Marco Coolen | Sedimentary ancient DNA | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Marco Coolen | Sedimentary ancient DNA | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor of Molecular Paleoecology at Curtin University, Australia.

Dr. Marco J.L. Coolen is an Associate Professor of Molecular Paleoecology at Curtin University, Australia 🇦🇺. A pioneer in sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA) research 🧬, he explores past microbial communities and environmental change through molecular techniques. With over 23 years of international research experience 🌍, his work spans deep-sea ecosystems, cave microbiomes, and Indigenous rock art conservation 🪨. He has published in top journals like Science and PNAS, and actively contributes to global scientific communities. Dr. Coolen leads major projects in microbial ecology, bioremediation, and paleoenvironmental reconstruction, mentoring future scientists 👨‍🔬 and shaping the future of earth system science 🌿.

Prfoessional Profile:

ORCID

Suitability for Best Researcher Award – Dr. Marco J.L. Coolen

Dr. Marco J.L. Coolen is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his pioneering contributions to molecular paleoecology, particularly in the field of sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA). With over 23 years of global research experience, his groundbreaking work has not only advanced scientific understanding of past microbial ecosystems and climate change but also contributed to cultural heritage conservation. He has published extensively in top-tier journals such as Science and PNAS, demonstrating both scholarly excellence and real-world relevance. His consistent research impact, interdisciplinary leadership, and mentorship make him a top contender for this recognition.

🎓 Education and Experience

  • 🎓 Ph.D. in Molecular Microbial Ecology, University of Oldenburg, Germany (2001)

  • 🎓 M.Sc. in Cellular Biology & Microbial Ecology, Wageningen University, Netherlands (1996)

  • 🎓 B.Sc. in Microbiology, International Agricultural College Larenstein, Netherlands (1992)

  • 🧪 Associate Professor, Curtin University, Australia 🇦🇺

  • 🔬 Associate & Assistant Scientist, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI), USA 🇺🇸

  • 🧫 Postdoctoral Investigator, Royal NIOZ & University of Groningen, Netherlands 🇳🇱

📈 Professional Development

Dr. Coolen has continuously advanced his expertise through global collaborations and leadership in high-impact projects 🌐. He is a member of the IODP Science Committee 🌊, Editor for Frontiers in Microbiology 📚, and guest editor for special issues on ancient microbiomes 🧬. He has mentored over 20 graduate researchers and several postdocs 🎓. Dr. Coolen actively engages in interdisciplinary research and training initiatives, including the Murujuga Rock Art Monitoring Program 🪨 and Lake Towuti sedaDNA projects in Sulawesi 🇮🇩. His knowledge is regularly sought by top journals and funding bodies, reflecting his leadership and dedication to microbial and paleoenvironmental sciences 🔍.

🔍 Research Focus Category

Dr. Coolen’s research focuses on Molecular Paleoecology, specializing in sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA) 🧬. His interdisciplinary studies link microbial ecology, geobiology, and climate science to reconstruct past ecosystems and environmental changes 🌍. He investigates ancient microbial communities, algal blooms, and evolutionary dynamics in marine and freshwater environments 🌊. His work also includes the impact of microorganisms on cultural heritage such as Aboriginal rock art 🪨, microbial bioremediation, and deep biosphere microbiomes 🌋. With cutting-edge DNA techniques, Dr. Coolen reveals the unseen microbial past, providing critical insights into biodiversity shifts, climate feedbacks, and ecosystem resilience over geological timescales 🧫🌿.

🏆 Awards and Honors

  • 🏅 Curtin Research Excellence Awards – 2017, 2019

  • 🌍 CAS PIFI Guest Professorship, Chinese Academy of Sciences

  • 🥇 VENI Award, Netherlands Research Council (NWO)

  • 👨‍🏫 Mentor of Ph.D. and Postdoctoral Scholars, including Dr. Bill Orsi (LMU Munich)

  • 🏆 Invited Keynote Speaker & Panelist, various international conferences

Publication Top Notes

  1. 🛢️ Title: Microbiological assessment of reservoir souring in oil fields of Siri Island, Persian Gulf, during water injection

    • Authors: M. Sadeghi, M. Tabaei, M. R. Kamali, B. Rasekh, M. Coolen

    • Journal: International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology

    • Published: April 2025

    • DOI: 10.1007/s13762-024-06297-x

    • Summary: This study investigates microbial-induced souring in oil reservoirs on Siri Island during water injection operations. It highlights the key microbial players responsible for sulfide production and proposes mitigation strategies to prevent biocorrosion and enhance oil recovery efficiency.

