Latifah ALShammari | Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Latifah ALShammari | Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

Assisstant professor at University of Hafr Al Batin | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Latifah AlShammari is an Assistant Professor specializing in Pharmacognosy and Nutraceuticals, with a strong academic foundation that includes a Ph.D. from Charles University, Czech Republic, and both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from King Saud University, Saudi Arabia. A registered and classified Consultant Pharmacist, Dr. AlShammari has extensive professional experience, including roles as Supervisor of Pharmacy Services, Medication Safety Officer, educator, and community health advocate. With a research focus on natural products and their therapeutic applications, contributions include multiple peer-reviewed publications, collaborations with diverse research groups, and active participation in professional societies. Recognized with awards and certificates, Dr. AlShammari combines academic excellence with impactful healthcare service.

Professional Profile

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Education

Dr. Latifah AlShammari holds a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences from the College of Pharmacy at King Saud University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Building on this foundation, a Master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Pharmacognosy) was also earned from the same institution, focusing on the study of bioactive compounds from natural sources. Further advancing academic expertise, a Doctor of Philosophy in Pharmacognosy and Nutraceuticals was obtained from the Faculty of Pharmacy, Charles University, Czech Republic, emphasizing research into natural products and their applications in healthcare. This strong academic background has provided a solid platform for both research and professional excellence.

Experience

Dr. Latifah AlShammari’s professional experience includes serving as Assistant Professor, contributing to academic development and advancing research in pharmacognosy and nutraceuticals. Experience encompasses working as Consultant Pharmacist in the Patient Counseling Clinic at Khafji General Hospital, providing specialized medication guidance. As Supervisor for Pharmacy Services at KGH, responsibilities involved ensuring quality pharmaceutical care and operational efficiency. Role as Medication Safety Officer focused on enhancing patient safety through effective medication management. Work as educator and trainer for new medical staff in the Continuous Medical Education Department demonstrated commitment to professional growth. Additionally, contributions as media representative for the Pharmaceutical Care Department and active participation in organizing World Health Day events reflect dedication to community health education and outreach.

Research Interests

Dr. Latifah AlShammari’s research interests focus on pharmacognosy and nutraceuticals, with a particular emphasis on the isolation, identification, and characterization of bioactive compounds from medicinal plants. Research explores the therapeutic potential of natural products, including their antimicrobial, antioxidant, and pharmacological properties, aiming to develop novel health-promoting agents. Special attention is given to the chemical composition, biological activities, and safety evaluation of plant-derived substances. Work also involves investigating nutraceutical applications for disease prevention and health enhancement, integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches to support the development of innovative, evidence-based natural therapies.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Latifah AlShammari has received several recognitions for academic, research, and community contributions. Awards include a research award from the Second Riyadh Health Cluster, acknowledging excellence in scientific investigation. Multiple certificates of appreciation have been conferred by King Saud University and the Ministry of Health for outstanding professional service, educational contributions, and commitment to public health awareness. Recognition has also been granted for active participation in community health initiatives, particularly through organizing and leading World Health Day activities to promote wellness and medical education. These honors reflect dedication to advancing pharmaceutical sciences and enhancing community health outcomes.

Publications

Chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of the essential oil and lipid content of Carduus pycnocephalus L. growing in Saudi Arabia

Cited: 33

Alkaloid profiling of Hippeastrum cultivars by GC-MS, isolation of Amaryllidaceae alkaloids and evaluation of their cytotoxicity

Cited: 26

Phytochemical and biological studies of Carduus pycnocephalus L.

Cited: 26

Amaryllidaceae alkaloids from Hippeastrum X Hybridum CV. Ferrari, and preparation of vittatine derivatives as potential ligands for Alzheimer´ s disease

Cited: 25

Structure elucidation and cholinesterase inhibition activity of two new minor amaryllidaceae alkaloids

Cited: 23

Conclusion

Dr. Latifah AlShammari’s academic excellence, clinical experience, research achievements, and active community engagement present a compelling case for recognition through the Best Researcher Award. With a strategic focus on expanding global collaborations and increasing research output, the contributions have strong potential to make a significant impact in pharmacognosy, nutraceuticals, and public health.

Prof. Dr. Mohammad Hossein Mirjalili | Medicinal plants | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Mohammad Hossein Mirjalili | Medicinal plants | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Mohammad Hossein Mirjalili , Shahid beheshti University, Iran

Dr. Mohammad Hossein Mirjalili 🌿 is a professor at Shahid Beheshti University, Iran, specializing in medicinal plants. Born on August 23, 1974, in Yazd, Iran 🇮🇷, he has contributed significantly to plant biotechnology, secondary metabolite production, and phytochemistry. With a Ph.D. from the University of Tehran and international research experience in Spain 🇪🇸, he is recognized for his impactful teaching and research in plant cell culture, genetics, and metabolic engineering 🧬. As head and deputy director at the Medicinal Plants and Drugs Research Institute, Dr. Mirjalili continues to advance innovations in medicinal plant science. 📚👨‍🔬🌱

Professional Profile:

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Suitability for Best Researcher Award:

Dr. Mohammad Hossein Mirjalili is exceptionally well-suited for the Best Researcher Award, given his pioneering work in medicinal plant biotechnology, metabolic engineering, and plant-derived pharmaceuticals. With decades of sustained academic excellence, research leadership, and international collaboration, his contributions directly impact healthcare, sustainable agriculture, and pharmaceutical sciences.

