Minjian Chen | Metabolism | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Minjian Chen | Metabolism | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Minjian Chen, Nanjing Medical University, China

Professor Minjian Chen is a leading academic in toxicology and reproductive health at Nanjing Medical University (NMU). After earning both his Bachelor’s in Preventive Medicine (2008) and Ph.D. in Toxicology (2013) at NMU, he undertook postdoctoral research there and served as a guest researcher at the U.S. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), NIH. Since 2023, he has held a professorial position and was recognized as an Outstanding Young Backbone Teacher in Jiangsu’s prestigious “Qinglan Project.” His work spans reproductive toxicity, metabolomics, and exposomics, focusing on environmental and nutritional factors affecting fertility. With over 10 funded national and provincial research projects and numerous peer-reviewed publications, Professor Chen has significantly contributed to understanding spermatogenic dysfunction and metabolic profiling in reproductive biology. He continues to push boundaries in public health and environmental toxicology.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Strong Academic Foundation

    • Bachelor’s and Ph.D. in Preventive Medicine and Toxicology from a top Chinese institution (Nanjing Medical University).

    • Postdoctoral research and international exchange experience, including at the U.S. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIH/NIEHS).

  2. Outstanding Research Leadership

    • Principal Investigator (PI) for multiple competitive national and provincial grants, with over ¥2 million in individual research funding and participation in projects exceeding ¥70 million total budget.

    • Active contributor in 11 funded research projects, with core themes on reproductive toxicology, metabolomics, and AI-based diagnostics.

  3. High-Impact Publications

    • Recent publications in top-tier international journals including EMBO Journal, Molecular & Cellular Proteomics, IJMS, Theriogenology, and Toxics.

    • Regular authorship and collaborations on cutting-edge studies in exposomics, spermatogenesis, and reproductive metabolomics.

  4. Recognition and Honors

    • Named Outstanding Young Backbone Teacher under Jiangsu’s “Qinglan Project”.

    • Appointed Distinguished Young Academic Leader at Nanjing Medical University.

  5. Interdisciplinary & Translational Approach

    • Work spans basic toxicology, systems biology, and big-data-driven clinical research, positioning him well for translational impact in reproductive health and environmental medicine.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Expanded Global Visibility

    • While Prof. Chen has published widely, further collaboration with global institutions could help amplify international recognition.

  2. Clinical Translation

    • While he has contributed to diagnostic R&D and cohort-based studies, greater emphasis on real-world clinical application or intervention trials could boost impact and societal benefit.

  3. Leadership in Multi-National Consortia

    • Assuming leadership roles in global consortia or organizations could further solidify his position as a top-tier researcher.

🎓 Education:

Professor Minjian Chen pursued his entire academic training at Nanjing Medical University, beginning with a Bachelor’s degree in Preventive Medicine from 2003 to 2008. His passion for understanding environmental impacts on human health led him to complete a Ph.D. in Toxicology between 2008 and 2013. During his doctoral studies, he specialized in reproductive toxicology, investigating the metabolic mechanisms by which environmental toxins affect male fertility. Following his doctorate, he deepened his expertise with postdoctoral training (2013–2018) at the NMU School of Basic Medicine. In 2014, he was selected for the China–Australia Young Scientist Exchange Program, an early recognition of his academic promise and leadership. His international exposure was further enhanced through a research fellowship at the U.S. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIH) from 2019 to 2020. This robust educational background laid a strong foundation for his research in reproductive health, metabolomics, and environmental toxicology.

💼 Experience:

Professor Chen began his academic career as a Lecturer at NMU in 2013, shortly after completing his Ph.D. Over the following decade, he rose through the ranks, becoming a Professor in 2023, thanks to his prolific research and educational contributions. Between 2013 and 2018, he completed an intensive postdoctoral fellowship at NMU, focusing on toxicological studies related to male reproductive health. In 2019–2020, he broadened his global research experience by joining the NIEHS at the U.S. NIH as a guest researcher. His teaching and mentorship have earned him several accolades, including Distinguished Young Academic Leader at NMU and Outstanding Young Backbone Teacher in Jiangsu’s “Qinglan Project.” Professor Chen also plays a vital role in large-scale, national R&D programs and key provincial projects in China, acting as a Principal Investigator (PI) or Sub-project PI in more than ten funded initiatives in toxicology, reproductive biology, and data-driven diagnostics.

