Haiping Zhang | Signal Transduction Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Haiping Zhang | Signal Transduction Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Haiping Zhang, anhui agricultural university, China

Prof. Haiping Zhang is a distinguished plant molecular biologist at the College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University, China. He is affiliated with the Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement on Southern Yellow & Huai River Valley, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs. With a strong focus on improving wheat productivity and resilience, Prof. Zhang has made significant contributions to understanding gene regulation mechanisms in seed dormancy, germination, and yield traits. His recent work investigates transcription factors and their impact on hormone biosynthesis, especially gibberellin and ethylene signaling. Widely published in high-impact journals, his research stands at the intersection of molecular genetics and applied agronomy, aiming to develop cultivars with improved yield stability and adaptability. Prof. Zhang is recognized for his leadership in collaborative research and his commitment to training young scientists in advanced genetic and biotechnological tools for sustainable wheat improvement.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. 🔬 High-Impact Research in Wheat Genetics
    Prof. Zhang’s research addresses essential topics in crop science, particularly seed dormancy and gibberellin regulation, which are critical for yield stability and pre-harvest sprouting resistance in wheat. His studies contribute directly to improving food security and crop resilience.

  2. 📚 Recent Publications in Reputed Journals
    In 2024–2025, he has published in prestigious, peer-reviewed journals such as:

    • International Journal of Biological Macromolecules

    • Environmental and Experimental Botany

    • BMC Plant Biology
      These are respected outlets for plant biology and biotechnology research.

  3. 🎯 Focused and Coherent Research Theme
    His work follows a consistent and meaningful trajectory, exploring transcription factors (e.g., TaERF-2A, TaNAC018-7D) and their regulation of GA biosynthesis genes, directly tied to agronomically important traits.

  4. 🧩 Integrative Methodology
    Prof. Zhang uses an integrative approach, combining molecular biology, genomics (e.g., GWAS), and functional gene analysis to achieve both mechanistic insights and breeding applications.

  5. 🇨🇳 National Importance and Institutional Role
    As a professor at a leading Chinese agricultural university and a core contributor to a Ministry of Agriculture Key Laboratory, his research has both scientific and policy-level relevance in China.

⚙️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. 🌍 Broader International Collaboration
    While his work is impactful, future projects could benefit from expanding global collaborations—particularly with wheat research groups in North America, Europe, and South Asia—to raise visibility and enable joint innovation.

  2. 📣 Visibility and Science Communication
    Prof. Zhang could enhance his global research profile by:

    • Presenting at international conferences

    • Engaging in more open science or outreach platforms

    • Publishing review articles or perspective pieces

  3. 📊 Citations and Impact Tracking
    As the current papers have 0 citations (likely due to recency), tracking future impact (via citation metrics or media attention) will further support long-term recognition.

🎓 Education:

Prof. Haiping Zhang earned his undergraduate degree in Agronomy from Anhui Agricultural University, laying a solid foundation in crop sciences and plant physiology. He pursued his Master’s in Crop Genetics and Breeding, where he developed a keen interest in molecular plant biology. Driven by curiosity in genetic regulation, he obtained a Ph.D. in Plant Molecular Genetics, focusing on hormone signaling and gene expression in cereal crops. His doctoral research emphasized gene-function analysis related to stress tolerance and developmental pathways. To deepen his expertise, Prof. Zhang has also participated in national and international training programs, including advanced workshops in genome editing, transcriptomics, and plant phenotyping. His academic journey reflects a deep commitment to interdisciplinary learning, combining classical breeding principles with cutting-edge molecular tools. This strong educational background has equipped him with the knowledge and skills to tackle complex challenges in wheat improvement and to lead high-impact research projects across China and beyond.

