Professor at Qingdao Hengxing University of Science and Technology, China, and a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Geography and Environmental Science at Henan University, with expertise in Agricultural and Environmental Economics. She earned her Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics and Management from Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China; an M.Sc. in Economy of Agriculture, Agri-food, and Environment; and an Engineering degree in Agricultural and Agri-food Economics and Management from the National Agronomic Institute of Tunisia, in addition to a Diploma in Biology–Geology Engineering Studies from the Faculty of Sciences of Tunis. Dr. Ben Amara’s academic journey reflects her deep commitment to sustainability science, eco-innovation, and green growth. Her research focuses on the intersections of climate change, circular economy, environmental policy, and green finance, using advanced econometric modeling to identify pathways for sustainable development. She has published extensively in leading journals, including Journal of Cleaner Production, Sustainable Development, Environment, Development and Sustainability, and Journal of Environmental Management. Beyond research, she has contributed to international projects such as the China–Tunisia collaboration on biomass valorization and bio-circular economy models. Her professional achievements include serving as a Reviewing Editor with Springer Nature Reviewer Communities and receiving multiple honors, such as the Best Researcher Award in Environmental Science and the Outstanding Graduate Award from Northeast Forestry University. Demonstrating strong academic influence and research productivity, Dr. Ben Amara has achieved 248 citations, 13 indexed documents, and an h-index of 8.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Ben Amara, D., & Chen, H. (2020). A mediation–moderation model of environmental and eco-innovation orientation for sustainable business growth. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 27(14), 16916–16928.

2. Ben Amara, D., & Chen, H. (2022). Driving factors for eco-innovation orientation: Meeting sustainable growth in Tunisian agribusiness. International Entrepreneurship and Management Journal, 18(2), 713–732.

3. Ben Amara, D., & Qiao, J. (2023). From economic growth to inclusive green growth: How do carbon emissions, eco-innovation, and international collaboration develop economic growth and tackle climate change? Journal of Cleaner Production, 425, 138986.

4. Ben Amara, D., & Chen, H. (2020). Investigating the effect of multidimensional network capability and eco-innovation orientation for sustainable performance. Clean Technologies and Environmental Policy, 22(6), 1297–1309. 0

5. Ben Amara, D., & Chen, H. (2021). The impact of participative decision-making on eco-innovation capability: The mediating role of motivational eco-innovation factors. Environment, Development and Sustainability, 23(5), 6966–6986.

Hailu Shiferaw Desta | Greening Impacts | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hailu Shiferaw Desta | Greening Impacts | Best Researcher Award

Hailu Shiferaw Desta | Water and Land Resource Center | Ethiopia

Dr. Hailu Shiferaw Desta is an accomplished Ecosystem Specialist at the Water and Land Resource Center, Addis Ababa University, recognized for his expertise in environment and natural resource management. He holds a Ph.D. in Geography specializing in Environment and Natural Resource Management from Addis Ababa University, an M.Sc. in Environment focusing on GIS and Remote Sensing from Wageningen University in the Netherlands, an M.Sc. in Biology with a focus on Plant Ecology, and a B.Sc. in Biology from Addis Ababa University. With extensive experience in academia and applied research, he has played leading roles in national and international projects such as the R4D Woody Weeds, Payment for Ecosystem Services, Landscape Restoration, Basin Development and Transformation (BRIGHT), and Green Transition initiatives. His collaborations with global institutions including the World Resources Institute, International Institute of Sustainable Development, and CABI International have advanced the use of geospatial technologies, nature-based solutions, and sustainable land management practices across Ethiopia. Dr. Hailu’s research focuses on land use dynamics, ecosystem services, climate adaptation, and invasive species management, contributing to evidence-based policymaking and environmental governance. He has authored more than thirty publications in prestigious journals such as Nature-Based Solutions, Scientific Reports, Science of The Total Environment, and Ecological Indicators, with his findings influencing restoration strategies and conservation policies. A dedicated mentor and trainer, he has conducted numerous capacity-building programs in GIS, spatial analysis, and environmental planning for professionals and institutions. His work integrates science, innovation, and community engagement to enhance ecosystem resilience and promote sustainable development. With 1,811 citations, an h-index of 18, and an i10-index of 21, Dr. Hailu Shiferaw Desta stands as a leading scholar and practitioner in environmental research and sustainability.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publication

