Afagh Alavi| Neurodegenerative | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Afagh Alavi| Neurodegenerative | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr.Afagh Alavi, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Iran, 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Afagh Alavi is a highly accomplished researcher and educator in the field of genetics. Her research contributions in neurodegenerative diseases, muscular dystrophies, and genetic infertility are groundbreaking, with significant potential for improving diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Her leadership in large-scale, interdisciplinary research projects demonstrates her capability as a principal investigator. Furthermore, her commitment to teaching and mentoring the next generation of scientists ensures the continuity of high-quality research in her field.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Educational :

Dr. Afagh Alavi holds an MSc in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Tehran, Iran, completed between 2005 and 2007. She further pursued a Ph.D. in Cellular and Molecular Biology at the same university, which she completed from 2008 to 2013. Following her doctoral studies, Dr. Alavi worked as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Tehran from 2014 to 2015.

Experience:

Dr. Alavi began her academic career as a Teacher of Biology in various high schools across Iran, where she taught for 16 years (1997-2013). She then transitioned to the University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences (USWR), Tehran, where she served as an Assistant Professor from 2015 to 2021. In 2021, she was promoted to Associate Professor, a position she currently holds. Additionally, Dr. Alavi has been teaching courses in Genetics, Cancer Genetics, and Bioinformatics at USWR since 2014

Skills:

Dr. Alavi possesses a wealth of expertise in various genetic techniques, including SNP genotyping, whole exome sequencing (WES), gene editing (CRISPR/Cas9), linkage analysis, RNA sequencing, and bioinformatics. She has experience in research management, serving as both a Principal Investigator (PI) and Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI) in several genetic research projects. Furthermore, Dr. Alavi is an experienced educator, having taught both undergraduate and postgraduate students in genetics, molecular biology, and bioinformatics. She is fluent in English.

Awards & Fellowships:

Dr. Alavi has made significant contributions to the understanding of neurogenetic disorders and infertility. She has participated as a Co-PI in multiple large-scale research projects focused on ALS, hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), and other neurodegenerative conditions. As a PI, she has led successful research projects that identified causative genes in disorders such as FSHD and primary ovarian failure (POF). Dr. Alavi has collaborated with prestigious institutions, including the Iranian National Science Foundation (INSF) and the University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, to support her research endeavors.

Research Focus:

Dr. Alavi’s primary research interests lie within Human Genetics and Neurodegenerative Disorders, with a special focus on genetic approaches to understanding rare diseases. She investigates various neurodegenerative conditions, including Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP), Neurodegeneration with Brain Iron Accumulation (NBIA), Parkinson’s disease, neuropathies, and muscular dystrophies. Additionally, she explores the genetic causes of infertility, particularly primary ovarian failure (POF), and uses cutting-edge techniques such as SNP genotyping, WES, and RNA sequencing to identify disease-causing genes.

 

Publication Top Notes:

  • Three Iranian patients with rare subtypes of hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP): SPG76, SPG56, and SPG69
    • Citation: Sadr, Z., Ghasemi, A., Rohani, M., Mohammadi, Y., Alavi, A.
    • Journal: Neurogenetics
    • Year: 2025
    • Volume: 26(1)
    • Page(s): 12
  • A new genetic variant, presenting as young onset rapidly progressive dementia and parkinsonism
    • Citation: Eissazade, N., Alavi, A., Lang, A.E., Emamikhah, M., Khoeini, T.
    • Journal: Parkinsonism and Related Disorders
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 127
    • Article ID: 105849
  • Atypical presentations in an RTD patient and report of novel SLC52A3 and SLC52A2 mutations
    • Citation: Sabeghi, D., InanlooRahatloo, K., Mirzadeh, H.S., Nafissi, S., Elahi, E.
    • Journal: Acta Neurologica Belgica
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 124(4)
    • Pages: 1363–1370
  • JAM2 variants can be more common in primary familial brain calcification (PFBC) cases than those appear; may be due to a founder mutation
    • Citation: Khojasteh, M., Soleimani, P., Ghasemi, A., Rohani, M., Alavi, A.
    • Journal: Neurological Sciences
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 45(8)
    • Pages: 3829–3844
  • Corrigendum to “NMNAT1 and hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP): Expanding the phenotypic spectrum of NMNAT1 variants”
    • Citation: Sadr, Z., Ghasemi, A., Rohani, M., Alavi, A.
    • Journal: Neuromuscular Disorders
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 35
    • Page(s): e1
  • A novel homozygous variant in the MCOLN1 gene associated with severe oromandibular dystonia and Parkinsonism
    • Citation: Ghasemi, A., Eslami Ardakani, M., Togha, M., Rohani, M., Alavi, A.
    • Journal: Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences
    • Year: 2024
    • Status: Article in Press
  • Estimation of Ambulation and Survival in Neurodegeneration with Brain Iron Accumulation Disorders
    • Citation: Amini, E., Rohani, M., Lang, A.E., Emamikhah, M., Chitsaz, A.
    • Journal: Movement Disorders Clinical Practice
    • Year: 2024
    • Volume: 11(1)
    • Pages: 53–62

