Hoda Khaledi | Marine Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr. Hoda Khaledi | Marine Biology | Best Researcher Award

Faculty Member | Iranian National Institute for Oceanography and Atmospheric Science | Iran

Dr. Hoda Khaledi is a dedicated marine biologist and faculty member at the Iranian National Institute for Oceanography and Atmospheric Science. With extensive experience in marine research and education, Dr. Khaledi has contributed significantly to the study of marine organisms and environmental sustainability. Her expertise spans across biotechnology, ecology, and genetics, with a focus on marine biology and aquaculture.

Profile 📘

Scholar

Strengths for the Award 🏆

PhD in Marine Biology and longstanding faculty member at respected institutions, including the Iranian National Institute for Oceanography and Atmospheric Science. Proven experience in diverse teaching fields, including genetics, marine animal biology, and ecology, reflecting a strong academic foundation. Her research covers a wide range of topics, such as marine microorganisms, coastal management, genetic diversity, and environmental impact assessments. She has led significant research projects on topics like the ecological assessment of marine areas, antibacterial activities of marine species, and the genetic structure of fish and turtles, which shows her dedication to addressing critical environmental issues. Registration of new genes and participation in international studies demonstrates her innovative contributions to marine science and biotechnology. Published several papers in prestigious journals and presented at international conferences, which speaks to her active involvement in the scientific community. Her work on marine metabolites and cancer research, for example, is notable for bridging environmental science with medical applications. Dr. Khaledi has held important leadership positions, such as Director of Research and Technology at Khorramshahr University and Director of the Graduate Office at the Iranian National Institute for Oceanography and Atmospheric Science. These roles highlight her influence in shaping research policy and academic programs. Her role in international plans and UN-related studies, like coastal management and marine ecosystem protection, demonstrates the global impact of her research. Her work on conservation using IUCN criteria showcases her engagement in ecological sustainability on a worldwide scale.

Education 🎓

Dr. Khaledi holds a Ph.D. in Marine Biology (1390), a Master’s in Biology (1383), and a Bachelor’s in Biology (1375). Her academic journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing knowledge in marine science, culminating in her becoming a leading expert in her field.

Experience 🛠️

Over the years, Dr. Khaledi has held numerous academic and administrative roles. She started her career as a Medical Lab Technician (1375-1378), and later became a Teaching Technician of Biological and Aquaculture Labs at Khorramshahr University of Marine Science and Technology (1378-1384). She has been a faculty member at Khorramshahr University (1384-1394) and continues to serve as a faculty member at the Iranian National Institute for Oceanography and Atmospheric Science (1394-present).

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Khaledi’s research interests focus on marine microbiology, biotechnology, and the extraction and analysis of bioactive compounds from marine organisms. Her work spans from antibacterial activities of sea cucumbers to ecological assessments of wetlands, showcasing her dedication to environmental sustainability and marine biodiversity.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Khaledi’s contributions to marine science have been recognized through various awards and nominations. Her innovative research in marine biotechnology and ecology has garnered attention both nationally and internationally.

Publications 📚

A review on the state of the biodiversity knowledge on Iran’s southern seas: introducing a methodology to evaluate the validity of the reported cases

    • Authors: A Maghsoudlou, F Momtazi, K Nasiri, S Pazooki, M Molavi-Arabshahi, …
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 20

Purification of Bysal Mussel (Modiolus sp. PG) Adhesive Protein fp-2 from Northern Seashore of Persian Gulf

    • Authors: S Hosseini, H Zolgharnine, A Bargahi, H Khaledi, N Salamat, B Archangi
    • Year: 2017
    • Citations: 3

The effect of Sargassum tenerrimum seaweed extracts on VEGF gene expression in SW742 colorectal cancer cell line

    • Authors: M Masoudi, H Khaledi, B Archangi, A Khodadadi, G Dinarvand, …
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 2

The effect of Sargassum tenerrimum seaweed extracts on WT1 gene expression in K562 leukemia cancer cell line

    • Authors: A Noshadi, H Khaledi, A Khodadadi, SM Mousavi, R Attari
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 1

