Naoki Harada | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Naoki Harada | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Naoki Harada, Osaka Metropolitan University, Japan

Naoki Harada is an Associate Professor at Osaka Metropolitan University, Japan, with extensive expertise in molecular biology, biochemistry, endocrinology, and nutrition. He earned his Ph.D. in Life Sciences from Osaka Prefecture University in 2007. Over the past two decades, Harada has made significant contributions to understanding the physiological and biochemical mechanisms underpinning metabolic diseases, particularly type 2 diabetes. His research, characterized by high citation impact (H-index of 25), centers on pancreatic β-cell function and metabolic regulation. He has published 77 peer-reviewed articles and holds a patent related to therapeutic interventions. Harada has collaborated with leading scientists like Professors Hiroshi Inui and Ryoichi Yamaji, strengthening his academic footprint in both national and international circles. A member of multiple scientific societies, Harada continues to influence the field through impactful research, industry collaboration, and educational leadership.

Publication Profile: 

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✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Consistent Research Output

    • 77 peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals (SCI, Scopus).

    • Recent high-impact studies published in Journal of Biological Chemistry, Scientific Reports, and FASEB BioAdvances.

    • Active research profile with an H-index of 25 and over 1,785 citations.

  2. Innovative Scientific Contributions

    • Identified REDD2 as a novel therapeutic target for type 2 diabetes—bridging basic research with translational medicine.

    • Works across disciplines such as molecular biology, endocrinology, and nutritional biochemistry.

  3. Project Leadership & Industry Engagement

    • Led or participated in 14 major research projects.

    • 5 consultancy/industry-based projects, reflecting application-oriented research.

  4. Academic and Collaborative Network

    • Strong academic collaborations with Professors Hiroshi Inui and Ryoichi Yamaji.

    • Member of prestigious scientific societies (e.g., Japanese Biochemical Society, Japan Society of Nutrition and Food Science).

  5. Scientific Versatility

    • Contributions span fundamental mechanisms (e.g., oxidative stress, insulin signaling) to dietary interventions (e.g., mogrol, oleamide).

    • Demonstrates ability to bridge molecular insights with systemic physiological outcomes.

⚙️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. International Visibility and Engagement

    • Expanding participation in international conferences and editorial boards could elevate his global scientific standing.

    • Pursuing cross-border collaborations would further enrich the translational value of his work.

  2. Commercialization and Patent Activity

    • While one patent is noted, increased focus on intellectual property development and biomedical commercialization could further validate his applied research strength.

  3. Outreach and Communication

    • More active public science communication (e.g., webinars, policy advocacy, media coverage) would amplify the societal impact of his research.

🎓 Education:

Naoki Harada received his Ph.D. in Life Sciences from Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, Japan, in September 2007. His doctoral studies laid the foundation for his interdisciplinary research in molecular biology, biochemistry, and endocrinology. Harada’s academic path was driven by a keen interest in the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying metabolic regulation, particularly in relation to glucose homeostasis and pancreatic function. His education provided him with a solid grounding in experimental techniques, critical thinking, and scientific communication, which have become hallmarks of his later work. The institution, known for excellence in biosciences, enabled Harada to cultivate a strong research acumen. His academic training was complemented by exposure to applied research, linking basic science with clinical and nutritional applications—an approach that he has continued to emphasize throughout his career. His strong educational background plays a pivotal role in his current research endeavors and professional development.

💼 Experience:

Dr. Naoki Harada began his academic career in 2008 as an Assistant Professor at the Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University. He was promoted to Lecturer in 2015, and subsequently to Associate Professor in 2019. Since 2022, he has served as Associate Professor at the Graduate School of Agriculture, Osaka Metropolitan University. Harada has consistently combined teaching with intensive research, mentoring graduate students while advancing his lab’s focus on metabolic diseases and endocrine physiology. His experience includes leading 14 research projects, consulting on 5 industry-linked nutrition initiatives, and co-authoring over 75 scientific papers. His experience reflects a blend of academic leadership, scientific innovation, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Notably, Harada’s role in identifying REDD2 as a therapeutic target exemplifies his contribution to translational science. He maintains strong academic partnerships and actively contributes to several professional societies, making him a respected figure in Japan’s scientific community.

