Lipismita Samal, Veterinary Science, Best Innovator Award

Dr. Lipismita Samal: Assistant Professor, Department of Poultry Science, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India

Dr. Lipismita Samal is a dedicated academician and researcher currently working as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Poultry Science at the College of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar. With over 13 years of professional experience in veterinary and animal sciences, she has built a strong reputation in the fields of animal nutrition, indigenous poultry conservation, and rural poultry enterprise development. Her work bridges both research and field implementation, focusing on sustainable livestock and poultry-based livelihood interventions. A keen advocate for tribal empowerment and biodiversity conservation, Dr. Samal integrates community-based models and policy-level insights into her projects. Her multidisciplinary expertise spans nutritional biotechnology, feed additive innovation, molecular diagnostics, and poultry genetics, earning her numerous accolades and a robust national and international academic footprint.

Online Profiles

ORCID Profile

Education

Dr. Samal’s academic journey is rooted in excellence, beginning with her B.V.Sc. & A.H. degree from OUAT, Bhubaneswar, where she graduated with honors (80.4%). She went on to earn her M.V.Sc. and Ph.D. in Animal Nutrition from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, one of the country’s premier research institutions, securing the top rank and achieving distinction with an impressive 85.9% in her postgraduate studies. Her doctoral research focused on rumen microbial manipulation for methane mitigation using plant bioactives—an area of significant importance in climate-resilient livestock farming. In addition to her veterinary qualifications, she also holds a Diploma in Computer Applications, highlighting her digital adaptability and data analysis skills. Her solid academic background has laid the foundation for her impactful contributions in both teaching and research.

Research Focus

Dr. Samal’s research encompasses a wide array of themes central to sustainable animal production. Her core interests lie in animal nutrition—particularly in the exploration of feed additives like phytochemicals, probiotics, and prebiotics for enhancing animal health and productivity. She is deeply involved in the conservation and improvement of indigenous poultry breeds, focusing on genetic characterization, crossbreeding strategies, and nutrition optimization to suit rural and tribal environments. Her recent work has integrated climate-smart agriculture concepts by targeting methane mitigation through rumen manipulation using plant secondary metabolites. Furthermore, she has contributed to diagnostic research on avian respiratory viruses, including NDV and ILT, in collaboration with international partners. Her projects emphasize a multidisciplinary and participatory approach, integrating farmers, stakeholders, and policymakers in every stage of innovation.

Experience

Over the past 13 years, Dr. Samal has cultivated a balanced portfolio of academic, research, and extension activities. After an initial stint as a Junior Veterinary Officer under the Government of Odisha, she transitioned to OUAT, where she now serves as Assistant Professor in Poultry Science. She has mentored over 15 M.V.Sc. students and co-guided Ph.D. scholars across diverse domains, including animal nutrition, backyard poultry development, and molecular virology. Her teaching and training initiatives span rural poultry entrepreneurship, functional feed formulation, and breed conservation strategies, impacting thousands of students and farmers. Dr. Samal has played pivotal roles in national and international projects funded by DBT, ICAR, DTRA-USA, and OMBADC, among others. She also serves as a Master Trainer under DAY-NRLM and the Skill India Mission, enhancing capacities in tribal districts of Odisha and beyond.

Research Timeline & Activities

Dr. Samal’s research timeline reflects a progressive deepening of her thematic expertise and interdisciplinary collaborations. During her postgraduate and doctoral work at IVRI, she investigated the role of dietary phytochemicals in rumen ecology and greenhouse gas mitigation. Upon joining OUAT, she led and contributed to DBT-funded programs on backyard poultry development and disease surveillance, targeting respiratory pathogens in poultry through molecular diagnostics. Her involvement in the National Surveillance Program for Avian Influenza and DTRA-USA-sponsored projects added global dimensions to her work. From 2012 to the present, she has designed and implemented community poultry programs across Odisha’s tribal belts, contributing to breed registration (Hansli) and crossbred strain development (Hansli × CSML, CSFL, Kaveri). Her research activities have also resulted in the formulation of user-friendly poultry ration calculators, farmer handbooks, and mobile training modules, facilitating tech-driven extension.

