Yuxiang Wang | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yuxiang Wang | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yuxiang Wang, Fudan University, China

Dr. Yuxiang Wang is a Principal Investigator and Ph.D. Supervisor at Fudan University, with an extensive background in molecular biology, oncology, and translational medicine. He earned his Ph.D. in Developmental and Molecular Biology from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, where he worked under the mentorship of Dr. Jeffrey W. Pollard. Following this, he completed a prestigious research fellowship at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Wang has built a strong academic and clinical research portfolio, focusing on gliomas and muscular dystrophy. His work utilizes state-of-the-art preclinical models and CRISPR screening technologies to identify novel therapeutic strategies. Dr. Wang is a recipient of numerous honors, including the MSK Society Scholar Award and Shanghai Leading Overseas Talent recognition. He actively collaborates with clinicians to translate lab discoveries into patient therapies, and his prolific publication record reflects deep scientific rigor and innovation.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Strong Research Track Record
    Dr. Wang has published in top-tier journals such as Nature Communications, Science Advances, Cancer Research, and PNAS. His publication record demonstrates consistency, depth, and high impact across multiple domains including glioma biology and gene therapy.

  2. Dual Research Focus
    He leads research in two distinct yet critical biomedical areas—malignant gliomas and muscular dystrophy. This breadth shows versatility and the ability to manage complex translational programs.

  3. Innovative Techniques
    Dr. Wang effectively applies CRISPR-based genetic screening, preclinical mouse models, and patient-derived cell lines—cutting-edge tools that reflect a forward-thinking, high-tech research approach.

  4. International Research Background
    His training and professional experience in both the U.S. (at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center) and China make him a bridge between Western and Eastern biomedical research ecosystems.

  5. Leadership and Mentorship
    Serving as both Principal Investigator and Ph.D. Supervisor, and having been Vice Director at a major clinical research center, Dr. Wang shows strong leadership and a commitment to research training.

  6. Recognitions and Awards
    Prestigious honors such as the Shanghai Leading Overseas Talent, Shanghai Pujiang Talent, and MSK Society Scholar Award (twice) underline peer recognition and scientific excellence.

🛠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Clinical Translation and Implementation
    While his preclinical work is strong, more details or evidence on how these findings have progressed toward clinical trials or therapeutic products could further strengthen his translational profile.

  2. Interdisciplinary Collaborations
    Expanding collaborations across fields like bioengineering, immunotherapy, or computational biology may add further value and broaden research impact.

  3. Visibility and Outreach
    Increasing visibility through keynote lectures, patents, or public datasets could enhance his reputation globally and support broader dissemination of his work.

  4. Grants and Funding Portfolio
    While not detailed in the CV, highlighting national/international grant leadership or participation would provide insight into his ability to secure and manage competitive research funding.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Yuxiang Wang holds a distinguished academic background across leading institutions. He completed his Ph.D. in Developmental and Molecular Biology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine (2008–2014), under Dr. Jeffrey W. Pollard, focusing on hormone signaling and uterine biology. Before that, he earned a Master of Sciences from Fudan University (2004–2007), mentored by Dr. Bo Chen, where he explored hormone interactions in reproductive biology. He began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Sciences from the Ocean University of China (2000–2004), majoring in life sciences. This robust education laid the foundation for his later success in cancer biology and translational research. Throughout his academic path, Dr. Wang has demonstrated a consistent focus on the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying human diseases, especially cancer and genetic disorders. His education, blending rigorous laboratory work and clinical relevance, has uniquely positioned him for cutting-edge biomedical research.

💼 Experience:

Dr. Wang currently serves as Principal Investigator and Ph.D. Supervisor at Fudan University’s School of Basic Medical Sciences (2020–present), where he leads research on gliomas and muscular dystrophy. From 2021 to 2023, he also held the position of Vice Director of the Research Department at the Clinical Research Center of the Affiliated Children’s Hospital of Fudan University, coordinating clinical and translational projects. Prior to his return to China, Dr. Wang worked as a Research Fellow at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (2015–2020), collaborating with Dr. Timothy Chan and Dr. Jason Huse on the molecular basis of brain tumors and treatment resistance. His career bridges fundamental science and clinical applications, with a focus on leveraging genetic models and CRISPR technologies to uncover therapeutic targets. Dr. Wang’s international experience and leadership in high-impact research programs underscore his contributions to biomedical innovation and mentorship.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Yuxiang Wang’s outstanding scientific contributions have been recognized through several prestigious awards. He was named a Shanghai Leading Overseas Talent (2020) and a Shanghai Pujiang Talent (2020), highlighting his excellence in international scientific exchange and leadership. While at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, he was twice awarded the MSK Society Scholar Award (2018, 2019), which recognizes exceptional postdoctoral researchers demonstrating strong potential for independent academic careers. These accolades underscore Dr. Wang’s commitment to impactful research, innovation in therapeutic development, and mentorship of young scientists. His ability to translate fundamental research into preclinical and potentially clinical solutions sets him apart as a research leader. These honors reflect peer recognition of both the depth and translational potential of his work in oncology and genetic diseases.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Wang’s research centers on two critical areas: malignant gliomas and muscular dystrophy. In glioma studies, his team investigates the cooperative role of IDH and ATRX mutations using CRISPR-based genetic screening in mouse models to identify synthetic lethal targets—genes whose inhibition can selectively kill tumor cells with specific mutations. This strategy opens doors to novel, mutation-specific therapies with minimal harm to healthy cells. In muscular dystrophy, Dr. Wang focuses on rare genetic mutations affecting glycosylation pathways, utilizing patient-derived cells and animal models to evaluate gene therapy and genome editing solutions. His work seeks not only to understand disease mechanisms but also to bridge the lab-to-clinic gap. A long-term objective is to offer personalized therapies for patients with genetically defined diseases. The integration of molecular biology, translational research, and therapeutic innovation defines his approach.

📚 Publication Top Notes: 

  1. 🧬 Genetically Engineered Mouse Models Unveil Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies for GMPPB-Associated Dystroglycanopathy – Nature Communications (under revision)

  2. 🧠 PRICKLE4 Underlies IDH mutant Tumor Resistance against PARP Inhibition – Advanced Science (under revision)

  3. 🧫 Comprehensively characterizing eRNA in immune cells to screen combinational strategies for anti-cancer immunotherapy – Cancer Research (2025)

  4. 🔬 Targeting therapeutic vulnerabilities with PARP inhibition and radiation in IDH-mutant gliomas and cholangiocarcinomas – Science Advances

  5. 🧬 G-quadruplex DNA drives genomic instability and represents a targetable molecular abnormality in ATRX-deficient malignant glioma – Nature Communications

  6. 🧪 Mutant-IDH1-dependent chromatin state reprogramming, reversibility, and persistence – Nature Genetics

  7. 🧠 Atrx inactivation drives disease-defining phenotypes in glioma cells of origin through global epigenomic remodeling – Nature Communications

  8. 🧬 Activation of protein synthesis in mouse uterine epithelial cells by estradiol-17β is mediated by a PKC–ERK1/2–mTOR signaling pathway – PNAS

  9. 🔬 GSK-3β mediates in the progesterone inhibition of estrogen-induced cyclin D2 nuclear localization and cell proliferation in cyclin D1−/− mouse uterine epithelium – FEBS Letters

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Yuxiang Wang is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. He demonstrates:

  • A clear and sustained record of scientific excellence,

  • Deep expertise in cancer biology and rare disease genetics,

  • Use of innovative methodologies, and

  • Leadership in both academic and clinical research environments.

His contributions to understanding the molecular basis of gliomas and developing targeted therapies for muscular dystrophy have significant implications for personalized medicine. With continued development in clinical translation and interdisciplinary reach, he stands out as a leader of the next generation of biomedical scientists.

Rong Zhong | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Rong Zhong | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Rong Zhong, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China

Professor Rong Zhong is an esteemed academic in the field of molecular and cancer epidemiology at Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, China. With a PhD in Epidemiology and Biostatistics and postdoctoral training from Harvard Medical School, she has built a distinguished career in investigating genetic and environmental interactions in cancer development. Over the years, she has led 51 research projects, authored 169 peer-reviewed articles, and earned over 3,600 citations. Dr. Zhong’s collaborative work extends across national and international institutions, including Huazhong Agricultural University and the General Hospital of Central Theater Command. Recognized with the Natural Science Award of Hubei Province, she is also actively involved in several national scientific committees. Her commitment to advancing cancer prevention through precision medicine and early detection strategies reflects both her scientific acumen and societal impact, making her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Output

    • 169 SCI/Scopus-indexed publications, many in high-impact journals like Gastroenterology, Nature Reviews Clinical Oncology, and Cancer Discovery.

