Luminita Paraoan | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Luminita Paraoan | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Manchester Metropolitan University | United Kingdom

Professor Luminita Paraoan is a leading molecular and ocular cell biologist whose research focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) function, degeneration, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Her pioneering work integrates omics-based analyses, molecular genetics, and cell biology to uncover how cellular stress responses, proteostasis, and intercellular communication contribute to retinal aging and disease. Paraoan has made significant discoveries on endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathways, particularly the PERK/EIF2AK3 axis, and the regulation of apoptosis, oxidative stress, and autophagy in RPE cells. Her studies have also revealed novel insights into p53/p63 effector PERP, Cystatin C, and visual cycle gene regulation in aging and disease contexts. Through collaborative research, she has explored stem cell protection mechanisms, PI3K/AKT signaling inhibition, and multi-omic signatures of aging across cancers and ocular tissues. Supported by over £4 million in external funding, her work has advanced understanding of molecular targets for retinal and neurodegenerative diseases. Professor Paraoan leads the Ocular Molecular Biology and Mechanisms of Disease Group, mentoring numerous postdoctoral and doctoral researchers internationally, and continues to shape the field of vision science and molecular ophthalmology.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications:

Suwanmanee, G., Kheolamai, P., Tantrawatpan, C., Grimes, D., Matei, I. V., Paraoan, L., & Manochantr, S. (2025). Fucoxanthin protects placenta-derived human mesenchymal stem cells against oxidative stress-induced apoptosis by modulating genes involved in DNA damage repair, ER stress response, and p53-induced apoptosis. Stem Cell Research & Therapy, 16(1), 497.

Jantalika, T., Manochantr, S., Kheolamai, P., Tantikanlayaporn, D., Pinlaor, S., Saijuntha, W., Paraoan, L., & Tantrawatpan, C. (2025). Human chorion and placental mesenchymal stem cells conditioned media suppress cell migration and invasion by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT pathway in cholangiocarcinoma. Scientific Reports, 15(1), 31472.

Matei, I. V., & Paraoan, L. (2024). Aging retinal pigmented epithelium: Omics-based insights into vision decline. Aging (Albany NY), 16(12), 10201–10202.

Carlsson, E., Sharif, U., Supharattanasitthi, W., & Paraoan, L. (2023). Analysis of wild type and variant B cystatin C interactome in retinal pigment epithelium cells reveals variant B. Cells, 12(5), 713.

Dhirachaikulpanich, D., Lagger, C., Chatsirisupachai, K., de Magalhães, J. P., & Paraoan, L. (2022). Intercellular communication analysis of the human retinal pigment epithelial and choroidal cells predicts pathways associated with aging, cellular senescence, and age-related macular degeneration. Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, 14, 1016293.

Saptarshi, N., Porter, L. F., & Paraoan, L. (2022). PERK/EIF2AK3 integrates endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced apoptosis, oxidative stress, and autophagy responses in immortalised retinal pigment epithelial cells. Scientific Reports, 12(1), 13324.

Farhad Ghorbani | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Farhad Ghorbani | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Farhad Ghorbani | Shiraz University of Medical Sciences ,Shiraz,Iran | Iran

Dr. Farhad Ghorbani is an esteemed Assistant Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran. With over two decades of clinical and academic experience, he has significantly contributed to the fields of oral pathology, trauma, and surgical interventions. A graduate of Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Dr. Ghorbani later specialized further at Shiraz University. His dedication to advancing clinical knowledge is reflected in over a dozen high-impact peer-reviewed publications, focusing on craniofacial abnormalities, surgical outcomes, and rare oral diseases. He is an active researcher with a Scopus Author ID and ORCID, consistently contributing to scientific journals like BMC Oral Health, Scientific Reports, and Maxillofacial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. His multidisciplinary collaborations have led to enhanced diagnostic techniques and patient outcomes. Dr. Ghorbani is recognized for both his innovative research and his commitment to medical education.