Awards & Honors

Dr. Samal has been the recipient of more than 30 prestigious awards recognizing her scholarly excellence, research innovation, and societal impact. Notable honors include the Dr. S.K. Talpatra Gold Medal from IVRI for academic distinction, the Best Woman Scientist Award of OUAT in both 2021 and 2024, and the nationally reputed Vet Icon Award 2024. She is a Fellow of the Young Academy of India and has received the Young Scientist Award from several professional societies. Her contributions have also been acknowledged by ICAR, NABARD, and national poultry bodies for her work in backyard poultry innovation. In addition, she has received multiple best paper, oral presentation, and poster awards at both national and international conferences. These accolades reflect her dual commitment to academic rigor and ground-level impact in the livestock sector.

Top Noted Publication

Among her 47 peer-reviewed research articles, one of her most cited and influential publications is her study on the “Prebiotic potential of Jerusalem artichoke and its influence on gut microflora and performance in laboratory animals”, published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture. This paper has garnered international recognition for its novel insights into functional feed additives. Other prominent works include her research on rumen microbial manipulation for methane mitigation, molecular detection of NDV in tribal poultry, and genetic studies of the Hansli breed. She has also authored 51 popular/review articles, 20 book chapters, and has been a key contributor to extension bulletins, training manuals, and farmer-oriented literature. Her research contributions extend globally, with participation in scientific conferences and workshops held in Bangkok and Paris, highlighting the international relevance of her work.

  • Design, Development and Performance Evaluation of a Portable Battery-Operated Litter Agitator Installed with AI-Controlled Obstacle-Avoidance Robot with Sensors
    Agricultural Research, September 2025
    DOI: 10.1007/s40003-024-00776-w
    Contributors: Rohit B. Gaddamwar, Ajaya K. Dash, Debaraj Behera, Sangram K. Swain, Lipismita Samal, Susant K. Dash
    → Focus: AI-integrated robotics in poultry litter management for improved bird welfare and automation.

  • Influence of Histology and Histomorphometry of Thigh Muscles on Thermal Stress-Related Physiological and Plasma Hormonal Responses in Three Broiler Strains
    Agricultural Research, September 2025
    DOI: 10.1007/s40003-024-00780-0
    Contributors: Haresh K. Popalghat, Nrusingha C. Behura, Lipismita Samal, Niranjan Sahoo, Umakanta Mishra, Susanta K. Dash, Abhijeet Champati, Soubhagya Muduli
    → Focus: Correlation of muscle structure with thermal stress adaptation in broiler chickens.

  • Feed and Nutrient Utilization Efficiency and Juvenile Traits of Vezaguda Chicken of Odisha in Floor Rearing System
    The Indian Journal of Animal Sciences, December 2022
    DOI: 10.56093/ijans.v92i12.102484
    Contributors: A.L. Patra, L. Samal, N.C. Behura, N. Sahoo, D.P. Das, A. Champati, S. Muduli, H.K. Popalghat
    → Focus: Performance metrics of indigenous Vezaguda chickens under semi-intensive systems.

  • Growth Performance, Feed Utilization Efficiency and Blood Biochemical Parameters of Nusuri Chicken Population of Odisha in Floor Rearing System
    The Indian Journal of Animal Sciences, August 2022
    DOI: 10.56093/ijans.v92i8.102495
    Contributors: N.B. Mohanta, L. Samal, N.C. Behura, P.K. Pati, A. Maity, J. Bagh
    → Focus: Evaluation of feed efficiency and blood profiles of the lesser-known Nusuri chicken breed.

Strengths for the Best Innovator Award

  1. Integration of Technology in Rural Livestock Systems
    Dr. Samal has successfully bridged traditional livestock practices with modern technological innovations. Her co-authored work on the AI-enabled, battery-operated litter agitator robot exemplifies how smart automation can enhance poultry welfare, reduce labor, and boost biosecurity in resource-limited settings. This demonstrates her ability to localize high-tech interventions for scalable field application.

  2. Pioneering Work in Indigenous Poultry Breed Conservation
    She has led groundbreaking efforts in conserving and improving Odisha’s native poultry breeds like Hansli and Nusuri. Through genetic characterization, performance evaluation, and crossbreeding strategies (e.g., Hansli × CSML), her work supports biodiversity preservation while strengthening food and livelihood security among tribal communities.