Conclusions:

Dr. Alavi’s extensive body of work and ongoing contributions make her a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her strengths in leadership, innovation, and research quality far outweigh any areas that may require improvement. Expanding her international network and public outreach could further elevate her already impressive career

Komal Bansal| Mathematics | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Komal Bansal| Mathematics | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Komal Bansal, Dev Samaj College for Women, Affiliated to Panjab University Chandigarh, India, 

Nigora M. Ghoyibova is an educator and researcher specializing in English language teaching and educational methodologies. With a Bachelor’s in International Journalism and a Master’s in English Linguistics from the Uzbek State World Languages University, she is currently a PhD student at the Tashkent Institute of Irrigation and Agricultural Mechanization Engineers. Her professional roles include teacher, trainer, and regional mentor for various educational programs. She has presented at international conferences and holds certifications from TESOL and the British Council. Fluent in Uzbek, Russian, and English, Nigora is dedicated to advancing educational research. 📚🌍🎓

Publication Profile

Orcid

 Experience:

Dr. Komal Bansal has approximately 10 years of teaching experience at various esteemed institutions. She is currently serving as a faculty member at Dev Samaj College for Women, Chandigarh, affiliated with Panjab University, Chandigarh, for over 6 years. Additionally, she has taught at Panjab Engineering College (PEC), the Department of Mathematics at Panjab University, and the Department of Evening Studies at Panjab University.

Educational :

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Mathematics (Numerical Analysis)
Centre for Advanced Study in Mathematics, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India, 2017.
Awarded Junior and Senior Research Fellowship by the University Grants Commission (UGC), India.
Thesis Title: Numerical Analysis of Singularly Perturbed Parabolic Partial Differential-Difference Equations.,Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Mathematics,Panjab University, Chandigarh, India, 2009 (First Division, 2nd Position in Class).

Awards & Fellowships:

Nigora M. Ghoyibova has pursued numerous professional development opportunities to enhance her teaching skills. She earned the TESOL International Certificate from the American Council, sponsored by the U.S. Embassy (2022–2023). She participated in the British Council OTC Program (2022) and completed the Online Professional English Network TESOL Methodology program (2022), also sponsored by the U.S. Embassy. Additionally, Nigora was a Community Leader for the Open Community of Practice (2023) and completed the American Council TETE Cascading Program (2022). These certifications reflect her commitment to continuous learning and excellence in teaching. 🎓🌐📜

Research Focus:

Dr. Bansal’s research primarily focuses on Numerical Analysis, Singular Perturbation Theory, Finite Difference Methods, and Non-Standard Finite Difference Methods. Her research also extends to Differential-Difference Equations and Differential Equations, with an emphasis on the numerical treatment of singularly perturbed parabolic partial differential-difference equations.

Publication Top Notes:

  • Garima Komal Bansal, Kapil K. Sharma
    • Title: A parameter uniform numerical method for 2D singularly perturbed elliptic differential-difference equations
    • Year: 2024
    • DOI

 

  • Komal Bansal, Kapil K. Sharma, Aditya Kaushik, Gajendra Babu (First Author)
    • Title: Numerical analysis of singularly perturbed parabolic partial reaction diffusion differential difference equations
    • Year: 2024
    • DOI

 

  • Gajendra Babu, Kapil K. Sharma, Komal Bansal (Corresponding Author)
    • Title: A higher order compact numerical approach for singularly perturbed parabolic problems with retarded term
    • Year: 2024
    • DOI

