Varsha Rathore | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

Published on 11/11/202511/11/2025 by Cell Biologist

Dr. Varsha Rathore | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei 100233 | Taiwan

Dr. Varsha Rathore’s research focuses on elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer cell migration, invasion, and survival, with a particular emphasis on the role of CASK (Calcium/Calmodulin-dependent Serine Protein Kinase) in prostate cancer progression. Her doctoral work explores how CASK promotes tumor cell motility and invasiveness independent of TGF-β signaling, contributing to a deeper understanding of tumor metastasis. Additionally, she investigates the involvement of NLRX1 in regulating proliferation, invasion, and survival pathways in prostate cancer cells, offering insights into novel therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. Her expertise spans cell culture, molecular biology, and biochemical assays, including protein expression, purification, ubiquitination, kinase, and PARylation assays, as well as metabolic analysis using Seahorse technology. She has presented her findings at international conferences, including the 19th World Congress of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology and the 38th Joint Academic Conference on Biomedicine. Through her research, Dr. Rathore contributes significantly to the field of molecular oncology and pharmacology, advancing knowledge on how signaling proteins orchestrate cancer progression and identifying potential molecular targets for therapeutic intervention.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications:

Rathore, V., Cheng, C.-Y., Lin, C.-Y., Chang, C.-R., & Lin, W.-W. (2025). CASK promotes prostate cancer progression via kinase-dependent activation of AKT. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 311(Pt 2), 143965.

Rathore, V., & Lin, W.-W. (2025). Decoding SIGLEC12 in bladder cancer: In silico profiling of expression, tumor–immune interactions, and prognostic impact. Medicina, 61(11), 1894.

Mishra, M., Rathore, V., Sahu, S., & Sahoo, H. (2019). The contribution of nanostructures towards the wing patterning of yellow Catopsilia pomona: How it differs from the lime. Microscopy, 68(4), 289–300.

Farhad Ghorbani | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Published on 31/07/202531/07/2025 by Cell Biologist

Assist. Prof. Dr. Farhad Ghorbani | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Farhad Ghorbani | Shiraz University of Medical Sciences ,Shiraz,Iran | Iran

Dr. Farhad Ghorbani is an esteemed Assistant Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran. With over two decades of clinical and academic experience, he has significantly contributed to the fields of oral pathology, trauma, and surgical interventions. A graduate of Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Dr. Ghorbani later specialized further at Shiraz University. His dedication to advancing clinical knowledge is reflected in over a dozen high-impact peer-reviewed publications, focusing on craniofacial abnormalities, surgical outcomes, and rare oral diseases. He is an active researcher with a Scopus Author ID and ORCID, consistently contributing to scientific journals like BMC Oral Health, Scientific Reports, and Maxillofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. His multidisciplinary collaborations have led to enhanced diagnostic techniques and patient outcomes. Dr. Ghorbani is recognized for both his innovative research and his commitment to medical education.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

Google Scholar

Education:

Dr. Ghorbani began his medical journey at Kerman University of Medical Sciences, earning his professional doctorate in dentistry (1992–1998). Following years of clinical practice, he advanced his academic and surgical expertise by joining Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in 2013, where he underwent specialized training in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and served as an Assistant Professor during his educational tenure (2013–2018). His academic training focused on maxillofacial pathology, surgical techniques, and interdisciplinary diagnostics. The combination of strong foundational medical education and advanced surgical specialization has equipped him with both the theoretical depth and clinical acumen to lead impactful research. His training underlines a commitment to academic excellence and lifelong learning, which is further reflected in his scholarly contributions. Dr. Ghorbani’s educational background bridges foundational dental sciences with advanced surgical innovation.

