Dr. shikha kumari – Environmental Microbiology – Women Researcher Award

Dr. shikha kumari - Environmental Microbiology - Women Researcher Award

Career Point University - India

AUTHOR PROFILE

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

🌱 SUMMARY

Dr. shikha kumari is a dynamic academician and researcher in the domain of plant molecular biotechnology, known for her multidisciplinary expertise that spans bioinformatics, pharmaceutical sciences, microbiology, and molecular docking. with a strong foundation in bioinformatics and biotechnology, the academic career has been driven by a commitment to sustainable solutions for biological problems. the scholarly contributions encompass plant metabolite research, in silico drug discovery, antioxidant and antimicrobial evaluations, and environmental biotechnology. a blend of computational tools and wet-lab methods highlights a unique research style, aiming to bridge traditional knowledge with modern scientific inquiry for human and environmental health.

🧬 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

The academic journey began with a bachelor's and master's in bioinformatics from punjab university, marked by high distinction. the pursuit of excellence continued with a ph.d. in biotechnology from shoolini university, where the focus was on herbal lead characterization and bioactive compound isolation. the early years were characterized by a fascination with natural therapeutics, especially through high-performance analytical techniques like hplc and hptlc. this period laid the groundwork for interdisciplinary exploration, combining biology, chemistry, and computation. foundational studies helped build strong experimental and analytical skills, forming the basis for future scientific accomplishments and teaching excellence.

🔬 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Currently serving as an assistant professor at career point university in hamirpur, dr. shikha kumari has also previously held academic positions at shoolini institute of life sciences. in addition to teaching core courses in microbiology, pharmaceutical analysis, and biotechnology, involvement spans organizing national conferences, workshops, and delivering expert lectures. significant mentorship has been extended through successful guidance of multiple phd scholars. with a strong teaching-research interface, the academic role integrates curriculum development, laboratory management, and administrative responsibilities, thereby enriching both student learning and institutional development across various life science disciplines.

🌿 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

The research areas revolve around phytochemistry, antimicrobial resistance, environmental detoxification, and cancer therapeutics using medicinal plants. natural molecules derived from plants like terminalia, acorus calamus, rhododendron, and selaginella are central to the research. a distinctive strength lies in combining in vitro assays with in silico modeling for drug development. contributions to microbial degradation of pollutants and plastic waste valorization reflect a commitment to environmental sustainability. innovative work has also addressed nutritional immunology, especially during the covid-19 pandemic, blending molecular biology with public health. the work continues to expand toward plant-based drug discovery and eco-friendly bioactive formulations.

🏅 ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITION

Recognition comes in the form of multiple published patents in india, including innovations in drug delivery systems and antimicrobial synergy testing devices. over sixteen quality publications in reputed journals like plos one and south african journal of botany underscore the research impact. contributions to books and laboratory manuals reflect commitment to both academic and applied knowledge dissemination. active participation in international conferences, webinars, and workshops further highlights engagement with the global scientific community. awards and organizing roles in faculty development programs showcase leadership and dedication in advancing research capacity and education across institutions.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. shikha kumari’s work influences interdisciplinary fields, bridging molecular biology, computational chemistry, environmental science, and pharmacology. mentoring research scholars has nurtured future scientists with strong ethical and methodological training. innovations in herbal pharmacology offer sustainable solutions for modern health challenges. community impact is visible through educational outreach on nutrition, climate change, and public health. invited lectures and leadership roles in national events reinforce influence in shaping academic discourse. efforts in empowering local students and rural research initiatives reflect a grounded commitment to inclusive science. the integrated approach aims to improve both scientific progress and societal well-being.

📚 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

The legacy being shaped is that of a scientist-educator whose research aims to redefine natural therapeutics and environmental remediation. future work is expected to delve deeper into molecular docking of plant metabolites, green chemistry applications, and translational bioinformatics. expansion of patentable innovations, publication in high-impact journals, and cross-border collaborations will further elevate the research profile. the long-term vision includes establishing a center for plant-based drug discovery and nurturing a new generation of ethically grounded biotechnologists. through interdisciplinary knowledge, technical mentorship, and public engagement, a lasting contribution is being made to science, education, and sustainable development.