 

  • Gajendra Babu, Komal Bansal (Corresponding Author)
    • Title: A high order robust numerical scheme for singularly perturbed delay parabolic convection diffusion problems
    • Year: 2022
    • DOI

 

  • Komal Bansal, Kapil K. Sharma (First Author)
    • Title: A high order robust numerical scheme for the generalized Stein’s model of neuronal variability
    • Year: 2021
    • DOI

 

  • Komal Bansal, Kapil K. Sharma (First Author)
    • Title: epsilon-Uniform numerical technique for the class of time dependent singularly perturbed parabolic problems with state dependent retarded argument arising from generalized Stein’s model of neuronal variability
    • Year: 2019
    • DOI

 

  • Komal Bansal, Kapil K. Sharma (First Author)
    • Title: Parameter-robust numerical scheme for time dependent singularly perturbed reaction-diffusion problem with large delay
    • Year: 2018
    • DOI

 

  • Komal Bansal, Kapil K. Sharma (First Author)
    • Title: Parameter uniform numerical scheme for time dependent singularly perturbed convection-diffusion-reaction problems with general shift arguments
    • Year: 2017
    • DOI

 

  • Komal Bansal, Pratima Rai, Kapil K. Sharma (First Author)
    • Title: Numerical treatment for the class of time dependent singularly perturbed parabolic problems with general shift arguments
    • Journal: Differential Equations and Dynamical Systems
    • Year: 2017
    • DOI

 

  • Komal Bansal, Kapil K. Sharma (First Author)
    • Title: An o (n-1 lnN) 4 parameter uniform difference method for singularly perturbed differential-difference equations
    • Journal: In Mathematical Analysis and its Applications
    • Year: 2015
    • DOI

Conclusions:

Dr. Komal Bansal is highly deserving of the “Best Researcher Award.” Her deep knowledge, substantial teaching experience, and proven research achievements make her an excellent candidate. However, expanding her research collaborations, increasing publication output, and venturing into interdisciplinary research could further strengthen her already impressive profile.

Jawad Boutarfass | Mathematics | Best Researcher Award

Jawad Boutarfass | Mathematics | Best Researcher Award

Mr Jawad Boutarfass, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Université Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah, Fès, Morocco

Jawad Boutarfass is a dedicated Ph.D. student in Mathematics at the Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, University Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah in Fès, Morocco. He holds a Master’s in Pure Mathematics and a Bachelor’s in Mathematical Sciences from the Faculty of Sciences Dhar El Mahraz. Jawad has also taught various mathematics courses, including Algebra 1 and Mathematics 1, at the university level. His research focuses on functional equations and generalized derivations in quasi-Banach algebras, with notable publications in journals like Rendiconti del Circolo Matematico di Palermo and Bulletin of Mathematical Sciences. 📚🔢✍️

Publication Profile

Scopus

Educational Background 

Mr. Jawad Boutarfass has a strong educational background, with degrees in Mathematics from esteemed institutions. He holds a Master’s in Pure Mathematics, a Bachelor’s in Mathematics and Applications, and a Baccalaureate in Mathematics. His academic journey reflects a deep commitment to the field, progressing into doctoral studies in Mathematics to further his expertise. Mr. Boutarfass’s dedication to advancing mathematical knowledge showcases his passion for the discipline and his pursuit of excellence. 📚✨🎓🔢

Experience 

Mr. Jawad Boutarfass is a dedicated part-time instructor at the University of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah in Fès. He teaches “Algebra 1” in the first semester for students in Electrical Engineering and Embedded Systems, as well as Mathematics and Data Science. Additionally, he teaches “Mathematics 1” for Economics students in the first semester. His role spans across two faculties: the Faculty of Science and Technology and the Faculty of Law, Economics, and Social Sciences. Mr. Boutarfass is committed to providing quality education and shaping the academic journey of his students. 📚🔢💻🎓

Research Focus

Mr. Jawad Boutarfass is a researcher focused on mathematical concepts, particularly in the area of quasi-Banach algebras and generalized derivations. His work explores approximation methods and their applications within algebraic structures. In collaboration with his colleagues, he contributes to advanced research in the field of functional analysis and algebraic systems, publishing extensively in mathematical journals such as Rendiconti del Circolo Matematico di Palermo. His research aids in understanding complex algebraic theories, advancing both theoretical and practical knowledge. 🔢📐🔍