Experience:

Since December 2018, Dr. Farhad Ghorbani has held the position of Assistant Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran. His career blends clinical practice, research, and teaching. Over the years, he has led numerous studies exploring craniofacial morphology, surgical outcomes, dental trauma, and maxillofacial pathologies. He mentors postgraduate students and collaborates with interdisciplinary teams, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and surgical care. His work in both rural and urban settings has exposed him to a wide spectrum of maxillofacial cases, enriching his clinical insights. He actively contributes to improving surgical protocols and patient care standards. Dr. Ghorbani’s experience also includes academic publishing, peer reviews, and participation in scientific forums. He is recognized for his analytical approach and evidence-based practice. His long-standing affiliation with reputed institutions and research groups underscores his strong leadership in oral surgery and academic scholarship.

Research Focus:

Dr. Ghorbani’s primary research interests lie in oral pathology, craniofacial surgery, dentoalveolar trauma, and radiological diagnostics. His work often combines clinical case reports with retrospective analysis, offering insights into rare presentations such as parathyroid carcinoma-linked jaw tumors, and developmental anomalies like concha bullosa. A hallmark of his research is his ability to identify atypical symptoms and connect them with broader systemic conditions, ensuring early diagnosis and management. He has conducted fractal analysis studies to evaluate bone quality, and he explores patient-centered outcomes, such as satisfaction post-rhinoplasty and the psychological impacts of facial surgery. Additionally, his research evaluates the intersection of dental surgery with systemic health—evident in studies related to auditory changes post-orthognathic surgery or the implications of COVID-19 on dental care. Through evidence-based methods and innovative case analyses, Dr. Ghorbani has positioned himself as a thought leader in interdisciplinary oral and maxillofacial research.

Publications Top Notes:

Brown tumors of both jaws as the initial manifestation of parathyroid carcinoma (BMC Oral Health, 2025)
Distribution and laterality of concha bullosa across cranial skeletal types (Maxillofacial Plastic Surg, 2025)
Calcifying Odontogenic Cyst in Posterior Maxilla: A Case Report (Journal of Dentistry Shiraz, 2025)
Central giant cell granuloma mimicking fibro-osseous lesion and hemangioma (J Med Case Reports, 2024)
Fractal CT analysis of mandibular condyles in class III malocclusion (Scientific Reports, 2023)
Patient dissatisfaction following rhinoplasty: A 10-year Iranian study (Maxillofacial Plastic Surg, 2023)
Correlation between impacted third molar and blood group (Int J of Dentistry, 2021)
Effects of orthognathic surgery on auditory function (Maxillofacial Plastic Surg, 2021)
Evaluation of alveolar fractures in trauma patients in Iran (BMC Oral Health, 2021)
Anxiety in patients undergoing mandibular third molar extraction (J Oral Research & Review, 2020)

Conclusion:

In summary, Dr. Farhad Ghorbani embodies the qualities of a deeply committed, analytically skilled, and academically active oral and maxillofacial surgeon. His research is directly informed by his clinical experience, allowing him to bridge theory and practice effectively. His contributions have enriched the literature on oral pathology, surgical complications, facial aesthetics, and patient psychology following treatment interventions. While there are opportunities to expand the scope and scale of his work through more robust methodologies and international collaboration, his existing portfolio already reflects a high standard of academic and clinical integration. Given his track record, ongoing research productivity, and evident commitment to innovation and education, Dr. Ghorbani is a strong and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With continued growth in research leadership and expanded global outreach, he is poised to make an even greater impact in the years ahead.

Yanlan Wang | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Published on 16/06/202516/06/2025 by Cell Biologist

Dr. Yanlan Wang | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yanlan Wang, Stanford, United States

Dr. Yanlan Wang is a distinguished postdoctoral research fellow at Stanford University’s Department of Pathology. She works in the esteemed Dr. Gerald Crabtree’s lab, where her research revolves around leveraging molecular glues to reprogram cancer drivers and trigger apoptosis. With a strong background in immuno-oncology, antibody engineering, and small molecule therapeutics, Dr. Wang has made significant contributions to targeted cancer therapies. Her interdisciplinary collaborations, notably with Dr. Nathanael Gray’s group, have explored the role of transcription factor complex-inducing compounds (TCIPs) in MLL-rearranged leukemia. Dr. Wang brings a rich international research experience from China and the U.S., with a career spanning translational medicine, biotechnology innovation, and academic excellence. She is known for her rigorous approach to scientific inquiry, collaborative spirit, and prolific publication record. Her passion for understanding and overcoming the mechanisms of cancer resistance positions her as a future leader in oncology drug development and precision medicine.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

