Mengting liu | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mengting liu | Cell Structure Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mengting liu, Xi’an Jiaotong University, China

Dr. Mengting Liu is an Associate Professor and Master’s Supervisor at the School of Electrical Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University. A promising scholar in advanced battery materials, she has made significant contributions to lithium-sulfur, sodium-ion, and zinc-based battery technologies. Dr. Liu holds a Ph.D. in Condensed Matter Physics from Lanzhou University and completed joint doctoral training at the Georgia Institute of Technology, under the mentorship of Prof. Gleb Yushin. As the principal investigator of several high-profile national projects, her work centers around electrolyte design, interfacial chemistry, and cathode material innovation. Dr. Liu has authored over 50 SCI papers in top-tier journals and holds more than 30 patents, reflecting her innovative contributions to electrochemical energy storage. With an H-index of 24 and successful technological transformations, she stands out as a leading young researcher shaping the future of sustainable energy materials in China and globally.

Publication Profile: 

scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. High-Impact Publications

    • Over 50 SCI-indexed papers in world-renowned journals such as J. Am. Chem. Soc., Advanced Materials, Energy & Environmental Science, and Nano Energy.

    • Numerous first-author and corresponding-author contributions, showcasing leadership in research.

  2. Innovation in Battery Technology

    • Pioneer in sodium-ion, lithium-sulfur, and zinc-ion battery materials, particularly focusing on interfacial engineering and electrolyte design.

    • Leads cutting-edge research in cold-environment batteries and high-voltage cathodes.

  3. Recognition and Funding

    • Principal Investigator of multiple National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) projects.

    • Successfully translated 3 technologies into industrial application – indicating practical impact.

  4. Patent and Intellectual Property

    • 30+ patents applied/granted, reflecting a commitment to innovation and intellectual property creation.

  5. Academic Metrics

    • H-index: 24, indicating solid citation impact and relevance in the field.

  6. International Exposure

    • Conducted joint Ph.D. research at Georgia Institute of Technology, under the mentorship of global battery expert Prof. Gleb Yushin.

  7. Mentorship and Leadership

    • Serves as Master’s Supervisor, contributing to the training of the next generation of researchers.

🔧 Areas for Improvement:

  1. Public and Global Recognition

    • While the academic output is outstanding, broader international visibility (e.g., keynote speeches, global consortia participation) could strengthen recognition.

  2. Cross-disciplinary Expansion

    • Exploring AI-driven materials discovery or solid-state battery systems could further diversify her portfolio and enhance future relevance.

  3. Team Expansion and Postdoctoral Supervision

    • Expanding mentorship to include postdoctoral researchers and international collaborators could amplify research output and impact.

📚 Education:

Dr. Mengting Liu earned her Ph.D. in Condensed Matter Physics from Lanzhou University (2015–2021), focusing on electrochemical materials and battery interface design. During her doctoral studies, she was awarded a prestigious national scholarship for joint training at the Georgia Institute of Technology (2018–2020), where she conducted cutting-edge research in the School of Materials Science and Engineering under Prof. Gleb Yushin. Her work there focused on advanced cathode materials for sodium-ion and lithium-sulfur batteries, combining material design, characterization, and performance optimization. Her academic foundation is grounded in interdisciplinary training, bridging physics, chemistry, and materials science. Her research was pivotal in understanding phase transitions, solid–electrolyte interfaces, and novel electrolyte systems, which has set the stage for her postdoctoral and faculty research directions in energy storage. Her academic path reflects a strong alignment with innovation in clean energy technologies and fundamental materials science.

