Dr. Rihab Chhoud | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Researcher at Faculty of Pharmacy of Monastir, Tunisia

Dr. Rihab Chhoud 🇹🇳 is a dynamic Tunisian chemist specializing in the phytochemical and pharmacological exploration of bioactive compounds from oasis fruit trees 🌴. With a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the Faculty of Sciences of Monastir (2022), her work integrates organic synthesis, biomolecule characterization, and drug discovery. A seasoned researcher with international exposure, Dr. Chhoud conducted significant doctoral internships in Italy 🇮🇹 and Spain 🇪🇸, enriching her scientific depth. Her postdoctoral research focuses on green extraction of oleuropein from organic olive leaves 🌿 for nutraceutical applications. She has authored impactful publications in journals like International Journal of Biological Macromolecules and Chemical Biodiversity, targeting antidiabetic, antiherpetic, and antioxidant therapies. Passionate about soft skills and academic writing, she also actively trains students in chemistry-related disciplines. Dr. Chhoud exemplifies the new wave of innovative, globally-aware women scientists making substantial contributions to sustainable health sciences 🌍👩‍🔬.

Professional Profile 

• ORCID Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Rihab Chhoud’s academic journey began with a fundamental license in Chemistry from Gabes University 🎓. She pursued a Research Master’s in Organic Synthesis at Monastir, delving into the biomolecular richness of Tunisian date seeds 🌰. Her Ph.D. (2017–2022) at the Laboratory of Advanced Materials and Interfaces (LIMA) showcased her multidisciplinary strengths—merging chemistry, pharmacology, and bioactivity profiling. Supervised by Prof. Hatem Majdoub, her doctoral research examined biologically active compounds from oasis fruit trees, blending traditional knowledge with modern analytical tools. Additional certifications in academic writing, soft skills, and molecular docking reflect her commitment to holistic scientific development 📚. Her global perspective was enhanced by internships in Italy and Spain, sharpening her technical fluency and international communication 🌐. From high school distinctions to postgraduate excellence, Dr. Chhoud’s educational background is rooted in resilience, curiosity, and consistent academic merit. Her learning path is a testament to dedication, purpose, and interdisciplinary vision 🌟.

🧪 Professional Experience

Dr. Chhoud has cultivated rich professional experience in academia and international research environments 👩‍🏫. As a postdoctoral researcher at the Faculty of Pharmacy, Monastir (2025–present), she’s engaged in green chemistry innovations involving oleuropein extraction from organic olive leaves 🌿. She previously served as a temporary teacher, delivering practical chemistry lessons ranging from biochemistry to chromatographic techniques. Her career includes prestigious doctoral research stays in Spain and Italy, exploring bioactive substances and their therapeutic potential under expert mentorship 🇪🇸🇮🇹. From 2014 to 2023, she consistently pursued opportunities to refine her scientific writing, English proficiency, and lab methodology through summer schools, soft-skill workshops, and publishing programs 📖. Her ability to transition seamlessly between labs, classrooms, and international forums marks her as a versatile and proactive professional. Dr. Chhoud’s career pathway embodies a globalized, interdisciplinary, and education-oriented model, empowering her to address complex chemical and biomedical challenges with clarity and creativity 🧬.

🧠 Research Interests

Dr. Chhoud’s research interests lie at the intersection of natural product chemistry, green extraction technologies, and biomedical applications 🌿💊. Her investigations have centered on isolating and characterizing polyphenols, polysaccharides, and fatty substances from Tunisian plant sources, particularly date palms and olive leaves 🌴. She’s deeply invested in understanding the pharmacological properties of these compounds, such as antidiabetic, wound-healing, and antiviral effects. Her advanced techniques include UPLC-MS analysis, molecular docking, and structure–activity relationship (SAR) studies 🔬. Currently, her work on oleuropein optimization for nutraceuticals aligns with global trends in sustainable healthcare and functional foods. Dr. Chhoud is also intrigued by biopolymers and their enzymatic behaviors in disease models such as Parkinson’s 🧬. Whether studying enzyme inhibition or plasma antioxidant levels, her aim is to extract value from nature using chemistry, for practical therapeutic benefit. Her research bridges tradition and innovation—transforming indigenous flora into global health solutions 🌍💡.