  3. Innovation in Climate-Resilient Animal Nutrition
    Dr. Samal’s research on rumen microbial manipulation using plant secondary metabolites, prebiotics like Jerusalem artichoke, and functional feed additives highlights her innovative approach to mitigating methane emissions and improving gut health. These contributions align closely with global sustainability goals and the urgent need for climate-smart livestock practices.

  4. Farmer-Centric Tool Development and Extension Innovation
    Going beyond laboratory research, she has developed user-friendly poultry ration calculators, mobile training modules, and practical farmer manuals. These tools empower rural producers with accessible, science-based decision-making support—exemplifying her commitment to innovation with direct societal impact.

  5. Multidisciplinary and Policy-Linked Project Leadership
    Dr. Samal has shown leadership in high-impact projects funded by DBT, ICAR, NABARD, and international agencies like DTRA-USA. Her participatory research model integrates policy-level insights, gender empowerment, and tribal development goals—making her a standout example of how innovation can drive inclusive growth in the livestock sector.

Tridib Rajkhowa, Veterinary Science, Best Innovator Award

Prof. Tridib Rajkhowa: Professor at College of veterinary sciences and animal husbandry, CAU(I), Selesih, Aizawl, Mizoram-796015, India

Dr. Tridib Kumar Rajkhowa is a distinguished Professor and Head of the Department of Veterinary Pathology at the College of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, Central Agricultural University (CAU), Aizawl, Mizoram, India. With more than two decades of experience in veterinary pathology, he has made substantial contributions to the understanding of animal viral diseases, molecular diagnostics, and epidemiology. He is recognized for his in-depth research into viral disease pathogenesis, innovative diagnostic technologies, and the development of vaccines for both common and emerging diseases in livestock and wildlife populations. Dr. Rajkhowa’s dedication to the field is reflected in his numerous research collaborations, publications, and his role in mentoring young scientists. His work significantly impacts veterinary public health, particularly in the northeastern region of India.

Online Profiles

ORCID Profile

Dr. Rajkhowa maintains an active digital presence across various academic platforms. His research is available on ResearchGate, where he regularly updates his latest publications and engages in discussions with other researchers. His Google Scholar profile lists a wide range of articles and citations that underscore the influence of his work in veterinary pathology. On LinkedIn, Dr. Rajkhowa connects with fellow professionals in the academic, research, and veterinary fields, offering insights into his ongoing projects and career milestones. These profiles provide a platform for sharing knowledge, collaborating on interdisciplinary research, and building professional networks that benefit both local and international veterinary communities.

Education

Dr. Rajkhowa’s educational journey has been marked by excellence in veterinary sciences. He earned his B.V.Sc. & A.H. (Bachelor of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry) from Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya in 1991. Driven by his passion for veterinary pathology, he pursued his M.V.Sc. (Master of Veterinary Science) with a specialization in Veterinary Pathology at the same institution, completing it in 1993. His academic pursuits culminated in a Ph.D. in Veterinary Pathology from the Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Bareilly, in 2008. His doctoral research was focused on understanding viral disease transmission in livestock, which became the cornerstone of his subsequent research career. Dr. Rajkhowa has continuously sought advanced knowledge, attending global conferences, workshops, and courses on emerging diseases and diagnostic technologies.

Research Focus

Dr. Rajkhowa’s research spans several key areas in veterinary pathology. His primary focus includes the molecular epidemiology of viral diseases, their pathogenesis, and diagnostic innovations. He works extensively on viral infections such as African Swine Fever (ASF), Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV), Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS), and Porcine Circovirus (PCV). His studies on these diseases have contributed to the development of rapid diagnostic methods and better control measures. Dr. Rajkhowa has also worked on genetic diagnostics, employing molecular techniques like PCR, ELISA, and sequencing to improve diagnostic accuracy. His research into zoonotic diseases and their transmission pathways in wildlife populations is gaining increasing attention, particularly in the northeastern states of India. The innovative tools he develops aim to improve disease management and control, ensuring better health for animals, humans, and ecosystems alike.