🧪 Experience:

Since November 2021, Dr. Mengting Liu has served as an Assistant Professor (Qingxiao Program A) at Xi’an Jiaotong University’s School of Electrical Engineering. She is actively involved in supervising graduate students and leading independent research in electrochemical energy storage. Prior to this role, she spent over two years at the Georgia Institute of Technology during her doctoral studies, collaborating with international experts and engaging in high-impact research. She has led several major research projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, focusing on electrolyte structure regulation and cathode performance optimization. Her industrial collaborations have led to three technological transformations and over 30 patents. Dr. Liu’s interdisciplinary background and international exposure have enabled her to contribute extensively to frontier research in lithium-ion, lithium-sulfur, and sodium-ion battery technologies. Her teaching and mentoring roles complement her research, contributing to talent development in the energy storage field.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Mengting Liu’s research is centered on electrochemical energy storage, with a particular focus on sodium-ion, lithium-sulfur, and lithium-ion batteries. Her work involves the design of high-performance cathode materials, such as layered oxides and composite structures, and the development of nonflammable, stable electrolytes that enable long-life and high-temperature battery operation. She is especially recognized for her studies on interfacial engineering, including cathode-electrolyte interphases (CEI) and solid electrolyte interphases (SEI), which are critical to battery safety and longevity. Her recent research expands into entropy-regulated materials and polymer electrolytes to tackle extreme environmental conditions like ultra-low temperatures. With a holistic approach combining material synthesis, mechanism analysis, and performance validation, Dr. Liu aims to develop next-generation batteries with high energy density, long cycle life, and environmental adaptability. Her research is not only academically impactful but also industrially relevant, bridging fundamental science with practical innovation.

📄 Publication Top Notes: 

  1. 🧯 Cation−Anion Regulation in Flame-Retardant Electrolytes for Safe Na-Ion Batteries – J. Am. Chem. Soc. (2025)

  2. 🔥 Nonflammable Sulfone-Based Electrolytes for High-Temp LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 – ACS Energy Lett. (2024)

  3. ❄️ Inorganic-Rich Interphases via Nonflammable Electrolytes for Low-Temp LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 – Adv. Funct. Mater. (2024)

  4. ⚡ Tailoring Cathode–Electrolyte Interface for High-Power Lithium–Sulfur Batteries – Nano-Micro Lett. (2025)

  5. 🔋 Wadsley–Roth Structure Engineering for High-Power Li-Ion Batteries – Energy Environ. Sci. (2024)

  6. 🔄 Biphaseto-Monophase Transition in Na0.766+xLixNi0.33-xMn0.5Fe0.1Ti0.07O2 – Carbon Energy (2024)

  7. 🛡️ Zn-Ion Channels with Double-Network Layer for Stable Zinc Anodes – Energy Storage Mater. (2024)

  8. 🔗 In-Situ Polymerized Ether Gel Electrolyte for High-Voltage Li-Metal Batteries – Adv. Funct. Mater. (2024)

  9. 🔧 Reinforced Bimetal Oxide-Based PEO Electrolytes for Stable Interfaces – Adv. Funct. Mater. (2025)

  10. ♻️ Phase-Stable and Air-Stable O3-Type Entropy-Reinforced Na Cathodes – Nano Energy (2025)

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Mengting Liu is exceptionally well-qualified for the Best Researcher Award. Her track record reflects a rare blend of deep theoretical knowledge, experimental expertise, and real-world application in the fast-evolving field of energy storage.

With a robust publication portfolio, a leadership role in nationally-funded projects, multiple technological transformations, and strong international training, she has already demonstrated leadership and innovation that align perfectly with the purpose of the award.

Zhijie Chang | Extracellular Vesicles | Cell Communication Award

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Prof. Zhijie Chang | Extracellular Vesicles | Cell Communication Award

Prof. Zhijie Chang, Tsinghua University, China

Professor Zhijie Chang is a distinguished molecular biologist and tenured professor at the School of Medicine and School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing. His research spans cancer signaling pathways, extracellular vesicle-mediated communication, and stem cell therapy, especially in lung diseases and tumor biology. A seasoned scholar, Dr. Chang earned his Ph.D. in Animal Genetics and Breeding before undertaking postdoctoral training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. He is currently a respected editor of FEBS Letters and a leader in molecular oncology in China. His recent works highlight the role of CREPT, Smad signaling, and macrophage modulation in cancer and fibrosis. Through decades of academic and translational research, he has significantly advanced our understanding of cell communication in disease contexts. With an extensive publication record in top journals, Dr. Chang remains a leading figure in Asia’s biomedical research landscape.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Pioneering Contributions in Cell Communication
    Prof. Chang’s research on CREPT, Smad proteins, NF-κB/Nrf2, and BMP signaling has directly advanced the understanding of how intracellular and intercellular communication impacts disease progression, especially in cancer and pulmonary disorders.

