Florian Wagenlehner | Medical Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Florian Wagenlehner | Medical Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Director at Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany

Prof. Dr. Florian Martin Erich Wagenlehner is an eminent clinician-scientist and academic leader in the fields of urology, pediatric urology, and andrology. Currently serving as Director of the Clinic of Urology, Pediatric Urology, and Andrology at Justus Liebig University Giessen, Germany, he has built a distinguished career that integrates clinical excellence with cutting-edge research. His academic journey and professional achievements highlight his commitment to advancing the understanding and treatment of urogenital infections, antibiotic resistance, and male reproductive health. With more than 490 PubMed-indexed publications and an h-index of 77, his scientific contributions have significantly influenced clinical practice worldwide. Prof. Wagenlehner has led numerous national and international research programs, coordinated multi-center clinical trials, and pioneered new diagnostic approaches. His expertise is widely recognized through memberships in leading medical societies, editorial contributions, and prestigious awards. He continues to inspire the medical community with his dedication to translational research and patient care.

profile

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Education

Prof. Dr. Florian Wagenlehner pursued his medical studies in Germany, where he built a strong foundation in clinical medicine and research methodology. He specialized in urology, pediatric urology, and andrology, combining rigorous academic training with clinical practice to develop expertise across these disciplines. Over the years, his educational pathway was shaped by both structured clinical residencies and continuous involvement in academic research, particularly in urogenital infections and antibiotic resistance. His professional growth was further enriched through collaborations with international institutions, such as the Monash University–Giessen International Research Training Group, where he contributed to cross-border studies on prostatitis, testis cancer, and reproductive health. His deep engagement in medical education is reflected in his academic role at Justus Liebig University Giessen, where he has served as professor since 2016. Through mentoring, lecturing, and supervising research, he has trained future generations of clinicians and scientists while expanding the global understanding of infection-related urological diseases.

Experience

Prof. Wagenlehner has extensive professional experience as both a clinician and researcher. He has served as Professor of Urology, Pediatric Urology, and Andrology at Justus Liebig University Giessen, where he also directs the University Hospital’s Clinic of Urology. His expertise bridges clinical care and translational science, with a strong focus on urogenital infections, antimicrobial resistance, and male reproductive health. He has coordinated and participated in over 40 clinical trials, spanning phases I to III, including investigations of novel antibiotics for urinary tract infections. His experience extends to leading national and international research consortia, serving as speaker for large-scale DFG-funded programs such as BARICADE, and contributing to International Research Training Groups with Monash University. Beyond academia, he has collaborated extensively with the pharmaceutical and biotech industry on consultancy and research projects. His leadership in developing diagnostic tools, evidence-based treatment guidelines, and clinical innovations underscores his role as a global authority.

Professional Development 

Prof. Wagenlehner’s professional development reflects a consistent dedication to excellence in clinical practice, research, and academic leadership. Early in his career, he developed expertise in managing complex urological disorders, gradually focusing on infectious diseases of the urogenital tract. He has since expanded his portfolio by integrating molecular biology, microbiology, and clinical pharmacology into urological research. His participation in prestigious DFG-funded initiatives, including International Research Training Groups with Monash University, allowed him to gain international exposure and foster collaborations that strengthened his scientific output. Over the years, he has also assumed leadership roles in professional societies such as the European Association of Urology and the Paul Ehrlich Society, which further broadened his influence in guideline development and policy-making. His continuous professional growth is also marked by extensive publication, mentorship, and innovation in diagnostic methodology. These experiences have shaped him into a highly respected global leader in urology and infectious disease research.

Skills & Expertise 

Prof. Wagenlehner possesses a unique combination of clinical, scientific, and leadership skills. His expertise lies primarily in urology, pediatric urology, and andrology, with specialization in urinary tract infections, chronic prostatitis, reproductive health, and prostate cancer. A recognized authority on antibiotic resistance, he has conducted groundbreaking translational research and clinical trials that influence treatment guidelines globally. His scientific acumen is evidenced by over 490 PubMed-indexed publications and a strong citation profile. Beyond clinical and research expertise, he has notable skills in international collaboration, having coordinated multi-center research programs and contributed to global consortia. He is also experienced in developing diagnostic tools, exemplified by his authorship of the Acute Cystitis Symptom Score (ACSS). His ability to translate scientific discovery into clinical practice is complemented by his mentorship and teaching roles. Prof. Wagenlehner’s balanced skill set enables him to bridge patient care, innovation, and policy development, making him a leader in his discipline.

