Ileana Pereda Reyes | Biochemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Ileana Pereda Reyes | Biochemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Thecnological University of Havana José Antonio Echeverría  | Cuba

Prof. Dr. Ileana Pereda Reyes is a leading Cuban researcher and Research Director at the Universidad Tecnológica de La Habana “José Antonio Echeverría.” Her work centers on environmental biotechnology, anaerobic digestion, and sustainable waste-to-energy systems, emphasizing the conversion of agro-industrial and biodegradable waste into renewable energy sources. With over 60 scientific works, 866 citations, and an h-index of 13, she has made notable contributions to optimizing biogas production, methane yield kinetics, and wastewater treatment processes. Her publications in esteemed journals such as Water, Fermentation, and Waste Management showcase her expertise in biomethane modeling, process kinetics, and bioresource valorization.

Profile:  Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  • Pagés-Díaz, J., Pereda-Reyes, I., Taherzadeh, M. J., Sárvári-Horváth, I., & Lundin, M. (2014). Anaerobic co-digestion of solid slaughterhouse wastes with agro-residues: Synergistic and antagonistic interactions determined in batch digestion assays. Chemical Engineering Journal, 245, 89–98.

  • Díaz, J. P., Reyes, I. P., Lundin, M., & Horváth, I. S. (2011). Co-digestion of different waste mixtures from agro-industrial activities: Kinetic evaluation and synergistic effects. Bioresource Technology, 102(23), 10834–10840.

  • González, L. M. L., Reyes, I. P., & Romero, O. R. (2017). Anaerobic co-digestion of sugarcane press mud with vinasse on methane yield. Waste Management, 68, 139–145.

  • Contreras, L. M., Schelle, H., Sebrango, C., & Pereda-Reyes, I. (2012). Methane potential and biodegradability of rice straw, rice husk and rice residues from the drying process. Water Science and Technology, 65(6), 1142–1149.

  • González, L. M. L., Reyes, I. P., Dewulf, J., Budde, J., Heiermann, M., & Vervaeren, H. (2014). Effect of liquid hot water pre-treatment on sugarcane press mud methane yield. Bioresource Technology, 169, 284–290.

Xiaocui Wan | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiaocui Wan | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiaocui Wan, Anhui University, China

Dr. Xiao-Cui Wan is a dedicated PhD student at Anhui University, specializing in peptide and protein engineering. Her research centers on constructing and screening large-scale gene coding cyclic peptide libraries and innovating methods for peptide cyclization. With three first-author publications in top-tier journals, she has already made significant contributions to chemical biology and molecular design. Dr. Wan is passionate about developing novel biochemical tools and has introduced pioneering techniques in peptide synthesis. Her academic diligence and innovative spirit have positioned her as a promising young researcher in molecular biotechnology. 📚🧬🔬

Publication Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Xiao-Cui Wan is currently pursuing her PhD in the field of chemical biology at Anhui University, China. Her doctoral research focuses on advanced techniques for constructing peptide macrocycle libraries and modifying protein structures for enhanced biochemical function. Through rigorous training in peptide synthesis, enzymatic cyclization, and molecular display systems, she has developed deep expertise in biomolecular design. She also holds prior academic qualifications in life sciences and biochemistry, forming a strong foundation for her current research. Her educational journey reflects a commitment to innovation, problem-solving, and scientific excellence in the field of molecular biology. 🎓🧪📖

💼 Experience

A PhD candidate at Anhui University, Xiao-Cui Wan has led and contributed to five significant research projects, each focusing on cutting-edge strategies in peptide cyclization and library screening. Her work has resulted in three first-author papers in high-impact journals such as Organic Letters and Chemical Science. She has also collaborated on advanced studies using ligase-based and enzyme-mediated methods for macrocyclic peptide synthesis. While still early in her career, Dr. Wan’s research experiences highlight her growing expertise in synthetic biology and protein chemistry, showcasing her potential as a future leader in peptide therapeutics. 🧫🔍📊

🏅 Awards and Honors

Though still in the early stages of her academic career, Xiao-Cui Wan has achieved significant recognition through her first-author publications in internationally respected journals like Organic Letters and Chemical Science. These accomplishments reflect both the quality and impact of her research. Her innovations in peptide cyclization have earned her distinction among peers and mentors, and her nomination for the “Best Researcher Award” further underlines her contributions to the scientific community. As her career progresses, she is well-positioned to receive further accolades for her pioneering work in molecular biotechnology. 🏆📜🌟