1. Linders, T. E. W., Schaffner, U., Eschen, R., Abebe, A., Choge, S. K., Nigatu, L., et al. (2019). Direct and indirect effects of invasive species: Biodiversity loss is a major mechanism by which an invasive tree affects ecosystem functioning. Journal of Ecology, 107(6), 2660–2672.

2. Shiferaw, H., Teketay, D., Nemomissa, S., & Assefa, F. (2004). Some biological characteristics that foster the invasion of Prosopis juliflora (SW.) DC at Middle Awash Rift Valley Area, north-eastern Ethiopia. Journal of Arid Environments, 58(2), 135–154.

3. Shiferaw, H., Bewket, W., Alamirew, T., Zeleke, G., Teketay, D., Bekele, K., et al. (2019). Implications of land use/land cover dynamics and Prosopis invasion on ecosystem service values in Afar Region, Ethiopia. Science of the Total Environment, 675, 354–366.

4. Shiferaw, H., Bewket, W., & Eckert, S. (2019). Performances of machine learning algorithms for mapping fractional cover of an invasive plant species in a dryland ecosystem. Ecology and Evolution, 9, 2562–2574.

 

Nursaya Makayeva | Carbon Capture and Storage | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nursaya Makayeva | Carbon Capture and Storage | Best Researcher Award

Senior Researcher | Institute of Combustion Problems | Kazakhstan

Nursaya Makayeva is a dynamic educator and analytical chemist from Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, specializing in research and development, quality control, and advanced analytical methods. With several years of experience in academic and research settings, she has contributed significantly to the fields of catalysis, methane decomposition, and sustainable energy solutions. Her expertise bridges both teaching and applied research, making her a valuable contributor to the scientific community.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education

Nursaya Makayeva pursued her higher education at Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, where she completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemistry. She continued her academic journey by enrolling in a doctoral program, deepening her expertise in catalysis and advanced chemical processes. Alongside her formal academic qualifications, she gained practical research experience through internships at the Center of Physico-Chemical Methods of Research and Analysis of Al-Farabi KazNU and at the Republican Center for Structural Research in Tbilisi, Georgia. These opportunities enriched her academic foundation by combining theoretical learning with hands-on laboratory practice.

Experience

Her professional career combines teaching, research, and practical application. As an educator, she designed engaging curricula and provided academic support that fostered student growth. In research, she served as a junior researcher at institutions such as the Institute of Combustion Problems and the Center of Physico-Chemical Methods of Research and Analysis, focusing on experimental design, catalytic systems, and advanced laboratory analysis. Skilled in techniques like chromatography, voltammetry, and TPR-H2, she applied these methods to produce reliable scientific outcomes. Her collaborations with senior researchers, contributions to R&D projects, and participation in international conferences further highlight her growing role in the global scientific community.

Research Focus

Nursaya’s primary research interests lie in catalysis, hydrogen production, and carbon utilization, with a particular emphasis on methane decomposition processes. Her studies explore the development and optimization of catalysts, including mono- and bimetallic systems, for efficient energy conversion. She has also investigated the effects of preparation methods and the incorporation of rare earth oxides, such as cerium, on catalyst performance. Her recent contributions extend to sustainable solutions in carbon dioxide utilization, where she has co-authored review studies on catalytic, photocatalytic, and electrocatalytic processes for CO₂ conversion. By addressing the intersection of renewable energy, environmental protection, and advanced materials, her research supports global efforts toward cleaner energy systems and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Advancements in catalytic, photocatalytic, and electrocatalytic CO₂ conversion processes: Current trends and future outlook
Year: 2024

