Fei Zhu | Chemical Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fei Zhu | Chemical Biology | Best Researcher Award

Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fei Zhu’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in pharmaceutical sciences and biomedical research. His early studies focused on stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, and biomaterials, laying the groundwork for his future contributions to pluripotent stem cell research and tumor immunotherapy. With a deep passion for scientific discovery, he explored innovative methodologies for cell reprogramming and tissue engineering, positioning himself as a leading expert in the field.

🏛 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Zhu is currently an Associate Professor at the Academy of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, China. His professional career is dedicated to advancing cell-based therapies and personalized medicine. He has played a pivotal role in the development of functional biomaterials that enhance cell reprogramming and organoid-based drug evaluation. His expertise extends to designing novel cancer vaccines derived from stem cell membranes, aimed at multi-cancer prevention. Through his academic and research leadership, he has fostered interdisciplinary collaborations, bridging the gap between biomedical engineering and clinical applications.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Zhu’s research revolves around four key areas. His work in cell reprogramming has led to the development of highly efficient techniques using transcription factor cocktails and biomaterial-based approaches. In pluripotent stem cell-based therapy, his advancements in islet organoid development offer new possibilities for diabetes treatment. His contributions to tumor organoid-based drug evaluation have enabled the construction of patient-derived tumor organoids, allowing for precise assessments of drug efficacy, resistance, and safety.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Zhu’s research is making a significant impact in regenerative medicine and cancer therapy. His innovations in stem cell technology and biomaterials have profound implications for disease modeling, drug screening, and personalized treatment strategies. His groundbreaking publications in high-impact journals such as Nature Biomedical Engineering, Advanced Materials, and Stem Cell Reports have positioned him as a thought leader in the scientific community, influencing both academic research and potential clinical applications.

📖 Academic Citations and Recognition

Dr. Zhu’s impactful research has earned widespread recognition in leading scientific journals and international forums. His work has been cited extensively in studies related to stem cell therapy, biomaterials, and cancer immunotherapy. His insights into cell reprogramming and tumor organoids continue to shape modern biomedical sciences, contributing to the advancement of precision medicine.

🛠 Technical Skills and Expertise

Dr. Zhu possesses a diverse skill set in biomedical research, including expertise in stem cell differentiation and reprogramming, advanced biomaterial design for therapeutic applications, organoid development and drug screening, nanotechnology-based cancer immunotherapy, and high-throughput screening techniques for drug discovery. His technical expertise enables him to drive innovation in cell-based therapies and regenerative medicine.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

As a dedicated educator, Dr. Zhu is committed to mentoring the next generation of researchers. He actively trains students and young scientists in stem cell engineering, regenerative medicine, and tumor immunotherapy. His guidance helps students develop innovative thinking, research skills, and translational expertise, preparing them for careers in academia and industry.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Zhu’s work is paving the way for transformative advancements in medicine. His future research aims to enhance tumor organoid technology for better drug screening, develop next-generation cancer immunotherapies, improve biomaterial-based approaches for cell therapy, and translate laboratory discoveries into clinical applications for personalized medicine. With his dedication to scientific innovation, Dr. Zhu continues to push the boundaries of biomedical research, shaping the future of cell-based therapies and cancer treatment. His work holds immense promise for improving patient care and advancing global healthcare solutions.

📖Notable Publications

  • Cell-Reprogramming-Inspired Dynamically Responsive Hydrogel Boosts the Induction of Pluripotency via Phase-Separated Biomolecular Condensates

    • Authors: Fei Zhu, Nan Yan, X. Lu, J. Xu, H. Gu, J. Liang, K. Cheng, X. Wang, X. Ma, N. Ma, et al.

    • Journal: Advanced Materials

    • Year: 2024

  • Potent prophylactic cancer vaccines harnessing surface antigens shared by tumour cells and induced pluripotent stem cells

    • Authors: Nan Li, Hao Qin, Fei Zhu, Hao Ding, Yang Chen, Yixuan Lin, Ronghui Deng, Tianyu Ma, Yuanyuan Lv, Changhao Xiong, et al.

