Dr Saman Zehra, a researcher at the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), has been awarded the prestigious Young Scientist Award at ICC 2025.
Aligarh Muslim University:
Dr Saman Zehra, a researcher at the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), has been awarded the prestigious Young Scientist Award at ICC 2025.
Dr Saman Zehra won the award at the second edition of International Conference in Chemistry 2025 held at Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU) Hyderabad.
Dr Saman’s research was on “Smart Multi-Functional Coatings for Controlled Corrosion Protection,” contributing to sustainable materials.
Dr. Saman Zehra is a researcher under the Women Scientist Program (WOS-A) of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) at the Department of Applied Chemistry, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU).
Dr Saman, who completed her Ph.D. under Professor Mohammad Mobin at AMU, presented her research under the mentorship of Prof. Rais Ahmad.
AMU’s Department of Applied Sciences was established in 1958 in the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, which was subsequently split into 3 sections namely, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics. In 1988, the Chemistry section was upgraded to a full-fledged Department of Applied Chemistry.
source: http://www.ummid.com / Ummid.com / Home> Science & Technology / by ummid.com, science desk / February 26th, 2025
Dr. Fatima Jalid, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, has been recognized in the newly published book She Is – 75 Women in Chemistry.
Published by Beyond Black in collaboration with the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India and the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), UK, the book was unveiled on February 6 at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) in Bhopal. It is the fourth edition in the She Is series and highlights the achievements of 75 Indian women making remarkable contributions in chemistry and related fields.
The book, authored by Elsa Marie D’Silva and Supreet K Singh, sheds light on the journeys of women from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities who have persevered against challenges to establish themselves in the field of chemistry. The authors emphasize that these women serve as beacons of inspiration, proving that determination and dedication can lead to excellence in scientific research.
Dr. Jalid’s research at NIT Srinagar focuses on developing chemical compounds and processes with applications in material science, environmental chemistry, and biotechnology. By integrating interdisciplinary approaches, she has advanced scientific knowledge in both theoretical and applied chemistry.
In a male-dominated field, Dr. Jalid has emerged as a role model for aspiring women in STEM. Her mentorship has created an inclusive academic environment at NIT Srinagar, encouraging more female students to pursue careers in scientific research. Actively involved in initiatives promoting women in science, she has organized workshops, seminars, and outreach programs to enhance female representation in STEM fields.
Believing that science should be accessible to all, Dr. Jalid advocates for inclusivity in research, ensuring that knowledge benefits society beyond socio-economic and gender barriers. Her published research papers in reputed international journals have received significant citations, further cementing her impact in the field.
The book She Is – 75 Women in Chemistry is available online for purchase at ₹1,645.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Focus> Markers of Excellence / by Radiance News Bureau / February 16th, 2025
In a landmark achievement, the Government of India has recently awarded Patent No. 556810 to Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) scholars Dr. Tanveer Ahmad, an Assistant Professor, and his PhD student, Miss Nisha Chaudhary, from the Multidisciplinary Centre for Advanced Research & Studies (MCARS) at JMI.
The patent granted on December 24, 2024, recognises their pioneering invention titled “A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GENOMIC MARKERS AND DIGITAL PATHOLOGY IMAGE-BASED PREDICTION OF ORAL MALIGNANT DISORDERS.”
Their innovative methodology, developed in collaboration with partners, leverages artificial intelligence (AI) and digital pathology to enhance the diagnosis and prediction of oral cancer.
Miss Nisha Chaudhary and Dr. Tanveer Ahmed
This advanced system can study tissue images to identify if they are linked to oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF), oral leukoplakia (OLL), oral lichen planus (OLP), or oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). For OSCC, it can also determine how severe the cancer is—welldifferentiated, moderately differentiated, or poorly differentiated—using AI technology. The system predicts the chances of OSMF or OLP/OLL developing into OSCC, giving doctors helpful information about risks. By using genetic markers and digital tools, it provides clear treatment insights and lowers diagnostic costs compared to traditional methods. This invention is set to transform oral cancer detection by making it more affordable and accurate.
In addition to the patent, the research team has recently achieved another significant milestone with their publication in Scientific Data, a high impact factor (9.8) journal from the Nature Publishing Group. Their paper, “High-resolution AI image dataset for diagnosing oral submucous fibrosis and squamous cell carcinoma,” highlights the dataset underpinning their innovation, offering a valuable resource for researchers worldwide.
This accomplishment is shared with distinguished collaborators, including Dr. Akhilanand Chaurasia, Dr. Arpita Rai, Dr. Deepika Mishra, and Dr. Charbel Darido, whose contributions have been pivotal.
