Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Ghannoum | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Ghannoum | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Ghannoum, Case Western Reserve University and Universiy Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and BIOHM HEALTH LLC, United States

Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Ghannoum, renowned for his contributions in Health Professions, is affiliated with Case Western Reserve University, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, and BIOHM HEALTH LLC in the United States. His pioneering research focuses on microbiome dynamics and its impact on human health. Dr. Ghannoum’s work spans innovative approaches to understanding fungal communities and their therapeutic implications, shaping modern healthcare practices. With a distinguished career marked by groundbreaking discoveries, he continues to lead advancements in microbiology, fostering new insights into disease prevention and treatment. 🌿🔬 His collaborative efforts bridge academia and healthcare, paving the way for transformative medical solutions.

PROFILE 🌟
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EDUCATION 🎓

Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Ghannoum, based at the American University of Beirut, Lebanon, has a rich academic journey spanning multiple continents and disciplines. He earned his B.Sc. in 1973 from the American University of Beirut, followed by an M.Sc. and Ph.D. from Loughborough University of Technology, England, in 1974 and 1978, respectively. Dr. Ghannoum further enhanced his expertise with a Yeast Genetics Course at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratories in 1993. His commitment to leadership and management led him to complete an Executive MBA at Case Western Reserve University’s Weatherhead School of Management in 2004. 🎓✨

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE 🌐

🎓 Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Ghannoum is a distinguished figure in medical mycology, currently serving as Tenured Professor in the Department of Dermatology at Case Western Reserve University since 2000. He is the Director of the Center for Medical Mycology and the Mycology Reference Laboratory at Case Western Reserve and University Hospitals Case Medical Center. With a background spanning from Kuwait University to UCLA School of Medicine, his career includes pivotal roles in microbiology and infectious diseases research. Prof. Ghannoum’s expertise bridges academia and clinical practice, shaping advancements in fungal research and treatment worldwide. 🌍🔬

PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES  🌐

🌐 Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Ghannoum has played a pivotal role in infectious disease research and dermatology at Case Western Reserve University. He chaired various committees, including the Dermatology Department’s Recruitment and Promotion Committee and the Antifungal Susceptibility Subcommittee of CLSI. His leadership extends to international conferences and editorial boards, enhancing medical mycology and antimicrobial research. As President of the Medical Mycological Society of Americas and advisor to CLSI’s Consensus Committee on Microbiology, his influence spans academia and clinical practice. With ongoing NIH involvement and numerous committee memberships, Prof. Ghannoum continues to shape global standards in infectious disease management and medical research.

TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH 🧬

Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Ghannoum is a pioneer in biofilm research, co-founding Great Lakes Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and spearheading the development of B-lock™, an innovative antibiofilm product. Currently undergoing Phase III clinical trials via the 505(b)(2) regulatory pathway 🧪, B-lock™ shows promise in combating microbial biofilms. Dr. Ghannoum has also submitted multiple invention disclosures to Tech Transfer offices: one focusing on catheter Lock solutions for biofilm treatment 💡, another on the metabolomics profile of head and neck cancer 🧬, and a third on using Pichia as a probiotic or therapeutic against fungal infections 🍄. Additionally, he is involved in a patent application for photodynamic therapy 🌟, showcasing his commitment to advancing medical science.

ENTREPRENEURIAL ACTIVITIES 💼

Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Ghannoum, as Chief Scientific Officer and Co-Founder of Great Lakes Pharmaceuticals, spearheaded translational research leading to an anti-biofilm lock solution now in Phase III clinical trials, based on his RO1 on microbial biofilms 🧫. He conducted extensive pre-clinical studies and secured $2.7 million in Fast Track funding through SBIR grants 💡. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in raising private financing from angel investors and venture capital firms like Charter Life Science Fund 🌱. As Chief Scientific Officer of Oasis Consumer Healthcare LLC/ARMS Pharmaceutical, he oversaw the development of germ remediation drugs, managed Phase II trials, and facilitated nearly $8 million in private funding 🌍. His consultancy roles with major pharmaceutical companies underscore his profound impact on the industry 🔬.

