Yanlan Wang | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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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:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. Recognition & Awards
    She has received the Coxe Fellowship at Stanford and multiple merit-based scholarships, highlighting academic excellence and innovation.

  6. 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:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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:

  1. 🔬 Quantitative flow cytometry using quantitative streptavidin-protein G-biotin beads (qBeads) – J Immunol Methods, 2025

  2. 🧬 A Bivalent Molecular Glue Linking Lysine Acetyltransferases to Oncogene-directed Cell Death – Cell (revising)

  3. 💉 Enhance IL15 anti-tumor efficacy by inhibiting its negative feedback mechanism – (in preparation)

  4. ⚛️ Decouple the toxicity and efficacy of BJ-001, an integrin targeting IL-15 – AACR Abstract, 2019

  5. 🔄 Decoupling the toxicity and efficacy of immunotherapeutics – SITC Abstract, 2019

  6. 🧪 An AKR1C3-specific prodrug with potent anti-tumor activities against T-ALL – Leukemia & Lymphoma, 2020

  7. 🧫 A novel AKR1C3 specific prodrug TH3424 with potent anti-tumor activity in liver cancer – Clin Pharmacol Ther, 2021

  8. 🧲 A GPC3-targeting Bispecific Antibody, GPC3-S-Fab, with Potent Cytotoxicity – J Vis Exp, 2018

  9. 🧠 Identification of anti-CD16a single domain antibodies and their application in bispecific antibodies – Cancer Biol Ther, 2020

  10. 🧿 Bp-Bs, a novel T-cell engaging bispecific antibody with biparatopic Her2 binding – Mol Ther Oncolytics, 2019

  11. 🧰 A novel multi-functional anti-CEA-IL15 molecule displays potent anti-tumor activities – Drug Des Devel Ther, 2018

  12. 🧠 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.

Hyung Joon Kim | Oral cancer | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Hyung Joon Kim | Oral cancer | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Hyung Joon Kim, Pusan National University School of Dentistry, South Korea

Dr. Hyung Joon Kim is a distinguished Professor at the Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry, Pusan National University. With a robust foundation in molecular biology and dental sciences, Dr. Kim has made significant contributions to the understanding of bone biology, particularly in the contexts of periodontitis, osteoclast/osteoblast function, and bone metastasis. His research bridges fundamental science and clinical application, focusing on regenerative therapies using dental cells. Over the years, he has held key research and academic positions at Seoul National University and Kyung Hee University, where he advanced investigations into bone metabolism and periodontal regeneration. An accomplished academic, Dr. Kim has published extensively in high-impact journals, exploring complex signaling pathways and therapeutic targets in bone-related diseases. His work stands out for its interdisciplinary approach and translational potential, positioning him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award in biomedical sciences.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Strong Academic Background
    Dr. Kim holds a BS in Molecular Biology and a PhD in Dentistry from two of South Korea’s top institutions, establishing a multidisciplinary foundation in both basic science and clinical research.

  2. Focused and Impactful Research
    His research areas—osteoclast/osteoblast biology, bone metastasis, dental stem cell therapy, and periodontitis—address critical global health issues. His work bridges fundamental science and therapeutic applications, enhancing its clinical relevance.

  3. Impressive Publication Record
    With multiple peer-reviewed papers in internationally recognized journals like J Bone Miner Res, Int J Mol Sci, and Cells, Dr. Kim has demonstrated consistent and high-quality scientific output.

  4. Leadership and Experience
    He has held senior and professorial positions at leading research centers and universities for over a decade, highlighting his expertise, leadership, and mentorship skills.

  5. Interdisciplinary Approach
    His integration of molecular biology, regenerative dentistry, and systemic disease pathways reflects innovation and cross-disciplinary thinking—key for future-focused research.

🔧 Areas for Improvement:

  1. Global Collaboration & Outreach
    While Dr. Kim has a strong national profile, increasing international collaborations, joint publications, or involvement in global research consortia could further elevate his influence and recognition.

