Lorraine Evangelista | Food Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Food Scientist

Dr. Lorraine Evangelista | Food Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

University of California Irvine | United States

Lorraine S. Evangelista, Ph.D., RN, CNS, FAHA, FAAN, is an internationally recognized nurse scientist, educator, and leader in cardiovascular nursing research with a career spanning over three decades. She has held distinguished academic and research leadership roles at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, the University of Texas Medical Branch, and the University of California, Irvine, shaping nursing science, diversity, and mentorship initiatives. Her pioneering research has significantly advanced understanding of heart failure self-care, patient outcomes, and the integration of digital health technologies. She has published extensively in leading journals, contributed to global cardiovascular health guidelines, and secured major NIH and AHA grants to support her work. As Editor-in-Chief of Healthcare, she continues to influence scholarly discourse in nursing and public health. A dedicated mentor, she has guided numerous students, postdoctoral fellows, and early-career faculty. Her contributions have been recognized with prestigious national and international honors in research, teaching, and mentorship.

Proffile:

Scopus

Orcid

Education:

Dr. Lorraine Evangelista educational journey reflects an exceptional commitment to nursing science and translational research. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (cum laude) from the University of the Philippines , receiving the BM Gonzalez Award of Excellence. She pursued advanced clinical expertise with a Master of Science in Nursing, specializing as a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Cardiopulmonary Nursing, at the University of California, Los Angeles  Her passion for research led her to complete a Ph.D. in Nursing at UCLA, where she trained under nationally prominent nursing scholars. She was awarded multiple predoctoral fellowships from the American Heart Association and UCLA, supporting her early work in heart failure research. Following her doctoral studies, she completed a competitive postdoctoral fellowship with the American Heart Association at UCLA  and further pursued translational investigation training through the NIH K30 Graduate Training Program at UCLA , solidifying her expertise in biobehavioral and clinical research.

Experience:

Dr. Lorraine Evangelista has extensive professional experience spanning academia, clinical practice, leadership, and research. In academia, she has served as Professor, Associate Dean for Research, and Director of Ph.D. programs across top U.S. nursing schools, including UCLA, UC Irvine, UTMB, and UNLV, where she advanced diversity, equity, inclusion, and research scholarship. Beyond academic roles, she has contributed to healthcare practice and innovation as Research Scientist at Providence Health Care and Hoag Memorial Hospital, House Supervisor at St. Joseph Medical Center, and Cardiovascular Research Nurse Coordinator at Good Samaritan Hospital. She also directed research projects at UCLA and served as Associate Scientific Director at Scripps Translational Institute. Currently, she is Editor-in-Chief of Healthcare, leading international scholarly publishing. Her combined expertise in clinical nursing, hospital administration, research design, and academic leadership underscores her ability to integrate evidence-based practice, mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration, significantly influencing nursing science and patient care outcomes worldwide.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Lorraine Evangelista has earned a distinguished array of national and international awards recognizing her impact on nursing research, education, and leadership. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing, the American Heart Association, and the Heart Failure Society of America, reflecting her global influence in cardiovascular nursing. Her honors include the Sigma Theta Tau International Nurse Researcher Hall of Fame Award , the American Heart Association’s Katharine A. Lembright Award , and the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Award . She has received multiple mentorship and teaching awards, including Distinguished Mentor Awards from UC Irvine and UCLA, highlighting her dedication to developing future nurse scientists. The University of the Philippines honored her with the Distinguished Alumni Award in Nursing Research and Education . Other recognitions include the Western Institute of Nursing Distinguished Research Lectureship Award, UCLA Academic Senate Distinguished Teaching Award, and numerous American Heart Association research awards. Her accolades reflect excellence in research, education, service, and mentorship.