PUBLICATIONS

Title: Phytoconstituents of traditional Himalayan Herbs as potential inhibitors of Human Papillomavirus (HPV-18) for cervical cancer treatment: An In silico Approach
Authors: D. Salaria, R. Rolta, J. Mehta, O. Awofisayo, O.A. Fadare, B. Kaur, B. Kumar, ...
Journal: PLoS One, 17(3), e0265420, 2022


Title: Sequential fractionation by organic solvents enhances the antioxidant and antibacterial activity of ethanolic extracts of fruits and leaves of Terminalia bellerica from North India
Authors: S.R. Chandel, V. Kumar, S. Guleria, N. Sharma, A. Sourirajan, P.K. Khosla, ...
Journal: Pharmacognosy Journal, 11(1), 2019


Title: In vitro and in silico properties of Rhododendron arboreum against pathogenic bacterial isolates
Authors: J. Mehta, R. Rolta, D. Salaria, A. Ahmed, S.R. Chandel, H. Regassa, ...
Journal: South African Journal of Botany, 161, 711–719, 2023


Title: Comparative analysis of phytochemicals, antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of different species of Terminalia from Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: V. Kumar, S.R. Chandel, S. Guleria, N. Sharma, A. Sourirajan, P.K. Khosla, ...
Journal: Vegetos, 34(3), 528–539, 2021


Title: Comparative antioxidant potential of leaves and Fruit Extracts of Terminalia bellerica Roxb from Himachal Pradesh
Authors: S.R. Chandel, K. Dev, P.K. Khosla
Journal: International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research, 38(1), 2016


Title: Antimicrobial potential of phytocompounds of Acorus calamus: in silico approach
Authors: K. Shalini, S. Guleria, D. Salaria, R. Rolta, O.A. Fadare, J. Mehta, O. Awofisayo, ...
Journal: Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, 42(5), 2726–2737, 2024

Nyambane Clive Ontita – Bioelectrochemical systems – Excellence in Innovation

Nyambane Clive Ontita - Bioelectrochemical systems - Excellence in Innovation

Central south university - Kenya

AUTHOR PROFILE

GOOGLE SCHOLAR

ORCID

🔬 PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY 

NYAMBANE CLIVE ONTITA is an environmental microbiologist specializing in microbe–mineral interactions, bioelectrochemical systems, and biological resource recovery. His work addresses industrial wastewater treatment, degradation of emerging contaminants, and sustainable metal recovery. Known for interdisciplinary collaboration, he applies microbial technologies to create practical solutions in waste reuse, rare earth extraction, and eco-materials. His expertise spans microbial community analysis, surface chemistry, and reactor design. Clive is driven by a commitment to address real-world environmental problems using innovative microbiological techniques, aiming to contribute meaningfully to global sustainability goals.

🎓 EDUCATION

Clive completed a PhD in Environmental Microbiology from Central South University, China (2025), where he focused on microbial electrochemical systems for metal recovery. He earned an MSc in Microbiology from Kenyatta University, Kenya (2015), gaining foundational research experience in microbial contamination and ecology. His undergraduate degree in Biology and Agriculture was obtained from Bugema University, Uganda (2010), which provided his entry into biological sciences. This academic journey built a solid platform for his transition into applied microbiology and environmental biotechnology, enhancing both his theoretical knowledge and laboratory competencies in real-world microbial applications.

🧑‍🏫 PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Clive has a rich background in teaching and research. As a Doctoral Researcher at Central South University, he has engineered bioelectrochemical systems for rare earth recovery. Previously, he was a Part-time Lecturer at Kisii University and JKUAT, teaching medical and general microbiology while guiding student research. His early career involved clinical microbiology studies at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital. Across these roles, he has demonstrated excellence in mentoring, experimental microbiology, and the development of bio-remediation techniques, contributing both to academic instruction and the advancement of microbial solutions to environmental challenges.

🧪 RESEARCH INTEREST

Clive’s research focuses on microbial electrochemical technologies for wastewater treatment and rare earth element recovery. His interests include biostabilization of mine waste, microbe–mineral surface interactions, biofilm dynamics, and the use of bioelectrochemical systems in contaminant removal. He investigates how microorganisms can transform, bind, or recover metals in harsh industrial environments, leveraging stress-response mechanisms and biogeochemical cycles. Through integrative techniques—such as molecular sequencing and surface chemistry—Clive explores sustainable environmental biotechnologies, advancing knowledge in both microbial ecology and applied engineering for clean energy, resource recycling, and green industrial practices.