🧪 Experience:

Prof. Haiping Zhang currently serves as a senior professor and principal investigator at the College of Agronomy, Anhui Agricultural University. With over 20 years of experience in plant science, he has led numerous research projects funded by the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture and the National Natural Science Foundation. He is a core member of the Key Laboratory of Wheat Biology and Genetic Improvement, where he mentors graduate students and postdocs in functional genomics and molecular breeding. Prof. Zhang’s expertise spans transcription factor analysis, gene editing (e.g., CRISPR/Cas), and genome-wide association studies (GWAS). He actively collaborates with national wheat breeding centers and has served on editorial boards of agricultural science journals. He is frequently invited as a reviewer and speaker at plant biotechnology conferences. His professional experience reflects a rare blend of teaching, research, and applied innovation in one of the world’s most critical food crops—wheat.

🔬 Research Focus:

Prof. Haiping Zhang’s research centers on molecular regulation of seed dormancy, germination, and yield traits in wheat, with a strong emphasis on plant hormone biosynthesis and transcription factor networks. His work integrates ethylene- and gibberellin-responsive gene pathways to elucidate the mechanisms by which specific genes such as TaGA2ox2-3B and TaGA7ox-A1 influence critical agronomic traits. Prof. Zhang applies advanced tools such as RNA-seq, CRISPR gene editing, and GWAS to dissect regulatory pathways at the genomic level. He also focuses on identifying key genetic variants associated with desirable traits across diverse wheat populations. His aim is to provide molecular targets for wheat breeders seeking to enhance seed viability, resistance to pre-harvest sprouting, and yield stability under varying environmental conditions. By linking basic gene function with applied breeding, his research contributes to China’s national food security strategy and offers global relevance in sustainable crop improvement.

📚 Publication Top Notes:

  1. 📘 The ethylene responsive factor TaERF-2A activates gibberellin 2-oxidase gene TaGA2ox2-3B expression to enhance seed dormancy in wheat – International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2025

  2. 🌱 A wheat NAC transcription factor, TaNAC018-7D, regulates seed dormancy and germination by binding to the GA biosynthesis gene TaGA7ox-A1 – Environmental and Experimental Botany, 2025

  3. 🌾 Single- and multi-locus genome-wide association study reveals genomic regions of thirteen yield-related traits in common wheat – BMC Plant Biology, 2024

🔚 Conclusion:

Prof. Haiping Zhang is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His research is timely, targeted, and methodologically sound—addressing key genetic levers for wheat yield and dormancy control. His publications reflect scientific maturity and innovation, and his institutional role enhances his national significance. With expanded outreach and collaborations, his influence could grow further, both in China and internationally.

Raphael Borie | Gene Regulation Epigenetics | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Raphael Borie | Gene Regulation Epigenetics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Raphael Borie, APHP, France

Dr. Raphaël Borie, born on August 15, 1977, in Paris, France, is a leading expert in pulmonology and genetic respiratory diseases. Currently a University Professor Hospital Practitioner at Bichat Hospital (Paris Cité University), he has consistently contributed to the advancement of respiratory medicine, particularly in the field of interstitial lung diseases (ILDs). His clinical insight, combined with a strong research portfolio, has positioned him as a prominent figure within the OrphaLung network. A dedicated family man with two children, Dr. Borie is widely respected for his integrity, leadership, and commitment to collaborative medicine. His career reflects a unique blend of academic excellence and impactful translational research, bridging the gap between genomics and clinical care in ILD. He is a registered member of the French Medical Council (Ordre des Médecins No. 75/71138), and his research has influenced European clinical guidelines and improved the understanding of rare genetic pulmonary conditions.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Robust Academic Background:
    Dr. Borie holds a PhD in Genetics, Master’s in Physiology, and HDR (habilitation to supervise doctoral research), which underlines his scientific credibility and ability to lead independent research.

  2. Clinical-Research Integration:
    As a University Professor and Hospital Practitioner, he merges frontline patient care with cutting-edge genetic and respiratory disease research.

  3. High Publication Impact:
    With 283 PubMed-indexed articles and an H-index of 60, Dr. Borie’s work demonstrates strong citation influence, indicating widespread recognition and utility in the scientific community.

  4. International Leadership:
    Active in multinational collaborations (e.g., OrphaLung, ERS), he has co-authored major position statements and clinical trials, influencing European respiratory care guidelines.

