Cesare Orlandi | GPCR signaling pathways | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cesare Orlandi | GPCR signaling pathways | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cesare Orlandi, University of Rochester, United States

Dr. Cesare Orlandi is an accomplished Associate Professor of Pharmacology and Physiology at the University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry. With a multidisciplinary background in pharmaceutical biotechnology and molecular genetics, Dr. Orlandi has made significant contributions to GPCR (G protein-coupled receptor) biology, orphan receptor deorphanization, and signal transduction. His work bridges basic molecular pharmacology with translational applications in neuroscience and immunology. He has authored numerous high-impact publications in leading journals like Science, Nature Communications, and Journal of Medicinal Chemistry. His collaborative research with global institutions reflects a strong network and broad scientific reach. Recognized for his excellence in science communication, Dr. Orlandi has received multiple “Best Talk” awards at competitive research symposia. His lab continues to innovate at the frontier of receptor biology, influencing therapeutic strategies in neurobiology and inflammation.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

Orcid

Strengths for the Award:

  1. High-Impact Publications in Prestigious Journals
    Dr. Orlandi has published in top-tier, peer-reviewed journals, including Science, Nature Communications, PNAS, Journal of Physiology, and Molecular Pharmacology. This reflects the scientific rigor, innovation, and broad relevance of his work.

  2. Research Innovation in GPCR Biology
    His research into orphan G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) has led to the development of new experimental assays (e.g., GzESTY) and has provided significant insights into immune and neurological signaling mechanisms. These contributions are not only fundamental but also highly translational, aligning with drug discovery and therapeutic interventions.

  3. Strong Interdisciplinary and Collaborative Profile
    Dr. Orlandi’s collaborations with diverse teams across pharmacology, structural biology, and immunology underscore his interdisciplinary approach. His name appears alongside experts from multiple institutions, showing leadership in team science.

  4. Recognition for Scientific Communication
    His awards for Best Talk at Scripps Research Fest (2016, 2018) and selection for a Gordon Research Seminar oral presentation affirm his strength in communicating complex science effectively—an essential trait for broader impact.

  5. Mentorship and Leadership
    As an Associate Professor at the University of Rochester, Dr. Orlandi plays an active role in training the next generation of biomedical researchers, contributing to capacity building in academia.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Limited Mention of Funding Sources or Grant Leadership
    While his publication record is excellent, there’s no clear listing of major research grants or principal investigator (PI) roles, which are critical markers for research independence and sustainability.

  2. More Visible Clinical or Translational Output
    While his work is biologically impactful, the clinical translation or patenting aspect could be made more visible to demonstrate tangible applications beyond academic impact.

  3. Leadership in International Consortia or Editorial Boards
    Additional involvement in editorial boards, scientific committees, or research policy advisory roles would further bolster his profile as a leader in his field.

Education:

Dr. Orlandi earned his Ph.D. in Molecular Genetics from the University of Brescia, Italy (2005–2009), where he conducted foundational research into genetic signaling mechanisms. Prior to that, he completed a Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology at the University of Milan (1998–2004), equipping him with a robust interdisciplinary foundation in drug development, pharmacodynamics, and molecular biology. His academic path reflects a strong European biomedical training system, with emphasis on translational pharmacology and therapeutic innovation. The combination of pharmaceutical science and genetic research uniquely positions Dr. Orlandi to explore receptor biology with a precision medicine lens. His training was further strengthened by postdoctoral research in elite institutions, where he deepened his specialization in orphan GPCR signaling. This education forms the backbone of his research productivity and ability to mentor the next generation of molecular pharmacologists.