Ecological baseline analysis of mollusks in the intertidal stations of Ouli, Dayyer, and Kangan, in the Persian Gulf

    • Authors: A Rezaei, H Khaledi, A Savari, B Dostshenas, HM Asgari, R Attari
    • Year: 2022
    • Citations: 1

Antibacterial assay of Holothuria parva extracts against two pathogenic bacteria

    • Author: H Khaledi
    • Year: 2016
    • Citations: 1

Study of genetic diversity of hara trees on the coast of Hormozgan Province using rapid molecular method

    • Authors: I Ghanavati, Mohammad Ghasemi, H Zolgharnein, H Khaledi
    • Year: 2015
    • Citations: 1

Genetic Structure Four Finger Threadfin (Eleutheronema tetradactylum) Population in the Persian Gulf and the Oman Sea Using RAPD Marker

    • Authors: H Khaledi, S RezvaniGilkolaei, H Zolgharnein, A Savari, AR Safahieh, …
    • Year: 2012
    • Citations: 1

Genetic Diversity of Four Finger Threadfin (Eleutheronema tetradactylum) Population in the Persian Gulf and the Oman Sea Using 28S rRNA Gene Sequencing

    • Authors: H Khaledi, GS Rezvani, H Zolgharnein, A Savari, AR Safahieh
    • Year: 2012
    • Citations: 1

Ecological assessment of macrobenthic communities in Chabahar Bay, the Gulf of Oman

    • Author: H Khaledi
    • Year: 2024

The study of comparison of population structure and ecological indicators of macrobenthos on the coasts of Chabahar Bay (Oman sea, Iran)

    • Authors: H Khaledi, F Owfi, E Pahlevan
    • Year: 2023

Environmental factors and benthic macrofaunal distribution in the establishment of a baseline for coastal management in Chabahar Bay, Gulf of Oman, Iran

    • Author: H Khaledi
    • Year: 2022

A Roadmap Draft for the Development of Synthetic Biology in IR Iran

    • Authors: A Moghadam, S Nazarian, S Haghighat, R Zahmatkesh Roodsari, …
    • Year: 2017

Conclusion 🌊

Dr. Hoda Khaledi’s impressive academic and research background, leadership roles, and extensive contributions to marine biology make her a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. While she has shown expertise across numerous areas of marine science, there is room to further elevate her work through more interdisciplinary research, broader publication reach, and public engagement. Given her current trajectory, she is poised to continue making impactful contributions to marine and environmental sciences.

Sahar Chebaane | Marine Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Sahar Chebaane | Marine Ecology | Best Researcher Award

PhD student | Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon | Portugal

Strengths for the Award

Ms. Sahar Chebaane’s work in marine ecology, specifically on non-indigenous marine species (NIS), demonstrates significant contributions to marine bioinvasion monitoring and management. Her extensive research across multiple regions, such as the Mediterranean, Red Sea, and Arabian Gulf, is particularly valuable given the global challenge of invasive species in marine environments. Leading projects like the first MarineGEO site in Tunisia and developing innovative tools such as the Remote Video Foraging System (RVFS) shows her capacity for innovation and leadership. With 17 publications in indexed journals and active participation in international collaborations, her work is impactful and policy-relevant.

🌊 Short Bio

Ms. Sahar Chebaane is a dedicated marine ecologist and PhD student at the University of Lisbon, Portugal, focusing on marine bioinvasions in coastal ecosystems. With expertise in non-indigenous species (NIS), she has contributed to several high-impact publications and ongoing international collaborations. Sahar is currently a research visitor at KAUST, working on projects in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf. She also leads the first MarineGEO site in the southern Mediterranean, focusing on biosecurity and marine conservation efforts.

👤 Profile

Scholar

🎓 Education

Sahar holds a dual master’s degree in Biodiversity and Marine Sciences, coupled with an international PhD from the University of Lisbon. Her academic journey is marked by strong interdisciplinary expertise, which she applies in both marine ecology and biosecurity frameworks. Her current PhD research extends her deep understanding of NIS and their impact on local ecosystems.