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS 🤝 

Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Ghannoum is a distinguished member of several prestigious organizations, including the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (ESCMID), American Society for Microbiology, and Infectious Diseases Society of America, where he holds fellowship status. His expertise extends to the American Academy of Dermatology and the International Society for Human and Animal Mycology (ISHAM). He has previously been associated with the Leaders Society of the Dermatology Foundation and the Society for Investigative Dermatology (SID). Dr. Ghannoum’s contributions have also been recognized by the Society for General Microbiology (U.K.) and the American Association for the Advancement of Sciences. 🌍🔬👨‍🔬

HONORS AND SPECIAL AWARDS 🏅 

Prof. Dr. Mahmoud Ghannoum has garnered extensive recognition for his pioneering contributions in microbiology and infectious diseases. He received the prestigious “Freedom to Discover Award” from Bristol Myers-Squibb, a testament to his groundbreaking research with a $500,000 grant. His intellectual achievements were further honored with the Kuwait Foundation for Advancement of Science Award, emphasizing scientific advancement. Dr. Ghannoum’s leadership includes chairing the Antifungal Sub-committee of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute and serving as a member of NIH study sections. Named one of Cleveland’s “Most Interesting People,” he also received awards like the Billy Cooper Award and the Prevent Blindness America Investigator Award for his research on biofilms. 🏆🔬

PUBLICATIONS TOP NOTES 📚

Biofilm Formation by the Fungal PathogenCandida albicans: Development, Architecture, and Drug Resistance

Antifungal agents: mode of action, mechanisms of resistance, and correlation of these mechanisms with bacterial resistance

Characterization of the oral fungal microbiome (mycobiome) in healthy individuals

Potential role of phospholipases in virulence and fungal pathogenesis

Development of interpretive breakpoints for antifungal susceptibility testing: conceptual framework and analysis of in vitro-in vivo correlation data for fluconazole …

Antifungal Susceptibility of Candida Biofilms: Unique Efficacy of Amphotericin B Lipid Formulations and Echinocandins

Antifungal resistance of candidal biofilms formed on denture acrylic in vitro

A large-scale North American study of fungal isolates from nails: the frequency of onychomycosis, fungal distribution, and antifungal susceptibility patterns

Comparison of Biofilms Formed by Candidaalbicans and Candidaparapsilosis on Bioprosthetic Surfaces

Antifungal susceptibility testing: practical aspects and current challenges

Prof. Dr. Younes Hamed | Environmental Science | Best Paper Award-1195

Prof. Dr. Younes Hamed | Environmental Science | Best Paper Award

Prof. Dr. Younes Hamed, Gafsa University, Tunisia

🌍 Prof. Dr. Younes Hamed, based at Gafsa University in Tunisia, stands as a distinguished figure in Environmental Science. His groundbreaking research has earned acclaim, notably in sustainable development and environmental policy. With a profound commitment to scholarly excellence, Dr. Hamed’s contributions extend across pivotal studies that illuminate pathways towards ecological resilience. His work not only enriches academic discourse but also inspires practical solutions for environmental challenges globally. As a beacon of knowledge and innovation, he continues to shape the future of environmental science through rigorous inquiry and visionary leadership. 📚🌱

Profile

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Academic and Professional Experience

Prof. Dr. Younes Hamed, an accomplished figure in Hydrogeology Modeling and Geochemistry, has been serving as a Professor at Gafsa University, Tunisia, since May 2022. With a rich academic background, he has held roles as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Water Engineering and Environmental Sciences. Previously, he contributed as an Associate Professor at various Tunisian universities from 2010 to 2021. Dr. Hamed boasts extensive international experience, leading hydrogeological research and projects. His work focuses on water resources management, climate change impacts, and environmental assessments in North Africa. He engages in fruitful collaborations and conducts training programs globally 🌍📚.