Together, these achievements have significant implications for medical treatment, underscoring the transformative potential of AI-driven solutions in digital pathology and oral cancer research, marking a significant leap toward improved diagnostic and prognostic outcomes.
Professor Mohammad Husain, Director of MCARS at JMI, congratulated all who were part of the study and expressed pride in the achievement.
source: http:/www.jmi.ac.in / Jamia Millia Islamia / Home / by Public Relations Office / December 31st, 2024
Syed Aslam (62), retired Nuclear Scientist of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Yelwal and a resident of Kalyanagiri Nagar, passed away yesterday in city.
He leaves behind his wife, two sons and a host of relatives and friends.
Namaz-e-Janaza was held today at Abi Akhil Masjid at Azeez Sait Nagar after Namaz Zahur (1.30 pm), followed by the burial at the Muslim Burial Grounds near Tipu Circle.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> Obituary / January 13th, 2025
UK research team makes significant discovery on path to develop vaccine against global viruses
It’s very pleasing to know that a major breakthrough happened in the global biological science research and innovation of a life-saving vaccine has Bihar connection. Dr. Mumtaz Naiyer, a postdoctoral scientist at University of Southampton, UK originally hailing from Kishanganj (Bihar) with his team has made a significant discovery in efforts to develop a vaccine against Zika, dengue and Hepatitis C viruses that affect millions of people around the world. In a study published in Science Immunology, researchers have shown that natural killer cells (NK cells), which are a fundamental part of the body’s immune system, can recognise many different viruses including global pathogens such as Zika, dengue and Hepatitis C viruses, through a single receptor called KIR2DS2.
A native of Thakurganj (Kishanganj), Dr. Mumtaz Naiyer, the first author of the paper, said: “This is a well-presented study and a significant advancement in this field that identifies the important role of the receptor KIR2DS2. Since I come from India, which has thousands of cases of dengue each year, I can understand the suffering of patients with dengue. Nothing would give me greater pleasure than to ease the suffering of these dengue-affected patients.”
The study, which was funded by the Wellcome Trust and the Medical Research Council, analysed DNA from more than 300 patients exposed to the Hepatitis C virus, which showed that the KIR2DS2 receptor was associated with successfully clearing the virus. The team then identified that the immune system targeted the NS3 helicase protein of this using the receptor and found that it prevented the virus multiplying. They went on to demonstrate that this same mechanism could be important for many different viruses for example the Zika and dengue viruses, which also contain a region within their NS3 helicase protein that is recognised by the KIR2DS2 receptor.
The researchers now need to determine whether these KIR2DS2+ NK cells are protective during acute flaviviral infections, and are hoping to develop a vaccine that targets natural killer cells. They believe that a similar process could be used to target cancer.
Lead researcher Salim Khakoo, Professor of Hepatology, said the findings are very exciting and could change the way viruses are targeted by vaccines but warned that the research is still at an early stage, and animal studies/clinical trials will be needed to test the findings.
Professor Khakoo added: “Cancer treatments that use the body’s own immune system are becoming more common. Our findings present a completely new strategy for virus therapeutics which could be easily translated into the field of cancer. The next few years are going to be very exciting in this field.”
Giving back to the community that has supported them for over 30 years was so important to Tasneem and Shafiq Khaleel that they set up an endowed scholarship at MSU Billings in 2006. The Khaleels place a high value on education and where it can take you in life. From the moment Billings, Montana, became their home, they have reached out to the community to share their Indian culture and to offer help to those in need or educate those who would discriminate against them.
Since those early years at MSU Billings, Dr. Tasneem Khaleel has achieved full professor, was chair of the Biological and Physical Sciences department for many years, served as chair of Graduate Studies, and was Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Shafiq Khaleel has built a successful veterinary practice and a rose garden that is the envy of Billings. According to Tasneem, “We both came to this country with an education that has allowed us to be who we are today. If the scholarship allows even one student to achieve his/her goals, it will be one more educated citizen who will have the potential to make a difference.”
The Tasneem and Shafiq Khaleel Endowed Scholarship was designed to help motivated students achieve their goals and ease some of their financial burden in completing their education. The first scholarship was awarded in academic year 2008-2009.
