Waldo Ullah | Biochemical Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Waldo Ullah | Biochemical Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant professor at Pontifical Catholic University of Valparaíso, Chile.

🔬 Short Biography 🌿💊📚

Dr. Waldo Acevedo Castillo 🧑‍🔬 is an Associate Professor at the Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso 🇨🇱. With a Ph.D. and M.Sc. in Engineering Sciences from Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile 🎓, Dr. Acevedo has established himself as a pioneer in food chemistry and structural bioinformatics 🧪. His research focuses on the molecular characterization of organoleptic food additives 🍬 and rational drug design 💊. He has published extensively in high-impact journals and contributed to multiple interdisciplinary projects in biochemistry and pharmacology. Passionate about teaching and mentoring 👨‍🏫, he guides undergraduate and graduate students in bioinformatics and biochemical research. Dr. Acevedo also plays an active role in academic peer review, editorial boards, and science outreach 🌍. His career blends deep scientific inquiry with educational innovation and societal engagement, making him a dynamic force in the global chemistry community 🌐.

PROFILE 

SCOPUS 

ORCID 

🔍 Summary of Suitability:

Dr. Waldo Acevedo Castillo exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher, with a strong foundation in computational bioinformatics, food chemistry, and biochemical pharmacology. As an Associate Professor at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, he has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, interdisciplinary innovation, and impactful research. His academic background, scientific publications, mentorship, and leadership roles underscore a career devoted to advancing molecular science and contributing to global health and nutrition challenges.

📘 Education & Experience

  • 🎓 Ph.D. in Engineering Sciences, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (2017)

  • 🎓 M.Sc. in Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile (2016)

  • 📚 Diploma in University Teaching, PUCV (2019)

  • 📚 Diploma in Virtual University Training, PUCV (2020)

  • 💻 Graduate in Bioinformatics, Universidad de Talca (2009)

  • 👨‍🏫 Associate Professor, Institute of Chemistry, PUCV

  • 🧬 Bioinformatics Engineer, Universidad de Talca (2009)

  • 📖 Scientific Reviewer, multiple journals including Food Chemistry and Scientific Reports

  • 🔬 Editorial Board Member, Pharmaceutics and Drug Innovation, Journal of Drug Design and Research

Professional Development 🚀📖

Dr. Waldo Acevedo continuously enhances his professional skills through diverse academic and research activities 📈. He has completed numerous training programs in virtual education, AI in teaching, curriculum development, and project formulation at PUCV 🎓. His involvement in interdisciplinary projects spans vertical farming 🌿, enzymatic hydrolysis, and drug formulation for dermatological conditions 🧴. As a mentor, he has supervised numerous undergraduate and postgraduate theses 🧑‍🎓. Dr. Acevedo actively contributes to international research communities as a reviewer and editorial board member 📰. He is also a dedicated science communicator, promoting STEM outreach through the Explora Academies of Research and School Innovation 🧠. His collaborative spirit has led to roles in national research grants and innovation-driven projects 💡. His work bridges cutting-edge science, education, and public engagement, positioning him as a multifaceted professional in molecular chemistry, bioinformatics, and pharmacological sciences 🌍.

Research Focus 🔍🤖

Dr. Waldo Acevedo’s research centers around Food Chemistry, Biochemical Pharmacology, and Structural Bioinformatics 🔍. He investigates the molecular interactions of food additives, especially sweeteners, with human taste receptors 🍭. His research applies computational tools like molecular docking and dynamics to understand taste perception and improve food quality. Additionally, Dr. Acevedo explores the rational design of anticancer and antimicrobial agents 🧬, targeting enzymes and proteins like SIRT2, EGFR, COX-2, and bitter taste receptors. He has participated in drug discovery efforts and virtual screening campaigns that integrate in silico and in vitro approaches 💊. His interdisciplinary projects have included work on skin microbiome modulation, environmental toxicology, and salmon immunology 🐟. With a strong computational background, he brings innovation to molecular modeling, offering insights into bioactive compound mechanisms and receptor-ligand interactions 🔬. His research contributes significantly to both health and food sciences 🌿.

