Yi Zhang | Tumor Immunology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Yi Zhang | Tumor Immunology | Best Researcher Award

The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University | China

Prof. Yi Zhang is a globally recognized leader in genetically engineered cell therapy and translational immuno-oncology research. Over the past 36 years, he has made pioneering contributions to overcoming major barriers in cell therapy and advancing its clinical applications worldwide. His extensive research has produced 290 SCI-indexed publications, including 11 ESI top 1% highly cited papers, accumulating more than 14,000 citations and an h-index of 66. Prof. Zhang’s groundbreaking innovations include identifying the novel CAR-T therapeutic target CD276 for solid tumors, developing gene-editing technologies to reduce PD-1–mediated immunosuppression, and creating novel cytokines and culture protocols that enhance immune cell stemness and anti-tumor function. He has also led the development of CAR-T cells that normalize tumor vasculature and improve infiltration, significantly enhancing therapeutic efficacy. With 46 invention patents (17 authorized) and over 80 million yuan in technology transfers, his work bridges basic science and clinical application through an integrated “industry-university-research” platform. As principal investigator, he has directed more than 52 clinical trials—29 targeting solid tumors, the highest number globally—resulting in improved outcomes and even clinical cures for advanced cancer patients. His leadership in establishing national standards and safety protocols has also shaped the regulation and global best practices in cell therapy.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications:

Gao, Y., Liu, S., Huang, Y., Wang, H., Zhao, Y., Cui, X., Peng, Y., Li, F., & Zhang, Y. (2024, December 3). CAR T cells engineered to secrete IFNκ induce tumor ferroptosis via an IFNAR/STAT1/ACSL4 axis. Cancer Immunology Research.

Huang, Y., Cao, R., Wang, S., Chen, X., Ping, Y., & Zhang, Y. (2025, December 31). In vivo CAR-T cell therapy: New breakthroughs for cell-based tumor immunotherapy. Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics.

Li, J., Wang, D., Zhang, Z., Sun, K., Lei, Q., Zhao, X., Huang, J., Wang, L., & Zhang, Y. (2025, June 1). Serum carcinoembryonic antigen levels as a predictive biomarker for cytokine-induced killer cell immunotherapy in patients with colorectal cancer. The Journal of Immunology.

Lian, J., Yue, Y., Yu, W., & Zhang, Y. (2025, March 5). Correction: Immunosenescence: A key player in cancer development. Journal of Hematology & Oncology.

Ping, Y., Fan, Q., & Zhang, Y. (2025, February). Modulating lipid metabolism improves tumor immunotherapy. Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer.

Hu, W., Li, F., Liang, Y., Liu, S., Wang, S., Shen, C., Zhao, Y., Wang, H., & Zhang, Y. (2025, January). Glut3 overexpression improves environmental glucose uptake and antitumor efficacy of CAR-T cells in solid tumors. Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer.

Mingkun Yu | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mingkun Yu | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mingkun Yu , Binzhou Medical College Affiliated Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital(Binzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital) , China

Dr. Mingkun Yu is an Associate Chief Physician at Binzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, affiliated with Binzhou Medical College, China. He is an expert in integrating evidence-based medicine with traditional Chinese and Western medical practices, especially within oncology and ophthalmology. With over five years of clinical experience, Dr. Yu has made significant contributions to the field through impactful clinical research, trial designs, and methodological innovation. He is the recipient of a National Natural Science Foundation of China project and has led the development of national-level guidelines. Dr. Yu’s publications have gained high visibility, with citations and downloads from prestigious journals like BMJ. He collaborates with renowned experts worldwide and actively contributes as a peer reviewer for SCI journals. Known for his meticulous clinical approach and research rigor, Dr. Yu is a rising star in integrative medical science, particularly in addressing patient compliance and advancing myopia-related research strategies.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Academic Excellence
    Dr. Yu has earned advanced degrees from top-tier traditional Chinese medicine institutions in China, culminating in a PhD focused on integrated clinical medicine—a rare and interdisciplinary specialty.

  2. Proven Research Record

    • Published 7 SCI-indexed papers (including in BMJ and Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology) and 5 Chinese core journal papers.

