Mohamed Dammak | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Academic Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Mohamed Dammak | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Academic Researcher Award

Faculty of Sciences of Sfax | Tunisia

Professor Mohamed Dammak is a distinguished researcher in the field of chemistry, recognized for his significant contributions to materials science, solid-state chemistry, and nanomaterials. His research primarily focuses on the synthesis, structural characterization, and optical properties of functional materials, including luminescent phosphors, glass ceramics, and doped oxide systems. He has extensively investigated rare-earth-doped materials for photonic and optoelectronic applications, contributing valuable insights into energy transfer mechanisms and material stability under various conditions. Professor Dammak’s scholarly output includes numerous publications in high-impact journals indexed in SCI and Scopus, reflecting his consistent pursuit of scientific excellence. With over 1,100 citations and an h-index of 17, his work has had a measurable influence on contemporary research in materials chemistry. He has also participated in national and international research collaborations, enhancing cross-disciplinary approaches to the development of advanced materials with optical and structural functionalities. Through his academic leadership and commitment to innovation, Professor Dammak continues to advance the understanding and application of inorganic and functional materials, bridging the gap between fundamental research and technological development in the field of chemistry.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications:

Dammak, M.*, Abdelmoula, N., Cheikhrouhou-Koubaa, W., & Cheikhrouhou, A. (2021). Short-range magnetic behavior in manganites La₀.₉₃K₀.₀₇Mn₁₋ₓCuₓO₃ (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.09) above the Curie temperature. Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics, 54(32), 325002. https://doi.org/10.1088/1361-6463/ac015c

 

Rosa M Giraldez-Perez | Intracellular Transport Systems | Innovative Research Award

Prof. Dr. Rosa M Giraldez-Perez | Intracellular Transport Systems | Innovative Research Award

University or Cordoba | Spain

Rosa María Giráldez-Pérez is a researcher in the fields of nanotechnology, nanomedicine, physiology, and neuroscience whose scientific contributions focus on the design and application of nanomaterials for therapeutic purposes. Her work has addressed innovative strategies such as gold nanosystems functionalized with antibiotics or anticancer drugs, the development of nanocarriers for leukemia, prostate, liver, and lung cancer treatments, as well as nanoparticle-based approaches to prevent antibiotic resistance. She has also contributed to research in obesity therapy through nanosystems targeting metabolic regulation and in neuroscience through studies on oxidative stress and fragile X syndrome. Her research output includes 81 scientific documents, which have accumulated 911 citations and reflect an h-index of 13, demonstrating both productivity and impact in her field. A significant portion of her publications are in high-impact journals indexed in the Journal Citation Reports (JCR), and several list her as first or senior author, highlighting her leading role in collaborative projects. By integrating expertise from cellular biology, physiology, and nanoscience, her work advances translational biomedical research and offers potential therapeutic solutions for cancer, infectious diseases, metabolic disorders, and neurological conditions.

Profiles: Orcid | Scopus

Featured Publications:

Giráldez-Pérez, R. M., Grueso, E. M., Montero-Hidalgo, A. J., Muriana-Fernández, C., Kuliszewska, E., Luque, R. M., & Prado-Gotor, R. (2025). Daunomycin nanocarriers with high therapeutic payload for the treatment of childhood leukemia. Pharmaceutics, 17(9), 1236.

De Diego-Otero, Y., El Bekay, R., García-Guirado, F., Sánchez-Salido, L., & Giráldez-Pérez, R. M. (2024). Apocynin, a selective NADPH oxidase (Nox2) inhibitor, ameliorates behavioural and learning deficits in the fragile X syndrome mouse model. Biomedicines, 12(2887).

Lhamyani, S., Gentile, A. M., Mengual-Mesa, M., Grueso, E., Giráldez-Pérez, R. M., Fernandez-Garcia, J. C., … El Bekay, R. (2024). Au@16-pH-16/miR-21 mimic nanosystem: An efficient treatment for obesity through browning and thermogenesis induction. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, 171, 116104.

Giráldez-Pérez, R. M., Grueso-Molina, E. M., Carbonero-Martínez, A., Álvarezmárquez, J., Kuliszewska, E., Gordillo-Macías, M., & Prado-Gotor, R. (2023). Synergistic antibacterial effects of amoxicillin and gold nanoparticles: A therapeutic option to combat antibiotic resistance. Antibiotics, 12(8), 81275.