Experience:

Dr. Cesare Orlandi currently serves as Associate Professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Physiology at the University of Rochester. He has established himself as a leading voice in the GPCR research community, especially in understanding orphan receptors and their roles in neuronal and immune systems. Prior to this, he held postdoctoral and research positions where he collaborated with global leaders in receptor signaling and neurobiology. His lab combines pharmacological, molecular, and computational approaches to tackle fundamental questions about receptor activity, bias, and downstream signaling. With over a decade of hands-on research experience and extensive publication output, Dr. Orlandi has trained graduate students and postdocs who have progressed into independent academic and industry positions. His multidisciplinary experience spans receptor pharmacology, molecular neuroscience, and drug discovery, making him a cornerstone in collaborative biomedical research projects at the University of Rochester and beyond.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Orlandi’s scientific excellence has been recognized with several prestigious honors. Notably, he received the Best Talk Award at the Scripps Research Fest in both 2016 and 2018, underscoring his ability to clearly and impactfully communicate complex scientific findings. In 2016, his work was also selected for an oral presentation at the highly competitive Gordon Research Seminar on Phosphorylation and G-Protein Mediated Signaling, affirming the novelty and relevance of his contributions to the receptor signaling field. These awards highlight not only the depth of his scientific insights but also his excellence in mentorship, collaboration, and thought leadership. They place him among a select group of researchers with both technical and communicative brilliance, a critical trait for academic and translational science leadership. These recognitions, combined with high-impact publications, position Dr. Orlandi as a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Research Focus:

Dr. Orlandi’s research revolves around orphan G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs)—a class of proteins that are vital drug targets but remain largely unexplored. His lab develops novel assays (like GzESTY) for GPCR deorphanization, helping decode their physiological roles in the brain and immune system. He also explores signaling bias, investigating how different ligands induce distinct signaling cascades through the same receptor. His recent work uncovered pivotal roles for orphan GPCRs in macrophage immune function and neuronal communication, highlighting their therapeutic potential. Collaborating across pharmacology, neuroscience, and structural biology, he integrates in vitro, in vivo, and computational methods. His lab has also contributed to understanding how GPCRs interact with psychoactive cannabinoids and prostaglandins, which has implications for pain, inflammation, and psychiatric disorders. His research is highly translational, aiming to inform next-generation drug discovery in neuropharmacology and immunomodulation.

Publications Top Notes: 

  1. 🧬 Distinct Interactions of Cannabinol and Its Cytochrome P450-Generated Metabolites with Receptors and Sensory Neurons – Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 2025

  2. 🧪 Pancreatic Exocrine Signaling and Function Require Gαq Activation – The Journal of Physiology, 2025

  3. 🧫 GzESTY: An Optimized Cell-Based Assay for GPCR Deorphanization – Nature Communications, 2025

  4. 🧉 Orphan GPCR GPRC5B Controls Macrophage Function via Prostaglandin E2 Signaling – Nature Communications, 2025

  5. 🧠 Gα Protein Signaling Bias at the 5-HT1A Receptor – Molecular Pharmacology, 2023

  6. 🧠 Spatial Profile of Orphan GPCR GPRC5B Expression in Mouse Brain – Frontiers in Neuroscience, 2022

  7. 🔍 In Vitro Profiling of Orphan GPCR Constitutive Activity – British Journal of Pharmacology, 2021

  8. 🧩 Cell-Adhesion Molecules Regulate Cone Photoreceptor Synaptic Wiring – PNAS, 2020

  9. 🎮 NF1-cAMP Signaling Links Striatal Neurons to Reward and Motor Control – PLOS Biology, 2019

  10. 🚫 Genetic Behavioral Screen Identifies an Orphan Anti-Opioid System – Science, 2019

Conclusion:

Dr. Cesare Orlandi stands out as an exceptional researcher whose work has advanced the frontiers of molecular pharmacology, especially in the complex field of orphan GPCRs. His innovative methodologies, strong publication track record, and interdisciplinary collaborations make a compelling case for recognition through the Best Researcher Award. While there is room to further highlight his grant leadership and translational reach, his scientific output and leadership are already at a level that merits this award.