  2. Translational and Clinical Application
    More emphasis on clinical trials or patent filings based on his lab’s findings would help translate laboratory success into real-world impact, strengthening his candidacy for awards focused on innovation.

  3. Funding and Grants Visibility
    Public visibility of high-impact grants or funding awards received would reinforce the trust and investment the research community places in his work.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Hyung Joon Kim began his academic journey at Pusan National University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology (1996–2004). Building on this strong foundation in biological sciences, he pursued advanced research in dental sciences, obtaining a Ph.D. from the Department of Dentistry at Seoul National University (2004–2009). His doctoral work integrated molecular biology with dental pathophysiology, setting the stage for his later specialization in bone metabolism and regenerative medicine. His multidisciplinary educational background enabled him to explore complex biological processes with a clinical perspective, particularly in understanding the mechanisms of osteoclast and osteoblast regulation, and their roles in periodontitis and systemic disease. The combination of molecular insight and clinical relevance in his education forms the cornerstone of his innovative research, equipping him to contribute meaningfully to the academic and clinical dental community.

💼 Professional Experience:

Dr. Kim’s professional career spans over 15 years of dedicated research and teaching. He began as a Senior Researcher (2009–2013) at the Bone Metabolism Research Center, Seoul National University, where he led projects on osteoclast function and bone pathology. He then served as a Research Professor (2013–2014) at the Tooth and Periodontal Tissue Regeneration Center, Kyung Hee University, further deepening his expertise in dental tissue engineering. Since 2014, Dr. Kim has been serving as an Associate Professor (now Professor) at the School of Dentistry, Pusan National University, where he leads multiple research initiatives and mentors future dental researchers. His career reflects a consistent focus on translational bone biology, contributing not only to scientific advancement but also to academic excellence. His blend of research innovation and educational leadership makes him an impactful figure in oral physiology and regenerative medicine.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Hyung Joon Kim’s research is centered on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms of bone regeneration and destruction, particularly through the lens of osteoclast and osteoblast biology. He explores how inflammatory signals and cytokines influence these bone cells, contributing to diseases like periodontitis and bone metastasis. His second major interest lies in investigating the paracrine mechanisms in periodontal disease and identifying therapeutic targets for halting bone loss. Dr. Kim is also pioneering the cellular therapeutic application of dental stem cells for tissue regeneration, merging basic cell biology with clinical innovation. Additionally, he investigates the systemic implications of periodontal disease, linking oral health to broader systemic conditions. Through his research, he aims to develop more effective and targeted treatments for bone-related diseases, using a combination of molecular insights, stem cell therapy, and pharmacological interventions.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

📖 Elevated Expression of Cathepsin K in Periodontal Ligament Fibroblast by Inflammatory Cytokines Accelerates Osteoclastogenesis via Paracrine Mechanism in Periodontal Disease. (2021)
📖 Gastrin-Releasing Peptide (GRP) Stimulates Osteoclastogenesis in Periodontitis. (2021)
📖 Assessing the effects of cyclosporine A on osteoblastogenesis, osteoclastogenesis, and angiogenesis mediated by human periodontal ligament stem cells. (2020)
📖 Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) regulates the fusion of osteoclast precursors by inhibiting Bcl6 in periodontitis. (2020)
📖 A CTGF-RUNX2-RANKL Axis in Breast and Prostate Cancer Cells Promotes Tumor Progression in Bone. (2020)
📖 Zoledronate Enhances Osteocyte-Mediated Osteoclast Differentiation by IL-6/RANKL Axis. (2019)
📖 Calcium-Phosphate Crystals Promote RANKL Expression via the Downregulation of DUSP1. (2019)
📖 Effects of Hispidulin on the Osteo/Odontogenic and Endothelial Differentiation of Dental Pulp Stem Cells. (2024)

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Hyung Joon Kim stands out as a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His extensive research in bone physiology, dental stem cells, and systemic disease mechanisms reflects both scientific rigor and practical application. With a proven track record of leadership, academic productivity, and impactful focus areas, he exemplifies the qualities of an innovative and dedicated researcher.