Awards and Honors 🏆🎖️

  • 🧑‍⚖️ Peer Evaluator, CNA-Chile Postgraduate Area (2024–Present)

  • 🧠 Advisory Committee Member, Explora Academies of Research and School Innovation (2024–Present)

  • 🧬 Review Editor, Frontiers in Genome Editing (2024–Present)

  • 📝 Editorial Board Member, Pharmaceutics and Drug Innovation & Journal of Drug Design and Research (2023–Present)

  • 🌐 Chief of Outreach, Institute of Chemistry, PUCV (2023–Present)

  • 🧪 Member, Society of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Chile (SBBMCh) (2022–Present)

  • 📚 Board Collaborator, Doctorate Program in Chemistry, PUCV (2018–Present)

  • 🏆 Best Graduate Award, Universidad de Talca (2009)

  • 🌟 Stimulus to Effort Award, Gabriel & Mary Mustakis Foundation (1999)

  • 🗣️ CONICYT Doctoral Scholarship, Chile (2013–2016)

  • 🇬🇧 CORFO English Scholarship, for Global Services Industry (2010)

Publications & Citations 📚

  • Golcienė, B., Kavaliauskas, P., Acevedo, W., et al. (2025).
    Identification of 3-[(4-Acetylphenyl)(4-Phenylthiazol-2-Yl)Amino]Propanoic Acid Derivatives as Promising Anticancer Candidates Targeting SIRT2 and EGFR.
    Pharmaceuticals, 18(5). https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18050733

  • Kavaliauskas, P., Acevedo, W., et al. (2025).
    3,3′-((3-Hydroxyphenyl)azanediyl)dipropionic Acid Derivatives Against Drug-Resistant Pathogens and Cancer.
    Pathogens, 14(5), 484. https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14050484

  • Maldonado, J., Oliva, A., Guzmán, L., Molinari, A., Acevedo, W. (2024).
    Synthesis and Anticancer Activity of Hydroquinone-Chalcone-Pyrazoline Hybrids.
    International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25, 7281. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25137281

  • Kavaliauskas, P., Acevedo, W., et al. (2024).
    Bis(thiazol-5-yl)phenylmethane Derivatives Against MDR Staphylococcus aureus.
    PLOS ONE, 19(3), e0300380. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0300380

  • Maldonado, J., Oliva, A., Molinari, A., Acevedo, W. (2023).
    Naphthohydroquinone-Derived Chalcones as Anticancer Agents.
    Molecules, 28, 7172. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules28207172

  • Acevedo, W., Morán-Figueroa, R., Vargas-Chacoff, L., Morera, F. J., Pontigo, J. P. (2023).
    NLRP3 Inflammasome in Salmo salar: Structural and Transcriptomic Insights.
    International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24, 14556. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241914556

  • Maldonado, J., Acevedo, W., et al. (2022).
    Naphthoisoxazolequinone Carboxamides as Antitumor Agents.
    Polycyclic Aromatic Compounds, 42(4), 1–24. https://doi.org/10.1080/10406638.2022.2095410

  • Kavaliauskas, P., Acevedo, W., et al. (2022).
    Naphthoquinone Derivatives Targeting COX-2.
    Pharmaceuticals, 15, 541. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph15050541

  • Balada, C., Castro, M., Fassio, C., Zamora, A., Marchant, M. J., Acevedo, W., Guzmán, L. (2021).
    Genetic Diversity of Curcuma longa from Rapa Nui.
    Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences, 28, 707–716. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sjbs.2020.10.062

  • Acevedo, W., Cañón, P., Gómez, F., Huerta, J., Aguayo, D., Agosin, E. (2020).
    L-Malate Protonation and Malolactic Enzyme Activity in Oenococcus oeni.
    Molecules, 25(15), 3431–3447. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25153431

🔍 Conclusion:

Dr. Waldo Acevedo Castillo stands out as a multidisciplinary researcher whose work bridges computational biology, food sciences, and pharmacology. His contributions have real-world relevance—from drug development to food safety—and his dedication to mentoring and collaborative science magnifies his impact. These attributes align perfectly with the ethos of the Best Researcher Award, making him a strong and deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.

 

 

Joana Ferreira | Bioactive Properties | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Joana Ferreira | Bioactive Properties | Best Researcher Award

Teacher at Santarém Higher School of Agriculture in Portugal.

