Yi Sun | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award China

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yi Sun | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

China Pharmaceutical University China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Yi Sun embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from Nanjing Medical University (2006–2010), where she laid the foundation for her future work in pharmaceutical sciences. Her academic rigor led her to pursue a Ph.D. in Pharmacology at the prestigious Peking University (2010–2016), where she cultivated a strong grounding in pharmacological mechanisms and experimental therapeutics. These formative years solidified her dedication to neuropharmacology and translational medicine.

🏛️ Professional Endeavors

Dr. Sun’s academic career began in 2016 as a Lecturer at China Pharmaceutical University, where she steadily rose through the ranks. In 2024, she was appointed both as an Associate Professor and a Xingyao Associate Researcher at the same institution, reflecting her dual impact in both research and education. Her work spans across pharmacological research, drug discovery, and neurodegenerative disease mechanisms, with a continual commitment to institutional growth and student mentorship.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Sun’s core research revolves around the Keap1-Nrf2 signaling pathway, especially in relation to Alzheimer’s disease, type 2 diabetes, and cognitive dysfunction. She has successfully led multiple grants, including a National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) project (81703520) focusing on the role of Nrf2 in Alzheimer’s pathogenesis, and a Key R&D Program of Ningxia grant (2019BFG02017) on sulfonamide lead compounds for cognitive disorders. Her current ongoing project investigates the antidepressant mechanisms of Keap1-Nrf2 protein interaction inhibitors. This demonstrates her keen interest in translational medicine, targeting neurological and metabolic dysfunctions.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Dr. Sun has made notable contributions to both scientific research and educational innovation. Her awards, such as the Special Prize in the National College Pharmacy Teaching Competitions and the First Prize in multiple ideological and political teaching contests, mark her as a leader in pedagogical innovation. Her research not only advances pharmacological science but also addresses pressing societal health challenges like aging-related cognitive decline.

📚 Academic Citations & Editorial Contributions

While specific citation metrics aren’t listed, Dr. Sun’s work has been recognized by national funding bodies and institutional stakeholders. Her editorial board roles in textbooks such as “Physiological Pharmacology” and “Pharmacology Experiment”, as well as her involvement with the journal Central South Pharmacy as a young editor, highlight her influence in shaping academic literature and mentoring the next generation of scientists.

🛠️ Technical Skills & Research Methods

Dr. Sun possesses comprehensive expertise in pharmacodynamic modeling, in vivo animal studies, cognitive function assays, and drug target interaction studies. Her work consistently employs molecular pharmacology techniques and biochemical pathway analyses, particularly targeting the Keap1-Nrf2 interaction. These technical proficiencies have allowed her to drive forward both mechanistic and applied pharmacological research.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Dr. Sun’s teaching portfolio is both diverse and decorated. She has received accolades including the “Teaching Newcomer Award” and the Best Style Award from China Pharmaceutical University. Her projects such as “Pharmacology Progress” and the “Pharmacology Course Ideological and Political Teaching Exploration” demonstrate a commitment to educational reform and the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) model. Additionally, she has been actively involved in textbook editing, MOOC development, and online course delivery, reflecting her adaptability in both traditional and modern teaching platforms.

🧑‍🎓 Student Mentorship and Development

Her mentorship record includes provincial-level projects under the College Students Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program, showcasing her role in fostering student-led research. Notably, she guided a project on RIPK1 inhibitors and cognitive dysfunction, aligning with her research interests and encouraging translational thinking among students.

🧬 Academic and Scientific Community Engagement

Dr. Sun plays a vital role in China’s academic pharmacological landscape. She serves as a Youth Committee Member of the Cardiovascular and Renal Pharmacology Committees of the Chinese Pharmacological Society, and is also affiliated with the Lingzhi Professional Committee of the Chinese Association of Traditional Chinese Medicine. These affiliations emphasize her interdisciplinary approach to medicine, integrating Western and traditional Chinese pharmaceutical sciences.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Sun’s work bridges molecular pharmacology, clinical relevance, and teaching innovation. Her current research and teaching reforms position her as a forward-looking scholar, aiming to integrate scientific discovery with educational excellence. Her ongoing and future contributions are expected to advance therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative and metabolic diseases, and shape the next wave of pharmacology education in China and beyond.

