Dr. Mehvish Saleem is a seasoned Senior Research Scientist with over 16 years of expertise in microbiology, focusing on bacterial pathogenesis, viral diagnostics, antimicrobial resistance, and molecular epidemiology. She currently leads the State-Level Viral Research & Diagnostic Laboratory at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, overseeing advanced diagnostic and surveillance programs for pathogens of public health significance. Holding a PhD in Microbiology, she is an active member of ESCMID and ASM, a peer reviewer for multiple scientific journals, and a recipient of prestigious accolades including the ESCMID Fellowship and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. Saleem’s work integrates research excellence with public health impact, marked by numerous publications and international collaborations.