Rethabile Frangenie Motloung | Parasitology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Zoology Honour

Mrs. Rethabile Frangenie Motloung |Parasitology | Best Researcher Award

PhD Candidate at UNISA, South Africa

Rethabile Frangenie Motloung is a dedicated biodiversity scientist with over nine years of experience in species information systems, conservation policy, and stakeholder coordination. She currently serves as Scientist II at the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI), where she contributes to compiling and maintaining vital data on South Africa’s animal species. Her career spans roles in government and research institutions, where she has demonstrated expertise in biodiversity planning, environmental policy analysis, and project leadership. With a strong foundation in zoology, Rethabile’s academic and professional journey reflects a commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. She has presented her work at major scientific conferences and published in reputable journals. Passionate about advancing biodiversity knowledge and its integration into policy, she plays a crucial role in shaping conservation strategies in Southern Africa. Rethabile’s technical, analytical, and communication skills position her as a key advocate for ecological resilience and informed environmental governance.

Professional Profiles

Google Scholar |  ORCID Profile

Education

Rethabile holds a Master’s degree in Zoology from the University of Pretoria , where she researched the distribution of Australian Acacias in Southern Africa under the guidance of Dr. John Wilson, Prof. Mark Robertson, and Prof. Mathieu Rouget. Prior to this, she earned her Honours and Bachelor’s degrees in Zoology and Botany from the University of the Free State. Her Honours thesis focused on molecular detection techniques for Anaplasma marginale in cattle, and she achieved distinctions in both her undergraduate and Honours studies. Rethabile completed her secondary education at Phofung Senior Secondary School. Her academic path laid a robust scientific foundation and exposed her to interdisciplinary environmental challenges, especially those related to invasive species and conservation biology. Her education not only shaped her research interests but also empowered her with advanced analytical and GIS skills, which she continues to apply in her professional work at SANBI and in national conservation policy contexts.

 Experience

Rethabile Motloung has built a solid career in biodiversity and environmental management. At SANBI, where she has served as Scientist II since, she leads animal species information projects and supports national conservation policy through data cleaning, species-level analysis, and research. Prior to this, she worked as a Biodiversity Officer and Environmental Officer in the Western Cape Government, developing environmental policies, coordinating workshops, and mainstreaming biodiversity into governance structures. She also contributed to research on sustainability in education departments and conducted energy efficiency projects. Rethabile began her professional journey at SANBI as a Technical Assistant and Intern, focusing on spatial data for endemic plants. Her experience spans database management, project planning, policy consultation, and facilitating stakeholder engagement. Through these roles, she has contributed to strategic biodiversity frameworks while enhancing the accuracy and accessibility of ecological data across South Africa. Her contributions have had both scientific and policy-level impacts.

Award and Honor

Rethabile’s commitment to excellence in environmental science has been recognized through several prestigious awards. She received the South African National Biodiversity Institute Postgraduate Bursary for her Master’s degree, supporting her research on invasive species modeling. Additionally, she was granted the National Research Foundation (NRF) Innovation Award and NRF Honours Postgraduate Bursary, underscoring her academic merit and research potential. Her leadership and emerging influence in biodiversity conservation earned her the esteemed WWF Nedbank Green Trust Emerging Leaders Fellowship, administered by GreenMatter. These accolades reflect her contributions to ecological sustainability and her capability as a rising leader in natural sciences. Rethabile’s professional achievements are further amplified through affiliations with the South African Association of Botanists and her registration as a Candidate Scientist with the Southern African Council of Natural Science Professionals. Her award history highlights her dual strengths in rigorous scientific research and impactful environmental leadership.

Research Focus

Rethabile Frangenie Motloung’s research focuses on biodiversity data systems, species distribution modeling, and conservation planning. Her MSc research explored how climate-based species distribution models can predict the invasive potential of Australian Acacias, contributing valuable insights into managing ecological threats. At SANBI, her work emphasizes compiling species-level data for South Africa’s animal taxa, aligning conservation priorities with national biodiversity strategies. She is particularly interested in the biogeographical patterns of narrow-range endemic species, using spatial data and GIS tools to inform policy and prioritize conservation actions. Her work contributes to the foundational biodiversity knowledge base that supports legislation, planning frameworks, and the sustainable management of threatened ecosystems. Rethabile has presented on the role of bioclimatic modeling and endemic species conservation at national symposia, showcasing her ability to bridge scientific research with practical conservation needs. Her focus remains on integrating robust data into governance frameworks to support biodiversity protection in rapidly changing environments.

Research Skill

Rethabile possesses a versatile skill set that bridges research, policy, and project implementation. She excels in biodiversity policy development, environmental governance, and scientific data analysis. Her GIS proficiency supports spatial data mapping and species modeling, while her research background enables rigorous analysis of ecological data. With strong communication and facilitation skills, she effectively engages with governmental departments, NGOs, and scientific communities to promote sustainable practices. She is adept at organizing stakeholder workshops, writing technical reports, and developing legislative inputs. Rethabile is trained in project management, leadership for environmental sustainability, and sustainable development through programs from the Sustainability Institute and GreenMatter. Her ability to translate scientific evidence into practical policy recommendations enhances her impact in conservation planning. She thrives in collaborative, multidisciplinary settings and demonstrates high organizational competence in coordinating complex environmental projects. Her knowledge of civil society engagement and policy mainstreaming makes her a valuable contributor to biodiversity-focused initiatives in South Africa.

Publication Top Notes

Conclusion

Rethabile Frangenie Motloung is a well-rounded researcher and environmental leader with deep expertise in biodiversity science, policy integration, and ecological data management. Her contributions to national biodiversity assessments, species conservation strategies, and mainstreaming efforts have had measurable impacts on environmental governance in South Africa. She is not only a strong scientist but also a strategic thinker and mentor who fosters community engagement and capacity building.

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.

 

Beatriz Pires da Silva | Parasitology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Zoology Honour

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