Eunmiri Roh | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Prof. Eunmiri Roh | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Eunmiri Roh, Department of Cosmetic Science, Kwangju Women’s University, South Korea

Dr. Eunmiri Roh is an accomplished biomedical scientist and Assistant Professor in the Department of Cosmetic Science at Kwangju Women’s University, Republic of Korea. With a strong foundation in microbiology and pharmaceutical sciences, Dr. Roh has established herself in the field of skin cancer biology and cosmetic science. Her research explores cellular and molecular pathways in skin carcinogenesis, melanogenesis, photoaging, and chemoprevention, emphasizing UV-induced damage and pigmentation disorders. She has published extensively in top-tier international journals and has collaborated with leading institutions, including the University of Minnesota. Dr. Roh’s dedication to integrating science with practical beauty and health solutions positions her as a leading figure in her field. Her exceptional contributions have earned her multiple research honors, and she continues to innovate at the intersection of pharmaceutical science and cosmetology.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. High-Impact Research Portfolio
    Dr. Roh has produced a consistent stream of peer-reviewed publications in high-impact international journals, such as Biochemical Pharmacology, Cancer Research, Journal of Investigative Dermatology, and Cells, reflecting her solid global research presence.

  2. Focused and Societally Relevant Research
    Her primary focus—UV-induced skin carcinogenesis, pigmentation disorders, and chemoprevention—addresses pressing issues in dermatology and cosmetic health, aligning with public health interests and the cosmetic industry’s innovation goals.

  3. Interdisciplinary Expertise
    Dr. Roh’s training in biochemistry, pharmacy, and microbiology supports a multidisciplinary research approach, which is evident in her collaboration with dermatologists, chemists, and pharmacologists.

  4. Award-Winning Excellence
    She has earned multiple national and international research awards, including from the Korean Society of Microbiology and Biotechnology, the Korean Society of Cancer Prevention, and The Hormel Institute (USA), validating her scientific merit.

  5. Strong International Collaboration
    Collaboration with globally recognized institutions like the University of Minnesota and The Hormel Institute reflects the international relevance and applicability of her research.

  6. Translational Research Impact
    Dr. Roh’s research bridges basic science and application—discovering bioactives for cosmetics and drug delivery systems, highlighting practical impact in dermatology and consumer health.

⚙️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Leadership in Independent Grants
    While publication output is impressive, securing independent competitive research funding (e.g., national research grants, PI-led international projects) would further reinforce her research leadership.

  2. Mentorship and Academic Development
    Enhanced documentation of her mentorship role—particularly training graduate students, Ph.D. candidates, or postdoctoral researchers—would highlight her academic influence beyond publications.

  3. Commercial Translation or Patents
    Filing patents or commercializing products/formulations related to her discoveries (e.g., natural anti-pigmentation agents or UV protectants) could amplify her impact and innovation metrics.

  4. Greater Engagement in Scientific Leadership
    Increased visibility in scientific committees, editorial boards, or as a conference keynote speaker would establish her as a thought leader in her field.

📘 Education:

Dr. Roh’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from the College of Natural Sciences at Chungbuk National University (2007). Motivated to delve deeper into biomedical research, she pursued her Master’s degree in Life Pharmacy (2009), followed by a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Function with a focus on biochemistry (2012) at the College of Pharmacy in the same university. Her graduate and doctoral training provided her with a robust understanding of molecular biology, pharmacology, and biochemical mechanisms, forming the backbone of her current work in dermatological science and cosmetic pharmacology. The interdisciplinary nature of her studies laid the groundwork for her specialization in skin biology, UV-induced skin damage, and pigmentation-related drug discovery. Her academic foundation is both broad and deep, equipping her with the necessary tools to explore innovative solutions for skin health through cosmetic science.