🔬 Research Focus:

Naoki Harada’s research is at the intersection of molecular biology, endocrinology, and nutrition science, with a particular focus on pancreatic β-cell physiology and glucose metabolism. He investigates how oxidative stress, hormonal signals, and metabolic regulators influence insulin secretion and β-cell viability. One of his pivotal contributions is identifying the REDD2 gene as a negative regulator of β-cell function, offering novel therapeutic targets for type 2 diabetes mellitus. His studies also explore nutrient-sensing pathways, G-protein-coupled receptors, and hormonal modulation of energy metabolism. Harada’s recent work delves into the effects of dietary compounds like mogrol and oleamide on metabolic health, linking molecular mechanisms to real-world dietary interventions. His ability to bridge bench science with clinical and nutritional applications sets his research apart. Through collaborations with leading experts and high-impact publications, Harada continues to advance knowledge in the prevention and treatment of metabolic disorders.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  • 🧬 REDD2 confers pancreatic β-cell dysfunction in high-fat diet-fed mice – Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2025

  • 🦷 Androgens suppress ST3GAL1/4, modulating mucin glycosylation and microbiota in mice – Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, 2025

  • 🍟 CRTC1 in MC4R cells regulates dietary fat intake – FASEB BioAdvances, 2024

  • 💉 Insulin reduces ER stress-induced apoptosis in INS-1 β-cells – Physiological Reports, 2024

  • 🍬 Mogrol activates GPBAR1 and insulin secretion, alleviates hyperglycemia – Scientific Reports, 2024

  • 🔥 Androgen receptor suppresses β-adrenoceptor-mediated thermogenesis – Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2022

  • 🏥 Age-dependent sex differences in NAFLD in TSOD and db/db mice – PLOS ONE, 2022

  • 🐭 Dietary oleamide attenuates obesity in caged mice – Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, 2022

  • 🌿 Curcumin targets GPR55 receptor – npj Science of Food, 2022

  • 💪 Oleamide rescues muscle atrophy in small-caged mice – British Journal of Nutrition, 2021

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Naoki Harada demonstrates a clear trajectory of research excellence, grounded in scientific rigor and driven by impactful biomedical questions. His ability to identify molecular mechanisms (e.g., REDD2’s role in β-cell dysfunction) and propose therapeutic directions sets him apart as a leading academic in metabolic disease research. His publication record, industry collaborations, and professional memberships underscore a mature and influential academic career.

Lingyan Zhou | Cell Death Pathway | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Lingyan Zhou | Cell Death Pathway | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Lingyan Zhou , Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University , China

Dr. Lingyan Zhou is a dedicated neuroscientist and clinician specializing in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Currently serving in the Department of Neurology at Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated with Shandong First Medical University, Dr. Zhou holds a doctorate and has made notable contributions to neurodegeneration research through high-impact publications and cutting-edge studies. Her work focuses on molecular mechanisms such as protein aggregation, homocysteinylation, and neuroprotection, with particular attention to α-synuclein and DJ-1. Dr. Zhou has co-authored more than 15 peer-reviewed articles in top-tier journals like Nature Communications, Science Advances, and Aging Cell, earning recognition for her insights into disease-modifying pathways. A researcher with a strong translational focus, she bridges the gap between bench and bedside, aiming to develop therapeutic strategies that can mitigate or reverse neurodegenerative processes. Her commitment to science and patient-centered research makes her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile:

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✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Strong Publication Record in High-Impact Journals
    Dr. Zhou has consistently published in top-tier journals such as Nature Communications, Science Advances, Aging Cell, and Movement Disorders, reflecting the significance and innovation of her work. Many of these are Q1 journals with high impact factors.

  2. Focused Research on Neurodegeneration
    Her core focus on the molecular basis of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, especially novel mechanisms like N-homocysteinylation, STAT1-PARP1, and microRNA signaling, demonstrates depth and relevance to global health priorities.

  3. Translational Impact
    Her research bridges basic science and clinical application, particularly through studies on neuroprotection, early disease biomarkers, and potential therapeutic targets.

  4. Early Career Excellence
    Despite being in the early stages of her career, Dr. Zhou has already authored or co-authored over 17 peer-reviewed publications, many as first or corresponding author, which is exceptional at this stage.