  2. High-Impact Publications
    He has numerous peer-reviewed articles in prestigious journals such as Nature Communications, Molecular Cancer, Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy, and Journal of Biological Chemistry, many of which explore molecular and cellular communication in cancer and tissue repair.

  3. Translational Focus
    His integration of mesenchymal stem cell therapy, extracellular vesicles, and gene therapy reflects a strong translational approach, applying basic science to therapeutic innovations—a critical criterion for this award.

  4. Scientific Leadership and Mentorship
    As a tenured professor at Tsinghua University and editor at FEBS Letters, Prof. Chang is a leader in biomedical research and scientific dissemination, actively contributing to academic growth and mentorship.

⚠️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. More Global Recognition
    While well-known in Chinese biomedical circles and respected internationally through publications, increased involvement in global consortia or leadership in international collaborations would further solidify his global scientific footprint.

  2. Public/Community Science Engagement
    Enhancing visibility through public lectures, science communication platforms, or policy advisory roles could broaden the societal impact of his work.

  3. Data-Sharing and Open Science Practices
    Encouraging or highlighting open-access datasets, repositories, or reproducible workflows would align with best practices in modern cell communication research.

🎓 Education:

Professor Zhijie Chang began his academic journey at Northwestern Agricultural University in Yangling, China, where he earned his B.Sc. (1978–1982) in Animal Science. He then continued at the same institution to obtain a combined M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Animal Genetics and Breeding from 1982 to 1989. His graduate research laid the foundation for his future in molecular biology, signaling studies, and genetics. Seeking international exposure and advanced training, he undertook postdoctoral research from March 1997 to October 1998 at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, USA, in the Department of Pathology. There, he specialized in the BMP signaling pathway, gaining expertise in molecular signaling processes critical to cell communication. This blend of domestic and international education has equipped Dr. Chang with both the technical rigor and global perspective needed to pioneer breakthroughs in biomedical science.

💼 Professional Experience:

Professor Zhijie Chang has held a full professorship at Tsinghua University’s School of Medicine since June 2005, where he investigates cancer-related signaling mechanisms. Before this, he completed postdoctoral research at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, focusing on BMP signaling, which strengthened his understanding of developmental and pathological cell signaling. Over the years, he has built a highly productive research lab, contributed extensively to translational medicine, and trained numerous doctoral and postdoctoral researchers. As an editor of FEBS Letters, he also contributes to scientific publishing and peer-review processes. His roles across academia, research, and editorial boards mark him as a multifaceted scientist whose work bridges laboratory insights and therapeutic applications. His collaborative style and consistent research funding reflect his leadership and innovation in molecular oncology and regenerative medicine.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Professor Zhijie Chang has been recognized multiple times by the Chinese Cell Biology Society for his high-impact publications. In 2003, he received the First Merit Paper Award for his groundbreaking research on hSef-mediated MAPK signaling inhibition in J. Biol. Chem. In 2005, he earned the Third Merit Paper Award for his study on CHIP-mediated degradation of Smad proteins, published in Mol. Cell. Biol.. These awards underscore his early and sustained contributions to deciphering molecular signaling pathways involved in cell communication, differentiation, and oncogenesis. His recent recognitions include publications in top-tier journals like Nature Communications, Molecular Cancer, and Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy, indicating the continued relevance and innovation of his work. His role as an editor for FEBS Letters further highlights his stature in the field and dedication to advancing cell biology research at national and international levels.