Research Focus:

Dr. Lorraine Evangelista research focuses on improving health outcomes in patients with heart failure by examining the biobehavioral, psychosocial, and biological factors that influence self-care, quality of life, and clinical outcomes. Her pioneering work integrates nutritional strategies, psychological well-being, and symptom management with advanced health technologies, bridging nursing science and biomedical innovation. She has conducted multiple NIH-funded studies exploring interventions such as high-protein diets, remote patient monitoring, machine learning-driven medication adherence tools, and smartphone-based supportive care strategies. Her work also emphasizes health equity, particularly addressing disparities among underserved populations, including Filipino and Latinx communities. Through interdisciplinary collaborations with biomedical engineers, computer scientists, and public health experts, she applies implementation science and big data analytics to design just-in-time adaptive interventions. Her research not only informs evidence-based practice but also contributes to global guidelines in cardiovascular nursing and palliative care, advancing innovation, equity, and patient-centered care in chronic illness management.

Publication:

Title: Collaborating with and enabling diverse communities to address health inequities: The experiences of a community engagement and outreach team
Year: 2025

Title: Hidden Malnutrition in Overweight and Obese Individuals with Chronic Heart Failure: Insights from the Pro-HEART Trial
Year: 2025

Title: Lessons Learned from Ten Years of the Mountain West Clinical and Translational Research Infrastructure Network: A Case Study from the Research Core
Year: 2025

Title: High-Protein Dietary Interventions in Heart Failure: A Systematic Review of Clinical and Functional Outcomes
Year: 2025

Title: Patient activation improves with a multi-component personalized mHealth intervention in older patients at risk of cardiovascular disease: a pilot randomized controlled trial
Year: 2025

Title: Bridging the Gap: Reducing Health Inequities in Access to Preventive Health Care Services in Rural Communities in the Philippines
Year: 2024

Title: Correlates of Psychological Distress Among Filipino Americans and Filipinos Living in Urban Areas in the United States and the Philippines
Year: 2023

Title: Depression Predicts Cardiac Cachexia in Heart Failure Patients
Year: 2023

Title: Technological machines and artificial intelligence in nursing practice
Year: 2023

Title: Risk factors associated with early postpartum glucose intolerance in women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Year: 2023

Title: Using the Socioecological Model to Explore Barriers to Health Care Provision in Underserved Communities in the Philippines: Qualitative Study
Year: 2023

Conclusion:

Dr. Lorraine Evangelista exemplifies the qualities of a best researcher awardee, bringing together rigorous scientific inquiry, impactful leadership, and a deep commitment to mentoring the next generation of nurse scientists. Her career achievements demonstrate not only academic and clinical excellence but also a vision for advancing health equity through innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and global engagement. With her exceptional track record of high-impact research, international recognition, and unwavering dedication to the advancement of nursing and healthcare science, she is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Hao Yu | Agricultural Economics | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Food Scientist

Dr. Hao Yu | Agricultural Economics | Best Researcher Award

Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University | China

Dr. Hao Yu is an academic specializing in agricultural economics and management with a strong focus on sustainable development, ecological economics, and rural revitalization in China, particularly through research on eco-product supply, green land utilization, and low-carbon agricultural practices; his scholarly journey integrates economics, public management, and agriculture to address the pressing challenges of balancing food security with ecological security while fostering pathways for transforming ecological advantages into economic benefits; as a researcher, he has contributed to influential studies published in Chinese and international journals, emphasizing the intersection of policy, technology, and sustainable agricultural systems; his works reflect a deep commitment to promoting ecological civilization and advancing China’s rural development strategies through innovative policy recommendations and applied economic models, demonstrating his role as a forward-looking scholar shaping the future of agricultural sustainability; currently, he continues to contribute through publications, active research projects, and meaningful academic collaborations.

Profile:

Scopus

Orcid

Education:

Dr. Hao Yu pursued a multidisciplinary academic path beginning with a Bachelor’s degree in International Economics and Trade from the School of Business, Luoyang Normal University, where he built a solid foundation in economic principles and international trade mechanisms; he then expanded his knowledge by obtaining a Master’s degree in Public Management from the School of Public Administration, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, which provided him with expertise in governance, institutional development, and policy analysis; to further integrate his passion for agriculture and sustainable development, he undertook doctoral studies in Agricultural Economics and Management at the School of Economics and Management, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, completing his research his educational trajectory demonstrates a seamless integration of economics, public management, and agricultural systems, equipping him with the analytical and policy-oriented skills necessary to address contemporary challenges such as food security, ecological sustainability, and rural revitalization in China’s evolving economic landscape.

