Weili Miao | RNA biology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Dr. Weili Miao | RNA biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Weili Miao, Stanford University, United States

Dr. Weili Miao is an accomplished molecular biologist with a focus on RNA biology, biomolecule interactions, and translational control. She earned her Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of California, Riverside, and currently serves as a postdoctoral researcher at Stanford University. Her work has uncovered novel functions of biomolecule interactions in gene expression, with implications for tissue differentiation and disease. Dr. Miao’s high-impact publications in Cell, Nature Communications, and Nucleic Acids Research reflect her technical rigor and creativity. She is a recipient of the prestigious NIH K01 Award and has developed state-of-the-art techniques like irCLIP-RNP and PROBER. Her interdisciplinary research bridges chemistry, biology, and medicine, making significant strides in understanding gene regulation mechanisms. Dr. Miao is an emerging leader in her field and continues to inspire with her meticulous research and impactful discoveries.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

scopus

Strengths for the Award:

  1.  Outstanding Publication Record:
    Dr. Miao is first or co-first author on multiple high-impact publications in top-tier journals such as Cell, Nature Communications, Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, and Nucleic Acids Research. These reflect cutting-edge research on RNA-protein interactions and gene regulation.

  2.  Innovative Method Development:
    She has contributed to the development and application of innovative molecular tools including easy-CLIP, irCLIP-RNP, PROBER, and MST—advancing the technical landscape for RNA/DNA-protein interaction studies.

  3.  Novel Biological Discoveries:
    Her discoveries, particularly regarding glucose’s unexpected regulatory role in RNA-binding proteins such as DDX21, DDX50, and NSUN2, have significantly advanced our understanding of metabolic-epigenetic regulation in tissue differentiation.

  4.  Prestigious Funding:
    Recipient of the NIH K01 Mentored Research Scientist Development Award (2024–2029), highlighting her potential for becoming an independent research leader.

  5.  Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration:
    Extensive collaborations across structural biology, biochemistry, and systems biology with prominent labs at Stanford, showcasing her integrative approach and strong team science credentials.

Areas for Improvement:

  1.  Global Science Communication:
    Greater involvement in public science engagement, outreach, or policy translation could expand the societal impact of her work.

  2.  Independent Research Leadership:
    While she has secured the NIH K01 award, leading a research group or mentoring postdoctoral scholars would further elevate her academic stature.

  3.  Translational Impact:
    Strengthening clinical or translational applications of her findings—particularly in cancer or metabolic disease—could increase her visibility in applied biomedical research.

Education:

Dr. Weili Miao completed her Ph.D. in Chemistry at the University of California, Riverside in May 2019, where she specialized in proteomics and biomolecular interactions. During her doctoral studies, she developed quantitative proteomic techniques to study kinase activity and m6A modifications, contributing significantly to our understanding of stress responses and cancer biology. Prior to her Ph.D., she earned her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the prestigious Fudan University, China, in June 2014. Her educational background blends a strong foundation in chemistry with advanced molecular biology, enabling her to approach scientific questions with precision and innovation. Her academic training has been instrumental in driving her postdoctoral research in RNA-protein interaction networks and biomolecule regulation. These formative experiences laid the groundwork for her high-impact contributions to biomedical science and continue to support her trajectory as an independent investigator.

Research Experience:

Since September 2019, Dr. Weili Miao has been a Postdoctoral Researcher at Stanford University, where she explores how biomolecules such as glucose regulate RNA- and DNA-binding proteins. Her pioneering discoveries revealed that glucose binds DDX21, DDX50, and NSUN2, influencing mRNA splicing and epidermal differentiation. She has expertly incorporated advanced methodologies like irCLIP-RNP, easy-CLIP, PROBER, and MST, contributing to a deeper understanding of RNA biology and epigenetics. Prior to this, her Ph.D. work at UC Riverside involved proteome-wide characterization of kinase activity and m6A RNA modifications in stress and cancer contexts. Her work stands out for both technical innovation and biological relevance. Dr. Miao’s interdisciplinary background in proteomics, RNA biology, and structural biochemistry positions her at the forefront of biomedical discovery. She collaborates with leaders in the field and contributes to major scientific consortia, demonstrating a trajectory of excellence and leadership in research.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Weili Miao has received numerous prestigious honors recognizing her scientific excellence and research promise. In 2024, she was awarded the NIH K01 Mentored Research Scientist Development Award (2024–2029), affirming her potential as a future independent investigator. During her Ph.D. at UC Riverside, she earned the Dissertation Year Program Fellowship (2018–2019), recognizing her outstanding doctoral research. In 2019, she received the Award for Outstanding Self-financed Students Abroad, a highly competitive honor granted by the Chinese government to top-performing international scholars. These accolades reflect her consistent high-impact research and innovation in RNA biology, proteomics, and biomolecule interaction networks. Her ability to secure national-level funding and recognition at every stage of her career demonstrates a rare combination of technical expertise, leadership, and strategic research vision. Dr. Miao’s honors not only validate her achievements but also highlight her rising influence in the field of molecular and cellular biology.