Impact
I am humbled to have been given the opportunity to receive the special scholarship from you both. Dr. Tasneem Khaleel, you have been a role model for me since I had you as my first science class professor at MSUB. I was honored to meet Dr. Shafiq and shake your hand that one afternoon when you picked Dr. Khaleel up from work. The scholarship you both have provided will give me the opportunity to help pay for my college another year at MSUB; it will forever be remembered. Impacting my life to support one more year of school is a stepping stone that will forever support my future endeavors. Again, thank you.” — Sarah G., Biology and Pre-Professional Medicine major
Jamia Millia Islamia Professor Dr Mohammad Mahfuzul Haque has made the university proud.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has granted Dr. Mohammad Mahfuzul Haque, a professor in the Department of Biotechnology, a prestigious research grant of approximately Rs 65 lakhs.
This highly competitive grant underscores Prof. Haque’s outstanding contributions to the field of molecular enzymology and will support groundbreaking research in the area of cardiovascular diseases and lung cancer.
The ICMR grant, recognised as one of the highest honours for medical research in India, will enable Prof. Haque and his team to gain more insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying iNOS involvement in lung cancer pathogenesis, potentially identifying therapeutic targets and developing novel treatment strategies for combating lung cancer. The project is intended to address significant challenges in lung cancer and aims to produce outcomes that may significantly influence healthcare practices in India and globally.
Prof. Mazhar Asif, the Vice Chancellor and Prof. Md. Mahtab Alam Rizvi, the Registrar of JMI congratulated Dr. Haque and remarked: “This is a moment of pride for our institution. Prof. Mohammad Mahfuzul Haque’s recognition by ICMR reflects our commitment to fostering excellence in research and innovation. We look forward to the transformative impact of this work.”
Commenting on the achievement, Prof. Mohammad Mahfuzul Haque said: “I am deeply honored to receive this grant from ICMR. It represents a significant opportunity to advance our research and contribute to improving health outcomes for millions. I am grateful to my team, my institution JMI, and ICMR for their support and encouragement.”
The grant will provide funding for three years, facilitating advanced experimentation, collaboration with leading experts, and the development of innovative approaches. This initiative aligns with ICMR’s mission to promote cutting-edge research and address pressing healthcare challenges facing India.
Dr. Haque is a renowned molecular enzymologist and his research focuses on the biochemistry, structure and function of Nitric Oxide synthase and other flavoproteins, which play a significant role in cardiovascular diseases, pulmonary hypertension and cancer.
Dr. Haque joined the Department of Biotechnology, JMI in 2017 and from 2017 to 2020, he served as Head of the Department of Biotechnology.
Prior to his appointment at JMI, Prof. Haque served as a faculty member in Molecular Medicine at the esteemed Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
He has won accolades and awards in the United States and got many funds from various funding agencies of the Government of India.
source: http://www.okhlatimes.com / The Okhla Times / Home> JMI/EDU / by The Okhla Times (edited) / November 21st, 2024
Work in AI breast cancer treatment is going on and Dr Khalid Raza has bagged Rs 94 lakh ICMR grant for AI breast cancer treatment..
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has selected Dr Raza and his team for a research grant of nearly ₹94 lakh for breast cancer treatment.
The funding is given to him for his earlier contributions to using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in drug design.
Dr Raza is Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science, Jamia Millia Islamia.
AI breast cancer treatment: Dr Raza achievement This grant is expected to play an important role in advancing innovative research aimed at using AI to develop precise and effective treatments for breast cancer.
Now, Dr Raza and his team will focus on developing advanced tools for AI-driven drug design. Their work will center on optimising drug compounds, pinpointing therapeutic targets, and creating innovative treatment strategies for breast cancer.
One such promising drug compound, DdpMPyPEPhU, already patented by Dr. Raza will be further explored under this initiative.
This research tackles key challenges in breast cancer treatment and is poised to deliver transformative results that could have a global impact on healthcare practices.
Both Professor Mazhar Asif, Vice-Chancellor of Jamia, and Professor Md Mahtab Alam Rizvi, Registrar, congratulated Dr Raza on his outstanding achievement.
“This is a moment of great pride for Jamia. Dr. Raza’s recognition by ICMR highlights the university’s dedication to promoting research excellence and innovation,” said the VC.
Groundbreaking work in AI breast cancer treatment His groundbreaking work showcases Jamia’s vital contributions to integrating AI in healthcare research, said VC Asif.
Dr Raza said: “I am honoured to be selected for this ICMR grant. This is an opportunity to further our research in AI-driven drug design and make a meaningful contribution to improving health outcomes for millions. I am deeply grateful to my research team, collaborators, and ICMR for their continuous support.”
The three-year funding will facilitate advanced experimentation, foster collaboration with leading experts, and accelerate the development of innovative solutions for breast cancer treatment. This initiative aligns closely with ICMR’s mission to support cutting-edge research addressing India’s critical healthcare challenges.
