Dr. Ayla Limayem honored as a Rising Star of the Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida

Dr. Alya Limayem, associate professor of biology at the University of North Florida, was named a 2024 Rising Star of the Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine of Florida (ASEMFL) during its annual meeting this past weekend in Orlando.  

As one of 19 honorees from around the state, Dr. Limayem was recognized for her contributions to the field of science, namely for her patented work in pioneering nanotherapeutics against emerging drug resistance, and for top research in renewable resources, enhancing public health safety and security. 

"Receiving this award is a meaningful recognition of the high standards, dedication and values I strive to maintain in my work," Limayem said. "It serves as a reminder that learning and growth are part of a continuous journey in any profession. Upholding ethical practices, even when challenges arise, remains central to my approach, and this honor encourages me to keep contributing positively to science and education. I'm inspired to continue making a difference, knowing that genuine dedication and integrity resonate with others in the field." 

Limayem said the award enhances her credibility as a researcher and has provided a sense of renewed encouragement to further pursue her goals for herself, her students and collaborators.  

"This positive energy and acknowledgment inspire me to continue our work with passion and dedication," said Limayem. "While securing funding is essential for sustaining research, our primary goal is to channel these resources into meaningful inventions and original contributions that serve our community. We move beyond academic publications to develop real-world, tangible solutions. Through persistence and patented creativity, we focus on developing real products that address true needs, with thoughtful commercialization to expand their positive reach and translate it into practical benefits for society." 

In addition to teaching and building her team, Limayem plans to continue her work refining safe nanotherapeutics primarily with the synergistic zinc oxide and chitosan to combat drug-resistant bacteria and emerging microbial pathogens, while collaborating with other institutions to further investigate the gastrointestinal (GIT) microbiota, identifying beneficial microbes through next-generation sequencing and AI global trends to enhance precision medicine.  

Furthermore, Limayem and her team of students and collaborators continue their work to ensure renewable resource outcomes, with a focus on water safety and security, serving public health and fostering economic growth. 

"ASEMFL recognizes the importance of new investigators whose work shows great promise in addressing critical issues towards ensuring the growth and success in its mission," says Angela Laird, the ASEMFL secretary and a Distinguished University Professor at Florida International University. "These Rising Stars have made significant contributions to science, engineering and medicine and are on the cusp of consideration for full membership in ASEMFL. Through the Rising Stars program, ASEMFL hopes to engage with mid-career researchers more actively throughout the State of Florida, anticipating that these individuals will provide valuable insight for how to grow the society and ensure its continued relevance for current and future generations."