Tong Ming Liu | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Dr. Tong Ming Liu |  Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology | Singapore

Dr. Tong Ming Liu’s research focuses on advancing gene and cell therapy through innovative studies on human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). His work explores the mechanisms governing mesenchymal stem cell stemness, potency, and ageing, with the goal of improving the therapeutic efficacy and manufacturing quality of MSC-based treatments. A central aspect of his research is identifying and characterizing critical quality attributes (CQAs) in MSC manufacturing to ensure consistent and safe clinical applications. Dr. Liu also investigates disease modeling of bone and cartilage disorders using iPSC-derived MSCs to facilitate drug screening and gene correction strategies. His recent projects include the development of optimized media for iPSC, iPSC-MSC, and MSC culture, as well as identifying novel biomarkers to select high-quality MSCs for regenerative medicine. Through his studies, he aims to enhance the scalability, functionality, and translational potential of stem cell therapies. His findings have been recognized in scientific forums such as the EVANTICA Symposium and Singapore Cell and Gene Therapy Conference, underscoring his contribution to the development of efficient MSC-derived extracellular vesicle (MSC-EV) optimization and regenerative therapy innovations.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications:

Liu, T. M.*, Tew, W., Yang, Z., Lim, B., Hui, J. H. P., Lee, E. H., Loh, Y.-H., & Cool, S. (2025). Understanding the molecular basis of mesenchymal stem cell stemness: Implications for clinical applications. Cell Death & Disease, 16(1), 778.

Liu, T. M.* (2025). MSC-EVs: Pioneering the next generation of biomedical applications. World Journal of Stem Cells, 17(6), 108197.

Liu, T. M.*, & Wu, Y. (2023). Advancing gene and cell therapy using human mesenchymal stem cells. Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology, 11, 1294460.

Shou, Y., Liu, L., Le, Z., Lee, K. L., Li, X., Koh, D. Z., Wang, Y., Liu, T. M., Yang, Z., Lim, C. T., Cheung, C., & Tay, A. (2023). Mechano-responsive hydrogel for directing stem cell manufacturing and therapy. Bioactive Materials, 24, 387–400.

Liu, T. M.* (2021). Application of mesenchymal stem cells derived from human pluripotent stem cells in regenerative medicine. World Journal of Stem Cells, 13(12), 1826–1844.

Srinivasan, A., Sathiyanathan, P., Yin, L., Liu, T. M., Lam, A., Ravikumar, M., Smith, R. A. A., Loh, H. P., Zhang, Y., Ling, L., Ng, S. K., Yang, Y. S., Lezhava, A., Hui, J., Oh, S., & Cool, S. M. (2022). Strategies to enhance immunomodulatory properties and reduce heterogeneity in mesenchymal stromal cells during ex vivo expansion. Cytotherapy, 24(5), 456–472.

Liu, T. M.*, Yildirim, E. D., Li, P., Fang, H. T., Denslin, V., Kumar, V., Loh, Y.-H., Lee, E. H., Cool, S. M., Teh, B. T., Hui, J. H., Lim, B., & Shyh-Chang, N. (2020). Ascorbate and iron are required for the specification and long-term self-renewal of human skeletal mesenchymal stromal cells. Stem Cell Reports, 14(2), 210–225.

Chun Yan | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Dr. Chun Yan | Stem Cell Research | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Chun Yan, Department of Thoracic Surgery, Zhongshan Hospital of Xiamen University, China

Dr. Yan Chun is an Attending Physician at the School of Medicine/Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University. With a solid foundation in clinical medicine and surgery, Dr. Chun brings over a decade of experience in thoracic oncology and AI-driven medical research. After earning a Bachelor’s degree from Fujian Medical University, he pursued his Master’s in Surgery at Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Since 2018, Dr. Chun has contributed significantly to clinical practice, medical innovation, and academic research. His current focus includes AI-assisted diagnosis, radiogenomics, and the biomechanics of thoracic surgery. A recognized member of the Minimally Invasive Thoracic Oncology Committee under the Fujian Primary Health Association, he has received multiple accolades for his pioneering work in esophageal cancer therapy. Dr. Chun’s commitment to precision medicine and integration of AI in healthcare highlights his suitability for prestigious research honors and positions him as a leader in translational medical research in China.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Strong Academic Foundation: Dr. Yan Chun holds a Master’s degree in Surgery from Shanghai Jiao Tong University and a Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Medicine, ensuring a robust foundation in both research and clinical practice.

  2. Innovative Research: He leads and participates in cutting-edge projects that integrate AI, radiogenomics, and biomechanical modeling, reflecting a multidisciplinary and forward-thinking approach.