Outstanding Research Focus
Dr. Wang’s work on molecular glues and transcription factor modulators represents cutting-edge approaches in cancer therapy, especially in targeting previously undruggable pathways.
High Impact Publications
With multiple first-author and co-corresponding author papers (e.g., J Immunol Methods 2025, Leukemia & Lymphoma 2020, Clin Pharmacol Ther 2021), Dr. Wang has demonstrated a strong track record in both fundamental and translational cancer research.
Innovation & Translational Impact
Her efforts in bispecific antibody engineering, IL-15 therapeutics, and AKR1C3-targeted prodrugs show clear applications in oncology drug development, bridging the lab and clinic.
Prestigious Collaborations
Collaborating with renowned researchers such as Dr. Gerald Crabtree and Dr. Nathanael Gray at Stanford indicates high confidence and integration in world-class research circles.
Recognition & Awards
She has received the Coxe Fellowship at Stanford and multiple merit-based scholarships, highlighting academic excellence and innovation.
Leadership and Multidisciplinary Skills
Dr. Wang has led several projects, authored high-level papers, and mentored junior researchers, showcasing both technical and leadership capability.

🔄 Areas for Improvement:

Greater International Presentation Exposure
Although she has strong publication credentials, more visibility through international oral presentations, keynote addresses, or panel roles would amplify her leadership profile.
Independent Grant Record
While she is currently in a postdoctoral role, seeking independent funding (e.g., K99/R00, early-career PI grants) would position her more competitively for independent investigator status.
Patent or Commercial Translation
Given the translational nature of her work, pursuit of intellectual property filings or biotech partnerships would further highlight impact.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Yanlan Wang began her academic journey at Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, where she earned her MBBS (M.D. equivalent) in June 2012. She continued at The Second Xiangya Hospital for her clinical residency, completing her M.S. in June 2015. Her pursuit of scientific excellence led her to earn a doctorate (M.D. equivalent to PhD) from Sun Yat-sen University in June 2018, with a research focus on microbial immunology and tumor biology. This diverse educational background gave her a solid foundation in both clinical medicine and biomedical research, allowing her to bridge translational gaps in cancer research. Her early training emphasized immunotherapy, molecular biology, and oncology, all of which paved the way for her postdoctoral work in cutting-edge labs. Her education reflects a consistent upward trajectory, marked by prestigious institutions, interdisciplinary training, and a seamless integration of clinical and scientific disciplines.

🔬 Experience:

Dr. Yanlan Wang is currently a postdoctoral research fellow in Dr. Gerald Crabtree’s lab at Stanford University, where she focuses on manipulating cancer cell pathways using molecular glues. Her prior research in China included pivotal roles in biotechnology innovation, including bispecific antibody engineering, prodrug design, and immune-oncology drug development. She has also collaborated extensively with Dr. Nathanael Gray’s lab at Stanford, exploring the therapeutic potential of TCIPs in leukemia. Dr. Wang’s hands-on experience includes multiplex screening platforms, flow cytometry, in vivo tumor models, and translational immunotherapy development. Over the years, she has taken leadership roles in preclinical projects, manuscript authorship, and international scientific presentations. Her diverse roles—from clinical residency to laboratory innovation—reflect her capability to translate complex scientific findings into therapeutic strategies. Dr. Wang has also mentored junior researchers and worked across multiple disciplines, underscoring her adaptability, leadership potential, and deep commitment to cancer research.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Yanlan Wang’s excellence has been recognized through several prestigious awards. At Stanford, she received the Coxe Fellowship in 2021, honoring outstanding postdoctoral researchers. During her doctoral training, she earned the Special Award of Merit for the BJ-001 Project at BJ Bioscience Inc. in 2019 for her impactful translational research. Her academic merit was consistently acknowledged through the Bidi Scholarship (2016–2017) and Daxiang Scholarship (2015–2016) at Sun Yat-sen University. These honors underscore her commitment to scientific excellence, innovation, and translational impact in oncology and immunotherapy. Her ability to receive awards across both academic and industrial settings highlights her versatility and the real-world relevance of her work. These distinctions serve as a testament to her leadership in cancer drug development, collaborative effectiveness, and contribution to next-generation therapeutic discoveries.

