Jerzy A. Lis | RNA Biology Function | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Jerzy A. Lis | RNA Biology Function | Research Excellence Award

Univeristy of Opole, Institute of Biology | Poland

A senior academic biologist with extensive expertise in zoology, genetics, and evolutionary biology, specializing in the morphology, taxonomy, and phylogeny of true bugs (Heteroptera). His research integrates classical taxonomy with modern molecular approaches, including ribosomal DNA analysis, molecular phylogeny, phylogeography, and rRNA secondary and tertiary structure prediction. He has led and participated in multiple internationally funded research projects focused on the systematics and evolution of Cydnidae across the Old World, Australian, and Oriental regions, supported by European and international scientific agencies. With long-standing academic experience, he has contributed significantly to higher education through teaching advanced courses in bioinformatics, molecular biology, genetics, molecular evolution, and phylogenetic reconstruction. His work has advanced the understanding of insect biodiversity, evolutionary relationships, and classification, particularly within European and global Heteroptera faunistics, combining museum-based research with modern computational and molecular methodologies.

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Featured Publications

Ioan Tomuta | Genetic Material | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Ioan Tomuta | Genetic Material | Research Excellence Award

University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iuliu Hatieganu Cluj-Napoca | Romania

Ioan Tomuță is a leading researcher in pharmaceutical technology with extensive expertise in the design, development, and optimization of modern dosage forms. His work focuses on understanding the physicochemical and mechanical properties of active substances and excipients, their processing behavior, and their influence on drug release kinetics and bioavailability. He has made significant contributions to advanced drug delivery systems, including liposomes, nanoparticles, polymeric films, and gastroretentive drug delivery platforms produced through 3D printing. His research also advances the use of NIR spectroscopy, chemometrics, and Quality-by-Design principles for pharmaceutical development and process analytical control. He has played key roles in national and European research projects involving process engineering, tissue regeneration technologies, and artificial intelligence–based prediction tools for 3D-printable medicines. His work spans formulation science, process optimization, GMP-oriented industrial applications, and innovation in personalized medicine manufacturing technologies.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications: 

Savencu, I., Iurian, S., Porfire, A., Bogdan, C., & Tomuță, I. (2021). Review of advances in polymeric wound dressing films. Reactive and Functional Polymers, 168, 105059.

Ilyés, K., Kovács, N. K., Balogh, A., Borbás, E., Farkas, B., Casian, T., Marosi, G., … & Tomuță, I. (2019). The applicability of pharmaceutical polymeric blends for the fused deposition modelling (FDM) 3D technique: Material considerations, printability, process modulation, with particular interest in additive manufacturing applications. European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 129, 110–123.

Tefas, L. R., Sylvester, B., Tomuță, I., Sesarman, A., Licarete, E., Banciu, M., … & Porfire, A. (2017). Development of antiproliferative long-circulating liposomes co-encapsulating doxorubicin and curcumin through the use of a quality-by-design approach. Drug Design, Development and Therapy, 1605–1621.

Tefas, L. R., Tomuță, I., Achim, M., & Vlase, L. (2015). Development and optimization of quercetin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles by experimental design. Clujul Medical, 88(2), 214.

Barbalata, C. I., Tefas, L. R., Achim, M., Tomuță, I., & Porfire, A. S. (2020). Statins in risk-reduction and treatment of cancer. World Journal of Clinical Oncology, 11(8), 573.

Bogdan, C., Iurian, S., Tomuță, I., & Moldovan, M. (2017). Improvement of skin condition in striae distensae: Development, characterization and clinical efficacy of a cosmetic product containing Punica granatum seed oil and Croton lechleri resin extract. Drug Design, Development and Therapy, 521–531.

Rusu, M. E., Gheldiu, A. M., Mocan, A., Moldovan, C., Popa, D. S., Tomuță, I., … & Vlase, L. (2018). Process optimization for improved phenolic compounds recovery from walnut (Juglans regia L.) septum: Phytochemical profile and biological activities. Molecules, 23(11), 2814.