    • Strong citation record with 3,697 citations on Web of Science, reflecting broad scientific influence.

  2. Innovative and Impactful Research

    • Focus on molecular and cancer epidemiology, particularly gene-environment interactions in gastrointestinal cancers, addressing a critical public health challenge.

    • Groundbreaking research on environmental risk factors (e.g., bisphenol A, tobacco smoke) and genetic susceptibility in cancer risk.

  3. Grants and Funding Leadership

    • Principal investigator of major national research projects, including National Natural Science Foundation of China grants and the Young Top-notch Talent Cultivation Program of Hubei Province.

  4. Recognition and Service

    • Recipient of the Natural Science Award of Hubei Province.

    • Serves on editorial boards of reputable journals such as Ebiomedicine and American Journal of Gastroenterology.

    • Active member in national scientific committees related to cancer prevention and epidemiology.

  5. Collaboration and Mentorship

    • Strong institutional and cross-disciplinary collaborations, including with Huazhong Agricultural University and military medical research institutions.

    • A demonstrated leader in mentoring young researchers in public health and biomedical science.

⚙️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Industry Engagement & Technology Transfer

    • Although she holds 2 patents, there is limited mention of industry consultancy or commercialization, which could strengthen real-world impact.

  2. International Policy Influence

    • Expanding her involvement in international advisory boards or global health policy initiatives could further elevate her research visibility and societal contribution.

  3. Science Communication & Public Engagement

    • Enhanced participation in public education, community outreach, or policy translation could help bridge science and society, especially in preventive oncology.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Rong Zhong earned her PhD in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from the prestigious Huazhong University of Science and Technology, where she built the foundation for her future research excellence. To further expand her academic perspective, she completed postdoctoral training at Harvard Medical School, USA—an experience that enriched her global outlook and enhanced her methodological rigor in public health research. Throughout her academic journey, Dr. Zhong has demonstrated a passion for understanding complex interactions between genes and environmental exposures, particularly in relation to cancer epidemiology. Her education, characterized by a blend of rigorous Chinese academic training and Western research exposure, has laid a strong interdisciplinary base. This robust academic background has equipped her with a unique skill set to lead impactful research in molecular epidemiology and precision prevention of gastrointestinal cancers.

💼 Experience:

Dr. Rong Zhong currently serves as a Professor at the School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology. With extensive experience in cancer epidemiology, she has successfully led national and provincial research initiatives including projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Young Top-notch Talent Cultivation Program of Hubei Province. Over the years, she has been instrumental in mentoring young scientists, shaping national health policies, and advancing cancer prevention strategies in China. She also serves on editorial boards of high-impact journals such as Ebiomedicine and American Journal of Gastroenterology. Her experience bridges research, academic leadership, and international collaboration, reflecting her multidimensional contribution to science and public health. Her advisory roles in national committees focused on cancer prevention and epidemiology further underscore her influence and thought leadership in the field.

🔬 Research Focus:

Professor Zhong’s primary research focus lies in molecular and cancer epidemiology, with an emphasis on gastrointestinal cancers. Her work aims to elucidate the gene-environment interactions that contribute to cancer risk, leveraging large-scale cohort and case-control studies. By integrating genomic data with environmental exposures (e.g., diet, pollutants, endocrine-disrupting chemicals), she develops predictive models that enable early screening and personalized prevention strategies for high-risk populations. Her recent studies investigate interactions between genetic polymorphisms and substances like bisphenol A, tobacco smoke, and gut microbiota, especially in relation to colorectal and breast cancer. These contributions bridge the gap between basic science and clinical translation, offering a pathway toward precision public health. Her research not only advances scientific knowledge but also holds tangible implications for national cancer screening guidelines and individualized preventive healthcare strategies.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 📘 Western-Style Diet, pks Island-Carrying Escherichia coli, and Colorectal Cancer: Analyses From Two Large Prospective Cohort Studies – Gastroenterology

