Yi Zhang | Tumor Immunology | Best Researcher Award

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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.

Jean-Marc LEMAITRE | Cellular Senescence Aging | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Jean-Marc LEMAITRE | Cellular Senescence Aging | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jean-Marc LEMAITRE, INSERM UMR1183, France

Jean-Marc Lemaitre is a French biomedical researcher internationally renowned for his groundbreaking work on cellular reprogramming and aging reversal. Born on October 14, 1963, he is currently based at the Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Biotherapies (IRMB) in Montpellier, where he serves as co-director. His work has transformed the understanding of how aged cells can be rejuvenated, offering new hope for regenerative therapies. With a strong academic and clinical research background, Lemaitre has authored over 100 scientific articles and books on senescence, stem cells, and epigenetics. He is a board member of several scientific societies and journals, and continues to drive research at the frontier of aging science. Lemaitre is also a public science communicator and author, helping bridge cutting-edge biology with societal challenges related to aging. His passion for improving human health through innovative science places him at the forefront of biomedical research in France and globally.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Pioneering Work in Aging Reversal
    Lemaitre was among the first scientists to show that senescent human cells can be rejuvenated, contributing significantly to cellular reprogramming and epigenetic longevity science.

  2. High-Impact Publications & Scientific Output
    Authored or co-authored over 100 scientific works, including in Nature Aging, Molecular Cell, Scientific Reports, and PNAS. His studies are cited globally in aging, regenerative medicine, and stem cell therapy.

  3. Institutional Leadership
    As Co-Director and Co-founder of IRMB, he manages a research institute with 180+ staff, positioning him as a key scientific leader in France.

  4. Scientific Recognition
    Member of scientific editorial boards and committees (e.g., Cells journal, Ligue Contre le Cancer), and board member of FSSCR, reflecting sustained leadership in the stem cell field.

  5. Translational & Interdisciplinary Impact
    His research has led to clinical insights in dermatology, osteoarthritis, and cardiology, demonstrating broad biomedical relevance beyond aging biology.

  6. Public Engagement and Science Communication
    Author of books like “Guérir la Vieillesse” and “Décider de son âge”, he bridges scientific knowledge with public interest in health and longevity.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Expanded International Collaborations
    While Lemaitre collaborates across disciplines, further integration into global consortia or partnerships with biotech/pharma could amplify the translational value of his work.

  2. Visibility in Policy or Global Aging Initiatives
    Participation in policy advisory boards or international aging panels (e.g., WHO, UN Decade of Healthy Aging) would enhance his influence in shaping public health approaches to aging.

  3. Startups or Technology Transfer
    Commercialization of his discoveries (e.g., senescence therapies or reprogramming protocols) through startups or IP licensing would elevate his impact on innovation and real-world application.

Education:

Jean-Marc Lemaitre’s academic journey is rooted in molecular and developmental biology. He earned his DEA (Diplôme d’Études Approfondies) in Developmental Biology from Paris 6 University in 1991. His Doctorate (PhD) followed in 1995 from Paris 7 University, with research conducted at the esteemed Institut Jacques Monod in molecular and cellular biology. His early focus on the fundamental processes of cell development laid the groundwork for his future expertise in aging and regenerative medicine. In 2005, Lemaitre earned his Habilitation to Direct Research (HDR) from Montpellier University Medical School, a prestigious credential that allowed him to lead independent research projects. His educational path reflects a consistent and deep engagement with life sciences and a strong commitment to academic excellence. These milestones set the foundation for his leading role in cellular reprogramming and senescence-related research at both national and international levels.

Experience:

Jean-Marc Lemaitre has amassed over 30 years of professional experience in biomedical research, with a major focus on aging, senescence, and regenerative medicine. Since 2015, he has served as Co-Director and Cofounder of the IRMB (Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Biotherapies), which now houses over 180 researchers. His professional base is at the Saint Eloi Hospital in Montpellier, where he contributes both to translational research and clinical collaborations. Between 2014 and 2018, he held a Contrat d’Interface at CHU Montpellier, strengthening ties between research and healthcare. His pioneering work in cellular reprogramming earned international acclaim for demonstrating that senescent human cells could be rejuvenated using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) technology. Lemaitre also plays leadership roles in research consortia such as the FHU REGENHAB and is an elected member of scientific committees, including the LIGUE Contre le Cancer du Septentrion. His experience is both deep and influential in shaping modern aging research.

Awards and Honors:

Jean-Marc Lemaitre has been recognized multiple times for his leadership and innovation in biomedical science. He was elected to the Scientific Committee of the LIGUE Contre le Cancer du Septentrion in 2019, reflecting his growing influence in translational medicine. In 2015, he co-founded and became Co-Director of IRMB, an institute now pivotal in stem cell and regenerative therapies. From 2014 to 2018, he was awarded a Contrat d’Interface at CHU Montpellier, enhancing integration between research and clinical practice. His work has also earned him positions on international editorial boards, including the “Cells” journal since 2020. In 2007, he co-founded and became a board member of the French Society for Stem Cell Research (FSSCR). These honors reflect not only the quality of his scientific contributions but also his dedication to mentorship, institution-building, and public engagement in science. He remains a key figure in aging and regenerative medicine globally.

