HWAN-JEONG JEONG | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. HWAN-JEONG JEONG | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. WAN-JEONG JEONG , Department of Nuclear Medicine, Molecular Imaging Therapeutic Medicine Research Center, Jeonbuk Regional Cyclotron Research Center & Biotracer Imaging Lab. Jeonbuk National University Medical School & Hospital, South Korea

Dr. Hwan-Jeong Jeong is a distinguished leader in the field of nuclear medicine, currently serving as Director and Professor at Jeonbuk National University Medical School & Hospital, South Korea. With over two decades of academic and clinical experience, Dr. Jeong has pioneered research in molecular imaging, photobiomodulation, and radiopharmaceutical science. He has made impactful contributions to translational oncology, neuroimaging, and light-based therapeutics. With over 120 peer-reviewed publications, 33 patents, and an H-index of 44, his work bridges the gap between basic science and clinical innovation. Recognized for advancing image-guided therapy and precision diagnostics, he also actively collaborates across global institutions and serves as Associate Editor for Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging. A recipient of multiple national and international recognitions, Dr. Jeong’s efforts continue to shape the future of medical imaging and cancer therapeutics. His commitment to integrating engineering and medicine marks him as a global innovator in nuclear and molecular medicine.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  • Outstanding Academic and Clinical Background: Dr. Jeong holds an MD, a Master’s in Medical Engineering, and a PhD in Medicine, with postdoctoral training at the prestigious MD Anderson Cancer Center.

  • Leadership in Research: As Director of multiple research centers, he has led over 20 high-impact projects, overseen 5 industry collaborations, and contributed to 120+ SCI-indexed publications.

  • Innovation & Translation: Holder of 33 patents, Dr. Jeong is a pioneer in integrating photobiogoverning, PET/CT imaging, and light-based cancer therapy, bridging lab discoveries and clinical application.

  • Global Recognition: Editorial board role in Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, and a consistent H-index of 44, reflect international impact and scientific credibility.

  • Cutting-Edge Contributions: Known for novel developments in blue light phototherapy, tumor-targeted radiopharmaceuticals, and noninvasive neuroimaging, significantly advancing cancer and neurological diagnostics.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  • Broader International Collaboration: While highly respected in Korea and internationally, formalizing more international co-research programs or multicenter trials could further expand global reach.

  • Public Engagement & Science Communication: Increasing public visibility through science outreach, open-access publications, or global lectures/webinars can elevate the societal impact of his research.

  • Interdisciplinary Expansion: Potential to integrate AI-based imaging analysis or bioinformatics tools into existing molecular imaging and diagnostics research may boost next-gen innovation.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Hwan-Jeong Jeong began his academic journey at Chonnam National University, where he earned his MD in 1993, followed by a Master’s in Medical Engineering in 2000, and a Ph.D. in Medicine in 2003. He pursued his residency in Nuclear Medicine at Chonnam National University Hospital, gaining a strong clinical foundation. To further enhance his research capabilities, he completed a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center, University of Texas, Houston, between 2008–2010. His educational path reflects an interdisciplinary approach—blending clinical medicine, biomedical engineering, and advanced imaging sciences. With an emphasis on nuclear medicine and optical diagnostics, Dr. Jeong’s educational background has strategically positioned him at the intersection of clinical practice and high-impact research. His academic evolution reflects a consistent dedication to innovation, translational research, and global collaboration.

🧪 Experience:

Dr. Jeong has served as Director and Professor of Nuclear Medicine at Jeonbuk National University Medical School & Hospital since 2005. His professional journey began with clinical training and residency, evolving into a global research career that includes a pivotal postdoctoral role at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Over the years, he has directed more than 20 research projects, consulted on 5 industry collaborations, and published over 120 scientific papers. Dr. Jeong holds 33 patents, highlighting his innovation in photomedicine and molecular imaging. He leads multiple advanced imaging centers and research labs, including the Molecular Imaging Therapeutic Medicine Research Center and Jeonbuk Regional Cyclotron Research Center. Internationally respected, he also serves as an Associate Editor for Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging. His experience combines clinical expertise, leadership in research infrastructure, and international collaborations that foster innovation and patient-centered imaging solutions.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Jeong’s research lies at the nexus of nuclear medicine, molecular imaging, and photobiomodulation therapy. His groundbreaking work integrates blue light phototherapy, PET/CT molecular imaging, radiopharmaceutical development, and fiber-optic–guided treatment systems for cancers and neurological disorders. He has made significant advances in FDG-PET imaging, amyloid brain scans, and light-triggered tumor therapies, facilitating precision diagnostics and targeted interventions. A key innovator in photobiogoverning—the biological control via light—Dr. Jeong has translated preclinical concepts into clinical applications through rigorous trials and device validation. His projects often explore the interface between biomedical optics and nano-diagnostics, enhancing real-time monitoring and minimally invasive treatments. Through cross-disciplinary collaborations and cutting-edge device design, he has shaped protocols that merge imaging with therapy for high-impact patient outcomes. His research aligns closely with future directions in personalized medicine and oncology imaging.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  • 📘 From molecular mechanisms to clinical applications: A comprehensive review of photobiomodulation in cancer treatment

  • 📘 Blue-light activated nanoplatforms for image-guided cancer therapy

  • 📘 Clinical applications of brain amyloid PET imaging in neurodegenerative diseases

  • 📘 Multimodal theranostics using PET/CT and photodynamic therapy in head and neck cancer

  • 📘 Innovative radiotracers for monitoring tumor hypoxia and therapeutic response

  • 📘 Fiber-optic–based interstitial phototherapy in liver malignancies: A pilot clinical study

  • 📘 Nanomedicine-based nuclear imaging in virus-infected tissues

  • 📘 Bioluminescent imaging in evaluating immunotherapy response in solid tumors

  • 📘 Therapeutic implications of photobiogoverning in minimally invasive oncology

  • 📘 Noninvasive tracking of neuroinflammation using fluorinated PET probes

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Hwan-Jeong Jeong is an exceptionally qualified nominee for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions to nuclear medicine, molecular imaging, and light-based therapies exemplify academic excellence, clinical innovation, and translational impact. His body of work aligns closely with the award’s values—scientific rigor, real-world application, and forward-thinking medical solutions. With ongoing work in precision diagnostics and phototherapy, he not only meets but exceeds the standards expected of top global researchers in biomedical science. Dr. Jeong’s profile is a model of interdisciplinary leadership, making him a compelling and well-deserved recipient for this prestigious recognition.

Xin Li | Biomaterials | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Xin Li | Biomaterials | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xin Li , The Chinese University of Hong Kong , Hong Kong

Dr. Xin Li is a dynamic and prolific researcher in the field of biomedical polymer materials and nanomedicine. With a Ph.D. from RWTH Aachen University under the mentorship of Prof. Andrij Pich, Dr. Li has carved a niche in responsive nanogels, ultrasound-triggered drug delivery, and smart biosensors. He currently holds a position as a Research Associate at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, following a postdoctoral fellowship at HKUST. Dr. Li has published over 70 SCI-indexed papers, earned 2600+ citations, holds 10 patents, and contributed to one academic book. His research stands out in top-tier journals like Nature Communications, Chem, Matter, and Advanced Materials. Recognized globally, he has led several high-impact research projects and received prestigious honors such as the 2024 JPA Prize and the 2021 Young Scientist Award. Dr. Li’s innovative mindset and cross-disciplinary expertise continue to push boundaries in biomedical engineering.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Outstanding Publication Record 📚
    Dr. Li has authored over 70 SCI-indexed publications in top-tier journals such as Nature Communications, Chem, Matter, Advanced Materials, and Angewandte Chemie. With an H-index of 32 and 2600+ citations, he demonstrates a strong impact in his field.

  2. Innovative and Translational Research 💡
    His work focuses on stimuli-responsive nanogels, mechanophore-based drug delivery, and biosensors, directly addressing real-world medical challenges like cancer therapy and infection monitoring.

  3. Leadership in International Projects 🌏
    Dr. Li has served as Principal Investigator and Co-leader of prestigious funding programs, including the Shanghai Overseas High-level Young Talent Program, Pujiang Program, and a Sino-German Research Grant, totaling over ¥1 million and €257,000.

  4. Interdisciplinary Expertise 🔬
    With a background in polymeric materials, biomedical engineering, and biophysics, he bridges the gap between material science and clinical applications, pushing the boundaries of modern nanomedicine.