Colobatiu, L., Gavan, A., Potarniche, A. V., Rus, V., Diaconeasa, Z., Mocan, A., … & Tomuță, I. (2019). Evaluation of bioactive compounds-loaded chitosan films as a novel and potential diabetic wound dressing material. Reactive and Functional Polymers, 145, 104369.

Rusu, M. E., Fizeșan, I., Pop, A., Gheldiu, A. M., Mocan, A., Crișan, G., Vlase, L., … & Tomuță, I. (2019). Enhanced recovery of antioxidant compounds from hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) involucre based on extraction optimization: Phytochemical profile and antioxidant activity. Antioxidants, 8(10), 460

Sirish Kumar Palle | RNA Biology Function | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sirish Kumar Palle | RNA Biology Function | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sirish Kumar Palle | Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center | United States

Dr. Sirish Kumar Palle, MBBS, MD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine. Specializing in Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, he combines clinical expertise with innovative research. With a strong focus on liver diseases in children, Dr. Palle is dedicated to advancing understanding and treatment of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), pediatric autoimmune liver disorders, and cystic fibrosis liver disease. His multidisciplinary approach integrates clinical care and translational research, aiming to improve outcomes for pediatric patients. Dr. Palle is a respected educator and clinician-educator, actively involved in mentoring emerging researchers and contributing extensively to peer-reviewed literature. His work has garnered national recognition through travel awards and presentations at major symposia. Passionate about bridging bench-to-bedside discoveries, Dr. Palle’s contributions have significantly impacted pediatric hepatology research and care standards.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

Education:

Dr. Sirish Kumar Palle earned his MBBS and MD degrees, followed by specialty training in Pediatrics through the Royal College of Pediatrics & Child Health, United Kingdom. He further advanced his clinical skills during his residency at the University of South Alabama’s Department of Pediatrics. Committed to subspecialty expertise, Dr. Palle completed a prestigious fellowship in Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition at Emory University, Atlanta. This extensive postgraduate training equipped him with advanced knowledge in pediatric liver and gastrointestinal disorders, nutrition, and hepatobiliary diseases. His formal education combined international perspectives, rigorous clinical training, and cutting-edge research methodologies, laying a robust foundation for his academic and clinical career in pediatric gastroenterology and hepatology.

Experience:

Dr. Palle serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Oklahoma, where he is a clinician-educator specializing in pediatric gastroenterology and hepatology. His clinical experience includes managing complex pediatric liver diseases such as MASLD, autoimmune hepatitis, and cystic fibrosis-related liver complications. He practices at OU Children’s Physicians, providing expert care to children with chronic liver and pancreatic disorders. Dr. Palle’s research experience spans translational studies on novel serum biomarkers, clinical risk classification, and therapeutic interventions for pediatric liver diseases. He actively participates in national and international collaborations and serves as a mentor for junior researchers and medical trainees. Dr. Palle has presented at numerous professional symposia and contributed extensively to peer-reviewed journals. His role blends clinical practice, research, and education, emphasizing improved diagnostic and treatment strategies in pediatric hepatology.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Palle has received multiple prestigious awards recognizing his contributions to pediatric hepatology research. Notably, he earned the Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center Travel  for his work presented at the Pediatric Autoimmune Liver Disease Symposium. Additionally, he was honored with the Frontiers in Pediatric Pancreatology  from NASPGHAN, reflecting his impact in pancreatic and liver research. His ongoing research efforts and clinical expertise have gained national and international recognition. These awards highlight his commitment to advancing pediatric liver disease understanding and treatment. Dr. Palle’s scholarly impact is further validated by his authorship of numerous influential publications and active participation in multi-center studies. His dedication to research excellence and mentorship continues to foster innovation in pediatric gastroenterology.