  5. Innovation in Rare Diseases:
    A recognized expert in familial interstitial lung disease and telomere disorders, his work has led to earlier diagnosis and targeted therapies—critical in fields where few experts exist.

  6. Recognition and Funding:
    He has secured prestigious mobility grants (ERS, Respirology Teachers College)—a marker of trust in his scientific mission and innovation.

🔍 Areas for Improvement:

  • Wider Public Health Translation: While Dr. Borie’s genomic research is exceptional, expanding into real-world health policy implementation could enhance systemic impact.

  • Patient Engagement & Advocacy: Developing patient-oriented tools or registries (e.g., digital apps or platforms for familial lung diseases) may broaden his outreach beyond academia and clinics.

  • Broader Visibility: Although highly cited in professional circles, participation in international keynote talks, editorial leadership, or mainstream health media could elevate his public and professional visibility.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Borie has pursued an extensive and rigorous academic path focused on respiratory and genetic medicine. He obtained his medical degree with specialization in Allergology and Immunopathology in 2006. A year earlier, in 2005, he earned a Master’s degree in Biology and Physiology of Circulation and Respiration. Demonstrating deep interest in genetics, he completed a PhD in Genetics in 2017, contributing significantly to our understanding of genetic underpinnings in pulmonary fibrosis. In 2019, Dr. Borie achieved the prestigious Habilitation à Diriger des Recherches (HDR) from the University of Paris 7, enabling him to supervise doctoral research. His academic background illustrates a powerful integration of clinical expertise and molecular research—providing him with the tools to lead innovative research projects at the intersection of genomics and pulmonology.

🩺 Experience:

Dr. Raphaël Borie has over 15 years of experience in respiratory medicine. From July 2011 to August 2020, he served as a Hospital Practitioner in the Pneumology Department at Bichat Hospital under Professors Aubier and Crestani. Since September 2020, he has been a University Professor Hospital Practitioner in the same department, affiliated with Paris Cité University. He has contributed to patient care, education of medical students and residents, and cutting-edge research. As part of the OrphaLung network, he plays a critical role in advancing diagnostic tools and treatment approaches for rare lung diseases. He is recognized for his collaborative leadership and interdisciplinary contributions across genetics, immunology, and pulmonology. His international collaborations and authorship of over 280 PubMed-indexed publications demonstrate his ongoing commitment to improving patient outcomes through translational research.

🏆 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Borie’s research excellence has been recognized through several prestigious awards and scholarships. In 2017, he received the European Respiratory Society (ERS) Mobility Grant for his work on Identification of Preclinical Markers of Pulmonary Fibrosis, supporting international collaboration and advanced training. The same year, he was also honored with the Respirology Teachers College Mobility Grant, reinforcing his pioneering research on early detection of fibrotic lung disease. His selection for these awards highlights both scientific innovation and dedication to knowledge exchange. His leadership in multi-center studies and involvement in ERS guideline statements further reflect his status as a thought leader in interstitial lung disease. These honors are a testament to his influence in shaping the future of pulmonary genetics and translational respiratory medicine.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Raphaël Borie’s research centers on familial and genetic interstitial lung diseases, particularly the molecular mechanisms behind pulmonary fibrosis, telomere biology, surfactant-related gene variants, and early detection strategies. He works extensively on identifying genetic risk variants (e.g., MUC5B, DSP) and their implications in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Through his participation in the OrphaLung network, he supports genomic screening for hereditary lung disorders and contributes to developing European guidelines. His work bridges genomic medicine and clinical pulmonology, aiming for earlier diagnosis and personalized treatment approaches. He has led and co-authored critical studies on RTEL1 mutations, telomerase complex defects, and familial ILD phenotypes, helping clinicians globally understand the heterogeneity and systemic implications of genetic lung disorders. His collaborative international research ensures his findings are applied in practice to optimize long-term patient care.

