Emerging Scientist season III (ES 2024), organized by Asian Council of Science Editors (ACSE) convened as a beacon of opportunity and knowledge exchange with a relentless aim to invigorate and empower the next generation of researchers. Hosted by within the Main Conference Hall of the esteemed Asian Digital Library, on 16th and 17th February 2024, in Faisalabad, Pakistan, this event heralded a pivotal moment for budding scholars to connect with seasoned achievers, present groundbreaking research, and refine their presentation skills. Led by Ms. Maryam Sayab; the Conference Moderator of ES 2024 and Director of Communications at Asian Council of Science Editors, embarked on a journey to transcend academic boundaries and cultivate a culture of innovation and collaboration among aspiring scientists.
Enthusiastically embraced by over 150 dynamic participants hailing from every corner of Pakistan, including vibrant cities like Lahore, Islamabad, Faisalabad, Karachi, Bahawalpur, Peshawar, Rawalakot, Chakdara, and Swat among others, came together in this event to showcase the nation's rich tapestry of emerging scientific talent. Spearheaded by the ACSE, this groundbreaking initiative soared to success, fueled by the visionary support of esteemed partners such as the Asian Digital Library, ANSInet, The ACE College, the Asian Science Citation Index, and the Academy of Excellence in Biosciences to name a few.
In line with the visionary goals set forth by the ACSE ES2024 cultivated a dynamic platform to foster dialogue among esteemed academic researchers, active scientists, and emerging talents. This pivotal conference served as a beacon for exchanging insights and exploring the latest advancements in research across Pakistan's diverse landscapes. It provided a vital forum to address the challenges confronting budding researchers as they embark on their scholarly journeys. This conference not only showcased the growing research prowess of Pakistan's emerging talents but, also served as a nexus for collaboration and innovation, shaping the future of scientific inquiry in the region.
ES 2024 convened to inspire and empower early career researchers, providing a platform for academic exchange and skill enhancement. Hosted in the Main Conference Hall of the Asian Digital Library, the event commenced with a welcome address by Prof. Dr. Gazi Mahabubul Alam, the Conference Co-Chair, and Professor of Education Policy and Economics, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Malaysia setting the tone for an enriching experience.
Prof. Dr. Gazi Mahabubul Alam delivered a keynote speech on "Bridging Boundaries: The Role of Young Scientists in Shaping the Future of Research," emphasizing the pivotal role of young researchers in driving scientific progress. This was followed by Director NIP, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad Prof. Dr. Rubina Hanif's insightful presentation on "Balancing Acts: The Dual Impact of the Digital Era on Early Career Researchers and Strategies for Success," offering valuable strategies for navigating the challenges of the digital age.
Moderated by Maj Gen [Retd] Prof. Muhammad Aslam and Prof. Dr. Sobia Tabassum, the morning session in Room 1 featured a series of presentations in the Medical & Health Sciences track, showcasing cutting-edge research findings by early career researchers from various academic institutions across Pakistan. Topics ranged from mechanistic insights into novel antiepileptic therapeutic targets to the utilization of magnetic nanoparticles for magnetic hyperthermia. The presentations were interspersed with a poster competition, providing participants with opportunities for networking and collaboration. Following a networking break, Session II commenced with moderators Dr. Shahzad Irfan and Dr. Najia Rahim leading discussions on further advancements in Medical & Health Sciences. Presentations delved into diverse topics such as green-synthesized nanoparticles for drug delivery systems, patient-centered self-management interventions, the toxic effects of antibiotics on liver enzymes, the Potential of Moringa for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and DNA Mapping Management in blood Group.
Room 2 was moderated by Prof. Dr. Farkhanda Manzoor where the Agricultural & Biological Sciences presentation session of the conference showcased a diverse array of innovative research endeavors, each offering valuable insights into the intricate workings of the natural world and its impact on agricultural practices. From toxicological studies to molecular assessments, the presentations captivated attendees with their depth and relevance.
The session commenced with presentations on topics such as the toxicological effects of short-term exposure to Alpha-Cypermethrin on adult albino mice and NMR-based metabolic fingerprinting of grapevine cultivars. Following this, researchers explored diverse subjects including phytocompound-based drug discovery, the development of nutraceuticals for better health, and the impact of biochar on soil fertility in rangelands. The session concluded with an exploration of various aspects of agricultural and biological sciences, fostering opportunities for further discussions and collaborations in these vital fields of research.
Whereas, in Room 3, the morning session of the event, moderated by Prof. Dr. Rubina Hanif and Mr. Ghias Akram, provided a platform for insightful discussions and presentations in the field of Social Sciences and Humanities. The session commenced with a thought-provoking presentation on unmasking predatory publishing and investigating journals lacking academic standards. Following this, researchers delved into topics such as parental bonding and drug use attitudes in university students, endangered language preservation through social media analysis, and psychosocial determinants of adolescent emotional and behavioral problems in boarding schools. The presentations covered a wide range of subjects including nuclear proliferation discourse, internet gaming addiction, perceived parenting styles, cyber ostracism, and the role of school-based counseling facilities in promoting students' mental health.
The session concluded with presentations exploring themes such as perceived parental conflict, healthcare waste management policies, and the moderating contribution of mothers' educational level to resilience and stress among school children. These presentations provided valuable insights and sparked meaningful discussions, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing complex societal challenges.