    • Journal: Nature Biomedical Engineering

    • Year: 2024

  • Nanoparticle-based combination therapy enhances fulvestrant efficacy and overcomes tumor resistance in ER-positive breast cancer (Preprint)

    • Authors: Bozhao Li, Feilong Qi, Fei Zhu, Zefang Lu, Meiqi Wang, Tianjiao Chu, Suying Wu, Jingyan Wei, Zhenchuan Song, Saraswati Sukumar, et al.

    • Journal: Preprint

    • Year: 2024

  • Supplementary Data from Nanoparticle-based combination therapy enhances fulvestrant efficacy and overcomes tumor resistance in ER-positive breast cancer (Preprint)

    • Authors: Bozhao Li, Feilong Qi, Fei Zhu, Zefang Lu, Meiqi Wang, Tianjiao Chu, Suying Wu, Jingyan Wei, Zhenchuan Song, Saraswati Sukumar, et al.

    • Journal: Preprint

    • Year: 2024

 

Mingguo Zhou | Chemical Biology | Outstanding Scientist Award

Prof. Mingguo Zhou | Chemical Biology | Outstanding Scientist Award

Nanjing Agricultural University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Prof. Mingguo Zhou’s academic journey began at Nanjing Agricultural University (NAU), where he completed his Bachelor’s degree in Plant Protection. He quickly advanced to an academic career, starting as an Assistant for teaching and research in Plant Pathology at NAU. Over the following years, he progressed to Lecturer and then Associate Professor in the same department. His outstanding academic trajectory led him to a full Professorship, where he specialized in Plant Pathology and Pesticide Science. He currently holds the position of Outstanding Professor at NAU.

Professional Endeavors 🏆

Prof. Zhou’s dedication to advancing knowledge in Plant Pathology took him beyond the academic confines of NAU. He worked on several significant international collaborations, including postdoctoral research at prestigious institutions such as the University of Bristol (UK), University of Bari (Italy), and Michigan State University (USA), amongst others. His academic appointments and research stints globally reflect his commitment to international scientific cooperation and the advancement of plant protection. Notably, he chaired the Plant Disease Chemical Control Committee of the Chinese Society for Plant Pathology and has led various committees, including the Fungicide Committee of the China Association of Pesticide Development and Application.

Contributions and Research Focus 🌱

Prof. Zhou’s research focuses on the intersection of plant pathology and pesticide science, with an emphasis on sustainable agricultural practices and disease management strategies. His expertise has contributed to significant advancements in pesticide resistance management and the chemical control of plant diseases. His leadership in plant pathology societies and as a member of government advisory groups has directly influenced agricultural policies. Over his career, he has fostered collaborations that resulted in numerous advancements in both theoretical and practical aspects of plant disease management.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Prof. Zhou’s influence extends far beyond the academic and scientific community. His participation in high-level advisory roles has shaped national agricultural strategies. He is widely recognized as a leading authority in plant pathology, not only in China but globally. His research has significantly impacted agricultural practices, disease control methods, and pesticide management strategies worldwide, promoting the health and sustainability of global crop systems.

Academic Cites 📚

Throughout his career, Prof. Zhou’s work has received numerous citations, underscoring the importance and relevance of his research. His influence in the field is reflected in his role as an editor for several scientific journals and his advisory positions in scientific committees. His numerous honors, including national awards and recognition for contributions to science and technology, highlight his impactful academic legacy. His continued involvement in both research and education ensures his contributions will shape the field for many years to come.

Technical Skills 🛠️

Prof. Zhou has extensive technical expertise in plant pathology, particularly in the areas of pesticide resistance, chemical control of plant diseases, and fungicide development. His in-depth knowledge of plant protection technologies has been fundamental in advancing both research and practical applications in agricultural pest management. His collaborative efforts with international researchers have further expanded his technical proficiency and contributed to the development of innovative solutions for pest control.