Title: Effects of cerium oxide on the activity of Fe-Ni/Al₂O₃ catalyst in the decomposition of methane
Year: 2024

Title: Electrochemical synthesis of Fe-containing composite for decomposition of methane into COx-free hydrogen and nano-carbon
Year: 2022

Title: Effect of Preparation Method on the Activity of Fe₂O₃-NiO/γ-Al₂O₃ Catalyst in Decomposition of Methane
Year: 2022

Conclusion

Nursaya Makayeva exemplifies the qualities of an emerging leader in chemistry, combining strong academic foundations with impactful research and practical applications. Her dedication to advancing catalytic science, her ability to merge teaching with high-quality research, and her collaborative approach to scientific problem-solving highlight her as a deserving candidate for recognition. Through her contributions to methane decomposition, hydrogen production, and carbon dioxide utilization, she has positioned herself at the forefront of sustainable energy research. Her growing body of publications, active participation in international collaborations, and innovative patent demonstrate her potential to continue shaping the field of chemistry with lasting impact.

Birhanu Werku | Environmental Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Birhanu Werku | Environmental Sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer and Researcher at Wollega University, Ethiopia

Birhanu Chalcisa Werku is an accomplished academic, researcher, and administrator serving as Research, Community Engagement, and Industry Linkage Associate Dean at Wollega University, College of Agriculture. With expertise spanning agriculture, ecology, water resources, wetlands, agroforestry, air quality, and environmental health, he has established himself as a versatile scholar contributing both to scientific research and to the development of local communities. His career is marked by impactful publications, interdisciplinary collaborations, and leadership roles that highlight his commitment to advancing sustainable development in Ethiopia and beyond.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile

Education

Birhanu’s academic foundation reflects a clear dedication to rural development, environmental science, and sustainable practices. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Rural Development and Family Science from Hawassa University, where he developed a strong grounding in agricultural systems, rural livelihoods, and community-based approaches to development. He further pursued a Master’s degree in Environmental Science and Technology at Jimma University, where his training integrated environmental sustainability with practical problem-solving in water resources, agroecology, and natural resource management. His educational journey equipped him with advanced knowledge of both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, project design, feasibility assessments, and training needs evaluation, all of which have informed his subsequent academic and professional endeavors.

Experience

Birhanu began his career as a lecturer and later took on leadership responsibilities at Wollega University, where he served as Head of the Department of Rural Development and Agricultural Extension. In this capacity, he worked to strengthen curriculum development, mentor students, and engage faculty in collaborative research initiatives. His leadership experience expanded when he assumed the role of Associate Dean for Research, Community Engagement, and Industry Linkage, a position that has allowed him to bridge the gap between academia, local communities, and industry stakeholders. In this role, he has been instrumental in designing and overseeing projects that address pressing challenges such as food security, water management, climate resilience, and community capacity building. His work reflects a balance of academic rigor and practical application, ensuring that research outcomes are translated into real-world impact.

Research Focus

Birhanu’s research agenda is broad yet interconnected, addressing key issues in agriculture, environment, and public health. His studies on wetlands and watershed dynamics provide valuable insights into sustainable land use and water resource management. His investigations into agroforestry and indigenous knowledge systems emphasize the importance of traditional practices in ensuring food security and ecological balance. Additionally, his research on air quality and public health highlights the environmental dimensions of human well-being, advancing evidence-based strategies for sustainable urban and rural development. He is also deeply engaged in climate change research, particularly focusing on agricultural emissions and their role in shaping mitigation strategies aligned with global sustainability goals. Collectively, his work demonstrates a consistent effort to link environmental stewardship with social development.

Publication Top Note

Title: Impact of agricultural emissions on Goal 13 of the Sustainable Development Agenda: An East African Strategy for Climate Action
Authors: Birhanu Chalcisa Werku et al.
Summary: This study analyzes agricultural emissions in East Africa, proposing sustainable strategies to mitigate climate impacts and advance global climate action.