  3. Recognized Excellence: His work has been honored with regional innovation and scientific progress awards, demonstrating tangible contributions to thoracic oncology.

  4. Clinical Expertise: With 7+ years of medical experience, including as an attending physician, he bridges practical medicine with impactful research.

  5. Leadership Role: Serving on a professional committee in minimally invasive thoracic oncology highlights his thought leadership within his specialty.

🧠 Areas for Improvement:

  1. Expanded Publication Record: While impactful, Dr. Chun’s publication portfolio would benefit from a broader presence in international, high-impact journals to boost academic visibility.

  2. International Collaboration: Engaging in cross-border research partnerships could enhance both innovation scope and influence.

  3. Grant Scale: Existing grants are modest in size. Applying for national-level or larger competitive grants could support more ambitious projects.

  4. Mentorship and Training: Documenting roles in mentoring junior researchers or medical students would strengthen his academic leadership profile.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Yan Chun’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Clinical Medicine (MBBS) from Fujian Medical University (2010–2015), where he gained fundamental clinical knowledge and medical training. He then advanced his specialization in surgery by completing a Master of Surgery (MS) at Shanghai Jiao Tong University (2015–2018), one of China’s top medical institutions. His education emphasized evidence-based clinical practice, surgical skills, and research methodology. During his postgraduate studies, he was actively involved in academic projects, laying a strong foundation for his later research in thoracic oncology and artificial intelligence in medicine. This robust educational background equips him with interdisciplinary expertise, bridging clinical medicine, surgical techniques, and research innovation—especially in radiogenomics and perioperative therapies for esophageal cancer. His training reflects both academic rigor and a forward-looking approach to integrating emerging technologies with healthcare delivery, making him well-prepared to drive impactful research initiatives.

💼 Experience:

Dr. Yan Chun has held progressive roles at Zhongshan Hospital, Xiamen University since 2018. Starting as a Physician (2018–2023), he delivered comprehensive clinical care while engaging in translational research projects. Since July 2023, he has been serving as an Attending Physician, contributing to surgical excellence and AI-assisted diagnostic strategies in thoracic oncology. His hands-on clinical experience is complemented by leadership in grant-funded research, particularly in predictive modeling and biomechanics. Dr. Chun’s involvement in multi-disciplinary teams, collaborations with AI scientists, and contributions to surgical innovation have advanced the care standards in thoracic surgery. He has also actively contributed to institutional and provincial-level scientific programs, showcasing his capability in both practical medicine and medical research. His work stands at the intersection of clinical practice and innovation, and he remains committed to improving outcomes for patients with complex thoracic conditions through precision diagnostics and minimally invasive techniques.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Yan Chun has received multiple accolades recognizing his innovative contributions to thoracic oncology and surgical AI. His project, “AI-Assisted Precision Perioperative Individualized Therapy for Esophageal Cancer”, was selected as one of the Top Ten Innovations of the Year by the Xiamen Hospital Association, highlighting its impact on personalized medicine. Another landmark project, “Precision Diagnosis and Treatment Paradigm for Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Driven by AI and Multi-Omics Integration”, earned him the Third Prize for Scientific and Technological Progress from the Fujian Anti-Cancer Association, underscoring his leadership in advanced cancer care. His awards reflect not only clinical innovation but also excellence in multi-disciplinary research. These honors are a testament to his ability to bridge clinical needs with technological advancements, demonstrating vision, technical skill, and translational impact. They position him as a high-impact researcher contributing meaningfully to China’s evolving healthcare landscape.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Yan Chun’s research is primarily centered on the integration of artificial intelligence, radiogenomics, and thoracic oncology. He leads a government-funded project investigating deep learning-based predictive models for lymph node metastasis and prognosis in esophageal cancer, leveraging imaging-genomics to improve pre- and post-operative decision-making. He also contributed to biomechanical analysis of the NUSS procedure for pectus excavatum, applying finite element modeling to improve surgical outcomes. His work merges clinical data science, image processing, and genomics, aiming to build personalized treatment pathways and enhance minimally invasive approaches. Dr. Chun’s interdisciplinary approach reflects a deep understanding of both computational technologies and real-world clinical challenges. His ambition is to develop AI-powered platforms that augment oncological diagnostics and optimize surgical interventions. Through a combination of hands-on experience and research rigor, he is at the forefront of precision medicine in thoracic surgery, striving for innovation that is both data-driven and patient-centered.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

📖 Association between per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances exposure and prevalence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: The mediating role of serum albumin – Science of the Total Environment, 2024 🌱🫁

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Yan Chun demonstrates exceptional promise and maturity as a clinical researcher whose work lies at the confluence of AI, precision medicine, and thoracic surgery. His contributions to the diagnosis and treatment of esophageal cancer through radiogenomic modeling and minimally invasive techniques are both innovative and clinically meaningful. Backed by professional recognition and a strong clinical research ethic, Dr. Chun is a worthy candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With expanded international presence and high-impact publications, he is poised to become a leading figure in the global thoracic oncology research community.