  2. 🚬 In Utero and Childhood/Adolescence Exposure to Tobacco Smoke, Genetic Risk and Lung Cancer Incidence and Mortality in Adulthood – AJRCCM

  3. 🧬 FOXA1 of regulatory variant associated with risk of breast cancer through allele-specific enhancer in the Chinese population – Breast Cancer

  4. 🧪 Genome-wide gene-bisphenol A, F and triclosan interaction analyses on urinary oxidative stress markers – Science of The Total Environment

  5. 🧫 Urinary bisphenol A and its interaction with CYP17A1 rs743572 are associated with breast cancer risk – Chemosphere

  6. 🧠 Animal-eRNAdb: a comprehensive animal enhancer RNA database – Nucleic Acids Research

  7. 🔬 Hepatocellular carcinoma risk variant modulates lncRNA HLA-DQB1-AS1 expression via a long-range enhancer–promoter interaction – Carcinogenesis

  8. 🧍‍♀️ Bisphenol A exposure, interaction with genetic variants and colorectal cancer via mediating oxidative stress biomarkers – Environmental Pollution

  9. 🧾 Discovery and Features of an Alkylating Signature in Colorectal Cancer – Cancer Discovery

  10. 🚨 Rising incidence of early-onset colorectal cancer — a call to action – Nature Reviews Clinical Oncology

📌 Conclusion:

Professor Rong Zhong is an outstanding and highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her prolific output, innovative approaches to cancer risk assessment, and leadership in national scientific research firmly position her among the top-tier researchers in her field. Her contributions have laid the groundwork for precision public health, with real potential to transform early cancer detection and prevention strategies in China and globally.

Prbhu Narayan Meena | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Paper Award

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Dr. Prbhu Narayan Meena | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Paper Award

Dr. Prbhu Narayan Meena , ICAR-NRIIPM, New delhi , India

Dr. P. N. Meena, M.Sc. (Ag), Ph.D., is a renowned Scientist in the field of Plant Pathology. With a career that began in 2013 at ICAR-CRIJAF, Kolkata, Dr. Meena played a crucial role in developing two varieties of kenaf resistant to foot and stem rot disease. Over the years, Dr. Meena has made significant contributions to plant pathology research, publishing 7 international and 27 national research papers, 12 abstracts, 2 books/compendiums, and numerous other scientific works. She has delivered over 13 invited lectures, organized several farmer field schools, and participated in 22 trainings and conferences. Her research has earned her awards, including the Best Plant Pathologist Award in 2019 and 2024. Dr. Meena’s work continues to benefit horticulture, fibre, and pulse crops through innovative disease management solutions.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Outstanding Contributions to Plant Pathology: Dr. P. N. Meena has made significant contributions to plant pathology research, particularly in the development of disease-resistant crops and bio-control strategies. Her work on kenaf varieties resistant to foot and stem rot disease, and her extensive publications on molecular detection and disease management strategies, are impressive achievements that underscore her excellence in the field.

  2. Comprehensive Research Focus: Dr. Meena has worked across multiple aspects of plant disease management, including molecular diagnostics, eco-friendly management practices, and bio-control agents like Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. This broad research focus ensures her work impacts horticulture, fibre crops, and pulses.

  3. Recognition & Awards: She has received prestigious awards such as the Best Plant Pathologist Award in 2019 and 2024, highlighting her esteemed position in the research community.

  4. Extensive Publication Record: With over 7 international papers, 27 national papers, 2 books, 13 book chapters, and numerous abstracts and technical bulletins, Dr. Meena has demonstrated a prolific research output. Her works are valuable for both academia and practical applications in agriculture.

  5. Leadership & Community Engagement: Dr. Meena has played a leadership role in organizing numerous farmer training programs, field schools, and workshops. This active engagement with the farming community, along with her work in disseminating scientific knowledge, strengthens her candidacy for the award.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Collaborative Research in Emerging Fields: While Dr. Meena has a strong background in traditional crop disease management, there is potential to expand her research into emerging fields like genomic data integration and precision agriculture. Collaborations with experts in genomics or climate change could open new avenues for disease resistance and crop resilience.

  2. Expansion in Global Research Networks: While her contributions are highly recognized nationally and regionally, further involvement in international research collaborations, especially with top global agricultural institutions, could elevate the global impact of her research.