  1. 🌿 Title: A Quaternary Sedimentary Ancient DNA (sedaDNA) Record of Fungal–Terrestrial Ecosystem Dynamics in a Tropical Biodiversity Hotspot (Lake Towuti, Sulawesi, Indonesia)

    • Authors: Md Akhtar-E Ekram, Cornelia Wuchter, Satria Bijaksana, Kliti Grice, James Russell, Janelle Stevenson, Hendrik Vogel, Marco J.L. Coolen

    • Journal: Microorganisms

    • Published: April 27, 2025

    • DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms13051005

    • Summary: Utilizing ancient fungal sedaDNA, this research reconstructs terrestrial ecosystem changes in the Lake Towuti region over Quaternary timescales. The findings reveal detailed shifts in fungal biodiversity linked to climate and environmental changes in a tropical hotspot.

  1. 🪨 Title: Deep subsurface microbial life in impact‐altered Late Paleozoic granitoid rocks from the Chicxulub impact crater

    • Authors: Sohaib Naseer Quraish, Charles Cockell, Cornelia Wuchter, David Kring, Kliti Grice, Marco J.L. Coolen

    • Journal: Geobiology

    • Published: January 2024

    • DOI: 10.1111/gbi.12583

    • Summary: This paper explores microbial communities thriving in ancient granitoid rocks modified by the Chicxulub impact. It reveals survival mechanisms and energy sources used by subsurface life in one of Earth’s most extreme environments, enhancing our understanding of deep biosphere habitats.

  1. 📘 Title: Bacterial and Archaeal DNA from Lake Sediments

    • Authors: Aurèle Vuillemin, Marco J.L. Coolen, Jens Kallmeyer, Susanne Liebner, Stefan Bertilsson

    • Source: Tracking Environmental Change Using Lake Sediments (Book chapter)

    • Published: 2023

    • DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-43799-1_4

    • ISBN: 9783031437984 / 9783031437991

    • ISSN: 1571-5299 / 2215-1672

    • Summary: This chapter details the extraction, sequencing, and interpretation of bacterial and archaeal DNA from lake sediments. It emphasizes their utility in reconstructing past environments and microbial ecosystem dynamics over millennia.

  1. 🌿 Title: Interpreting the Molecular Record in Extraordinarily Preserved Concretion Fossils: Mimicking Microbial Fossilisation of Modern Gingko Leaves and True Fern Fronds

    • Authors: K. Grice, H. Vijay, A. Elson, M. Tripp, M. Coolen, A. Holman, C. Wuchter, N. Dhami

    • Source: IMOG 2023 (International Meeting on Organic Geochemistry) – Conference Abstract

    • Published: 2023

    • DOI: 10.3997/2214-4609.202333149

    • Summary: This abstract presents findings on molecular preservation in fossil concretions. Using experiments that simulate microbial fossilization of modern plant tissues, the study sheds light on mechanisms that allow biomolecules to persist over geological timescales.

🏁 Conclusion

Dr. Coolen exemplifies the qualities of a Best Researcher through sustained excellence in innovative, interdisciplinary science, international leadership, and impactful mentorship. His work continues to reshape how we understand Earth’s microbial history and climate resilience, making him eminently deserving of the Best Researcher Award.

MD AKHTAR-E EKRAM | Ancient DNA | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. MD AKHTAR-E EKRAM | Ancient DNA | Best Researcher Award

Professor at University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh.

Dr. Md. Akhtar-E Ekram 👨‍🔬 is a Professor at Rajshahi University, Bangladesh 🇧🇩, specializing in Molecular Ecology, Geomicrobiology, and Environmental Microbiology 🧫. With a Ph.D. from Curtin University, Australia 🇦🇺 (2024), he focuses on ancient DNA (sedaDNA) to reconstruct past terrestrial ecosystems 🌍. He has been teaching since 2009 and became a full Professor in 2024 👨‍🏫. Dr. Ekram is actively involved in research on microbial interactions, nanoparticle biosynthesis, and environmental DNA metabarcoding 🔬. He is affiliated with renowned societies 🌐 and has published widely in top-tier journals 📚, contributing to ecological and microbiological knowledge globally 🌱.