🔬 Research Focus:

Dr. Zhijie Chang’s research primarily investigates cellular communication in cancer and inflammatory diseases, with a focus on CREPT, Smad proteins, and extracellular vesicles. His work dissects how tumor-derived signals modulate the tumor microenvironment, metastasis, and immune cell behavior. He has made critical discoveries regarding the role of CREPT in chromatin looping and transcriptional regulation, especially in triple-negative breast cancer. In pulmonary fibrosis models, he has shown how umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) modulate macrophage activity via secreted vesicles. Another major area is his exploration of Smurf1, PDK1–Akt, and JAK/STAT3 signaling axes, targeting them for therapeutic intervention in various cancers. His translational approach integrates gene therapy, stem cell-based treatments, and protein signaling studies, bridging basic and clinical sciences. Through collaborative and interdisciplinary methods, Dr. Chang contributes valuable insights into how cells communicate and respond in disease settings.

📚 Publication Top Notes:

  1. 📘 CREPT is required for the metastasis of triple-negative breast cancer through a co-operational-chromatin loop-based gene regulation

  2. 🧪 Clinical investigation on nebulized human umbilical cord MSC-derived extracellular vesicles for pulmonary fibrosis treatment

  3. 🧬 Gene Therapy with Enterovirus 3C Protease: A Promising Strategy for Various Solid Tumors

  4. 🌬 Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells preferentially modulate macrophages to alleviate pulmonary fibrosis

  5. ⚡ CREPT upregulates the antioxidant genes via activation of NF-κB/Nrf2 in acute liver injury

  6. 🔁 An oncoprotein CREPT functions as a co-factor in MYC-driven transformation and tumor growth

  7. 🎯 Targeting Smurf1 to block PDK1–Akt signaling in KRAS-mutated colorectal cancer

  8. 📤 Microenvironment-induced CREPT expression by cancer-derived small extracellular vesicles primes field cancerization

  9. 🔋 Oxidative phosphorylation safeguards pluripotency via UDP-N-acetylglucosamine

  10. 🍄 Lachnochromonin, a fungal metabolite from Lachnum virgineum, inhibits cell growth and promotes apoptosis in tumor cells through JAK/STAT3 signaling

🧾 Conclusion:

Professor Zhijie Chang exhibits a robust and well-established career built on investigating mechanisms of cell signaling, tumor microenvironment dynamics, and intercellular communication. His scientific rigor, translational impact, and leadership in the field of cell communication make him an outstanding candidate for the Research for Cell Communication Award. Addressing some broader outreach and open science practices could further elevate his profile, but his contributions to foundational and applied research in this domain are already exemplary.

Naoki Harada | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Naoki Harada | Molecular Mechanisms Signaling | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Naoki Harada, Osaka Metropolitan University, Japan

Naoki Harada is an Associate Professor at Osaka Metropolitan University, Japan, with extensive expertise in molecular biology, biochemistry, endocrinology, and nutrition. He earned his Ph.D. in Life Sciences from Osaka Prefecture University in 2007. Over the past two decades, Harada has made significant contributions to understanding the physiological and biochemical mechanisms underpinning metabolic diseases, particularly type 2 diabetes. His research, characterized by high citation impact (H-index of 25), centers on pancreatic β-cell function and metabolic regulation. He has published 77 peer-reviewed articles and holds a patent related to therapeutic interventions. Harada has collaborated with leading scientists like Professors Hiroshi Inui and Ryoichi Yamaji, strengthening his academic footprint in both national and international circles. A member of multiple scientific societies, Harada continues to influence the field through impactful research, industry collaboration, and educational leadership.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Consistent Research Output

    • 77 peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals (SCI, Scopus).

    • Recent high-impact studies published in Journal of Biological Chemistry, Scientific Reports, and FASEB BioAdvances.

    • Active research profile with an H-index of 25 and over 1,785 citations.

  2. Innovative Scientific Contributions

    • Identified REDD2 as a novel therapeutic target for type 2 diabetes—bridging basic research with translational medicine.

