Jianghan Chen | Dermatology | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. Dr. Jianghan Chen | Dermatology | Research Excellence Award

Shanghai Fourth People’s Hospital | China

Dr. Jianghan Chen is an accomplished clinical researcher whose work centers on dermatological science, with a particular emphasis on fungal diseases, photodermatoses, and cutaneous carcinogenesis. Their research has significantly advanced the understanding of keratinocyte transformation, especially through a single-cell transcriptomic project mapping the progression from actinic keratosis to skin carcinoma. This work provides valuable molecular insights into early malignant changes, offering potential markers for diagnosis and therapeutic intervention. The applicant has led multiple competitive research projects, including those supported by major national funding bodies, demonstrating strong scientific leadership and consistent contributions to dermatology. Their publication record includes thirteen SCI-indexed papers as first or corresponding author, with a highest impact factor of 7.7, reflecting sustained scholarly output and influence. They maintain active involvement in scientific communities through professional committee leadership and collaborations that support the advancement of dermatological research. Their expertise in infectious skin diseases and light-related dermatoses contributes broadly to clinical innovation and translational research, strengthening the evidence base for improved diagnostic approaches and therapeutic strategies within the field.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications: 

[Authors]*, & others. (2024). Increased expression and prognostic significance of BYSL in melanoma. Journal of Immunotherapy.

[Authors]*, & others. (2024). Electrospinning/3D printing drug-loaded antibacterial polycaprolactone nanofiber/sodium alginate–gelatin hydrogel bilayer scaffold for skin wound repair. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules.

[Authors]*, & others. (2024). Advancements in elucidating the pathogenesis of actinic keratosis: Present state and future prospects. [Journal name not provided].

[Authors]*, & others. (2022). Identification of lncRNAs and their regulatory relationships with mRNAs in response to Cryptococcus neoformans infection of THP-1 cells. BioMed Research International.

Soner Soylu | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Soner Soylu | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Soner Soylu | Hatay Mustafa Kemal University | Turkey

Prof. Dr. Soner Soylu is a distinguished Turkish plant pathologist affiliated with the Department of Plant Protection at the Faculty of Agriculture, Mustafa Kemal University, Antakya, Turkey. With a career spanning over three decades, he has contributed significantly to plant pathology, disease resistance, and biological control methods. He began his academic journey as a research assistant and steadily rose through the academic ranks to become a full professor. Prof. Soylu has published extensively in internationally refereed journals, earning global recognition for his innovative research on microbial interactions, phytoalexin induction, and the antifungal properties of essential oils. His interdisciplinary approach bridges plant physiology, microbiology, and integrated pest management. Through education, research, and mentoring, he has shaped the future of plant protection science in Turkey and beyond. His dedication, innovative methodologies, and consistent academic output make him a leading candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profiles: 

Google Scholar
Scopus
Orcid

Education:

Prof. Dr. Soner Soylu pursued his academic training in plant protection and pathology, laying a strong foundation in agricultural sciences. His academic journey commenced at Mustafa Kemal University, where he later joined the faculty. His doctoral research focused on plant-microbe interactions and the biochemical basis of disease resistance, positioning him at the forefront of plant defense studies. Further academic collaboration, including research with international institutions such as the University of Leicester (UK), enriched his expertise in ultrastructural analysis, phytoalexin accumulation, and molecular plant-microbe interactions. His education was deeply rooted in both theoretical learning and hands-on laboratory research, fostering a holistic approach to plant pathology. He is particularly recognized for translating fundamental research into applicable strategies for crop protection, making his academic background a strong pillar for his globally acknowledged research portfolio.

Experience:

Prof. Dr. Soner Soylu has over 30 years of academic and research experience in plant pathology. He started as a Research Assistant (1993–1998) at the Department of Plant Protection, Mustafa Kemal University, where he engaged in both education and scientific investigation. He served as an Assistant Professor, advancing to higher academic roles over time. His responsibilities have included lecturing undergraduate and postgraduate students, supervising theses, and leading research projects focused on plant-pathogen interactions and biocontrol methods. His work is known for integrating field, lab, and molecular techniques to tackle critical plant diseases, especially in tomato, Arabidopsis, and other economically significant crops. His international collaborations and interdisciplinary research have elevated the university’s research profile. Prof. Soylu’s experience reflects a blend of academic rigor, mentorship, and field impact, making him a seasoned researcher and educator in his domain.

