Boaz Mohar | Neuronal Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Boaz Mohar | Neuronal Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Boaz Mohar , HHMI Janelia Reseach Campus , United States

Boaz Mohar is a research scientist at Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) in Ashburn, VA. He has made significant contributions to the field of neuroscience, particularly in the areas of synaptic plasticity, neuronal imaging, and cellular mechanisms in brain function. Throughout his career, Boaz has collaborated with leading scientists, including Dr. Karel Svoboda and Dr. Nelson Spruston. His research has focused on the intricate processes that underlie learning and memory, utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as two-photon calcium imaging and expansion microscopy. Boaz’s work has been published in high-impact journals, and he continues to push the boundaries of neuroscience research through his innovative methods and interdisciplinary approach. His extensive experience as both a researcher and mentor makes him a prominent figure in his field, as he actively contributes to advancing scientific knowledge while mentoring the next generation of neuroscientists.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

Boaz Mohar is highly deserving of the Researcher of the Year award due to his exceptional scientific contributions, innovative research methods, and leadership in the field of neuroscience. His work spans groundbreaking studies on brain-wide synaptic plasticity, cellular imaging techniques, and calcium sensor development, contributing to a deeper understanding of neural activity and brain function. His numerous high-impact publications, particularly in Nature Methods, eLife, and Nature Neuroscience, reflect his scientific rigor and ability to advance the field. Furthermore, his skill in mentoring and fostering the next generation of researchers through his mentoring roles and collaborative projects further highlights his leadership and commitment to advancing neuroscience.

Areas for Improvement:

While Boaz’s body of work is impressive, focusing on expanding his outreach and collaboration with interdisciplinary fields could further enhance his contributions. Diversifying research areas could broaden the impact of his work. Additionally, increasing his participation in conferences or expanding his presence in global collaborations might provide further opportunities for recognition and growth in the scientific community.

Education:

Boaz Mohar completed his doctoral studies and received his post-doctoral training at Janelia Research Campus, HHMI, under the guidance of Dr. Karel Svoboda and Dr. Nelson Spruston. He was awarded the prestigious HHMI’s Janelia Research Visiting Student Fellowship from 2015 to 2016, which facilitated his early involvement in advanced neuroscience research. Boaz’s academic training also includes a strong foundation in neuroscience, particularly focusing on neurobiology, brain function, and synaptic mechanisms. His rigorous educational background allowed him to hone his skills in diverse experimental techniques, including two-photon calcium imaging, electrophysiology, and histological analysis. His Ph.D. work provided him with a deep understanding of sensory processing in the brain and synaptic plasticity, laying the groundwork for his subsequent impactful research projects. Through this formal education and hands-on experience, Boaz has become a leading researcher and mentor in his field.

Experience:

Boaz Mohar has a distinguished research career, currently serving as a research scientist at Janelia Research Campus, HHMI, where he works on advancing our understanding of brain-wide synaptic plasticity. Prior to this role, he was a Post-doctoral Associate at the same institution from 2016 to 2022, contributing to numerous groundbreaking projects in neuroscience. He has collaborated with renowned scientists such as Dr. Karel Svoboda and Dr. Nelson Spruston, applying advanced imaging and electrophysiological techniques to study synaptic dynamics and brain activity. His prior role as a visiting student further solidified his reputation as an expert in cutting-edge neuroscience tools and methodologies. Additionally, Boaz has extensive mentoring experience, having supervised PhD students, summer scholars, and external research projects, demonstrating his leadership in fostering the next generation of scientists. His work spans various technical aspects, including super-resolution microscopy, calcium imaging, and in vivo recordings.

Awards and Honors:

Boaz Mohar has received several prestigious awards throughout his career, showcasing his significant contributions to neuroscience research. He was honored with the HHMI’s Janelia Research Visiting Student Fellowship (2015-2016), which provided vital support for his early research endeavors. Boaz also received the President of Israel Excellence in Neuroscience Prize in 2013, a testament to his exceptional academic potential and research accomplishments. This award recognized his innovative contributions to neuroscience, further solidifying his reputation in the scientific community. In addition to these accolades, Boaz has been actively involved in professional activities, such as independent reviewing for various high-impact journals and co-reviewing for renowned publications like Neuron, Science, and The Journal of Neuroscience. These awards and professional involvements highlight his excellence as a researcher and his role in advancing the field of neuroscience through his work and mentorship.