🔬 Research Focus:

Professor Minjian Chen’s research is centered on environmental toxicology, reproductive health, and metabolomics. His primary scientific contributions lie in uncovering how environmental toxins—including phytochemicals, metals, and industrial chemicals—disrupt male fertility through metabolic pathways. His studies on arachidonic acid metabolism, n-6 PUFA pathways, and sorbitol metabolism have advanced our understanding of oligospermia and other reproductive dysfunctions. More recently, Professor Chen has explored the application of integrative omics (metabolomics + transcriptomics) in reproductive cells like oocytes and cumulus cells, providing insights into fertility and early development. He is also involved in big-data-driven diagnosis for pregnancy complications such as intrahepatic cholestasis and macrosomia, and in nationwide projects investigating genetic risks in ART offspring and structural birth defects. His work is highly interdisciplinary, blending toxicology, biochemistry, epidemiology, and computational biology to push the frontiers of precision reproductive health and environmental health sciences.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 Association of Personal Care and Consumer Product Chemicals with Long-Term Amenorrhea: Insights into Serum Globulin and STAT3 (Toxics, 2025)

  2. 🧫 Characterization of Metabolic Patterns in Mouse Spermatogenesis and Its Clinical Implications in Humans (IJMS, 2025)

  3. 🧪 A Metabolome and Microbiome Analysis of Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Insights into the Carnosine–Histidine Metabolic Pathway (Toxics, 2024)

  4. 🐷 Characterization of Metabolic Patterns in Porcine Cumulus Cells During Meiotic Maturation (Theriogenology, 2024)

  5. 🐐 Combined Analysis of Temporal Metabolomics and Transcriptomics in Goat Oocytes During Maturation (Theriogenology, 2024)

  6. 🧍 Exposure to Molybdate Results in Metabolic Disorder: Urine Elementome and Serum Metabolome in Mice (Toxics, 2024)

  7. 🧬 Integrative Omics Reveals the Metabolic Patterns During Oocyte Growth (Molecular & Cellular Proteomics, 2024)

  8. 🌐 The Global Phosphorylation Landscape of Mouse Oocytes During Meiotic Maturation (EMBO Journal, 2024)

  9. ⚗️ Environmental Chemical Exposomics and Metabolomics in Toxicology: The Latest Updates (Toxics, 2024)

  10. 👶 Cohort Profile: The Jiangsu Birth Cohort (International Journal of Epidemiology, 2023)

📝 Conclusion:

Professor Minjian Chen is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. His consistent research excellence, broad project leadership, publication strength, and interdisciplinary work make him a standout candidate. His research is not only scientifically rigorous but also socially relevant—targeting reproductive health challenges through environmental and metabolic lenses. With additional emphasis on global outreach and clinical application, Prof. Chen’s impact could become even more transformative.

Pawan Kumar Verma | Pharmacology & Toxicology | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Prof Dr Pawan Kumar Verma | Pharmacology & Toxicology | Outstanding Scientist Award

Prof Dr Pawan Kumar Verma , Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu , India

Dr. Pawan Kumar Verma is a distinguished Professor in the Division of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu. With over 17 years of experience in teaching and research, he has significantly contributed to the field of veterinary sciences. Dr. Verma holds a Bachelor’s degree from G. B. Pant University, a Master’s from Indian Veterinary Research Institute, and a PhD from SKUAST-Jammu. His research focuses on the toxicological impacts of agrochemicals and metals, exploring the protective effects of medicinal herbs. A dedicated educator, he has guided numerous postgraduate students and served as a resource person in various workshops. Dr. Verma’s commitment to science is reflected in his extensive publications and active participation in scientific societies.

Publication Profile 

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Research Contributions:
    • Prof. Verma has published over 145 research articles, with more than 2000 citations, demonstrating significant impact in the field of veterinary pharmacology and toxicology.
    • His research focuses on critical issues, such as the toxicological effects of agrochemicals and the potential of medicinal herbs for mitigation, which is highly relevant to current environmental and health concerns.
  2. Awards and Recognitions:
    • Recipient of multiple prestigious awards including the Young Scientist Award (2011), Distinguished Scientist Award (2020), and National Research Excellence Award (2022), underscoring his contributions to science and education.
    • Recognized as a Fellow of the Academy of Sciences for Animal Welfare, highlighting his commitment to animal welfare.
  3. Leadership and Mentorship:
    • As a guiding figure for numerous postgraduate students, including 4 MVSc and 1 PhD, Prof. Verma actively contributes to the next generation of researchers.
    • His roles in various academic and professional societies enhance his leadership profile and influence in the field.
  4. Editorial and Organizational Roles:
    • Serves on the editorial boards of multiple national and international journals, contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge.
    • Actively involved in organizing conferences and workshops, promoting collaboration and dissemination of research findings.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Collaborative Efforts:
    • While Prof. Verma has established himself well within national research frameworks, expanding international collaborations could enhance the global impact of his research.
  2. Interdisciplinary Research:
    • Exploring interdisciplinary approaches by integrating insights from related fields (e.g., environmental science, public health) could enrich his work on toxicological studies and their implications.
  3. Public Engagement:
    • Increasing outreach efforts to communicate research findings to non-specialist audiences could enhance public awareness of veterinary pharmacology issues and their societal implications.