🌍 Joana Patrícia Araújo Ferreira is a dedicated researcher and lecturer specializing in food chemistry, biorefinery, and sustainable food innovation. 🎓 She holds a PhD in Chemistry (2014) from the University of Aveiro and is an integrated member of LEAF – Linking Landscape, Environment, Agriculture, and Food. With over 30 peer-reviewed publications 📄, her research focuses on food product characterization, microalgae-based ingredients, and circular economy approaches. 🍏🔬 As a lecturer at the Polytechnic Institute of Santarém, she teaches bioproducts development and food biotechnology. Passionate about sustainability and innovation, she actively contributes to advancing food science and environmental research. 🌱✨

 

Professional Profile

Suitability for the Best  Researcher Award 🏆

Joana Patrícia Araújo Ferreira is an outstanding researcher with a strong background in food chemistry, biorefinery, and sustainability. With a PhD in Chemistry and a proven track record of over 30 peer-reviewed publications, she has significantly contributed to food innovation, analytical chemistry, and circular economy approaches. Her expertise in microalgae-based food products, valorization of food industry by-products, and bioactive compounds makes her a leading scientist in her field.

Education 🎓

  • PhD in Chemistry (2014) – University of Aveiro 🧪📚
    • Thesis: “Síntese e Transformações de compostos do tipo pirazol e 1,2,3-triazol”
  • Master in Organic Chemistry and Natural Products (2008) – University of Aveiro 🌿🔬
    • Thesis: “Estudos de halogenação de 5-estiril-3-(2-hidroxifenil)-1H-pirazóis”
  • Degree in Chemistry (2006) – University of Lisbon 🏛️⚛️
    • Thesis: “Estudo dos Constituintes e da Bioatividade de Extractos Anti-hiperglicemiantes de Genista tenera”
  • Specialization Courses & Workshops:
    • Biomedical Inorganic Chemistry – Applications in Diagnosis & Therapy 🏥⚗️
    • Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry for heavy metal detection 🌊🧴
    • Marine Lipidomics & Algae Bioactives for Health 🌊🧬

Professional Experience 🏥

  • Lecturer (2023-Present) – Polytechnic Institute of Santarém 🎓📖
    • Teaching Bioproducts Development, Food Biotechnology, Instrumental Analysis, Human Nutrition, and Biochemistry
  • Junior Researcher (2021-Present) – LEAF Research Center 🌱🔍
    • Research on food sustainability, microalgae-based products, and circular economy
  • Lecturer (2021-Present) – Instituto Superior de Agronomia 🏫🧑‍🏫
  • Research Fellow (2014-2021) – Forest Research Center, Instituto Superior de Agronomia 🌳🔬
    • Focus on biorefinery, sustainable food products, and bioactive compounds
  • Researcher (2007-2014) – University of Aveiro & University of Lisbon 🏛️🔬
    • Conducted studies in natural products synthesis and analytical chemistry
  • Health & Safety Trainer (2013-2014) – Génios Livres 🏥⚖️
  • Scientific Project Coordinator & Team Member in multiple international and national research projects 🌍🔬

Professional Development 🚀📖

Joana Patrícia Araújo Ferreira is a dedicated researcher and educator committed to advancing food chemistry and sustainability. 🧪🌱 She continuously enhances her expertise through specialized courses in marine lipidomics, biorefinery, and green chemistry. 📚💡 As a lecturer and researcher, she actively mentors students and contributes to cutting-edge projects on microalgae-based food innovations, bioactive compounds, and circular economy. 🌍🔬 She has attended numerous international workshops, conferences, and research collaborations, strengthening her proficiency in analytical techniques, spectroscopy, and bioprocessing technologies. 🎤📊 Passionate about innovation, she integrates sustainability and health-driven solutions into food science. 🍏🔍

 

Research Focus 🔍🤖

Joana Patrícia Araújo Ferreira’s research spans multiple scientific disciplines, focusing on food chemistry, biorefinery, and sustainable innovations. 🌱🍽️ She specializes in nutritional and chemical characterization of food products, microalgae-based food innovations, and valorization of food industry by-products. 🔍🌊 Her work in circular economy emphasizes waste reduction and resource optimization. She is also involved in analytical and organic chemistry, including natural product synthesis, structural elucidation, and green chemistry methodologies. ⚛️🧪 Additionally, she explores glyphosate’s impact on human health and the development of functional food products with enhanced sensory and technological properties. 🏥🌿

