Valentina Perissi | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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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

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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

Mingguo Zhou | Chemical Biology | Outstanding Scientist Award

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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