Ashraf Rangrez | Molecular Cardiology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Cell Biologist

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ashraf Rangrez | Molecular Cardiology | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ashraf Rangrez, Heidelberg University Hospital, Germany

Priv.-Doz. Dr. Ashraf Yusuf Rangrez is a leading cardiovascular and molecular biology researcher currently serving as Senior Group Leader at the Department of Internal Medicine III, University Hospital of Heidelberg, Germany. With a deep commitment to translational science, Dr. Rangrez’s work intersects molecular cardiology, autophagy, chromatin remodeling, and host-microbiome interactions. He completed his PhD in Biotechnology in 2011 and earned his Habilitation in 2018 at Christian-Albrecht University of Kiel. His extensive publication record in top-tier journals and innovative contributions to heart failure and cardiac remodeling research have earned him numerous accolades, including travel grants from the American Heart Association and a DAAD Fellowship. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, he successfully established his research lab in Heidelberg. His work is paving the way for novel molecular diagnostics and therapies in cardiovascular medicine.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar 

Scopus

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. 📚 Outstanding Publication Record:

    • Published in high-impact journals such as Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy (IF 52.7), Nature Communications (IF 15.7), Circulation (IF 37.8), and Cell Metabolism (IF 17.565).

    • Demonstrates consistent scholarly productivity with first-author and corresponding-author roles in several major publications.

  2. 🔬 Cutting-Edge Research Themes:

    • His work bridges molecular cardiology, ubiquitin signaling, chromatin remodeling, and host-microbiome interactions, which are critical frontiers in precision medicine and cardiovascular disease.

    • Recent contributions on TRIM24, FYCO1, and HectD3 show clear translational relevance for heart failure and cardiac hypertrophy.

  3. 🧪 Leadership & Resilience:

    • Successfully established and led a research group during the COVID-19 pandemic despite massive logistical setbacks—a mark of determination and leadership.

    • Currently holds the role of Senior Group Leader at the prestigious University Hospital of Heidelberg, overseeing multiple projects and mentoring young researchers.

  4. 🎖 Academic Recognition:

    • Recipient of Young Investigator Awards from both the American Heart Association and Basic Cardiovascular Society.

    • Awarded a DAAD Fellowship, indicating international recognition of academic excellence early in his career.

  5. 🌍 Interdisciplinary and International Exposure:

    • PhD collaboration between India and Germany through a DAAD Sandwich Fellowship shows global collaboration and a diverse academic background.

    • Actively collaborates with renowned scientists across Europe and North America.

📌 Areas for Improvement:

📣 Expand International Visibility:

Participation as keynote speaker or chair in more global symposia could further cement his thought leadership role.
Greater involvement in editorial boards or as a guest editor for top journals would strengthen his academic influence.
💼 Strengthen Industry Partnerships:

Increased collaboration with biotech/pharma industries could help translate some of his molecular discoveries into clinical or commercial therapies.
📊 Grant Funding Scale-up:

While he leads group-level projects, targeting larger European or Horizon Europe consortia could amplify his lab’s impact and resources.

 

🎓 Education:

Dr. Rangrez holds a PhD in Biotechnology (2011), conducted jointly at the National Centre for Cell Science (India) and Technical University of Berlin (Germany) under a prestigious DAAD Sandwich Fellowship. His doctoral work focused on microbial biotechnology and gene expression profiling. In 2018, he obtained his Habilitation and Venia Legendi in Molecular Medicine at Christian-Albrecht University of Kiel, under the mentorship of Prof. Dr. Norbert Frey. This qualification marked his academic independence and enabled him to lecture at the university level. His multidisciplinary academic formation bridges life sciences, translational medicine, and molecular cardiology, forming a strong foundation for his current cardiovascular and molecular research endeavors.