🔍 Research Focus:

Dr. Yanlan Wang’s research lies at the intersection of cancer biology, molecular pharmacology, and immunotherapy. At Stanford, she investigates how molecular glues can be used to hijack cancer drivers and activate apoptosis, offering a novel route for targeted cancer therapies. Her work involves multiplex molecular glue screening, understanding protein degradation pathways, and designing synthetic lethality strategies. In collaboration with Dr. Nathanael Gray, she is also studying Transcription factor Complex-Inducing Compounds (TCIPs) for the treatment of MLL-rearranged leukemia, a particularly aggressive form of blood cancer. Prior to this, her research focused on bispecific antibodies, prodrugs, and IL-15 based immunotherapeutics, with a vision to decouple efficacy from toxicity. Through a blend of basic science and translational applications, she aims to rewire oncogenic signaling pathways and enhance anti-tumor immunity. Her research combines drug discovery, systems biology, and precision oncology, pushing the boundaries of targeted cancer treatment.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

🔬 Quantitative flow cytometry using quantitative streptavidin-protein G-biotin beads (qBeads) – J Immunol Methods, 2025
🧬 A Bivalent Molecular Glue Linking Lysine Acetyltransferases to Oncogene-directed Cell Death – Cell (revising)
💉 Enhance IL15 anti-tumor efficacy by inhibiting its negative feedback mechanism – (in preparation)
⚛️ Decouple the toxicity and efficacy of BJ-001, an integrin targeting IL-15 – AACR Abstract, 2019
🔄 Decoupling the toxicity and efficacy of immunotherapeutics – SITC Abstract, 2019
🧪 An AKR1C3-specific prodrug with potent anti-tumor activities against T-ALL – Leukemia & Lymphoma, 2020
🧫 A novel AKR1C3 specific prodrug TH3424 with potent anti-tumor activity in liver cancer – Clin Pharmacol Ther, 2021
🧲 A GPC3-targeting Bispecific Antibody, GPC3-S-Fab, with Potent Cytotoxicity – J Vis Exp, 2018
🧠 Identification of anti-CD16a single domain antibodies and their application in bispecific antibodies – Cancer Biol Ther, 2020
🧿 Bp-Bs, a novel T-cell engaging bispecific antibody with biparatopic Her2 binding – Mol Ther Oncolytics, 2019
🧰 A novel multi-functional anti-CEA-IL15 molecule displays potent anti-tumor activities – Drug Des Devel Ther, 2018
🧠 A single domain based anti-Her2 antibody has potent anti-tumor activities – Transl Oncol, 2018

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Yanlan Wang is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. Her contributions to cancer therapeutics through novel molecular approaches, her collaborations with globally renowned labs, and her publication record reflect a researcher of exceptional caliber and promise. With a deep understanding of tumor biology, a commitment to innovation, and a growing leadership presence in oncology research, she is not only suitable for the award but stands as a strong role model for future biomedical researchers.