Experience

Dr. Rajkhowa’s professional journey spans over 25 years, during which he has made remarkable contributions to veterinary education and research. After completing his M.V.Sc., he began his academic career as an Assistant Professor at the College of Veterinary Sciences, CAU, Aizawl, where he has progressively risen through the ranks to his current position as Professor and Head of the Department. Throughout his career, Dr. Rajkhowa has been instrumental in expanding the department’s research focus, establishing collaborations with national and international research bodies, and mentoring numerous postgraduate students and doctoral researchers. He has served as a Principal Investigator (PI) on multiple nationally and internationally funded research projects, often partnering with organizations like the ICAR, DBT, ICMR, and USDA. His commitment to hands-on research, in-depth diagnostics, and his ability to bridge academic research with field realities make him a respected figure in veterinary pathology.

Research Timeline

  • 1991-1993: B.V.Sc. & A.H. at Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, India.

  • 1993-1995: M.V.Sc. in Veterinary Pathology at the same institution.

  • 2005: Joined CAU, Aizawl, as Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Veterinary Pathology.

  • 2008: Completed Ph.D. in Veterinary Pathology from Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Bareilly, with a specialization in viral diseases.

  • 2012-present: Appointed as Professor & Head, Department of Veterinary Pathology at CAU.

  • 2010-2024: Acted as Principal Investigator for multiple research projects funded by national and international agencies.

  • 2018: Initiated research collaboration with the USDA and WHO on viral diagnostics and biosecurity.

Awards & Honors

Dr. Rajkhowa’s contributions to veterinary sciences have been widely acknowledged through several awards and honors. Notable recognitions include the IAVP Fellowship Award in 2024 for his outstanding contributions to veterinary pathology, the Best Veterinary Teacher Award by the Indian Association of Veterinary Pathologists (IAVP) in 2021, and the Dr. C.M. Singh Memorial Award in 2023 for his significant work on viral diseases. He has also been the recipient of research grants from esteemed bodies like the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), which have supported his ongoing investigations into emerging viral diseases. His expertise has earned him a prominent place in international veterinary science communities, often being invited as a keynote speaker at global conferences.

Recent Publication

Canine Parvovirus in North-East India: A Phylogenetic and Evolutionary Analysis

Veterinary Quarterly | December 31, 2024
DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2024.2408742
Contributors: Kiran Jayappa, Tridib Kumar Rajkhowa, Satish S. Gaikwad

This study provides a detailed phylogenetic analysis of Canine Parvovirus (CPV) circulating in the northeastern states of India. The team conducted a comprehensive examination of the genetic variability and evolutionary patterns of CPV in the region, revealing the presence of novel strains. The analysis highlights the genetic divergence of CPV isolates in North-East India, which could have implications for vaccination strategies and understanding the epidemiology of the disease in this geographical area.

Molecular Characterization of a Novel Variant of Infectious Bronchitis Virus from Field Outbreaks in Backyard Chicken Population of North-East India

Virus Genes | February 2024
DOI: 10.1007/s11262-024-02056-9
Contributors: Tridib Kumar Rajkhowa, Doris Zodinpuii, Kiran Jayappa, Lalthapuii Hauhnar

In this research, Dr. Rajkhowa and collaborators identified and characterized a novel variant of Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV) responsible for a series of field outbreaks in backyard chicken populations in North-East India. The study involved sequencing the viral genome, which provided insights into the mutation patterns of the virus and its potential to affect poultry health in the region. This research also underscores the need for region-specific diagnostics and control measures to combat emerging viral variants.

Correction: Molecular Characterization of a Novel Variant of Infectious Bronchitis Virus from Field Outbreaks in Backyard Chicken Population of North-East India

Virus Genes | February 2024
DOI: 10.1007/s11262-023-02045-4
Contributors: Tridib Kumar Rajkhowa, Doris Zodinpuii, Kiran Jayappa, Lalthapuii Hauhnar

This publication provides a correction to the previously published study, focusing on the molecular characterization of a novel Infectious Bronchitis Virus variant. The correction further refines the understanding of the viral strain’s genetic profile and its potential role in outbreaks in the backyard poultry sector.

