Prof. Dr. Stefka Valcheva-Kuzmanova | Pharmacology – Prof. DSc, and MD at Medical University in Varna, Bulgaria
Prof. Stefka Valcheva-Kuzmanova is an esteemed academician and prolific researcher in the field of pharmacology, currently serving at the Medical University of Varna. With a career spanning over two decades, she has become a well-recognized figure in experimental pharmacology, especially known for her work on bioactive compounds derived from medicinal plants. Her scholarly contributions have made a significant impact in preclinical studies related to liver toxicity, metabolic disorders, gastrointestinal damage, and neurodegenerative conditions. With over 2,000 citations and an h-index of 19, she is acknowledged both nationally and internationally for her influential research output. Her dedication to science, innovation, and academic mentorship makes her a leading voice in the pharmacological research community.
Academic Profile:
Education:
Prof. Valcheva-Kuzmanova holds a strong academic foundation in pharmacology, supported by comprehensive education in clinical pharmacology and therapeutic sciences. Her higher education and advanced training were rooted in a medical academic institution known for producing leading researchers in the field. She progressed through her academic journey with a focus on translational medicine, bioactivity of plant-based compounds, and preclinical experimentation, establishing the groundwork for her innovative research career. Her academic trajectory reflects a balance of theoretical knowledge and rigorous experimental practice, preparing her to address both foundational science and applied medical research.
Experience:
Throughout her extensive academic tenure, Prof. Valcheva-Kuzmanova has held various research and teaching roles at the Medical University of Varna. As a professor in the Department of Pharmacology, she has supervised numerous student theses, collaborated with interdepartmental teams, and led pioneering research projects on natural therapeutic agents. She has collaborated with experts across pharmacology, biochemistry, and toxicology, contributing to multidisciplinary studies and mentoring early-career scientists. Her experience spans not only experimental design and execution but also strategic leadership in scientific communication and publication. She has contributed to institutional development through curriculum enhancement, laboratory coordination, and research funding applications.
Research Interest:
Her research interests center around experimental pharmacology, natural product pharmacology, and clinical pharmacology. Prof. Valcheva-Kuzmanova has extensively explored the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of polyphenol-rich plant extracts, with a special focus on Aronia melanocarpa (black chokeberry) and its protective effects on various organ systems. Her work delves into mechanisms of oxidative stress, inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and gastrointestinal damage, aiming to discover bio-compatible therapeutic alternatives. She also investigates neuroprotective and anxiolytic effects of phytochemicals in animal models, contributing to the understanding of alternative treatments for cognitive and emotional disorders.
Award:
Prof. Valcheva-Kuzmanova has been recognized for her academic excellence, peer-reviewed publications, and significant contribution to pharmacological sciences. Her consistent research output, influential citations, and impactful co-authored studies position her as a strong candidate for national and international research awards. As an accomplished faculty member and principal investigator, she has played an integral role in enhancing the visibility of Bulgarian biomedical research. Her commitment to evidence-based science and mentorship contributes to the academic and scientific advancement of the region.
Publications:
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🫐 “Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of Aronia melanocarpa fruit juice in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats” (2007, Methods and Findings in Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology) – Cited by 224 articles.
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🛡️ “Hepatoprotective effect of natural fruit juice from Aronia melanocarpa on carbon tetrachloride-induced acute liver damage in rats” (2004, Experimental and Toxicologic Pathology) – Cited by 203 articles.
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🌿 “Current knowledge of Aronia melanocarpa as a medicinal plant” (2006, Folia Medica) – Cited by 190 articles.
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🫀 “Antihyperlipidemic effect of Aronia melanocarpa fruit juice in rats fed a high-cholesterol diet” (2007, Plant Foods for Human Nutrition) – Cited by 184 articles.
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🧪 “Effect of Aronia melanocarpa fruit juice on indomethacin-induced gastric mucosal damage and oxidative stress in rats” (2005, Experimental and Toxicologic Pathology) – Cited by 150 articles.
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🌸 “Review on the pharmacological activities of anethole” (2015, Scripta Scientifica Pharmaceutica) – Cited by 107 articles.
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💊 “Aronia melanocarpa fruit juice ameliorates the symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease in TNBS-induced colitis in rats” (2018, Food and Chemical Toxicology) – Cited by 58 articles.
Conclusion:
Prof. Stefka Valcheva-Kuzmanova exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated, impactful, and forward-thinking researcher. Her in-depth studies on Aronia melanocarpa and related phytocompounds have contributed significantly to the fields of experimental pharmacology and natural medicine. Her research addresses critical health concerns through safe, plant-based interventions, and her scholarly work continues to inspire and inform. With a balance of scientific rigor, collaborative leadership, and innovation, she is a strong nominee for the Best Researcher Award. Her commitment to academic excellence and translational research not only uplifts the scientific community of Bulgaria but also resonates globally in the search for integrative and evidence-backed medical solutions.