Education 

Dr. Pawan Kumar Verma completed his Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry at G. B. Pant University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology in 2001. He then pursued a Master’s in Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology at the Indian Veterinary Research Institute, graduating in 2003 while receiving the Junior Research Fellowship from ICAR, New Delhi. His quest for knowledge led him to the Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu, where he earned a PhD in 2015, specializing in Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology. Dr. Verma’s educational journey is marked by a dedication to both academic excellence and practical research, establishing a strong foundation for his career in veterinary sciences.

Experience 

Dr. Pawan Kumar Verma has a robust professional background with over 17 years of experience in veterinary education and research. He joined Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu in 2005, starting as an Assistant Professor cum Junior Scientist, and has since ascended to the role of Professor in the Division of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology. Throughout his tenure, Dr. Verma has taken on various leadership roles, including Principal Investigator for several research projects funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research and the Department of Science and Technology. He has guided multiple MVSc and PhD students, significantly impacting their academic development. Additionally, he actively participates in organizing conferences, training sessions, and workshops, furthering his commitment to knowledge dissemination in the field.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Pawan Kumar Verma has received numerous accolades for his exceptional contributions to veterinary sciences. In 2011, he was awarded the Young Scientist Award by the Department of Science and Technology, Jammu & Kashmir. He became an Associate Member of the National Academy of Veterinary Sciences in 2019 and received an Associate Fellowship from the Indian Society of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology the same year. His outstanding research earned him the Research Excellence Award in 2019, followed by the Distinguished Scientist Award in 2020. In 2022, he was honored with the National Research Excellence Award and the Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Best Teacher Award in Pharmacology and Toxicology. Most recently, Dr. Verma was recognized as a Fellow of the Academy of Sciences for Animal Welfare in 2022, highlighting his dedication to improving animal welfare through scientific research.

Research Focus

Dr. Pawan Kumar Verma’s research primarily investigates the interactive toxicological effects of agrochemicals and heavy metals, along with their mitigation through the use of medicinal herbs. His studies focus on understanding the mechanisms of toxicity and exploring therapeutic approaches to alleviate the harmful effects of these substances in experimental animal models. Dr. Verma is actively engaged in research projects sponsored by prominent organizations, including the Indian Council of Medical Research and the Department of Science and Technology. His work has led to significant advancements in the fields of veterinary pharmacology and toxicology, particularly regarding the protective effects of natural compounds against chemical-induced toxicity. He has authored over 145 publications in reputable journals, contributing valuable insights to the scientific community and enhancing our understanding of animal health and safety.

Publication Top Notes

  • Acute cardiorenal dysfunctions induced by isoprenaline in Wistar rats: Mitigating potential of Juglans regia hull extract 🍃
  • Ameliorative and protective effect of Bergenia ciliata (Haw.) Sternb. extract against acetaminophen-induced hepato-renal damage in rats 🩺
  • Ameliorative Potential of Ginger (Zingiber officinale) following Repeated Coexposure with Fluoride and Dimethoate in Blood and Brain of Wistar Rats 🌱
  • Quercetin and catechin supplementation provide protection against arsenic and mancozeb-induced toxicity in Wistar rats 🍎
  • Therapeutic Efficacy of Ethanolic Extract of Curcuma longa and its Component, Curcumin against Experimental Cryptosporidiosis in Mice 🐭
  • Neuroprotective effect of quercetin and Zingiber officinale on sodium arsenate-induced neurotoxicity in rats 🧠
  • Protective Effect of Quercetin and Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Extract against Dimethoate Potentiated Fluoride-Induced Nephrotoxicity in Rats 💧
  • Alarming Prevalence of Sulfaquinoxaline Residue in Poultry Meat Sold in Jammu Region of UT of J&K 🐔
  • Testicular Toxicity following Subacute Exposure of Arsenic and Mancozeb Alone and in Combination: Ameliorative Efficacy of Quercetin and Catechin ⚖️
  • Locust protein hydrolysates have the potential to enhance the storage stability of cheese 🧀

Conclusion

Prof. (Dr.) Pawan Kumar Verma is an exemplary candidate for the Outstanding Scientist Award. His robust publication record, impactful research, leadership in academia, and numerous accolades reflect his dedication and contributions to the field of veterinary pharmacology and toxicology. By addressing areas for improvement, he can further enhance his influence and effectiveness as a scientist. Recognizing his achievements through this award would not only honor his contributions but also inspire continued excellence in veterinary science.