Rafita Haque | Diseases | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Zoology Honour

Ms. Rafita Haque | Diseases | Best Researcher Award

PHD Student at Florida International University, United States

Rafita Haque is a dynamic researcher and Ph.D. candidate in Computer and Electrical Engineering at Florida International University (FIU), USA. With a solid background in software and computer science engineering, her academic and professional pursuits are centered around Artificial Intelligence (AI), biomedical sensors, cardiovascular health management, and blockchain-based healthcare communication systems. Rafita has served as a lecturer at renowned institutions in Bangladesh, including Daffodil International University and the Asian University of Bangladesh. She has also gained valuable industry experience as a Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Engineer. Her research contributions span interdisciplinary domains with a strong focus on technological innovation for health and information security. Rafita has authored several impactful publications indexed in Scopus, Springer, and Web of Science. Her work has earned her multiple honors, including the Best Paper Award in Malaysia and Best Project Award in Bangladesh. She continues to push boundaries in AI-driven health technologies and secure data systems

Professional Profile 

 Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile | Goolge Scholar

Education

Rafita Haque is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Computer and Electrical Engineering at Florida International University (FIU), USA, where her research is focused on AI, biomedical sensors, PPG signal analysis, optical systems, and cardiovascular health. She is under the supervision of Dr. Nezih Pala. She previously completed her M.Sc. in Software Engineering from Daffodil International University, Bangladesh, with a thesis centered on consumer-to-consumer (C2C) information quality in Facebook-based purchasing decisions. Her academic focus was in Management Information Systems and data analysis, graduating with a CGPA of  Rafita earned her B.Sc. in Computer Science and Engineering from Gono Bishwabidyalay, where she developed a secure intra-university network management system for her final year project, graduating with a CGPA of Throughout her academic journey, she has integrated software engineering fundamentals with applied machine learning and security domains to develop impactful research in interdisciplinary technologies.

Experience

Rafita Haque has held multiple roles combining academia and industry. She served as a Lecturer in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at the Asian University of Bangladesh (AUB), and earlier at Daffodil International University. Her teaching repertoire included core courses like Operating Systems Design, Theory of Computing, and Programming Languages. Her role extended beyond classroom instruction to research collaboration and student mentoring. Before transitioning to academia, Rafita worked as a Software Quality Assurance (SQA) Engineer at Data-Soft Systems Bangladesh Ltd. and Cloud Production Ltd., where she was involved in banking and insurance-related AML (Anti-Money Laundering) software solutions. She applied her technical acumen in Python, ASP.NET, MySQL, and NoSQL technologies to modify, test, and document large-scale enterprise systems. These diverse experiences across teaching, research, and software engineering have shaped her into a versatile technology expert with a strong understanding of software reliability, cybersecurity, and academic innovation.

Award and Honor

Rafita Haque has received several academic and research distinctions. Most notably, she was awarded the Best Paper Award in the Internet of Things (IoT) Track at the 1st International Conference on Technology Innovation and Data Sciences (ICTIDS) in Malaysia. Earlier in her academic career, Rafita’s innovative project titled “Intra University Secure Network Management System” won the Best Project Award during the Spring  Project Fair at Gono Bishwabidyalay. Her excellence in research communication was also acknowledged through a Paper Presentation at Blockchain Olympiad Bangladesh (BCOLBD). These recognitions highlight her commitment to combining technical rigor with real-world applications. Her work has earned visibility and praise in both academic and public forums, establishing her as a promising researcher with both innovation potential and academic integrity. These accolades continue to drive her motivation toward impactful, ethical, and scalable technological solutions in the fields of health, AI, and cybersecurity.

Research Focus

Rafita Haque’s interdisciplinary research integrates Artificial Intelligence, biomedical sensors, signal processing, and data security. Her primary work at FIU focuses on using PPG signal analysis to improve cardiovascular health monitoring through AI-enhanced biomedical devices. Rafita also explores the integration of blockchain in securing Electronic Medical Records (EMRs), improving privacy and interoperability in healthcare communication systems. Previously, her research delved into Ajax vulnerability, session management flaws, and remote code execution, aligning with web application security. She has contributed to several Scopus and Springer-indexed publications on blockchain integration, CoT (Cloud of Things), and data-driven decision systems in smart environments. Rafita’s broader research vision is to harness intelligent, secure technologies to bridge healthcare gaps in under-resourced communities. Her future plans include advancing predictive models in biomedical engineering using deep learning and exploring real-time health monitoring systems powered by wearable sensors and blockchain infrastructure.