Experience:

Dr. Hao Yu’s professional experience is rooted in academia and research, where he has actively engaged in investigating agricultural economics, ecological product supply, and rural revitalization strategies in China; his scholarly contributions include co-authored articles in the Chinese Journal of Applied Ecology, Forestry Economics, and the Journal of Ningde Normal University, addressing critical issues such as supply-side reform, eco-product transformation, and the role of scientific and technological innovation in supporting rural development; he has also participated in significant ongoing research projects, applying advanced modeling methods and empirical analyses to explore the efficiency of green and low-carbon land utilization under the framework of food and ecological security; through his research, Hao Yu has developed expertise in integrating ecological considerations into economic policy and practice, offering practical recommendations for sustainable agricultural systems; his experiences highlight a consistent commitment to bridging theory and practice in pursuit of sustainable rural and agricultural development.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Hao Yu’s academic journey and scholarly dedication have positioned him as a promising researcher in the field of agricultural economics and ecological development, earning recognition for his impactful contributions to research on eco-product supply, rural revitalization, and green low-carbon agriculture; while his formal record of awards and honors is still developing, his nomination for the Best Researcher Award reflects the growing acknowledgment of his expertise, scholarly output, and commitment to advancing sustainable agricultural practices in China; his published works in high-impact journals such as Sustainability and leading Chinese journals have been cited as valuable references in the discourse on ecological-economic integration, demonstrating the practical and theoretical significance of his contributions; his participation in funded research projects and his role in shaping innovative methodologies further underline his recognition within the academic community; his career trajectory indicates that he is poised for future awards, honors, and leadership roles in sustainability-focused agricultural research.

Research Focus:

Dr. Hao Yu’s research centers on the integration of agricultural economics, ecological sustainability, and rural development, with a strong emphasis on green and low-carbon transitions in agriculture; his work investigates the effective supply of ecological products, the efficiency of cultivated land utilization, and the policy pathways to transform ecological advantages into tangible economic benefits; by exploring the interconnection between food security and ecological security, he provides critical insights into sustainable resource use and rural revitalization strategies; his recent publications in both Chinese and international journals reflect his commitment to advancing ecological civilization and addressing the challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation; he applies empirical modeling, dynamic analysis, and spatial convergence methods to assess ecological-economic efficiency, particularly within China’s rural and agricultural systems; his broader vision is to support policy frameworks and technological innovations that foster sustainable agricultural growth while ensuring environmental protection and long-term rural prosperity.

Publication:

Title: Effective supply of eco-product and its influence factors at provincial scale of China from the perspective of supply-side reform
Year: 2018
Citation: 2

Conclusion:

Dr. Hao Yu embodies the qualities of a promising and impactful researcher whose work advances the intersection of agricultural economics, ecological sustainability, and rural development. His rigorous academic training and focused research contributions demonstrate a clear commitment to addressing pressing challenges in food security, low-carbon land use, and ecological-economic integration. By continuing to expand his scholarly reach through international collaborations, professional networks, and applied industry engagement, he is well-positioned to make even greater contributions to sustainable agricultural systems and policy innovation. His achievements, combined with his potential for future impact, make him a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, reflecting both scholarly excellence and the capacity to shape sustainable futures in agriculture and ecology.

 

Sholpan Abzhanova | Food Science | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Food Scientist

Dr. Sholpan Abzhanova | Food Science | Best Researcher Award

Almaty Technological University | Kazakhstan

Dr. Sholpan Abzhanova, Candidate of Technical Sciences and Head of the Department of Food Biotechnology at Almaty Technological University, is a leading researcher in meat and dairy product technology with scientific works, including textbooks, monographs, and  patents. A graduate of the Semipalatinsk Technological Institute of Meat and Dairy Industry, she has pioneered innovative processing methods that have earned multiple gold medals at prestigious international exhibitions. Her research leadership extends across national and international projects, fostering collaborations that advance food safety, quality, and biotechnology. As a reviewer and editorial board member, she contributes to scholarly discourse while mentoring the next generation of scientists. With a Hirsch index  and strong industry linkages, she bridges academic research with practical applications, significantly impacting Kazakhstan’s food processing sector and beyond. Her dedication, innovation, and leadership make her a distinguished figure in food science and biotechnology at both national and global levels.