💼 Experience

Sahar has played a pivotal role in 8 completed research projects and is actively engaged in updating species lists of ascidians and NIS in the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf. She also leads consultancy projects related to biodiversity monitoring and NIS management, applying cutting-edge tools like the Remote Video Foraging System (RVFS). As the Principal Investigator for the MarineGEO site in Tunisia, she drives sustainable management practices and oversees field deployments of the SERC protocol.

🔬 Research Interest

Her research centers on the impacts of non-indigenous species (NIS), particularly in the Mediterranean, Atlantic, and Red Sea regions. She is interested in how NIS interact with local marine ecosystems, developing innovative methods for risk assessments and biosecurity. Her work also focuses on ecological interactions, which inform conservation strategies and policies to manage invasive species more effectively.

🏆 Awards

Sahar has been nominated for several prestigious awards, including the Marine Scientist Awards for her groundbreaking work in marine ecology and bioinvasions. Her contributions to NIS research and marine conservation have earned her recognition in various international platforms.

📚 Publications

  1. A Preliminary Inventory of Alien and Cryptogenic Species in Monastir Bay, Tunisia (2019) – Published in Mediterranean Marine Science, cited by 26 articles. Read here.
    Prompt: Spatial distribution and pathways of invasive species in Tunisia.
  2. From Plates to Baits: Using a Remote Video Foraging System to Study NIS Dynamics (2022) – Published in Journal of Marine Science and Engineering, cited by 12 articles. Read here.
    Prompt: Innovation in studying non-indigenous species with RVFS.
  3. The First Record of Brown Macroalga Rugulopteryx Okamurae in Madeira Island (2022) – Published by REABIC, cited by 11 articles. Read here.
    Prompt: First sightings of invasive macroalgae in the Madeira Archipelago.
  4. A New Signal of Tropicalization in the Northeast Atlantic: Spread of Spotfin Burrfish (2021) – Published in Diversity, cited by 8 articles. Read here.
    Prompt: Expansion of tropical fish in the Northeast Atlantic.
  5. New Record of Invasive Amphipod Caprella Scaura in Tunisia (2018) – Published in Journal of the Black Sea/Mediterranean Environment, cited by 8 articles. Read here.
    Prompt: First reported sighting of an invasive amphipod species in North Africa.

📝 Conclusion

Sahar Chebaane is a prominent figure in marine ecology, specializing in bioinvasions and non-indigenous species management. Her multidisciplinary approach and innovative methods, such as using the RVFS for NIS dynamics, have made significant contributions to both academic research and practical conservation efforts. Her leadership in the MarineGEO project and ongoing collaborations reflect her commitment to marine conservation and sustainable management practices across global regions.

Zacharie SOHOU | Marine Ecosystem Services Marine Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr. Zacharie SOHOU | Marine Ecosystem Services Marine Biology | Best Researcher Award

Biologist Oceanographer | Institut de Recherches Halieutiques et Océanologiques du Bénin (IRHOB) & University of Abomey-Calavi | Benin

Strengths for the Award 🌟

Professor Zacharie Sohou is a distinguished oceanographer and fisheries expert with over three decades of dedicated research and leadership in marine and coastal management. His prolific career includes directing the Institut de Recherches Halieutiques et Océanologiques du Bénin (IRHOB) and serving as the National Coordinator for multiple pivotal marine biodiversity initiatives across Africa. His expertise spans from the sustainable management of demersal fish stocks in the South Atlantic to championing marine mammal research. With a robust portfolio of over 15 influential publications, including studies on shrimp population dynamics and climate resilience in fisheries, Professor Sohou is a leader in the field who bridges the gap between scientific research and practical marine conservation. His extensive participation in international forums, including the United Nations Conferences on the Oceans and FAO’s fisheries assessments, underscores his global influence and commitment to addressing critical environmental challenges. His multilingual proficiency and command of advanced data analysis tools further amplify his impact, making him a highly deserving candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” 🌍📊🐟

Short Bio 📜

Professor Zacharie Sohou is a distinguished Beninese oceanographer and fisheries expert, currently serving as the Director of the Institut de Recherches Halieutiques et Océanologiques du Bénin (IRHOB) under the Centre Béninois de la Recherche Scientifique et de l’Innovation (CBRSI). With a career dedicated to marine biodiversity, fisheries management, and oceanographic research, he is a Senior Lecturer at the Zoology Department of the Faculty of Science and Technology at Abomey-Calavi University. Professor Sohou plays a pivotal role in numerous international marine initiatives, including his contributions as the National Marine and Coastal Biodiversity Focal Point for the Marine Biodiversity Convention, Vice-Chair for IOCAFRICA, and National Coordinator for several key marine conservation projects.