Research Focus:

Dr. Palle’s research primarily focuses on pediatric liver diseases, with special emphasis on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), autoimmune liver disorders, and cystic fibrosis-related liver complications. His work explores novel serum biomarkers for liver health assessment and the pathophysiology of pediatric liver diseases. He investigates clinical risk stratification models and therapeutic interventions to improve patient outcomes. His translational research bridges molecular mechanisms and clinical applications, contributing to early diagnosis, disease monitoring, and treatment strategies. Dr. Palle also studies lipid metabolism and inflammatory pathways in pediatric liver disease progression. Through collaboration in large, real-world cohorts and clinical trials, he contributes to refining disease nomenclature and improving consensus definitions. His research has enhanced understanding of pediatric hepatology and informed clinical guidelines. Dr. Palle is committed to integrating innovative scientific discoveries into clinical practice, improving the quality of care for children with liver diseases worldwide.

Publications Top Notes: 

  1.  A Comparison of Novel Serum Markers of Liver Health in Adolescents With Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease

  2.  Oxidized HDL and LDL in Adolescents with Obesity and Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease

  3.  Serum Adropin is Unaltered in Adolescents with Histology-Confirmed Steatotic Liver Disease

  4.  Concordance of MASLD and NAFLD Nomenclature in Youth in the TARGET-NASH Real-World Cohort

  5.  Gly-β-MCA as a Potent Anti-Cholestasis Agent in Mice with Biliary Injury

  6.  Advanced Cystic Fibrosis Liver Disease: Endovascular, Endoscopic, Radiologic, and Surgical Considerations

  7.  Validation of a Clinical Risk-Based Classification System in a Large NAFLD Cohort

  8.  Postprandial Triglycerides and FGF19 as Potential Screening Tools for Pediatric NAFLD

  9.  Pediatric Autoimmune Pancreatitis: A Single-Center Retrospective Case Series

  10.  Gastric Duplication Cyst Case Study in Pediatrics

Conclusion:

Overall, Dr. Sirish Kumar Palle is a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on his substantial and focused contributions to pediatric hepatology research, demonstrated by a strong publication record, leadership in clinical research, and recognition by peer institutions. His work is characterized by clinical relevance and scientific rigor, addressing significant pediatric health issues with an emphasis on liver disease. With targeted enhancements such as increased grant acquisition, broader interdisciplinary collaborations, and further professional visibility, Dr. Palle’s already distinguished research career can achieve even greater impact and recognition. Nonetheless, as it stands, he exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated, productive, and impactful clinician-scientist deserving of such an honor.

Weili Miao | RNA biology | Best Researcher Award

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.

Jacques Demongeot | RNA Biology Function | Best Academic Researcher Award

Prof. Jacques Demongeot | RNA Biology Function | Best Academic Researcher Award

Prof. Jacques Demongeot, University Grenoble Alpes, France

Prof. Jacques Demongeot is a renowned French academic with an exceptional career blending applied mathematics and medical science. As an Honorary Member of the Institut Universitaire de France, he has held influential positions including President of the European Society for Mathematical and Theoretical Biology and the Société Francophone de Biologie Théorique. He is affiliated with University Joseph Fourier in Grenoble and the AGEIS Laboratory, focusing on biomedical informatics, theoretical biology, and smart healthcare technologies. Prof. Demongeot’s work is highly interdisciplinary, bridging mathematics, biology, and clinical applications. Over the decades, he has significantly contributed to areas such as health smart homes, predictive modeling, and Boolean networks, with a prolific record of peer-reviewed publications and international collaborations. His research is not only deeply theoretical but also highly impactful for public health systems and patient care. His influence spans across generations of researchers and across continents, cementing his legacy as a transformative scholar.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

  1. 🎓 Interdisciplinary Excellence:
    Prof. Demongeot uniquely holds a Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics and an M.D. in Medicine, positioning him as a rare and influential figure in computational medicine and mathematical biology.