Profile:

Scopus

Orcid

Education:

Dr. Sholpan Abzhanova earned her engineering degree in technology of meat and dairy products from the Semipalatinsk Technological Institute of Meat and Dairy Industry, where she trained extensively in food production, processing, and quality control. Her academic journey was marked by a deep focus on the intersection of technological innovation and industrial application, equipping her with the expertise to address complex food industry challenges. She later earned the title of Candidate of Technical Sciences in the specialty “Technology of meat, dairy, fish products and refrigeration production,” a recognition of her advanced research capabilities and contributions to the field. Her educational foundation is rooted in rigorous scientific methodology and practical industry knowledge, which has underpinned her successful career as a researcher, innovator, and educator. This strong academic background has provided the basis for her extensive contributions to food biotechnology, enabling her to integrate traditional processing knowledge with modern technological advancements in her work.

Experience:

With decades of academic and research experience, Dr. Sholpan Abzhanova has held leadership roles in Kazakhstan’s food technology sector, currently serving as Head of the Department of Food Biotechnology at Almaty Technological University. She has successfully managed and participated in five major state-funded and contractual research projects under the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Education and Science, and international programs, including collaborative initiatives with the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences. Her expertise spans industrial technology development, consultancy, and educational leadership, contributing to both scholarly research and applied industry solutions. She has authored numerous scientific works, including textbooks and methodological developments, influencing food production practices across Kazakhstan. Her role as a reviewer and editorial board member ensures she remains at the forefront of scholarly discourse, while her mentorship nurtures the next generation of food science professionals. Her professional journey reflects a balance of academic rigor, innovative research, and practical implementation in the food biotechnology field.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Sholpan Abzhanova has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing her innovations in food biotechnology. She was named “Best University Teacher ” by the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Kazakhstan, honoring her academic excellence and dedication to teaching. Internationally, she earned gold medals for pioneering technologies such as boiled-smoked meat products from lamb “Batyr” using lactic acid bacteria, the boiled-smoked whole muscle product “Ulytau,” and the innovative “Horse Meat in Shape” technology, awarded at exhibitions in Moscow and Almaty. These honors reflect her ability to translate scientific research into commercially viable, high-quality food products with significant industry impact. Her achievements not only highlight her innovation and leadership in the field but also enhance Kazakhstan’s presence in global food science. These accolades demonstrate her consistent contributions to both academic and industrial advancements, solidifying her reputation as an influential figure in the international food technology community.

Research Focus:

Dr. Sholpan Abzhanova’s research is centered on the technology, quality, and safety of food products, with a primary emphasis on meat and dairy processing innovations. She explores advanced biotechnological approaches, including the use of beneficial microorganisms such as lactic acid bacteria to enhance product quality, extend shelf life, and improve nutritional value. Her work integrates traditional processing methods with modern technological advancements, resulting in novel products that meet both consumer preferences and industry standards. She is actively engaged in improving the efficiency and sustainability of processing industries while ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. Through collaborative projects with national and international institutions, she applies interdisciplinary approaches to address current scientific and industrial challenges. Her research outputs—ranging from patents to publications—demonstrate a clear focus on creating solutions that are practical, scalable, and impactful, bridging the gap between laboratory research and commercial food production in Kazakhstan and beyond.