Research Skill

Rafita Haque brings a well-rounded skillset combining academic, technical, and analytical competencies. Her programming expertise includes Python, C/C++, JavaScript, Node.js, and ASP.NET. She is well-versed in blockchain platforms such as Ethereum, MetaMask, and Remix Framework, enabling secure and decentralized applications, especially in healthcare. In data analysis, she leverages tools like SPSS, PLS, and research methodology frameworks to conduct evidence-based studies. Her background in network and information security is bolstered by training in CCNA, RCE vulnerabilities, and cybersecurity practices. She has applied her knowledge in projects involving cloud computing, AML solutions, and secure communication systems. Rafita’s pedagogical skills include course design and student mentorship. Her interdisciplinary mindset allows her to excel in areas such as cardiovascular signal analysis, AI model development, project management, and system validation. She continuously upgrades her expertise through professional development and collaborative projects, ensuring a skillset aligned with industry and research trends.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Broken Authentication and Session Management Vulnerability: A Case Study of Web Application
Cited by: 48
Year: 2018

Title: Blockchain-based Information Security of Electronic Medical Records (EMR) in a Healthcare Communication System
Cited by: 36
Year: 2021

Title: Integration of Blockchain and Remote Database Access Protocol-Based Database
Cited by: 14
Year: 2020

Title: Modeling the Role of C2C Information Quality on Purchase Decision in Facebook
Cited by: 13
Year: 2018

Title: A Cloud of Things (CoT) Approach for Monitoring Product Purchase and Price Hike
Cited by: 10
Year: 2021

Title: Identification of Construction Era for Indian Subcontinent Ancient and Heritage Buildings by Using Deep Learning
Cited by: 10
Year: 2020

Title: Performance Analysis of Different Feature Detection Techniques for Modern and Old Buildings
Cited by: 9
Year: 2018

Title: A Study of Ajax Template Injection in Web Applications
Cited by: 9
Year: 2018

Title: A Combined Model of Blockchain, Price Intelligence and IoT for Reducing the Corruption and Poverty
Cited by: 8
Year: 2018

Conclusion

Rafita Haque’s academic progression, research diversity, and consistent involvement in impactful projects position her as a deserving recipient of the Best Researcher Award. Her ability to synthesize knowledge from software engineering, data science, and biomedical applications demonstrates her cross-disciplinary research potential. She is not only contributing to the academic domain but also aligning her research with societal needs—especially in healthcare innovation. With ongoing doctoral work in the U.S. and an expanding publication record, Rafita shows strong potential for future leadership in AI-driven biomedical research and academia.

Rosa Helena Veras Mourao | Diseases | Biodiversity Research Honour

Published on by Zoology Honour

Prof. Dr. Rosa Helena Veras Mourao | Diseases | Biodiversity Research Honour

Teacher at Universidade Federal do Oeste do Pará, Brazil

Dr. Rosa Helena Veras Mourão is a distinguished Brazilian scientist specializing in biochemistry, medicinal plants, and biodiversity research. She is a Professor at the Federal University of Western Pará (UFOPA) and has mentored numerous graduate students. Her work focuses on the bioactive properties of plant extracts, particularly in diabetes treatment, inflammation, and antimicrobial activity. She has co-founded startups promoting Amazonian biodiversity for sustainable industries, including natural dyes for fashion and bio-based food products. Through technological extWnsion projects, she collaborates with local Amazonian communities to develop sustainable business models. A former CNPq research productivity fellow, she has played a key role in advancing biodiversity research in Brazil. Dr. Mourão’s commitment to scientific innovation, education, and environmental sustainability makes her a leading figure in biochemical and biodiversity research.

Professional Profiles📖

ORCID

Education 🎓

Dr. Rosa Helena Veras Mourão earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the Federal University of Ceará (1993), where she built a strong foundation in biochemistry and plant biology. She continued her academic journey with a Master’s degree in Plant Biochemistry (1996) at the same institution, conducting research on bioactive compounds in medicinal plants.

She later pursued a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences (2006) at the Federal University of Pernambuco, where she specialized in medicinal biochemistry. During her doctoral studies, she completed a research internship at the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP) under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Mário Saad, further enhancing her expertise in biochemical research and pharmacology.