 

Awards & Honors 🏆
  • Short Term Scientific Mission (STSM) Grant (2015) – COST Action FP1203 🌍🔬
    • Recognized for contributions to Non-Wood Forest Products Research at the University of Ljubljana, Slovenia.
  • PhD Research Grant (2009) – Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT) 🎓⚛️
    • Awarded a prestigious doctoral research fellowship for studies in organic and analytical chemistry.
  • Treaty of Windsor Anglo-Portuguese Joint Research Programme (2006) – British Council 🇬🇧🇵🇹
    • Selected for an international research collaboration between University of Lisbon and University of York.
  • Bronze Award (2024) – AlgaEurope Conference 🥉🌊
    • Awarded for poster presentation on the sensory profile of microalgae.

 

Publication Top Notes:

1️⃣ Ingestion of microplastics by commercial fish off the Portuguese coast – D Neves, P Sobral, JL Ferreira, T Pereira | Marine Pollution Bulletin 101 (1), 119-126 | 📅 2015 | 🔗 Cited by: 1093

2️⃣ Amberstripe scad Decapterus muroadsi (Carangidae) fish ingest blue microplastics resembling their copepod prey along the coast of Rapa Nui (Easter Island) in the South Pacific – NC Ory, P Sobral, JL Ferreira, M Thiel | Science of the Total Environment 586, 430-437 | 📅 2017 | 🔗 Cited by: 686

3️⃣ Low prevalence of microplastic contamination in planktivorous fish species from the southeast Pacific Ocean – N Ory, C Chagnon, F Felix, C Fernández, JL Ferreira, C Gallardo, … | Marine Pollution Bulletin 127, 211-216 | 📅 2018 | 🔗 Cited by: 281

4️⃣ Microplastics in sediments from the littoral zone of the north Tunisian coast (Mediterranean Sea) – S Abidli, JC Antunes, JL Ferreira, Y Lahbib, P Sobral, NT El Menif | Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science 205, 1-9 | 📅 2018 | 🔗 Cited by: 266

5️⃣ Plastic and other microfibers in sediments, macroinvertebrates and shorebirds from three intertidal wetlands of southern Europe and west Africa – PM Lourenço, C Serra-Gonçalves, JL Ferreira, T Catry, JP Granadeiro | Environmental Pollution 231, 123-133 | 📅 2017 | 🔗 Cited by: 246

6️⃣ Plastic ingestion and trophic transfer between Easter Island flying fish (Cheilopogon rapanouiensis) and yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) from Rapa Nui (Easter Island) – C Chagnon, M Thiel, J Antunes, JL Ferreira, P Sobral, NC Ory | Environmental Pollution 243, 127-133 | 📅 2018 | 🔗 Cited by: 154

7️⃣ Ungulates and their management in Portugal – J Vingada, C Fonseca, J Cancela, J Ferreira, C Eira | European Ungulates and their Management in the 21st Century 392 | 📅 2010 | 🔗 Cited by: 62

8️⃣ Poly (vinyl acetate) paints in works of art: A photochemical approach. Part 1 – JL Ferreira, MJ Melo, AM Ramos | Polymer Degradation and Stability 95 (4), 453-461 | 📅 2010 | 🔗 Cited by: 55

9️⃣ Shedding new light on polyurethane degradation: Assessing foams condition in design objects – SF de Sá, JL Ferreira, IP Cardoso, R Macedo, AM Ramos | Polymer Degradation and Stability 144, 354-365 | 📅 2017 | 🔗 Cited by: 40

🔟 Characterization and long-term stability of historical PMMA: impact of additives and acrylic sheet industrial production processes – S Babo, JL Ferreira, AM Ramos, A Micheluz, M Pamplona, MH Casimiro, … | Polymers 12 (10), 2198 | 📅 [Year Not Specified] | 🔗 Cited by: 32

🎯 Conclusion:

Joana Ferreira is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given her exceptional contributions to scientific research, innovation in sustainable food chemistry, and dedication to mentoring the next generation of researchers. Her work has a profound impact on food science, sustainability, and human health, making her an ideal choice for this prestigious recognition. 🌍🔬👏