Beatriz Pires da Silva | Parasitology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Beatriz Pires da Silva | Parasitology | Best Researcher Award

Master’s student in Parasitic Biology at Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Brazil

Beatriz Pires da Silva is a passionate biomedical scientist and Master’s student in Parasitic Biology at the Oswaldo Cruz Institute (Fiocruz), Brazil 🧪. From her undergraduate days, she has worked closely with the Malaria Research Laboratory (LPM), a reference center in the extra-Amazon region 🇧🇷. Beatriz’s early scientific contributions focus on zoonotic malaria transmission and molecular diagnostic markers for Plasmodium falciparum. Her first-author publication has contributed to raising awareness of lesser-known transmission pathways of malaria in Brazil, with implications for public health policies. She has collaborated with respected international scientists such as Didier Menard and George Snounou 🌍. Though at the beginning of her career, Beatriz exhibits exceptional dedication to research, public health, and scientific development. Her goal is to continue building knowledge that supports malaria control, elimination, and innovation through evidence-based molecular research and collaborative science 🤝.

Professional Profiles📖

ORCID

Education 🎓

Beatriz Pires da Silva is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Parasitic Biology at the Oswaldo Cruz Institute / Fiocruz in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil 📘. Her educational journey began during her undergraduate studies in Biomedical Sciences, where she engaged in research at the Malaria Research Laboratory (LPM), a leading center for malaria studies in the Brazilian extra-Amazon region 🔬. During this time, she was actively involved in molecular diagnostic activities, gaining hands-on training in techniques crucial to infectious disease analysis. Her graduation thesis focused on zoonotic malaria transmission and has since evolved into a published scientific article 📝. Through her academic path, Beatriz has demonstrated a commitment to mastering the molecular aspects of parasitology and developing research that bridges field data with laboratory science. She continues to expand her academic skills in genetics, epidemiology, and malaria diagnosis, setting a strong foundation for a career in tropical disease research 🌿.

Work Experience💼

Beatriz’s research experience began at the Malaria Research Laboratory (LPM), where she worked during her undergraduate years as a student researcher 👩‍🔬. She actively participated in the molecular diagnosis routine at CPD-Mal (Malaria Research, Diagnosis, and Training Center), gaining valuable practical exposure to real-time diagnostics, PCR, and gene analysis 🧬. Her main contribution during this time was compiling and analyzing data related to zoonotic malaria transmission in Brazil’s extra-Amazon region — a project that led to her first scientific publication. Currently, she is researching deletions and mutations in the pfhrp2 and pfhrp3 genes in Plasmodium falciparum, which are vital for improving rapid diagnostic tests in Brazil ⚕️. Although early in her career, Beatriz has already formed international collaborations and contributed meaningfully to understanding malaria transmission patterns. Her experience reflects a blend of laboratory precision, scientific writing, data interpretation, and an evolving understanding of global parasitic diseases 🌎.

Awards and Honors 🏆

As a rising early-career researcher, Beatriz Pires da Silva is now entering the stage of her academic journey where formal recognitions are beginning to emerge 🌟. While she has not yet received major individual awards, her recent first-author publication and active research involvement at one of Brazil’s premier public health institutions (Fiocruz) are testaments to her growing impact 🧬. Her collaborations with leading global malaria experts such as Didier Menard and George Snounou are prestigious achievements that reflect her research potential. Beatriz’s current nomination for the Best Researcher Award stands as her first significant external recognition — highlighting her commitment to science, molecular innovation, and public health improvement. As her publication count grows and her research reaches broader audiences, she is poised to earn academic and scientific honors in the near future for her efforts in neglected tropical diseases and molecular parasitology 🏆.

Skills💡

Beatriz Pires da Silva brings a strong foundation in molecular biology techniques including DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and molecular diagnostics 🧪. She is skilled in scientific literature review, data analysis, and academic writing, as demonstrated by her first-author publication in the area of zoonotic malaria 📖. Her analytical thinking, precision in lab work, and structured approach to scientific inquiries allow her to handle complex datasets and molecular evidence efficiently. Beatriz is also adept at collaborating across disciplines and engaging with international research teams 🤝. Her experience at CPD-Mal equipped her with practical knowledge in real-time diagnostics and laboratory routines for parasitic diseases. Additionally, she is developing competencies in bioinformatics and gene analysis tools, specifically in studying genetic deletions in Plasmodium falciparum. Bilingual communication (Portuguese and English) adds to her strengths, enabling global academic collaboration. She continues to expand her skill set to support research excellence and innovation 🌐.

Research Focus 🔬

Beatriz Pires da Silva’s research is centered on the molecular biology of malaria, with particular attention to zoonotic transmission and gene deletions affecting diagnostic tools 🔍. Her first major contribution involved a review of zoonotic malaria in Brazil’s extra-Amazon region, where she synthesized ecological, entomological, and molecular data to clarify underreported transmission pathways 🦟. This work addresses a gap in malaria control strategies and has implications for Brazil’s elimination goals. Currently, Beatriz is investigating deletions in the pfhrp2 and pfhrp3 genes of Plasmodium falciparum, which can impair the accuracy of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) — a key issue in malaria diagnosis and treatment 📊. Her research bridges molecular genetics, epidemiology, and diagnostic innovation, reflecting a multidisciplinary and impactful approach to parasitic disease management. With strong analytical skills and a commitment to applied science, Beatriz is contributing to more effective public health interventions through molecular-level insights 🧫.

Conclusion✅

Beatriz Pires da Silva, although at the beginning of her academic career, demonstrates remarkable promise, rigor, and a deep commitment to solving real-world challenges in malaria research. Her work already contributes to an underrepresented but vital domain — zoonotic malaria — and has implications for national health strategies. While not yet seasoned enough to compete with established senior researchers for the “Best Researcher Award,” she stands out as an exceptional candidate for an early-career or emerging researcher category. Her profile suggests a bright future marked by meaningful contributions to parasitology and global health.

Publications Top Notes📚

Publication Title: Autochthonous malaria in Brazil outside the Amazon: Emergence, zoonotic transmission and implications for disease control

Journal: One Health

Publication Date: December 2024

DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2024.100928

Rosa Helena Veras Mourao | Diseases | Biodiversity Research 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