  2. 📚 Outstanding Publication Record:
    With hundreds of peer-reviewed publications in prestigious journals, his research spans from health informatics to genetic modeling and non-linear systems—highlighting both depth and breadth.

  3. 🌍 International Recognition and Collaboration:
    Former President of major scientific boards such as the European Society for Mathematical and Theoretical Biology, his leadership has shaped research agendas globally.

  4. 🏥 Innovation in Smart Health & Telemedicine:
    He has contributed significantly to the development of smart home technologies and e-health systems for elderly care—translating science into societal impact.

  5. 🧠 Theoretical Contributions with Practical Value:
    His work integrates modeling, biological systems theory, and real-world medical applications, especially in chronic disease management and health monitoring systems.

🛠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. 📢 Broader Public Engagement:
    While his academic influence is undisputed, increasing visibility through public science communication and media outreach could expand the societal resonance of his work.

  2. 👨‍🏫 Mentorship Visibility:
    More explicit focus on his role as a mentor and research supervisor (e.g., Ph.D. students trained, junior faculty supported) would highlight his contribution to academic continuity.

  3. 🌐 Centralized Digital Presence:
    A consolidated digital portfolio (website or research repository) could enhance accessibility to his full body of work for interdisciplinary audiences and policy-makers.

🎓 Education:

Jacques Demongeot’s educational background reflects his deep-rooted expertise in both mathematical theory and clinical science. He earned his Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics in 1975 from the University Joseph Fourier of Grenoble, where he specialized in mathematical modeling and systems theory. Demonstrating his dual commitment to both scientific rigor and human health, he completed his Doctorate in Medicine (M.D.) in 1978 from the same institution. This rare combination of qualifications provided him with the analytical tools of a mathematician and the practical understanding of a medical doctor. It positioned him uniquely to pioneer interdisciplinary approaches in systems biology, bioinformatics, and smart health systems. His educational achievements laid the foundation for a long and impactful career bridging numerical theory and real-world healthcare challenges. This dual expertise has enabled him to lead innovative research in diverse domains, from wound healing modeling to the design of telemedicine tools and aging-related medical support technologies.

💼 Experience:

Prof. Jacques Demongeot’s professional career spans over four decades of academic excellence, leadership, and innovation. As a professor at the Faculty of Medicine at the University J. Fourier of Grenoble, he has led pioneering research in mathematical biology and biomedical engineering. He served as President of CIMES (1994–1998), President of the French CNU 46-04 (1994–2000), and President of the European Society for Mathematical and Theoretical Biology (1998–2000). Additionally, he was President of the Société Francophone de Biologie Théorique from 2006 to 2014. He has played pivotal roles in establishing research programs in smart homes for elderly care, medical imaging technologies, and non-linear biological systems modeling. Prof. Demongeot has also contributed to international journals, research boards, and multi-national scientific initiatives. His career combines deep theoretical insight with hands-on application and societal impact, marking him as a rare blend of thought leader, mentor, and innovator.

🔬 Research Focus:

Prof. Jacques Demongeot’s research focuses on mathematical and theoretical biology, with extensive work in functional statistics, telemedicine, health smart homes, genetic code modeling, and Boolean automata networks. His work bridges the gap between abstract modeling and applied biomedical engineering. He has designed predictive models for chronic diseases, including diabetes and obesity, and has contributed to understanding biological regulation, cell differentiation, and wound healing through discrete mesh and morphogenetic modeling. He also investigates social and network-based approaches to frailty and aging. Additionally, Prof. Demongeot has led the development of sensor networks and telemedicine platforms for home-based patient monitoring. His research often uses non-linear systems, stochastic modeling, and functional data analysis, making significant contributions to both clinical and public health informatics. His integrative approach connects human physiology, healthcare infrastructure, and computational biology—enabling a holistic understanding of health across biological, social, and technological domains.

