Francois Galgani | Chemical Pollution | Best Paper Award

Dr. Francois Galgani | Chemical Pollution | Best Paper Award

Senior scientist, IFREMER, France

Dr. François Galgani is a renowned French oceanographer and senior scientist at IFREMER, with a distinguished career dedicated to marine pollution, particularly marine litter. Based in Bonifacio, France, he chairs the non-profit Echos D’Oceans and plays pivotal roles in international advisory groups like GESAMP and IOC. His expertise spans oceanology, ecotoxicology, and environmental policy. Dr. Galgani served as chair and co-chair of major international and EU groups, contributing significantly to marine litter strategies across the Mediterranean, EU, and global initiatives. He has authored 200+ peer-reviewed articles and serves as Editor-in-Chief of Marine Pollution Bulletin. A passionate advocate for sustainable oceans, he is involved in the UN Decade for Ocean Science and supports global environmental frameworks. His work bridges science and policy, influencing directives like the EU MSFD and frameworks like SDG 14.1.1 🌍🔬📘.

Profile

Orcid

Education 

🎓 Dr. François Galgani’s academic foundation combines rigorous scientific training and strategic management. He earned a Ph.D. in Oceanology in 1983 from Aix-Marseille II (MIO), followed by a Master’s in Oceanography in 1981. In 1987, he gained a certificate in financial management from the prestigious ESCP Business School, Paris, equipping him with administrative acumen. That same year, he also achieved a research management habilitation from Aix-Marseille II. Broadening his expertise in biological sciences, he completed a degree in Molecular Biology from the University of Nantes in 1991. This rich multidisciplinary background—spanning ocean sciences, molecular biology, and management—enabled Dr. Galgani to lead complex scientific projects and international environmental initiatives effectively. His strong educational base continues to underpin his research in marine pollution and policy advising on ocean sustainability. 🌊🔬📚

Experience 

🧪 Dr. François Galgani’s career spans over four decades of impactful scientific research, leadership, and global environmental governance. Since 2022, he has served as a senior scientist at IFREMER. From 2008 to 2022, he was the head of IFREMER Corsica, directing labs and regional projects. Previously, he held project manager roles in IFREMER Sete and Toulon. Earlier in his career, he led the ecotoxicology lab in Nantes and served as a program manager. His international experience includes a postdoctoral fellowship at Tokyo University of Fisheries and a visiting scientist position at Stanford University in 1993. Dr. Galgani has also worked in IFREMER Tahiti and has led major EU, Mediterranean, and UN projects. Beyond research, he contributes policy insights to global marine litter reduction and monitoring strategies. His career reflects a strong fusion of field expertise, laboratory leadership, and international collaboration. 🌍🔎🧫

Research Focus 

🔬 Dr. François Galgani’s research focuses on marine pollution, especially the sources, distribution, impacts, and mitigation of marine litter. His work spans ecotoxicology, oceanography, molecular biology, modeling, and environmental management. As a leading figure in marine litter science, he contributed to developing and implementing international monitoring systems under EU directives (e.g., MSFD Descriptor 10) and UN regional action plans. He supports policies on global, regional, and national levels for marine environmental protection, offering expertise to organizations like UNEP, GESAMP, and the European Commission. He has a keen interest in developing harmonized monitoring protocols, data management strategies, and risk assessment models. Dr. Galgani also advises scientific institutions and governments worldwide, including those in Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, French Polynesia, and Australia. His research not only addresses marine debris but also informs long-term sustainability goals and conservation policies. 🌐♻️🧪

Publication Top Note

EMODnet Visualization products for beach litter data
National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics, 2025 | Report
DOI: 10.13120/14cc-r118
Contributors: François Gaudin, Maria Eugenia Molina Jack, Matteo Vinci, Alexia Cociancich, Alessandra GIORGETTI, Morgan Le Moigne, Erwann Quimbert, Alexander Barth, Neil Holdsworth, François Galgani et al.