  3. Publication of Research in High-Impact Journals: Though Dr. Meena’s publication record is commendable, focusing more on high-impact international journals could further boost the visibility of her work on a global scale, ensuring that her research reaches a wider, more diverse audience.

Education:

Dr. P. N. Meena pursued her Master’s in Science (Agriculture) with a specialization in Plant Pathology and later completed her Ph.D. in the same field. Her academic journey has been marked by an unwavering commitment to understanding plant diseases and finding sustainable solutions. Her advanced education laid the foundation for her impactful research at ICAR-CRIJAF, where she actively contributed to various projects focused on disease resistance in crops. Throughout her educational career, Dr. Meena has exhibited excellence, being well-versed in molecular detection and plant disease management. Her knowledge has allowed her to develop various technologies in disease management strategies, particularly for horticultural and fibre crops. She has remained engaged with both national and international research communities, collaborating extensively to share insights and expertise.

Experience:

Dr. P. N. Meena began her career as a Scientist (Plant Pathology) at ICAR-CRIJAF, Kolkata, in 2013, where she made notable contributions to the development of kenaf varieties resistant to major diseases. Her extensive experience includes publishing 7 international and 27 national research papers, authoring 2 books, and developing 21 technologies for disease management. Dr. Meena has served as a Co-PI in 2 externally funded projects, PI in 2 institute projects, and Co-PI in 14 institute projects. She has delivered 14 oral/poster presentations and 13 invited lectures in farmer training programs. Her leadership is reflected in organizing 18 farmer field schools (FFS) and coordinating 5 FLDs. Dr. Meena has received multiple awards for her contribution to plant pathology, including the Best Plant Pathologist Award in 2019 and 2024. Her active involvement in conferences, workshops, and research continues to influence the agricultural community.

Research Focus:

Dr. P. N. Meena’s research focus primarily revolves around plant diseases, particularly in horticultural, fibre, and pulse crops. Her groundbreaking work includes developing molecular detection technologies for various plant pathogens and strategies for managing diseases like foot and stem rot in crops. A significant part of her research is centered on eco-friendly disease management, using bioagents such as Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. Additionally, she is passionate about exploring host plant resistance, disease diagnostics, and sustainable agricultural practices. Dr. Meena’s work extends to protecting crops like jute and groundnut from harmful pathogens, improving yield, and promoting environmental sustainability. With 21 technologies developed in disease management and ongoing research in biocontrol, her work contributes substantially to integrated pest management (IPM). Her research also involves extensive work in genetic diversity and the development of resistant crop varieties.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Biocontrol activity of Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens against Meloidogyne incognita, Fusarium oxysporum, and Rhizoctonia solani 🌱
  2. Bio-efficacy of phytoextracts and oil cakes on Macrophomina phaseolina causing stem rot disease of jute, Corchorus spp. 🌿
  3. Host plant resistance in cultivated jute and its wild relatives towards jute hairy caterpillar Spilosoma obliqua (Lepidoptera: Arctiidae) 🦋
  4. Eco-friendly management of major diseases in jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) 🌾
  5. Evaluation of stem rot disease in jute (Corchorus olitorius) germplasm caused by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid 🍂
  6. Problems and prospects of pest management in jute and allied fibre crops 🌱
  7. Simultaneous detection of potato viruses A and M using CP gene-specific primers in an optimized duplex RT-PCR 🥔
  8. Detection of Mesta yellow vein mosaic virus (MeYVMV) in field samples by a loop-mediated isothermal amplification reaction 🌾
  9. In vitro screening of white Jute (Corchorus capsularis L) against salinity stress 💧
  10. Evaluation of efficacy of different bioagents and fungicides against Rhizoctonia solani (Kuhn) ⚗️

Conclusion:

Dr. P. N. Meena is an exceptional researcher with a proven track record of developing innovative solutions for plant disease management, particularly in the horticultural and fibre crop sectors. Her work is characterized by both depth and breadth, making a significant impact on the agricultural community. The strengths of her research, leadership, and recognition make her a strong contender for the Research for Best Paper Award. However, future directions could involve expanding collaborations into cutting-edge technologies and increasing visibility through international journals. Overall, Dr. Meena’s work stands out for its scientific rigor, practical applications, and contribution to sustainable agriculture.