Research Focus:

Jean-Marc Lemaitre’s research centers on cellular aging, senescence, and regenerative medicine. He is internationally renowned for demonstrating that aged or senescent human cells can be reprogrammed back to a pluripotent state—effectively reversing aging markers. His team has been at the forefront of identifying epigenetic mechanisms involved in aging and developing short reprogramming protocols to extend healthspan. He works extensively on senotherapeutics—interventions targeting the senescent cells that drive aging and disease—and has published seminal studies on skin aging, musculoskeletal regeneration, and systemic rejuvenation. Lemaitre is also a thought leader in developing blood-based epigenetic clocks to monitor aging and predict mortality. His integrative approach blends molecular biology, stem cell science, and translational medicine to uncover ways to slow or reverse aging processes. His work opens promising therapeutic avenues for treating age-related diseases, improving healthspan, and potentially redefining biological age through cellular reprogramming technologies.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Disc-Derived iPSCs and Environmental Cues for Nucleus Pulposus Regeneration (Tissue Eng Part A, 2025)

  2. Blood-Based Epigenetic Clock for Intrinsic Capacity and Mortality (Nat Aging, 2025)

  3. Niacinamide and Hyaluronic Acid for Skin Aging: Clinical Correlation (Sci Rep, 2024)

  4. Décider de son âge (Book, 2024 – Allary Editions)

  5. Therapeutic Approaches Targeting Senescent Cells (Cells, 2023)

  6. Guérir la Vieillesse (Book, 2022 – Humensciences)

  7. Single Short Reprogramming Increases Healthspan (Aging, 2022)

  8. Epigenetic Mechanism Linking Early Reprogramming to Lifespan (Aging Cell, 2022)

  9. DNMT1-Driven 4D Genome Rewiring in Senescence (Molecular Cell, 2020)

  10. DNA Replication Timing as Marker in Progeroid Diseases (PNAS, 2017)

Conclusion:

Jean-Marc Lemaitre is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. He combines groundbreaking research in cellular aging and epigenetics with institutional leadership and public engagement. His work has transformed the understanding of biological aging, making him one of the most influential biomedical scientists in Europe in this domain. The award would not only recognize his scientific excellence but also highlight the increasing importance of healthy aging, regenerative medicine, and cellular rejuvenation in modern medicine.

Zhi Guo | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

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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.

 

Guojie Ji | Cancer Cell Biology | Cancer Cell Biology Award

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Mr. Guojie Ji | Cancer Cell Biology | Cancer Cell Biology Award

Mr. Guojie Ji, NORTH HENAN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY, China

Guojie Ji, Master of Medicine Science, is a laboratory technician and the Provincial Director of the Demonstration Center for Biological and Basic Medical Experimental Teaching. With a core research focus on fertility preservation and tumor therapy, he brings an interdisciplinary approach to biomedical science. Ji has played a pivotal role in guiding over 30 research papers and acquiring 13 national patents. In addition to managing over 15 national and provincial projects, his mentorship has led students to win numerous innovation and entrepreneurship awards at both national and provincial levels. Ji is an editorial board member for Contemporary Chemical Research and a peer reviewer for Cell Death Discovery. His leadership and scholarly work have earned him several honors, including being named Outstanding Teacher and Provincial Outstanding Mentor. His recent research delves into ferroptosis in cancer and reproductive toxicity, making impactful contributions to both cancer biology and regenerative medicine.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Relevant Research Contributions:

    • Ji has made direct contributions to cancer biology, particularly through:

      • Ferroptosis mechanisms in breast cancer cells (2025, BBRC)

      • 5-Fluorouracil-induced oxidative damage and DNA disruption (2024, Ecotoxicology & Environmental Safety)

      • Exosome impact on melanoma cell growth (2021, Journal of Yangzhou University)

    • These studies reflect deep involvement in molecular mechanisms of cancer cell death, a central theme in cancer cell biology.

  2. Multidisciplinary Integration:

    • Ji’s research spans stem cells, oxidative stress, and reproductive toxicity, all of which tie into cancer research—especially in terms of chemotherapy side effects and regenerative implications.

  3. High Research Output and Recognition:

    • Over 30 peer-reviewed articles, including in high-impact journals such as Cell Death Discovery and BBRC.

    • 13 national patents, indicating applied innovation in biomedical research.

    • Leads national and provincial projects with substantial funding (~¥1 million), showcasing leadership and research management.

  4. Mentorship and Scientific Community Service:

    • Recognized as an Outstanding Innovation Mentor, Editorial Board Member, and Peer Reviewer, reflecting active participation in advancing the field.

    • Mentored award-winning student teams in national competitions, indicating talent cultivation in biomedical research.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Primary Focus Is Fertility & Reproductive Biology:

    • While Ji has notable cancer-related studies, his primary research base lies in fertility preservation. For this award, a broader and more central focus on oncogenic signaling, tumor microenvironments, or immunotherapy might strengthen his profile.

  2. Limited Clinical Cancer Studies:

    • Most cancer work is preclinical or in vitro; integrating clinical collaborations or translational oncology trials could enhance relevance to applied cancer therapy.