Publication Top Notes

Correction: Approximation of generalized derivation in quasi-Banach algebras (Rendiconti del Circolo Matematico di Palermo Series 2, (2024), 73, 7, (2447-2461), 10.1007/s12215-024-01042-2)

Approximation of generalized derivation in quasi-Banach algebras

Deonarain Brijlall | Mathematics | Excellence in Research

Deonarain Brijlall | Mathematics | Excellence in Research

Prof Deonarain Brijlall, Durban University of Technology, South Africa

Prof. Brijlall Deonarain is a distinguished academic in Mathematics Education at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), South Africa. With a B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Mathematics (Topology), a PhD in Mathematics, and extensive postdoctoral training, Prof. Deonarain has dedicated his career to enhancing mathematics teaching. He has held various academic leadership roles, including acting head of department and faculty representative. His research interests focus on mathematics education, curriculum development, and learning theories. Prof. Deonarain has published several influential papers, such as on optimization problem-solving and pre-service teachers’ mental constructions. He actively contributes to mathematics education through grants and academic conferences. 📚🔢🎓

Publication Profile

google scholar

Education

Prof. Brijlall Deonarain has a diverse and extensive academic background. He earned his B.Sc. in Mathematics and Applied Mathematics from the University of Durban-Westville (UDW), South Africa, in 1984, followed by a B.Sc. (Hons) in Mathematics in 1985. He also pursued studies in Education, obtaining a UHDE in 1986 and a B.Ed (Hons) from UNISA in 1989. His technical expertise is highlighted by a National Technical Diploma in Electronics from Sastri Technical College in 1992. Prof. Deonarain completed his M.Sc. in Mathematics (cum laude) at the University of Natal in 1999 and his Ph.D. in Mathematics (Topology) from UDW in 2003. 🎓

Honors

Prof. Brijlall Deonarain’s career spans several decades of dedicated service in mathematics and education. Beginning as a part-time lecturer at the University of Durban-Westville in 1985, he later joined Stanger Secondary School in 1986, earning recognition for his service. His academic roles expanded to lecturer positions at Springfield College of Education and University of Natal (now UKZN), where he contributed significantly to mathematics education. Prof. Deonarain held key leadership roles, including acting head of departments and faculty representative. He was nominated as an evaluator for the Higher Education Quality Committee and participated in an Oxford Roundtable in 2008. 🌟📘

Research Support

Prof. Brijlall Deonarain led a project titled “A Real Analysis Module for FET BEd Graduates,” conducted between 2005 and 2012, in collaboration with Prof. A. Maharaj. The project explored the relevance of an undergraduate Mathematics module to the new FET curriculum. It focused on three objectives: researching the alignment of Real Analysis with FET school topics, testing a novel pedagogical approach for presenting the course, and analyzing student responses using learning theories. The research led to two SAPSE-accredited journal papers in 2011. Prof. Deonarain also contributed to an ongoing project with Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University and Witwatersrand University, developing innovative calculus teaching materials for teachers. 🧑‍🏫📊

Research Focus

Dr. D. Brijlall’s research primarily focuses on mathematics education and teacher education, particularly in the context of high school and pre-service teachers. His work explores the mental constructions of learners and teachers, investigating how they approach complex mathematical concepts like optimization, matrix algebra, and problem-solving. He uses frameworks like APOS theory (Action, Process, Object, and Schema) to study the understanding of abstract mathematical concepts. Dr. Brijlall’s research also delves into pedagogical content knowledge, especially for teaching probability and mathematical problem-solving. 📚👩‍🏫🔢

Publication Top Notes

An exploration of the common content knowledge of high school mathematics teachers

Exploring high school learners’ mental construction during the solving of optimization

High school learners’ mental construction during solving optimisation problems in Calculus: A South African case study

Pre-service teachers’ mental constructions of concepts in matrix algebra

An APOS study on pre-service teachers’ understanding of injections and surjections

Exploring the stages of Polya’s problem-solving model during collaborative learning: A case of fractions

Exploring the pedagogical content knowledge for teaching probability in middle school: A South African case study

Using an inductive approach for definition making: Monotonicity and boundedness of sequences

Exploring support strategies for high school mathematics teachers from underachieving schools

