Valentina Perissi | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Valentina Perissi | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Boston University, United States

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Valentina Perissi began her academic journey at the University of Torino, Italy, where she earned a Laurea degree (equivalent to a combined BSc/MSc) in Molecular Biology in July 1997. She then advanced her expertise at the University of California San Diego, completing her PhD in Molecular Pathology in March 2004. Following her doctoral studies, she undertook a postdoctoral fellowship at the same institution, focusing on Epigenetics, Endocrinology, and Metabolism, which she completed in June 2010. These foundational years established her deep knowledge in molecular biology and paved the way for her interdisciplinary research.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Currently, Dr. Perissi holds the position of Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry at Boston University School of Medicine. Beyond her faculty role, she has taken on leadership responsibilities as the Co-Director of the Boston Nutrition Obesity Research Center (BNORC) for the past three years. This NIDDK-funded center fosters collaboration among researchers from four leading Boston institutions, bridging nutrition and obesity studies to address metabolic diseases. Her role as co-director highlights her commitment to scientific leadership and collaborative research environments.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Perissi’s research focuses on the intricate molecular mechanisms governing metabolic adaptation in response to nutrient availability, cellular differentiation, and oxidative stress. Over the last decade, her laboratory has concentrated on elucidating mitochondria-nuclear communication pathways, specifically the crosstalk between metabolism and epigenetics in adipose tissue and breast cancer cells. Her innovative work contributes to a deeper understanding of how cellular metabolism influences gene regulation, with implications for obesity, cancer, and metabolic diseases.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Dr. Perissi has authored more than 30 high-impact publications in leading journals, reflecting her significant contributions to molecular and cellular biology. She has been recognized as a thought leader in her field, evidenced by numerous invited talks at prestigious international conferences such as the Nature Conference on Mitochondria and Immunity (Beijing), Cold Spring Harbor Asia Conferences, Gordon Conference, and the American Diabetes Association Annual Meeting. Her scientific influence extends globally, shaping current understanding in mitochondrial biology and metabolism.

📊 Academic Citations and Recognition

Her scholarly work has garnered substantial citations, underscoring the broad relevance and adoption of her research findings. Dr. Perissi’s accolades include prestigious awards and fellowships such as the ISSNAF Award for Biomedicine and Cognitive Sciences (Honorable Mention), the Peter T. Paul Career Development Professorship at Boston University, the K99/R00 NIH Pathway to Independence Award, and fellowships from NIH and leading research organizations in Italy. These honors reflect her outstanding scientific rigor and career development.

🧰 Technical Skills

Dr. Perissi’s expertise spans advanced molecular biology techniques, including epigenetic assays, metabolic flux analysis, mitochondrial functional studies, and cellular differentiation protocols. Her lab integrates multi-disciplinary approaches combining cell biology, biochemistry, and systems biology to dissect complex signaling pathways regulating metabolism and gene expression.

🎓 Teaching and Mentorship Experience

Throughout her academic career, Dr. Perissi has been deeply invested in mentoring the next generation of scientists. She currently leads a diverse and collaborative team consisting of 1 research faculty member, 5 postdoctoral fellows, 11 predoctoral students (including PhD and Master’s candidates from programs in Molecular Pharmacology, Biochemistry, Genetics and Genomics, and Nutrition and Metabolism), as well as 19 undergraduate students. Her mentorship fosters scientific growth and encourages interdisciplinary training.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Perissi’s work sits at the crossroads of metabolism, epigenetics, and disease, promising to unlock new therapeutic targets for obesity and cancer. Looking ahead, her continued leadership at BNORC and Boston University will expand collaborative research and translate fundamental discoveries into clinical applications. Her commitment to mentorship and innovative science secures her legacy as a transformative figure in biomedical research.