Conclusion

Birhanu Chalcisa Werku’s career exemplifies the integration of teaching, research, and community engagement. His educational background and professional roles at Wollega University have positioned him as both a scholar and a leader. Through his publications, he has advanced knowledge in areas critical to sustainable development, including wetlands, agroforestry, food safety, and air quality. His interdisciplinary focus connects ecological systems with human development, ensuring that his work remains relevant to both local communities and broader global challenges. By linking academic research with practical application, Birhanu has made significant contributions to the pursuit of sustainable agriculture, environmental management, and public health. His leadership, research productivity, and commitment to community development make him a strong and deserving candidate for recognition through this award.

Xiaoliang Li | Micro Plastic | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiaoliang Li | Micro Plastic | Best Researcher Award

Associate Chief Physician at The Third People’s of Zhuhai, China

Dr. Xiaoliang Li is an accomplished physician-scientist whose career bridges clinical excellence, research innovation, and academic leadership. Serving as Associate Chief Physician at Zhuhai Third People’s Hospital and Deputy Director of the Clinical Translation Center, he has developed a reputation for advancing preventive medicine and occupational health through rigorous clinical practice, impactful research, and knowledge dissemination. His professional affiliations, leadership roles in national and provincial health committees, and contributions as an editorial reviewer for leading international journals highlight his recognition as a trusted expert. With a strong foundation in preventive medicine and ongoing doctoral research in public health and preventive medicine, Dr. Li continues to integrate clinical expertise with cutting-edge scientific inquiry to address pressing health challenges.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education

Dr. Li’s educational journey demonstrates his consistent commitment to excellence and innovation in medicine and public health. He began his academic career with a Bachelor of Science in Preventive Medicine from Hebei University, where he developed a solid foundation in disease prevention, epidemiology, and occupational health. Building on this, he pursued a Master of Science in Occupational and Environmental Health at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, which allowed him to deepen his expertise in environmental risk factors, workplace hazards, and their long-term health implications. His academic trajectory advanced further with his admission as a Ph.D. candidate in Public Health and Preventive Medicine at Huazhong University of Science and Technology, where he is investigating novel approaches to environmental and occupational health risks with an emphasis on translational medicine. This combination of progressive academic training has equipped him with the knowledge and research capacity to make sustained contributions to both theoretical and applied aspects of preventive medicine.

Experience

Dr. Li’s professional career is distinguished by a dual focus on clinical practice and research translation. At Zhuhai Third People’s Hospital, he holds the position of Associate Chief Physician, where he integrates evidence-based medicine with patient care in complex occupational and environmental health cases. His leadership extends to serving as Deputy Director of the Clinical Translation Center, a role that emphasizes his capacity to bridge laboratory discoveries with clinical applications. His expertise has been further recognized through appointments to multiple influential committees, including the Medical Ergonomics Committee of the Chinese Ergonomics Society, the Occupational Health and Engineering Evaluation Committee of the Guangdong Occupational Health Association, and the Guangdong Biomedical Engineering Society. In addition, he contributes to policy and practice as an expert in the Guangdong Prisoner Medical Evaluation Expert Database and as a health science popularization expert for the Zhuhai Municipal Health Bureau. Through these roles, he has helped shape policies, standards, and practices that promote both occupational safety and public health.