Giráldez-Pérez, R. M., Grueso, E., Montero-Hidalgo, A. J., Luque, R. M., Carnerero, J. M., Kuliszewska, E., & Prado-Gotor, R. (2022). Gold nanosystems covered with doxorubicin/DNA complexes: A therapeutic target for prostate and liver cancer. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(24), 15575.

Giráldez-Pérez, R. M., Grueso, E. M., Jiménez-Aguayo, R., Carbonero, A., González-Bravo, M., Kuliszewska, E., & Prado-Gotor, R. (2022). Use of nanoparticles to prevent resistance to antibiotics: Synthesis and characterization of gold nanosystems based on tetracycline. Pharmaceutics, 14(9), 1941.

Lhamyani, S., Gentile, A. M., Giráldez-Pérez, R. M., et al. (2021). miR-21 mimic blocks obesity in mice: A novel therapeutic option. Molecular Therapy – Nucleic Acids, 26, 401–416. h

Grueso-Molina, E. M., Giráldez-Pérez, R. M., Kuliszewska, E., Guerrero, J. A., & Prado-Gotor, R. (2021). Reversible cationic gemini surfactant-induced aggregation of anionic gold nanoparticles for sensing biomolecules. Colloids and Surfaces A: Physicochemical and Engineering Aspects, 610, 125893.

Gomes, A., Carnerero-Panduro, J. M., Jiménez-Ruiz, A., Grueso-Molina, E. M., Giráldez-Pérez, R. M., & Prado-Gotor, R. (2021). Lysozyme-AuNPs interactions: Determination of binding free energy. Nanomaterials, 11(8), 2139.

Giráldez-Pérez, R. M., Grueso-Molina, E. M., Domínguez-García, I., Pastor-Carrillo, N. M., Kuliszewska, E., & Prado-Gotor, R. (2021). Biocompatible DNA/5-fluorouracil gemini surfactant-functionalized gold nanoparticles as promising vectors in lung cancer therapy. Pharmaceutics, 13(3), 423.

Yuxin Peng | Cell Adhesion Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Yuxin Peng | Cell Adhesion Mechanisms | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Yuxin Peng | Zhejiang University | China

Dr. Yuxin Peng is a distinguished researcher and educator in the field of biomedical and exercise science engineering. Currently serving as a ZJU 100 Young Professor at Zhejiang University, China, he has made significant strides in developing flexible sensors, smart wearable systems, and human–machine interaction technologies. With a Ph.D. and postdoctoral training at the National University of Singapore, his research integrates cutting-edge materials science, biomechanics, and AI-driven health monitoring systems. His work has been consistently published in high-impact journals like Science Advances, Advanced Science, IEEE Transactions, and Soft Robotics, reflecting both depth and innovation. Dr. Peng’s contributions are not only academic but also practical, with several of his innovations applied in rehabilitation, sports science, and robotics. His dedication and cross-disciplinary expertise make him a strong candidate for recognition such as the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profiles: 

Orcid
Scopus

Education:

Dr. Yuxin Peng received his doctoral degree (Ph.D.) in an engineering-related discipline, laying a strong foundation in biomedical engineering, biomechanics, and sensor technologies. His early academic pursuits were rooted in multidisciplinary innovation, merging engineering principles with human physiology and robotics. To further deepen his scientific understanding, he pursued postdoctoral research at the prestigious National University of Singapore, focusing on biomedical systems and smart rehabilitation. During his academic training, Dr. Peng built expertise in wearable sensors, motion tracking systems, and soft robotics—technologies that play a crucial role in personalized healthcare and intelligent rehabilitation. His education trajectory demonstrates both depth and diversity, preparing him to address complex biomedical challenges with integrated, high-tech solutions. It also laid the groundwork for his future leadership roles and impactful research career at Zhejiang University, where he now mentors young researchers and leads innovation in health engineering.