🧪 Experience:

Dr. Eunmiri Roh currently serves as an Assistant Professor at the Department of Cosmetic Science, Kwangju Women’s University, where she leads research on cosmetic pharmacology, focusing on skin cancer prevention and pigmentation disorders. Before joining academia, she gained valuable research experience at globally recognized institutions such as The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota, where she was awarded for outstanding scientific contributions. She has collaborated in multidisciplinary teams working on skin photoaging, UV protection, anti-inflammatory pathways, and novel cosmetic drug formulations. Her work spans in vitro and in vivo studies, biochemical analysis, and formulation science. Dr. Roh also contributes to educational excellence, guiding undergraduate and graduate students in research methodologies and scientific writing. Her blend of practical, clinical, and research experience strengthens her impact in both the cosmetic and biomedical sectors. She is known for her rigorous scientific approach and her drive to translate laboratory findings into real-world applications.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Roh has received numerous accolades for her pioneering research in molecular pharmacology and cosmetic science. She was honored with the Outstanding Poster Presentation Award from the Korean Society of Microbiology and Biotechnology in June 2022, recognizing her innovative insights into skin-related biochemical mechanisms. Similarly, she earned the Outstanding Poster Presentation Award from the Korean Society of Cancer Prevention in November 2021 for her work on chemopreventive agents. Earlier, in 2019, she received the Summer Research Retreat Award (2nd place) from The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota—an acknowledgment of her collaborative contributions to cancer biology. These awards underscore her reputation for research excellence, innovation, and dedication to advancing the fields of dermatology and cosmetology. Her consistent recognition at both national and international levels reflects her commitment to impactful science and her growing influence in molecular dermatology and cosmetic formulation research.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Roh’s research primarily focuses on molecular and cellular targets involved in carcinogenesis, skin aging, and pigmentation. Her studies aim to understand the biochemical pathways influenced by solar UV radiation, and their role in inducing skin cancer and photoaging. She also explores mechanisms of melanogenesis, contributing to the discovery of anti-hyperpigmentation agents. A distinctive element of her work is the translation of pharmacological findings into cosmetic applications, bridging the gap between biochemistry and skincare innovation. Her recent work includes green tea polyphenols, sesame glycoproteins, and natural bioactives for UV protection. She also investigates novel formulations for transdermal drug delivery and anti-inflammatory responses in skin cells. Her holistic approach encompasses in vitro, in vivo, and 3D skin models, emphasizing both efficacy and safety. Her contributions are instrumental in developing scientifically validated cosmetics and preventive strategies against UV-induced damage and pigment disorders.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧴 Evaluation and analysis of major competency achievement in beauty and cosmetics students – J Korean Soc Cosmetol (2024)

  2. 🌿 Protective Effects of Sesame Glycoproteins on UV-Induced Skin Aging – Pharmaceuticals (2024)

  3. ☀️ Orobol suppresses development of cutaneous SCC – Biochem Pharmacol (2023)

  4. 💊 Topical Rocuronium Bromide Formulation for Skin Delivery – Int J Mol Sci (2023)

  5. 🧪 Higenamine reduces fine-dust-induced MMP-1 in keratinocytes – Plants (2023)

  6. 🔥 Targeting IKKβ in acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity – Pharmaceutics (2023)

  7. 🌸 Lotusine inhibits UV-induced MMP-1 – Plants (2022)

  8. 🔍 Structural basis of multifunctional roles of Ints3 C-terminal domain – J Biol Chem (2021)

  9. 🧬 GSK3β and WT1 in tumor progression – Cancer Res (2021)

  10. 🌞 Effectiveness of FDA-approved sunscreens against UV damage – Cells (2020)

🔚 Conclusion:

Dr. Eunmiri Roh is a highly qualified and outstanding researcher whose scientific contributions to dermatological pharmacology, cosmetic biochemistry, and skin health are both innovative and impactful. Her robust publication record, research awards, and international collaborations indicate that she is well-positioned to receive recognition such as the Best Researcher Award. With minor enhancements in grant leadership, mentorship roles, and translational outcomes, her academic profile could rise even further.