Her academic journey reflects a deep dedication to biochemical research and biodiversity conservation, positioning her as an expert in natural product biochemistry and sustainable innovation.

Work Experience💼

Dr. Mourão is currently a Professor at the Federal University of Western Pará (UFOPA), where she leads research in biochemical and biodiversity sciences. She actively supervises master’s and Ph.D. students in the fields of biodiversity, natural resources, and plant biochemistry, contributing to the development of future scientists in these areas.

As a Researcher in the Biodiversity & Biotechnology Network (BIONORTE), she is engaged in projects exploring the bioactive compounds of Amazonian flora. Her research focuses on the pharmacological potential of medicinal plants, essential oils, and antimicrobial agents derived from nature.

Beyond academia, she is an entrepreneur and innovator, having co-founded startups such as De Veras Amazônia, which promotes sustainable food innovation, and Xibé Oficial, which develops natural textile dyes using Amazonian plants.

In addition to her academic and entrepreneurial endeavors, she is deeply involved in community-based research in the Amazon. She develops social impact projects aimed at empowering local Amazonian communities, particularly by strengthening sustainable business models that protect biodiversity.

Her experience showcases a unique blend of academia, entrepreneurship, and community-driven research, making her a leader in biochemistry and sustainable biodiversity utilization.

Awards and Honors 🏆

Dr. Mourão’s contributions to scientific research and biodiversity conservation have earned her several prestigious awards. She was a recipient of the CNPq Research Productivity Fellowship (PQ2) until 2023, recognizing her excellence in biochemistry and biodiversity research.

She has also been honored with the BIONORTE Biodiversity Research Recognition Award, acknowledging her significant contributions to biotechnology and biodiversity conservation in Brazil.

As an educator, she received the UFOPA Distinguished Professor Award, highlighting her exceptional leadership in research and graduate education.

In the field of sustainable innovation, she was recognized with the Innovation in Sustainable Enterprises Award for her pioneering work with Amazonian startups that promote biodiversity-based products.

These honors highlight her impact in research, education, and sustainable development, reinforcing her role as a key figure in biochemical and environmental research.

Skills💡

Dr. Mourão possesses a diverse set of skills that blend scientific expertise, research leadership, and sustainable development. She is proficient in biochemical analysis and medicinal plant research, specializing in the study of essential oils and phytochemical characterization.

Her strengths in scientific writing and grant proposal development enable her to secure funding for major biodiversity research projects. As a mentor, she excels in graduate student supervision and academic mentorship, guiding the next generation of scientists.

Her work extends beyond the laboratory, as she actively engages in community-based research and social impact projects that promote sustainable product development and biotech innovation. She is an expert in interdisciplinary collaboration and research leadership, fostering partnerships across multiple scientific domains.

Dr. Mourão is also skilled in project management within scientific research, ensuring the successful execution of large-scale biodiversity and conservation initiatives. Additionally, she excels in public engagement and science communication, making complex research accessible to wider audiences.

Her multifaceted skills make her a leading figure in biochemical research, sustainable innovation, and biodiversity conservation.

Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Mourão’s research primarily focuses on medicinal plant biochemistry, where she studies bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Her work has contributed to the discovery of new natural remedies with potential pharmaceutical applications.

She is also actively involved in diabetes and metabolic disorder research, investigating plant-derived compounds for diabetes treatment. Her studies aim to develop natural therapeutic alternatives that can improve metabolic health and reduce reliance on synthetic drugs.

Another key area of her expertise is essential oils and natural extracts. She explores Amazonian plants’ essential oils for their therapeutic potential, particularly in anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial treatments.

Dr. Mourão is committed to sustainable biodiversity utilization, working on turning Amazonian biodiversity into commercially viable and environmentally friendly products. Through her research, she contributes to sustainable economic models that balance conservation with innovation.

In addition to her scientific endeavors, she is engaged in community-driven research, working with Amazonian communities to develop socially responsible and sustainable solutions for biodiversity conservation.

Her research spans biochemistry, pharmacology, and sustainability, making significant contributions to Amazonian biodiversity and global health.

