Altynay Nurmakova | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Altynay Nurmakova | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Ms Altynay Nurmakova Science center of obstetrics, gynecology and perinatology Kazakhstan

Nurmakova Altynay Daurenkyzy, born on April 22, 2001, in Almaty, Kazakhstan, is an emerging biomedical researcher with a background in genetics and a keen interest in reproductive health. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Biomedicine at the Kazakh National Medical University named after S.D. Asfendiyarov (2023–2025). Altynay is dedicated to scientific advancement and works as a specialist at the Scientific Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology. She has also contributed as a member of the external expert commission for NAAR in 2025. Fluent in Russian and proficient in English, she actively participates in scientific conferences, seminars, and certified training programs. Her research is primarily focused on molecular diagnostics and innovative biomarkers in hypertensive conditions during pregnancy. Altynay is a quick learner, highly responsible, and committed to continuous professional development. Her proactive approach and analytical mindset make her a promising figure in biomedical science.

Publication Profile

orcid

🎓 Education

Altynay Nurmakova holds a strong academic background in life sciences, starting with a Bachelor’s degree in Genetics (6B05105) from the Kazakh National University named after Al-Farabi (2019–2023), where she graduated with a GPA of 3.79 out of 4.00. She is currently enrolled in the Master’s program in Biomedicine (7M10114) at the Kazakh National Medical University named after S.D. Asfendiyarov, with a GPA of 3.89 out of 4.00 (2023–2025). Her academic journey reflects a consistent pursuit of excellence and a strong foundation in biomedical concepts, laboratory techniques, and genetic research. She has also expanded her knowledge through certified online courses such as “ICH Good Clinical Practice E6” by The Global Health Network and “Fundamentals of Immunology” by Coursera. Altynay’s educational path demonstrates her commitment to developing a career rooted in innovation and evidence-based clinical science, particularly in the fields of reproductive health and molecular diagnostics.

💼 Experience

Altynay began her professional journey in 2023 as a Specialist in the Department of Science and Strategic Development at the Scientific Center of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Perinatology JSC in Almaty. In this role, she contributes to key national-level projects focused on improving maternal health through molecular research. Her role involves hands-on work with advanced techniques like flow cytometry, RNA isolation, and biomarker screening. In 2025, she was recognized for her expertise by being appointed as a member of the external expert commission of the Independent Agency for Accreditation and Rating (NAAR). Through these roles, Altynay has developed strong research and analytical skills and gained valuable experience in clinical research and strategic development. Her contributions have strengthened scientific understanding and policy in Kazakhstan’s maternal health services. She is also actively involved in manuscript preparation and dissemination of scientific results through conferences and publications.

🏆 Honors and Awards

While formal awards are not listed, Altynay Nurmakova’s honors are evident through her academic excellence and trusted roles in Kazakhstan’s scientific and educational communities. Her high GPAs—3.79 in her Bachelor’s and 3.89 in her Master’s program—reflect academic distinction. Being selected as a Member of the external expert commission of the Independent Agency for Accreditation and Rating (NAAR) in 2025 is a significant honor, recognizing her credibility and expertise. Furthermore, her participation in state-funded and program-targeted scientific research projects highlights the recognition of her capabilities at a national level. Altynay’s consistent involvement in scientific seminars and conferences, including international platforms, shows her respected position among emerging biomedical researchers. Her acceptance into specialized training courses such as those provided by Coursera and The Global Health Network further illustrates her merit and proactive commitment to scientific excellence and continuous learning in the field of biomedicine and genetics.

🔬 Research Focus

Altynay’s research focus lies at the intersection of genetics, molecular biology, and reproductive health. She is actively involved in two national research projects:

  1. AR19678324 (2023–2025): Study of innovative molecular markers of hypertensive conditions in pregnancy—a state-funded project aimed at early detection and prevention of complications during pregnancy.

  2. BR27308739 (2025–2026): Innovative approaches to improve the reproductive health of the female population of Kazakhstan—a program-targeted project focused on practical interventions and diagnostic advances.

Her technical proficiency includes flow cytometry, RNA isolation, and biomarker discovery. She is passionate about enhancing women’s healthcare through translational research, focusing on identifying molecular pathways that contribute to maternal morbidity. She has contributed to the preparation of publications and actively engages in academic dissemination. Her research embodies a commitment to applying scientific knowledge for societal benefit, particularly in improving outcomes in obstetrics and gynecology.

📚 Publications

📘 Abstract: “Study of innovative molecular markers of hypertensive conditions in pregnancy”
📘 Abstract: “Innovative approaches to improve the reproductive health of the female population of the Republic of Kazakhstan”
📘 Article (in preparation): “Role of cytokine profiles in preeclampsia pathogenesis among pregnant women”
📘 Article (in preparation): “Use of flow cytometry in identifying molecular markers for gestational hypertension”

Phyu Aung | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Phyu Aung | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Phyu Aung, UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, United States

Prof. Dr. Phyu Aung is a distinguished Professor in the Department of Pathology (Dermatopathology Section) at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center (UT-MDACC). She earned her Medical Degree from the Institute of Medicine, Rangoon, and a Ph.D. in Molecular Pathology from Hiroshima University, Japan. Dr. Aung completed her residency at the National Cancer Institute/NIH and a fellowship in Dermatopathology at Boston Medical Center. With over 200 peer-reviewed publications, ten book chapters, and eight research grants, she is a leading expert in cancer biology, melanocytic neoplasms, and Merkel cell carcinoma. An executive member of multiple pathology societies and a frequent invited speaker, Dr. Aung also serves as the Director of the Oncologic Surgical Pathology Fellowship Program, mentoring over 100 national and international trainees.