  5. Recognized Honors and Editorial Roles 🏆
    Awards like the 2024 JPA Prize and the 2021 Young Scientist Award, along with his editorial contributions, highlight both his recognition and thought leadership in the scientific community.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Broader Industry Collaboration
    While Dr. Li has a strong academic and funding track record, increasing collaboration with biotech or pharmaceutical industries could further enhance the translational value of his research.

  2. Public Engagement and Science Communication
    As his work involves complex and novel biomedical technologies, more active engagement in science communication or public-facing platforms could broaden the reach and societal impact of his innovations.

  3. Diversified International Experience
    Though already globally active (Germany, China, Hong Kong), involvement in North American or broader EU collaborative networks might further strengthen his research diversity and global visibility.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Xin Li holds a Ph.D. in Biomedical Polymer Materials from RWTH Aachen University, Germany (2018–2023), where he worked under Prof. Andrij Pich, focusing on functional nanogels and stimuli-responsive systems for precise therapy. Prior to this, he earned an M.S. in Biomedical Engineering from Donghua University (2014–2017), supervised by Prof. Xiangyang Shi, with work centered around nanomaterials for gene and drug delivery. His academic journey began with a B.E. in Polymeric Materials and Engineering from Zhejiang A & F University (2010–2014), mentored by Prof. Pingan Song and Prof. Liang Chen. Across each academic stage, Dr. Li demonstrated an impressive aptitude for interdisciplinary innovation, combining materials science, chemical engineering, and biomedical applications. His strong educational foundation set the stage for his successful research career in developing next-generation nanomedicines and imaging technologies.

💼 Experience:

Dr. Xin Li currently serves as a Research Associate at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (2024–present), advancing cutting-edge research in nanomedicine. Prior to this, he was a Postdoctoral Fellow at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (2023–2024), where he expanded his expertise in responsive nanomaterials. His earlier research assistant roles at the DWI-Leibniz Institute (2022–2023) and Donghua University (2017) enriched his multidisciplinary experience. During his doctoral training at RWTH Aachen, Dr. Li led multiple collaborations and mentored students, reflecting his leadership potential. He has independently secured and led major grants like the Shanghai Overseas High-level Young Talent Program and the Pujiang Program. Dr. Li’s professional trajectory demonstrates a steady rise marked by impactful research, international collaboration, and continuous innovation in materials for imaging, therapy, and diagnostics.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Dr. Xin Li has been consistently recognized for his contributions to biomedical engineering and nanomedicine. In 2024, he received the JPA Prize for his role as an Excellent Young Editorial Board Member. Earlier, in 2021, he was honored with the Young Scientist Award at the 3rd Global Experts Meeting on Chemistry and Medicinal Chemistry, acknowledging his innovative research in responsive drug delivery systems. He also earned the CSC-RWTH Scholarship in 2017, awarded by the China Scholarship Council for his doctoral studies in Germany, reflecting academic excellence and international research promise. In addition to these accolades, he has been entrusted with leadership roles in competitive grant programs such as the Shanghai Overseas High-level Talent Plan and the Sino-German Center collaborative research grant. These honors highlight Dr. Li’s status as an emerging leader in translational nanomedicine and interdisciplinary biomedical research.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Xin Li’s research focuses on the design and development of stimuli-responsive nanogels, ultrasound-activated drug delivery systems, and smart biosensors. He is particularly interested in leveraging physical triggers (e.g., ultrasound, radiotherapy) to enable precise drug activation, offering high specificity and minimal side effects. His work on polymer mechanochemistry and hydrogel-based biosensors has opened new frontiers in non-invasive cancer therapy, infection monitoring, and imaging. With a deep understanding of polymer physics, biomedical engineering, and nanotechnology, Dr. Li integrates multiple disciplines to tackle challenges in tumor-targeted delivery, photothermal therapy, and metabolic reprogramming. His future focus includes developing clinically translatable systems for real-time therapy monitoring, immune modulation, and personalized medicine. By combining fundamental research with practical applications, Dr. Li aims to revolutionize how diseases like cancer and infections are diagnosed and treated.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 Transvascular transport of nanocarriers for tumor delivery, Nat. Commun., 2024

