Bonewendé Mohamed Belemlilga | Drug Development | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Bonewendé Mohamed Belemlilga | Drug Development | Best Researcher Award

Reseacher at Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Sante, Burkina Faso

Bonewendé Mohamed BELEMLILGA is a distinguished Burkinabè research associate specializing in Animal Pharmacology and Physiology at the Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé (IRSS/CNRST). With a career marked by extensive contributions to ethnopharmacology, phytomedicine development, and preclinical drug evaluation, he has become a central figure in advancing traditional medicine through scientific validation in Burkina Faso and across West Africa. His leadership extends to key roles such as Head of the Research and Evaluation Department at IRSS and editorial board member for the Science de la Santé journal. He is also actively involved in national research strategy formulation, having served on committees crafting the CNRST’s 2025–2029 strategic research plan. Dr. BELEMLILGA’s expertise is further reflected in over 50 peer-reviewed publications focusing on pharmacological studies, toxicity assessments, and the pharmacodynamic properties of medicinal plants. His dedication to bridging traditional knowledge and modern science has led him to coordinate and participate in several national and international research projects, educational programs, and clinical investigations. With a solid background in both experimental research and academic supervision, he represents a dynamic blend of scholarly depth, technical skill, and visionary research leadership in African health science innovation.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Bonewendé Mohamed BELEMLILGA pursued his higher education at the University of Ouagadougou, where he demonstrated a consistent commitment to excellence in health and biological sciences. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences in 2007, followed by a Master’s degree in Biological Sciences with a specialization in Animal Biology and Physiology in 2008. He then advanced to complete a DEA (Diplôme d’Études Approfondies) in Applied Pharmacology and Toxicology from the UFR-SDS in 2011, achieving honors for his academic performance. His doctoral studies culminated in a Ph.D. in Applied Pharmaceutical Sciences, with a specialization in Applied Pharmacology, awarded by the Doctoral School of Health in 2019. His dissertation focused on the pharmacological and phytochemical properties of Saba senegalensis, a plant traditionally used to treat parasitic infections. This strong academic foundation equipped Dr. BELEMLILGA with the skills necessary for rigorous scientific research in pharmacology and ethnomedicine. In addition, his multilingual proficiency in French and English and his strong computer skills enhance his ability to operate effectively in both national and international academic settings. His academic path reflects a deep-seated dedication to public health through biomedical innovation.

Professional Experience

Dr. BELEMLILGA’s professional journey is marked by a rich tapestry of research, teaching, and leadership roles. Since 2020, he has served as a research associate in Animal Pharmacology-Physiology at IRSS/CNRST, while also heading the Research and Evaluation Department since January 2024. He has been instrumental in multiple strategic planning committees, including the Commission for Research and Innovation, the CNRST’s disciplinary board, and the drafting of national research strategies for 2025–2029. As a temporary lecturer at Université Saint Thomas d’Aquin, he has also been active in academic mentorship, supervising multiple master’s and doctoral theses. His expertise has been recognized internationally, exemplified by training certifications in Good Clinical Practice (ICH E6 R2), clinical research, and laboratory quality systems. Dr. BELEMLILGA has coordinated numerous clinical and pharmacological projects, notably on phytomedicines for gastrointestinal and respiratory illnesses. His fieldwork includes internships and collaborative research across France, Côte d’Ivoire, and Ghana. He is a founding member of the Société de Pharmacologie et Toxicologie du Burkina (SOPHATOX-B) and a contributor to numerous workshops and training programs. Through these roles, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to evidence-based health science rooted in traditional knowledge.