💼 Professional Experience:

Currently a Senior Group Leader at University Hospital Heidelberg’s Department of Cardiology, Dr. Rangrez leads research at the interface of cardiac biology and systems medicine. He has previously conducted postdoctoral research in molecular cardiology and worked with key figures in cardiovascular medicine, including Prof. Norbert Frey. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he overcame logistical and infrastructural hurdles to establish a fully operational laboratory, demonstrating high resilience and leadership. His responsibilities include mentoring junior researchers, managing complex scientific collaborations, and leading grant-funded projects. Dr. Rangrez’s experience spans over a decade and includes cutting-edge research in chromatin remodeling, cardiac hypertrophy, autophagy, and the microbiome. His career is marked by a deep commitment to translational science and a consistent trajectory of scientific excellence.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Rangrez’s research centers on cardiac remodeling, heart failure, chromatin regulation, autophagy, and the microbiome’s role in cardiovascular disease. His group investigates cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis using integrative multi-omics, imaging, and animal models. A major theme of his work is understanding ubiquitin ligases and TRIM proteins in heart disease and exploring how chromatin remodelers like TRIM24 affect gene expression and calcium signaling in cardiomyocytes. Recently, he has expanded into host-microbiome interactions and their influence on cardiovascular health, paving the way for novel diagnostics and personalized medicine. His interdisciplinary approach blends molecular biology, systems medicine, and clinical cardiology. His group also explores exercise-induced regeneration in aging hearts and mechanistic studies on gene-environment interactions in heart failure progression.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

🧬 TRIM24 regulates chromatin remodeling and calcium dynamics in cardiomyocytes – Cell Commun Signal (2025)
🧭 A cross-study transcriptional patient map of heart failure defines conserved multicellular coordination – Nat Comm (2025)
🧫 A systematic framework for understanding the microbiome in human health and disease – STTT (2024)
🏃‍♂️ Restoration of Cardiomyogenesis in Aged Mouse Hearts by Voluntary Exercise – Circulation (2022)
🔁 FYCO1 regulates cardiomyocyte autophagy and prevents heart failure in vivo – JACC BTS (2021)
🛡️ The E3 ubiquitin ligase HectD3 attenuates cardiac hypertrophy and inflammation – Commun Biol (2020)
⚖️ TRIM24 promotes and TRIM32 inhibits cardiomyocyte hypertrophy via dysbindin regulation – J Biol Chem (2017)
💓 Myoscape controls cardiac calcium cycling via L-type Ca2+ channel regulation – Nat Comm (2016)
🚨 Dysbindin is a potent inducer of RhoA-SRF-mediated cardiomyocyte hypertrophy – J Cell Biol (2013)
🧪 Adiponutrin functions as a nutritionally regulated LPA acyltransferase – Cell Metab (2012)

🧾 Conclusion:

Priv.-Doz. Dr. Ashraf Yusuf Rangrez stands out as a dedicated, innovative, and resilient researcher whose work has had substantial influence on cardiovascular science, especially in the areas of cardiac remodeling, chromatin biology, and autophagy. He combines academic rigor, leadership under pressure, and translational impact. Given his exceptional publication record, international collaborations, and scientific contributions to cardiac and molecular medicine, he is an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

 

 

 

Junfeng Zhang | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Cell Biologist

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Junfeng Zhang | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Junfeng Zhang, Anhui University of Science and Technology, China

Dr. Junfeng Zhang is an Associate Professor and Deputy Director of the Center for Medical Frontiers at the School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology. With a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences, he has emerged as a leading figure in nanomedicine and cancer theranostics. His work integrates nanotechnology, molecular imaging, and drug delivery systems, particularly focusing on intelligent nanoformulations for tumor targeting and integrated diagnostics and therapy. Dr. Zhang is an active member of multiple national medical committees and has contributed significantly to interdisciplinary research. His publications in prestigious journals like Advanced Materials, Small Methods, and Advanced Science reflect both scientific depth and translational potential. As a council and committee member of several medical and health associations, he actively promotes collaboration across academic and healthcare institutions. His dedication to innovation and public health positions him as a rising star in biomedical engineering and personalized cancer therapy.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. High-Impact Research Contributions

    • Dr. Zhang has published in top-tier international journals such as Advanced Materials (IF: 32.086), Advanced Science (IF: 15.1), and Small Methods (IF: 15.367).