  2. 🧠 Leukocyte-nanomedicine system for targeted delivery and precise theragnostics, Chem, 2022

  3. 🩹 A wireless and battery-free DNA hydrogel biosensor for wound infection monitoring, Matter, 2022

  4. 💊 Radiotherapy-triggered prodrug activation: A new era in precise chemotherapy, Med, 2022

  5. 🧪 Engineered living hydrogels for robust biocatalysis in pure organic solvents, Cell Rep. Phys. Sci., 2022

  6. ☢️ Radiotherapy activated systems for precise tumor treatment, Nat. Rev. Cancer, 2025

  7. 💧 Sprayed aqueous microdroplets for spontaneous synthesis of functional microgels, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 2025

  8. 🧬 Functional dendrimer nanogels for DNA delivery and gene therapy of tumors, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 2025

  9. 🔥 Global cold local photothermal-mediated synergistic metabolic antitumor immunity, Adv. Mater., 2025

  10. 📡 Network topology of nanogels regulates mechanophore activation for ultrasound-mediated therapy, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 2025

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Xin Li is highly suitable and deserving of the Best Researcher Award. His exceptional research output, innovative project leadership, and contributions to translational biomedical science place him among the leading young researchers globally. While there is room for expanding industry ties and global engagement, his trajectory, impact, and recognition already demonstrate excellence well above typical benchmarks. Dr. Li exemplifies the future of interdisciplinary research and is a valuable asset to the global scientific community.

Wen Li | Tissue Engineering Regeneration | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Wen Li | Tissue Engineering Regeneration | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Wen Li , State key laboratory of supramolecular structure and materials, college of chemistry, Jilin University , China

Professor Wen Li is a leading scientist at the College of Chemistry, Jilin University, recognized for his contributions to peptide- and protein-based bioactive materials. Earning his Ph.D. from Jilin University in 2006, he rapidly advanced through academic ranks—from lecturer to full professor by 2013. His academic journey also includes postdoctoral research at Seoul National University, South Korea. Professor Li’s interdisciplinary research integrates chemistry, materials science, and biomedical applications, positioning him as a pioneering figure in supramolecular chemistry and bioinspired adhesives. With numerous high-impact publications and innovations in antimicrobial peptides, tissue sealants, and soft electronics, he has significantly contributed to both scientific knowledge and real-world biomedical applications. His commitment to translating fundamental research into functional materials continues to drive breakthroughs in sustainable, degradable, and biocompatible materials.

Publication Profile:

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Outstanding Academic Progression

    • From Ph.D. completion in 2006 to full professorship by 2013, Professor Wen Li has shown rapid and consistent academic advancement.

    • He has international research exposure through his postdoctoral work at Seoul National University.

  2. High-Impact Research Contributions

    • Published extensively in top-tier journals such as Angewandte Chemie, Biomaterials, Advanced Healthcare Materials, Langmuir, and Journal of Materials Chemistry.

    • His research is highly interdisciplinary, linking peptide self-assembly, biomaterials, antimicrobial systems, and energy devices.

  3. Real-World Impact & Innovation

    • Developed cutting-edge bioadhesives, nano-antimicrobial systems, and biodegradable materials with significant medical and environmental relevance.

    • Strong emphasis on sustainability, biocompatibility, and smart responsive materials like redox or photo-controlled systems.

  4. Leadership and Collaboration

    • Leads a productive research group, mentoring young scientists and collaborating across multiple institutions.

    • His publications include a large network of co-authors, showing evidence of team science and academic collaboration.

  5. Diverse Research Outputs

    • Contributions span various formats: fundamental studies, applied innovations, material designs, and medical applications.

    • From self-healing hydrogels to stretchable supercapacitors, his portfolio is both deep and diverse.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. Commercial and Clinical Translation

    • While the foundational work is strong, more efforts toward industrial partnerships and clinical trials would increase real-world adoption.

    • Filing patents or working with biotech/medical device companies could help scale his research outcomes.

  2. Global Visibility

    • Greater involvement in international conferences, editorial boards, or global initiatives can further enhance his global academic footprint.

    • Collaborative projects with top labs outside Asia could diversify perspectives and increase influence.