Education:

Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)

Institution: Institute of Medicine 1, Yangon, Myanmar

Duration: 1995 – 2002

Degree: MBBS (MD)

Ph.D. in Molecular Pathology

Institution: Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Hiroshima University, Japan

Duration: 2003 – 2006

Degree: Ph.D. (Molecular Pathology)

Post-Doctoral Fellowship

Institution: Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA

Duration: 2006 – 2009

Field: Research in Molecular Pathology

Pathology Residency

Institution: National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD, USA

Duration: 2009 – 2012

Specialization: Anatomic Pathology / Laboratory of Pathology

Dermatopathology Fellowship

Institution: Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA

Duration: 2012 – 2014

Specialization: Dermatopathology

Professional Profiles:

ORCID Profile

Google Scholar

Professional Experience:

Professor, Pathology (Sep 2024–Present)

Serving as a senior faculty member at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, contributing to research, diagnostics, and medical education in pathology.

Director, Surgical Pathology Fellowship Program (Jul 2019–Present)

Leading the Surgical Pathology Fellowship Program, overseeing training, curriculum development, and mentorship.

Associate Professor, Pathology (Sep 2019–Aug 2024)

Conducted research in pathology, particularly focusing on cancer diagnostics and histopathology.

Assistant Professor, Pathology (Jul 2014–Aug 2019)

Contributed to pathology education, clinical diagnostics, and research at MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Associate Director, Surgical Pathology Fellowship Program (Jul 2018–Jun 2019)

Assisted in managing the Surgical Pathology Fellowship Program, ensuring high-quality training for future pathologists.

Top Notable Publications:

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Diagnosing Blastic Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cell Neoplasm (BPDCN): Practical Recommendations and Insights from Countries of the Gulf Cooperation

Authors: N Bakshi, A Al Hejazi, H Al-Maghraby, A Al Mugairi, AS Alotaibi, et al.

Journal: Cancers 17 (2), 221, 2025

Genomic and Transcriptomic Profiling of Digital Papillary Adenocarcinomas Reveals Alterations in Matrix Remodeling and Metabolic Genes

Authors: EC Bayraktar, PP Aung, P Gill, G Shen, V Vasudevaraja, Z Lai, et al.

Journal: Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, 2025

Syringocystadenoma Papilliferum-Like Features in Poroma: An Unusual Morphologic Pattern of Poroma or True Synchronous Occurrence of 2 Distinct Neoplasms?

Authors: M Alsawas, FF Muhaj, PP Aung, P Nagarajan, WC Cho

Journal: The American Journal of Dermatopathology 46 (12), 871-874, 2024

Dual PD-L1/SOX10 Immunohistochemistry Combined With Digital Imaging Enhances Stratification Accuracy of Patients With Metastatic Melanoma

Authors: J Pineda-Reyes, SK Arudra, PP Aung, P Nagarajan, JL Curry, M Tetzlaff, et al.

Journal: The American Journal of Surgical Pathology 48 (12), 1551-1556, 2024

Approach to Mycosis Fungoides in Children: Consensus-Based Recommendations

Authors: A Zvulunov, H Neale, J Stern, P Santaguida, AB Stein, M Koh, et al.

Journal: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 91 (6), 1078-1085, 2024

Recommended Guidelines for Screening for Underlying Malignancy in Extramammary Paget’s Disease Based on Anatomic Subtype

Authors: N Kibbi, JL Owen, B Worley, M Alam, JX Wang, V Harikumar, et al.

Journal: Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2024

MTAP and p16 IHC as Markers for CDKN2A/B Loss in Meningiomas

Authors: HI Ozkizilkaya, A Vinocha, A Dono, OB Ogunbona, GA Toruner, PP Aung, et al.

Journal: Cancers 16 (19), 3299, 2024

Utility of Next-Generation Sequencing in the Diagnosis of Metastatic Melanoma: A Case Report

Authors: S Turcios Escobar, R Yang, KC Nelson, JE Gershenwald, H Tawbi, et al.

Journal: Journal of Cutaneous Pathology 51 (9), 644-648, 2024

The Secret Life of Junior Pathologists: Challenges and Future Directions

Authors: DH Kwon, M Taherian, DR Milton, P Iaeger, K Chin, PP Aung

Journal: Archives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine 148 (7), 836-845, 2024

Digital Papillary Adenocarcinoma: The Detection of Low-Risk Human Papillomaviruses and the BRAF p.V600E Mutation in a Subset of Cases

Authors: F Chen, P Nagarajan, PP Aung

Journal: Dermatopathology 11 (3), 177-183, 2024

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Phyu Aung stands out as a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. Her significant contributions to cancer research, her leadership in advancing clinical applications, and her global impact make her a deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition. Her work continues to shape the future of oncology, improving patient outcomes and influencing cancer research worldwide. Therefore, Prof. Dr. Phyu Aung’s research excellence and broad-reaching impact make her an outstanding nominee for this award.