📚Publications Top Notes:

  • 🧬 High risk of lung cancer in surfactant-related gene variant carriers – Eur Respir J, 2024

  • 📄 European Respiratory Society Statement on Familial Pulmonary Fibrosis – Eur Respir J, 2022

  • 🧪 Colocalization of Gene Expression and DNA Methylation with Genetic Risk Variants – Am J Respir Crit Care Med, 2022

  • 🧬 RTEL1 mutations and their phenotypic variability – Eur Respir J, 2019

  • 💊 Safety and efficacy of pirfenidone in telomerase mutation carriers – Eur Respir J, 2018

  • 🌐 Diagnosis and follow-up of familial ILD: International survey – BMC Pulmonary Med, 2025

  • 🧬 New 2023 ACR/EULAR APS criteria performance in young patients – Letter, 2025

  • 🫁 A non-resolving cough: a case of familial pulmonary fibrosis – Breathe, 2025

  • 🧬 PFMG2025: Genomic medicine in French healthcare system – Review, 2025

  • 💊 Efficacy of CFTR modulators in ABCA3-deficiency ILD – Open Access, 2025

  • 🧠 Neurological manifestations in VEXAS syndrome – Journal of Neurology, 2025

  • 💉 Real-life use of PEXIVAS reduced-dose regimen in vasculitis – Ann Rheum Dis, 2025

  • 🧫 Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis with lung involvement – Eur Respir J, 2025

  • 🔍 RA-ILD: genetics to clinical overview – Review, 2025

  • 👶 Childhood ILD survivors in adulthood: European study – Eur Respir J, 2025

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Raphaël Borie exemplifies the ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His excellence spans across clinical expertise, academic distinction, and international research leadership, especially in genetic and familial interstitial lung diseases—a field with enormous unmet need. His consistent scholarly output, impactful collaborations, and patient-focused studies highlight a unique blend of depth and innovation. While further expansion into public health frameworks and patient engagement tools would be valuable, his profile already reflects a world-class researcher with transformative contributions to pulmonary medicine.

Noureddine Allouche | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Research Article Award

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Prof. Noureddine Allouche | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Research Article Award

Prof. Noureddine Allouche , Faculty of Sciences of Sfax, University of Sfax , Tunisia

Professor Noureddine Allouche, born in 1971, is a Full Professor of Chemistry at the Faculty of Sciences of Sfax (FSS), Tunisia. He is the Head of the Natural Substances Team in the Laboratory of Organic Chemistry. With over 150 peer-reviewed publications, an h-index of 35, and more than 4500 citations, he is recognized for his impactful research on natural products and environmental valorization. He has led and contributed to multiple national and European research projects, including FP7, H2020, Erasmus+, and ARIMNET. His work focuses on extraction, isolation, and bioactivity of plant-based compounds and sustainable management of industrial waste. Prof. Allouche has supervised 20 Ph.D. theses and 42 M.Sc. students, contributing significantly to scientific advancement in Tunisia and beyond. He is also involved in applied research in green chemistry and cosmetic sciences. His collaborative work and leadership have earned him recognition in the academic and research communities.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. High Research Productivity and Impact

    • Over 150 peer-reviewed scientific articles with a h-index of 35 and 4,500+ citations, which reflect sustained academic influence and quality.

    • Contributor to top-tier journals such as Plants, Biomolecules, and Molecules.

  2. Strong Focus on Societal Relevance

    • Work addresses critical environmental issues such as olive mill waste valorisation, bioconversion, and sustainable resource use.

    • Research applied in green chemistry, natural product-based pharmaceuticals, and eco-cosmetics.

  3. International Collaboration and Leadership

    • Coordinator of six major European and international research projects (FP7, H2020, Erasmus+, ARIMNET).

    • Active partnerships with institutions in France, Germany, and the Mediterranean region, showcasing leadership in multidisciplinary and multinational research.

  4. Methodological Rigor and Innovation

    • Use of advanced analytical techniques (e.g., HPLC-HESI-MS/MS, LC-MS/MS, ESI-MS/MS).

    • Integration of green technologies for natural substance extraction.

  5. Mentorship and Academic Development

    • Supervised 20 Ph.D. theses (plus 4 ongoing), 42 Master’s theses, and numerous diploma projects, especially in applied fields like cosmetic science.