Professional Affiliations

🌍 Prof. Dr. Younes Hamed, a prominent figure in the International Association of Water Resources in the Southern Mediterranean Basin, contributes significantly to hydrogeology. With expertise in water resource management, he serves on the editorial boards of several esteemed hydrogeological journals. His dedication extends to advancing sustainable practices and policies in water management, ensuring resilience in arid and semi-arid regions. Prof. Hamed’s research focuses on optimizing water use efficiency and combating water scarcity challenges through innovative solutions. His leadership underscores a commitment to fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange in hydrogeology, shaping strategies for sustainable water resource development. 🌊

Research Projects

Prof. Dr. Younes Hamed has demonstrated exemplary leadership in both national and international hydrogeological projects, with a strong focus on climate impact studies and aquifer modeling. His contributions extend to supervising numerous graduate and doctoral students, fostering the next generation of experts in the field. His involvement spans various significant national and international projects, where he has applied his expertise to advance hydrogeological understanding and address critical environmental challenges. Dr. Hamed’s leadership and mentorship have been instrumental in driving impactful research and innovation, ensuring sustainable water resource management globally. 🌍💧

International Recognition

Prof. Dr. Younes Hamed is internationally recognized for his profound expertise in hydrogeology, isotopic geochemistry, and environmental protection. His pioneering research has significantly advanced our understanding of groundwater dynamics and environmental sustainability. Through his work, he has contributed invaluable insights into the interaction between geological processes and water resources, ensuring effective environmental management strategies worldwide. Dr. Hamed’s dedication to preserving our natural ecosystems is symbolized by his continuous efforts to integrate scientific innovation with practical environmental solutions 🌍. His leadership in the field underscores his commitment to shaping a sustainable future through rigorous scientific inquiry and environmental stewardship.

Publications Top Notes

Climate impact on surface and groundwater in North Africa: a global synthesis of findings and recommendations

Hydrogeochemical and stable isotope data of groundwater of a multi-aquifer system: Northern Gafsa basin–Central Tunisia

Use of geochemical, isotopic, and age tracer data to develop models of groundwater flow: A case study of Gafsa mining basin-Southern Tunisia

Groundwater mixing and geochemical assessment of low-enthalpy resources in the geothermal field of southwestern Tunisia

Slope failure characteristics and slope movement susceptibility assessment using GIS in a medium scale: a case study from Ouled Driss and Machroha municipalities, Northeast Algeria

Groundwater evolution of the Continental Intercalaire aquifer of Southern Tunisia and a part of Southern Algeria: use of geochemical and isotopic indicators

Hydrogeochemical characterization of water mineralization in Tebessa-Kasserine karst system (Tuniso-Algerian Transboundry basinbased approaches for the landslide susceptibility prediction in Setif Region (NE Algeria)

GIS-based evaluation of groundwater quality and estimation of soil salinization and land degradation risks in an arid Mediterranean site (SW Tunisia)

A GIS-based statistical model for assessing groundwater susceptibility index in shallow aquifer in Central Tunisia (Sidi Bouzid basin)

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni | Ecology and Conservation | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni | Ecology and Conservation | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni, General Manager: Scientifc Services, South African National Parks, South Africa

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni, renowned for her expertise in Ecology and Conservation, has been honored with the prestigious Women Researcher Award. Serving as the General Manager of Scientific Services at South African National Parks, she exemplifies dedication to biodiversity preservation and sustainable practices. Dr. Maruping-Mzileni’s leadership underscores her commitment to advancing ecological research and fostering conservation initiatives. Her contributions are pivotal in shaping environmental stewardship in South Africa and beyond. 🌿🏆

Profile

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Academic Record

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni has a rich academic background spanning over a decade, culminating in a DTech in Nature Conservation from Tshwane University of Technology. Her research journey began with a BSc in Zoology and Ecology from St. Francis Xavier University, Canada, followed by an Honors BSc in Wildlife Management and an MSc in Wildlife Management from the University of Pretoria. Her doctoral work focused on the emergence of bovine tuberculosis in lions at Kruger National Park, South Africa, from 2011 to 2015. 🦁 Her expertise extends to reintroducing captive-bred cheetahs into the wild, demonstrating a deep commitment to wildlife conservation and management.