Publication Profile: 

Orcid

Google Scholar

Education:

Dr. Ghorbani began his medical journey at Kerman University of Medical Sciences, earning his professional doctorate in dentistry (1992–1998). Following years of clinical practice, he advanced his academic and surgical expertise by joining Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in 2013, where he underwent specialized training in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and served as an Assistant Professor during his educational tenure (2013–2018). His academic training focused on maxillofacial pathology, surgical techniques, and interdisciplinary diagnostics. The combination of strong foundational medical education and advanced surgical specialization has equipped him with both the theoretical depth and clinical acumen to lead impactful research. His training underlines a commitment to academic excellence and lifelong learning, which is further reflected in his scholarly contributions. Dr. Ghorbani’s educational background bridges foundational dental sciences with advanced surgical innovation.

Experience:

Since December 2018, Dr. Farhad Ghorbani has held the position of Assistant Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran. His career blends clinical practice, research, and teaching. Over the years, he has led numerous studies exploring craniofacial morphology, surgical outcomes, dental trauma, and maxillofacial pathologies. He mentors postgraduate students and collaborates with interdisciplinary teams, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and surgical care. His work in both rural and urban settings has exposed him to a wide spectrum of maxillofacial cases, enriching his clinical insights. He actively contributes to improving surgical protocols and patient care standards. Dr. Ghorbani’s experience also includes academic publishing, peer reviews, and participation in scientific forums. He is recognized for his analytical approach and evidence-based practice. His long-standing affiliation with reputed institutions and research groups underscores his strong leadership in oral surgery and academic scholarship.

Research Focus:

Dr. Ghorbani’s primary research interests lie in oral pathology, craniofacial surgery, dentoalveolar trauma, and radiological diagnostics. His work often combines clinical case reports with retrospective analysis, offering insights into rare presentations such as parathyroid carcinoma-linked jaw tumors, and developmental anomalies like concha bullosa. A hallmark of his research is his ability to identify atypical symptoms and connect them with broader systemic conditions, ensuring early diagnosis and management. He has conducted fractal analysis studies to evaluate bone quality, and he explores patient-centered outcomes, such as satisfaction post-rhinoplasty and the psychological impacts of facial surgery. Additionally, his research evaluates the intersection of dental surgery with systemic health—evident in studies related to auditory changes post-orthognathic surgery or the implications of COVID-19 on dental care. Through evidence-based methods and innovative case analyses, Dr. Ghorbani has positioned himself as a thought leader in interdisciplinary oral and maxillofacial research.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Brown tumors of both jaws as the initial manifestation of parathyroid carcinoma (BMC Oral Health, 2025)

  2. Distribution and laterality of concha bullosa across cranial skeletal types (Maxillofacial Plastic Surg, 2025)

  3. Calcifying Odontogenic Cyst in Posterior Maxilla: A Case Report (Journal of Dentistry Shiraz, 2025)

  4. Central giant cell granuloma mimicking fibro-osseous lesion and hemangioma (J Med Case Reports, 2024)

  5. Fractal CT analysis of mandibular condyles in class III malocclusion (Scientific Reports, 2023)

  6. Patient dissatisfaction following rhinoplasty: A 10-year Iranian study (Maxillofacial Plastic Surg, 2023)

  7. Correlation between impacted third molar and blood group (Int J of Dentistry, 2021)

  8. Effects of orthognathic surgery on auditory function (Maxillofacial Plastic Surg, 2021)

  9. Evaluation of alveolar fractures in trauma patients in Iran (BMC Oral Health, 2021)

  10. Anxiety in patients undergoing mandibular third molar extraction (J Oral Research & Review, 2020)

Conclusion:

In summary, Dr. Farhad Ghorbani embodies the qualities of a deeply committed, analytically skilled, and academically active oral and maxillofacial surgeon. His research is directly informed by his clinical experience, allowing him to bridge theory and practice effectively. His contributions have enriched the literature on oral pathology, surgical complications, facial aesthetics, and patient psychology following treatment interventions. While there are opportunities to expand the scope and scale of his work through more robust methodologies and international collaboration, his existing portfolio already reflects a high standard of academic and clinical integration. Given his track record, ongoing research productivity, and evident commitment to innovation and education, Dr. Ghorbani is a strong and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With continued growth in research leadership and expanded global outreach, he is poised to make an even greater impact in the years ahead.