📖Notable Publications

  • GPS2-mediated regulation of the adipocyte secretome modulates adipose tissue remodeling at the onset of diet-induced obesity
    Authors: Justin English, Joseph Orofino, Carly T. Cederquist, Indranil Paul, Hao Li, Johan Auwerx, Andrew Emili, Anna Belkina, Dafne Cardamone, Valentina Perissi
    Journal: Molecular Metabolism
    Year: 2023

  • Inhibition of K63 ubiquitination by G-Protein pathway suppressor 2 (GPS2) regulates mitochondria-associated translation
    Authors: Yuan Gao, Julian Kwan, Joseph Orofino, Justin English, Ryan Hekman, Shawn M. Lyons, Andrew Emili, Maria Dafne Cardamone, Valentina Perissi
    Type: Preprint
    Year: 2022

  • Neuralized-like protein 4 (NEURL4) mediates ADP-ribosylation of mitochondrial proteins
    Authors: Maria Dafne Cardamone, Yuan Gao, Julian Kwan, Vanessa Hayashi, Megan Sheeran, Junxiang Xu, Justin English, Joseph Orofino, Andrew Emili, Valentina Perissi
    Journal: Journal of Cell Biology
    Year: 2022

  • Erratum: Actionable Cytopathogenic Host Responses of Human Alveolar Type 2 Cells to SARS-CoV-2
    Authors: Hekman, R.M., Hume, A.J., Goel, R.K., Abo, K.M., Huang, J., Blum, B.C., Werder, R.B., Suder, E.L., Paul, I., Phanse, S. et al.
    Journal: Molecular Cell
    Year: 2021

  • Loss of G-Protein Pathway Suppressor 2 Promotes Tumor Growth Through Activation of AKT Signaling
    Authors: Chan, S., Smith, E., Gao, Y., Kwan, J., Blum, B.C., Tilston-Lunel, A.M., Turcinovic, I., Varelas, X., Cardamone, M.D., Monti, S. et al.
    Journal: Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology
    Year: 2021

Deguo Han | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Prof. Dr. Deguo Han | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Northeast Agricultural University, China

👨‍🎓Profiles

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Dr. Deguo Han began his academic journey in plant sciences, eventually earning his Ph.D. from China Agricultural University, one of China’s top institutions in agricultural research. His foundational interests in plant stress physiology and molecular biology laid the groundwork for his future contributions to cold-region horticulture. From early on, Prof. Han demonstrated an aptitude for experimental research and innovation in plant science, which he later translated into impactful real-world applications.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as a professor at the College of Horticulture, Northeast Agricultural University, Prof. Han has amassed a wealth of academic and research experience. Over the years, he has led three National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) projects and is currently overseeing a provincial key R&D program. As a key contributor to national and regional horticultural development, he has also spearheaded five industry collaborations, enhancing cultivation practices and stress resistance in fruit crops.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Han specializes in plant stress physiology, molecular breeding, and fruit quality regulation, particularly in cold environments. His pioneering research has uncovered molecular mechanisms regulating cold and iron stress resistance in fruit trees, significantly advancing the field. His published work—over 80 academic papers, with nearly 30 SCI-indexed as first or corresponding author—appears in respected journals like Biologia Plantarum, Scientia Horticulturae, and Plant Molecular Biology Reporter. His investigations into sugar metabolism in fruits and post-harvest physiology have also contributed to improved fruit storage and processing strategies.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Prof. Han’s contributions have had a profound impact on horticulture in cold regions, especially Northeast China. He played a key role in developing stress-tolerant cultivars, contributing to sustainable agriculture in challenging climates. His efforts earned him two provincial awards, including the prestigious Provincial Science and Technology Progress Award. Furthermore, his mentorship has cultivated a new generation of researchers—five of his mentees have secured National Youth Funds—thus ensuring the continuation of excellence in the field.

📚 Academic Publications and Citations

With an H-index of 22, Prof. Han’s research enjoys strong academic visibility and impact. His citation record reflects both the quality and relevance of his work. In addition to peer-reviewed articles, he has contributed to important academic books, including the textbook “Plant Tissue Culture” (ISBN: 9787122163448), part of China’s “12th Five-Year Plan” curriculum, and “Fruit Trees in Heilongjiang” (ISBN: 9787567407237). His patent on the MxCS gene of Malus xiaojinensis (Application No.: 201010165100.1) underscores his innovative edge.