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Xiao-Cui Wan’s research focuses on the construction and screening of gene-coded cyclic peptide libraries and the structural-functional modification of peptides and proteins. She specializes in enzyme-mediated cyclization techniques, such as using sortase and omniligase for developing macrocyclic ligands. Her work explores novel chemical strategies like thioproline oxidation and phage display systems for therapeutic peptide discovery. These contributions aim to enhance the efficiency and specificity of biologically active molecules. Her research lies at the intersection of synthetic biology, chemical synthesis, and molecular medicine. 🧪🧬💡

Publication Top Notes

  • 📄 Asparaginyl Endopeptidase-Mediated Peptide Cyclization for Phage DisplayOrganic Letters, 2024
    🔗 DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.4c00602
    📅 Published: April 2024

  • 📄 Employing Unnatural Promiscuity of Sortase to Construct Peptide Macrocycle Libraries for Ligand DiscoveryChemical Science, 2024
    🔗 DOI: 10.1039/D4SC01992J
    📅 Published: May 2024

  • 📄 Thioproline-Based Oxidation Strategy for Direct Preparation of N-Terminal Thiazolidine-Containing Peptide Thioesters from Peptide HydrazidesOrganic Letters, 2024
    🔗 DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.4c01687
    📅 Published: June 2024

  • 📄 A Ligase-Based Two-Step Approach for the Generation of Bicyclic Peptides Containing a Benzylphenyl Thioether FrameworkChemBioChem, 2025
    🔗 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202500240
    📅 Published: 2025

  • 📄 Omniligase-1 Mediated Peptide Cyclization for Phage DisplayChemRxiv Preprint, 2025
    🔗 DOI: 10.26434/chemrxiv-2025-58n67-v2
    📅 Published: April 2025

Stephen Mburu | Clinical chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Stephen Mburu | Clinical chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Stephen Mburu, Kenyatta University, Kenya

Stephen Mburu is a highly dynamic and self-driven Medical Laboratory Scientist with expertise in Medical Laboratory Management and Molecular Testing. He has extensive experience in specimen collection, processing, and implementing Quality Management Systems (QMS). With a strong background in blood sample collection and handling, he ensures adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Stephen is committed to creating an impactful environment for both personal and organizational growth, demonstrating excellent teamwork, communication, and analytical skills. He is currently advancing his career as a Medical Laboratory Superintendent and Trainer, mentoring medical students and leading various health initiatives. 👨‍🔬💼📊

Publication Profile

Orcid

Education

Stephen is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences (Clinical Chemistry/Biochemistry) at Kenyatta University, building on his Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Sciences from Kenya Methodist University. He also holds certifications in computer packages and several medical laboratory-related training programs. His educational background and ongoing studies enable him to stay up to date with industry standards and practices, while also enhancing his capabilities in laboratory management, data analysis, and research. 🎓🔬📚

Experience

Stephen has accumulated comprehensive experience in medical laboratory sciences through roles such as a Medical Laboratory Superintendent at Thika Nursing Home Hospital and a Medical Laboratory Technologist at Thika School of Medical and Health Sciences. His expertise includes implementing Quality Management Systems, managing laboratory operations, conducting molecular tests, and mentoring students. Stephen has led various projects, including ensuring a 100% student pass rate in national exams and introducing new courses like the Certificate in Safe Phlebotomy, which saw 80% enrollment. His experience reflects a commitment to quality and continuous improvement in healthcare delivery. 🏥💼👨‍🔬

Awards and Honors

Stephen has received notable recognition for his exceptional contributions to medical laboratory science. He led his department’s successful accreditation by HUQAS Lab systems and played a key role in achieving a 100% student pass rate in national KMLTTB exams. Additionally, he introduced a short course on safe phlebotomy at Thika School of Medical and Health Sciences, which resulted in significant enrollment. His leadership and commitment to academic and operational excellence have earned him respect within the healthcare and education sectors. 🏅🎖️📜

Research Focus

Stephen’s research focuses on antimicrobial susceptibility testing, particularly on E. coli in children under five at Meru Level Five Teaching and Referral Hospital. His academic and research interests include molecular diagnostics, quality management systems in laboratories, and the development of innovative training programs for medical students. His work aims to contribute to improved healthcare delivery through advanced laboratory techniques and evidence-based practices. Stephen is committed to advancing the fields of molecular testing and laboratory management, ensuring accurate and reliable healthcare diagnostics. 🧬🔬

Publication Top Notes

Cardioprotective and anti-atherosclerotic effects of Rhamnus prinoides extracts in animal models