    • His work demonstrates interdisciplinary excellence—combining nanotechnology, oncology, and imaging science to address complex medical challenges.

  2. Innovative Scientific Focus

    • Focused on intelligent theranostic nanoformulations, his research targets both diagnostic imaging and cancer therapy in a single platform.

    • He has developed laser-free imaging systems, nucleus-targeted drug delivery platforms, and responsive nanosystems, which are highly relevant to personalized and precision medicine.

  3. Leadership & Recognition

    • Serves as the Deputy Director of the Center for Medical Frontiers, showing strategic leadership.

    • Holds multiple national-level committee memberships, indicating peer recognition and influence in the field of nuclear medicine, digital health, and environmental mutagen studies.

  4. Collaborative & Global Research Impact

    • Frequently collaborates with international researchers like Prof. Rui L. Reis.

    • Demonstrates versatility in both experimental and translational research, addressing real-world medical and toxicological issues.

  5. Consistent Productivity

    • Maintains a consistent and strong publication record as first/corresponding author over the past five years, with multi-disciplinary themes.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Commercialization & Patent Activity

    • While his work is scientifically advanced, there is limited visible emphasis on patent filings, technology transfer, or startup ventures. Increasing focus here would enhance his profile for innovation-based awards.

  2. International Outreach

    • Although involved in collaborations, more visibility in international scientific conferences, editorial boards, or global awards could further strengthen his candidacy on the world stage.

  3. Public Health Engagement

    • As his work is deeply relevant to cancer management, more visible contributions to community awareness, patient education, or policy advisory roles could broaden the societal impact of his research.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Junfeng Zhang earned his doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in biomedical sciences, with a specialization in nanomedicine and molecular diagnostics. While the specific university name is not listed, the rigorous research output suggests training from a high-caliber institution. His education integrated core principles of pharmacology, biomedical engineering, and cancer biology, allowing him to build a strong foundation in interdisciplinary medical research. During his academic career, he focused on translational research that merges engineering, imaging technologies, and clinical applications. Through his doctoral training, Dr. Zhang acquired advanced techniques in nanoparticle synthesis, fluorescence imaging, and drug delivery. His education paved the way for impactful research in photoacoustic imaging and intelligent targeted therapies. Dr. Zhang’s academic background equipped him to lead cutting-edge research projects that align with global challenges in oncology. He continues to leverage his academic foundation to mentor graduate students and drive innovation in healthcare technology development.

🧪 Experience:

Dr. Zhang currently serves as Associate Professor and Deputy Director of the Center for Medical Frontiers at the School of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology. He holds prominent roles including Council Member of the Anhui Provincial Society of Environmental Mutagens and committee memberships in nuclear medicine and digital health bodies. With over five years of experience in biomedical research and teaching, he has led numerous research projects at the interface of nanomedicine, cancer biology, and imaging diagnostics. His international collaborations and editorial contributions signify global recognition. As a mentor, he guides students and young researchers in clinical translation of nano-based therapies. His leadership at the Center for Medical Frontiers emphasizes high-impact innovation, collaborative research culture, and practical solutions to oncological diseases. His diverse experience in academic, clinical, and committee roles demonstrates his comprehensive influence in shaping future medical technologies and public health strategies.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Zhang’s research focuses on the development of intelligent theranostic nanoformulations aimed at achieving both diagnosis and treatment of tumors in a single platform. His work emphasizes dual-mode imaging systems (photoacoustic/fluorescence), targeted drug delivery, and biocompatible nanocarriers capable of bypassing biological barriers. One of his key innovations involves creating gold- and carbon-based nanomaterials for laser-free imaging and mitochondrial apoptosis induction. He is particularly interested in nucleus-targeted therapies, precision drug delivery, and responsive nanosystems that adjust to tumor microenvironments. He also studies the toxicological aspects of nanomedicines under various physiological conditions, including magnetic field exposure and metabolic pathway disruptions. His research bridges disciplines like pharmacology, materials science, and medical imaging, contributing to the personalized medicine movement. With a strong publication record in high-impact journals, his research focus reflects a commitment to translating laboratory innovations into clinical applications to improve cancer diagnosis, treatment precision, and therapeutic outcomes.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 A Multifunctional Photoacoustic/Fluorescence Dual-Mode-Imaging Gold-Based Theranostic Nanoformulation without External Laser Limitations – Advanced Materials, 2022

