Wanhee Im | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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

Huanhuan Song | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Huanhuan Song | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Fujian Medical University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Song’s research is reshaping our understanding of neuroimmune interactions. By leveraging translocator protein (TSPO)-targeted live imaging and advanced cellular models, she has revolutionized the study of microglial metabolism. Her work has broad implications, not only for MS but also for Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurodegenerative conditions where lipid metabolism and neuroinflammation play critical roles. Her findings have been widely cited in immunology and neuroscience literature, reflecting their significance in the field. She has presented at international immunology conferences, contributing valuable insights into novel therapeutic strategies for neuroimmune diseases.

📚 Academic Citations and Recognition

Her research findings have gained international recognition, with citations in high-impact journals focusing on immunology, neuroscience, and lipid metabolism. She actively participates in scientific conferences and symposia, sharing her insights with the global scientific community and collaborating with fellow researchers to drive progress in neuroimmune therapeutics.

🛠️ Technical Skills

Dr. Song possesses a diverse set of technical skills, including molecular and cellular immunology, animal modeling (EAE, MS models), live imaging techniques for immune responses, flow cytometry, transcriptomic analysis, CRISPR-based gene editing, lipidomics, and metabolomics in neurodegeneration research. These skills have allowed her to conduct high-impact research that bridges fundamental science with translational applications.

🎓 Teaching and Mentorship

As part of her academic role, Dr. Song is actively involved in mentoring undergraduate and master’s students in immunological techniques and experimental neuroscience. Her guidance has helped shape young researchers, fostering innovation in the field of neuroimmunology. She is dedicated to training the next generation of scientists and encouraging interdisciplinary research approaches.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Song is committed to advancing precision medicine in neuroinflammation, with future work aimed at developing novel drug interventions targeting lipid metabolism pathways. By translating fundamental research into clinical applications, she envisions creating more effective and personalized treatments for patients suffering from MS and other chronic neuroinflammatory conditions. Her pioneering research on CYP7B1 is set to leave a lasting impact on immunotherapy and neuropharmacology, making her a trailblazer in the intersection of lipid metabolism and neuroimmune regulation. With her continued contributions, Dr. Song is shaping the future of neuroinflammation research and therapeutic development.

📖Notable Publications

CYP7B1 Deficiency Impairs Myeloid Cell Activation in Autoimmune Disease of the Central Nervous System
Authors: Huanhuan Song, Aowei Lv, Zhibao Zhu, Runyun Li, Qiuping Zhao, Xintong Yu, Junyi Jiang, Xiang Lin, Cunjin Zhang, Rui Li, et al.
Journal: PNAS Nexus
Year: 2024

Tanshinone IIA Alleviates Brain Damage in a Mouse Model of Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder by Inducing Neutrophil Apoptosis
Authors: Ye Gong, Ya-ling Zhang, Zhen Wang, Huanhuan Song, Yuan-chu Liu, Aowei Lv, Li-li Tian, Wen-li Zhu, Ying Fu, Xiao-li Ding, et al.
Journal: Journal of Neuroinflammation
Year: 2020

Ibrahim Al-Odat | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ibrahim Al-Odat | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Jadara University, Jordan

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Ibrahim A. Al-Odat began his academic journey with a B.Sc. in Applied Biological Science from the Jordan University of Science and Technology in 1999. His passion for molecular biology led him to pursue a M.Sc. in Medicine (Reproductive Health Science and Human Genetics) at the University of Sydney, completing it in 2007. He culminated his formal education with a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences/Molecular Biology from the University of Technology Sydney in 2016, focusing on molecular mechanisms in biomedical sciences.

💼 Professional Endeavors

He has a diverse professional background, starting as a Technical Officer at the NSW Health Department (2004-2011) in Sydney, where he honed his technical skills. He then served as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Technology Sydney from 2012 to 2017, where he contributed to various Biochemistry and pathophysiology courses. Since 2018, He has been an Assistant Professor of Molecular Biology at Jadara University in Irbid, Jordan, where he has taken an active role in teaching and research.

🧪 Contributions and Research Focus

His research primarily focuses on molecular biology and biomedical sciences. His notable research includes studying the effects of maternal cigarette smoke exposure on offspring’s health, particularly in kidney development and functionality. He has also explored the diagnostic potential of Bone Morphogenetic Protein 7 (BMP7) in renal injury and dysfunction. His research contributions are widely published and recognized in academic circles.

🌍 Impact and Influence

His work has significant implications in understanding maternal health and offspring development, particularly in the context of environmental stressors like cigarette smoke. His research has influenced the biomedical community and provided insights into potential diagnostic and therapeutic avenues for kidney-related conditions.

📚 Academic Cites

He scholarly work has garnered citations, emphasizing his contributions to the field of molecular biology and biomedical sciences. Notably, his research on maternal cigarette smoke and offspring health has been cited in numerous academic publications, showcasing its relevance and influence.

🛠️ Technical Skills

He possesses extensive technical expertise in various molecular biology techniques, including RNA, DNA, and protein extraction, Western blotting, real-time PCR, and immunohistochemistry staining. His proficiency in laboratory animal handling and statistical analysis further complements his research capabilities.

📖 Teaching Experience

He has taught a wide array of courses at Jadara University, ranging from General Biology and Molecular Biology to Clinical Biochemistry and Diagnostic Genetics. His hands-on approach extends to practical courses, where he guides students in laboratory techniques. At UTS, he contributed to courses like Pathophysiology, Pharmacology, and Analytical Biochemistry.

🏛️ Legacy and Future Contributions

His legacy lies in his commitment to education and research, fostering a new generation of scientists. His future contributions are poised to expand into deeper explorations of molecular diagnostics and therapeutic strategies, with a continued focus on maternal health and offspring development. His involvement in university committees highlights his dedication to academic governance and quality assurance.

📖Notable Publications