  5. Multidisciplinary Collaborations
    Dr. Zhou’s collaborations with experts across genetics, immunology, bioinformatics, and neurology highlight her integrative approach to complex diseases.

  6. International Visibility
    Multiple articles are indexed in PubMed, Crossref, and DOIs, showing her research has international academic presence and reach.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Greater International Exposure
    While her publication record is strong, further participation in international neuroscience conferences, workshops, or global consortia would enhance visibility and foster leadership roles.

  2. Grant Leadership and Independent Funding
    As she progresses, securing independent research funding and leading grant-funded projects will further demonstrate research independence and strengthen her candidacy for top-tier awards.

  3. Mentorship and Teaching Roles
    Involvement in structured mentorship or supervision of Ph.D./postdoctoral researchers could be better highlighted to show contributions to research training and capacity building.

  4. Innovation Translation Pathway
    Filing patents or initiating translational collaborations with biotech/pharma could underline the practical applicability of her findings.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Lingyan Zhou received her doctorate from Wuhan University, one of China’s leading research institutions, between September 2020 and June 2023. During her Ph.D. training, she developed expertise in molecular neuroscience and translational medicine, with a specific focus on the pathological mechanisms underlying Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Her research explored cellular stress pathways, protein misfolding, and epigenetic regulation in neurodegeneration, leading to multiple first-author publications in high-impact journals. Her academic background provided a solid foundation in experimental techniques such as immunohistochemistry, gene expression analysis, and in vivo disease modeling. The interdisciplinary approach at Wuhan University enriched her understanding of both clinical neurology and basic neuroscience. This rigorous academic training has equipped Dr. Zhou with the analytical and research skills necessary for advancing innovation in neurodegenerative disease treatment.

🧪 Experience:

Since July 2023, Dr. Lingyan Zhou has been serving in the Department of Neurology at Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated with Shandong First Medical University, where she engages in both clinical practice and translational neuroscience research. Prior to that, she completed her doctoral studies at Wuhan University, where she developed a deep interest in the role of homocysteine metabolism and genetic regulation in Parkinson’s disease. Over her career, she has collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to investigate molecular and cellular mechanisms of neurodegeneration and published extensively in internationally recognized journals. Her current position allows her to continue high-impact research while mentoring junior colleagues and participating in multi-center studies. Her combined experience in basic research, clinical neurology, and academic collaboration has established her as a key contributor in the field of neurodegenerative diseases, positioning her well for leadership roles and research recognition such as the Best Researcher Award.

🧠 Research Focus:

Dr. Lingyan Zhou’s research is centered on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive neurodegenerative diseases, with an emphasis on Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Her work has shed light on pathological protein modifications, such as N-homocysteinylation of α-synuclein and DJ-1, which contribute to protein aggregation and neurotoxicity. Additionally, she investigates the neuroprotective roles of vitamins, retinoic acid, and microRNAs in slowing disease progression. Dr. Zhou is also exploring how infectious diseases like SARS-CoV-2 may trigger or exacerbate neurological disorders, expanding the understanding of systemic factors in brain health. Her studies leverage both in vitro and in vivo models to unravel pathways involving STAT1, PARP1, and Notch signaling. By identifying potential therapeutic targets and biomarkers, her research aims to guide the development of novel treatment strategies that could improve outcomes for patients suffering from movement disorders and cognitive decline.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧪 N-homocysteinylation of alpha-synuclein promotes its aggregation and neurotoxicity – Aging Cell (2022)

  2. 🧠 Association of vitamin B2 intake with cognitive performance in older adults: a cross-sectional study – J Transl Med (2023)

  3. 🧬 Homocysteine and Parkinson’s disease – CNS Neurosci Ther (2023)

  4. 🧴 Retinoic Acid Prevents alpha-Synuclein Preformed Fibrils-Induced Toxicity via Inhibiting STAT1-PARP1 Signaling – Mol Neurobiol (2023)

  5. 🧫 N-homocysteinylation of DJ-1 promotes neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease – Aging Cell (2024)

  6. 🦠 SARS-CoV-2: Underestimated damage to nervous system – Travel Med Infect Dis (2020)