Teaching Experience 👨‍🏫

Prof. Zhou has made significant contributions to the education and mentorship of students at Nanjing Agricultural University, where he has guided numerous graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and PhD candidates in their academic journeys. His role as a National Excellent Key Teacher and his recognition for excellence in teaching highlight his dedication to fostering the next generation of plant pathologists. His ability to impart knowledge and encourage critical thinking has helped shape the careers of many students who have gone on to make their own contributions in the field.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Prof. Zhou’s legacy is not just in the accolades he has received but in the lasting impact of his research and teaching. He has mentored and inspired a new generation of researchers, and his leadership in plant pathology and pesticide science has advanced the discipline. Looking ahead, Prof. Zhou is focused on continuing his research into sustainable pest management solutions and influencing policies that promote environmentally friendly agricultural practices. His ongoing work ensures that future agricultural systems will be more resilient, sustainable, and capable of addressing the challenges posed by global climate change and pesticide resistance.

Honors and Awards 🏅

Prof. Zhou has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to science with numerous prestigious awards, including the Special Subsidy from the State Council of China, the National Excellent Key Teacher award, and several Science and Technology Awards from the State Council and Ministry of Education. His work continues to be celebrated for its depth, innovation, and global significance in plant pathology and pesticide science.

📖Notable Publications

 

Fei Yao | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Fei Yao | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Fei Yao’s journey in academia began with a strong foundation in biochemistry and medical sciences. With a keen interest in cancer biology, Prof. Yao pursued higher education in oncology, eventually earning a medical degree and further advancing into postdoctoral research. This rigorous academic training laid the groundwork for future contributions to cancer research.

🏥 Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as a Professor of Oncology at The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, China, and The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Prof. Yao has seamlessly integrated clinical expertise with research innovations. As a medical doctor and postdoctoral fellow, Prof. Yao also mentors master’s students, shaping the next generation of researchers in oncology and biochemistry.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Yao’s research primarily focuses on tumor microenvironment mechanisms and the development of clinical drugs for cancer treatment. By leading multiple prestigious research projects funded by:

  • 🏅 National Natural Science Foundation of China
  • 🏅 China Postdoctoral Science Foundation
  • 🏅 Guangxi Natural Science Foundation

Prof. Yao has significantly contributed to understanding how cancer cells interact with their surroundings, paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies.

📚 Impact and Influence

Prof. Yao has published multiple SCI-indexed research papers, adding valuable insights to the field of oncology and biochemistry. These studies have not only been widely cited but have also influenced clinical applications and drug development in cancer research.

📖 Academic Citations & Recognition

With a robust research portfolio, Prof. Yao’s work has been cited extensively in international journals, reinforcing its scientific impact. These contributions continue to shape the landscape of cancer treatment and personalized medicine.

🛠️ Technical Skills & Expertise

Prof. Yao possesses expertise in various advanced biochemical and clinical research techniques, including:
✔️ Tumor Microenvironment Analysis
✔️ Cell Culture & Molecular Biology Techniques
✔️ Targeted Drug Development for Cancer
✔️ Clinical Trials & Experimental Therapies
✔️ Biostatistical Analysis & Research Methodologies

🎓 Teaching and Mentorship

As a Master’s Supervisor, Prof. Yao plays a crucial role in mentoring graduate students, guiding them in research methodologies, experimental designs, and thesis development. Many students have benefited from this mentorship, progressing in their careers as medical researchers and clinicians.

🌎 Legacy and Future Contributions

With a deep commitment to advancing cancer research, Prof. Yao aims to:
🔹 Continue exploring innovative treatments targeting the tumor microenvironment.
🔹 Bridge the gap between traditional Chinese medicine and modern oncology.
🔹 Develop next-generation clinical drugs to improve patient outcomes.
🔹 Inspire young researchers to contribute meaningfully to biochemistry and oncology.