Research Interest

Dr. BELEMLILGA’s research interests lie at the dynamic intersection of ethnopharmacology, parasitology, toxicology, and pharmacognosy. His central scientific pursuit focuses on validating traditional medicinal practices by elucidating the pharmacological properties of plant-based therapies used in Burkina Faso and West Africa. With a special emphasis on parasitic diseases and gastrointestinal infections, he has conducted extensive in vitro and in vivo experiments to evaluate antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant, and anthelmintic activities of natural plant extracts. Plants like Saba senegalensis, Balanites aegyptiaca, and Gomphrena serrata are frequently featured in his studies. His research also involves toxicological screening to ensure the safety of phytomedicines intended for human or veterinary use. In recent years, Dr. BELEMLILGA has expanded his interest into clinical trial design, especially in the context of plant-based antimalarial and anti-parasitic formulations. He is also actively engaged in capacity building and promoting best practices in traditional medicine production and usage. His research aims to bridge the gap between indigenous healing systems and modern biomedicine, contributing to global health initiatives through culturally grounded scientific innovation.

Research Skills

Dr. BELEMLILGA has cultivated a robust set of interdisciplinary research skills that underpin his expertise in ethnopharmacology and biomedical sciences. His core competencies include phytochemical screening, bioassay-guided fractionation, pharmacodynamic and toxicological testing of natural extracts, and the standardization of phytomedicines. He is well-versed in both qualitative and quantitative experimental techniques, ranging from in vivo efficacy trials to molecular analytical methods such as chemical profiling via molecular networking. His hands-on experience includes high-level laboratory procedures, animal experimentation, and clinical trial coordination adhering to international GCP standards. Dr. BELEMLILGA is proficient in project management, having led and contributed to multiple funded research initiatives across Africa and Europe. He is also skilled in academic writing and peer-review processes, serving as an excellent reviewer for several scientific journals. As a scientific trainer and lecturer, he has transferred knowledge to students and health professionals through numerous workshops, including those hosted by the WHO-TDR and local universities. His ability to design, implement, and evaluate complex biomedical studies places him at the forefront of research promoting safe and effective traditional medicine integration.

Awards and Honors

Dr. BELEMLILGA’s contributions have been acknowledged through numerous awards, certifications, and prestigious appointments. In 2022 and 2023, he was recognized with the Certificate of Excellence for his role as a peer reviewer in leading scientific journals. His leadership in the IRSS/CNRST has earned him positions on key national committees, such as the Commission for Research and Innovation and the Editorial Board of Sciences et Technique. He has received multiple certifications from renowned organizations like WHO-TDR and the Global Health Network, reflecting international recognition of his expertise in clinical research and pharmacological evaluation. As a founding member of SOPHATOX-B and a certified trainer in ethnopharmacology, Dr. BELEMLILGA has significantly contributed to capacity-building initiatives across West Africa. His scientific publications have garnered citations and respect within the fields of traditional medicine and drug development. His work has not only influenced policy frameworks in Burkina Faso but has also enhanced the global visibility of African medicinal plant research. These accolades underscore his commitment to excellence, collaboration, and innovation in public health research and education.

Conclusion

Dr. Bonewendé Mohamed BELEMLILGA exemplifies a new generation of African researchers bridging traditional medicine with modern pharmacological science. With a career grounded in rigorous education and enriched by international collaborations, he continues to push the boundaries of phytomedicine research in West Africa. His work has had a tangible impact on both policy and practice, particularly in the validation and clinical assessment of indigenous medicinal formulations. As a research associate, academic mentor, strategic planner, and scientific communicator, he has made enduring contributions to the biomedical landscape in Burkina Faso and beyond. His dedication to interdisciplinary research, ethical scientific practice, and public health empowerment demonstrates a holistic vision for African health innovation. Through an impressive portfolio of publications, funded projects, and leadership roles, Dr. BELEMLILGA is shaping the future of pharmacological research rooted in cultural relevance and scientific integrity. His continued efforts promise to yield new therapies, foster research capacity, and inspire the next generation of scholars committed to sustainable, evidence-based healthcare solutions in Africa and globally.