📘 Education & Experience

🎓 Education

  • B.Sc. in Horticultural Science, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran (1994–1998) 🎓

  • M.Sc. in Horticultural Science (Medicinal Plants), University of Tehran (1999–2000) 🌿
    Thesis: Adaptation and essential oil composition of lemongrass landraces

  • Ph.D. in Physiology and Breeding of Medicinal Plants, University of Tehran (2004–2009) 🧪
    Thesis: Withania species and hairy root culture for withanolide production

  • Ph.D. training in University of Barcelona, Spain 🇪🇸 (2006–2007)

💼 Experience

  • Master Research Fellow, University of Tehran (1999–2000) 🧑‍🔬

  • Researcher, Shahid Beheshti University (2001–2004) 🔬

  • Ph.D. Research Fellow, University of Tehran (2004–2008) 📖

  • Professor, Shahid Beheshti University (Since 2022) 👨‍🏫

  • Head, Agriculture Department (2009–2011) 🏛️

  • Deputy of Education (Since 2016) 📚

🚀 Professional Development

Dr. Mirjalili has demonstrated consistent growth as a scholar and educator in the field of medicinal plant sciences 🌱. His professional trajectory includes academic leadership, extensive teaching at graduate levels, and advanced research in plant biotechnology and metabolic engineering 🧬. He has taught multiple MSc and PhD-level courses including Plant Biotechnology, Plant Stress Physiology, and Tissue Culture since 2009 👨‍🏫. A key contributor to curriculum development and student mentoring, he has also undertaken international scientific training in Spain 🇪🇸. His professional development continues through active research, collaboration, and publication in high-impact scientific journals 📈📄.

🧪 Research Focus 

Dr. Mirjalili’s research is centered on the biotechnology of medicinal and aromatic plants 🌿. He investigates genetic and phytochemical diversity, optimization of in vitro culture systems (like hairy roots and cell suspensions), and metabolic engineering for enhanced production of secondary metabolites 🧬💊. His work also explores the transformation of plant systems via Agrobacterium and the study of endophytes for their bioactive compound potential 🧫. The overarching goal is sustainable production of bioactive compounds for pharmaceutical and therapeutic use, making his contributions crucial to plant-based drug development 🌱🔬💡.

🏆 Awards and Honors 

  • 🏆 Selected Researcher of Iran – Ministry of Science, Research & Technology (2023)

  • 👨‍🏫 Distinguished Teacher of the Year – Shahid Beheshti University (2015)

  • 🧪 Distinguished Researcher of the Year – Shahid Beheshti University (2013)

  • 🎓 Ph.D. Scholarship Recipient – Ministry of Science, Research & Technology, Iran (2005)

Publication Top Notes:

1. Steroidal Lactones from Withania somnifera, an Ancient Plant for Novel Medicine

  • Authors: M.H. Mirjalili, E. Moyano, M. Bonfill, R.M. Cusido, J. Palazón

  • Journal: Molecules, Vol. 14(7), pp. 2373–2393

  • Year: 2009

  • Cited by: 820

  • Summary: A comprehensive review of steroidal lactones (withanolides) derived from Withania somnifera, focusing on their medicinal potential, biosynthesis, and future prospects in pharmaceutical development.

2. Production of the Anticancer Drug Taxol in Taxus baccata Suspension Cultures: A Review

  • Authors: S. Malik, R.M. Cusidó, M.H. Mirjalili, E. Moyano, J. Palazón, M. Bonfill

  • Journal: Process Biochemistry, Vol. 46(1), pp. 23–34

  • Year: 2011

  • Cited by: 491

  • Summary: Reviews advancements in biotechnological methods for producing the anticancer drug taxol from Taxus baccata suspension cultures, including genetic and metabolic engineering strategies.

3. Essential Oil Composition and Antibacterial Activity of Thymus caramanicus at Different Phenological Stages

  • Authors: S.N. Ebrahimi, J. Hadian, M.H. Mirjalili, A. Sonboli, M. Yousefzadi

  • Journal: Food Chemistry, Vol. 110(4), pp. 927–931

  • Year: 2008

  • Cited by: 398

  • Summary: Investigates how essential oil composition and antibacterial properties of Thymus caramanicus vary across growth stages, with implications for its use in food and pharmaceutical industries.

4. Biotechnological Production of Taxol and Related Taxoids: Current State and Prospects

  • Authors: O. Expósito, M. Bonfill, E. Moyano, M. Onrubia, M.H. Mirjalili, R.M. Cusidó, et al.

  • Journal: Anti-Cancer Agents in Medicinal Chemistry

  • Year: 2009Cited by: 186

  • Summary: Explores biotechnological innovations for producing taxol and similar taxoids, detailing production platforms such as cell cultures, genetic engineering, and elicitation techniques.

5. Phytochemical and Morphological Characterization of Satureja khuzistanica Jamzad Populations from Iran

  • Authors: J. Hadian, M. Hossein Mirjalili, M. Reza Kanani, A. Salehnia, P. Ganjipoor

  • Journal: Chemistry & Biodiversity, Vol. 8(5), pp. 902–915

  • Year: 2011

  • Cited by: 163

  • Summary: Provides a detailed chemical and morphological analysis of different Iranian populations of Satureja khuzistanica, a medicinal plant known for high thymol content and therapeutic properties.

Conclusion:

Dr. Mohammad Hossein Mirjalili exemplifies what the Best Researcher Award aims to honor: innovation, impact, and leadership in a critical scientific domain. His decades-long research into the biotechnology of medicinal plants not only advances academic knowledge but also serves global health and sustainability goals. His scientific depth, educational commitment, and national recognition make him a model candidate for this award.