Delta Variant (B.1.617.2) of SARS-CoV-2: Mutations, Impact, Challenges, and Possible Solutions

Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics | November 30, 2022
DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2022.2068883
Contributors: Manish Dhawan, Abhilasha Sharma, Priyanka, Nanamika Thakur, Tridib Kumar Rajkhowa, Om Prakash Choudhary

In this article, Dr. Rajkhowa and co-authors delve into the Delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 (B.1.617.2), exploring the mutations associated with this variant, its epidemiological impact, and the challenges posed by it during the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss strategies for mitigating the spread of the virus, such as enhancing vaccine efficacy, public health measures, and ongoing surveillance.

Molecular Detection and Characterization of African Swine Fever Virus from Field Outbreaks in Domestic Pigs, Mizoram, India

Transboundary and Emerging Diseases | July 2022
DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14384
Contributors: Tridib Kumar Rajkhowa, J. Kiran, Lalthapui Hauhnar, Doris Zodinpui, Amitava Paul, Sheityabati Sagolsem

Prof. Tridib Kumar Rajkhowa: Strengths for the Best Innovator Award

Prof. Tridib Kumar Rajkhowa, a distinguished Professor and Head of the Department of Veterinary Pathology at the College of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, CAU, has demonstrated remarkable innovation in the fields of veterinary pathology, molecular diagnostics, and disease control. With a career spanning over 25 years, he has not only contributed to veterinary research but also played an instrumental role in developing innovative diagnostic technologies and vaccines for both livestock and wildlife populations.

Here are some of the key strengths that make Prof. Rajkhowa a top contender for the Best Innovator Award:

1. Innovation in Molecular Diagnostics

Dr. Rajkhowa has spearheaded several pioneering initiatives in the development of molecular diagnostic tools. By employing advanced techniques like PCR, ELISA, and genomic sequencing, he has significantly improved the accuracy of disease diagnostics, especially in viral infections like African Swine Fever, Newcastle Disease Virus, and Canine Parvovirus. His research on the genetic profiling of pathogens has laid the foundation for rapid, field-deployable diagnostic methods.

2. Viral Disease Pathogenesis and Control

His groundbreaking research into the pathogenesis of viral diseases has allowed for a deeper understanding of how viruses interact with host organisms, paving the way for more effective vaccination strategies. His research on emerging diseases in the northeastern regions of India, especially in the context of zoonotic viruses, has been transformative. The development of region-specific vaccines and the incorporation of biosecurity measures in his work have been critical in controlling outbreaks.

3. Global Collaborations and Impact

Dr. Rajkhowa has established meaningful collaborations with national and international organizations, such as the ICAR, DBT, and USDA, to advance veterinary science. His leadership in multinational research projects has resulted in the development of cutting-edge diagnostic tools and vaccines. His collaborations with WHO and other agencies have solidified his reputation as an innovator in the global veterinary research community.

4. Educational Leadership and Mentorship

In addition to his research accomplishments, Dr. Rajkhowa’s commitment to education and mentoring has cultivated a new generation of researchers and veterinary professionals. As Professor & Head of the Department of Veterinary Pathology at CAU, he has successfully guided numerous postgraduate students and doctoral researchers, empowering them with the skills needed to continue groundbreaking research. His leadership ensures that the next generation of veterinary scientists will carry forward his legacy of innovation.

5. Awards and Recognition

Dr. Rajkhowa’s career has been decorated with numerous accolades, including the IAVP Fellowship Award (2024), the Best Veterinary Teacher Award (2021), and the Dr. C.M. Singh Memorial Award (2023), among others. These honors reflect his dedication to the field of veterinary sciences and his role as an innovator in viral disease diagnostics.

6. Commitment to Veterinary Public Health

Prof. Rajkhowa’s work, particularly in northeastern India, addresses both animal health and public health concerns. His research has directly influenced veterinary public health policy, especially concerning emerging viral threats that affect both livestock and humans. His ongoing research into zoonotic diseases is a testament to his innovative approach to One Health, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.

Martina Baldin, Veterinary Science, Best Researcher Award

Doctorate Martina Baldin: PhD student at University of Padua, Italy

Martina Baldin, DVM, is a passionate veterinary professional and PhD candidate at the University of Padua specializing in veterinary clinical pathology and internal medicine. Her professional journey combines intensive clinical practice with translational research aimed at improving diagnostic approaches in both companion animals and livestock. With a strong scientific background, international congress participation, and awards for academic excellence, she brings a unique balance of laboratory expertise and clinical insight to her research and professional collaborations.