    • Works across disciplines such as molecular biology, endocrinology, and nutritional biochemistry.

  3. Project Leadership & Industry Engagement

    • Led or participated in 14 major research projects.

    • 5 consultancy/industry-based projects, reflecting application-oriented research.

  4. Academic and Collaborative Network

    • Strong academic collaborations with Professors Hiroshi Inui and Ryoichi Yamaji.

    • Member of prestigious scientific societies (e.g., Japanese Biochemical Society, Japan Society of Nutrition and Food Science).

  5. Scientific Versatility

    • Contributions span fundamental mechanisms (e.g., oxidative stress, insulin signaling) to dietary interventions (e.g., mogrol, oleamide).

    • Demonstrates ability to bridge molecular insights with systemic physiological outcomes.

⚙️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. International Visibility and Engagement

    • Expanding participation in international conferences and editorial boards could elevate his global scientific standing.

    • Pursuing cross-border collaborations would further enrich the translational value of his work.

  2. Commercialization and Patent Activity

    • While one patent is noted, increased focus on intellectual property development and biomedical commercialization could further validate his applied research strength.

  3. Outreach and Communication

    • More active public science communication (e.g., webinars, policy advocacy, media coverage) would amplify the societal impact of his research.

🎓 Education:

Naoki Harada received his Ph.D. in Life Sciences from Osaka Prefecture University, Osaka, Japan, in September 2007. His doctoral studies laid the foundation for his interdisciplinary research in molecular biology, biochemistry, and endocrinology. Harada’s academic path was driven by a keen interest in the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying metabolic regulation, particularly in relation to glucose homeostasis and pancreatic function. His education provided him with a solid grounding in experimental techniques, critical thinking, and scientific communication, which have become hallmarks of his later work. The institution, known for excellence in biosciences, enabled Harada to cultivate a strong research acumen. His academic training was complemented by exposure to applied research, linking basic science with clinical and nutritional applications—an approach that he has continued to emphasize throughout his career. His strong educational background plays a pivotal role in his current research endeavors and professional development.

💼 Experience:

Dr. Naoki Harada began his academic career in 2008 as an Assistant Professor at the Graduate School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Osaka Prefecture University. He was promoted to Lecturer in 2015, and subsequently to Associate Professor in 2019. Since 2022, he has served as Associate Professor at the Graduate School of Agriculture, Osaka Metropolitan University. Harada has consistently combined teaching with intensive research, mentoring graduate students while advancing his lab’s focus on metabolic diseases and endocrine physiology. His experience includes leading 14 research projects, consulting on 5 industry-linked nutrition initiatives, and co-authoring over 75 scientific papers. His experience reflects a blend of academic leadership, scientific innovation, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Notably, Harada’s role in identifying REDD2 as a therapeutic target exemplifies his contribution to translational science. He maintains strong academic partnerships and actively contributes to several professional societies, making him a respected figure in Japan’s scientific community.

🔬 Research Focus:

Naoki Harada’s research is at the intersection of molecular biology, endocrinology, and nutrition science, with a particular focus on pancreatic β-cell physiology and glucose metabolism. He investigates how oxidative stress, hormonal signals, and metabolic regulators influence insulin secretion and β-cell viability. One of his pivotal contributions is identifying the REDD2 gene as a negative regulator of β-cell function, offering novel therapeutic targets for type 2 diabetes mellitus. His studies also explore nutrient-sensing pathways, G-protein-coupled receptors, and hormonal modulation of energy metabolism. Harada’s recent work delves into the effects of dietary compounds like mogrol and oleamide on metabolic health, linking molecular mechanisms to real-world dietary interventions. His ability to bridge bench science with clinical and nutritional applications sets his research apart. Through collaborations with leading experts and high-impact publications, Harada continues to advance knowledge in the prevention and treatment of metabolic disorders.