Publication:

Title: Influence of selenium additives on butter quality and storage stability
Year: 2025

Title: The influence of lingonberry and sea buckthorn powder-aqua solutions on the nutritional value of sander roe
Year: 2024

Title: Improving the quality and safety of caviar products based on an internal traceability system
Year: 2024

Title: Modeling and optimization of production process of extruded protein textures in meat products technology
Year: 2024

Title: Obtaining a food coating with bioprotective properties
Year: 2023

Title: Influence of collagen films on the microbial obsemination of semi-finished meat products
Year: 2023

Title: Prevalence of Clostridium perfringens and Detection of Its Toxins in Meat Products in Selected Areas of West Kazakhstan
Year: 2022

Title: Devising barrier technologies to ensure the stability of microbiological and organoleptic quality indicators of meat semi-finished products
Year: 2021

Title: Influence of ion-ozone cavitation processing on the amino acid structure of wheat grain
Year: 2016

Title: Kazakhstan wheat as raw material for deep processing
Year: 2015

Conclusion:

With a proven track record of innovation, impactful research, and significant contributions to both academia and industry, Dr. Sholpan Abzhanova stands out as an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her dedication to advancing food biotechnology and her ability to translate scientific discoveries into practical solutions make her a valuable leader in her field. Continued support for her work will undoubtedly lead to further advancements that benefit both the scientific community and the food industry on a global scale.

Guangli Liu | Biodegradable Microrobot | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Food Scientist

Dr. Guangli Liu | Biodegradable Microrobot | Best Researcher Award

Anhui Medical University | China

Liu Guangli, Ph.D., is a dedicated researcher and educator specializing in Instrument Science and Technology, with expertise in biomedical engineering applications. A native of Weifang City, Shandong Province, and a member of the Communist Party of China, she earned her doctorate from the University of Science and Technology of China under the supervision of Professor Chu Jia Ru. she has served as a Lecturer and Associate Professor (by courtesy) at the School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, where she also supervises master’s students. Her research integrates optical phantoms, micro/nano carriers, 3D printing of biocompatible materials, and smart responsive devices, aiming to advance diagnostic and therapeutic technologies. Liu has made notable contributions through high-impact publications, patents, and funded projects, while also excelling as an educator through innovative teaching practices. Her professional commitment reflects a blend of scientific innovation, technical skill, and dedication to nurturing the next generation of biomedical engineers.

Profile:

Scopus

Education: 

Liu Guangli holds a strong academic foundation in engineering and biomedical instrumentation. She completed her Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Design, Manufacturing, and Automation at Luoyang Normal University . She then pursued a direct-entry Doctor of Engineering degree in Instrument Science and Technology at the University of Science and Technology of China , conducting her doctoral research under the guidance of Professor Chu Jia Ru. Her doctoral studies focused on advanced biomedical instrumentation and optical phantom technology, combining mechanical design principles with medical applications. This interdisciplinary training provided her with expertise in micro/nano device fabrication, 3D printing for biomedical purposes, and the development of responsive materials for diagnostic and therapeutic applications. This solid educational background has been pivotal in shaping her research direction, enabling her to bridge engineering innovation with healthcare needs while fostering technological advancements in biomedical engineering education and research.

Experience:

Liu Guangli has been a Lecturer and Associate Professor (by courtesy) at the School of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, where she also serves as a master’s supervisor. She has taught a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, including Digital Medicine, Medical Imaging Technology and Equipment, Mobile Healthcare, Professional English, Biomedical Sensing and Detection Technology, Embedded Systems, and Professional Introduction. Liu has also supervised research projects in optical phantoms, 3D printing of biocompatible materials, and smart responsive devices, leading to publications in prestigious journals such as Sensors and Actuators A and 3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing. Her academic contributions extend to patent development, conference presentations, and leadership in funded research projects from provincial and institutional sources. Her dual role as an educator and researcher demonstrates her ability to integrate cutting-edge research with innovative teaching, fostering a strong learning and research culture among her students.