Hongliang Xin | Tissue Engineering Regeneration | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Prof. Dr. Hongliang Xin | Tissue Engineering Regeneration | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Hongliang Xin, Nanjing Medical University, China

Professor Hongliang Xin is a distinguished pharmaceutical scientist at Nanjing Medical University, China. After earning his PhD from Fudan University in 2011, he joined Nanjing Medical University and rapidly rose through academic ranks, becoming a full professor by 2020. His international experience includes a research fellowship at North Carolina State University (2015–2016), enriching his global academic outlook. Professor Xin has made significant contributions in drug delivery, particularly for brain disorders and cancer. His work on biomimetic nanoparticles and dual-targeting systems has been widely recognized, with several of his publications cited hundreds of times. He is a recipient of the Jiangsu Outstanding Research Award and has contributed to translational science through interdisciplinary collaboration. Committed to innovation in intelligent drug delivery, Professor Xin continues to push boundaries in nanomedicine. His dedication and impactful research make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Innovative Research in Drug Delivery
    Prof. Xin has led pioneering work in cellular biomimetic drug delivery systems and brain-targeted therapies, particularly utilizing Angiopep-conjugated and ROS-responsive nanoparticles. His research shows deep innovation in crossing the blood-brain barrier — a major challenge in neuroscience and oncology.

  2. Strong Publication Record
    He has authored multiple high-impact publications in top-tier journals such as Biomaterials, ACS Nano, and Advanced Materials. Several of these works have citations exceeding 300–400, indicating significant influence in the scientific community.

  3. International Research Exposure
    His experience as a visiting scholar at North Carolina State University reflects a global approach to science, enhancing both the breadth and depth of his research collaborations.

  4. Consistent Career Growth
    From lecturer to professor within a decade, Prof. Xin’s steady academic rise reflects both merit and dedication.

  5. Recognition and Awards
    Recipient of the Jiangsu Outstanding Research Award, validating his contributions at the provincial and national level.

⚙️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Clinical Translation
    While preclinical research is robust, moving towards clinical trials or commercial partnerships would greatly strengthen the translational impact of his work.

  2. Leadership in International Consortia
    Increased participation or leadership in global research initiatives, conferences, or consortia could further elevate his visibility and impact internationally.

  3. Cross-Disciplinary Outreach
    Expanding collaborations into neuropsychology, regenerative medicine, or pharmaceutical industry applications could broaden the application of his delivery systems.

🎓 Education:

Hongliang Xin completed his doctoral studies in Pharmacy at Fudan University in 2011, one of China’s most prestigious universities. His academic journey was grounded in pharmaceutical sciences, focusing on drug delivery systems and nanotechnology-based therapies. During his PhD, he laid the foundation for his future research in targeted therapy and biomimetic materials. Post-PhD, he expanded his academic training internationally as a visiting scholar at North Carolina State University in the United States (2015–2016). This exposure to global research trends and interdisciplinary approaches further honed his expertise. The integration of chemical engineering, pharmacology, and nanotechnology into his educational training has allowed him to develop innovative and effective therapeutic strategies for brain-targeted drug delivery. His education has not only equipped him with strong technical skills but also with a visionary approach to translational medicine.

🧪 Experience:

Dr. Hongliang Xin began his academic career as a lecturer at Nanjing Medical University’s School of Pharmacy in 2011. He was promoted to Associate Professor in 2015 and became a Full Professor in 2020. Over the years, he has built a robust research program in nanomedicine and drug delivery, leading multiple funded projects and mentoring graduate students. His one-year tenure as a visiting scholar at North Carolina State University provided him international collaborative opportunities, boosting his cross-disciplinary competence. Professor Xin has published extensively in high-impact journals such as Biomaterials, ACS Nano, and Advanced Materials. He is also a recognized leader in translational drug delivery platforms, specifically for brain diseases and cancer. His extensive teaching, grant acquisition, and collaborative research background reflect both academic maturity and innovation. His professional journey exemplifies excellence, persistence, and a global perspective on healthcare research.