🏆 Conclusion

Prof. Fei Yao’s dedication to biochemistry and cancer research has established a remarkable legacy in oncology, drug development, and clinical applications. As an esteemed professor, researcher, and mentor, Prof. Yao’s contributions will continue to impact the field for years to come.

📖Notable Publications

Hyperacute rejection-engineered oncolytic virus for interventional clinical trial in refractory cancer patients

Authors: L. Zhong, L. Gan, B. Wang, W. Shi, Y. Zhao

Journal: Cell

Year: 2025

Yaoyao Li | Bioinformatics | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yaoyao Li | Bioinformatics | Best Researcher Award

Xidian University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Yaoyao Li, Ph.D., began her academic journey at Xidian University, where she earned her Ph.D. in Computer Science and Technology in June 2020. During her doctoral studies, she focused on computational techniques for analyzing biomolecular data, particularly DNA genome sequences. Her early academic pursuits were marked by a strong foundation in machine learning algorithms, probability theory, and statistical methods applied to bioinformatics. Her work aimed to detect and identify variant sites or fragments within DNA, uncovering patterns with potential biological functions. This laid the groundwork for her future contributions to computational bioinformatics and genomic research.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Following the completion of her Ph.D., Dr. Li worked at Alibaba Group from July 2020 to June 2022. Here, she was responsible for researching user growth algorithms for business-to-business (B2B) applications. Her work contributed to key innovations in user engagement, earning her the Core Innovation Technology Award. This professional experience allowed her to bridge the gap between theoretical research and real-world applications. After her tenure at Alibaba, she continued her academic journey by completing postdoctoral research at Xidian University in June 2024, solidifying her expertise in computational techniques and bioinformatics.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Li's research is at the intersection of machine learning, computer vision, computational bioinformatics, and cancer genome data mining. Her primary focus is on analyzing biomolecular data to reveal biological insights hidden within DNA sequences. She employs comprehensive machine learning algorithms and probabilistic methods to detect variant sites or identify DNA fragments, helping to uncover biological patterns that may play a role in diseases such as cancer. Dr. Li is particularly passionate about integrating statistical tests with advanced machine learning models to improve accuracy in genome sequence prediction.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Li's work has had a significant impact on the field of bioinformatics and genomic research. By developing algorithms that can detect variant sites in the DNA genome, her contributions are pivotal in understanding complex genetic diseases, especially cancer. Her research also aids in the development of precision medicine, where targeted therapies can be crafted based on an individual’s genetic makeup. The practical implications of her research extend to biotechnology companies, healthcare providers, and academic institutions focused on genomics.

In addition to her research, Dr. Li's efforts to contribute to the academic community are reflected in her involvement with prestigious journals such as "Digital Signal Processing", "IEEE/ACM Transactions on Computational Biology and Bioinformatics", and "Biomedical Optics Express". Her papers have been widely cited, making her a respected voice in the fields of computational biology and bioinformatics.

Academic Cites and Recognition 📚

Dr. Li’s research has been widely recognized within the academic community. Her contributions to bioinformatics and computational techniques have been cited in major international journals, reinforcing her reputation as a leader in the field. Her publications in well-respected journals, such as IEEE/ACM Transactions on Computational Biology and Biomedical Optics Express, have garnered attention for their innovative approaches to cancer genome data mining and DNA sequence analysis. These citations are a testament to her academic influence and the relevance of her work to both fundamental and applied science.

Technical Skills 🛠️

Dr. Li’s expertise spans several domains of computational science, particularly in the application of machine learning algorithms, probability theory, and statistical methods. She is highly skilled in using these techniques to detect variant sites, identify fragments in DNA genomes, and mine cancer genomic data. Her proficiency with computer vision methods further strengthens her research capabilities, allowing her to work with complex biological data sets. Dr. Li is also adept at leveraging sequence prediction models to enhance the accuracy of her findings.