Zu-Chian Chiang | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang , Fujian Normal University , China

Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang is a highly accomplished postdoctoral fellow at the Biomedical Research Center of Southern China, Fujian Normal University, specializing in cancer research and regenerative medicine. With extensive experience in antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), peptide synthesis, and tissue engineering, his work focuses on the development of targeted therapies and innovative biomaterials for medical applications. Dr. Chiang’s expertise includes both academic research and real-world clinical applications, and he has contributed to numerous peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. Over the years, his research has received recognition from prestigious institutions such as the National Taiwan University and Academia Sinica. He also plays an active role in academic societies, providing his expertise as a peer reviewer for various scientific journals and as a key member of multiple international organizations. Dr. Chiang continues to make significant strides in biomedical engineering and cancer therapy.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Education and Experience:

    • Dr. Chiang has a robust academic background, with a Ph.D. in Materials and Chemical Engineering and an M.S. in Chemistry, both from reputable institutions in Taiwan. His postdoctoral experience spans multiple prestigious institutions, such as Academia Sinica and National Taiwan University Hospital, and his ongoing postdoc at the Biomedical Research Center of Southern China showcases his continued dedication to scientific progress.

  2. Research Excellence:

    • Dr. Chiang has made significant contributions to the field of cancer research, particularly in antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), functional peptides for cancer research, and the development of specific aptamers as targeted therapies for cancer.

    • He has authored numerous high-quality peer-reviewed publications (with recent impactful papers), contributing to advancing understanding in immunotherapy, ADCs, and cancer therapeutics. His research has garnered attention in journals like Frontiers in Oncology and PLOS ONE.

  3. Awards and Recognition:

    • Dr. Chiang’s receipt of multiple prestigious awards, such as the 3rd Biotech Elite Training Reserve Program award, highlights his excellence in both academic and professional research. His achievements have earned recognition from both Taiwanese and Chinese scientific communities.

  4. Active Contribution to the Scientific Community:

    • Serving as a peer reviewer for the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, as well as being involved in numerous scientific societies, demonstrates his commitment to advancing the field and his active engagement with the wider scientific community.

  5. Research Support and Funding:

    • Dr. Chiang has successfully secured research funding from prominent sources, such as the Department of Human Resources and Social Security, Fujian Province, showcasing his ability to lead and manage significant research projects. His ongoing research projects reflect a focus on cancer therapies and therapeutic advancements, further cementing his relevance in the field.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Public Engagement and Outreach:

    • While Dr. Chiang has impressive research achievements, further expanding his presence in broader public engagement, such as science communication, could help make his findings accessible to a larger audience, especially in cancer therapy and regenerative medicine.

  2. Collaboration and Networking:

    • Dr. Chiang’s research has been highly productive, but future collaboration with other interdisciplinary teams could increase the breadth of his work and facilitate the development of novel, cross-disciplinary solutions.

  3. Increasing Citation Impact:

    • Although Dr. Chiang has 91 citations, his h-index of 5 suggests there may be room to increase the visibility and citation impact of his work. Strategic publishing in highly-cited journals or working with larger collaborative projects could elevate this metric.

  4. Mentorship and Training:

    • While his extensive postdoctoral training is impressive, Dr. Chiang’s experience in mentorship or leading research teams could be enhanced further. Serving as a mentor for students and junior researchers could help strengthen his leadership in the scientific community.

Education:

Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang earned his Ph.D. in Materials and Chemical Engineering from National United University, Taiwan (2008-2014), where he specialized in biomedical engineering under the mentorship of Professor An-Chong Chao and Dr. Guo-Chung Dong. Prior to that, he completed his M.S. in Chemistry from Tunghai University, Taiwan (2005-2007), under the guidance of Professor Feng-Di Lung. His doctoral research focused on creating innovative materials for biomedical applications, such as scaffolds for tissue engineering. Throughout his academic career, Dr. Chiang was awarded scholarships and fellowships recognizing his excellence in research, such as the First Outstanding Doctoral Scholarship at National United University and the Master’s Program Scholarship from the Hunan Fellow Association of Taiwan. His academic foundation laid the groundwork for his cutting-edge contributions to cancer research, drug delivery, and regenerative medicine, ensuring his continued impact in the field.

