Neeraj Thakur | AI in Healthcare | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Neeraj Thakur | AI in Healthcare | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Fellow at University of Oklahoma Health Sciences, United States

Dr. Neeraj S. Thakur, currently a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (OUHSC), is a highly motivated researcher specializing in drug delivery systems, theranostic platforms, and AI-based approaches for developing novel diagnostics and treatments. With over a decade of international research experience spanning the USA, Europe, and Asia, Dr. Thakur has led multiple projects related to nanomaterial design, formulation development, and the synthesis of advanced drug delivery systems for treating diseases like cancer and infections. His expertise extends to both small molecules and large biomolecules, utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as polymeric and lipid nanoparticles. He has an extensive publication record with 29 papers, five patents, six book chapters, and significant contributions to the field.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Thakur earned his Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Technology (Biotechnology) from the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Mohali, India, where his research focused on the development of nanoparticle-based fluorescent probes for biomedical applications. He also holds an M.Tech in Pharmaceutical Technology (Biotechnology) from NIPER, Mohali, where he was the class topper, and a B.Pharm degree from Shri G.S. Institute of Technology and Science, Indore. Additionally, he is pursuing a Certificate in Data Science and Machine Learning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Experience

Dr. Thakur has held significant roles in various research institutions. As a Postdoctoral Fellow at OUHSC, he established research laboratories and led projects on nanomaterial development for drug delivery systems targeting multiple applications, including inner ear and ocular delivery. Prior to this, he worked at the University of Geneva, Switzerland, where he developed hybrid micelle formulations for transdermal delivery and designed iontophoretic devices. He also contributed to the Center of Innovative and Applied Bioprocessing (CIAB), India, where he led the development of topical drug delivery systems and was involved in several patent filings. These experiences have honed his skills in formulation and analytical development, laboratory management, and industrial collaboration.

Research Interests

Dr. Thakur’s research interests focus on the development of advanced drug delivery systems, particularly using nanomaterials such as polymeric and lipid nanoparticles. His work aims to improve the therapeutic efficacy of drugs by enhancing their delivery to specific sites in the body, such as the inner ear, ocular tissues, and tumors. He is also dedicated to the integration of AI-based approaches for optimizing drug delivery design, ensuring more precise treatments for conditions like cancer and ototoxicity. His passion extends to the creation of theranostic platforms for early disease diagnosis and personalized medicine.

Awards

Throughout his career, Dr. Thakur has received numerous accolades for his contributions to pharmaceutical sciences. Notable among them are the John B. Bruce Scholarship Award (2024), the Best Abstract Award at AAPS Pharm360 (2023), and the prestigious Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship (2020-2021). His earlier achievements include the DST-INSPIRE and CSIR Research Fellowships, which are awarded to the top 1% of students in India. These recognitions underscore his impact on the scientific community and his leadership in advancing pharmaceutical research.

Publications

Dr. Thakur has authored 29 peer-reviewed papers, with some of his recent work focused on innovative drug delivery systems. Key publications include:

Thakur, N.S., et al., “Crosslinked Hybrid Nanoparticle Embedded in Thermogel For Sustained Co-Delivery to Inner Ear,” Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 2024.

Thakur, N.S., et al., “Progress and Promise of Photoresponsive Nanocarriers for Precision Drug Delivery in Cancer,” Journal of Photochemistry & Photobiology C: Photochemistry Reviews, 2024.

Thakur, N.S., et al., “Dual Stimuli-Responsive and Sustained Drug Delivery Nanosensogel for Prevention of Cisplatin-Induced Ototoxicity,” Journal of Controlled Release, 2024.

Paul, S., et al., “Co-Administration of Chemo-Phototherapeutic Loaded Lignin Nanoarchitecture for Skin Cancer and Bacterial Infections,” ACS Applied Nano Materials, 2024.

Kumar, S., et al., “Bioengineered Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Based Biosensors and Applications,” Sensors and Diagnostics, 2023. These works, which cover nanomedicine, drug delivery, and nanomaterial innovation, have significantly contributed to the field of pharmaceutical sciences and have been widely cited.

Conclusion

Dr. Neeraj S. Thakur’s multifaceted career highlights his dedication to advancing pharmaceutical research through innovation in nanotechnology and drug delivery systems. His profound knowledge in both academic and industrial settings, along with his leadership in driving collaborative research projects, continues to position him as a key figure in his field. With a focus on precision medicine, AI-based design, and the development of targeted therapies, Dr. Thakur is making remarkable strides toward improving patient outcomes and advancing the future of drug delivery and diagnostics.