Annoor Awadasseid | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Published on 26/01/202526/01/2025 by Cell Biologist

Dr. Annoor Awadasseid | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Annoor Awadasseid , Zhejiang University of Technology , Sudan

Dr. Annoor Awadasseid is a dedicated biochemist and molecular biologist specializing in medicinal chemistry, with a profound focus on cancer treatment. With a rich background in the exploration of novel small-molecule compounds, his research is at the forefront of developing potential therapeutic drugs for oncology. Dr. Awadasseid has made significant contributions to biochemistry, molecular biology, and cancer therapy, integrating his expertise to evaluate promising compounds. Passionate about enhancing patient outcomes, he collaborates extensively with interdisciplinary teams and mentors junior researchers. Currently, he is a Senior Researcher at Hangzhou Qingzhenghong Technology Co., Ltd., where he leads oncology-focused R&D initiatives, developing novel cancer therapies. He has authored numerous high-impact publications, showcasing his commitment to advancing therapeutic approaches for cancer care.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Annoor Awadasseid exhibits outstanding qualities as a researcher in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology, particularly within cancer therapeutics. His expertise in evaluating small-molecule compounds for cancer treatment is evident through his advanced knowledge of biochemical processes, medicinal chemistry, and molecular biology techniques. Dr. Awadasseid has significantly contributed to the design and development of novel therapeutic agents, particularly targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint pathway, which is critical for cancer immunotherapy. His ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and mentor junior researchers demonstrates a strong leadership role in advancing scientific knowledge and fostering innovation. His extensive publication record in prestigious journals, alongside the recognition he has received via multiple scholarships and awards, further attests to the high impact of his research and contributions to improving patient care.

Areas for Improvement:

While Dr. Awadasseid’s research is impressive and impactful, further diversification of research methodologies could enhance his work. For instance, incorporating more cutting-edge computational techniques and expanding collaborations with clinical research teams could accelerate the translation of his lab-based discoveries into clinical applications. Additionally, increasing visibility in international scientific conferences would allow Dr. Awadasseid to expand his professional network, share insights, and potentially collaborate on global-scale projects. Engaging in multidisciplinary research that spans beyond oncology could also create new avenues for discovery and broaden his research impact.

Education:

Dr. Awadasseid’s academic journey includes a Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry from the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (2017-2020), where he specialized in the design and evaluation of therapeutic compounds. Prior to that, he earned another Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Dalian Medical University (2014-2017). His earlier studies culminated in a Master’s degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Northeast Normal University (2012-2014). These rigorous educational experiences have honed his skills in biochemical and molecular techniques, which form the foundation for his groundbreaking research in cancer therapy. Dr. Awadasseid’s extensive training across multiple renowned institutions equipped him with the tools to explore novel therapeutic pathways, ultimately paving the way for his contributions to drug discovery and cancer treatment.

Experience:

Dr. Awadasseid has over a decade of experience in biochemistry, molecular biology, and medicinal chemistry. Following his postdoctoral fellowship at Zhejiang University of Technology (2020-2024), where he focused on small-molecule drug evaluation for cancer therapy, he became a Senior Researcher at Hangzhou Qingzhenghong Technology Co., Ltd. (2024-present). In this role, he leads R&D initiatives, specializing in the discovery and development of novel small-molecule compounds for oncology. His work includes evaluating drug efficacy through preclinical models, optimizing therapeutic candidates, and integrating interdisciplinary insights to drive advancements in targeted cancer therapies. Dr. Awadasseid’s expertise spans a variety of techniques, including CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, flow cytometry, and qPCR, supporting his pivotal contributions to improving cancer treatment and patient outcomes. He also mentors junior researchers and contributes to intellectual property creation, including patents and publications in prestigious journals.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Awadasseid has received prestigious accolades throughout his career. He was awarded the CAS-TWAS President’s Fellowship Programme (2017-2020) for his Ph.D. studies at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, recognizing his potential for significant scientific contributions. Additionally, he received the Liaoning Provincial Government Scholarship (2014-2017) while pursuing his Ph.D. at Dalian Medical University. The Chinese Government Scholarship (2012-2014) was awarded to him for his Master’s degree studies at Northeast Normal University, reflecting his academic excellence and commitment to advancing research in biochemistry and molecular biology. These scholarships and awards highlight Dr. Awadasseid’s dedication to his field, his research accomplishments, and his potential to make lasting impacts in the realm of cancer therapy and medicinal chemistry.