Research Focus

Dr. Li’s research contributions are at the intersection of occupational health, environmental exposures, and translational medicine. He has been actively engaged in national and regional research grants, serving as both principal investigator and co-investigator. His work under the National Natural Science Foundation of China explores the role of circular RNAs, particularly circCATE, in regulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway during bronchial epithelial carcinogenesis in COPD induced by B(a)P exposure. This research provides critical insights into the molecular mechanisms linking environmental pollutants to chronic respiratory diseases. As principal investigator, he has led innovative projects funded by the Zhuhai Science and Technology Bureau, focusing on the role of marine, gut, and skin microbiomes in dermatophytosis among coastal populations. Additionally, his funded projects include occupational hazard characterization in new energy vehicle battery production and studies on pyrethroid exposure related to oxidative stress and male reproductive health. Collectively, these projects reflect his broad yet integrated research focus on the health impacts of environmental and occupational exposures, advancing knowledge that informs prevention, diagnosis, and clinical intervention.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Microplastics in the Lung Tissues Associated with Blood Test Index
Authors: Shuguang Wang, Wenfeng Lu, Qingdong Cao, Changli Tu, Chenghui Zhong, Lan Qiu, Saifeng Li, Han Zhang, Meiqi Lan, Liqiu Qiu, Xiaoliang Li, et al.
Journal: Toxics
Summary: Study reveals microplastics present in human lung tissues, correlating with blood test indicators, highlighting significant health implications from environmental exposure.

Title: Association of Shift-Work, Daytime Napping, and Nighttime Sleep with Cancer Incidence and Cancer-Caused Mortality in Dongfeng-Tongji Cohort Study
Authors: Xiaoliang Li et al.
Journal: Annals of Medicine
Summary: Large cohort study demonstrates associations between shift-work, sleep patterns, and elevated cancer incidence and mortality, emphasizing occupational and lifestyle health risks.

Title: Association of Body Mass Index with Chromosome Damage Levels and Lung Cancer Risk among Males
Authors: Xiaoliang Li et al.
Journal: Scientific Reports
Summary: Research links higher body mass index with increased chromosome damage and lung cancer risk, underscoring biological mechanisms of obesity-related carcinogenesis.

Title: The Interaction of APEX1 Variant with Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons on Increasing Chromosome Damage and Lung Cancer Risk among Male Chinese
Authors: Xiaoliang Li et al.
Journal: Molecular Carcinogenesis
Summary: Study identifies synergistic effects of APEX1 genetic variant and environmental hydrocarbon exposure, heightening chromosome damage and lung cancer susceptibility in males.

Conclusion

Dr. Xiaoliang Li exemplifies the integration of clinical expertise, research innovation, and academic leadership. His career is marked by substantial contributions to preventive medicine, occupational health, and environmental health, with a strong record of high-impact publications, funded projects, and intellectual property. As an educator, mentor, and reviewer for prestigious journals, he continues to influence scientific discourse and policy development. His leadership in national committees and public health initiatives underscores his dedication to improving population health and workplace safety. With his unique combination of clinical practice, translational research, and academic engagement, Dr. Li stands as a highly deserving candidate for this award, reflecting a career dedicated to advancing medical science and public well-being.

Teodora Daneva | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Teodora Daneva | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Teodora Daneva, Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgaria

Dr. Teodora Daneva (b. 04 November 1968, Troyan, Bulgaria) is a distinguished Bulgarian biologist and physiologist, internationally recognized for her groundbreaking research in endocrinology, reproductive immunology, and molecular diagnostics. With over two decades of scientific excellence, she has bridged collaborations across Austria, Turkey, and Egypt, advancing research in diabetes, reproductive biology, and biotechnology. Dr. Daneva serves as an Associate Professor of Human and Animal Physiology at the Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, where her passion for scientific discovery and translational medicine continues to inspire the next generation of researchers.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile

ORCID

🏆 Strengths for the Award

  • Extensive Research Experience:
    Teodora Daneva demonstrates more than two decades of experience in biomedical and reproductive research, especially in endocrinology, diabetes, and reproductive physiology. Her active roles in international collaborative projects with Austria, Turkey, and Egypt highlight her global scientific engagement.

  • Interdisciplinary Contributions:
    Her work spans molecular biology, immunology, endocrinology, animal physiology, and biotechnology, as evident in her publications on calcium-binding proteins, diabetes biomarkers, reproductive health, and genetic polymorphisms.

  • Project Leadership:
    She has served as a project coordinator or senior researcher in multiple cross-national research collaborations, such as:

    • Bulgaria–Austria: Theranostic agents in breast cancer, and SCGN biomarker research.