  2. 💊 An Efficient Carbon-Based Drug Delivery System for Cancer Therapy through the Nucleus Targeting and Mitochondria Mediated Apoptotic Pathway – Small Methods, 2021

  3. 🧠 Humanistic Health Management and Cancer: Associations of Psychology, Nutrition, and Exercise with Cancer Progression and Pathogenesis – Advanced Science, 2024

  4. 🌿 Preparation, Characterization, and Evaluation of the Antitumor Effect of Kaempferol Nanosuspensions – Drug Delivery and Translational Research, 2023

  5. 🐟 High Concentrations of Fluorescent Nanoprobes Delayed Oryzias Melastigma Embryo Hatching by Modulating Respiratory and Metabolic Pathways – VIEW, 2025

  6. 🧲 The Biokinetics and Toxicology of Fe₃O₄ Nanoparticles Influenced by Magnetic Field and Protein – Nano, 2022

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Junfeng Zhang is a highly suitable and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His cutting-edge work in nanomedicine, combined with consistent high-impact publications, academic leadership, and contributions to national scientific bodies, clearly mark him as a rising and influential scientist in the medical research community. With slight enhancements in technology translation and international public engagement, he holds potential to become a global leader in biomedical innovation.

Zhi Guo | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Cell Biologist

Prof. Dr Zhi Guo | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr Zhi Guo | Department of Hematology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital | China

Dr. Zhi Guo is a distinguished expert in hematology with over 25 years of clinical and academic experience. Currently serving as Director, Academic Leader, Chief Physician, and Professor at the Department of Hematology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, he has been instrumental in advancing hematologic malignancy treatments in China. With extensive expertise in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, Dr. Guo has successfully performed more than 1,300 transplant cases. He began his career at the PLA Army General Hospital, serving there for nearly two decades before transitioning to his current role. A prolific researcher, he has authored over 10 peer-reviewed publications and five books, contributing substantially to the understanding of CAR-T therapy, gut microbiota, and transplantation immunology. He is an active member of major national and international hematology associations and plays a vital role in formulating clinical consensus and guidelines in China.

publication profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Zhi Guo exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding medical researcher and clinician. With nearly 25 years of clinical experience in hematology and over 20 years in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, he stands out as a national leader in this field. His performance of more than 1,300 transplants, along with a strong academic footprint, including 10 SCI-indexed publications in 2024–2025, demonstrates both depth and innovation in his research. He has also contributed to national expert consensus and clinical guidelines, particularly in CAR-T therapy and intestinal microecology. Dr. Guo’s leadership roles across national academic committees and his active membership in the American Society of Hematology further highlight his international impact and collaborative influence.

Areas for Improvement:

While Dr. Guo’s achievements in clinical practice and research are significant, opportunities exist to increase global visibility by expanding his research collaborations internationally and publishing in higher-impact journals beyond regional scopes. Additionally, while five books have been authored, the addition of patents or translational innovations could enhance his profile in the realm of research commercialization and practical medical technologies.