Research Focus:

Boaz Mohar’s research is primarily focused on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of synaptic plasticity and brain function. His work utilizes advanced imaging techniques, such as two-photon calcium imaging and expansion microscopy, to investigate brain-wide synaptic protein turnover and its role in learning and memory. Boaz’s projects are centered around understanding how neuronal activity shapes synaptic connections and contributes to learning-related plasticity. He is particularly interested in the spatial and temporal dynamics of synaptic proteins during brain activity. By exploring the connections between dendritic activity, cellular structure, and synaptic changes, his research aims to provide insights into how the brain processes and stores information. Additionally, Boaz’s work extends into the development and optimization of novel tools and techniques, including high-performance calcium sensors and super-resolution imaging, to better study neural circuits and synaptic transmission. His innovative approaches have the potential to significantly enhance our understanding of the brain’s function.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Brainwide measurement of synaptic protein turnover reveals localized plasticity during learning 🧠📊

  2. Ten-fold Robust Expansion Microscopy 🧬🔬

  3. Glutamate indicators with improved activation kinetics and localization for imaging synaptic transmission 💡🧠

  4. Cytoskeleton Elements Contribute to Prion Peptide-Induced Endothelial Barrier Breakdown in a Blood–Brain Barrier In Vitro System ⚙️🧬

  5. Visualizing cellular and tissue ultrastructure using Ten-fold Robust Expansion Microscopy (TREx) 🔬🔍

  6. Meningeal lymphoid structures are activated under acute and chronic spinal cord pathologies 🧠⚡

  7. A general method to optimize and functionalize red-shifted rhodamine dyes 🎨🧫

  8. Functional clustering of dendritic activity during decision-making 🧠🧩

  9. High-performance calcium sensors for imaging activity in neuronal populations and microcompartments 🧪💡

  10. Sensitive red protein calcium indicators for imaging neural activity 🧬💻

  11. Video-rate volumetric functional imaging of the brain at synaptic resolution 🎥🧠

  12. Local and thalamic origins of correlated ongoing and sensory-evoked cortical activities 🧠🔊

Conclusion:

Dr. Boaz Mohar is an exceptionally talented scientist whose innovative work is pushing the boundaries of neuroscience and neuroimaging. His research on synaptic function and neuronal signaling has the potential to unlock critical insights into brain activity and disorders. His track record of prestigious awards, high-impact publications, and mentorship makes him an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award. While further expanding his outreach and translating his work into clinical settings could enhance the real-world impact of his research, his current contributions already position him as one of the top leaders in neuroscience today.

Jung Ho Hyun | Neuronal Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Jung Ho Hyun | Neuronal Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jung Ho Hyun , Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science & Technology (DGIST) , South Korea

Dr. Jung Ho Hyun is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Brain Sciences, Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), Korea. His research focuses on neurophysiology, cognitive neuroscience, and molecular tools for studying neural activity. He earned his Ph.D. in Physiology from Seoul National University (SNU) in 2015, after completing a Master’s in the same field at SNU. Dr. Hyun’s academic career includes significant research experience at prestigious institutions, including Johns Hopkins University and the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience. His work has led to important insights into memory, cognitive flexibility, and neuronal activity. Dr. Hyun is dedicated to mentoring young scientists and sharing his knowledge through invited lectures worldwide. His contributions to neuroscience have made a significant impact, evidenced by numerous publications in renowned journals.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Jung Ho Hyun is a highly accomplished and innovative researcher with significant contributions to the field of neuroscience, particularly in understanding neuronal activity and cognitive processes. His research focuses on cutting-edge topics such as memory, cognitive flexibility, and the development of molecular tools for neuronal manipulation. His ability to integrate molecular biology with neurophysiology has advanced the scientific community’s understanding of brain function, making his work highly relevant for both basic science and clinical applications. Dr. Hyun’s leadership and mentoring roles have also fostered future generations of neuroscientists, further solidifying his impact in the field.