 

 

 

Abdou Sène | Mathematics | Best Researcher Award

Abdou Sène | Mathematics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr Abdou Sène, Université numérique Cheikh Hamidou Kane, Senegal

Prof. Dr. Abdou Sène is a distinguished mathematician with a Ph.D. in Modeling and Control of Piezoelectric and Elastic Thin Plates from Joseph Fourier University, France. He specializes in applied mathematics, partial differential equations (PDE), and mathematical modeling. He has taught at various institutions, including Gaston Berger University and the Virtual University of Senegal, and has supervised numerous students. Prof. Sène has held leadership roles such as Head of the Applied Mathematics Department and Dean of the Faculty of Agronomic Sciences at UGB. His research spans mathematical modeling of epidemics, fluid dynamics, and control theory. 📚🔬🌍

Publication Profile

google scholar

Education

Prof. Dr. Abdou Sène is a distinguished academic with an extensive educational background. He earned his Ph.D. in Modeling and Control of Piezoelectric and Elastic Thin Plates from Joseph Fourier University, France, in 1999. Prior to this, he obtained his Post-graduate qualification in Applied Mathematics (1994) and a Master’s degree in Applied Mathematics (1993), both from the same institution. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Physics in 1993, also from Joseph Fourier University. Prof. Sène’s work continues to shape the field of applied mathematics and physics. 🌍📚

Teaching and Supervision 

Prof. Dr. Abdou Sène has been a dedicated educator in advanced mathematics since 1999, teaching topics such as Calculus, Mathematical Modeling, Functional Analysis, and Partial Differential Equations (PDE) at Gaston Berger University and the Virtual University of Senegal. His impact extends globally through international workshops and seminars, where he shares his expertise and mentors aspiring scholars. Prof. Sène’s commitment to education and the advancement of mathematical knowledge has made him a prominent figure in the academic community, inspiring future generations of mathematicians and researchers. 🌍✏️🎓

International Recognition 

Prof. Dr. Abdou Sène has made significant contributions to the academic community, particularly in applied mathematics. He has held leadership roles, including serving as the Head of the Applied Mathematics Department at Gaston Berger University. Additionally, he has been an Associate Professor at Laval University in Canada. His academic influence extends globally, as evidenced by his active involvement with esteemed international organizations such as ICTP (International Centre for Theoretical Physics) and CAMES (Conference of Ministers of Education of French-Speaking Countries). Prof. Sène’s dedication to advancing mathematics and international collaboration has earned him global recognition. 🌐🎓

Research Impact 

Prof. Dr. Abdou Sène’s research transcends theoretical mathematics, addressing real-world challenges with significant impact. His work in water resources management promotes sustainable agricultural practices, vital for the environment and food security. Additionally, his contributions to epidemic modeling play a crucial role in shaping public health policies, helping to mitigate health crises. By combining mathematical theory with practical applications, Prof. Sène’s research is making meaningful strides in tackling pressing issues such as environmental sustainability and public health. His interdisciplinary approach reflects a commitment to improving the world through science. 🌱💧

Research Focus

Prof. Dr. Abdou Sène’s research primarily focuses on mathematical modeling, with a particular emphasis on engineering and environmental sciences. His work includes the study of orthodontic anomalies, masticatory function, shallow-water models, piezoelectric materials, and ecological modeling, such as carbon stocks in tree biomass. He has contributed significantly to the development of mathematical frameworks to address biological, physical, and engineering phenomena. His diverse interests span from environmental science and ecology 🌍🌱, to advanced engineering applications like piezoelectric materials ⚡ and sedimentation models 🌊. He is a key figure in interdisciplinary research bridging mathematics with applied sciences. 📚👨‍🔬

Publication top notes

Relationship between orthodontic anomalies and masticatory function in adults

On some spurious mode issues in shallow-water models using a linear algebra approach

Modelling of piezoelectric static thin plates

Allometric equations and carbon stocks in tree biomass of Jatropha curcas L. in Senegal’s Peanut Basin

Global analysis of a schistosomiasis infection model with biological control

Modelling of piezoelectric plates including magnetic effects

Efficacy of different fungicides against mango anthracnose in Senegalese Soudanian agroclimate

Modélisation asymptotique de plaques: Contrôlabilité exacte frontière, piézoélectricité