Experience:

Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang has accumulated a wealth of research experience, serving as a postdoctoral fellow at various prestigious institutions. Since September 2019, he has been working at the Biomedical Research Center of Southern China, Fujian Normal University, focusing on cancer therapies and advanced drug delivery systems. Prior to this, he held postdoctoral positions at the Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica (2016-2019), and National Taiwan University Hospital’s Clinical Trial Center (2015-2016), where he worked on pioneering biotechnological projects, including the Taiwan Protein Project. Dr. Chiang’s expertise extends to developing antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), functional peptides, and biomaterials for regenerative medicine. His involvement in various research groups has strengthened his interdisciplinary knowledge in both molecular and clinical aspects of cancer therapy. Dr. Chiang also gained valuable teaching experience while completing his degrees, serving as a teaching assistant in organic chemistry and chemical engineering courses throughout his academic career.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his career, reflecting his significant contributions to the field of biomedical research. Notable honors include the “Science and Technology Commissioner” title in Quanzhou, Fujian Province (2020), and the “Miaoli Southeastern Xindong Satellite Rotary Club Chairman Award” (2017). In 2016, he was honored as an awardee of the “3rd Biotech Elite Training Reserve Program” by National Taiwan University and Taiwan’s Ministry of Science and Technology. His academic achievements were further recognized with the Chung Hwa Rotary Annual Doctoral Program Award (2012), and he received the First Outstanding Doctoral Scholarship at National United University (2010). Additionally, Dr. Chiang was awarded the Master’s Program Scholarship from the Hunan Fellow Association of Taiwan (2007). These accolades reflect his outstanding dedication to scientific research, education, and professional development in the fields of cancer therapy and regenerative medicine.

Research Focus:

Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang’s primary research interests lie in the development of functional peptides for cancer therapy and tissue engineering, as well as the design of advanced biomolecular materials for regenerative medicine. His work focuses on antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), targeting specific cancer cells for more effective therapies. One of his key research areas is developing specific aptamers as blockers, agonists, or antagonists for cancer treatment, aiming to enhance therapeutic outcomes. He is also dedicated to the synthesis of peptides that can aid in the regeneration of bone tissue and the creation of biomaterials that combine bioactive molecules for regenerative medicine. Through his research, Dr. Chiang aims to improve cancer treatments by targeting tumors more precisely, reduce side effects, and contribute to breakthroughs in drug delivery. His work also explores innovative methods of using biomaterials for enhancing regenerative medicine, thus bridging the gap between basic science and clinical application.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. “Generation and characterization of 7DC-DM1: a non-cleavable CD47-targeting antibody-drug conjugates with antitumor effects” 🧬💉

  2. “Strengthening effect of thalidomide combined with anti-PD1 antibody on enhancing immunity for lung cancer therapy” 🫁💪

  3. “Development of Novel CD47-Specific ADCs Possessing High Potency Against Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in vitro and in vivo” 🫀⚛️

  4. “Preparation and characterization of antibody-drug conjugates acting on HER2-positive cancer cells” 🧪🧫

  5. “Preparation and characterization of dexamethasone-immobilized chitosan scaffold” 💊🧵

  6. “Characterization of the morphology and hydrophilicity of chitosan/caffeic acid hybrid scaffolds” 🧫🌿

  7. “Preparation and characterization of caffeic acid grafted chitosan/CPTMS hybrid scaffolds” 🍄🔬

Conclusion:

Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang is a highly qualified and accomplished researcher, with a strong track record in cancer research and therapeutic innovation. His work in developing antibody-drug conjugates, functional peptides, and aptamers demonstrates great promise in transforming cancer therapy. His academic credentials, publications, awards, and research funding solidify his standing as a top candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Further expansion into public engagement, interdisciplinary collaborations, and mentorship could further enhance his contributions to the field and his overall impact. Therefore, Dr. Chiang is certainly a strong contender for the award, with potential for even greater influence moving forward.