  7. 💊 Potential therapeutic drugs for ischemic stroke based on bioinformatics analysis – Int J Neurosci (2019)

  8. 🧬 PTPN22 Gene Polymorphisms and Stroke Susceptibility – Dis Markers (2019)

  9. 🧪 IL-18 Gene Polymorphisms and Risk of Ischemic Stroke: A Meta-analysis – Neuroreport (2019)

  10. 🚬 Aromatic hydrocarbon receptor links smoking and rheumatoid arthritis – Clin Exp Rheumatol (2020)

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Lingyan Zhou demonstrates an exceptional trajectory for a young neuroscience researcher. Her deep and original contributions to unraveling molecular mechanisms in neurodegeneration, particularly Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, make her highly deserving of recognition. The breadth and quality of her publication record—combined with her translational outlook—signal a rising star in neurodegenerative disease research.

yu chen | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. yu chen | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Prof. yu chen , Chengdu University of Technology , China

Prof. Yu Chen is a leading researcher in the field of perovskite solar cells, with a particular emphasis on interfacial engineering and charge transport materials. He is currently a Principal Investigator at the Chengdu University of Technology, College of Materials and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering. His academic journey spans top institutions in China, culminating in a Ph.D. from Nanjing University of Science and Technology under the guidance of Prof. Shenli Zhang and Prof. Wenhua Zhang. Prof. Chen has co-authored numerous high-impact journal articles, including in Nature Communications, Advanced Materials, and Chemical Engineering Journal, significantly contributing to the field of renewable energy. His innovative approaches to improving stability and efficiency in perovskite photovoltaics have earned him national recognition. Prof. Chen’s work blends academic rigor with practical innovation, aiming to push the boundaries of solar cell technologies toward commercial viability and sustainability.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  • High-impact Publications: Prof. Chen has published extensively in top-tier journals such as Nature Communications, Advanced Materials, Angewandte Chemie, and Advanced Functional Materials, indicating global recognition and scientific rigor.

  • Cutting-edge Research Focus: His work on perovskite solar cells, especially on buried interface engineering, inorganic transport layers, and molecular self-assembly, addresses fundamental and applied challenges in next-generation photovoltaic technologies.

  • Innovation & Application: Techniques like guanylation reaction for MACl removal and ion compensation strategies demonstrate a deep understanding of material-device interplay and have direct implications for industrial application.

  • Leadership & Funding: As a Principal Investigator at Chengdu University of Technology, leading national-level projects (e.g., Qomolangma Talent Program), Prof. Chen has proven both scientific leadership and funding competitiveness.

  • International Collaboration: His co-authorship with global leaders such as Prof. Shengzhong Liu and Prof. Wenhua Zhang strengthens his international research presence.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  • Broader Research Diversification: While his specialization in perovskites is a clear strength, expanding into hybrid systems (e.g., tandem solar cells with silicon or organic-inorganic integration) could elevate his interdisciplinary impact.

  • Industry Partnership: Greater collaboration with industrial partners or startups could accelerate the commercial translation of his innovations.

  • International Fellowships or Visiting Positions: Engaging in international academic exchanges or fellowships (e.g., Marie Curie, Humboldt) could further enhance global visibility.

🎓 Education:

Prof. Yu Chen completed his Ph.D. in Materials Science from Nanjing University of Science and Technology (2019–2023) under the supervision of Prof. Shenli Zhang and Prof. Wenhua Zhang. During this period, he focused on advanced interfacial design and ion migration in perovskite solar cells. He earned his M.Eng. in Chemical Engineering from Changzhou University (2016–2019), mentored by Prof. Ningyi Yuan and Prof. Wenhua Zhang, where he laid the foundation for his research on inorganic materials. His academic journey began with a B.Eng. in Materials Science from Pujiang University (2012–2016), under the supervision of Prof. Jian Huang. This strong and progressive academic background empowered Prof. Chen with a multi-scale understanding of materials synthesis, structural engineering, and device-level optimization — skills now central to his research on high-efficiency photovoltaic technologies.