🛠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader International Recognition

    • While highly active in regional and EU collaborations, increased visibility in global North America/Asia-led consortia or global forums could enhance recognition.

  2. Science Communication and Outreach

    • Publishing in public engagement platforms or delivering talks/webinars to non-specialist audiences could expand the impact of his research beyond academia.

  3. Open Access and Data Sharing

    • Encouraging open data practices and reproducibility of extraction and formulation protocols could enhance scientific transparency and citations.

🎓 Education:

Professor Noureddine Allouche earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Sfax between 2000 and 2005, focusing on the treatment and valorisation of olive mill waste, a subject that would lay the foundation for his future research career. Following this, he undertook a prestigious postdoctoral training (2006–2007) at the Institute of Natural Products Chemistry of CNRS in Gif-sur-Yvette, France, enhancing his expertise in natural substances and analytical chemistry. His academic foundation was built on rigorous training in organic chemistry, natural products, and environmental biotechnology. These experiences equipped him with robust research methodologies and an interdisciplinary approach, especially in the extraction and biological evaluation of phytochemicals. His educational path reflects a strong commitment to green and sustainable chemistry, positioning him well for leading high-impact research on natural product development and eco-friendly industrial applications.

💼 Experience:

Professor Allouche has over 20 years of academic and research experience. He currently leads the Natural Substances Team at the Faculty of Sciences of Sfax and supervises a group of over 20 researchers. He has played a vital role in international research collaborations, serving as the national coordinator of six European-funded projects under FP7, ARIMNET, H2020, Erasmus+, and PHC-Maghreb. His experience also includes participation in the INCO-MED project on detoxification and recovery from olive mill wastewater. Prof. Allouche has an extensive mentoring portfolio, having supervised 20 Ph.D. theses (with 4 ongoing) and 42 M.Sc. students. He has authored 150+ articles, two book chapters, and holds two patents. His career reflects a blend of scientific innovation and applied industrial research, particularly in green technologies, bioactive compounds, and waste valorisation. He is also a regular collaborator with European institutions, reflecting his global outlook and leadership in sustainable science.

🔍 Research Focus:

Prof. Noureddine Allouche’s research centers on natural substances chemistry, green extraction methods, and biotechnological valorisation of industrial wastes, particularly from agro-food sources. He has made significant contributions to the identification and biological evaluation of bioactive compounds such as phenolics, flavonoids, and essential oils. His team is particularly active in analyzing plant extracts for their antioxidant, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, and anti-aging activities, often employing advanced techniques like HPLC, LC-MS/MS, and ESI-MS/MS. Another pillar of his work includes developing biopesticides and bio-cosmetics through green and eco-sustainable approaches. He contributes to nanoformulation research and the design of nature-based products aligned with circular economy principles. His interdisciplinary projects bridge chemistry, pharmacology, environmental science, and cosmetic formulation, making his research highly relevant for addressing current scientific and industrial challenges. His recent involvement in projects like GreenCosmIn and 25MAG23 reflects his leading role in European research on sustainable innovation.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🌿 HPLC-HESI-MS/MS Analysis of Phenolic Compounds from Cynoglossum tubiflorus Leaf Extracts (Plants, 2024)

  2. 🫒 Intensification of Biophenols Extraction Yield from Olive Pomace Using Innovative Green Technologies (Biomolecules, 2022)

  3. 🌸 Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Erodium arborescens Extracts Characterized by LC-HESI-MS² (Molecules, 2022)

  4. 🌿 ESI-MS/MS Analysis of Aeonium arboreum Leaf Extracts and Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities (Molecules, 2021)

  5. 🍇 Novel Natural Products for Healthy Ageing from Mediterranean Diet – The MediHealth Project (Molecules, 2018)

🧾 Conclusion:

Professor Noureddine Allouche stands out as a highly qualified and deserving candidate for the Best Research Article Award. His impressive record in sustainable chemistry, natural products research, international project coordination, and scholarly mentorship underlines his academic excellence and real-world impact. His research directly contributes to health, environmental sustainability, and circular economy principles, aligning well with the goals of high-impact, solution-driven science.