Zu-Chian Chiang | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang | Cancer Cell Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang , Fujian Normal University , China

Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang is a highly accomplished postdoctoral fellow at the Biomedical Research Center of Southern China, Fujian Normal University, specializing in cancer research and regenerative medicine. With extensive experience in antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), peptide synthesis, and tissue engineering, his work focuses on the development of targeted therapies and innovative biomaterials for medical applications. Dr. Chiang’s expertise includes both academic research and real-world clinical applications, and he has contributed to numerous peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. Over the years, his research has received recognition from prestigious institutions such as the National Taiwan University and Academia Sinica. He also plays an active role in academic societies, providing his expertise as a peer reviewer for various scientific journals and as a key member of multiple international organizations. Dr. Chiang continues to make significant strides in biomedical engineering and cancer therapy.

Publication Profile:

Scopus

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Education and Experience:

    • Dr. Chiang has a robust academic background, with a Ph.D. in Materials and Chemical Engineering and an M.S. in Chemistry, both from reputable institutions in Taiwan. His postdoctoral experience spans multiple prestigious institutions, such as Academia Sinica and National Taiwan University Hospital, and his ongoing postdoc at the Biomedical Research Center of Southern China showcases his continued dedication to scientific progress.

  2. Research Excellence:

    • Dr. Chiang has made significant contributions to the field of cancer research, particularly in antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), functional peptides for cancer research, and the development of specific aptamers as targeted therapies for cancer.

    • He has authored numerous high-quality peer-reviewed publications (with recent impactful papers), contributing to advancing understanding in immunotherapy, ADCs, and cancer therapeutics. His research has garnered attention in journals like Frontiers in Oncology and PLOS ONE.

  3. Awards and Recognition:

    • Dr. Chiang’s receipt of multiple prestigious awards, such as the 3rd Biotech Elite Training Reserve Program award, highlights his excellence in both academic and professional research. His achievements have earned recognition from both Taiwanese and Chinese scientific communities.

  4. Active Contribution to the Scientific Community:

    • Serving as a peer reviewer for the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, as well as being involved in numerous scientific societies, demonstrates his commitment to advancing the field and his active engagement with the wider scientific community.

  5. Research Support and Funding:

    • Dr. Chiang has successfully secured research funding from prominent sources, such as the Department of Human Resources and Social Security, Fujian Province, showcasing his ability to lead and manage significant research projects. His ongoing research projects reflect a focus on cancer therapies and therapeutic advancements, further cementing his relevance in the field.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Public Engagement and Outreach:

    • While Dr. Chiang has impressive research achievements, further expanding his presence in broader public engagement, such as science communication, could help make his findings accessible to a larger audience, especially in cancer therapy and regenerative medicine.

  2. Collaboration and Networking:

    • Dr. Chiang’s research has been highly productive, but future collaboration with other interdisciplinary teams could increase the breadth of his work and facilitate the development of novel, cross-disciplinary solutions.

  3. Increasing Citation Impact:

    • Although Dr. Chiang has 91 citations, his h-index of 5 suggests there may be room to increase the visibility and citation impact of his work. Strategic publishing in highly-cited journals or working with larger collaborative projects could elevate this metric.

  4. Mentorship and Training:

    • While his extensive postdoctoral training is impressive, Dr. Chiang’s experience in mentorship or leading research teams could be enhanced further. Serving as a mentor for students and junior researchers could help strengthen his leadership in the scientific community.