Publications Top Notes

  1. chemical analysis by molecular networking methods on extracts of saba senegalensis and its anthelmintic activity on caenorhabditis elegans
    Authors: Mohamed B. Belemlilga, Hazrina Hazni, Aristide Traore, Indira Dennemont, Sébastien Pomel, Sandrine Cojean, Mehdi A. Beniddir, Sylvin Ouedraogo, Christian Bories, Philippe M. Loiseau
    Year: 2025

  2. evaluation of anti-inflammatory activities and acute toxicity of the leaves aqueous macerate of boscia senegalensis
    Authors: Mohamed B. Belemlilga, Mathieu Nitiema, Aristide Traore, Eric Nanema, Souleymane Compaore, G. Geoffroy Ouedraogo, Sylvain Ilboudo, Lazare Belemnaba, Noufou Ouedraogo, Félix B. Kini
    Year: 2025

  3. toxicity assessment of a phytomedicine based on an almond extract from the fruit of balanites aegyptiaca intended for helminthiases care in burkina faso
    Authors: G. G. Ouedraogo, M. B. Belemlilga, T. Kouguilima, G. D. Somda, S. Ilboudo, S. Ouedraogo, A. Traore, L. Belemnaba, F. B. Kini, S. Ouedraogo
    Year: 2025

  4. acute toxicity and anthelmintic effects of gomphrena serrata extracts on adult worms and eggs of haemonchus contortus
    Authors: H. Ouedraogo, M. B. Belemlilga, A. Traore, G. A. L. Boly, F. Moyenga, G. G. Ouedraogo, S. Ilboudo, L. Belemnaba, S. Ouedraogo
    Year: 2024

  5. antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of an acazy herbal formula used in traditional medicine to treat respiratory infections
    Authors: M. B. Belemlilga, B. Bayala, G. A. L. Boly, M. A. Ouédraogo, A. R. Boina, B. Yaro, F. Badea, C. Diguti, M. Koala, D. P. Ilboudo, et al.
    Year: 2024

  6. optimization and standardization of the extraction method of balanites aegyptiaca seeds used in the formulation of an antiparasitic phytomedicine
    Authors: M. B. Belemlilga, S. Ouedraogo, G. A. L. Boly, D. H. Dao, J. T. Coulibaly, J. C. R. P. Ouedraogo, S. Compaoré, S. Traore, M. Koala, E. N. H. Youl
    Year: 2024

  7. evaluation of acute and subacute toxicity and sedative effect of feretia apodanthera leaves
    Authors: A. S. Silue, S. Ilboudo, T. A. Djadji, G. Ouedraogo, M. B. Belemlilga, G. Kouakou-Siransy, R. Semdé
    Year: 2024

  8. phytochemical profile, acute toxicity, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of hydroethanolic extracts from odontonema strictum root and stem
    Authors: M. Nitiema, L. Belemnaba, C. W. R. Ouedraogo, M. B. Belemlilga, S. Ouedraogo, M. Koala, A. Traore, J. F. Aïkpe, N. Ouedraogo, F. B. Kini
    Year: 2024

  9. phytochemical and in vitro anthelmintic properties of mesocarp of fruit extracts from balanites aegyptiaca
    Author: Mohamed Bonewendé Belemlilga
    Year: 2024

Yi Lu | Material Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yi Lu | Material Science | Best Researcher Award

Beijing University of Technology, China

Dr. Yi Lu is a dedicated researcher and academic at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Technology. With a strong focus on aluminum alloys, Dr. Lu has developed a deep expertise in understanding the intricate relationship between their mechanical properties and microstructure. Over the course of her academic journey, she has been actively involved in a national key research and development project, contributing significantly to the advancement of materials science in China. Dr. Lu has authored multiple peer-reviewed journal articles, including four SCI-indexed papers, two of which are published in top-tier SCI1 journals. Her research outputs have garnered six citations to date, reflecting the growing relevance of her work in the scientific community. She has also established international research collaboration with the University of Auckland, further enhancing the global dimension of her academic contributions. Although early in her career, Dr. Lu’s commitment to innovation and excellence positions her as a promising figure in the field. Her work encompasses both theoretical and applied aspects of materials science, with special attention to corrosion behavior, hydrogen embrittlement, and refining processes in aluminum alloys. Driven by a passion for discovery, Dr. Lu continues to push the boundaries of research and make meaningful contributions to her field.