Professional Profile:

ORCID

Google Scholar

Suitability for Best Researcher Award – Dr. Md. Akhtar-E Ekram

Dr. Md. Akhtar-E Ekram is an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his pioneering research in molecular ecology, geomicrobiology, and environmental microbiology, combined with an impressive academic trajectory and international collaborations. With a recently earned Ph.D. from Curtin University (2024) and a steady rise through academia culminating in his promotion to Professor in 2024, Dr. Ekram has demonstrated consistent scholarly excellence. His cutting-edge work on sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA) and microbial ecosystems places him at the forefront of environmental and ecological research in South Asia and globally.

🎓 Education & Experience

  • 🎓 Ph.D. in Geomicrobiology & Molecular Ecology, Curtin University, Australia (2024)

  • 🎓 M.Phil. in Environmental Microbiology, Rajshahi University, Bangladesh (2015)

  • 🎓 M.Sc. in Genetic Engineering, Rajshahi University (2004)

  • 🎓 B.Sc. (Hons) in Genetics & Breeding, Rajshahi University (2003)

  • 👨‍🏫 Teaching since 2009 at Rajshahi University

  • 🧑‍🔬 Promoted to Professor in 2024

  • 🎯 Supervised multiple M.S. and undergraduate research projects

🚀 Professional Development

Dr. Ekram continuously advances his expertise through scholarly engagement and professional collaborations 🌐. He is an active member of international scientific communities, including the European Geosciences Union 🌍, The sedaDNA Scientific Society 🧬, and the American Society for Microbiology 🦠. His lab activities are enriched by the use of cutting-edge molecular tools like PCR, electrophoresis, DNA extraction, and R-based bioinformatics 📊. He has also participated in workshops and global conferences, fostering innovation and interdisciplinary knowledge exchange 🧠. His mentorship of young researchers and commitment to academic excellence make him a dynamic force in environmental microbiology and molecular ecology 🌱.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Ekram’s research centers on microbial ecology, biodegradation, and sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA) 🧫. He investigates microbial communities in environmental samples to understand ecological dynamics and past ecosystem structures 🌿. His work incorporates metabarcoding, bioremediation, and nanoparticle biosynthesis using microorganisms 🌐. Through advanced molecular techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, and high-throughput sequencing 🧬, he deciphers the roles of microbes in environmental sustainability. His studies significantly contribute to ecosystem reconstruction, geomicrobiology, and climate change insights ⛅. Dr. Ekram’s interdisciplinary approach enhances our understanding of microbial life and its role in natural and impacted habitats 🌍.

🏅 Awards & Honors

  • 🥇 Curtin International Postgraduate Research Scholarship

  • 🏆 Shaheed Habibur Rahman Gold Medal

  • 🧬 Membership in European Geosciences Union

  • 🧫 Member of American Society for Microbiology

  • 🌍 Member of The sedaDNA Scientific Society

Publication Top Notes

  1. 🔬 Title: Efficacy of soil‐borne Enterobacter sp. for carbofuran degradation: HPLC quantitation of degradation rate

    • Authors: MAE Ekram, I Sarker, MS Rahi, MA Rahman, AK Saha, MA Reza

    • Journal: Journal of Basic Microbiology, 60(5), 390–399

    • Cited by: 31

    • Year: 2020

    • Summary: This study investigates a soil-isolated Enterobacter species for its ability to degrade the toxic pesticide carbofuran. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to quantify the degradation, highlighting the strain’s bioremediation potential.

  1. 🍇 Title: Probiotic potential of Lactobacillus plantarum DMR14 for preserving and extending shelf life of fruits and fruit juice

    • Authors: S Islam, S Biswas, T Jabin, M Moniruzzaman, J Biswas, MS Uddin, et al.

    • Journal: Heliyon, 9(6)

    • Cited by: 22

    • Year: 2023

    • Summary: The research demonstrates how L. plantarum DMR14, a probiotic strain, can extend the shelf life of fruits and juices by inhibiting spoilage organisms, showcasing potential for natural food preservation.