    • First/corresponding author impact factor: 18.3; co-author cumulative impact factor: 112.

    • One article with 9248 downloads, another cited 66 times—demonstrating strong academic reach and relevance.

  3. Research Leadership

    • Designed and led multiple RCTs, cohort studies, and cluster RCTs.

    • Principal investigator of a National Natural Science Foundation of China project.

    • Spearheaded the national-level guideline on myopia—a major public health concern in Asia.

  4. Innovative Contributions

    • Introduced target value analysis and conducted extensive patient compliance research in clinical trials.

    • Integrated evidence-based methods with traditional Chinese medicine, a cutting-edge niche in global medical research.

  5. Collaborations & Peer Review

    • Collaborates with global leaders such as Paul Little, Gordon Guyatt, and Lehana Thabane.

    • Reviewer for top SCI journals including European Journal of Integrative Medicine and BMC Geriatrics.

⚙️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Global Dissemination & Outreach

    • Dr. Yu could further enhance his profile by increasing international speaking engagements, attending more global medical symposia, and joining international research societies.

  2. Books or Monographs

    • No books published yet. Authoring clinical reference books or practitioner guides would boost both practical impact and professional visibility.

  3. Translational Research and Patents

    • With only one published patent, there is scope to convert more research findings into innovative tools, treatments, or technologies for broader clinical application.

  4. Professional Memberships

    • Active memberships in professional research or clinical bodies could enhance his professional network and visibility in award circuits.

📚 Education:

Dr. Yu earned his Master’s degree in Evidence-Based Medicine (Oncology) from Beijing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2021. His academic journey culminated in a PhD in Clinical Medicine (Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine) from Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2024. Throughout his education, Dr. Yu focused on bridging the gap between traditional Chinese therapeutic principles and contemporary Western medical methodologies. His doctoral research emphasized designing clinical trials, evaluating treatment efficacy using systematic review and meta-analysis, and developing methodologies for improving patient outcomes. His educational background also provided him with comprehensive knowledge in oncology, ophthalmology, acupuncture, and behavioral health, preparing him to implement innovative, integrative solutions in clinical practice. He was mentored by leading figures in evidence-based medicine and engaged in collaborative studies with international researchers, further enriching his global research perspective.

🩺 Experience:

With more than 5 years of experience in clinical medicine, Dr. Mingkun Yu has become a prominent practitioner and researcher in integrated traditional Chinese and Western medical care. As an Associate Chief Physician at Binzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, he leads and participates in high-level clinical research projects, including randomized controlled trials and cohort studies. He has contributed to over 7 national-level research projects and served as principal investigator in hospital-based clinical studies. Dr. Yu’s areas of expertise include patient compliance strategies in oncology, evidence synthesis in myopia prevention, and methodological development for clinical trials. He is a frequent presenter at national and international conferences and has served as a reviewer for SCI-indexed journals. Dr. Yu is also involved in writing clinical practice guidelines and has been recognized for his scientific contributions through research awards and publications in high-impact journals.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Mingkun Yu’s research lies at the intersection of evidence-based medicine and integrated Chinese and Western clinical practices. His key focus areas include patient compliance in oncology, risk factor identification and prevention strategies for myopia, and designing robust clinical trials like RCTs, cohort, and cluster studies. He actively develops and applies systematic review methodologies, meta-analyses, and guideline development processes to ensure high-impact clinical outcomes. Dr. Yu has innovated in the area of patient compliance by applying qualitative synthesis and target value analysis, improving retention and adherence in clinical trials. He is particularly invested in the development of guidelines for myopia in children and adolescents and has published widely in SCI journals. His collaboration with global experts such as Paul Little, Gordon Guyatt, and Lehana Thabane strengthens the international relevance of his work. Through this multifaceted research approach, Dr. Yu aims to bridge traditional wisdom with modern scientific rigor.

📝 Publications Top Notes:

📄 Pseudomyopia as an independent risk factor for myopia onset: a prospective cohort study among school-aged childrenBritish Journal of Ophthalmology, 2024
📘 The Process factors and improvement strategies of patient compliance and retention in clinical trials: a synthesis of qualitative researchInplasy Report, 2021
📚 Berberine for diarrhea in children and adults: a systematic review and meta-analysisTherapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology, 2020

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Mingkun Yu stands out as a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his cross-disciplinary research integrating traditional Chinese and Western medicine, his leadership in national clinical trials, impactful publications, and commitment to clinical innovation. His scholarly output is not only substantial but also highly cited and widely read, reflecting real-world influence and academic excellence.