Profile 👤

Orcid

Education 🎓

Professor Sohou’s academic journey began with an Engineer – Master of Science degree in Industrial Fisheries from the Technic Institute of Fisheries in Astrakhan, Russia, in 1989. He further advanced his expertise with a certification in Statistics Applied to Fisheries (Biostatistics) from the University of Moncton and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans in Canada in 1995. In 2010, he earned his Ph.D. in Oceanography-Fisheries from the Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography (VNIRO) in Moscow, Russia, solidifying his expertise in marine sciences.

Experience 💼

Throughout his career, Professor Sohou has held various prominent roles in marine and coastal management. As Director of IRHOB, he oversees research and innovation in marine and fisheries sciences in Benin. He is actively involved in international marine biodiversity conventions and regional working groups, such as his role as Chairman of the Demersal Resources Regional Working Group South Atlantic CECAF/FAO. He has served as a consultant and expert on numerous projects, including the West African Gas Pipeline (WAGPE), regional fish stock assessments, and oceanographic data management initiatives.

Research Interest 🔍

Professor Sohou’s research interests span marine biodiversity, fisheries management, and the sustainable use of coastal and oceanic resources. He is deeply involved in the study of marine litter distribution, the impact of climate change on fisheries, and the dynamics of marine ecosystems. His work often focuses on practical applications that improve fisheries management and conservation efforts in West Africa, including the study of shrimp populations, fish stock assessments, and the environmental factors influencing marine biodiversity.

Awards 🏆

Professor Sohou’s dedication to marine sciences and fisheries management has earned him recognition and nominations in various international forums. His contributions to marine conservation and sustainable management of marine resources have been acknowledged through nominations for awards such as the Digital D4D Award by the Royal Museum of Central Africa.

Publications 📚

“Growth and reproduction of the shrimp population in a lagoon system in southern Benin (West Africa).” DOI: 10.1163/15685403-bja10354 — This study explores the reproductive patterns of shrimp species in Benin, contributing to sustainable fisheries management.

“Distribution model of shrimp species in Lake Nokoué, southern Benin, West Africa.” DOI: 10.1163/15685403-bja10304 — This publication models the habitat preferences of shrimp, aiding in conservation efforts.

“Addressing data gaps in marine litter distribution: Citizen science observation of plastics in coastal ecosystems by high-school students.” DOI: 10.3389/fmars.2023.1126895 — A study highlighting the role of citizen science in monitoring marine litter.

“First record of Polymixia nobilis Lowe, 1836 in Benin continental shelf (Gulf of Guinea).” DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.7311177 — This research identifies a new species on the Benin continental shelf, expanding the region’s known biodiversity.

“Characterization of a West African Coastal Lagoon System: Case of Lake Nokoué with Its Inlet (Cotonou, South Benin).” DOI: 10.3390/ecologies3040033 — This paper characterizes the physical and ecological properties of a critical lagoon system.

“Prediction of the distribution of shrimp species found in southern Benin through the Lake Nokoué-Ocean complex.” DOI: 10.37722/JAMBE.2022201 — A predictive model of shrimp species distribution that assists in resource management strategies.

📌 Conclusion

Professor Zacharie Sohou’s extensive experience, impactful research, and leadership in marine and fisheries science have positioned him as a key figure in the sustainable management of marine resources in West Africa. His contributions to international marine biodiversity initiatives and his dedication to educating the next generation of scientists continue to inspire advancements in oceanography and fisheries management.