📚 Publications Top Notes:

  • 🧬 REDD2 confers pancreatic β-cell dysfunction in high-fat diet-fed mice – Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2025

  • 🦷 Androgens suppress ST3GAL1/4, modulating mucin glycosylation and microbiota in mice – Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, 2025

  • 🍟 CRTC1 in MC4R cells regulates dietary fat intake – FASEB BioAdvances, 2024

  • 💉 Insulin reduces ER stress-induced apoptosis in INS-1 β-cells – Physiological Reports, 2024

  • 🍬 Mogrol activates GPBAR1 and insulin secretion, alleviates hyperglycemia – Scientific Reports, 2024

  • 🔥 Androgen receptor suppresses β-adrenoceptor-mediated thermogenesis – Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2022

  • 🏥 Age-dependent sex differences in NAFLD in TSOD and db/db mice – PLOS ONE, 2022

  • 🐭 Dietary oleamide attenuates obesity in caged mice – Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry, 2022

  • 🌿 Curcumin targets GPR55 receptor – npj Science of Food, 2022

  • 💪 Oleamide rescues muscle atrophy in small-caged mice – British Journal of Nutrition, 2021

🧾 Conclusion:

Dr. Naoki Harada demonstrates a clear trajectory of research excellence, grounded in scientific rigor and driven by impactful biomedical questions. His ability to identify molecular mechanisms (e.g., REDD2’s role in β-cell dysfunction) and propose therapeutic directions sets him apart as a leading academic in metabolic disease research. His publication record, industry collaborations, and professional memberships underscore a mature and influential academic career.

Zhirong Tan | Gene Regulation Epigenetics | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Zhirong Tan | Gene Regulation Epigenetics | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Zhirong Tan  , Xiangya Hospital, Central South University , China

Professor Zhirong Tan is a leading Chinese expert in pharmacogenomics and clinical pharmacology. Currently a professor at Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, he also serves as the Director of the Pharmacogenetics and Pharmacokinetics Research Laboratory and Deputy Director of the Drug Analysis Center. He has been instrumental in over 300 clinical trials, pushing forward the frontiers of precision medicine, especially in colorectal cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. With over 20 SCI papers, multiple patents, and co-authorship of four books, he’s widely recognized for his work in pharmacokinetics and biomarker discovery. A national GCP and GMP inspector, Prof. Tan actively contributes to pharmaceutical regulation and innovation in China. His academic and industry partnerships reflect a robust foundation in translational research and real-world drug development.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research Contributions
    Prof. Zhirong Tan has made outstanding contributions to clinical pharmacology, pharmacogenetics, and metabolomics over two decades. His research has provided critical insights into drug metabolism, biomarker discovery, and precision medicine, especially in colorectal cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.

  2. Prolific Publication Record
    With over 22 SCI-indexed publications (first or corresponding author) and 6 CSCD papers, Prof. Tan’s research has achieved over 3550 citations and an H-index of 33 on Web of Science—evidence of the high impact and recognition of his work.

  3. Strong National & Industry Collaborations
    He has participated in or led 300+ clinical trials and secured 5 “Million+” industry-funded projects, reflecting strong ties with both academia and industry. His leadership in national-level projects, such as the “Major New Drug Development” program, showcases his influence in China’s healthcare innovation.

  4. Intellectual Property and Innovation
    With 3 granted patents and 3 under review, Prof. Tan’s ability to translate research into practical applications is evident. His individualized esomeprazole dosing regimen highlights innovation at the clinical level.

  5. Regulatory & Policy Contributions
    As a national GCP/GMP inspector, he plays a pivotal role in drug trial ethics and compliance in China. He also holds leadership roles in pharmacogenomics committees, further demonstrating his commitment to public health advancement.

  6. Academic Mentorship and Editorial Work
    In addition to research, Prof. Tan contributes as a journal reviewer, co-author of four textbooks, and mentor to the next generation of scientists, reinforcing his role as a thought leader in the field.

🔍 Areas for Improvement:

  1. International Visibility
    While Prof. Tan’s national presence is remarkable, further international collaborations, invited keynotes at global conferences, or leading roles in global consortia could enhance his visibility and expand the influence of his work.