Research Focus:

Dr. Awadasseid’s research is centered on the development and evaluation of novel small-molecule compounds for cancer treatment, specifically focusing on their mechanisms and potential as therapeutic agents. His work aims to identify promising candidates that could enhance patient outcomes in oncology. He has a strong interest in the design and synthesis of therapeutic molecules, particularly those targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway and other key molecules involved in cancer progression. Through extensive preclinical testing, Dr. Awadasseid evaluates the efficacy of these compounds, with a particular emphasis on their ability to target specific cancer pathways, including apoptosis, immune response modulation, and signal transduction. His research employs a wide range of molecular and biochemical techniques, including CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, qPCR, flow cytometry, and various microscopy methods, to assess the therapeutic potential of novel compounds. Ultimately, Dr. Awadasseid aims to contribute to the development of more effective, targeted therapies for cancer patients.

Publication Top Notes:

Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel TMPRSS2-PROTACs with florosubstituted 4-guanidino-N-phenylbenzamide derivative ligands. 🔬💊
Design, synthesis, and evaluation of antitumor activity of 2-arylmethoxy-4-(2-fluoromethyl-biphenyl-3-ylmethoxy) benzylamine derivatives as PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. 🧬💥
Small molecule and PROTAC molecule experiments in vitro and in vivo, focusing on mouse PD-L1 and human PD-L1 differences as targets. 🔬🐭
Recent advances and mechanisms of action of PD-L1 degraders as potential therapeutic agents. 💡📚
Design, synthesis, anti-tumor activity and mechanism of novel PROTACs as degraders of PD-L1 and inhibitors of PD-1/PD-L1 interaction. 🔧🎯
Current studies and future promises of PD-1 signal inhibitors in cervical cancer therapy. 🎗️🔬
A Review on the Anticancer Activity of Carbazole-based Tricyclic Compounds. 📖🔍
Design, Synthesis, and Antitumor Activity Evaluation of 2-Arylmethoxy-4-(2, 2′-dihalogen-substituted biphenyl-3-ylmethoxy) Benzylamine Derivatives as Potent PD-1/PD-L1 Inhibitors. 🧪🧫
PD-L1 dimerisation induced by biphenyl derivatives mediates anti-breast cancer activity via the non-immune PD-L1–AKT–mTOR/Bcl2 pathway. 🧬💥
Design, synthesis and bioactivity of novel naphthalimide-benzotriazole conjugates against A549 cells via targeting BCL2 G-quadruplex and inducing autophagy. 🧪⚡

Conclusion:

Dr. Awadasseid is undoubtedly a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his exceptional contributions to the field of cancer research. His innovative approach to discovering therapeutic small-molecule compounds, coupled with his ability to collaborate across disciplines, positions him as a leader in the biochemistry and molecular biology community. By continuing to refine his research techniques and expanding his collaborations, Dr. Awadasseid is likely to further enhance the scope and impact of his work. His ultimate goal of improving patient care and treatment modalities places him in alignment with the mission of the Best Researcher Award, making him a fitting candidate for this prestigious recognition.

Paola Zagami | Cancer Cell Biology | Young Scientist Award

Published on 18/01/202518/01/2025 by Cell Biologist

Dr. Paola Zagami | Cancer Cell Biology | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Paola Zagami , IEO european institute of oncology University of Milan , Italy