Research Focus:

Prof. Dr. Soner Soylu’s research focuses on plant-pathogen interactions, biological control, and the mechanisms of induced resistance in plants. He has made significant contributions to understanding how essential oils from various medicinal plants can act as antifungal and antibacterial agents, targeting major plant pathogens like Phytophthora infestans, Botrytis cinerea, and Clavibacter michiganensis. His studies often utilize light and electron microscopy, biochemical assays, and molecular techniques to uncover plant defense responses, including the accumulation of phytoalexins and defense enzymes. Additionally, he has investigated elicitor-triggered immunity and the role of lipopolysaccharides in disease suppression. His interdisciplinary approach connects plant physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, and integrated disease management. His work not only enhances scientific understanding but also offers sustainable solutions for agricultural disease control. His research remains vital to food security and sustainable agriculture, earning him international citations and making him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Notes: 

  1. First report of powdery mildew on mulberry caused by Phyllactinia guttata – Plant Pathology 

  2. Induction of phytoalexin in broad bean via elicitors – Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry 

  3. Characterization of elicitors from Peronospora parasitica – Phytoparasitica 

  4. First report of downy leaf spot in walnuts by Microstroma juglandis – Plant Pathology 

  5. Acibenzolar-S-methyl induced resistance in tomato against bacterial canker – Plant Science 

  6. Powdery mildew on dill by Erysiphe heraclei – Plant Pathology 

  7. Microscopic study of Arabidopsis–Peronospora interaction – Journal of Phytopathology 

  8. Acibenzolar-S-methyl induces enzymes in tomato – Plant Pathology 

  9. First report of cercospora leaf spot on swiss chard – Plant Pathology 

  10. Ultrastructure of Arabidopsis–Albugo candida interaction – Physiol. and Mol. Plant Pathology 

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Prof. Dr. Soner Soylu exemplifies the ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award through his innovative, sustainable, and impactful research in plant pathology. His legacy includes novel findings on natural disease control agents, significant publications in respected journals, and a commitment to merging fundamental and applied sciences. Despite minor areas for growth in international exposure and technological integration, his academic journey reflects excellence, perseverance, and relevance in solving real-world agricultural challenges. His contributions have direct implications for food security, crop health, and sustainable farming—hallmarks of a true leader in plant protection research. Awarding Prof. Soylu would not only honor a career of scientific excellence but also spotlight the importance of eco-friendly innovations in agriculture.

Paola Cynthia Demeni Emoh | Endophytic fungi | Young Scientist Award

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Mrs. Paola Cynthia Demeni Emoh | Endophytic fungi | Young Scientist Award

Mrs. Paola Cynthia Demeni Emoh , University of Yaoundé 1 , Cameroon

Cynthia Paola Demeni Emoh is a Ph.D. candidate in Medical Microbiology at the University of Yaoundé I, Cameroon. She has a keen interest in the antimicrobial properties of natural products and their potential applications in treating infectious diseases like malaria and pneumonia. Cynthia also serves as a part-time lecturer, teaching microbiology practicals at her university. She is an active researcher and has contributed to multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses, focusing on infectious diseases. Her collaborations with international networks, such as the AGNES and YaBiNaPA programs, have expanded her research reach. Cynthia is also a member of the American Society of Microbiology and a contributor to various scientific journals. With her solid academic background and dedication to scientific advancement, Cynthia continues to strive for excellence in both her research and teaching roles.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

Strengths for the Award:

Cynthia Paola Demeni Emoh is an outstanding candidate for the Research for Young Scientist Award due to her extensive academic background, innovative research, and significant contributions to microbiology. Her work on endophytic fungi and infectious diseases, particularly malaria, demonstrates her commitment to addressing public health challenges in sub-Saharan Africa. Her experience with systematic reviews and meta-analyses further highlights her expertise in synthesizing global data to drive scientific advancements.

Areas for Improvement:

While Cynthia has established a strong foundation in microbiology, she could benefit from additional experience in interdisciplinary research, particularly in translational science. Collaborations with clinicians or public health experts could broaden her research’s practical applications and improve its potential for real-world impact.