Education :

Dr. Zhi Guo holds a strong academic background in clinical medicine and medical research. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Medicine from Tongji Medical College in 2000. Subsequently, he pursued his postgraduate medical studies at the Third Military Medical University, completing it in 2007. His academic journey culminated with the attainment of a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from Wuhan University of Science and Technology. His education laid a strong foundation in hematology and clinical research methodologies. Each step in his educational path was marked by an emphasis on academic rigor and clinical competence, preparing him for a leadership role in medical science and hematologic research. His multidisciplinary background has enabled him to integrate clinical insights with advanced laboratory-based innovations, contributing to national-level guidelines and the development of cutting-edge CAR-T cell therapies and transplantation techniques.

Experience :

Dr. Zhi Guo brings nearly 25 years of clinical, academic, and leadership experience in the field of hematology. He began his professional journey at the PLA Army General Hospital, where he served from 2000 to 2018. During this period, he honed his clinical and procedural expertise in managing complex hematologic disorders. Since 2018, he has been leading the Department of Hematology at Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital as Director, Academic Leader, and Chief Physician. His rich experience includes more than 1,300 hematopoietic stem cell transplantations, encompassing autologous, allogeneic, and CAR-T integrated therapies. His leadership extends beyond clinical care, as he also mentors postgraduate medical students and leads multiple national and institutional research projects. Dr. Guo’s practical experience is balanced with his strategic contributions to medical consensus formulation and research-driven policy initiatives in cancer and immune-hematological disorders.

Research Focus :

Dr. Zhi Guo’s research centers on hematologic malignancies and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, particularly the integration of cellular immunotherapy such as CAR-T cell treatments. His recent work includes pioneering anti-CD19, anti-CD7, and anti-BCMA CAR-T therapies for lymphomas and leukemias. Additionally, he has investigated the interplay between microbiota and immune modulation in transplantation, highlighting the role of gut and oral microbiomes in patient outcomes. His contributions have influenced the development of clinical guidelines for microbiota-related diagnostics and treatments in oncology. With more than 10 high-impact journal publications and ongoing projects in translational medicine, Dr. Guo’s work combines laboratory innovation with patient-centered applications. He has also authored expert consensus documents and national guidelines, helping shape China’s hematology and transplantation protocols. His commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, clinical innovation, and translational research underscores his leading role in advancing modern hematology.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 In vitro validation of anti-CD19 CAR-T cells with LSD1 shRNA for DLBCL – Front Immunol, 2025

  2. 🩸 Case of T-ALL treated with chemo + anti-CD7 CAR-T (retroviral vector) – Front Immunol, 2025

  3. 👶 Shaping oral/intestinal microbiota & immunity in first 1,000 days of life – Front Pediatr, 2025

  4. 💩 Fecal microbiota transplantation in acute GVHD treatment – J Cancer Res Ther, 2024

  5. 🔬 Chinese consensus on gut microecology lab standards – Exp Ther Med, 2024

  6. 🧪 2024 Chinese guidelines for intestinal microecology in cancer – J Cancer Res Ther, 2024

  7. 🧫 First MM case treated with ASCT + anti-BCMA CAR-T (retrovirus) – Heliyon, 2024

  8. 🧾 Rapid response in relapsed FL to anti-CD19 CAR-T with CMV – Int Immunopharmacol, 2024

  9. 🦷 Prognostic impact of oral microbiome in cancer survival – meta-analysis – Syst Rev, 2024

  10. 🧍‍⚕️ Expert consensus on gut microbiome & hematopoietic stem cell transplantation – Clin Transplant, 2024

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Dr. Zhi Guo is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. His combination of clinical excellence, academic leadership, and impactful research in hematology and stem cell transplantation positions him among the top contributors in this specialized field. With ongoing research in CAR-T cell therapies, microbiota influence on transplantation, and immuno-oncology, Dr. Guo continues to shape the future of hematologic cancer care. Recognizing his contributions with this award would be both fitting and encouraging for continued innovation in this vital area of medicine.