Professional Profiles

Education

Dr. Yi Lu pursued her academic training in materials science with a strong emphasis on metal research, particularly aluminum alloys. She earned her advanced degrees from reputable institutions that laid a strong foundation for her scientific pursuits. Throughout her studies, she demonstrated exceptional analytical and experimental skills, which were honed through hands-on laboratory work and advanced coursework in metallurgy, corrosion science, mechanical behavior of materials, and materials processing. Her educational journey emphasized the integration of theoretical knowledge with experimental application, preparing her to explore complex research topics such as microstructural characterization and failure mechanisms in metals. During her graduate studies, she was actively involved in collaborative research, presenting her work at seminars and contributing to peer-reviewed publications. These academic experiences sharpened her ability to approach scientific challenges methodically and rigorously. Her thesis focused on understanding the influence of microstructure on the mechanical and corrosion properties of aluminum alloys, a subject that continues to underpin her current research. The depth of her education, coupled with her persistent curiosity and discipline, has equipped Dr. Lu with the tools necessary to make substantial contributions in the field of materials science. Her academic background continues to serve as a vital pillar supporting her professional research and innovation.

Professional Experience

Currently serving as a researcher at the School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Technology, Dr. Yi Lu plays a crucial role in advancing the institution’s research capabilities in metallic materials. Her professional work is centered around aluminum alloys, exploring key issues related to their mechanical properties, corrosion behavior, and hydrogen embrittlement mechanisms. Dr. Lu has been a vital team member in a national key research and development project, where she contributed to the experimental design, materials testing, and analysis of microstructural transformations. This project offered her a platform to apply her academic knowledge to real-world problems, bridging the gap between theory and industrial application. She has also authored several SCI-indexed journal articles, establishing her as a published researcher with international reach. Her professional collaborations extend beyond China, as evidenced by her research partnership with the University of Auckland. These experiences have strengthened her ability to work in cross-cultural, interdisciplinary teams and have enriched her understanding of global research dynamics. While Dr. Lu has not yet engaged in consultancy or industry-specific projects, her academic and project-based experience positions her well for future involvement in industrial research, particularly in sectors where material durability and performance are critical.

Research Interest

Dr. Yi Lu’s research interests lie at the intersection of materials science and engineering, with a strong focus on the behavior and performance of aluminum alloys. Her primary areas of investigation include the mechanical properties of aluminum alloys and how these are influenced by microstructural features. She is particularly intrigued by the factors that govern the corrosion resistance of these materials, an issue of critical importance in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and construction. Dr. Lu also explores various refining techniques to enhance the purity and structural uniformity of aluminum alloys. One of the more specialized aspects of her work is the study of hydrogen embrittlement—an often overlooked but significant phenomenon that compromises the integrity of metals. Through her research, she seeks to understand the mechanisms behind hydrogen-induced failures and propose mitigation strategies. These interconnected areas form a cohesive framework that allows Dr. Lu to address both fundamental questions and practical challenges in materials performance. Her interests are not only driven by academic curiosity but also by the broader societal need for more resilient, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant materials. By focusing her research on these critical topics, she aims to contribute to the development of next-generation metallic materials with enhanced longevity and reliability.