🔬 Research Focus:

Professor Hongliang Xin’s research centers on cellular biomimetic drug delivery systems and intelligent therapeutic strategies for brain diseases such as glioblastoma and ischemic stroke. His work integrates polymer chemistry, pharmacokinetics, and molecular targeting to design nanoparticles that can cross the blood-brain barrier with precision. A key innovation in his research is the use of Angiopep-conjugated polymers and ROS-responsive carriers to ensure site-specific and safe drug delivery. His dual-targeting PEG-PCL nanoparticle system has shown remarkable results in preclinical models of brain cancer, while his transcutaneous immunotherapy approach enhances anti-tumor immunity. Professor Xin’s focus also extends to thrombolytic delivery systems, neuroprotectants, and engineered nano-platelets for hematologic malignancies. With over a decade of focused work, his lab continues to address clinical challenges in oncology and neurology, aiming to translate nanoscale innovations into real-world therapeutics.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧠💊 Angiopep-conjugated PEG-PCL nanoparticles as dual-targeting system for brain glioma

  2. 🧬🛡 Anti-glioblastoma efficacy of paclitaxel-loaded Angiopep-conjugated PEG-PCL nanoparticles

  3. 💉🧫 Synergistic transcutaneous immunotherapy for checkpoint inhibitor delivery and tumor response

  4. 🧠🎯 2-deoxy-D-glucose functionalized PEG-PTMC nanoparticles for glioma targeting

  5. 🧠⚡ Boronic ester-dextran polymer nanoparticles responsive to ROS for stroke therapy

  6. 🧫🩸 Nano-platelets for enhanced treatment of multiple myeloma and thrombus

  7. 🧠🧬 Site-specific delivery of thrombolytics and neuroprotectants for ischemic stroke

  8. 🧠🧪 Brain targeting mechanism of Angiopep-conjugated PEG-PCL nanoparticles

  9. 🧠💉 Dual-targeted nanocarrier for treatment of brain ischemic stroke

  10. 💊🧠 Integrin-mediated PEG-PTMC nanoparticles for solid tumor penetration and paclitaxel delivery

🧾 Conclusion:

Professor Hongliang Xin is a highly qualified and impactful researcher whose contributions in intelligent, targeted drug delivery—especially for brain diseases—are both scientifically innovative and socially relevant. His work bridges critical gaps in nanomedicine and therapeutic targeting, and his publications are widely cited, reflecting broad recognition. With strategic focus on clinical translation and deeper global engagement, his already excellent profile could reach even greater heights.

Amira Ibrahim | Cell Differentiation Processes | Innovative Research Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Dr. Amira Ibrahim | Cell Differentiation Processes | Innovative Research Award

Dr. Amira Ibrahim , Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority , Egypt

Dr. Amira Ibrahim Sayed is a dedicated academic and researcher, currently serving as a Lecturer at the National Center for Radiation Research and Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, Egypt. With a career grounded in oral medicine and radiology, Dr. Sayed demonstrates a multidisciplinary approach by integrating dental science with radiological and pharmaceutical research. She is known for her strong commitment to advancing healthcare through both education and scientific inquiry. Her diverse academic and professional background allows her to bridge the gap between clinical practice and biomedical research. Passionate about mentoring and teaching, she holds part-time academic roles at Misr University for Science and Technology. Dr. Sayed’s collaborative work in the synthesis of novel therapeutic agents highlights her innovative spirit and significant contributions to drug discovery, antiviral therapy, and radiation impact studies. Her impressive portfolio of peer-reviewed publications and participation in key academic courses make her a well-rounded candidate for the Research for Innovative Research Award.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Interdisciplinary Research Excellence
    Dr. Sayed merges expertise in oral medicine, radiology, and pharmaceutical chemistry—a rare and impactful blend. Her research spans both clinical and molecular levels, showing depth and versatility.

  2. Strong Publication Record
    With over 10 peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals, her work is recognized across multiple fields including medicinal chemistry, antiviral therapy, and radiation sciences.

  3. Innovative Drug Discovery Focus
    Her work on the synthesis and molecular docking of pyrrolopyrimidine, benzimidazole, and thiouracil derivatives demonstrates cutting-edge innovation in developing novel therapeutic agents.

  4. Experience in Radiation Health Research
    Given her role at the National Center for Radiation Research & Technology, she actively contributes to important national research in radiation biology—an area of growing relevance.

  5. Academic and Educational Contributions
    As a lecturer at multiple institutions, she plays a vital role in knowledge transfer, student mentorship, and academic development.

  6. Multilingual Communication & Skills
    Her ability to communicate in Arabic, English, and basic German supports her involvement in international collaborations.