Research Focus:

Dr. Weili Miao’s research focuses on the molecular mechanisms by which small biomolecules regulate RNA-, DNA-, and protein-binding factors, with implications for gene expression, tissue development, and disease. At Stanford, she investigates how metabolites like glucose modulate RNA-binding proteins (e.g., DDX21, NSUN2), using integrative methods such as mass spectrometry, RNA-protein crosslinking, and structural analysis. Her work has uncovered how these interactions affect mRNA splicing, RNA stability, and translation—pivotal processes in differentiation and disease progression. Dr. Miao also advances novel tools for mapping protein interactions (e.g., PROBER, irCLIP-RNP), enabling more precise interrogation of functional biomolecular networks. Her long-term goal is to unravel the interplay between metabolism and gene regulation in health and disease. Through cutting-edge research, she bridges proteomics, RNA biology, and cell signaling, delivering insights that are both mechanistically profound and clinically relevant.

Publications Top Notes:

  1.  Regulation of RNA-binding proteins by small biomolecules, Nat. Rev. Mol. Cell Biol., 2025, in press

  2.  DDX50 cooperates with STAU1 to effect stabilization of pro-differentiation RNAs, Cell Rep., 2025

  3.  Disease-Linked Regulatory DNA Variants and Homeostatic Transcription Factors in Epidermis, Nat. Commun., 2025

  4.  Glucose binds and activates NSUN2 to promote translation and epidermal differentiation, Nucleic Acids Res., 2024

  5.  Glucose dissociates DDX21 dimers to regulate mRNA splicing and tissue differentiation, Cell, 2023

  6.  Targeted Proteomic Approaches for AMP-binding Capacities of Kinases, J. Proteome Res., 2022

  7.  Roles of N6-Methyladenosine in Heat Shock Response, J. Proteome Res., 2021

  8.  Kinome Reprogramming During Radiation Resistance in Breast Cancer Cells, J. Proteome Res., 2021

  9.  SARS-CoV-2 Spike Variants Bind Human ACE2 with Increased Affinity, Lancet Infect. Dis., 2021

  10.  Kinome Reprogramming During Melanoma Metastasis, Sci. Rep., 2020

Conclusion:

Dr. Weili Miao is a highly accomplished early-career scientist whose contributions to RNA biology and biomolecule interaction networks are both profound and innovative. Her ability to integrate quantitative proteomics, molecular biology, and structural techniques positions her uniquely within the biomedical research landscape. With an exceptional record of first-author publications, advanced technical skills, and independent funding secured, Dr. Miao not only meets but exceeds the standards for the Best Researcher Award. While expanding her translational footprint and leadership responsibilities could further solidify her trajectory, she is unequivocally a top-tier candidate deserving of recognition.

Hongrui Meng | RNA biology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cell Biologist

Dr. Hongrui Meng | RNA biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hongrui Meng, Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, China

Dr. Hongrui Meng is a distinguished neuroscientist specializing in the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases. With a Ph.D. in Behavioral Neuroscience from Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Japan, Dr. Meng furthered his expertise through postdoctoral training at Juntendo University, Tokyo. He served as an assistant professor before establishing the Laboratory of Molecular Neurology at the Institute of Neuroscience, Soochow University, where he became a full professor in 2020. His pioneering work has made notable advances in understanding Parkinson’s disease, ALS, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Dr. Meng’s research integrates cellular, genetic, and biochemical tools using models ranging from Drosophila to mice. He has authored over a dozen peer-reviewed publications and holds international patents for novel molecular diagnostic techniques. Additionally, he collaborates with pharmaceutical companies to develop plant-based neuroprotective agents. As a committed mentor and leader, he contributes to scientific societies and editorial boards and is known for his translational approach in bridging basic science and therapeutic innovation.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Pioneering Research in Neurodegeneration:
    Dr. Meng has significantly contributed to understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, especially Parkinson’s disease and ALS, with a focus on mitochondrial dysfunction, protein aggregation, and innate immunity.

  2. International Academic Background and Collaborations:
    Educated and trained in Japan with active collaborations in both academic and industry sectors (e.g., Longma Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.), Dr. Meng bridges global perspectives and translational goals effectively.

  3. Strong Publication and Patent Record:
    He has published over a dozen high-impact, peer-reviewed articles (SCI, Scopus indexed) and holds international patents in diagnostic methodology. His research output demonstrates consistency, innovation, and real-world applicability.

  4. Leadership in Research and Lab Management:
    As a full professor and founder of the Laboratory of Molecular Neurology at Soochow University, Dr. Meng leads a dynamic team with successful research grants, including from JSPS, NSFC, and Takeda Foundation.