    • Bulgaria–Egypt: Animal reproduction under stress, semen extender innovation.

    • Bulgaria–Turkey: Early sex determination in hen embryos.

  • Scientific Publications & Impact:
    Her work includes peer-reviewed Q1 publications in high-impact journals like the International Journal of Molecular Sciences and Int J Mol Sci. Publications on CRISPR, diabetes, and endocrinology demonstrate a wide scientific scope and contemporary relevance.

  • Teaching and Mentoring:
    Active as an Associate Professor and university lecturer, Daneva contributes to academic development by teaching subjects like pharmacogenetics and guiding students in biology and chemistry.

  • Innovative Research Themes:
    Topics like 3D-bioprinting of islets, theranostic cancer treatment, and Kombucha extract biotechnology show her openness to innovation and novel scientific approaches.

🎓 Education

Dr. Daneva’s academic journey reflects her deep-rooted commitment to life sciences. She earned her PhD in Biology from the University of Vienna (2004), specializing in endocrinology and beta-cell calcium signaling. She previously completed an MSc in Biology at Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski” in 1995 and is an alumna of Vassil Drumev High School, Shumen, where her scientific interests first took shape.

🧬 Experience

Dr. Teodora Daneva has cultivated a rich and dynamic career in biomedical science and education, demonstrating leadership and versatility across academic, clinical, and international research settings. Since 2013, she has held the position of Associate Professor of Human and Animal Physiology at the Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. In this role, she has led numerous scientific investigations and mentored young researchers in physiology and immunobiology.

🧪 Research Focus On Biology

Dr. Daneva’s research lies at the intersection of neuroendocrinology, immunobiology, and translational physiology. Her work has profoundly contributed to our understanding of calcium-binding proteins such as Secretagogin in diabetes, polymorphisms in immune markers (IP-10/CXCL10), and the molecular pathways underlying reproductive and metabolic disorders. More recently, her research explores 3D bioprinting of islets for diabetes treatment, sperm cryopreservation technologies, and theranostic agents for breast cancer — blending molecular biology with cutting-edge applications in biotechnology.

📚 Publications Top Notes

Title: Crystal Structure and Properties of Thallium(I) Salinomycinate
Authors: Petkov, N.; Dorkov, P.; Ugrinov, A.; Encheva, E.; Abrashev, M.; Zasheva, D.; Daneva, T.; Pantcheva, I.N.
Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
DOI: 10.3390/ijms26136504
Summary: This landmark study presents the first detailed crystallographic analysis of Thallium(I) Salinomycinate, a novel metal–ion complex with potential theranostic applications in oncology. Using X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, and thermal analysis, the authors elucidated the structural arrangement, stability profile, and bioactive properties of the compound.

Title: Effects of Late Gestational Fetal Exposure to Dexamethasone Administration on the Postnatal Hypothalamus–Pituitary–Adrenal Axis Response to Hypoglycemia in Pigs
Authors: Schiffner, R.; Rodríguez-González, G.L.; Rakers, F.; Nistor, M.; Nathanielsz, P.W.; Daneva, T.; Schwab, M.; Lehmann, T.; Schmidt, M.
Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
DOI: 10.3390/ijms18112241
Summary: In this interdisciplinary publication, the authors explore how prenatal exposure to synthetic glucocorticoids (specifically dexamethasone) during late gestation affects neuroendocrine stress responses in postnatal life. Using a neonatal pig model — physiologically similar to humans in endocrine development — the study demonstrated that such prenatal exposure impairs the hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, reducing the organism’s ability to mount a robust response to hypoglycemic stress after birth.

🏁 Conclusion

Dr. Teodora Daneva is a pillar in Bulgaria’s biomedical research community, combining profound scientific acumen with an unrelenting commitment to translational impact. Her research has pushed the frontiers of reproductive immunology, diabetes, and molecular diagnostics, making her an inspiring nominee for any prestigious scientific award. Fluent in both lab and classroom, she brings science to life — in cells, in clinics, and in young minds. 🌟