🏅 AWARDS AND HONORS

Clive has been recognized for his research excellence multiple times. He received the Best Research Student Award at Central South University in 2024 and was honored as the Best Research Group Presenter in 2022. These accolades highlight his innovation in environmental microbiology, particularly in microbial strategies for resource recovery. His ability to articulate scientific ideas, lead collaborative research, and publish impactful findings has earned him academic prestige. These achievements reflect his commitment to environmental sustainability through advanced microbiological research, reinforcing his leadership potential in academic and scientific communities.

🧫 RESEARCH SKILLS

Clive possesses technical expertise in microbial and molecular biology, including 16S rRNA sequencing, qPCR, and DNA extraction. He is skilled in environmental analytics (e.g., XPS, SEM, FTIR, XRD), bioelectrochemical system design, and pollutant degradation kinetics. His proficiency extends to data analysis using OriginLab, SPSS, GraphPad Prism, and bioinformatics tools like PICRUSt. Clive also excels in reactor fabrication and microbial recovery strategies. His interdisciplinary approach combines microbiology, materials science, and engineering, allowing him to investigate and resolve complex environmental issues with precision and innovation.

📚 TOP NOTED PUBLICATIONS

Clive has authored several impactful publications in top-tier journals. His 2025 paper in Journal of Hazardous Materials explores biofilm responses to gadolinium in wastewater (IF 12.2). Another study in Journal of Water Process Engineering (2024, 2025) highlights substrate optimization and lanthanum recovery via BES (IF 6.7). His work in Water, Air, and Soil Pollution analyzes Ce(III) effects on biofilms (IF 3.8). Clive also co-authored articles on carbon-fixing microalgae and cold-tolerant bacteria in Bioresource Technology (IF 9.7). These publications showcase his thought leadership in microbial electrochemical applications and environmental sustainability.

Title: High-efficiency nitrogen removal by cold-tolerant bacteria consortium at low temperatures
Authors: Yilin Xu, Nyambane Clive Ontita, Weimin Zeng, Jin Huang, Luhua Jiang, Xiaxin Huang, Qi Li, Peng Hu
Journal: Bioresource Technology

Title: Mechanistic Insights into Biphasic Effects of Ce(III) on Anode Biofilms in Bioelectrochemical Systems during Industrial Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Nyambane Clive Ontita, Charles Amanze, Richmond Anaman, Xiao Shanshan, Felix Kwofie, Pius Abraham Tetteh, Weimin Zeng
Journal: Water, Air, & Soil Pollution

Title: Substrate-mediated enhancement of bioelectrochemical systems for sustainable rare earth element recovery from mining wastewater
Authors: Nyambane Clive Ontita, Richmond Anaman, Charles Amanze, Hyline N. Nyangweso, Weimin Zeng
Journal: Journal of Water Process Engineering

Title: Electrochemically active biofilms responses to gadolinium stress during wastewater treatment in bioelectrochemical systems
Authors: Nyambane Clive Ontita, Richmond Anaman, Emmanuel Konadu Sarkodie, Yanchu Wang, Abdulmalik Hamza Bichi, Xiao Shanshan, Hyline N. Nyangweso, Yilin Xu, Charles Amanze, Nour El Houda Bouroubi et al.
Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials

Title: Isolation and Whole-genome analysis of Desmodesmus sp. SZ-1: Novel acid-tolerant carbon-fixing microalga
Authors: Yanchu Wang, Ajuan Liu, Charles Amanze, Nyambane Clive Ontita, Weimin Zeng
Journal: Bioresource Technology

Title: Insights into anode substrate optimization in bioelectrochemical systems for efficient cathodic lanthanum recovery during wastewater treatment
Authors: Nyambane Clive Ontita, Emmanuel Konadu Sarkodie, Richmond Anaman, Tang Yun Hui, Weimin Zeng
Journal: Journal of Water Process Engineering

🧠 CONCLUSION

Clive stands out as a multidisciplinary researcher committed to sustainable environmental solutions through microbiology. From microbial metal recovery to innovative wastewater treatment systems, his work bridges laboratory science and environmental engineering. His educational background, research outputs, and teaching experience equip him to lead transformative projects in microbial biotechnology. Through awards, peer-reviewed publications, and global collaborations, Clive has positioned himself as a dynamic contributor to global sustainability agendas. His career exemplifies scientific rigor, innovation, and a deep dedication to improving ecological and industrial resilience using microbial strategies.