💼 Experience:

Since 2023, Prof. Yu Chen has been serving as a Principal Investigator at Chengdu University of Technology’s College of Materials and Chemistry & Chemical Engineering. He leads a research group focused on developing next-generation perovskite solar cells, emphasizing stable, efficient, and scalable photovoltaic systems. Prof. Chen has developed several novel techniques involving inorganic hole/electron transport layers and interfacial dipole engineering. His experience spans fundamental research, technology translation, and academic collaboration with prestigious researchers such as Prof. Shengzhong Liu and Prof. Yihui Wu. He is also the recipient and presiding investigator of projects like the “Qomolangma Talent Introduction Program” and the Youth Foundation of Sichuan Natural Science Foundation. His role combines leadership, mentorship, and high-level experimental research, making him an influential figure in China’s renewable energy academic landscape.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Prof. Yu Chen has received several prestigious accolades for his outstanding contributions to solar cell research. In 2019, he was honored with the “Excellent Wall Poster Award” at the China Material Conference, recognizing his innovative visualization of research. In 2023, he earned the title of “Outstanding Graduate” from the China Academy of Engineering Physics, showcasing both his academic excellence and research impact. As the Principal Investigator of prominent research programs such as the Qomolangma Talent Introduction Program, he has demonstrated leadership and vision. His work has been continuously supported by competitive grants, including the Youth Foundation of the Sichuan Natural Science Foundation. These honors reflect not only Prof. Chen’s personal achievements but also his potential to lead transformative advancements in solar energy technologies, particularly in high-efficiency, stable, and scalable perovskite solar cells.

🔬 Research Focus:

Prof. Yu Chen’s research focuses on the design and development of highly efficient and stable perovskite solar cells, with specific expertise in buried interface engineering, inorganic charge transport materials, and defect passivation strategies. His work emphasizes inverted perovskite solar architectures, which promise better long-term stability and commercial adaptability. A key aspect of his research is understanding how molecular self-assembly and interfacial dipole regulation can enhance charge extraction and minimize recombination losses. He has developed novel methods to remove residuals, such as MACl, and form stable 2D perovskite structures in situ, improving device performance. By integrating materials chemistry, device physics, and advanced fabrication, Prof. Chen addresses critical bottlenecks in the field. His research not only advances academic understanding but also aligns with industrial needs for reliable and sustainable photovoltaic technologies.

📚 Publication Top Notes:

  1. 🧪 Enlarging moment and regulating orientation of buried interfacial dipole for efficient inverted perovskite solar cells – Nature Communications, 2025

  2. ⚗️ High‐Efficiency Perovskite Solar Cells Enabled by Guanylation Reaction for Removing MACl Residual – Angewandte Chemie Int. Ed., 2025

  3. 🧬 Tailoring Buried Interface and Minimizing Energy Loss by Aluminum Glycinate Molecules – Advanced Materials, 2025

  4. 🧫 A regulation strategy of self-assembly molecules for achieving efficient inverted perovskite solar cells – PCCP, 2024

  5. 🧠 A Comprehensive Review of Organic Hole‐Transporting Materials for Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells – Advanced Functional Materials, 2024

  6. 🔍 Elimination of Buried Interface Defects for Efficient Wide-Bandgap Perovskite Solar Cells – Chinese Journal of Chemical Physics, 2023

  7. 🧱 Research Progress of Inorganic Hole Transport Materials in Perovskite Solar Cells – Journal of Inorganic Materials, 2023

  8. 🔋 Ion Compensation of Buried Interface Enables Efficient MA‐Free Perovskite Solar Cells – Advanced Functional Materials, 2022

  9. 💊 Defect mitigation using d-penicillamine for stable MA-free perovskite solar cells – Chemical Science, 2021

  10. ⚙️ Reducing carrier transport barrier in anode interface enables stable inverted mesoscopic perovskite solar cells – Chemical Engineering Journal, 2021

🔚 Conclusion:

Prof. Yu Chen stands out as a highly promising and already accomplished materials scientist. His strong academic record, innovative research on energy materials, leadership in national research programs, and consistent output in prestigious journals make him exceptionally qualified for the Best Researcher Award. While early in his career, his trajectory shows the hallmark of a future leader in clean energy research. With minor expansions in scope and outreach, Prof. Chen is poised to become a central figure in advancing sustainable photovoltaic technologies.