🧪 Technical Skills

Prof. Han is adept in a wide range of molecular and physiological techniques, including gene cloning, plant tissue culture, physiological stress assays, and post-harvest quality analysis. His interdisciplinary approach integrates lab-based research with field applications, especially in breeding and high-efficiency cultivation technologies.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

A dedicated educator, Prof. Han has mentored over 20 postgraduate students, many of whom have progressed to become researchers and academic leaders themselves. He is also a respected editor of Acta Horticulturae Sinica and a guest editor for the Special Issue “Physiology and Molecular Biology of Plant Stress Tolerance” in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences. His dual role as a researcher and mentor ensures that theoretical knowledge is effectively translated into practical learning and innovation.

🏅 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Han’s legacy is built on scientific rigor, academic mentorship, and real-world impact. As a Council Member in multiple branches of the Chinese Society for Horticultural Science, including the Small Fruit Branch and the Young Scientists’ Branch, and an Executive Council Member of the Horticultural Society of Heilongjiang Province, he continues to shape the direction of Chinese horticultural science. Looking ahead, he aims to develop new molecular tools and crop varieties that can thrive under climate change conditions, thereby bolstering food security and agricultural resilience in cold regions.

📖Notable Publications

  • Overexpression of a transcription factor MdWRKY126 altered soluble sugar accumulation in apple and tomato fruit
    Authors: Lihua Zhang, Yu Xu, Zhexing Luo, Mingjun Li, Deguo Han
    Journal: Horticultural Plant Journal
    Year: 2025

  • Overexpression of a Fragaria × ananassa AP2/ERF Transcription Factor Gene (FaTINY2) Increases Cold and Salt Tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana
    Authors: Wenhui Li, Wenhao Zhang, Huiwen Li, Wenquan Yu, Deguo Han
    Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    Year: 2025

  • Arabidopsis thaliana Plants’ Overexpression of the MYB Transcription Factor VhMYB60 in the Face of Stress Hazards Enhances Salt and Cold Tolerance
    Authors: Zhe Chen, Jinghan Wang, Wenhui Li, Xingguo Li, Deguo Han
    Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    Year: 2025

  • Malus xiaojinensis MxbHLH30 Confers Iron Homeostasis Under Iron Deficiency in Arabidopsis
    Authors: Yu Xu, Yingnan Li, Zhuo Chen, Lihua Zhang, Deguo Han
    Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    Year: 2025

  • Changes and Trade-Offs of Ecological Service Functions of Public Welfare Forests (2000–2019) in Southwest Zhejiang Province, China
    Authors: Ziqiang Liu, Deguo Han, Limin Ye, Yuanke Xu, Yong Zhang
    Journal: Forests
    Year: 2024

Somboon Tanasupawat | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

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

Samar Zailaie | RNA Biology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Mrs. Samar Zailaie | RNA Biology | Best Researcher Award

King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, Saudi Arabia

👨‍🎓Profiles

📚 Early Academic Pursuits

Samar Zailaie earned her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in 2009. She then pursued a Master of Science in Molecular Pathology at the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada, graduating in 2015. Her academic background laid a solid foundation in biochemistry and molecular pathology, which has been crucial for her subsequent research endeavors.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

She has held several significant positions at the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center (KFSHRC) in Jeddah, where she currently works as a Research Associate and Lab Manager of Research since March 2023. She has also served as a Research Technician since April 2018. Her previous roles include Lab Coordinator and Human Biology Teacher at My Little House School, and a Research Lab Coordinator at the University of Alberta Hospital. These positions highlight her versatility and commitment to advancing healthcare through research and education.