Research Profile

ORCID Profile

Martina is reachable via her institutional and personal emails: martina.baldin.2@phd.unipd.it and martina.baldin@outlook.com. Based in Legnaro (PD), Italy, she is currently affiliated with the University of Padua. While her primary networking has been through academic circles, she is in the process of expanding her digital presence on platforms like LinkedIn and ResearchGate to facilitate broader scientific engagement and collaborations in veterinary science and clinical pathology.

Education

Martina obtained her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from the University of Padua in September 2021, graduating with full honors (110/110 cum laude). Her thesis focused on the development and validation of an acute phase protein index in dogs with neoplastic diseases, reflecting her early commitment to clinical pathology and evidence-based diagnostics. She passed the Italian national veterinary qualification exam in November 2021 and is currently pursuing a PhD in Veterinary Science and Food Safety, further deepening her focus on immune mechanisms and disease biomarkers in large animals.

Research Focus

Her research is primarily centered on the innate and adaptive immune response in cattle, particularly in the context of infectious and metabolic diseases. Martina’s work involves advanced clinical pathology techniques including hematology, biochemical profiling, hormonal and coagulation studies, and cytology. She aims to explore diagnostic biomarkers and pathophysiological patterns that can enhance disease monitoring and treatment outcomes in both clinical and herd health settings. Her translational research approach bridges benchwork with practical veterinary applications, supporting both animal welfare and food safety.

Experience

Martina has accumulated diverse and progressively responsible experience in veterinary clinical and research settings. She has worked as a clinical collaborator and research grant holder at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the University of Bologna, where she was involved in internal medicine (especially nephrology and hematology), laboratory diagnostics, emergency care, and clinical rounds. In private practice, she handled general and emergency medicine cases, including anesthesia and basic surgery. Her current doctoral role at the University of Padua allows her to combine clinical pathology research with hands-on lab work, under the guidance of leading veterinary pathologists.

Research Timeline

Martina’s research timeline reflects steady academic and clinical growth. From November 2024, she began her PhD in veterinary clinical pathology at the University of Padua. Prior to this, she collaborated from February to October 2024 at the University of Bologna in both clinical and research capacities. From February 2023 to January 2024, she held a research grant in the same institution. In 2022, she split her time between private veterinary practice in Thiene and an internship at the University of Padua’s Teaching Hospital, focusing on emergency and critical care. This timeline illustrates a consistent focus on diagnostics, internal medicine, and applied clinical research.

Awards & Honors

Martina has been recognized for her academic and research achievements throughout her career. In 2024, she was awarded Best Oral Presentation at the European Society of Veterinary Clinical Pathology (ESVCP) Congress in Budapest for her presentation on the validation of a veterinary hematology analyzer. In 2019, she was one of the recipients of the “Mille e una lode” scholarship, awarded to the top 1000 students at the University of Padua. She also received the MSD Animal Health and Federation of Veterinarians of Europe scholarship, a competitive European award recognizing promising veterinary students.

Top-Noted Publication

Among Martina’s growing list of scientific contributions, her most recognized work is the oral presentation titled “Validation of Mindray BC75R-Vet hematology analyzer and comparison with Siemens ADVIA 2120i: preliminary results for canine specimens”, presented at the ESVCP Congress 2024 in Budapest. This study showcased her proficiency in clinical hematology and analytical validation, contributing to the optimization of veterinary diagnostic protocols. The presentation earned her the Best Research Oral Presentation award and marked a significant milestone in her academic and research career.

Martina Baldin is first author of the peer-reviewed article titled “Beyond Individual Acute Phase Protein Assessments: Introducing the Acute Phase Index (API) as a Prognostic Indicator in Dogs with Malignant Neoplasia”, published in Veterinary Sciences on June 1, 2025. This study presents the development and application of the Acute Phase Index (API), a novel prognostic biomarker tool that integrates acute phase protein profiles for better assessment of disease severity and prognosis in canine oncology. The article is accessible via DOI: 10.3390/vetsci12060533 and was co-authored by a multidisciplinary team of veterinary clinicians and pathologists.