Awards and Honors:

Liu Guangli has received notable recognition for her academic and teaching excellence. she was awarded the Second Prize in the “Classroom Ideology and Politics” Teaching Competition of the School of Biomedical Engineering, highlighting her ability to integrate ideological and political education into her teaching. she was honored as an “Outstanding Class Teacher” of Anhui Medical University , reflecting her dedication to student mentorship and holistic education. Her academic career is further marked by successfully securing competitive research funding from the Anhui Provincial Natural Science Foundation, Anhui Medical University Doctoral Research Fund, and the Anhui Provincial Universities Natural Science Research Project. These awards and honors illustrate her professional competence, teaching innovation, and research leadership, affirming her role as a respected educator, mentor, and scientist in the field of biomedical engineering and medical device research.

Research Focus:

Liu Guangli’s research lies at the intersection of biomedical engineering, material science, and instrumentation, with a particular focus on developing innovative medical diagnostic and therapeutic tools. She works extensively on optical phantoms, enabling the simulation of human tissue optical properties for imaging system calibration and biomedical studies. Her expertise in micro/nano carriers supports targeted drug delivery and responsive biomedical devices. She also advances the field of 3D printing by creating biocompatible materials and structures that mimic biological tissues for medical imaging, surgical planning, and regenerative medicine applications. Additionally, her work on smart responsive devices integrates stimuli-sensitive materials with engineering design to create adaptable biomedical systems. Liu’s research output includes publications in high-impact journals, international conference presentations, and patents that contribute to medical technology development. By bridging engineering innovation with clinical needs, her work addresses critical challenges in precision medicine, medical imaging, and biomedical device functionality.

Publication:

Title: High-sensitivity wearable sensor based on micro-needle structure design assisted by 3D printing
Year: 2025

Title: A biodegradable magnetic microrobot based on alginate/GelMA microcapsules for delivery of chondroitin sulfate for cartilage tissue repair
Year: 2025

Title: Manipulation Study of Bubble-Propelled Hydrogel Microbots
Year: 2025

Conclusion:

Dr. Liu Guangli stands out as a highly accomplished researcher whose expertise in biomedical engineering, instrumentation, and material science has led to innovative solutions with practical clinical relevance. Her achievements in research publications, patents, and competitive funding demonstrate her capability to contribute meaningfully to her field. She combines rigorous academic work with impactful teaching, nurturing both scientific advancement and human capital development. While opportunities remain to further expand her international profile and industry collaborations, her current trajectory reflects exceptional promise and sustained commitment to innovation. Her interdisciplinary approach and ability to translate complex engineering concepts into healthcare applications position her as a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with potential for even greater contributions to science and society in the years ahead.

Jesus Simal-Gandara | Food Research | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Food Scientist

Prof. Dr. Jesus Simal-Gandara | Food Research | Best Researcher Award

University of Vigo | Spain

Prof. Dr. Jesús Simal-Gandara is a distinguished food scientist and analytical chemist, currently a Full Professor at the University of Vigo, Spain. With over three decades of expertise, he has built an exceptional career marked by international research, academic leadership, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. He has served as Head of Department, Vice-Chancellor for Internationalization, and Director of CIA3, a multidisciplinary research center. His global experience includes research stints in France, USA, Germany, UK, Sweden, and more. A leading figure in food safety, nutrition, environmental contaminants, and analytical chemistry, he has supervised numerous PhDs and led prominent national and international research projects. His influence extends beyond academia through advisory roles in Spanish food safety agencies and active involvement in European research networks. A prolific author and evaluator, Prof. Simal-Gandara continues to make major contributions to global food quality, authenticity, and safety initiatives.

Profile:

Orcid

Google Scholar

Education:

Prof. Jesús Simal-Gandara completed his undergraduate degree in Pharmacy with Spanish Award of Completion and later earned his PhD with a Prize at the University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain. His foundational education laid the groundwork for a distinguished academic and scientific career. He complemented his education through advanced training and research engagements at several world-renowned institutions including Université de Paris-Sud (France), University of Delaware (USA), Fraunhofer Institute (Germany), and more. These international academic exposures equipped him with a multidisciplinary understanding of analytical chemistry, food safety, and public health. His continuous engagement with educational excellence is also seen in his role as a doctoral advisor, nurturing the next generation of scientists. Throughout his career, Prof. Simal-Gandara has also actively contributed to curriculum design, interdisciplinary research education, and academic leadership within Spanish and European higher education institutions.

