Asghar TALBALAGHI | Parasitology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Zoology Honour

Dr. Asghar TALBALAGHI | Parasitology | Best Researcher Award

Focal point – for provincial Territory at Italian Mosquito Control Association, Ipla, Italy

Dr. Asghar Talbalaghi is a distinguished entomologist with extensive expertise in mosquito surveillance, vector control, and public health entomology. With advanced academic qualifications from leading Italian universities and over two decades of applied research experience, he has significantly contributed to the understanding and management of disease-transmitting mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti. His collaborations with international institutions, including WHO and AMCD, highlight his global scientific relevance. Dr. Talbalaghi’s research is well-documented in high-impact journals and platforms such as Scopus and Web of Science, and his innovation—RunCatch®, an early warning mosquito trap—demonstrates practical contributions to disease prevention. While his work is highly impactful, further interdisciplinary collaborations and increased mentorship could enhance his broader scientific influence. Overall, Dr. Talbalaghi’s strong research record, global engagement, and commitment to public health innovation make him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

   Scopus Profile

Education

Dr. Asghar Talbalaghi possesses a solid and specialized academic background in agricultural and biological sciences. He earned his Laurea degree in Agricultural Sciences from the University of Bologna  focusing his thesis on agricultural cooperation and disability. He later enhanced his expertise with a postgraduate diploma in Rural Development in Third World Countries from the University of Padova  he completed a School of Specialization in Plant Pathology at the University of Bologna, where his research explored the effects of kairomones of Leptinotarsa decemlineata on Edovum puttleri. This advanced training provided him with a deep understanding of pest control and plant protection. His education reflects a strong foundation in entomology, plant pathology, and sustainable agriculture, which has directly influenced his later research in vector ecology and mosquito-borne disease control. His academic journey demonstrates both depth and diversity in agricultural and environmental health sciences.

 Experience

Dr. Asghar Talbalaghi has built a robust professional career spanning over two decades in entomology and vector control.  he has served as a scientific and technical advisor at IPLA (Institute for Plants and the Environment) in Torino, specializing in mosquito control strategies for the Alessandria province. His expertise has led to multiple international assignments, including serving as a Visiting Researcher at the Anastasia Mosquito Control District in Florida and as a Temporary Advisor to the World Health Organization in Geneva on several occasions. His role has involved entomological surveillance, public health advisory work, and delivering expert training for medical and veterinary professionals on mosquito-borne diseases. Earlier in his career, he worked with the Ente Nazionale Sementi Elette in Milan as a seed controller. Dr. Talbalaghi’s professional experience reflects a deep commitment to applied science, international collaboration, and the practical implementation of public health entomology.

Research Interest

Dr. Asghar Talbalaghi’s research interests are centered on entomology, vector ecology, and the surveillance and control of mosquito-borne diseases. He is particularly focused on the biology, behavior, and management of Aedes aegypti and other invasive mosquito species that pose significant public health threats. His work integrates both morphological and molecular methods for species identification, enhancing accuracy in entomological surveillance. Dr. Talbalaghi is also interested in developing and evaluating innovative mosquito control tools, such as the RunCatch® trap, designed for early warning and risk assessment of vector-borne diseases. His research emphasizes sustainable, cost-effective strategies for controlling mosquito populations in urban and rural settings. Additionally, he explores the use of essential oils and other natural compounds as spatial repellents, reflecting an interest in environmentally friendly vector control solutions. His interdisciplinary approach bridges agriculture, ecology, and public health, aiming to reduce the burden of mosquito-transmitted illnesses through scientific innovation and field-based research.

Award and Honor

Dr. Asghar Talbalaghi has received recognition for his significant contributions to entomology and public health through various professional roles and scientific achievements. Although specific awards and honors are not explicitly listed in his curriculum, his repeated selection as a Temporary Advisor to the World Health Organization (WHO) underscores the international trust placed in his expertise. Serving in advisory roles at WHO headquarters in Geneva and participating in global discussions on vector-borne disease control reflect both honor and professional distinction. Additionally, his appointment as a Visiting Researcher at the Anastasia Mosquito Control District (AMCD) in the United States highlights his international reputation and collaborative standing in scientific research. His innovative contributions, such as the development of the RunCatch® mosquito trap, have added practical value to global mosquito surveillance efforts. These roles and innovations collectively represent a form of professional recognition and serve as strong indicators of his eligibility for future research awards and honors.

Research Skill

Dr. Asghar Talbalaghi possesses a diverse and advanced set of research skills in the fields of entomology, vector ecology, and public health surveillance. He is highly proficient in mosquito identification, using both morphological characteristics and molecular tools to accurately detect invasive species such as Aedes aegypti. His field research skills include designing and conducting entomological surveillance programs, deploying innovative trapping systems, and assessing mosquito behavior and ecology in varied environmental contexts. He also demonstrates strong capabilities in laboratory experimentation, such as evaluating the efficacy of essential oils and commercial traps under controlled and semi-field conditions. Dr. Talbalaghi’s experience in scientific writing and publishing in peer-reviewed journals showcases his ability to analyze, interpret, and communicate complex data effectively. Furthermore, his role as a technical advisor and collaborator with organizations like WHO reflects his skills in translating scientific evidence into practical public health strategies, highlighting his applied research expertise.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Knockdown resistance (kdr) associated organochlorine resistance in mosquito‑borne diseases (Culex pipiens): Systematic study of reviews and meta‑analysis
Authors: Ebrahim Abbasi, Salman Daliri, Asghar Talbalaghi, Fatemeh Mehrpouya, Maryam Hasanzadeh Arab, Atena Aslvaeli
Year: 2023 (preprint published December 2023; indexed in PubMed in 2024)


Citation Summary: A systematic review and meta-analysis examining the global prevalence of kdr-mediated resistance in Culex pipiens against organochlorine insecticides. The analysis encompassed seven studies (total of 2,029 mosquitoes), estimating resistance prevalence to DDT (~76.3 %), Malathion (~42 %), Deltamethrin (~30.6 %), and Permethrin (~17.9 %)

Conclusion

Dr. Asghar Talbalaghi is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his pioneering contributions to the field of vector control, particularly in combating invasive mosquito species with public health implications. His scientific rigor, international collaborations, and commitment to innovative tools like RunCatch® display both depth and originality. With continued expansion into interdisciplinary domains and broader scientific engagement, his profile aligns well with the values of excellence, innovation, and global health impact that the award seeks to recognize.