Conclusion✅

Dr. Mourão is highly suitable for the Biodiversity Research Honour based on her contributions to biodiversity, sustainable development, and community-driven research in the Amazon. Her work integrates scientific discovery with real-world applications, aligning with the goals of biodiversity conservation and sustainable resource management. While international collaborations and high-impact publications could further strengthen her profile, her academic leadership, innovative contributions, and commitment to conservation make her a strong candidate for this recognition.

Publications Top Notes📚

 

“Volatile Constituents of Some Myrtaceous Edible and Medicinal Fruits from the Brazilian Amazon”

Journal: Foods

Year: 2024

DOI: 10.3390/foods13101490

“Molecular modelling and anticholinesterase activity of the essential oil from three chemotypes of Lippia alba (Mill.) N.E.Br. ex Britton & P. Wilson (Verbenaceae)”

Journal: Heliyon

Year: 2024

DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29063

“Volatile Constituents of Some Myrtaceous Edible and Medicinal Fruits from the Brazilian Amazon” (Preprint)

Year: 2024

DOI: 10.20944/preprints202403.1327.v1

“Antifungal chemosensitization through induction of oxidative stress: A model for control of candidiasis based on the Lippia origanoides essential oil”

Journal: Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciências

Year: 2024

DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765202420230532

“Distribution of Carapa Guianensis Associated to Topoclimatic Variables Indicating Potential Clusters for Cultivation in the State of Pará” (Preprint)

Year: 2023

DOI: 10.20944/preprints202311.1887.v1

“Seasonal Variation in Essential Oil Composition and Antioxidant Capacity of Aniba canelilla (Lauraceae): A Reliable Source of 1-Nitro-2-phenylethane”

Journal: Molecules

Year: 2023

DOI: 10.3390/molecules28227573

“Seasonal Influence on Volatile Composition of Psidium friedrichsthalianum Leaves, Sampled in the Brazilian Amazon”

Journal: Horticulturae

Year: 2023

DOI: 10.3390/horticulturae9070768

“Seasonal Variability of a Caryophyllane Chemotype Essential Oil of Eugenia patrisii Vahl Occurring in the Brazilian Amazon”

Journal: Molecules

Year: 2022

DOI: 10.3390/molecules27082417

“Atividade antioxidante de extratos de Myrciaria dubia (camu-camu) Myrtaceae”

Journal: Research, Society and Development

Year: 2022

DOI: 10.33448/rsd-v11i2.25130

“Individual Variability in Bothrops atrox Snakes Collected from Different Habitats in the Brazilian Amazon: New Findings on Venom Composition and Functionality”

Journal: Toxins

Year: 2021

DOI: 10.3390/toxins13110814

“The use of Myrcia sylvatica hydrolate (G.MEY.) DC. (Myrtaceae) as a sedative under simulated conditions of transport of juvenile tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum)”

Journal: Journal of Applied Aquaculture

Year: 2021

DOI: 10.1080/10454438.2020.1777243

“A Low Energy Approach for the Preparation of Nano-Emulsions with a High Citral-Content Essential Oil”

Journal: Molecules

Year: 2021

DOI: 10.3390/molecules26123666

“Myrciaria dubia (Kunth) McVaugh (Myrtales: Myrtaceae): análise dos produtos elaborados a partir do seu fruto”

Journal: Revista Brasileira de Gestão Ambiental e Sustentabilidade

Year: 2021

DOI: 10.21438/rbgas(2021)082026

“Chemical and Genotypic Variations in Aniba rosiodora from the Brazilian Amazon Forest”

Journal: Molecules

Year: 2020

DOI: 10.3390/molecules26010069

“Extração de substâncias pécticas do mesocarpo de Passiflora nitida Kunth. Passiforaceae”

Journal: Revista Fitos

Year: 2020

DOI: 10.32712/2446-4775.2020.917

“A herbal oil in water nano-emulsion prepared through an ecofriendly approach affects two tropical disease vectors”

Journal: Revista Brasileira de Farmacognosia

Year: 2019

DOI: 10.1016/j.bjp.2019.05.003

“Ventilatory frequency and anesthetic efficacy in silver catfish, Rhamdia quelen: a comparative approach between different essential oils”

Journal: Revista Brasileira de Zootecnia

Year: 2018

DOI: 10.1590/rbz4720170185

“The essential oil of Lippia alba and its components affect Drosophila behavior and synaptic physiology”

Journal: Journal of Experimental Biology

Year: 2018

DOI: 10.1242/jeb.176909