Experience:

Prof. Jesús Simal-Gandara has extensive academic and research experience spanning over three decades. He began his academic journey at the University of Vigo, where he advanced from Associate Professor to Full Professor. He has held key leadership roles including Director of a multidisciplinary research center focused on environmental, agricultural, and food sciences, Head of the Department of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, and Vice-Chancellor for Internationalization. His international experience includes research tenures at renowned institutions in France, the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Mexico. He has collaborated with both industry and public sector entities on projects involving food safety, packaging, and environmental impact. He has participated in over forty national and international research projects and supervised numerous doctoral theses across diverse fields such as food chemistry, environmental toxicology, and metabolomics. His global scientific reputation is further supported by his role as a reviewer and evaluator for research programs across continents.

Awards and Honors:

Prof. Jesús Simal-Gandara has been recognized with several prestigious distinctions throughout his career. He was awarded the top national honor for academic excellence in Pharmacy and received a PhD Prize from the University of Santiago de Compostela. His scientific contributions earned him the Research Medal from the Royal Academy of Science of Galicia and the Picadillo Award for his impact on rural food innovation. He is a Full Member of the Royal Academy of Pharmacy of Galicia and serves as President of the International Association of Dietary Nutrition and Safety. His expertise in food safety led to his appointment on scientific committees for national food and nutrition agencies, where he contributed to key public health reports. Internationally, he has served as a research evaluator for organizations in Europe, Latin America, Asia, and Oceania, reflecting global recognition of his leadership in science and policy. His honors underscore a distinguished career dedicated to excellence in food science.

Research Focus:

Prof. Simal-Gandara’s research focuses on food quality, safety, traceability, and environmental contamination. His group excels in chromatographic separations (GC-MS, LC-MS), molecular biology, and proteomics. A major emphasis is on studying persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in food chains, with applications in public health, toxicity evaluation, and epidemiology. He explores functional and sensory quality improvements in food, especially through the analysis of secondary metabolites in plants. His research spans from chemical residue analysis in food packaging to the valorization of agri-food by-products for nutraceutical applications. He has led national and international projects addressing climate change, sustainable food systems, olive oil typicity, authenticity via hyperspectral imaging, and bioactive extractions from macroalgae. His interdisciplinary research integrates food science, agriculture, environment, nutrition, and public health, driving innovation in analytical methodologies and food risk assessment. His work consistently bridges science, technology, and policy to advance sustainable and safe global food systems.

Publications:

Title: The mobility and degradation of pesticides in soils and the pollution of groundwater resources
Year: 2008
Citations: 1823

Title: Impact of heavy metals on the environment and human health: Novel therapeutic insights to counter the toxicity
Year: 2022
Citations: 1711

Title: A review on the use of cyclodextrins in foods
Year: 2009
Citations: 1157

Title: Future challenges on the use of blockchain for food traceability analysis
Year: 2018
Citations: 1044

Title: Terpenes and terpenoids as main bioactive compounds of essential oils, their roles in human health and potential application as natural food preservatives
Year: 2022
Citations: 832

Title: Bioactive compounds and quality of extra virgin olive oil
Year: 2020
Citations: 473

Title: Wine aroma compounds in grapes: A critical review
Year: 2015
Citations: 454

Title: Mitigation of emerging implications of climate change on food production systems
Year: 2020
Citations: 418

Title: Cyclodextrins inclusion complex: Preparation methods, analytical techniques and food industry applications
Year: 2022
Citations: 359

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Jesús Simal-Gándara’s extensive contributions to food quality, safety, and public health, coupled with his leadership in large-scale multidisciplinary projects, make him an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His ability to merge rigorous analytical chemistry with applied solutions in agriculture, nutrition, and environmental health reflects both scientific excellence and societal relevance. Recognizing his achievements would not only honor his personal dedication but also underscore the importance of globally integrated research in ensuring safe, authentic, and sustainable food systems.