With a growing international research presence, a unique focus on culturally integrated methodologies, and an impressive trajectory of innovation and collaboration, Dr. Yu clearly embodies the ideals of a next-generation clinical research leader.

Iwona Kwiecień | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Iwona Kwiecień | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Iwona Kwiecień , Military Institute of Medicine – National Research Institute , Poland

Iwona Kwiecień, PhD, is an expert in clinical immunology and laboratory medicine. With a strong academic background and extensive experience in medical research, she has dedicated her career to exploring immunological mechanisms in various diseases. She is currently working at the Military Institute of Medicine in Warsaw, where she serves as a lab specialist and lecturer. Dr. Kwiecień holds a PhD in Medical Science with a specialization in immunology from the Medical University of Warsaw. Her research focuses on the immune response in lung cancer, sarcoidosis, and other inflammatory diseases, employing advanced techniques such as multicolor flow cytometry. Her scientific contributions have been recognized globally, and she continues to shape the field of immunology through her research and teaching.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Iwona Kwiecień possesses an impressive academic background and a consistent record of significant contributions to the field of immunology and medical research. With a Ph.D. in Medical Science and immunology, along with expertise in laboratory medicine, hematology, and flow cytometry, Dr. Kwiecień has shown remarkable skill in investigating the immune system’s role in lung cancer and other diseases. Her work on antigenic profiles in the lung cancer microenvironment, macrophage subpopulations in lung cancer, and immune responses in systemic inflammation highlights her strong research abilities. The 2024 habilitation diploma is a testament to her research excellence. Furthermore, Dr. Kwiecień has contributed to the publication of numerous peer-reviewed articles with significant citations and impact, indicating her strong presence in the scientific community.

Areas for Improvement:

While Dr. Kwiecień has demonstrated significant strength in immunological research, expanding her focus to include other cancer types or diseases beyond lung cancer may broaden the scope of her impact. Additionally, fostering greater international collaboration could further enhance the dissemination of her research globally.

Education:

Iwona Kwiecień earned her Master of Science in Laboratory Medicine from the Medical University of Warsaw in 2012. Later, she completed her PhD at the same university’s First Faculty of Medicine, specializing in immunology, with a thesis on regulatory mechanisms of the immune response, which she defended in 2017. She further pursued a specialization in Laboratory Medical Hematology at the Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Poland, completing it in 2021. Dr. Kwiecień is also set to receive her habilitation diploma from the Military Institute of Medicine-National Research Institute in 2024, based on her scientific achievements in lung cancer immunology. Throughout her academic journey, she has developed expertise in clinical cytology, flow cytometry, and immunological assays, contributing significantly to the scientific community.

Experience:

Dr. Iwona Kwiecień has accumulated substantial experience in the field of laboratory medicine and immunology, working at several prestigious institutions. Since 2017, she has been a laboratory specialist and lecturer at the Military Institute of Medicine-National Research Institute in Warsaw, focusing on flow cytometry and hematology. Her role involves designing, performing, and analyzing complex experiments, as well as providing education and training to students. Prior to her current position, Dr. Kwiecień worked as a research coordinator assistant at BioVirtus Research Site and Clinical Research Group in Warsaw. Her academic career also includes time spent at the University Clinical Center of the Medical University of Warsaw, where she collaborated on various pathology and immunology projects. Dr. Kwiecień’s professional experience extends to overseeing numerous grants and research projects, including her work on macrophage subpopulations and lung cancer.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Iwona Kwiecień has received several accolades in recognition of her outstanding contributions to science and research. Among her awards is the prestigious “Gold Laurel Graduate” medal for being the best graduate of Laboratory Medicine at the Medical University of Warsaw in 2013. She also received the 2nd award from the Polish Archives of Internal Medicine for her student research on macrophage subpopulations in sarcoidosis in 2014. Additionally, Dr. Kwiecień has been the recipient of numerous research grants, including the 2014-2015 Grant for Young Scientific Researcher from the Medical University of Warsaw. Her work on macrophage subpopulations in lung cancer earned her a statutory grant at the Military Institute of Medicine in 2018-2019. These awards reflect her exceptional research contributions and commitment to advancing the field of clinical immunology and laboratory medicine.