📚 Publications Top Notes: 

1️⃣ 📊 Relative-Error Prediction in Nonparametric Functional Statistics: Theory and Practice
2️⃣ 📉 Estimation locale linéaire de la fonction de régression pour des variables hilbertiennes
3️⃣ 🧠 Global Regulation of Individual Decision Making
4️⃣ 🖼️ Comparison of the Evolution and Entropy of Responses on an Absurdum Questionnaire
5️⃣ 🏠 Smart homes: data fusion for preventive and therapy education at home
6️⃣ 🧬 Poitiers school of mathematical and theoretical biology: RNA structures and genetic code
7️⃣ 🦓 Wound healing modelling in Zebrafish
8️⃣ 🌱 Discrete mesh approach in morphogenesis: the example of gastrulation
9️⃣ 📈 Local linear regression modelization when all variables are curves
🔟 👴 Estimation of life expectancy of cancer patients in Valparaiso Region

🏁 Conclusion:

Prof. Jacques Demongeot is exceptionally well-qualified for the Best Academic Researcher Award. His interdisciplinary achievements, pioneering contributions to biomedical engineering and mathematical biology, and global academic leadership make him a model candidate. His body of work demonstrates a seamless blend of theoretical innovation and real-world medical application—impacting both science and society. With enhanced visibility and strategic outreach, his influence could become even more profound across generations and disciplines.

Weili Miao | RNA biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Weili Miao | RNA biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Weili Miao , Stanford , United States

Weili Miao is an accomplished postdoctoral researcher at Stanford University specializing in molecular biology and biochemistry. He obtained his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of California, Riverside in 2019 and holds a B.S. in Chemistry from Fudan University, China. Miao’s research integrates biochemistry, proteomics, and genomics to explore novel biomolecular interactions in the context of epidermal differentiation, RNA-protein interactions, and DNA-protein interactions. His work has significantly contributed to the understanding of glucose’s role in cellular regulation, as well as in uncovering new molecular mechanisms related to gene expression and differentiation. Miao has published extensively in high-impact journals and has received recognition for his contributions to the field of molecular biology, particularly regarding glucose-protein interactions and RNA regulation.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

Weili Miao is an exceptional candidate for the “Best Researcher Award” due to his groundbreaking contributions to the field of molecular biology. His research has provided crucial insights into biomolecular interactions, particularly in the context of glucose-protein, RNA-protein, and DNA-protein interactions. His postdoctoral research at Stanford University has led to the discovery of novel roles for glucose in regulating epidermal differentiation, including glucose’s interaction with key proteins like DDX21, DDX50, and NSUN2. Miao’s ability to integrate advanced techniques like MST, easy-CLIP, and PROBER into his work shows his innovative approach to solving complex biological questions. His prolific publication record in top-tier journals, such as Cell, Nature Communications, and Cell Reports, further highlights his ability to make significant contributions to molecular biology.

Areas for Improvements:

While Miao’s research focus has been diverse and impactful, one area for improvement could be to expand his studies to include more clinical or translational applications. This would enable his findings to have more direct implications for disease treatment or therapeutic interventions. Additionally, increasing his collaboration with clinical researchers and expanding his research network could help bring practical solutions to real-world problems.

Education:

Weili Miao holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of California, Riverside, where he completed his doctoral research in 2019. During his time at UCR, he honed his skills in chemical biology, proteomics, and molecular research. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Fudan University, one of China’s leading universities, where he developed a solid foundation in chemical analysis and molecular science. Miao’s education has equipped him with advanced research techniques in proteomics, molecular signaling, and biomolecular interactions, which he continues to apply in his postdoctoral work at Stanford University. His ability to combine cutting-edge technologies and experimental methodologies has enabled him to explore complex biological systems, making him a strong contributor to his research community.