Qian LI | Marine Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Qian LI | Marine Biology | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Shanghai Jiao Tong University | China

Strengths for the Award

1. Research Impact and Innovation 🔬
Dr. Qian Li has made significant contributions to marine science, particularly in understanding marine microorganisms’ ecological and biogeochemical roles. Her research on mixotrophic eukaryotes, phytoplankton responses to climate change, and marine carbon dioxide removal has advanced our knowledge of marine ecosystems and their responses to environmental changes. Publications such as “Prevalence and Preferred Niche of Small Eukaryotes with Mixotrophic Potentials in the Global Ocean” (2024) highlight her cutting-edge work and innovative approaches in marine biology.

2. Academic and Professional Excellence 🎓
Dr. Li’s academic credentials are impressive, with a Ph.D. in Environmental Science and postdoctoral experiences at prestigious institutions, including the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and the University of Amsterdam. Her dual roles as a researcher at the University of Hawai‘i and a tenure-track Associate Professor at Shanghai Jiao Tong University reflect her commitment to both research and education.

3. Publication Record 📚
Dr. Li’s publication record is robust, including 14 publications with 7 as first author. Notable journals such as ISME Journal and Limnology and Oceanography demonstrate her work’s quality and impact. The prominence of her work is further evidenced by her extensive citation record, which underscores her influence in the field.

4. Funded Research and Grants 💰
Dr. Li has successfully secured significant funding for her research, including grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China. Her ability to attract funding indicates the high regard in which her research is held and the practical implications of her work in marine science.

5. Teaching and Mentoring 👩‍🏫
Dr. Li’s teaching roles at both Shanghai Jiao Tong University and the University of Hawai‘i reflect her dedication to education. Her mentoring of graduate and undergraduate students highlights her commitment to developing the next generation of marine scientists.

Short Bio 🌊

Dr. Qian (Lydia) Li is a Tenure-Track Associate Professor at the School of Oceanography, Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), and a Researcher at the School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. Her research focuses on the ecological and biogeochemical roles of marine microorganisms, particularly their trophic interactions and responses to climate change. She is dedicated to advancing solutions for marine carbon dioxide removal.

Profile

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Education 🎓

Dr. Li completed her Ph.D. in Environmental Science at Xiamen University, China, in July 2015, with a 16-month exchange program at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. She earned her B.Sc. in Environmental Science from Yantai University, China, in June 2008.

Experience 🏛️

Dr. Li has held several academic positions: she is currently a Tenure-Track Associate Professor at SJTU and a Researcher at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa. She served as a Tenure-Track Assistant Professor at SJTU from January 2021 to December 2022. Her postdoctoral research included roles at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa and the University of Amsterdam.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Li’s research delves into the ecological and biogeochemical implications of marine microorganisms’ functions, with a focus on their trophic modes and biotic interactions. She also investigates biological responses to climate change and the development of marine carbon dioxide removal solutions.

Awards 🏆

  • 2021 State-Level Talent Award: Awarded by the Shanghai Municipal Committee of Science and Technology, recognizing her contributions to marine science.

Publications 📚

Dong K.Y., Wang Y., Zhang W.J., and Li Q. (2024). Prevalence and Preferred Niche of Small Eukaryotes with Mixotrophic Potentials in the Global Ocean. Microorganisms, 12: 750.

Li Q., Edwards K. F., Schvarcz C. R. and Steward G. F. (2022). Broad phylogenetic and functional diversity among mixotrophic consumers of Prochlorococcus. ISME Journal.

Li Q., Edwards K. F., Schvarcz C. R., Selph K. E. and Steward G. F. (2021). Plasticity in the Grazing Ecophysiology of Florenciella (Dictyochophyceae). Limnology and Oceanography, 66: 47-60.

Conclusion

Dr. Qian Li’s distinguished career in marine science, marked by innovative research, substantial publications, and successful funding, makes her an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her work has significantly advanced our understanding of marine microorganisms and their ecological roles, contributing to both scientific knowledge and practical environmental solutions. Addressing areas for improvement, such as expanding collaborative networks and enhancing public engagement, could further elevate her already impressive achievements. Overall, Dr. Li’s dedication to marine science, coupled with her impactful research and educational contributions, makes her a deserving nominee for this prestigious award.