📘 Education:

Wen Li received his Ph.D. in Chemistry from Jilin University in 2006, a prestigious institution known for its advanced research in materials and chemical sciences. His doctoral studies focused on supramolecular structures, laying the foundation for his career in peptide and polymer-based materials. The rigorous academic environment at Jilin University equipped him with deep insights into molecular interactions, material fabrication, and biomedical chemistry. After completing his Ph.D., he expanded his academic perspective by pursuing postdoctoral research at Seoul National University (2010–2011), one of South Korea’s top-tier research universities. There, he collaborated on interdisciplinary projects that fused chemistry with nanotechnology and biomaterials. This international experience enriched his scientific worldview and further refined his expertise in designing functional peptide-based assemblies. His academic training bridges the gap between molecular chemistry and real-world applications, particularly in the biomedical and environmental sectors.

👨‍🔬 Experience:

Professor Wen Li began his academic career as a lecturer at the State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structures and Materials, Jilin University, immediately after receiving his Ph.D. in 2006. By 2008, he was promoted to Associate Professor due to his early contributions to peptide-based material science. Between 2010 and 2011, he broadened his research capabilities as a postdoctoral fellow at Seoul National University, where he engaged in collaborative research on supramolecular assemblies and nano-biotechnology. Returning to Jilin University, he became a full professor in September 2013, leading a dynamic research group dedicated to cutting-edge biomaterials and soft electronics. With over 15 years of academic and research experience, Professor Li has mentored numerous graduate students, secured significant research grants, and maintained a strong publication record. His career trajectory reflects continuous advancement in leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovation in bioinspired materials.

🔬 Research Focus:

Professor Wen Li’s research centers on the design and fabrication of peptide- and protein-based bioactive materials with applications in healthcare and sustainability. His work explores self-assembling nano-antimicrobial peptides, biomimetic underwater adhesives, tissue sealants, and flexible hydrogel electronics, integrating supramolecular chemistry with biomedical engineering. A notable strength of his research lies in creating multifunctional materials that are not only biocompatible and degradable but also smart and responsive, such as photo-switchable or redox-reactive assemblies. His group develops materials that perform complex biological tasks—like sealing tissues, healing wounds, or delivering antimicrobial activity—while maintaining eco-friendly characteristics. Recent efforts also include bio-plastics and adhesive tapes for surgical and environmental use. Professor Li’s innovations address pressing challenges in medical technology and sustainability, aiming for materials that are both high-performing and environmentally conscious. His work bridges disciplines and has wide-ranging impact across chemistry, medicine, and green materials science.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 Polyoxometalate-Driven Self-Assembly of Short Peptides into Multivalent Nanofibers with Enhanced Antibacterial Activity – Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. (2016)

  2. 🔦 Host–Guest Interaction Driven Peptide Assembly into Photoresponsive 2D Nanosheets with Switchable Antibacterial Activity – CCS Chem. (2021)

  3. 🧪 Nano-Antimicrobial Peptides Based on Constitutional Isomerism-Dictated Self-Assembly – Biomacromolecules (2022)

  4. 🧲 Exploiting Redox-Complementary Peptide/Polyoxometalate Coacervates for Spontaneously Curing into Antimicrobial Adhesives – Biomacromolecules (2022)

  5. 💧 Wet and Functional Adhesives from One-Step Self-Assembly of Amino Acids and Polyoxometalates – Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. (2017)

  6. 🩹 Peptide/Glycyrrhizic Acid Supramolecular Polymer: A Medical Adhesive for Dural Sealing – Biomaterials (2023)

  7. 🌿 Plant Protein-Peptide Supramolecular Polymers for Surgical Sealing – Adv. Healthcare Mater. (2023)

  8. ⚙️ Protein-Based Supramolecular Adhesive with On-Demand Adhesion for Preventing Tissue Adhesion – Chem. Eng. J. (2025)

  9. 🔋 Embedding Hydrogel Electrodes for Stretchable High-Performance Supercapacitors – Chem. Eng. J. (2024)

  10. 🧼 Advances in Peptide/Polymer Antimicrobial Assemblies – J. Mater. Chem. B (2025)

🧾 Conclusion:

Professor Wen Li is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His research addresses critical scientific and societal challenges, such as antimicrobial resistance, surgical innovation, and eco-friendly material development. He combines rigorous chemistry with creative engineering, producing solutions that are both scientifically novel and practically viable.