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

 

Somboon Tanasupawat | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Somboon Tanasupawat | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Chulalongkorn University, Thailand

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Academic Background and Early Career

Prof. Dr. Somboon Tanasupawat has an extensive academic background in microbiology and agricultural chemistry. He obtained his Ph.D. in Agricultural Chemistry from Tokyo University of Agriculture, Japan, an M.Sc. in Microbiology from Kasetsart University, Thailand, and a Diploma in Microbiology and Biotechnology from Osaka University, Japan. His early academic pursuits provided a strong foundation in microbial taxonomy, biotechnology, and applied microbiology.

🔬 Professional Endeavors and Research Focus

Currently, Prof. Tanasupawat is a Professor at the Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand. His research expertise spans microbial taxonomy, industrial microbiology, and biotechnology. His contributions in identifying and characterizing novel microbial species have significantly advanced microbiological research.

📚 Research Contributions and Publications

With a prolific research career, Prof. Tanasupawat has published over 380 research articles in peer-reviewed journals and contributed 45 book chapters with internationally recognized publishers. His work in microbial taxonomy and applied microbiology has played a vital role in developing microbial applications for pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and environmental sciences.

🏆 Awards and Recognitions

His outstanding contributions to microbiology have been acknowledged with several prestigious awards, including:

  • Scientist Award – Nagai Award (1996) from the Nagai Foundation, Tokyo, recognizing his early scientific achievements.

  • National Outstanding Research Award (2020) from the National Research Council of Thailand, highlighting his groundbreaking research in microbiology.

📖 Editorial and Academic Influence

Prof. Tanasupawat is an editorial board member of several scientific journals, further demonstrating his leadership in the microbiology community. His role as a mentor and researcher continues to influence microbiological advancements and guide future generations of scientists.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

With his extensive research experience, Prof. Tanasupawat continues to contribute to microbial taxonomy and biotechnology, exploring new applications of microorganisms in pharmaceutical, environmental, and industrial fields. His legacy will remain in the identification and utilization of beneficial microbes, shaping the future of applied microbiology and microbial research worldwide.

📖Notable Publications

Description of Komagataeibacter gen. nov., with proposals of new combinations (Acetobacteraceae)

Authors: Y Yamada, P Yukphan, HTL Vu, Y Muramatsu, D Ochaikul, …

Journal: The Journal of General and Applied Microbiology

Year: 2012

Lactobacillus acidipiscis sp. nov. and Weissella thailandensis sp. nov., isolated from fermented fish in Thailand

Authors: S Tanasupawat, O Shida, S Okada, K Komagata

Journal: International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology

Year: 2000

Ideonella sakaiensis sp. nov., isolated from a microbial consortium that degrades poly(ethylene terephthalate)

Authors: S Tanasupawat, T Takehana, S Yoshida, K Hiraga, K Oda

Journal: International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology

Year: 2016

Proteinase-producing halophilic lactic acid bacteria isolated from fish sauce fermentation and their ability to produce volatile compounds

Authors: N Udomsil, S Rodtong, S Tanasupawat, J Yongsawatdigul

Journal: International Journal of Food Microbiology

Year: 2010

Exopolysaccharide-producing lactic acid bacteria strains from traditional Thai fermented foods: isolation, identification and exopolysaccharide characterization

Authors: T Smitinont, C Tansakul, S Tanasupawat, S Keeratipibul, L Navarini, …

Journal: International Journal of Food Microbiology

Year: 1999

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

Duk-Hwa Kwon | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award -1610

Dr. Duk-Hwa Kwon | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Chonnam National University Medical School, South Korea

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

He began his academic journey in biotechnology, earning his B.S. degree from Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Korea, between 2002 and 2007. Building on his passion for the life sciences, he pursued an M.S. in Biotechnology at the same institution from 2007 to 2009. His early academic endeavors laid a strong foundation in the principles of biological sciences, molecular mechanisms, and biotechnological applications.

🏛️ Professional Endeavors

Following his academic training, He advanced to a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences (2011–2014) at Chonnam National University's Medical School. Post-graduation, he transitioned to a postdoctoral fellowship in the Department of Pharmacology at the same university, where he has been serving since 2014. In this role, Dr. Kwon has collaborated on cutting-edge pharmacological research, contributing significantly to the university's academic and scientific reputation.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

His research has primarily focused on the intersection of biotechnology and pharmacology. His work has explored molecular mechanisms underlying diseases, drug discovery, and the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. He has contributed to understanding biomedical pathways, significantly advancing pharmacological knowledge and biomedical applications.

🌍 Impact and Influence

His academic and professional contributions have had a profound impact on the fields of biotechnology and pharmacology. By combining foundational biotechnology knowledge with clinical applications, he has addressed critical health challenges, providing innovative solutions to modern medical problems. His work continues to influence the direction of pharmacological research globally.

📚 Academic Citations

As a researcher, He has accumulated a noteworthy number of citations, reflecting the academic community's recognition of his impactful research. His publications have appeared in prestigious journals, marking him as a key contributor to his field.

🛠️ Technical Skills

He possesses advanced technical skills in biotechnology and pharmacology, including molecular biology techniques, drug screening methods, and cell culture systems. His expertise also spans advanced pharmacological modeling and data analysis.

🧑‍🏫 Teaching Experience

In addition to his research roles, He has contributed to academic teaching. His mentorship of students and involvement in laboratory training have helped shape the next generation of researchers and scientists in biotechnology and pharmacology.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

His dedication to biomedical sciences and pharmacology positions him as a leading figure in his field. His legacy lies in his ability to bridge the gap between biotechnology and clinical applications, ensuring that his contributions continue to benefit academia and industry. Looking forward, Dr. Kwon is poised to expand his research into innovative therapies, furthering advancements in healthcare and biomedical science.

📖Notable Publications

MDM2 E3 ligase-mediated ubiquitination and degradation of HDAC1 in vascular calcification

Authors: DH Kwon, GH Eom, JH Ko, S Shin, H Joung, N Choe, YS Nam, HK Min, ...
Journal: Nature Communications
Year: 2016

The microRNA miR‐124 inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation by targeting S100 calcium‐binding protein A4 (S100A4)

Authors: N Choe, DH Kwon, S Shin, YS Kim, YK Kim, J Kim, Y Ahn, GH Eom, ...
Journal: FEBS Letters
Year: 2017

Estrogen-related receptor gamma induces cardiac hypertrophy by activating GATA4

Authors: DH Kwon, GH Eom, HJ Kee, YS Nam, YK Cho, DK Kim, JY Koo, HS Kim, ...
Journal: Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology
Year: 2013

Characterization of circular RNAs in vascular smooth muscle cells with vascular calcification

Authors: J Ryu, DH Kwon, N Choe, S Shin, G Jeong, YH Lim, J Kim, WJ Park, ...
Journal: Molecular Therapy-Nucleic Acids
Year: 2020

PP2A negatively regulates the hypertrophic response by dephosphorylating HDAC2 S394 in the heart

Authors: S Yoon, T Kook, HK Min, DH Kwon, YK Cho, M Kim, S Shin, H Joung, ...
Journal: Experimental & Molecular Medicine
Year: 2018

Long noncoding RNAs in vascular smooth muscle cells regulate vascular calcification
Authors: G Jeong, DH Kwon, S Shin, N Choe, J Ryu, YH Lim, J Kim, WJ Park, ...
Journal: Scientific Reports
Year: 2019