Dr. Paola Zagami is an accomplished Italian physician and medical oncologist currently working at the European Institute of Oncology (IEO) in Milan. She specializes in clinical and research oncology, focusing on breast cancer. With a strong academic background and passion for advancing cancer treatment, Dr. Zagami has contributed to numerous studies on innovative therapies, particularly immunotherapy and endocrine treatments in breast cancer. She is recognized for her expertise in cancer genomics and the impact of immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer treatment. Dr. Zagami’s work reflects a blend of clinical practice and research, as she actively collaborates with experts in the oncology field to improve patient outcomes.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Paola Zagami is an exceptional candidate for the Research for Young Scientist Award due to her profound contributions to oncology research, particularly in breast cancer treatment and clinical trials. Her work on immune checkpoint inhibitors, endocrine therapies, and the genomics of breast cancer demonstrates her expertise in precision oncology. Dr. Zagami has been involved in high-impact publications and collaborative international studies, such as her work on metastatic triple-negative breast cancer and the development of novel cancer therapies. Her clinical and research skills, combined with her ability to contribute to the scientific community through publications and awards, make her a highly qualified and promising young scientist. Furthermore, her commitment to gender equity in pharmacological research and clinical trials aligns with the future direction of oncology research, making her a strong contender for the award.

Areas for Improvement:

While Dr. Zagami has made significant strides in breast cancer research, there are opportunities to broaden her research focus to include other cancer types, enabling her to contribute to a wider array of oncological studies. Additionally, further involvement in leading large-scale clinical trials could enhance her leadership in the field. Expanding her research network internationally could facilitate more diverse collaborations and broader research impact.

Education:

Dr. Zagami earned her medical degree (MD) and has since pursued extensive education in the field of oncology. In 2021, she received a scholarship from the IEO-Monzino Foundation, focusing on clinical research in oncology. She further honed her expertise by earning the AMMI award in 2023 for her work on gender equity in pharmacological research. This education in clinical research positions Dr. Zagami as a thought leader in her field, with a commitment to investigating new treatments and approaches in cancer care.

Experience:

Dr. Zagami’s professional career began as an oncological clinical researcher, where she focused on the development of targeted therapies and the clinical impact of cancer treatments. Since 2024, she has been serving as a medical oncologist at the European Institute of Oncology (IEO) in Milan, contributing to both clinical and research activities. Throughout her career, Dr. Zagami has gained experience in advanced oncology treatments, particularly in immunotherapy and endocrine therapies for breast cancer. She works closely with interdisciplinary teams to design and conduct clinical trials, improving personalized cancer care. Dr. Zagami’s research collaborations have resulted in several publications in prestigious journals, reflecting her expertise and commitment to enhancing cancer treatment strategies.

Experience:

Research Focus:

Dr. Zagami’s research focus is primarily centered around the treatment of breast cancer, particularly in the areas of immunotherapy, endocrine therapy, and personalized medicine. She has been involved in research on immune checkpoint inhibitors for metastatic triple-negative breast cancer and the clinical implications of genomic alterations in breast cancer. Dr. Zagami is also dedicated to investigating the safety and efficacy of novel cancer therapies, particularly in early-phase clinical trials. Her research interests also include the study of gender equity in pharmacological research and the integration of molecular diagnostics in clinical trials for metastatic breast cancer. She is committed to advancing precision oncology by studying the genetic and clinical landscape of breast cancer to enhance patient outcomes and treatment strategies.

Publications Top Notes:

Immunotherapy in the treatment landscape of hormone receptor-positive (HR+) early breast cancer: is new data clinical practice changing?
Triple negative breast cancer: pitfalls and progress.
Association of PIK3CA Mutation With Pathologic Complete Response and Outcome by Hormone Receptor Status and Intrinsic Subtype in Early-Stage ERBB2/HER2-Positive Breast Cancer.
Endocrine therapy for early breast cancer in the era of oral selective estrogen receptor degraders: challenges and future perspectives.
Effect of age on safety and efficacy of novel cancer drugs investigated in early-phase clinical trials.
Immunotherapy for patients with metastatic triple-negative inflammatory breast cancer (INCORPORATE): An international cohort study.

Conclusion:

Dr. Paola Zagami is undoubtedly a rising star in the field of oncology. Her combination of clinical experience, research accomplishments, and passion for improving cancer treatments positions her as a highly deserving candidate for the Research for Young Scientist Award. As she continues to advance her work in oncology, her future contributions have the potential to significantly impact cancer care and research globally. With some further expansion in her research focus and leadership roles, Dr. Zagami is poised to be an influential figure in oncology for years to come.