EMODnet Visualization products for seafloor litter data
National Institute of Oceanography and Applied Geophysics, 2025 | Report
DOI: 10.13120/c622d045-94ed-4b6a-9c78-404e86b8b9a3.v1
Contributors: François Gaudin, Gwenaël Caer, Maria Eugenia Molina Jack, Matteo Vinci, Alexia Cociancich, Alessandra GIORGETTI, Morgan Le Moigne, Erwann Quimbert, Alexander Barth, Neil Holdsworth et al.

Plastic and oceans
2025 | Book chapter
DOI: 10.1016/B978-0-443-15779-0.00004-3
Contributors: François Galgani, Maes Thomas, Li Daoji

Working Group on Marine Litter (WGML; outputs from 2024 meeting)
ICES Scientific Reports/Rapports scientifiques du CIEM, 2025 | Journal article
DOI: 10.17895/ices.pub.28685027

Marine litter in the deepest site of the Mediterranean Sea
Marine Pollution Bulletin, April 2025 | Journal article
DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2025.117610
Contributors: Hanke Georg, Canals Miquel, Vescovo Victor, MacDonald Tim, Martini Eirini, Ruiz-Orejón Luis F., François Galgani, Palma Marco, Papatheodorou George, Ioakeimidis Christos et al.

Mission Tara Microplastics: a holistic set of protocols and data resources for the field investigation of plastic pollution along the land-sea continuum in Europe
Environmental Science and Pollution Research, April 2025 | Journal article
DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26883-9
Contributors: Ghiglione Jean-François, Barbe Valérie, Bruzaud Stéphane, Burgaud Gaëtan, Cachot Jerome, Eyheraguibel Boris, Lartaud Franck, Ludwig Wolfgang, Meistertzheim Anne-Leila, Paul PONT Ika et al.

Déchets flottants. Région marine Méditerranée
Ifremer, 2024 | Book
DOI: 10.13155/98198
Contributors: Olivia Gerigny, Elise Georges, Mélanie Brun, Maxime Olsommer, Sophie Beauvais, François Galgani

Conclusion

François Galgani stands as a pioneering force in marine environmental science, with a distinguished career spanning over four decades. As a senior scientist at IFREMER and Chair of Echos D’Océans, his global contributions have significantly advanced our understanding of marine litter, ocean pollution, and environmental monitoring. His leadership in international expert groups, EU missions, and UN initiatives reflects a profound commitment to sustainable ocean management. With over 200 peer-reviewed publications and key editorial roles in top journals, Galgani’s influence bridges science and policy. His work continues to inspire collaborative action for cleaner, healthier oceans worldwide. 🌍🌊📘

Jorge Amador Berlanga-Acosta | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr Jorge Amador Berlanga-Acosta | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Research project leader, Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cuba

Dr. Jorge Amador Berlanga Acosta is a distinguished Cuban veterinary medicine and pharmaceutical scientist, born on October 11, 1962, in Bayamo, Granma, Cuba. With a career spanning over three decades, he specializes in the pharmacological applications of Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) for wound healing and diabetic foot ulcers. He holds several prestigious titles, including Member of Honor of the Cuban National Academy of Science and Distinguished Professor at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China. Dr. Berlanga has made significant contributions to biomedical research and has been instrumental in various clinical trials and technical missions across multiple continents, earning recognition for his impactful work in regenerative medicine and pharmacology. His expertise is complemented by a strong commitment to education and mentorship in the scientific community. 🌟

Profile

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Education and Training: Dr. Berlanga has a solid academic background with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacology. His post-doctoral fellowships at prestigious institutions like the University of Alberta and Imperial Cancer Research Fund highlight his commitment to advancing medical knowledge.
  2. Research Contributions: His extensive work on epidermal growth factor (EGF) and its applications in wound healing, particularly in diabetic foot ulcers, is groundbreaking. He has led numerous research projects and has a substantial number of publications in reputable journals, indicating his active engagement in critical biomedical research.
  3. Recognition and Awards: Dr. Berlanga has received numerous prestigious awards, including the “Héroe del Trabajo de la República de Cuba” and various international recognitions, showcasing his impact and contributions to the field.
  4. Leadership in Scientific Community: His roles in coordinating research commissions, leading projects, and serving as a speaker at over 40 international conferences illustrate his leadership and influence in the scientific community.
  5. Multidisciplinary Approach: His research spans various aspects of pharmacology, tissue repair, and regenerative medicine, demonstrating his ability to integrate knowledge across disciplines effectively.
  6. International Collaboration: Dr. Berlanga’s involvement in international workshops and conferences shows his commitment to collaboration and the dissemination of knowledge globally.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Research Scope: While Dr. Berlanga’s focus on EGF is significant, exploring additional areas of research could enhance his impact. Diversifying his research portfolio may lead to novel insights and applications in other fields of medicine.
  2. Public Engagement and Communication: Increasing his outreach efforts to communicate research findings to the general public could enhance the visibility of his work and its implications for healthcare.
  3. Mentorship Opportunities: Engaging more with younger researchers and students through mentorship programs could foster the next generation of scientists and broaden the research community’s perspectives.
  4. Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Further collaboration with other scientific disciplines, such as engineering or technology, could lead to innovative approaches in his research areas.