Notable accomplishments include several prestigious awards and travel grants, invited lectures at international conferences, and a strong publication record in high-impact journals such as Nature Communications and The Journal of Physiology. His involvement in interdisciplinary research and development of novel techniques for manipulating neural circuits positions him as a leading figure in his field.

Areas for Improvement:

While Dr. Hyun has demonstrated tremendous research capabilities, one area for growth could be expanding his research collaborations to interdisciplinary fields such as computational neuroscience, which may further enhance the translation of his findings to clinical and therapeutic applications. In addition, as his work continues to gain prominence, a greater focus on the application of his research to the treatment of neurological diseases could increase the broader societal impact of his work.

Education:

Dr. Jung Ho Hyun completed his Bachelor’s degree in Biology from Pusan National University, South Korea, in 2007. He then pursued graduate studies at Seoul National University (SNU) College of Medicine, earning his Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Physiology in 2010. Following this, he continued his research journey and obtained a Ph.D. in Physiology from SNU in 2015 under the supervision of Dr. Suk-Ho Lee. Dr. Hyun’s strong academic foundation provided him with the tools to delve deeply into neurophysiology and molecular neuroscience. His educational journey has led to groundbreaking research at the intersection of memory, neuronal activity, and cognitive behavior. He has continuously built on his academic foundation with collaborative research experiences at leading global institutions such as Johns Hopkins University and the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience.

Experience:

Dr. Jung Ho Hyun currently serves as an Assistant Professor at the Department of Brain Sciences at Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST), South Korea. Prior to this, he was a JHU Research Fellow at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, where he contributed to important projects on cognitive neuroscience and neuronal activity. Dr. Hyun has also been involved in significant research activities at the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience. His primary research focus includes molecular tools for recording and manipulating neuronal activity, and understanding the molecular underpinnings of cognitive flexibility. In his academic career, he has not only contributed to cutting-edge research but has also been an educator, lecturing on human physiology and neuroimaging techniques. As a mentor, Dr. Hyun has guided students and researchers, cultivating future scientists in the field of neuroscience.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Jung Ho Hyun has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his career. In 2021, he was awarded the Travel Award at the 44th Annual Meeting of the Japan Neuroscience Society. His work has also been recognized with the 2019 Gill Symposium Travel Award, which supported his research contributions at a global level. In 2018, he received the Korean American Society in Biotech and Pharmaceuticals Fellowship Award, recognizing his outstanding research contributions in the field of neuroscience. Dr. Hyun was also granted the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) Travel Grant in 2018, facilitating further academic collaborations. These honors reflect the recognition and respect Dr. Hyun has earned within the scientific community, underscoring his commitment to advancing neuroscience research. His consistent pursuit of excellence is further exemplified by his leadership in mentoring and scientific outreach efforts.

Research Focus:

Dr. Jung Ho Hyun’s research focuses on understanding the neural mechanisms underlying cognitive flexibility, memory, and complex behavioral processes. His work explores how memory is stored and retrieved in the brain and how neural circuits contribute to cognitive processes such as decision-making and behavioral flexibility. Dr. Hyun’s lab utilizes molecular tools, including genetically encoded calcium indicators, to track and manipulate neuronal activity at the cellular and circuit level. One of his key areas of focus is understanding how neural populations encode and process information, particularly in regions like the orbitofrontal cortex. His research aims to uncover how manipulating neural ensembles can help treat brain illnesses and disorders. Dr. Hyun’s contributions to the development of new methods to study neural activity have positioned him at the forefront of neurophysiological research, with significant potential for clinical applications.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Eom K#, Kim D#, Hyun JH* (2025) “Engram and behavior: How memory is stored in the brain.” 🧠📚 Neurobiology of Learning and Memory.
  2. Eom K, Jung J#, Kim B#, Hyun JH* (2024) “Molecular tools for recording and intervention of neuronal activity.” 🧬🔬 Molecules and Cells.
  3. Hyun JH, Hannan P, Iwamoto H, Blakely R, Kwon H-B (2023) “Serotonin in the orbitofrontal cortex enhances cognitive flexibility.” 🧠💡 bioRxiv.
  4. Hyun JH#, Nagahama K#, Ho N#, Mignocchi N, Roh S-E, Hannan P, Krüssel S, Kwak C, McElroy A, Liu B, Cui M, Lee S, Lee D, Huganir RL, Worley PF, Sawa A, Kwon H-B (2022) “Tagging active neurons by soma-targeted Cal-Light.” 🔦🧬 Nature Communications.
  5. Eom K#, Lee HR#, Hyun JH, Ryu H-H, Lee Y-S, Ho W-K, Lee S-H (2021) “Gradual decorrelation of CA3 ensembles associated with contextual discrimination learning is impaired by Kv1.2 insufficiency.” 🔬📊 Hippocampus.

Conclusion:

Dr. Jung Ho Hyun is an excellent candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his innovative research, exceptional contributions to neuroscience, and strong leadership. His multidisciplinary approach to understanding cognitive flexibility and memory, along with his pioneering use of molecular tools to study neural circuits, sets him apart as a leader in his field.

Nikolay Sudakov | Neuronal Cell Biology | Best Paper Award

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Dr. Nikolay Sudakov | Neuronal Cell Biology | Best Paper Award

Dr. Nikolay Sudakov  , Limnological Institute, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences , Russia

Dr. Sudakov Nikolay Petrovich is a Senior Researcher at the Limnological Institute, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences. His extensive academic and professional background in biology includes expertise in cell biology, pathological physiology, clinical laboratory diagnostics, and physiology. He holds the title of Magister of Biology, Assistant Professor in Pathological Physiology, and Candidate of Biological Sciences (PhD). Dr. Sudakov’s primary research revolves around neurobiology, pathophysiology, and the adaptive mechanisms of organisms to environmental factors, with a special focus on the fish olfactory system. His contributions to the field are exemplified by his work on receptor neurons and the molecular pathways of intervertebral disc regeneration, along with various funded projects that have furthered our understanding of diseases like atherosclerosis and the mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

Dr. Sudakov’s research showcases a deep understanding of mitochondrial function, neurobiology, and pathophysiology, as seen in his extensive publications on mitochondrial DNA, ischemia-reperfusion injury, and atherosclerosis. He has made significant contributions to cellular biology, particularly in the areas of neurogenesis and the olfactory system in fish, which demonstrates his innovative approach to understanding biological systems. His work bridges molecular biology with applied biomedicine, which has broad implications for disease diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, his projects have been supported by major Russian scientific foundations, including the Russian Foundation for Basic Research and the Russian Science Foundation.

Areas for Improvement:

While Dr. Sudakov has an extensive research portfolio, his experience in publishing books or patents could enhance his profile in the global scientific community. Collaborations and editorial appointments might further improve his visibility and impact in international research networks. Expanding his engagement with industry collaborations may also provide additional real-world application and funding opportunities.

Education:

Dr. Sudakov holds a Magister of Biology degree specializing in Cell Biology. He earned his PhD in Biological Sciences, where he focused on pathological physiology, and was recognized as a specialist in clinical laboratory diagnostics. His academic journey includes appointments as an Assistant Professor, specializing in pathological physiology (14.03.03). He further honed his expertise through postdoctoral research in areas like physiology, neurobiology, and molecular biology. His academic path reflects a deep commitment to understanding the biological foundations of health and disease, alongside the application of this knowledge in practical fields such as biomedicine and neurobiology. Throughout his career, Dr. Sudakov has demonstrated a passion for research, publishing extensively in high-impact journals, while collaborating with experts across multiple research fields to drive innovations in cell biology and disease mechanisms.