Experience:

Dr. Yuxin Peng has built an impressive academic and research career spanning over a decade. He has been a ZJU 100 Young Professor at Zhejiang University, affiliated with the Institute of Exercise Science and Health Engineering. In this role, he leads interdisciplinary research projects in wearable technology, flexible sensors, and human motion analysis. Prior to this, he served as a Research Fellow at the Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, where he focused on intelligent health systems and rehabilitation technologies. His hands-on experience in global, high-tech research environments has allowed him to develop collaborations with experts in robotics, materials science, and medical engineering. He has supervised numerous projects and students, while continuously publishing in high-impact journals. His experience demonstrates a rare blend of academic rigor and real-world application, making him a leader in human-centered biomedical innovation and smart rehabilitation systems.

Research Focus:

Dr. Yuxin Peng’s research focuses on wearable systems, smart sensors, soft robotics, and biomedical signal processing for human motion monitoring and rehabilitation. His work addresses real-world problems such as gait analysis, joint motion detection, force sensing, and rehabilitation assistance. By integrating AI, flexible electronics, and biocompatible materials, he develops high-performance sensors and intelligent exosuits for applications in sports science, elderly care, and physical therapy. Notable innovations include graphene-based aerogels, hydrogel biosensors, and multi-feature neural networks for gesture recognition. His lab has also contributed to optical waveguide sensors, virtual reality rehabilitation, and MI-controlled exoskeletons. The overarching goal of his work is to enable non-invasive, real-time, and personalized health monitoring through smart technology. By pushing the boundaries of soft, adaptive, and human-interactive systems, Dr. Peng’s research is at the forefront of the next generation of intelligent biomedical engineering solutions.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Hydroplastic Foaming of Graphene Aerogels and AI Tactile SensorsScience Advances

  2. Underwater Instant Adhesive Hydrogel Interfaces for Robust BiosensingAdvanced Science

  3. Flexible Segmented Assemblable Fiber Optic Sensor for Multi-Joint MonitoringSoft Robotics (Accepted)

  4. Calibration-Free Optical Waveguide Bending Sensor for Soft RobotsSoft Science

  5. Distributed Plantar 3D Force Measurement SystemSensors and Actuators A

  6. Superelastic Graphene Nanofibrous Aerogels for Intelligent Sign LanguageSmall

  7. Omnidirectional Soft Bending Sensor for Joint MonitoringIEEE TIE

  8. Shank-RIO: Ranging-Inertial Odometry for Gait and PositioningIEEE TIM

  9. Exosuit with Bidirectional Hand Support via Gesture RecognitionIEEE TNSRE

  10.  Advances in Flexible Bending Sensors and ApplicationsIJ Smart & Nano Materials

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Dr. Yuxin Peng exhibits all the qualities of a top-tier, award-worthy researcher. His work is characterized by scientific rigor, high-impact publication, and a vision for solving real-world healthcare challenges using cutting-edge sensor and robotics technologies. As a respected academic at Zhejiang University with a solid international research background, Dr. Peng has already contributed significantly to wearable health tech and rehabilitation sciences. His ability to combine soft material innovation, artificial intelligence, and biomechanics into novel human-machine interaction systems places him at the forefront of biomedical engineering research. While there is room for growth in the areas of commercialization and global academic engagement, his career trajectory, research excellence, and societal relevance of his innovations make him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Dukagjin Blakaj | Radiation Oncology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dukagjin Blakaj | Radiation Oncology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dukagjin Blakaj, The Ohio State University, United States

Dr. Dukagjin M. Blakaj, MD, PhD, is a distinguished physician-scientist and academic leader in radiation oncology, specializing in proton therapy. Currently serving as the Vice Chair of Clinical Operations and holding the prestigious Drs. Malati and Ganesh Potdar Endowed Professorship at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital, he brings visionary leadership in patient-centered oncology care. With dual degrees in medicine and biochemistry, Dr. Blakaj integrates clinical expertise with advanced translational research. He is renowned for developing innovative radiotherapy protocols, advancing artificial intelligence applications in oncology, and mentoring future clinician-scientists. His work significantly influences treatment outcomes for head and neck cancers, including HPV-related oropharyngeal cancer, and is published in top-tier journals. A respected thought leader and collaborative partner, Dr. Blakaj embodies excellence in academic medicine, multidisciplinary team leadership, and compassionate patient care.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

Scopus

Orcid

Education:

Dr. Blakaj’s educational path is both extensive and interdisciplinary. He earned his MD, PhD, and MS in Biochemistry from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, where he focused on molecular interactions in biological systems. Before that, he completed both a BA in Chemistry and Molecular Biology & Biophysics and an MA in Chemistry from Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT. His doctoral work explored protein-RNA interactions, laying the groundwork for his scientific rigor and precision. This strong biochemical foundation supports his innovative clinical research in radiation oncology and immunotherapy. His education highlights a consistent pattern of academic excellence and intellectual curiosity, equipping him with a rare blend of clinical insight and research acumen that continues to impact cancer treatment paradigms worldwide.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Dukagjin Blakaj is the Vice Chair of Clinical Operations in Radiation Oncology and Drs. Malati and Ganesh Potdar Endowed Professor in Proton Therapy at OSUCCC – James Cancer Hospital. As a senior faculty member, he has led transformative improvements in clinical care, quality assurance, and translational oncology research. His multidisciplinary collaboration extends across surgery, radiology, oncology, and data science, driving innovations such as AI-guided treatment protocols and digital health integration. Dr. Blakaj has also played a critical role in operationalizing proton therapy and implementing personalized cancer therapies. His background spans high-impact clinical trials, program development, and mentorship. The combination of clinical leadership and academic scholarship positions him as a strategic thinker with practical, evidence-driven execution. His commitment to precision medicine and patient-centered care distinguishes him among modern radiation oncologists.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Blakaj has received numerous accolades that reflect his clinical excellence, research innovation, and service to the academic community. Notably, he was awarded the Drs. Malati and Ganesh Potdar Endowed Professorship in Radiation Oncology – Proton Therapy (effective June 2025), the highest honor granted by Ohio State University. His ABR Volunteer Service Award (July 2025) highlights his contributions to professional standards and education. He was selected for the James Outstanding Physician Peer Award for exemplary leadership, professionalism, and collaboration (August 2024). Additionally, his abstract ranked in the Top 7 of 146 presentations at ACRO, underscoring his research’s national impact. Dr. Blakaj’s consistent recognition across service, research, and teaching is a testament to his dedication, integrity, and influence in the field of oncology.

Research Focus:

Dr. Blakaj’s research is centered on optimizing cancer treatment outcomes through precision radiation therapy, immunotherapy integration, and the application of artificial intelligence in oncology. He focuses primarily on head and neck cancers, with additional emphasis on HPV-associated oropharyngeal carcinoma, FLASH radiotherapy, and treatment response prediction using circulating tumor DNA and inflammatory indices. He co-leads interdisciplinary studies leveraging machine learning, big data, and digital health tools to personalize care and reduce treatment toxicity. His research is both translational and clinically grounded, often influencing national clinical practice guidelines and multi-center trials. As a key contributor to high-impact publications, Dr. Blakaj has established himself as a thought leader in adaptive radiotherapy and survivorship outcomes. His pioneering work in proton therapy protocols and patient-reported outcomes continues to bridge the gap between innovative science and practical oncology care.

Publications Top Notes: 

  1. An integrated ML-based prognostic model in head and neck cancer using inflammatory markers and financial toxicity

  2. Vertebral endplate disruption and compression fracture risk: Expanded radiotherapy analysis

  3. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma in nonendemic regions: Characteristics and treatment outcomes

  4. Emerging paradigms in radiation oncology: Evolution and patient-centric care

  5. FLASH radiotherapy: From in vivo data to clinical translation

  6. Digital health tools in radiation oncology: Development and implementation review

  7. ctDNA as a response marker in HPV-associated oropharyngeal carcinoma: A pilot study

  8. AI, machine learning, and big data in radiation oncology

  9. Predicting cisplatin tolerability in elderly head and neck cancer patients

  10.  Tobacco, marijuana, and alcohol use impact on survival in metastatic head and neck cancer

Conclusion:

Dr. Dukagjin M. Blakaj is a highly qualified, forward-thinking researcher whose body of work exemplifies excellence in translational oncology. He brings together advanced clinical practice, cutting-edge research, and visionary leadership to improve cancer care outcomes and drive future innovations in radiation therapy.

Given his sustained productivity, multidisciplinary leadership, and contributions to patient-centered care models, Dr. Blakaj is a deserving and outstanding nominee for the Best Researcher Award.