Teaching Experience 👩‍🏫

Dr. Li has shared her knowledge and expertise through her involvement in teaching and mentoring students. While her focus has been on cutting-edge research, she has also contributed to the academic growth of her students, guiding them through complex topics in bioinformatics, machine learning, and computational biology. Her ability to simplify intricate scientific concepts has made her a respected mentor, and she continues to inspire the next generation of researchers in her field.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Dr. Li's legacy is one of blending advanced computational techniques with real-world biomedical applications. Her work has already made a substantial impact in the field of genomic research, particularly in cancer genomics, and has the potential to revolutionize how diseases are diagnosed and treated. Looking to the future, she aims to further expand the applications of machine learning in genomic research and bioinformatics, exploring new methods for early detection of genetic diseases. She is also committed to advancing the precision medicine field, ensuring that personalized healthcare strategies are built on robust genomic data analysis.

Final Thoughts 🌟

Dr. Yaoyao Li is a trailblazer in computational bioinformatics, and her research has already had a profound impact on the scientific community. With her expertise in machine learning, bioinformatics, and cancer genomics, she is poised to continue making significant contributions that will not only advance academic knowledge but also improve health outcomes through precision medicine. Her journey is a testament to the power of combining computational technology with biological science to solve some of the most pressing challenges in modern healthcare.

📖Notable Publications

CNV_MCD: Detection of copy number variations based on minimum covariance determinant using next-generation sequencing data

Authors: Li, Y., Yang, F., Xie, K.
Journal: Digital Signal Processing: A Review Journal
Year: 2024

Intelligent scoring system based on dynamic optical breast imaging for early detection of breast cancer

Authors: Li, Y., Zhang, Y., Yu, Q., He, C., Yuan, X.
Journal: Biomedical Optics Express
Year: 2024

CONDEL: Detecting Copy Number Variation and Genotyping Deletion Zygosity from Single Tumor Samples Using Sequence Data

Authors: Yuan, X., Bai, J., Zhang, J., Li, Y., Gao, M.
Journal: IEEE/ACM Transactions on Computational Biology and Bioinformatics
Year: 2020

DpGMM: A Dirichlet Process Gaussian Mixture Model for Copy Number Variation Detection in Low-Coverage Whole-Genome Sequencing Data

Authors: Li, Y., Zhang, J., Yuan, X., Li, J.
Journal: IEEE Access
Year: 2020

BagGMM: Calling copy number variation by bagging multiple Gaussian mixture models from tumor and matched normal next-generation sequencing data

Authors: Li, Y., Zhang, J., Yuan, X.
Journal: Digital Signal Processing: A Review Journal
Year: 2019

SM-RCNV: A statistical method to detect recurrent copy number variations in sequenced samples

Authors: Li, Y., Yuan, X., Zhang, J., Bai, J., Jiang, S.
Journal: Genes and Genomics
Year: 2019

Md Shahriar A. Hossain | Biosensing | Best Researcher Award -1623

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Md Shahriar A. Hossain | Nanotechnology | Best Researcher Award

The University of Queensland, Australia

👨‍🎓Profiles

🌟 Early Academic Pursuits

He began his academic journey with a focus on superconducting and functional materials. During his PhD at the University of Wollongong, he contributed 100% of his time to research, laying the foundation for a career devoted to advancing material sciences. This period was marked by his initial exploration into superconductivity and magnetic materials, which would become central themes in his later work.

🚀 Professional Endeavors

His professional trajectory spans prestigious roles across the globe. His postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Geneva, Switzerland, and the University of Wollongong, Australia, were pivotal in refining his expertise in superconductivity and magnetic materials. As a Senior Research Fellow and ARC DECRA recipient, he shifted focus to applied materials for energy, environment, and biomedical applications. Since joining the University of Queensland (UQ) as a Senior Lecturer and later Associate Professor, he has balanced research, teaching, and administrative responsibilities, contributing to UQ's reputation for innovation.

🧪 Research Focus and Contributions

Dr. Hossain has established a leading research group at UQ, excelling in: Applied superconductivity. Nano-biomaterials for biosensing and manufacturing. Functional mesoporous materials for energy and medical applications. He has supervised 28 Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students over the past decade, including 19 graduates, with many achieving prominent global positions. His mentorship has yielded exemplary results, such as a Dean’s Award for one of his PhD supervisees.