Experience:

Dr. Sudakov has over two decades of research experience, particularly within the fields of neurobiology, pathophysiology, and molecular biology. He has successfully led numerous funded projects, most notably with the Russian Foundation for Basic Research and the Russian Science Foundation, contributing valuable findings on cellular mechanisms related to neurogenesis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and intervertebral disc regeneration. His research spans a variety of areas, including the impact of mitochondrial DNA levels in diseases like atherosclerosis and ischemia. Dr. Sudakov has applied his expertise in confocal laser scanning microscopy and electron microscopy to elucidate key physiological processes at the cellular level, particularly in the context of the olfactory system and other sensory organs. His experience also includes serving as a consultant for academic research and being a recipient of prestigious grants, which further underscores his expertise in conducting high-impact, interdisciplinary scientific investigations.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Sudakov has received numerous accolades in recognition of his outstanding contributions to scientific research. He has been awarded several grants from prominent scientific bodies, such as the Russian Foundation for Basic Research, the Russian Science Foundation, and the Presidium of the Russian Academy of Sciences. In addition, he was a recipient of the Carl Zeiss grant for his work in the diagnosis and prognosis of fatty liver disease linked to metabolic syndrome. Furthermore, he has earned the RF Presidential Scholarship for his groundbreaking research on adaptive mechanisms in fish sensory systems. Dr. Sudakov’s accomplishments have been recognized internationally through citations in leading scientific journals, and his research has been honored with several peer-reviewed publications. His contributions have not only enhanced the understanding of cellular dynamics and neurobiology but also paved the way for novel therapeutic approaches to various diseases, including atherosclerosis and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Research Focus:

Dr. Sudakov’s research primarily focuses on neurobiology, pathophysiology, and the molecular mechanisms underlying various diseases, with a particular emphasis on mitochondrial dysfunction and sensory system adaptation. His work investigates the plasticity of the olfactory epithelium in fish, focusing on receptor neurons and support cells during key biological stages. Additionally, his research explores the role of mitochondrial DNA in predicting the severity of cardiovascular diseases like acute coronary syndrome, as well as the molecular pathways involved in intervertebral disc regeneration. His studies also cover topics such as the impact of environmental factors on physiological adaptation, with an emphasis on how chronic exposures to toxins or stressors affect cellular functions. Dr. Sudakov’s interdisciplinary approach integrates advanced microscopy techniques and experimental models to understand the fundamental processes driving pathologies such as atherosclerosis, ischemia, and neurodegenerative diseases, contributing to the broader field of biomedicine and therapeutic development.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. The level of free circulating mitochondrial DNA in blood as predictor of death in case of acute coronary syndrome 🧬❤️
  2. Механизмы участия митохондрий в развитии патологических процессов, сопровождающихся ишемией и реперфузией 🧪🔬
  3. Extracellular Actin in Health and Disease 🧫🧬
  4. Влияние хронической свинцовой интоксикации на организм человека 🩸🧠
  5. Уровень свободно циркулирующей митохондриальной ДНК крови при дислипопротеидемии и адреналиновом миокардите 💉💔
  6. Дисфункция митохондрий при нейродегенеративных заболеваниях 🧠💀
  7. Роль митохондрий в реализации механизмов программированной гибели клетки 🧬⚡
  8. Взаимосвязь уровня свободно циркулирующей митохондриальной ДНК крови с активностью маркеров цитолиза при экспериментальной острой мелкоочаговой ишемии миокарда 🔬💔
  9. The Phenomenon of Compensatory Cell Proliferation in Olfactory Epithelium in Fish Caused by Prolonged Exposure to Natural Odorants 🐟🔬
  10. Rearrangement of Actin Microfilaments in the Development of Olfactory Receptor Cells in Fish 🧬🐠

Conclusion:

Dr. Sudakov’s contributions to the fields of neurobiology, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cellular pathophysiology, particularly through innovative research on mitochondrial DNA and fish olfactory systems, make him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Paper Award. His body of work demonstrates academic rigor and innovative thinking, laying a strong foundation for continued excellence in his field. Further collaboration and dissemination of his findings can expand the impact of his work globally.