🌱 Contributions and Research Focus

Her research primarily focuses on developing diagnostic biomarker panels for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its progression to hepatocellular carcinoma. She is particularly interested in the role of non-coding RNAs, especially miRNAs, in chronic inflammation due to fat deposition in the liver. Additionally, her work on dysregulated serum miRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers for multiple sclerosis subtypes in the Saudi population emphasizes her dedication to understanding and combating complex diseases.

🌟 Impact and Influence

She has made a notable impact in the field of molecular pathology and medical research through her contributions to understanding diseases prevalent in the Saudi population. Her findings on miRNAs have the potential to influence diagnostic practices and improve patient outcomes in multiple sclerosis and liver diseases. She is also active in various committees, enhancing research safety and providing advisory support at King Abdulaziz University and the National Unified Procurement Company (NUPCO).

📜 Academic Cites

She has published multiple research papers, contributing to the understanding of biomarkers in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and multiple sclerosis. Her work is increasingly recognized in scientific literature, aiding in the advancement of diagnostic techniques and therapeutic strategies.

⚙️ Technical Skills

Samar possesses extensive laboratory skills, including:

  • Nucleic acid extraction from diverse sample types
  • Next-generation sequencing for gene mutations and transcriptomics
  • Chromatin immunoprecipitation and RNA purification
  • Real-time PCR and mammalian cell culture
  • Tissue staining techniques (IHC, ISH, FISH) and immunoblotting These skills highlight her expertise in advanced molecular biology techniques essential for her research.

👩‍🏫 Teaching Experience

She has experience teaching Human Biology at the secondary level, specifically the Cambridge International GCSE curriculum. Her role as a lab coordinator also involved guiding students through practical lab sessions, fostering a strong understanding of biological sciences among her students.

🌱 Legacy

Her work is paving the way for better diagnostic practices in Saudi Arabia, particularly in the context of liver disease and multiple sclerosis. Her commitment to research and education ensures that she is not only contributing to scientific knowledge but also inspiring the next generation of scientists.

🔮 Future Contributions

Looking ahead, She aims to continue her research on biomarkers and their roles in various diseases, focusing on translational research that can directly benefit patient care. She aspires to expand her contributions to global research efforts, enhancing collaborative projects that address health challenges in the Middle East and beyond.

📖Notable Publications

 

Şengül Alpay Karaoğlu | Molecular Biology | Women Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Prof Dr. Şengül Alpay Karaoğlu | Molecular Biology | Women Researcher Award

Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University, Turkey

 Profiles👨‍🎓

 Early Academic Pursuits🎓

Prof. Dr. Sengul Alpay Karaoglu's academic foundation is grounded in Microbial Physiology, earning her MSc in 2015-2016 from Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University. Her early focus included critical areas such as General Microbiology, Virology, Immunology, and Molecular Biology and Genetics. Over time, she has expanded her expertise into Biotechnology, Biodiversity Conservation, Pharmacology, and Mycology. Her solid academic background laid the groundwork for her substantial contributions in microbial and environmental sciences.

 Professional Endeavors💼

She has held multiple influential academic roles at Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University, including Faculty Board Member (2015–2022) and Head of the Biology Department (2016–present). She was also appointed Professor at Gümüşhane University in 2022. Her academic career spans two decades of service, where she has actively contributed to curriculum development and academic leadership in Biology, Microbiology, and Mycology. Beyond administrative roles, she is a patent holder and has led numerous research projects, showcasing her multidisciplinary talents in both teaching and research.

 Contributions and Research Focus🔬

Her research portfolio is rich with innovative work across microbiology, pharmacology, and biotechnology. Her research has notably contributed to understanding antimicrobial drugs and microbial biodiversity. Major highlights include: Antimicrobial properties of lactic acid bacteria isolated from honeybees (Apis mellifera), Characterization of Bacillus species and their bioactive metabolites, including antifungal and antibacterial activities, Studies on antibiotic resistance in Escherichia coli strains and molecular identification of Trichoderma species for biological control.