Research Interests

Prof. Wagenlehner’s research focuses on understanding and managing urogenital infections, antibiotic resistance, and male reproductive health. He has spearheaded large-scale projects investigating bacterial renal infections, chronic prostatitis, testicular cancer, and the role of inflammatory pathways in male infertility. As speaker of the DFG Research Group BARICADE, he explores host-pathogen interactions in pyelonephritis, integrating pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and immune response parameters. His longstanding collaboration with Monash University through International Research Training Groups has advanced knowledge in reproductive immunology, chronic inflammation, and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Another key focus has been translational studies, bridging molecular insights with clinical applications, and developing individualized disease profiles. His role in over 40 clinical trials—many testing novel antibiotics—demonstrates his leadership in bringing innovative treatments to patients. Additionally, his work on guideline development and diagnostic scoring tools highlights his commitment to improving standards of care. His research ultimately aims to advance personalized medicine in urology and infectious diseases.

Awards

Prof. Wagenlehner’s contributions have been recognized with numerous national and international awards. Early in his career, he received the M. Ohkoshi Award from the International Society of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy , followed by the prestigious Ignaz Philipp Semmelweis Prize  for excellence in infection research. His scientific leadership has been supported by competitive research grants from the Paul Ehrlich Society and the British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, acknowledging the global relevance of his work on antibiotic resistance and urogenital infections. He was appointed Honorary Member of the Swedish Urology Association, a testament to his international impact and reputation. In addition, he has contributed to more than 20 consultancy and industry projects, reflecting recognition from both academia and industry. His extensive publication record, with nearly 500 indexed articles and high citation metrics, further cements his standing as a leading authority. Collectively, these recognitions highlight his influence on clinical practice and scientific progress.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Complicated urinary tract infections in adults
Year: 2009
Citations: ~1,800

Title: Diagnosis and management for urinary tract infections and prostatitis in men
Year: 2011
Citations: ~1200

Title: New strategies in urinary tract infection management
Year: 2018
Citations: 1000

Title: Urogenital infections and antibiotic resistance overview
Year: 2007
Citations:~900

Title: Antimicrobial resistance in urinary tract pathogens: global trends
Year: 2012
Citations: ~850

Title: Acute cystitis symptom score (ACSS): validation study
Year: 2015
Citations: ~600

Title: Guidelines for urological infections (EAU)
Year: 2014
Citations: ~550

Title: Antibiotic stewardship in urology
Year: 2019
Citations: ~400

Conclusion

Prof. Wagenlehner’s prolific research, clinical trial leadership, and impactful innovations make him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His global reputation, scientific contributions, and dedication to advancing clinical practice position him as not only a leader in urology and microbiology but also as an influential figure shaping future standards of infectious disease management.

Alvaro Luiz Bertho | Immunology & Serology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Alvaro Luiz Bertho | Immunology & Serology | Best Researcher Award

Principal Investigator at Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ, Brazil

Dr. Alvaro Luiz Bertho dos Santos is a renowned biomedical scientist recognized for groundbreaking contributions in immunology, immunoparasitology, and flow cytometry. Based at a leading public health research institute, he leads efforts that bridge cellular biology with infectious disease research. As director of a high-impact flow cytometry facility, he facilitates cutting-edge analysis and mentorship within the scientific community. Dr. Bertho is widely respected for pioneering the use of flow cytometry in his region and for his role in shaping future generations of researchers through graduate-level teaching. He actively contributes to international scientific societies, serves as a peer reviewer, and champions global collaboration. His scholarship includes numerous peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and technical guides. With a career dedicated to research excellence, infrastructure development, and public health impact, he has earned a distinguished reputation and consistently drives innovation in immunoparasitology and cellular immunology.

Professional Profile

  Google Scholar | ORCID  profile  

Education

Dr. Bertho possesses a robust academic foundation in biomedical sciences and public health. His educational pathway included intensive training in immunology, parasitology, and cellular biology at preeminent institutions in Brazil. Throughout his studies, he honed advanced laboratory skills, experimented with cutting-edge analytical instruments, and developed strong theoretical understanding of disease immunopathogenesis. His graduate research focused on immune cell behavior during parasitic infections, integrating experimental methods with theoretical frameworks. This educational background equipped him with the knowledge to design impactful studies on host–pathogen interactions and cellular immune responses. It also prepared him to lead high-level scientific facility operations and to guide emerging scholars. His academic credentials reflect a blend of rigorous coursework, practical laboratory training, and collaborative research exposure—creating a foundation for his lifelong contributions to the biomedical and public health research community.

Experience

Dr. Bertho is a seasoned researcher who leads public health–oriented investigations into infectious diseases. As head of a premier flow cytometry facility, he manages complex analyses and supports multiple research collaborations. He mentors graduate students within a parasite biology research program, guiding thesis design, technical execution, and scientific dissemination. His experience spans research coordination, laboratory leadership, and interdisciplinary projects involving cellular immunology and infectious disease pathology. In academic settings, he has contributed to undergraduate and graduate teaching and provided specialized consulting on immunology topics. In previous roles, he has advised clinical laboratories and taught in complementary biomedical programs, combining practical diagnostics expertise with academic instruction. His professional experience embodies leadership, technical innovation, and mentorship in research-intensive environments.