AI breast cancer treatment: Dr Raza a distinguished researcher Dr Raza is a distinguished researcher in the application of AI in healthcare, focusing on designing and optimising drug compounds through AI-based multitarget docking, molecular simulations, and genomics-driven personalised medicine. Award and grants are not something new for Dr Raza. Stanford University recognised him among the world’s top 2 per cent scientists from 2021-2023.
Dr Raza has served in various academic and administrative roles at Jamia.
He has published over 140 research articles in prestigious journals, conference proceedings, 14 authored/edited books, and held notable positions, including ICCR Chair Visiting Professor of Computer and Information Sciences at Ain Shams University, Egypt, and is an honorary research fellow at INTI International University, Malaysia.
Dr Raza also serves as Associate Editor for PeerJ Computer Science and Guest Editor for esteemed journals like npj Precision Oncology, Natural Product Communications, and Mini-Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry. His remarkable contributions to the scientific community and Jamia are truly remarkable!
This grant represents a convergence of excellence, with the potential to revolutionise breast cancer treatment and affirm Jamia’s status as a hub for transformative research.
source: http://www.okhlatimes.com / The Okhla Times / Home> JMI/EDU / by The Okhla Times (edited) / November 30th, 2024
Dr Nishat Afroz receives the international award for research and innovation in medical sciences
Aligarh:
Dr Nishat Afroz, Professor, Department of Pathology, JN Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) has been honoured with the award of “Distinguished Researcher in Histopathology” for her contribution and achievement in the discipline of Health and Medical Sciences by the Venus International Foundation.
The award was bestowed upon her at the 10th Annual Research Meet – ARM 2024 on the theme “Diverse Approach to Address Societal Challenges and Deliver Novel Solutions”, organised by the Centre for Research and Innovation – Venus International Foundation at Chennai.
Earlier, Dr Nishat Afroz attended the Pathology Conferences at Subharti Medical College Meerut, Narayana hospital & RN Tagore Medical College, Kolkata and SMS Medical College, Jaipur as guest speaker and workshop convener.
source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Pride of the Nation. Awards> Focus / by Radiance News Bureau / December 12th, 2024
Dr. Rubul Ahmed with a patient at his no-fees clinic
At a time when doctors are charging exorbitant fees in the name of treatment and the skyrocketing prices of medicines have cut big holes in patients’ pockets, a young doctor in Assam has become a messiah for many patients.
Dr Rubul Ahmed from Assam’s Bongaigaon district has started a free health camp every Thursday for a week to treat poor and needy patients. Dr Ahmed is a doctor working in Bongaigaon Civil Hospital in lower Assam.
Dr. Ahmed has been providing free health services to patients at Assam Medicine Centre, a private pharmacy located in Dhantula Bazar, Bangagaon every Thursday. His great work is being encouraged and supported by a voluntary organization called ‘Drishti’ About 50 to 80 patients, both male and female, are receiving free medical services from Dr. Rubul Ahmed in each health camp.
Dr. Rubul Ahmed
In an interview with Awaz-The Voice, Dr. Ahmed said; “I grew up in an underdeveloped area of Bongaigaon district with a mixed population. The love and blessings of the people of our area have motivated me to become a doctor. I will always be grateful to them. Most people in my area cannot afford costly advanced treatment. So, I have decided to help them by organizing a free health camp every Thursday for a week.”
Dr. Ahmed lost his father when he was a child. His mother worked very hard to educate him. Till the time he got admission to pursue an MBBS course to become a doctor, there was no electricity at his home. “So, I understand the plight of the poor people,” he said.
“After passing my MBBS examination from Gauhati Medical College in 2014, I worked as Chief Emergency Medical Officer at Nemecare Hospital in Guwahati. Then I worked as a doctor in a state hospital in Dhubri district under the National Health Mission. In January 2021, I joined Bangagaon Civil Hospital,” said Dr. Rubul Ahmed.
Patients waiting for their turn at the free camp organised by Dr Rubul Ahmed
“If we run after money every moment of our lives. So when will we work for people? I try to help people with the medical knowledge I have learned. After receiving free medical care from me, they can buy two good medicines with the money that ordinary people in this area normally use to pay doctor fees. If a very poor person comes to me for treatment, I will buy medicine for them with my own money,” Dr Ahmed said.
Dr. Rubul Ahmed has undertaken this great work in tribute to his late father Rahmanuddin Ahmed and his late mother Rupjan Begum. Dr. Rubul Ahmed’s great efforts will benefit many poor people in the Dhantula area in Bongaigaon district. He is committed and determined to continue his free treatment of patients till his last breath.
source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Story / by Ariful Islam, Guwahati / December 11th, 2024