Research Skills

Dr. Yi Lu possesses a robust set of research skills that enable her to tackle complex problems in materials science with precision and innovation. She is proficient in a wide range of experimental techniques used to analyze the mechanical and corrosion behavior of metals, particularly aluminum alloys. Her expertise includes mechanical testing methods such as tensile, hardness, and fatigue analysis, which she uses to assess the structural integrity of alloys. In addition, she is skilled in metallographic examination and advanced microscopy, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), allowing her to investigate microstructural features at fine resolutions. Dr. Lu is also experienced in electrochemical testing methods, which are essential for understanding corrosion kinetics and resistance. Her analytical skills extend to data interpretation and modeling, ensuring that experimental findings are rigorously evaluated and contextually grounded. Furthermore, she demonstrates competence in scientific writing and has successfully published in high-impact SCI journals. Her collaborative research experience with the University of Auckland highlights her ability to contribute to international projects and interdisciplinary teams. Whether conducting experiments, interpreting results, or drafting manuscripts, Dr. Lu consistently applies scientific rigor and attention to detail, making her a capable and well-rounded researcher in her field.

Awards and Honors

Although Dr. Yi Lu is in the early stages of her academic and research career, she has already achieved notable recognition for her contributions to materials science. Her most significant honor to date is her participation in a national key research and development project, a competitive and prestigious initiative that selects promising researchers to contribute to groundbreaking scientific work. In this project, Dr. Lu’s role was instrumental in generating valuable findings related to aluminum alloy performance. She has published four SCI-indexed papers and one EI paper, with two articles appearing in high-impact SCI1 journals—an accomplishment that reflects both the quality and relevance of her research. Her work has received six citations, an encouraging indicator of her growing impact within the academic community. Dr. Lu has also been nominated for the Best Researcher Award, a testament to her dedication and early academic promise. These accolades, while still accumulating, signify her upward trajectory in the field. As she continues to publish, collaborate, and contribute to material science research, Dr. Lu is poised to garner more awards and recognition. Her commitment to excellence and innovation lays the groundwork for future honors at both national and international levels.

Conclusion

Dr. Yi Lu exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated and forward-thinking researcher in the field of materials science and engineering. Her academic journey and professional work are unified by a clear focus on improving the performance and durability of aluminum alloys, which are critical to a wide range of industrial applications. Through rigorous experimentation, international collaboration, and scholarly publication, she has demonstrated the ability to contribute meaningful insights to her discipline. Her areas of expertise—including mechanical behavior, corrosion mechanisms, refining methods, and hydrogen embrittlement—address some of the most pressing challenges in metallic materials. Despite being at an early stage in her career, Dr. Lu’s accomplishments—such as participation in a national research initiative and publications in high-tier journals—highlight her potential for future leadership in research and innovation. She continues to refine her experimental techniques, expand her scientific understanding, and seek impactful collaborations. Looking ahead, Dr. Lu aims to further integrate her theoretical knowledge with practical applications, ultimately contributing to the design and development of materials that are stronger, lighter, and more resistant to environmental stress. Her dedication to scientific progress and her methodical approach to research ensure that she will remain a valuable asset to her institution and the global materials science community.

 Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: High thermal stability of Si-containing Al-Zn-Mg-Cu crossover alloy caused by metastable GPB-II phase
    Authors: Yi Lu, Shengping Wen, Wu Wei, Xiaolan Wu, Kunyuan Gao, Hui Huang, Zuoren Nie
    Year: 2025

  2. Title: The enhanced aging hardening behavior in Si-containing Al-5Zn-1Mg-1Cu alloys
    Authors: Yi Lu, Shengping Wen, Zuoren Nie
    Year: 2024

  3. Title: The phase transformation and enhancing mechanical properties in high Zn/Mg ratio Al–Zn–Mg–Cu(-Si) alloys
    Authors: Yi Lu, Shengping Wen, Kunyuan Gao, Xiangyuan Xiong, Wu Wei, Xiaolan Wu, Hui Huang, Zuoren Nie
    Year: 2024

  4. Title: TeleAware Robot: Designing Awareness-augmented Telepresence Robot for Remote Collaborative Locomotion
    Authors: Ruyi Li, Yaxin Zhu, Min Liu, Yihang Zeng, Shanning Zhuang, Jiayi Fu, Yi Lu, Guyue Zhou, Can Liu, Jiangtao Gong
    Year: 2024