Her research contributions are reflected in several peer-reviewed publications and patents, such as her invention on an anti-helicobacter effective azo dye and urease enzyme inhibitor. Her work on synthesizing Penicillin-, Cephalosporin-, and Norfloxacin-Azole hybrid molecules demonstrates her role in advancing antimicrobial drug design.

 Impact and Influence🌍

Her impact on the scientific community is wide-reaching, particularly in microbiology and biotechnology. Her TÜBİTAK projects and work with higher education institutions underscore her leadership in addressing critical environmental and agricultural challenges. The innovative nature of her research has implications for antimicrobial therapies, environmental microbiology, and pharmacology, helping shape global understanding in these fields.

 Academic Cites and Recognition📚

Her research output has been widely cited in scientific journals and conferences, contributing to her reputation as a leading academic in Turkey and beyond. Her studies have enhanced the scientific understanding of antibiotic resistance and biological control mechanisms.

Technical Skills🛠️

Prof. Karaoglu’s technical expertise spans advanced microbiological techniques, including microbial culturing, genetic sequencing, molecular biology assays, and biotechnological applications. Her ability to blend laboratory research with real-world environmental applications is a hallmark of her technical acumen.

Teaching Experience👩‍🏫

She has an extensive teaching career, offering courses across several key fields, including: Molecular Cell Biology, Environmental Biotechnology, Food Microbiology, Virology. Antimicrobial Drugs and Their Mechanisms of Action Her commitment to academic excellence is demonstrated through her management of multiple graduate theses, mentoring students in cutting-edge microbiological research.

Legacy and Future Contributions🏆

Her legacy is one of scientific innovation and educational leadership. As a professor and researcher, she has not only contributed to critical advancements in microbiology and pharmacology but also nurtured the next generation of scientists. Moving forward, her work in biotechnology, antimicrobial resistance, and environmental microbiology will continue to be pivotal in addressing global scientific challenges. Prof. Karaoglu’s extensive portfolio ensures her lasting influence on both academia and the scientific community.

Notable Publications📖

"Characterization of chitin and description of its antimicrobial properties obtained from Cydalima perspectalis adults"

Authors: Kılcı, L., Altun, N., Karaoğlu, Ş.A., Karaduman Yeşildal, T.

Journal: Polymer Bulletin

Year: 2024

"Prevalence and Phylogenetic Network Analysis of Nosema apis and Nosema ceranae Isolates from Honeybee Colonies in Türkiye"

Authors: Akpınar, R.K., Gürler, A.T., Bölükbaş, C.S., Küçükoğlu, B., Kurt, M.

Journal: Acta Parasitologica

Year: 2024

"Prevalence and molecular analysis of some important viruses in honey bee colonies in Türkiye: the status of multiple infections"

Authors: Akpinar, R., Ozan, E., Celik, S., Yaldiz, M., Karaoglu, S.A.

Journal: Archives of Virology

Year: 2024

"Synthesis, Antimicrobial Activities, and Molecular Modeling Studies of Agents for the Sortase A Enzyme"

Authors: Tatar Yilmaz, G., Yayli, N., Tüzüner, T., Bozdeveci, A., Alpay Karaoğlu, Ş.

Journal: Chemistry and Biodiversity

Year: 2024

"Determination of plant growth promoting properties and bioremediation potentials of Bacillus mycoides Flügge and B. thuringiensis Berliner"

Authors: Üreyen Esertaş, Ü.Z., Bozdeveci, A., Uzunalioğlu, E., Alpay Karaoğlu, Ş.

Journal: Trakya University Journal of Natural Sciences

Year: 2024

"Some Schiff Bases Containing Eugenol and Guaiacol: Comparison of Urease Inhibition and Anti-Helicobacter pylori Activities with Its Azo Analogs"

Authors: Kantar, C., Baltaş, N., Karaoğlu, Ş.A., Şaşmaz, S.

Journal: Pharmaceutical Chemistry Journal

Year: 2024