Education

Dr. Berlanga’s educational journey began with primary education in Bayamo, Granma, followed by secondary schooling. He obtained his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the Universidad de Granma in 1985. He furthered his studies with a PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacology from the Universidad de La Habana in 2000. His academic pursuits included post-doctoral fellowships at renowned institutions, such as the University of Alberta in Canada and the Leicester General Hospital in the UK, focusing on wound healing and gastroenterology. Additionally, he completed numerous specialization courses in clinical pathology, molecular biology, and experimental pharmacology. His diverse educational background has equipped him with the knowledge and skills to advance biomedical research and contribute to the field significantly. 🎓

Experience

Dr. Berlanga’s professional experience includes roles as an instructor and assistant lecturer in Anatomical Pathology at the Universidad de Granma and as an Associate Professor of Pathology. He has been a researcher at the Centro de Ingeniería Genética y Biotecnología (CIGB) in Havana, focusing on EGF’s pharmacological effects and wound healing mechanisms. Over the years, he has led various departments and projects within CIGB, including preclinical studies and diabetic foot ulcer healing initiatives. His leadership has driven significant advancements in understanding tissue repair and regeneration. In addition to his research, Dr. Berlanga has been a prominent speaker at numerous international conferences, sharing his findings and fostering collaboration in the scientific community. His extensive experience has established him as a leading figure in the field of biomedical sciences. 🔬

Awards and Honors

Dr. Berlanga’s contributions to science have earned him numerous accolades. He received the Alberta Heritage Foundation Scholarship in 1995 and the Royal Society Annual Award in 1998. In 2011, he was honored with the Distinción Carlos J. Finlay and recognized by the World Intellectual Property Organization as the best young inventor. His achievements include being named Hijo Ilustre de Granma and Bayamo, as well as receiving the prestigious title of Héroe del Trabajo de la República de Cuba in 2020. He has also been acknowledged as a Distinguished Professor at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China. These awards highlight his significant impact on science and society through innovative research and dedication to education. 🏆

Research Focus

Dr. Berlanga’s research primarily focuses on the pharmacological applications of Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) in wound healing and tissue regeneration. His investigations have led to the development of various animal models to study EGF’s effects on diabetic foot ulcers, ischemia/reperfusion injury, and gastrointestinal health. He explores the molecular mechanisms underlying EGF’s protective properties and its role in enhancing healing processes. His work also includes studying cellular pathologic memory and its implications in diabetes and wound chronicity. Dr. Berlanga’s commitment to advancing regenerative medicine continues to shape therapeutic strategies for complex wound healing challenges, making significant contributions to biomedical science. 🧬