🛠 Areas for Improvement:

  1. Global Research Collaborations
    Greater participation in international collaborative projects, consortia, or funding initiatives would further elevate her impact and visibility.

  2. Patents and Practical Applications
    Filing for patents or translating her synthesized compounds into preclinical or clinical studies could reinforce the practical significance of her innovations.

  3. Increased Leadership Roles
    Engagement in leading research teams or coordinating large-scale projects could reflect greater influence within her scientific community.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Amira Ibrahim Sayed began her academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Dental Surgery (B.D.S) in 2005 from the Faculty of Oral and Dental Medicine, Cairo University. She further specialized in Oral Radiology, obtaining a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in 2014 from the same institution. Her academic curiosity and passion for interdisciplinary research led her to pursue a Ph.D. in Oral Medicine, Periodontology, Oral Diagnosis, and Radiology, which she completed in 2020 at Al-Azhar University. This diverse academic foundation has enabled her to explore the intersections of radiology, oral health, and medicinal chemistry. Dr. Sayed’s education reflects a strong emphasis on both clinical and scientific research skills, providing her with the expertise required to innovate in both diagnostic and therapeutic fields. Her comprehensive academic background makes her uniquely equipped to contribute to scientific research in radiation biology, oral diagnostics, and pharmaceutical innovation.

🧪 Experience:

Dr. Amira Ibrahim Sayed has amassed extensive academic and research experience, notably as a Lecturer at the National Center for Radiation Research & Technology, Atomic Energy Authority, since 2021. She started her professional journey there in 2015 as an Assistant Lecturer. Additionally, she contributes to higher education as a part-time Lecturer at Misr University for Science and Technology, where she also held an Assistant Lecturer role between 2015 and 2016. Her responsibilities include curriculum development, supervising student research, and lecturing in oral medicine and radiology. She has also actively participated in specialized training, such as the Ionizing Radiation Protection course, enhancing her qualifications in radiological safety. Her hands-on experience in both academic and applied research settings, combined with her interdisciplinary work in pharmacology and medical imaging, highlights her competence in navigating complex scientific challenges. Her professional trajectory is a testament to her adaptability, diligence, and commitment to innovation in health sciences.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Amira Ibrahim Sayed’s research is centered around oral radiology, radiation protection, and the synthesis of novel pharmaceutical agents with therapeutic potential. Her interdisciplinary work bridges oral health sciences with medicinal chemistry, aiming to improve diagnostics and treatments in fields such as oncology, virology, and inflammation. She has explored the biological effects of magnetic resonance imaging and radiation on dental restorations and bone healing, highlighting her commitment to clinical relevance. Moreover, her innovative research on pyrrolopyrimidine and benzimidazole derivatives positions her at the forefront of drug discovery, particularly in antiviral, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory domains. Dr. Sayed utilizes molecular docking and simulation techniques to predict compound efficacy and mechanism of action. Her dedication to enhancing patient care through translational research, combined with a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals, showcases her as a forward-thinking scientist making meaningful contributions to biomedical innovation.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧲 Effect of Magnetic Resonance Imaging on Microleakage of Amalgam Restoration

  2. 🦴 Radiographic and Histopathologic Evaluation of L-Carnitine and Vitamin E Efficacy on Irradiated Jaw Bones

  3. 🧪 Synthesis of Certain Pyrimidine Derivatives as Antimicrobial and Anti-inflammatory Agents

  4. 🧬 Design, Synthesis, and Molecular Docking of Pyrrolopyrimidine Derivatives as NS5B Polymerase Inhibitors

  5. 🦠 Novel Antiviral Compounds Against Gastroenteric Viral Infections

  6. 🧫 Synthesis of Novel Pyrroles and Fused Pyrroles as Antifungal and Antibacterial Agents

  7. 💊 Synthesis Strategies and Biological Value of Pyrrole and Pyrrolopyrimidine

  8. 🧯 Design and Evaluation of Pyrrolopyrimidine Derivatives as Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Agents

  9. 🦠 Evaluation of Pyrrolopyrimidine Derivatives as Antivirals Against Gastroenteric Viruses

📝 Conclusion:

Dr. Amira Ibrahim Sayed is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Innovative Research Award. Her commitment to interdisciplinary innovation, particularly in radiation research and therapeutic compound development, aligns well with the award’s objective to honor groundbreaking scientific contributions. With a strong track record of impactful publications and academic leadership, she stands out as a researcher dedicated to improving health outcomes through science. Strengthening her global collaborations and translating research into applications will only further her potential for scientific excellence and recognition.