Qiang Qu | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Qiang Qu | Analytical Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Pfizer Research and Development, United States

👨‍🎓Profiles

🏛️ Early Academic Pursuits

Qiang Qu embarked on his academic journey with a strong foundation in biochemistry, earning a B.S. from Nankai University in 1995. He further honed his expertise by obtaining a Master’s degree in Genetics from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Institute of Genetics in 1998. His academic training provided him with a solid understanding of molecular biology, protein analysis, and genetic mechanisms—knowledge that would later fuel his career in biopharmaceutical research and clinical assay development.

🏢 Professional Endeavors

With over 14 years of experience in the biopharmaceutical industry, Qiang Qu has played pivotal roles in assay development, clinical research, and regulatory strategy. His career began at Pfizer in 2010 as a Senior Scientist in BioMedicine Design-PDM, where he focused on bioanalytical assay development for pharmacokinetics (PK) and immunogenicity assessments. In 2016, he joined EMD Serono as an Associate Director and Lab Head, where he managed a team of scientists, overseeing assay development for large molecule therapeutics. By 2020, he returned to Pfizer as the Biologics & Immunogenicity Clinical Assay Lead, a role in which he continues to make significant contributions to the development and regulatory approval of biologics.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Qiang Qu's research expertise spans PK, anti-drug antibody (ADA), and neutralizing antibody (NAb) assay development, particularly in clinical phases. He has led the development, validation, and transfer of bioanalytical assays using state-of-the-art technologies such as ELISA, MSD, Gyros, and Octet platforms. His contributions have been instrumental in ensuring the robustness, reliability, and regulatory compliance of assays used in drug development.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through his leadership roles, Qiang Qu has had a direct influence on clinical assay strategies, shaping the scientific direction of bioanalytical projects. His collaborations with CROs (Contract Research Organizations) and regulatory bodies have ensured the successful transfer and validation of critical assays supporting IND/BLA/NDA submissions. He has also mentored and managed teams, fostering the next generation of scientists in assay development.

📚 Academic Citations & Industry Recognition

His work in biologics and immunogenicity assays has been widely recognized within the scientific community. His contributions have been cited in regulatory filings, scientific reports, and industry presentations, strengthening the scientific foundation for immunogenicity risk assessment and bioanalytical methodologies in pharmaceutical research.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Qiang Qu possesses extensive technical expertise in:

  • Bioanalytical assay development (PK, ADA, and NAb)
  • Method validation and assay transfer under GLP/GCLP compliance
  • Technology platforms: ELISA, MSD, Gyros, Octet, and automation tools
  • Regulatory compliance and dossier preparation for clinical and regulatory submissions
  • CRO management, troubleshooting, and scientific oversight

🎓 Teaching & Mentorship Experience

Throughout his career, Qiang Qu has played a significant role in mentoring junior scientists and contractors, guiding them through assay development and regulatory expectations. His leadership at EMD Serono and Pfizer involved training and supervising 6-8 direct reports, helping them build expertise in bioanalytical methodologies. His mentorship extends beyond the lab, as he frequently participates in scientific discussions, internal knowledge-sharing sessions, and industry conferences.

🔥 Legacy and Future Contributions

Qiang Qu's contributions to bioanalytical sciences and immunogenicity assay development have already left a lasting impact on the field of biologics drug development. His expertise in method validation, regulatory submissions, and clinical strategy continues to shape the future of biopharmaceutical research. Moving forward, he is poised to further enhance assay innovation, improve immunogenicity risk assessment, and contribute to emerging technologies in biologics. His legacy is one of scientific excellence, leadership, and mentorship, ensuring that his influence extends well beyond his immediate projects.

Khairy Mohamed Abdalla Zoheir | Medicinal Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Khairy Mohamed Abdalla Zoheir | Medicinal Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

National Research Centre, Egypt

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Khairy Mohamed Abdalla Zoheir began his distinguished academic journey with a focus on genetics, cytology, and histology. He earned both his Ph.D. and MD from Cairo University, Egypt, in July 2005. His early research laid the foundation for his future work in animal genetics and molecular biology. In pursuit of advanced knowledge, Dr. Zoheir received a two-year postdoctoral fellowship at the College of Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China (2006–2008), where he deepened his expertise in cutting-edge genetic research.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Zoheir has built an illustrious career as a Professor of Animal Genetics at the Cell Biology Department, Biotechnology Research Institute, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt. His international experience includes a tenure as Assistant Professor of Pharmacology and Toxicology at the College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 2009 onward. Through these roles, he has contributed significantly to advancing the understanding of gene therapy and pharmacology, cementing his place as a leader in his field.

🧬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Zoheir’s research revolves around RNA interference (RNAi), overexpression studies, epigenetics, and gene therapy for diseases such as cancer. His groundbreaking work extends to novel therapeutic approaches, including the development of an internationally patented anti-inflammatory topical gel containing myrrh extract (2016). His research findings also highlight the role of lipoic acid in modulating cytokines, thereby influencing wound healing. With 92 publications in SCI and Scopus-indexed journals, his contributions have significantly impacted the fields of molecular biology and pharmacology.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Dr. Zoheir’s work has garnered widespread recognition in both national and international scientific communities. His research funding achievements and numerous conference presentations underscore his commitment to knowledge dissemination and collaboration. He has authored 85 publications in prestigious journals, influencing emerging fields such as epigenetics and gene therapy. Additionally, his editorial appointment with Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences showcases his leadership in shaping the future of molecular biology research.

📚 Academic Cites and Publications

With a total of 92 SCI-indexed and Scopus-indexed publications, Dr. Zoheir has made a lasting impact on the scientific world. His work continues to be cited by peers worldwide, further establishing his reputation as a prolific researcher in molecular genetics, RNAi, and gene therapy.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Zoheir is adept in advanced molecular biology techniques such as RNA interference, gene overexpression, and epigenetics. His expertise also includes pharmacological studies and the development of novel therapeutic formulations, exemplified by his internationally patented myrrh-based topical gel.

🧑‍🏫 Teaching Experience

Throughout his career, Dr. Zoheir has demonstrated a passion for education. He has mentored numerous students and researchers, fostering their growth in genetics and molecular biology. His teaching roles at the National Research Centre and King Saud University have helped train the next generation of scientists and researchers.

🌍 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Zoheir’s legacy is marked by his innovative research, impactful publications, and commitment to advancing molecular biology. As a pioneer in RNAi and gene therapy, he continues to inspire researchers worldwide. His future contributions are expected to further unravel the complexities of epigenetics and therapeutic interventions, leaving an indelible mark on the scientific community.

📖Notable Publications