  1. 🧵 Title: Efficacy of Pseudomonas sp. and Bacillus sp. in textile dye degradation: a combined study on molecular identification, growth optimization, and comparative degradation

    • Authors: SAJ Rima, GK Paul, S Islam, M Akhtar-E-Ekram, S Zaman, MA Saleh, et al.

    • Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials Letters, 3, 100068

    • Cited by: 20

    • Year: 2022

    • Summary: This paper evaluates two bacterial strains (Pseudomonas and Bacillus) for their ability to degrade harmful textile dyes. Molecular techniques and optimized growth conditions were employed to enhance bioremediation efficiency.

  1. 🦠 Title: Cell-Free Supernatants (CFSs) from the Culture of Bacillus subtilis Inhibit Pseudomonas sp. Biofilm Formation

    • Authors: S Islam, ML Mahmud, WH Almalki, S Biswas, MA Islam, MG Mortuza, et al.

    • Journal: Microorganisms, 10(11), 2105

    • Cited by: 17

    • Year: 2022

    • Summary: This study finds that extracellular metabolites from Bacillus subtilis cultures significantly inhibit biofilm formation by Pseudomonas species, suggesting anti-biofilm applications in healthcare and food industries.

  1. 🌾 Title: Hydrogen-rich water: a key player in boosting wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seedling growth and drought resilience

    • Authors: MA Islam, MNA Shorna, S Islam, S Biswas, J Biswas, S Islam, AK Dutta, et al.

    • Journal: Scientific Reports, 13(1), 22521

    • Cited by: 8

    • Year: 2023

    • Summary: The paper reveals that hydrogen-rich water significantly enhances wheat seedling growth and improves resilience under drought stress, offering a promising strategy for sustainable agriculture.

  1. 🌴 Title: A 1 Ma sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA) record of catchment vegetation changes and the developmental history of tropical Lake Towuti (Sulawesi, Indonesia)

    • Authors: MAE Ekram, M Campbell, SH Kose, C Plet, R Hamilton, S Bijaksana, et al.

    • Journal: Geobiology, 22(3), e12599

    • Cited by: 3

    • Year: 2024

    • Summary: This study utilizes ancient DNA extracted from sediments to reconstruct a 1-million-year history of vegetation changes around Lake Towuti, providing critical insights into tropical ecosystem evolution.

  1. 🧬 Title: Klebsiella pneumoniae Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Protect Artemia salina from Fish Pathogen Aeromonas sp.: A Combined In Vitro, In Vivo, and In Silico Study

    • Authors: ML Mahmud, S Islam, S Biswas, MG Mortuza, GK Paul, MS Uddin, et al.

    • Journal: Microorganisms, 11(1), 172

    • Cited by: 3

    • Year: 2023

    • Summary: The paper explores how VOCs produced by K. pneumoniae protect Artemia salina from Aeromonas infection, combining lab, animal, and computational approaches to reveal therapeutic potentials.

  1. 🌿 Title: Biological Activities of the Methanolic Extracts of Coccinia indica and Mikania scandens Leaves Available in Bangladesh

    • Authors: MAE Ekram, MEH Sarker, AP Talukder, B Sarker, MS Uddin, S Zaman

    • Journal: Dhaka University Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 16(1), 87–93

    • Cited by: 2

    • Year: 2017

    • Summary: This research evaluates the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic properties of methanolic leaf extracts of Coccinia indica and Mikania scandens, supporting their use in traditional medicine.

  1. 🧪 Title: Assessing Bioaccumulation Potentiality of Lead-and Chromium-Tolerant Bacterial Strain from Tannery Effluents of Bangladesh through Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer

    • Authors: M Akhtar-E-Ekram, AP Talukder, N Haque, S Tazrian, S Zaman, S Uddin, et al.

    • Journal: Journal of Environmental Microbiology and Toxicology, 7(1), 36–43

    • Cited by: 1

    • Year: 2019

    • Summary: This study identifies and analyzes heavy metal-tolerant bacteria from tannery waste, using atomic absorption to quantify lead and chromium uptake, suggesting a microbial solution for industrial pollution.

Conclusion

With a rich combination of academic rigor, technical excellence, and international scholarly influence, Dr. Md. Akhtar-E Ekram stands out as a deserving recipient of the Best Researcher Award. His interdisciplinary contributions are not only advancing scientific frontiers in microbiology and ecology but are also shaping our understanding of environmental change and sustainability.