  5. Interdisciplinary Focus:
    His work integrates behavioral neuroscience, molecular biology, genetics, and technology (e.g., wearable devices), illustrating a forward-looking and solution-oriented approach.

🛠️ Areas for Improvement:

  • Citation Impact (h-index):
    While his Scopus h-index (7) reflects a solid foundation, increased international visibility and broader citation engagement can elevate his standing among global peers.

  • Expanded Global Outreach:
    More international speaking engagements, global consortia leadership, and multi-center trials could further boost Dr. Meng’s influence and accelerate translation of his work.

🎓 Education:

Dr. Hongrui Meng earned his Ph.D. in Behavioral Neuroscience from Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Japan. His doctoral research focused on neurobiological pathways implicated in behavioral disorders and neurodegenerative processes. Following this, he underwent rigorous postdoctoral training at Juntendo University in Tokyo, where he specialized in molecular neurobiology and human genetics. His interdisciplinary education and training provided him with a strong foundation in genetic, molecular, and cellular neuroscience, particularly as they relate to Parkinson’s disease and ALS. His academic journey was shaped by prestigious institutions known for cutting-edge neuroscience research and helped develop his expertise in mitochondrial dysfunction and protein aggregation mechanisms. Dr. Meng has continued to expand his knowledge through professional development and active engagement with academic societies in both China and Japan. His educational background has prepared him well to lead impactful, translational research in neurodegenerative disease therapy and drug discovery.

🧪 Experience:

Dr. Meng began his academic career in Japan, first as a doctoral researcher and later as a postdoctoral fellow focusing on molecular neurobiology and neurogenetics. He was appointed assistant professor in the Department of Research for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Dementia at Juntendo University. In 2020, he joined the Institute of Neuroscience at Soochow University as a full professor, where he established and currently leads the Laboratory of Molecular Neurology. Over his career, Dr. Meng has managed multiple international and national research projects supported by agencies such as the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science and the Natural Science Foundation of China. His projects span from fundamental mitochondrial research to applied wearable technologies for Parkinson’s monitoring. With over 12 years of research and academic leadership, he also provides consultancy to pharmaceutical companies and reviews for educational institutions. His international experience has made him a key contributor to the neurodegeneration research field.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Meng’s research focuses on uncovering the cellular and molecular mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson’s disease and ALS. His lab investigates how mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to protein aggregation and neuronal death, with an emphasis on α-synuclein and CHCHD2-related pathways. Using transgenic Drosophila and rodent models, Dr. Meng’s work has identified key genetic mutations and stress response pathways, such as the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (mtUPR), that drive disease progression. His research also extends to glial cell biology, neuroinflammation, and the neuroimmune system’s role in maintaining neuronal integrity. Moreover, he is pioneering in drug discovery, developing plant-derived compounds and wearable technology for disease monitoring. His lab is currently involved in translational research, bridging basic molecular findings with therapeutic applications. Dr. Meng’s studies are multidisciplinary, combining genetics, molecular biology, imaging, and behavioral neuroscience, aiming to transform discoveries into real-world interventions for neurodegenerative conditions.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  1. 🧬 Dicer Is Involved in Cytotoxicity and Motor Impairment Induced by TBPH Deficiency – Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 2025

  2. 🧠 Alpha-Synucleinopathy Disrupts Microglial Homeostasis in Parkinson’s Disease – Cell Communication and Signaling, 2024

  3. 🧪 Transcriptomic Analysis of Lipid Metabolism Genes in Alzheimer’s Disease – Journal of Molecular Neuroscience, 2024

  4. 🔬 CHCHD2 Mutation Alters Ca2+ Homeostasis in ALS – PNAS Nexus, 2024

  5. 🧫 A Simple Technique to Assay Locomotor Activity in Drosophila – Journal of Visualized Experiments, 2023

  6. 🧍‍♂️ MHCI Deficiency Induces ADHD-like Symptoms – Brain Behavior and Immunity, 2021

  7. 🧠 Twin CHCH Proteins in Parkinson’s and ALS – International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2019

  8. 🧪 CHCHD2 Mutations Cause Alpha-Synuclein Aggregation – Human Molecular Genetics, 2019

  9. 🧬 Monitoring Mitochondrial Changes via Pink1-Parkin Signaling in Drosophila – Methods in Molecular Biology, 2018

  10. 🧪 Loss of CHCHD2 Affects Mitochondrial Cristae and Cytochrome C – Nature Communications, 20

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Hongrui Meng exemplifies the qualities of a top-tier neuroscientist: innovation, academic rigor, leadership, and translational vision. His multidisciplinary work contributes directly to unmet clinical needs in Parkinson’s and ALS, backed by strong research funding, publications, and patent activities.