📖Notable Publications

Design of anti-depressant phosphodiester amino acidic Keap1-Nrf2 protein-protein interaction inhibitors
Authors: Yi Sun*, Jue Wang*, Wenxin Ding*, Qingqing Qin*, Rui Wang, Ruizhi Yu, Jianyu Yan, Ruilin Hou, Guodong Liu, Xiangming Cai, Zhuo Qu, Wannian Zhang, Jianqiang Yu, Chengguo Xing, Chunlin Zhuang#
Journal: Redox Biology
Year: 2025

A potent phosphodiester Keap1-Nrf2 protein-protein interaction inhibitor as the efficient treatment of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Yi Sun*, Lijuan Xu*, Dongpeng Zheng, Jue Wang, Guodong Liu, Zixin Mo, Chao Liu, Wannian Zhang, Jianqiang Yu, Chengguo Xing, Ling He#, Chunlin Zhuang#
Journal: Redox Biology
Year: 2023

Discovery of a trifluoromethoxy cyclopentanone benzothiazole receptor-interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1) inhibitor as the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Yi Sun*, Lijuan Xu*, Hongming Shao, Danni Quan, Zixin Mo, Jue Wang, Wannian Zhang, Jianqiang Yu, Chunlin Zhuang#, Ke Xu#
Journal: Journal of Medicinal Chemistry
Year: 2022

Adenosine A2A receptor antagonist SCH58261 improves the cognitive function in Alzheimer’s disease model mice through activation of Nrf2 via an autophagy-dependent pathway
Authors: Yi Sun*, Chao Liu*, Ling He#
Journal: Antioxidants & Redox Signaling
Year: 2024

Direct inhibition of Keap1-Nrf2 Protein-Protein interaction as a potential therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Yi Sun*, Jiaxuan Huang*, Yufei Chen, Hao Shang, Wannian Zhang, Jianqiang Yu, Ling He, Chengguo Xing, Chunlin Zhuang#
Journal: Bioorganic Chemistry
Year: 2020

 

Wanhee Im | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Wanhee Im | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Chungbuk National University, South Korea

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Wanhee Im began her academic journey deeply rooted in the study of lignocellulosic materials, which would go on to define her research direction. She earned her Ph.D. from the Department of Forest Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Seoul National University, one of South Korea’s premier institutions. Her doctoral thesis, titled “Preparation and characterization of carboxymethylated cellulose nanofibrils”, laid a strong foundation in cellulose chemistry, focusing on optimizing carboxymethylation processes, improving environmental sustainability through isopropanol recycling, and analyzing the physicochemical characteristics of CM-CNF (carboxymethylated cellulose nanofibrils). Under the mentorship of Prof. Hak Lae Lee, she honed critical analytical and technical research skills that would shape her future endeavors.

🧑‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Im has built an impressive professional trajectory, working across academia, industry, and research institutes. Currently serving as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Wood & Paper Science at Chungbuk National University, she leads projects focused on the functionalization of cellulose materials. Her career path includes pivotal roles such as Senior Researcher at Moorim P&P (2020–2024), where she developed high aspect ratio cellulose nanofibril powders. She also gained international research experience as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of British Columbia and a Visiting Researcher at FPInnovations in Canada, contributing to the development of high-strength paper for construction membrane applications. Her early career included R&D roles at Huvis Corp. and Seoul National University, where she contributed to polymer fiber development and chemical fiber modification.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Im’s research has consistently revolved around sustainable and functional cellulose-based materials. Her core expertise includes the chemical modification and characterization of cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) and the development of cellulose composites for advanced material applications. Notable contributions include innovations in eco-friendly carboxymethylation processes, recyclable solvent systems, and structural analysis of nanocellulose to tailor performance in fiber-based materials. At Moorim P&P and FPInnovations, she contributed to the commercial translation of nanocellulose technology, reinforcing her role as a bridge between research and industrial application.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Im’s work has significant implications in both academic and industrial domains, especially within sustainable material science and green polymer research. Her efforts in developing renewable, biodegradable alternatives to synthetic polymers resonate with global environmental initiatives. Her cross-continental collaborations in South Korea and Canada highlight her international research presence and technical leadership in cellulose science. Through her R&D leadership in industry, she influenced the commercialization of nanocellulose, proving her ability to translate laboratory innovation into market-ready technologies.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognition

While specific citation metrics are not listed in the CV, Dr. Im’s ongoing academic role, international postdoctoral experiences, and leadership in cellulose research suggest a growing academic footprint. Her contributions are recognized through collaborations with top institutions like Seoul National University and the University of British Columbia, and partnerships with research organizations like FPInnovations, underscoring her visibility and recognition in the cellulose and materials science communities.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Im is equipped with a broad array of technical proficiencies essential for advanced materials research: chemical modification techniques (carboxymethylation, CNF derivatization), polymer synthesis and analysis, fiber characterization (aspect ratio, strength properties), sustainable solvent systems and recycling methodologies, wet-laid fiber systems, and mechanical performance testing. These skills are integral to her success in both academic research and industrial product development.

👩‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

As an Assistant Professor at Chungbuk National University, Dr. Im actively engages in teaching and guiding undergraduate and graduate students. Her deep industrial experience provides students with practical, applied knowledge, while her research-led approach ensures students remain at the forefront of cellulose science. Her mentorship is shaped by global exposure, interdisciplinary understanding, and a commitment to sustainability.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Wanhee Im is poised to make lasting contributions to sustainable material science, with a continued focus on the development of functional, biodegradable, and high-performance cellulose-based materials. She envisions expanding the application of cellulose nanofibrils in energy, packaging, and construction sectors, aligning scientific innovation with environmental stewardship. As a rising academic leader, she is expected to influence curricula development, international collaboration, and next-generation eco-material research in South Korea and beyond.

📖Notable Publications

Effect of quaternization on the re-dispersion properties of cellulose nanofibrils after drying
Authors: Yoon-hyuck Choi, Soo-jeong Shin, Wanhee Im
Journal: Industrial Crops and Products
Year: 2025

Evaluation of print mottle of double coated paper by octave band filtering technique
Authors: Wanhee Im, Hye Jung Youn, Hak Lae Lee
Journal: BioResources
Year: 2024

Characteristics of polypropylene biocomposites: Effect of chemical treatment to produce cellulose microparticle
Authors: Jaegwan Moon, Jong Hoon Lee, Kiseob Gwak, Wanhee Im
Journal: Cellulose
Year: 2022

Wet strength improvement of nanofibrillated cellulose film using polyamideamine-epichlorohydrin (PAE) resin: The role of carboxyl contents
Authors: Wanhee Im, Shin Young Park, Jegon Lee, Simyub Yook, Hak Lae Lee, Hye Jung Youn
Journal: BioResources
Year: 2022

Dynamic water penetration behavior of top coating color and its effects on structure properties of double-coated layer
Authors: Wanhee Im, Hye Jung Youn, Hak Lae Lee
Journal: BioResources
Year: 2022

Liu Yakun | Biochemistry | Best Innovation Award

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Dr. Liu Yakun | Biochemistry | Best Innovation Award