Hossein Nikzad | AI in Healthcare | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Hossein Nikzad | AI in Healthcare | Best Researcher Award

Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Iran

Hossein Nikzad is a distinguished academic and researcher affiliated with the Kashan University of Medical Sciences in Kashan, Iran. He is a key figure in the Anatomical Science Research Center at the university, contributing significantly to research in areas such as male infertility, pharmacology, oxidative stress, and reproductive biology. His scientific work is marked by his expertise in understanding complex biological mechanisms and exploring potential therapeutic approaches to treat infertility and related disorders.

Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Hossein Nikzad earned his academic qualifications from reputable institutions, building a solid foundation in the fields of anatomy and reproductive health. Over the years, his educational journey has been intertwined with his commitment to advancing scientific research in reproductive medicine, with a specific focus on male infertility and related pathologies.

Experience

Dr. Nikzad’s professional experience spans multiple research and teaching roles, where he has been a key contributor to both academic and scientific communities. His work at Kashan University of Medical Sciences is complemented by collaborations with national and international researchers. His research focuses on reproductive medicine, particularly the effects of oxidative stress on male infertility, therapeutic interventions, and the molecular biology of various reproductive conditions. His experience extends into various research domains, including the use of herbal medicine in infertility treatment and the exploration of novel biological markers.

Research Interests

Dr. Nikzad’s primary research interests lie in the areas of oxidative stress, male infertility, and the molecular underpinnings of reproductive health. He is also interested in the therapeutic potential of antioxidants and other herbal remedies in treating infertility. His studies have delved into various related fields, such as the interaction between long noncoding RNAs and gynecological cancers, the effects of diet on reproductive health, and the development of therapeutic strategies to combat viral infections like COVID-19.

Awards

Dr. Nikzad has earned recognition for his outstanding contributions to the field of anatomical sciences and reproductive medicine. His work has been cited widely in numerous scientific journals, reflecting his influence and leadership in these research areas. While specific awards or nominations are not detailed, his research impact, including over 3000 citations, speaks to his global recognition as a leader in his field.

Publications

Barati E, Nikzad H, Karimian M. “Oxidative stress and male infertility: current knowledge of pathophysiology and role of antioxidant therapy in disease management,” Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences, 77, 93-113, 2020.

Hosseini ES, Kashani NR, Nikzad H, Azadbakht J, Bafrani HH, et al. “The novel coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19): Mechanism of action, detection and recent therapeutic strategies,” Virology, 551, 1-9, 2020.

Hosseini ES, Meryet-Figuiere M, Sabzalipoor H, Kashani HH, Nikzad H, et al. “Dysregulated expression of long noncoding RNAs in gynecologic cancers,” Molecular Cancer, 16, 1-13, 2017.

Kabir-Salmani M, Nikzad H, Shiokawa S, Akimoto Y, Iwashita M. “Secretory role for human uterodomes (pinopods): secretion of LIF,” Molecular Human Reproduction, 11(8), 553-559, 2005.

Mohammadi F, Nikzad H, Taherian A, Amini Mahabadi J, Salehi M. “Effects of herbal medicine on male infertility,” Anatomical Sciences Journal, 10(4), 3-16, 2017.

Aghaei S, Nikzad H, Taghizadeh M, Tameh AA, Taherian A, Moravveji A. “Protective effect of Pumpkin seed extract on sperm characteristics, biochemical parameters, and epididymal histology in adult male rats treated with Cyclophosphamide,” Andrologia, 46(8), 927-935, 2014.

Mobasseri N, Babaei F, Karimian M, Nikzad H. “Androgen receptor (AR)-CAG trinucleotide repeat length and idiopathic male infertility: A case-control trial and a meta-analysis,” EXCLI Journal, 17, 1167-1174, 2018.

Conclusion

Dr. Hossein Nikzad is a renowned researcher whose work has profoundly impacted the fields of reproductive biology, male infertility, and related therapeutic interventions. His extensive publications and research collaborations highlight his commitment to advancing scientific understanding of infertility and related disorders. Through his research, he continues to contribute valuable insights into improving the quality of life for individuals facing reproductive health challenges.