Research Focus:

Dr. Iwona Kwiecień’s research focus lies primarily in the immunology of lung cancer, sarcoidosis, and inflammatory diseases. Her studies have explored immune responses, particularly the role of macrophages, regulatory T cells, and other immune cell populations in disease progression. A key area of her research involves the use of multicolor flow cytometry to assess antigenic profiles of cells in cancer microenvironments. She has contributed to the understanding of how immune cells, such as T cells and macrophages, interact with tumor cells in the context of lung cancer and other inflammatory conditions. Dr. Kwiecień has also researched the impact of systemic inflammation on diseases like obstructive sleep apnea. Her work aims to uncover novel therapeutic targets and provide insights into the immune mechanisms driving various pathologies. Through her research, Dr. Kwiecień continues to contribute valuable knowledge to the fields of clinical immunology and hematology.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Frequency and spontaneous cytotoxicity of natural killer cells in healthy children: preliminary results 🧬🧒
  2. Association between M1 and M2 macrophages in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and tobacco smoking in patients with sarcoidosis 💨🫁
  3. Cytometric analysis of perforin expression in NK cells, CD8+, and CD4+ lymphocytes in children with autoimmune Hashimoto’s thyroiditis 👶🦠
  4. T, B, and NKT Cells in Systemic Inflammation in Obstructive Sleep Apnea 😴🩺
  5. Macrophage polarization in interstitial lung diseases 💔🫁
  6. D4+/CD25high/FoxP3+/CD127- regulatory T cells in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of lung cancer patients 🫀💉
  7. Elevated regulatory T cells, surface and intracellular CTLA‐4 expression and interleukin‐17 in the lung cancer microenvironment in humans 🫀🧪
  8. Elevated Foxp3/CD8 ratio in lung adenocarcinoma metastatic lymph nodes resected by transcervical extended mediastinal lymphadenectomy 🔬💊
  9. Immunophenotype of t cells expressing programmed death-1 and cytotoxic T cell antigen-4 in early lung cancer: local vs. systemic immune response 🎗️🫁
  10. Fas-positive lymphocytes are associated with systemic inflammation in obstructive sleep Apnea syndrome 🛏️🔬

Conclusion:

Dr. Iwona Kwiecień is a highly capable researcher whose work has made substantial contributions to clinical immunology. Her ongoing focus on the immune responses in cancer offers significant potential for advancing cancer diagnostics and therapeutics. With a strong academic and research background, she is undoubtedly a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

 

 

 

 

 

Annoor Awadasseid | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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:

  1. Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of novel TMPRSS2-PROTACs with florosubstituted 4-guanidino-N-phenylbenzamide derivative ligands. 🔬💊
  2. Design, synthesis, and evaluation of antitumor activity of 2-arylmethoxy-4-(2-fluoromethyl-biphenyl-3-ylmethoxy) benzylamine derivatives as PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors. 🧬💥
  3. Small molecule and PROTAC molecule experiments in vitro and in vivo, focusing on mouse PD-L1 and human PD-L1 differences as targets. 🔬🐭
  4. Recent advances and mechanisms of action of PD-L1 degraders as potential therapeutic agents. 💡📚
  5. Design, synthesis, anti-tumor activity and mechanism of novel PROTACs as degraders of PD-L1 and inhibitors of PD-1/PD-L1 interaction. 🔧🎯
  6. Current studies and future promises of PD-1 signal inhibitors in cervical cancer therapy. 🎗️🔬
  7. A Review on the Anticancer Activity of Carbazole-based Tricyclic Compounds. 📖🔍
  8. 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. 🧪🧫
  9. PD-L1 dimerisation induced by biphenyl derivatives mediates anti-breast cancer activity via the non-immune PD-L1–AKT–mTOR/Bcl2 pathway. 🧬💥
  10. 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.