  2. Broader Publication Range
    Publishing more frequently in top-tier international journals (e.g., Nature, The Lancet, NEJM) would increase the global academic reach of his findings.

  3. Open Science & Data Sharing
    As the field moves toward transparency, incorporating open-access publications and shared data repositories could boost both reproducibility and citations.

🎓 Education:

Professor Zhirong Tan obtained his Ph.D. from Central South University, a premier Chinese institution, where he laid the groundwork for his expertise in clinical pharmacology and pharmacogenomics. He later pursued postdoctoral research at the School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland, Baltimore, one of the top pharmaceutical research institutions in the United States. This international experience enabled him to gain a global perspective in drug metabolism, biomarker identification, and translational pharmacology. His academic training focused on cutting-edge methodologies such as metabolomics, pharmacokinetics, and precision medicine. Through continuous education and research, he has built a reputation as a highly skilled pharmacologist whose work bridges basic research and clinical applications.

💼 Experience:

With a research career spanning over two decades since 1998, Professor Zhirong Tan has led and participated in numerous national-level and provincial-level projects, including China’s National Science and Technology Major Projects. He currently holds multiple leadership positions at Xiangya Hospital, Central South University. Over the years, he has completed major research grants from NSFC, the Hunan Province, and the Ministry of Science and Technology. As a GCP and GMP inspector, Prof. Tan has overseen more than 300 clinical trials, ensuring drug development meets regulatory and ethical standards. His experience also extends to industry collaboration, with successful execution of 5 “Million+” funded projects and influential roles in pharma-academic alliances. A frequent peer reviewer and contributor to international journals, his work influences both the scientific community and regulatory frameworks.

🔬 Research Focus:

Professor Tan’s primary research focus lies in clinical pharmacology, pharmacogenomics, and metabolomics, particularly for colorectal cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. His work aims to identify and validate biomarkers for disease diagnosis, drug efficacy, and toxicity prediction. A major contributor to China’s “Major New Drug Development” initiative, he has developed personalized esomeprazole dosing regimens by studying genetic polymorphisms, SNPs, and microRNA interactions. His research also explores the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease using metabolomic profiling, offering insights into early detection and potential therapeutics. He applies advanced bioanalytical methods to understand inter-individual variability in drug metabolism and therapeutic response. His projects have real-world clinical implications, transforming how drugs are prescribed, regulated, and monitored. Through his pioneering work, Prof. Tan contributes significantly to the evolution of precision medicine in China.

📚 Publication Top Notes:

  1. 📊 Role of BCRP 421C>A polymorphism on rosuvastatin pharmacokinetics in healthy Chinese males

  2. ❤️ Gly389Arg polymorphism of β1‐adrenergic receptor and cardiovascular response to metoprolol

  3. 💊 CYP2C19 ultra-rapid metabolizer genotype affects voriconazole pharmacokinetics

  4. 🧬 HLA‐B35:01 allele as biomarker for Polygonum multiflorum–induced liver injury*

  5. 🌿 Repeated berberine administration inhibits cytochromes P450 in humans

  6. 💉 Effect of SLCO1B1 polymorphism on pharmacokinetics of nateglinide

  7. 🧪 Assessment of cytochrome P450 activity by five‐drug cocktail approach

  8. ☕ Plasma caffeine metabolite ratio linked to CYP1A2 polymorphisms

  9. 🔬 Inducibility of CYP1A2 by omeprazole associated with genetic polymorphism

  10. 🧫 Ile118Val polymorphism of CYP3A4 affects simvastatin lipid-lowering efficacy

📝 Conclusion:

Professor Zhirong Tan is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His record of scientific excellence, clinical innovation, and regulatory leadership clearly positions him as a key contributor to modern pharmacology. His integrated approach—spanning basic science, clinical trials, and health policy—has had a measurable impact on patient care and drug development in China.

While there is room to further expand his global footprint, his accomplishments to date already demonstrate the caliber, commitment, and consistency expected of a world-class researcher.