Moderated by Prof. Dr. Aamer Saeed and Dr. Izza Anwer, in Room 4, session I commenced with a series of insightful presentations showcasing cutting-edge research in the field of Physical Sciences & Engineering. Researchers from various prestigious academic institutions across Pakistan presented their findings, covering a diverse range of topics and highlighting innovative approaches to address pressing challenges. The session began with a presentation on the design, synthesis, and biological appraisal of vital drug-linked heterocyclic scaffolds. Subsequent presentations explored themes such as the synthesis and characterization of novel nanocomposites, environmentally friendly smart film technology, challenges in designing multi-target drugs, and the development of blockchain-based crop traceability systems. Researchers also discussed topics including machine learning computational identification of proteins, achieving ultra-low latency in video telemetry systems, and the synthesis of buckyball nanoparticles for drug delivery.
The morning session concluded with presentations on emerging pollutants in the environment, gravitational decoupled anisotropic strange stars, reengineered turbine blades, and the adsorption of antibiotics from pharmaceutical wastewater. Whereas, in Session II the researchers explored electric vehicles, synthesis of magnetic nanocomposite for extraction of tetracyclines, ultrasound images for measurement of length and gestational age, sulfur-based polymers from coal, and treatment for tannery wastewater. These presentations provided valuable insights into the latest advancements in Physical Sciences & Engineering, fostering dialogue and collaboration among researchers to address complex scientific and engineering challenges.
In the lobby area, the poster competition featured diverse research presentations across multiple tracks, each evaluated by distinguished committee members. The poster competition provided a platform for researchers to share their findings, engage in scholarly discussions, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields:
In the Agricultural & Biological Sciences category, the poster evaluation committee included: Prof. Dr. Farkhanda Manzoor and Dr. Abdul Nabi Jatt, the posters in this category showcased innovative research endeavors. Topics ranged from the isolation and molecular identification of halotolerant bacteria to the honey-mediated synthesis of nanoparticles with potent antibacterial properties. Participants presented findings on topics such as agricultural mechanization, seed treatment effects on wheat responses, and the restoration of antioxidant potential in mice. Each presentation demonstrated significant contributions to the agricultural and biological sciences field.
For the Medical & Health Sciences category, the poster evaluation committee included: Prof. Dr. Muhammad Aslam, Dr. Najia Rahim, and Dr. Maqsood Ur Rehman. The posters in this category explored precision medicine, diabetic retinopathy staging, and chronic disease diagnosis systems. Researchers investigated antibiotic resistance, bioactive compound synergies, and targeted drug delivery. These presentations showcased advancements in medical technology, addressing critical healthcare challenges.
In the Physical Sciences & Engineering category, the poster evaluation committee included: Prof. Dr. Aamer Saeed and Dr. Izza Anwer. Posters in Physical Sciences & Engineering encompassed diverse topics: anti-COVID-19 drug design, boundary layer control, and groundwater extraction impacts. The research included bias correction in hydrology, integrating BIM with IoT for sustainability, and environmental role simulation. These presentations emphasized interdisciplinary solutions to complex engineering and environmental challenges.
In the Social Sciences and Humanities category, the poster evaluation committee included: Dr. Rubina Waseem and Dr. Shahid Minhas. Here, posters explored themes such as entrepreneurial success, social stigmatization, organizational virtuousness, and postpartum depression among first-time mothers. Researchers also delved into the psychological impact of climate change, immigrant mental health, and online feminist attitudes. These presentations offered valuable insights into societal dynamics, mental health issues, and emerging trends in social behavior.
As the conference drew to a close, a moment of celebration unfolded with the much-anticipated award ceremony presented by Mr. Muhammad Sarwar, Secretary & Treasurer of Asian Council of Science Editors. With a buzz of excitement in the air, the spotlight shone on the remarkable achievements of participants in the Poster Presentation Category. Cheers erupted as Hafiz Muhammad Tahir from the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council won the Agricultural & Biological Sciences category for his groundbreaking presentation on "Advancing Agricultural Mechanization and Arable Land Management for Climate Resilient and Sustainable Agro-Food System." His innovative approach captivated hearts and minds, earning him not just applause, but also a well-deserved incentive of 10,000 PKR. Dr. Sobia Razzaq from the University of Management and Technology followed suit, claiming the award in the Medical & Health Sciences category with her insightful exploration into the world of "A Multifunctional Polymeric Micelle for Targeted Delivery of Paclitaxel by the Inhibition of the P-Glycoprotein Transporters" Her dedication and expertise were duly recognized with an incentive of 10,000 PKR. Next Arooj Rasheed from Quaid-i-Azam University, was awarded for her research on "Unpacking First-Time Mothers' Postpartum Depression: Role of Negative Affectivity and Agency Dynamics," securing an award in the category of Social Sciences & Humanities. Her valuable contribution to the field earned her an incentive of 10,000 PKR, along with admiration from peers and mentors alike. The award for the best poster presentation in the Physical Sciences & Engineering category went to Mughal Sharif of Bahria University Karachi for his presentation on “Groundwater Extraction Impacts on Quality and Quantity and Seawater Intrusion in Karachi Pakistan”. It was evident that these exemplary individuals had left an indelible mark on the conference, inspiring future generations of researchers to push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation.
The event concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony and group photo session, acknowledging the contributions of participants and speakers. Prof. Dr. Rubina Hanif delivered closing remarks, highlighting the significance of collaborative efforts in advancing scientific research. Attendees then had the opportunity to network over tea in the lobby area, fostering connections and potential collaborations beyond the confines of the conference hall.