Work Experience

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni brings a wealth of expertise to her role as General Manager of the Cape and Arid Research Units at South African National Parks. With a career spanning from ecological consulting to regional ecology, she excels in coordinating biodiversity conservation research across national parks. Her leadership emphasizes adaptive management principles, ensuring effective science-management interfaces. Previously a lecturer and research manager, she has nurtured future conservationists through training and mentoring. Dr. Maruping-Mzileni’s contributions extend globally, shaping conservation strategies and fostering a deep understanding of wildlife management. 🌿🔬

Teaching Experience

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni offers a range of specialized diploma and BTech courses focused on environmental conservation and wildlife management. The curriculum includes diverse programs such as Nature Conservation, Ecotourism Management, and Wildlife/Game Ranch Management. These courses are designed to equip students with practical skills and knowledge essential for preserving biodiversity and managing natural resources sustainably. Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni’s dedication to education in these fields ensures that graduates are prepared to tackle current and future challenges in conservation and ecotourism 🌿🦒.

Research Achievements

Dr. Nkabeng Thato Maruping-Mzileni’s research illuminates critical insights into the dynamics of African wildlife. 🦁 Her recent study explores the impact of ecological factors on Roan Antelope populations in Mokala National Park, South Africa, highlighting the intricate balance between environmental drivers and species survival. Previous works delve into diverse aspects of wildlife ecology, including disease transmission in lions, spatial patterns of large cats, and shifts in lion prey selection. 🌍 Through her comprehensive approach, Dr. Maruping-Mzileni contributes significantly to our understanding of biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management in African savannas.

Relevant Field skills

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni brings a wealth of experience in Conservation Biology, spanning diverse regions like Canada, Namibia, and South Africa. 🌍 Her expertise includes telemetry, Cybertracker, CMore, and extensive surveys—both aerial and ground-based—focusing on various animal and vegetation surveying techniques. She specializes in the capture and monitoring of large, free-roaming mammals such as cheetahs, leopards, lions, rhinos, and various African ungulates. 🦁🦏 Dr. Maruping-Mzileni also excels in vegetation surveys, encompassing woody and herbaceous plants, plant taxonomy, classification, dynamics, and phenology. Additionally, her skills extend to captive animal care and handling, including species like vervet monkeys, chacma baboons, spotted hyenas, and more. 🌿

Community Engagement and Outreach

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni brings a wealth of experience and passion to her roles across various platforms. As a former board member of the International Wildlife Fellowship Foundation 🌍, her focus on promoting sustainable wildlife use for biodiversity conservation is evident. She also actively engages with the Next Einstein Forum, advocating for science and inspiring Lesotho’s youth since 2015 🧬. At the National University of Lesotho, she shares her expertise, emphasizing science as a catalyst for development 🎓. Her contributions to The Conversation Africa from 2014 to 2019 highlight her commitment to bridging scientific research with public awareness on conservation 📚.

Publications Top Notes

Livestock predation and its management in South Africa: A scientific assessment

Spatio-temporal separation between lions and leopards in the Kruger National Park and the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, South Africa

State-shifts of lion prey selection in the Kruger National Park

Uncovering hidden states in African lion movement data using hidden Markov models

Ecological drivers of female lion (Panthera leo) reproduction in the Kruger National Park

Effects of the number of people on efficient capture and sample collection: A lion case study

Spatial patterns of large African cats: a large‐scale study on density, home range size, and home range overlap of lions Panthera leo and leopards Panthera pardus

The implications of large home range size in a solitary felid, the Leopard (Panthera pardus)

Horizontal disease transmission in lions from behavioural interfaces via social network analysis

The ephemeral pans of Gras-Holpan: Mokala National Park, Northern Cape, South Africa

The re-introduction of captive bred cheetah into a wild environment, Makulu Makete Wildlife Reserve, Limpopo province, South Africa