Award and Honor

While specific prize names are not listed, Dr. Bertho’s career is marked by significant recognition within national and international scientific communities. He is a respected member of multiple scientific associations dedicated to cytometry and extracellular vesicle research, as well as regional immunology organizations. His reputation as a leader in flow cytometry and infectious disease immunology is underlined by frequent invitations to peer-review leading international journals. He is known for developing institutional platforms and technical manuals that support both education and research, contributing to research infrastructure recognized across the region. His professional standing reflects community acknowledgment of his scientific contributions, thought leadership, and service to the research community. The honors implicit in his leadership roles and institutional impact reinforce his status as an esteemed researcher.

Research Focus

Dr. Bertho’s research explores immune mechanisms in parasitic and infectious diseases, with a special focus on immune cell–derived extracellular vesicles. He investigates how these vesicles influence disease onset, progression, and immune regulation, particularly in tropical diseases like malaria and leishmaniasis. His work leverages advanced flow cytometry techniques to uncover biomarkers and cellular pathways involved in host–pathogen interactions. By combining immunogenetic analysis, cell biology, and technology-driven profiling tools, he aims to understand how immune dysregulation contributes to disease severity. His research supports development of targeted diagnostics and therapeutic strategies, and contributes to vaccine-related investigations through detailed immune profiling. Dr. Bertho’s focus emphasizes translational potential, linking basic science to public health outcomes and fostering collaborative frameworks across research networks.

Research Skill

Dr. Bertho brings a highly specialized skill set in flow cytometry, immunoanalytical assays, and molecular immunology. He excels in experimental design for immune profiling, extracellular vesicle characterization, and immunogenetics studies. As a facility director, he oversees instrumentation management, protocol development, and multidisciplinary support for internal and external collaborators. He also excels in academic mentorship, guiding complex research projects and fostering critical thinking among students. His communication skills include authoring scientific papers, technical manuals, and teaching curricula. He is adept at coordinating research grants, network collaborations, and peer-review processes. His skill set also includes consulting on immunology methodologies and supporting large research infrastructures. These competencies position him as a key leader in immunoparasitology research, educational mentorship, and infrastructure development.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Identification of naturally infected Lutzomyia intermedia and Lutzomyia migonei with Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) revealed by a polymerase chain reaction assay
Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
Citations: 210
Year: 2005

Title: Leishmania-reactive CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells associated with cure of human cutaneous leishmaniasis
Infection and Immunity
Citations: 170
Year: 1994

Title: Synthesis, pharmacological evaluation and electrochemical studies of novel 6-nitro-3,4-methylenedioxyphenyl-N-acylhydrazone derivatives: Discovery of LASSBio-881, a new ligand for neuropathic and inflammatory pain
Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry
Citations: 107
Year: 2007

Title: Evaluation of the stability and immunogenicity of autoclaved and nonautoclaved preparations of a vaccine against American tegumentary leishmaniasis
Citations: 102
Year: 1999

Tile: T-cell responsiveness of American cutaneous leishmaniasis patients to purified Leishmania pifanoi amastigote antigens and Leishmania braziliensis promastigote antigens: Immunologic patterns associated with cure
Experimental Parasitology
Citations: 101
Year: 1996

Title: Characterization of human T lymphocyte-mediated immune responses induced by a vaccine against American tegumentary leishmaniasis
The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
Citations: 93
Year: 1995

Title: Flow cytometry in the study of cell death
Memórias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz
Citations: 92
Year: 2000

Title: Leishmania amazonensis: Multidrug resistance in vinblastine-resistant promastigotes is associated with rhodamine 123 efflux, DNA amplification, and RNA overexpression of a P-glycoprotein gene
Experimental Parasitology
Citations: 80
Year: 1995

Title: Immunologic patterns associated with cure in human American cutaneous leishmaniasis
Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research
Citations: 68
Year: 1998

Title: Flow cytometric analysis of cellular infiltrate from American tegumentary leishmaniasis lesions
British Journal of Dermatology
Citations: 67
Year: 2005

Title: Detection of early apoptosis and cell death in CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells from lesions of patients with localized cutaneous leishmaniasis
Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research
Citations: 57
Year: 2000

Conclusion

Dr. Alvaro Luiz Bertho dos Santos stands out as a distinguished and pioneering researcher whose long-standing contributions to immunoparasitology and flow cytometry have had a transformative effect on biomedical research in Brazil and Latin America. His prolific scientific output, leadership in research infrastructure, commitment to mentorship, and active role in international scientific societies make him highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. With continued focus on global engagement and scholarly visibility, Dr. Bertho is well-positioned to lead future advancements in infectious disease research and contribute meaningfully to global health challenges.