Education:

Guojie Ji holds a Master of Medicine Science, with specialized training in biological sciences, biomedical research, and clinical applications in fertility and tumor biology. His academic background includes comprehensive training in cell biology, molecular biology, reproductive medicine, and translational oncology. Through this foundation, he developed a research orientation focused on bridging cell-level discoveries with clinical potential, particularly in the areas of cryopreservation, stem cell differentiation, and tumor cell regulation. Ji’s academic excellence and commitment to research have driven his involvement in interdisciplinary fields, where he combines elements of life sciences and therapeutic innovation. His deep-rooted academic experiences have been critical in enabling his success as a project leader, educator, and recognized biomedical scientist. His education is not just academic but applied, demonstrated by his integration of research into experimental teaching models and training future life scientists.

💼 Experience:

Guojie Ji currently serves as a Laboratory Technician and Provincial Director for a Demonstration Center dedicated to experimental biological and medical teaching. He has led or completed 10+ major national and provincial research projects, along with 5 horizontal interdisciplinary research collaborations, collectively funded with nearly 1 million yuan. Ji’s lab has been instrumental in developing fertility-preservation protocols, studying sperm cryopreservation, and examining cancer cell response to drugs like 5-FU. He has authored over 30 peer-reviewed papers, including key publications in Cell Death Discovery, Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, and Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications. Ji is a mentor to undergraduate innovators, guiding teams to national victories in prestigious competitions. Additionally, he holds editorial and peer-review roles in prominent scientific journals. His work demonstrates strong leadership, scholarly innovation, and an enduring commitment to experimental medical education and biomedical research.

🏆 Awards and Honors:

Guojie Ji’s contributions to research and education have earned him widespread recognition. He has been honored as a Key Teacher, Civilized Teacher, and Outstanding Teacher, along with awards for Outstanding Innovation and Entrepreneurship Mentorship at the provincial level. He has received accolades as Outstanding Supervisor for Bachelor’s Degree Dissertations and Life Sciences Competition Mentor. Ji has successfully supervised student teams winning over 25 awards, including 5 national-level prizes in events such as the Challenge Cup, Internet+, and the National College Life Sciences Competition. These honors reflect his commitment to combining cutting-edge research with student training and public impact. His ability to mentor and lead both in the lab and the classroom has set a benchmark for excellence in academic innovation and practical scientific development. Ji’s holistic excellence makes him a role model in both research mentorship and scientific discovery.

🔬 Research Focus:

Guojie Ji’s research lies at the intersection of fertility preservation, cryobiology, and tumor cell biology. He explores the mechanisms of cell damage, oxidative stress, and DNA integrity during sperm and stem cell preservation, with a growing emphasis on ferroptosis—a regulated form of cell death—in cancer biology. His recent studies demonstrate how agents like 5-Fluorouracil affect cancer cells and male fertility via oxidative and mitochondrial pathways. Ji also investigates mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes in tumor growth, highlighting a promising field of cell-free therapies. In plant and animal models, he’s contributed to understanding protein and lipid roles in cell signaling and disease resistance, reinforcing the depth and range of his biomedical expertise. With a diverse research portfolio, Ji aims to translate basic discoveries into therapeutic strategies, particularly targeting tumor suppression and reproductive health. His work continues to expand the molecular understanding of cell survival and death pathways in medicine.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧊 Protective Effect of Sucrose and Antioxidants on Cryopreservation of Sperm Motility and DNA Integrity in C57BL/6 Mice

  2. 💧 Effects of MTG and GSH on Human Sperm Motility and DNA Integrity during Vitrification in the Presence of Trehalose

  3. ❄️ Comparison of Rapid Freezing vs. Vitrification for Human Sperm Cryopreservation Using Sucrose in Closed Straw Systems

  4. 🔍 Studies on Basic Issues Relevant to Sperm Cryopreservation in Humans

  5. 📦 Effects of Exosomes Derived from Mesenchymal Stem Cells on the Growth of Melanoma Cells

  6. 🌱 BMP4 is Insufficient to Differentiate Umbilical Cord MSCs into Germ Cell-like Cells In Vitro

  7. 🧬 Current Status of Male Fertility Preservation in Humans

  8. 🧪 Protein Glycosylation Changes During Systemic Acquired Resistance in Arabidopsis thaliana

  9. 🛡️ Lipid Transfer Proteins in Plant-Pathogen Interactions and Their Molecular Mechanisms

  10. 🔥 Emerging Roles of Ferroptosis in Male Reproductive Diseases

🧾 Conclusion:

Guojie Ji is a strong interdisciplinary researcher with a credible and impactful body of work in cancer cell biology, particularly in the context of ferroptosis, chemotherapy-induced toxicity, and tumor suppression mechanisms. His contributions bridge the fields of cell death, oxidative biology, and reproductive toxicology, offering unique insights into the systemic effects of anti-cancer agents. While cancer is not his sole research domain, his innovative work and translational potential clearly qualify him as a compelling nominee for the Research for Cancer Cell Biology Award—particularly in molecular cancer mechanisms and therapeutic research.