Experience:

Weili Miao’s research experience spans several years, with a focus on biomolecular interactions and their implications in cellular differentiation and gene expression. He is currently a postdoctoral researcher at Stanford University, where he investigates novel functions of glucose-protein, RNA-protein, and DNA-protein interactions. His work has led to breakthroughs in understanding how glucose regulates protein interactions that influence epidermal differentiation. Miao has utilized various advanced technologies such as microscale thermophoresis (MST), easy-CLIP, and PROBER to study protein-RNA and protein-DNA interactions. Prior to his postdoctoral position, he completed a Ph.D. at UC Riverside, where he explored targeted proteomic approaches and studied the AMP-binding capacities of kinases. Miao has also contributed to multiple publications in high-impact journals, showcasing his ability to lead and collaborate on groundbreaking research projects. His work continues to shape the understanding of molecular processes in cellular biology.

Awards and Honors:

Weili Miao has received several prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding research contributions. He was awarded the K01 NIH Mentored Research Scientist Development Award in 2024, supporting his work as a principal investigator in the next phase of his research career. Additionally, Miao received the UCR Dissertation Year Program Fellowship in 2018-2019, which allowed him to complete his doctoral studies with distinguished achievement. In 2019, he was recognized with the Award for Chinese Outstanding Self-financed Students Abroad, which acknowledges exceptional academic and research accomplishments. These honors highlight Miao’s dedication to advancing the field of molecular biology and his exceptional ability to tackle complex scientific challenges. His recognition by these prestigious institutions underscores his potential to continue making significant contributions to biomedical research.

Research Focus:

Weili Miao’s research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying cellular differentiation, gene expression, and interactions between biomolecules such as glucose, RNA, and DNA. At Stanford University, Miao’s postdoctoral work has identified novel functions of glucose-protein interactions, particularly how glucose binds proteins like DDX21, DDX50, and NSUN2 to regulate epidermal differentiation. His research also incorporates cutting-edge methods such as microscale thermophoresis (MST) to analyze protein interactions, easy-CLIP for RNA-protein interactions, and PROBER for DNA-protein interactions. Miao’s work is significant for its potential impact on therapeutic strategies for diseases related to gene expression and cellular differentiation. His multidisciplinary approach integrates proteomics, genomics, and biochemistry to explore how cellular processes are regulated at the molecular level, with the goal of identifying new molecular targets for disease intervention and improving our understanding of human biology.

Publication Top Notes:

  1. “Disease-Linked Regulatory DNA Variants and Homeostatic Transcription Factors in Epidermis” 🔬💉 (Nat. Commun., under revision)
  2. “DDX50 cooperates with STAU1 to effect stabilization of pro-differentiation RNAs” 🧬⚡ (Cell Rep., 2025)
  3. “Glucose binds and activates NSUN2 to promote translation and epidermal differentiation” 🍬💪 (Nucleic Acids Res., 2024)
  4. “Glucose dissociates DDX21 dimers to regulate mRNA splicing and tissue differentiation” 🍩🔧 (Cell, 2023)
  5. “Targeted Proteomic Approaches for Proteome-wide Characterizations of the AMP-binding Capacities of Kinases” 🧪🧬 (J. Proteome Res., 2022)
  6. “Quantitative Proteomic Analysis Revealed Broad Roles of N6-Methyladenosine in Heat Shock Response” 🔬🔥 (J. Proteome Res., 2021)
  7. “Kinome Reprogramming During Radiation Resistance Acquisition in Breast Cancer Cells” 🧪💥 (J. Proteome Res., 2021)
  8. “SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 Spike variants bind human ACE2 with increased affinity” 🦠🔬 (Lancet Infect. Dis., 2021)
  9. “A Targeted Quantitative Proteomic Method Revealed Substantial Reprogramming of Kinome during Melanoma Metastasis” 🧬🌱 (Sci. Rep., 2020)

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Weili Miao is an exemplary researcher whose work continues to shape our understanding of cellular biology at a molecular level. His dedication to uncovering novel molecular mechanisms, as well as his use of cutting-edge technologies, positions him as a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With continued innovation and a broader focus on clinical translation, Miao’s work is poised to make a lasting impact on both the scientific community and therapeutic fields.