🏆 Awards and Honors

While Dr. Chhoud’s formal accolades are still emerging, her academic path and global participation reflect significant recognition and promise 🎖️. She was competitively selected for doctoral internships in top labs in Naples and Granada, funded by the Tunisian Ministry of Higher Education and ERASMUS+, respectively 🌍. She has also benefited from advanced training in scientific writing, academic English, soft skills, and computational drug design—showcasing her proactive pursuit of excellence beyond standard curricula 🏅. Her peer-reviewed publications in internationally indexed journals further demonstrate her contributions to cutting-edge research. Participating in events like International Day of Women and Girls in Science underscores her commitment to STEM equity 👩‍🔬✨. Dr. Chhoud’s work represents the intellectual resilience and innovation of North African women in science, and her continuous self-development initiatives signal future accolades at national and international levels 🥇📚.

📚 Publications Top Note 

1. Structural characterization and functional evaluation of polysaccharides extracted from the heart of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.): Insights into α-amylase inhibition and antidiabetic potential

• Authors: Rihab Chhoud

• Year: 2025

• Citation (DOI): 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.145425

• Source: International Journal of Biological Macromolecules

• Summary:
  This study investigates the structure and function of bioactive polysaccharides derived from the heart of date palm. Using various analytical techniques, the research characterizes their molecular composition and morphology. The polysaccharides exhibit notable α-amylase inhibition, indicating their potential as natural antidiabetic agents by moderating glucose release. These findings support the use of date palm-derived compounds in functional food or therapeutic formulations for diabetes management.

2. Chemical Profile of the Pits Oil from the Tunisian ‘Alig’ Cultivar of Phoenix dactylifera L.: In Vivo Wound Healing Potential Evaluation of a Cream Formulated from the Extracted Oil and Insights from Molecular Docking and SAR Analysis

• Authors: Rihab Chhoud

• Year: 2023

• Citation (DOI): 10.1002/cbdv.202200533

• Source: Chemistry & Biodiversity

• Summary:
  This paper reports the chemical composition of oil extracted from the pits of the Tunisian date palm cultivar ‘Alig’. The formulated oil-based cream demonstrated significant wound healing properties in in vivo animal models. Additionally, molecular docking and structure–activity relationship (SAR) analysis identified possible mechanisms behind the bioactivity, suggesting fatty acids and phenolic compounds as key active constituents. The research supports the oil’s use in topical therapies for skin injuries.

3. Identification of an anti-herpetic compound isolated from Pistacia vera L. male floral buds

• Authors: Rihab Chhoud

• Year: 2022

• Citation (DOI): 10.1007/s13205-022-03393-y

• Source: 3 Biotech

• Summary:
  The study isolated and identified a bioactive compound from male floral buds of Pistacia vera (pistachio) with anti-herpetic properties. In vitro assays confirmed inhibitory effects against herpes simplex virus (HSV) strains. The compound demonstrated low cytotoxicity and high selectivity index, making it a promising natural antiviral candidate. The work adds value to underexplored parts of the pistachio plant in phytopharmaceutical development.

4. Phytochemical and Bioactivities of Male Flower Buds of Fruit Trees from the Southern Tunisia: Polyphenols UPLC-MS Profiles and Antioxidant Enzymatic Potential in Human Plasma of Parkinson’s Disease Patients

• Authors: Rihab Chhoud

• Year: 2022

• Citation (DOI): 10.1007/s42250-022-00430-4

• Source: Chemistry Africa

• Summary:
  This paper explores the polyphenolic composition (via UPLC-MS) of male flower buds from various fruit trees in southern Tunisia and evaluates their antioxidant effects on human plasma from Parkinson’s disease patients. The extracts enhanced enzymatic antioxidant defenses (e.g., SOD, CAT) and reduced oxidative stress markers. The findings highlight the neuroprotective potential of these traditional plant parts, paving the way for complementary therapies in neurodegenerative diseases

🔚 Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Rihab Chhoud is a forward-thinking chemist blending rigorous science with social impact 🔍💚. Her interdisciplinary training, international collaborations, and research on bioactive compounds place her at the forefront of sustainable biomedical innovation. A passionate teacher, active researcher, and lifelong learner, she bridges laboratory precision with real-world relevance. Her dedication to natural product discovery and green chemistry aligns with global health and environmental goals. From oasis fruit trees to molecular modeling, her journey is rooted in both local heritage and global vision 🌿🌐. With her expanding publication record and strong academic foundation, Dr. Chhoud is poised to contribute substantially to nutraceutical development, pharmacological science, and academic mentorship. A shining example of Tunisia’s emerging scientific talent, her career holds promise for further breakthroughs in natural therapies and chemical biology. The future looks bright for this devoted researcher, educator, and role model in modern chemistry 🧪✨.