🌍 Impact and Influence

His research leadership has significantly impacted energy and biomedical applications, elevating UQ's Mechanical and Mining Engineering School. His global collaborations include partnerships with institutes in Japan, France, Germany, and the USA, promoting cross-border knowledge exchange. His influence extends to advisory and board memberships in institutions like the Australian ITER Forum and the National Superconductivity Center in Turkey.

📈 Academic Citations and Achievements

Dr. Hossain has published 200 Science Citation Index (SCI) articles, with over 14,000 citations and an impressive h-index of 63. More than 80% of these works are featured in Q1 journals with impact factors between 3.0 and 25.0. His publication portfolio includes: A scholarly book and book chapter. Two patents. Numerous articles with significant contributions to material sciences.

🛠️ Technical Skills

His technical proficiencies encompass:  Superconducting and magnetic material characterization. Advanced biosensing techniques. Device fabrication for environmental and energy applications.

🎓 Teaching Experience and Mentorship

Balancing teaching and research, Dr. Hossain dedicates 40% of his time to teaching undergraduate and postgraduate courses at UQ. His mentorship of HDR students emphasizes innovative thinking, fostering the development of future scientists and industry leaders.

🏆 Awards and Recognition

His accolades reflect his global stature, including: 2023 Best Presenter Award, Materials Oceania Conference, Japan. 2020 UQ EAIT Faculty Innovation Award. 2015 Vice Chancellor’s Award in Research Excellence, University of Wollongong. 2015 Visiting Scientist at MIT, USA.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Hossain aims to expand his research on sustainable energy solutions and advanced materials for biomedical applications. His commitment to mentorship and academic excellence ensures a lasting impact on material sciences and beyond. With a focus on innovation, he continues to shape the academic landscape while inspiring the next generation of researchers.

📖Notable Publications

A plasmonic mesoporous gold-based SERS-microfluidic platform for the detection of infectious diseases
Authors: Masud, M.K., Natsuhara, D., Dai, Y., Shibata, T., Yamauchi, Y.
Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry C
Year: 2024

Mesoporous Gold: Substrate-Dependent Growth Dynamics, Strain Accumulation, and Electrocatalytic Activity for Biosensing
Authors: Park, H., Masud, M.K., Ashok, A., Yamauchi, Y., Kaneti, Y.V.
Journal: Small
Year: 2024

Bimetallic metal-organic framework-derived porous one-dimensional carbon materials for electrochemical sensing of dopamine
Authors: Chowdhury, S., Nugraha, A.S., O'May, R., Masud, M.K., Kaneti, Y.V.
Journal: Chemical Engineering Journal
Year: 2024

Selection of Fe as a barrier for manufacturing low-cost MgB2 multifilament wires – Advanced microscopy study between Fe and B reaction
Authors: Liang, H., Patel, D., Wang, Z., Yamauchi, Y., Hossain, M.S.A.
Journal: Journal of Magnesium and Alloys
Year: 2024

A Mesoporous Gold Sensor Unveils Phospho PD-L1 in Extracellular Vesicles as a Proxy for PD-L1 Expression in Lung Cancer Tissue
Authors: Shanmugasundaram, K.B., Ahmed, E., Miao, X., Wuethrich, A., Trau, M.
Journal: ACS Sensors
Year: 2024

Giant piezoresponse in nanoporous (Ba,Ca)(Ti,Zr)O3 thin film
Authors: Billah, M., Terasawa, Y., Masud, M.K., Hossain, M.S.A., Yamauchi, Y.
Journal: Chemical Science
Year: 2024

A mesoporous gold biosensor to investigate immune checkpoint protein heterogeneity in single lung cancer cells
Authors: Ahmed, E., Masud, M.K., Komatineni, P., Sina, A.A.I., Trau, M.
Journal: Biosensors and Bioelectronics
Year: 2024