The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Med, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Liu YaKun earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from the prestigious Hebei Medical University. From the beginning of her academic journey, she displayed a deep commitment to women’s health and a strong passion for advancing clinical knowledge in gynecology. Her formative years were shaped by rigorous medical education, clinical rotations, and early exposure to research in gynecologic oncology.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as the Associate Chief Physician at the Department of Gynecology, Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Dr. Liu also holds the significant position of Teaching Director. In this dual role, she combines her medical expertise with academic leadership, mentoring young doctors and medical students. Her clinical work is particularly focused on the diagnosis and surgical treatment of gynecologic tumors, and she is widely recognized for her meticulous approach and dedication to patient care.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Liu’s primary research area lies in gynecologic tumors, especially ovarian malignancies. In a groundbreaking study, she and her team became the first in the world to identify a rare germline BMP15 mutation as a causative factor in hereditary ovarian immature teratoma (OIT). Through a combination of cell line experiments and animal models, the pathogenicity of this mutation was verified, significantly advancing the understanding of the etiology of OIT. This work not only provided a crucial biomarker for genetic screening but also paved the way for future studies on ovarian malignant germ cell tumors.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Liu’s discovery has had a global impact, offering new insights into rare gynecologic cancers and influencing genetic screening protocols worldwide. Her pioneering research has opened new avenues in oncology, particularly in the identification and treatment of hereditary tumors in women, thus contributing significantly to precision medicine in gynecology.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognition

As a first author, Dr. Liu has published numerous papers in SCI-indexed and core medical journals, contributing high-impact literature to the field. She has led multiple research projects and was honored with the First Prize of the Hebei Medical Science and Technology Award, underscoring her scientific excellence and clinical relevance.

🧪 Technical Skills

Dr. Liu is proficient in a wide range of clinical and laboratory techniques, including tumor marker analysis, surgical oncology procedures, molecular biology experiments, and animal model development. Her work seamlessly integrates clinical practice with laboratory research, enabling her to translate bench-side findings into bedside applications.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

As the Teaching Director of her department, Dr. Liu is deeply involved in medical education and mentoring. She designs and delivers advanced training modules for residents and interns, oversees their clinical rotations, and encourages them to participate in research. Her teaching style is both inspiring and practical, often merging clinical scenarios with research discussions to foster comprehensive learning.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Liu YaKun’s legacy is being built on a foundation of clinical innovation, academic excellence, and compassionate care. She aims to further explore genetic mutations in gynecologic oncology, contribute to personalized medicine, and mentor the next generation of gynecologists. Her future work will likely continue to bridge the gap between clinical practice and genetic research, reinforcing her standing as a trailblazer in women’s health.

📖Notable Publications

New insights into the ferroptosis and immune infiltration in endometriosis: a bioinformatics-based analysis

Authors: Lusha Liu, Feifei Han, Naiyi Du, Yakun Liu, Aihong Duan, Shan Kang, Bin Li
Journal: Frontiers in Immunology
Year: 2025

Incorporating genotype information in a precise prediction model for platinum sensitivity in epithelial ovarian cancer

Authors: Nai-Yi Du, Yan Li, Hui Zheng, Ya-Kun Liu, Lu-Sha Liu, Jianbang Xie, Shan Kang
Journal: Frontiers in Oncology
Year: 2025

Stratifin (SFN) Regulates Cervical Cancer Cell Proliferation, Apoptosis, and Cytoskeletal Remodeling and Metastasis Progression Through LIMK2/Cofilin Signaling

Authors: Naiyi Du, Daojuan Li, Wei Zhao, Yakun Liu
Journal: Molecular Biotechnology
Year: 2024

The Diagnostic Significance of Combined Screening and Human Papillomavirus 16 and 18 Cycle Threshold Values for CIN2+ Cervical Lesions

Authors: Xue Bai, Ya-Kun Liu, Ya-Jing Jia, Dao-Juan Li, Nai-Yi Du
Journal: International Journal of Women’s Health
Year: 2024

Causal effects of genetically determined circulating metabolites on endometriosis: A Mendelian randomization study

Authors: Lusha Liu, Junping Yin, Yakun Liu, Bin Li, Shan Kang, Naiyi Du
Journal: Medicine
Year: 2024

LIMK1 promotes the development of cervical cancer by up-regulating the ROS/Src-FAK/cofilin signaling pathway

Authors: Yajing Jia, Yongping Li, Naiyi Du, Wei Zhao, Yakun Liu
Journal: Aging
Year: 2024