Publication Top Notes

  • Epidermal growth factor enemas with oral mesalamine for mild-to-moderate left-sided ulcerative colitis or proctitis
  • The pro‐inflammatory environment in recalcitrant diabetic foot wounds
  • Intra‐lesional injections of recombinant human epidermal growth factor promote granulation and healing in advanced diabetic foot ulcers: multicenter, randomised, placebo …
  • Epidermal growth factor in clinical practice–a review of its biological actions, clinical indications and safety implications
  • Intralesional administration of epidermal growth factor‐based formulation (Heberprot‐P) in chronic diabetic foot ulcer: treatment up to complete wound closure
  • Intralesional injections of Citoprot‐P® (recombinant human epidermal growth factor) in advanced diabetic foot ulcers with risk of amputation
  • Glucose toxic effects on granulation tissue productive cells: the diabetics’ impaired healing
  • Epidermal growth factor intralesional infiltrations can prevent amputation in patients with advanced diabetic foot wounds
  • Diabetic foot ulcers and epidermal growth factor: revisiting the local delivery route for a successful outcome
  • Gastrointestinal cell proliferation and crypt fission are separate but complementary means of increasing tissue mass following infusion of epidermal growth factor in rats
  • Diabetic lower extremity wounds: the rationale for growth factors‐based infiltration treatment
  • Healing enhancement of diabetic wounds by locally infiltrated epidermal growth factor is associated with systemic oxidative stress reduction
  • Cellular senescence as the pathogenic hub of diabetes-related wound chronicity
  • Wound chronicity, impaired immunity and infection in diabetic patients
  • Insulin resistance at the crossroad of Alzheimer disease pathology: A review
  • Potency and stability of C terminal truncated human epidermal growth factor
  • Systemic translation of locally infiltrated epidermal growth factor in diabetic lower extremity wounds
  • Epidermal growth factor (EGF) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) as tissue healing agents: clarifying concerns about their possible role in malignant transformation and …
  • Intestinal growth in parenterally‐fed rats induced by the combined effects of glucagon‐like peptide 2 and epidermal growth factor
  • Medical practice confirms clinical trial results of the use of intralesional human recombinant epidermal growth factor in advanced diabetic foot ulcers

Conclusion

Dr. Jorge Amador Berlanga Acosta exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher through his extensive educational background, significant contributions to science, and recognized leadership. His innovative work on EGF and wound healing positions him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. By broadening his research scope, enhancing public engagement, and fostering mentorship, he can further elevate his impact on the scientific community and society at large.

 

 

Mrs Zhainagul Abdirasulova | Public health | Young Scientist Award

Mrs Zhainagul Abdirasulova | Public health | Young Scientist Award

Mrs Zhainagul Abdirasulova, Osh State University ,Kyrgyzstan

Dr. Zhainagul Abdirasulova is a dedicated obstetrician-gynecologist based in Osh, Kyrgyzstan. She graduated with honors from Osh State University and completed her residency at the Osh City Perinatal Center. With six years of teaching experience and a private practice since 2022, she is committed to women’s health, specializing in obstetrics and gynecology. Dr. Abdirasulova actively enhances her skills through international workshops and seminars, contributing significantly to medical education and clinical practice. Her passion for improving maternal and child health is evident in her extensive qualifications and active participation in medical conferences worldwide.

Publication Profile

scopus

Education

Dr. Zhainagul Abdirasulova, born on May 16, 1993, distinguished herself early in her medical journey, graduating with honors from Osh State University’s Faculty of Medicine in 2017. She further specialized in obstetrics and gynecology, completing a rigorous two-year clinical residency at the Osh City Perinatal Center by 2019.

Academic Contributions

Dr. Zhainagul Abdirasulova has cultivated a robust teaching career spanning six years across multiple universities, driven by a profound dedication to education. Her pursuit of professional growth is underscored by a diverse array of certifications acquired both locally and internationally. She has earned accolades in occupational and environmental health, pedagogical methodologies, and advanced clinical practices, reflecting her commitment to staying abreast of evolving medical standards. Dr. Abdirasulova’s academic contributions extend beyond the classroom, influencing medical education and clinical practice through her expertise and continuous pursuit of excellence in obstetrics and gynecology.

Research Focus

The research by Ahmad, Sharif, Ahmad, Gul, and Abdirasulovna investigates the impact of the digital economy on female employment across countries using a panel data analysis approach. Focusing on economic trends, the study examines how digitalization influences opportunities for women in the workforce. By analyzing data from multiple nations, it aims to uncover correlations between digital economic development and female labor participation rates. The findings aim to contribute insights into policy-making and initiatives that could enhance gender equality in employment, highlighting the potential of digital technologies to empower women economically on a global scale.

 

Publication Top Notes

Does the digital economy improve female employment? A cross-country panel data analysis