Education:

Cynthia’s educational journey began at the University of Yaoundé I, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology in 2016. She later pursued a Master’s degree in Medical Microbiology at the same institution, which she completed in 2019. During her master’s program, she focused on assessing the antibacterial properties of endophytic fungi isolated from Alstonia boonei and Greenwayodendron suaveolens, particularly their effectiveness against pneumonia bacteria. Building on her master’s research, Cynthia is now a Ph.D. candidate in Medical Microbiology at the University of Yaoundé I. Her Ph.D. research, initiated in 2020, examines the antiplasmodial activity of endophytic fungi extracts from Alstonia boonei and their modes of action. Cynthia’s academic trajectory is shaped by a solid foundation in microbiology, driven by her interest in infectious diseases and their treatment. She has also earned a Baccalaureate in Life Sciences from François Xavier Vogt College in Yaoundé.

Experience:

Cynthia’s professional experience spans both teaching and research in microbiology. She has been a part-time lecturer at the University of Yaoundé I since October 2018, where she is responsible for the practical component of microbiology courses. She has also contributed significantly as an assistant researcher at the Biotechnology Centre of the University of Yaoundé I in 2019, where she worked on phytopathology. Cynthia’s research experience extends beyond Cameroon, having completed an internship at the University of Abomey-Calavi in Benin in 2023, focusing on applied microbiology and pharmacology. Additionally, she interned at the Centre Pasteur of Cameroon in 2022 and 2023, contributing to malaria research. She has been a member of various research groups, including the Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis team led by Dr. Kenmoe Sebastien at the Centre Pasteur of Cameroon. Cynthia’s research output and collaborations have strengthened her expertise in microbiology, especially in the areas of infectious diseases and natural products.

Research Focus:

Cynthia’s research focuses on investigating the antimicrobial properties of endophytic fungi extracts, with particular emphasis on their antiplasmodial and antibacterial activities. Her Ph.D. research centers on the antiplasmodial effects of fungi isolated from Alstonia boonei, a plant known for its medicinal properties. She explores how these fungal extracts can serve as alternative treatments for malaria by assessing their activity against Plasmodium falciparum. Cynthia’s earlier work, during her Master’s program, also centered on the antibacterial properties of endophytic fungi from Alstonia boonei and Greenwayodendron suaveolens and their ability to combat pneumonia bacteria. In addition to her laboratory studies, she has contributed to systematic reviews and meta-analyses, analyzing the prevalence, risk factors, and epidemiology of various infectious diseases, such as hepatitis, tuberculosis, and Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever. Cynthia’s research is driven by the need for novel antimicrobial agents, especially against drug-resistant pathogens and emerging diseases in sub-Saharan Africa.

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Assessment of the antiplasmodial and cytotoxicity effects of ethyl acetate extracts against Plasmodium falciparum strains (2025) 🦠🧪
  2. Morphological and molecular characterization of endophytic fungi isolated from Alstonia boonei De Wild (2025) 🔬🍄
  3. Stage-Dependent Release of Plasmodium Falciparum Homolog of T-Cell Immunomodulatory Protein and Suppression of Macrophage-Inflammatory Protein-1 (2025) 🦠💉
  4. Isolation, identification of endophytic fungi from Codiaeum variegatum and assessment of anti-amoebic and anti-inflammatory potential (2024) 🍄🌱
  5. Systematic review with meta-analysis of the global host range of Mycobacterium ulcerans (2024) 🌍🦠
  6. Hepatitis B, C, and D virus infections and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in Africa (2022) 🦠🌍
  7. Global prevalence and case fatality rate of Enterovirus D68 infections (2022) 🌍🦠
  8. Systematic review of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus epidemiology in humans and animals (2021) 🩸🦠
  9. Worldwide epidemiology of Lassa virus in humans and rodents (2020) 🌍🦠
  10. Influence of confounding factors on associations between viral LRTI and subsequent wheezing development (2021) 🧳👶

Conclusion:

Cynthia is a promising young researcher with a clear focus on addressing critical health issues. Her dedication to advancing scientific knowledge, particularly in the fight against infectious diseases, makes her an excellent candidate for the Research for Young Scientist Award.