Lahore, Dr. Awais Altaf, an assistant professor at the Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IMBB) at The University of Lahore (UOL), has been recognized for his significant contributions to molecular biochemistry with his recent appointment as a global assessor by the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (RSTMH) in the UK.

According to The University of Lahore, Dr. Altaf’s selection by the RSTMH reflects his expertise and distinguished work in the field. Over a two-year term, he will evaluate applications for research grants, travel scholarships, abstracts for meetings, and other activities within his realm of expertise.

Dr. Altaf, who joined UOL in 2020, has a decorated academic and research background, including a PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Agriculture Faisalabad, extensive research at the University of North Carolina, USA, and a range of specialized courses from Universitas Padjadjaran, Indonesia. Furthermore, his upcoming participation in a training course funded by the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) attests to his commitment to continuous learning and leadership in the field.

His accolades include an Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) fellowship awarded by COMSTECH for research and advanced training in Virology & Vaccine Technology in Indonesia, and the Young Scientist Fellowship from the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (IUBMB) in South Korea.

Dr. Altaf’s research has been pivotal in disease diagnosis and progression, especially in cancer detection and anticancer therapy. His work extends to infectious diseases and dengue vaccine development. Notably, he contributed to the creation of the CleoCap™ Real-time PCR-based 3rd Generation Detection Kit for COVID-19, which has made significant advancements in rapid and accurate virus testing.

With over 20 scientific papers published in top-tier journals such as The Lancet and Nature Publishing Group (NPG), Dr. Altaf’s research has had a considerable impact on the diagnostic and therapeutic understanding of various diseases. Beyond his research, he actively engages in organizing educational activities in biochemistry and molecular biology for the academic development of students.

Speaking with the Press and Publications Cell at UOL, Dr. Altaf expressed pride in UOL’s supportive environment that fosters opportunities for students and researchers to excel internationally, a sentiment that echoes the university’s dedication to academic excellence.