Education:

Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang earned his Ph.D. in Materials and Chemical Engineering from National United University, Taiwan (2008-2014), where he specialized in biomedical engineering under the mentorship of Professor An-Chong Chao and Dr. Guo-Chung Dong. Prior to that, he completed his M.S. in Chemistry from Tunghai University, Taiwan (2005-2007), under the guidance of Professor Feng-Di Lung. His doctoral research focused on creating innovative materials for biomedical applications, such as scaffolds for tissue engineering. Throughout his academic career, Dr. Chiang was awarded scholarships and fellowships recognizing his excellence in research, such as the First Outstanding Doctoral Scholarship at National United University and the Master’s Program Scholarship from the Hunan Fellow Association of Taiwan. His academic foundation laid the groundwork for his cutting-edge contributions to cancer research, drug delivery, and regenerative medicine, ensuring his continued impact in the field.

Experience:

Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang has accumulated a wealth of research experience, serving as a postdoctoral fellow at various prestigious institutions. Since September 2019, he has been working at the Biomedical Research Center of Southern China, Fujian Normal University, focusing on cancer therapies and advanced drug delivery systems. Prior to this, he held postdoctoral positions at the Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica (2016-2019), and National Taiwan University Hospital’s Clinical Trial Center (2015-2016), where he worked on pioneering biotechnological projects, including the Taiwan Protein Project. Dr. Chiang’s expertise extends to developing antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), functional peptides, and biomaterials for regenerative medicine. His involvement in various research groups has strengthened his interdisciplinary knowledge in both molecular and clinical aspects of cancer therapy. Dr. Chiang also gained valuable teaching experience while completing his degrees, serving as a teaching assistant in organic chemistry and chemical engineering courses throughout his academic career.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his career, reflecting his significant contributions to the field of biomedical research. Notable honors include the “Science and Technology Commissioner” title in Quanzhou, Fujian Province (2020), and the “Miaoli Southeastern Xindong Satellite Rotary Club Chairman Award” (2017). In 2016, he was honored as an awardee of the “3rd Biotech Elite Training Reserve Program” by National Taiwan University and Taiwan’s Ministry of Science and Technology. His academic achievements were further recognized with the Chung Hwa Rotary Annual Doctoral Program Award (2012), and he received the First Outstanding Doctoral Scholarship at National United University (2010). Additionally, Dr. Chiang was awarded the Master’s Program Scholarship from the Hunan Fellow Association of Taiwan (2007). These accolades reflect his outstanding dedication to scientific research, education, and professional development in the fields of cancer therapy and regenerative medicine.

Research Focus:

Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang’s primary research interests lie in the development of functional peptides for cancer therapy and tissue engineering, as well as the design of advanced biomolecular materials for regenerative medicine. His work focuses on antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), targeting specific cancer cells for more effective therapies. One of his key research areas is developing specific aptamers as blockers, agonists, or antagonists for cancer treatment, aiming to enhance therapeutic outcomes. He is also dedicated to the synthesis of peptides that can aid in the regeneration of bone tissue and the creation of biomaterials that combine bioactive molecules for regenerative medicine. Through his research, Dr. Chiang aims to improve cancer treatments by targeting tumors more precisely, reduce side effects, and contribute to breakthroughs in drug delivery. His work also explores innovative methods of using biomaterials for enhancing regenerative medicine, thus bridging the gap between basic science and clinical application.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. “Generation and characterization of 7DC-DM1: a non-cleavable CD47-targeting antibody-drug conjugates with antitumor effects” 🧬💉

  2. “Strengthening effect of thalidomide combined with anti-PD1 antibody on enhancing immunity for lung cancer therapy” 🫁💪

  3. “Development of Novel CD47-Specific ADCs Possessing High Potency Against Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in vitro and in vivo” 🫀⚛️

  4. “Preparation and characterization of antibody-drug conjugates acting on HER2-positive cancer cells” 🧪🧫

  5. “Preparation and characterization of dexamethasone-immobilized chitosan scaffold” 💊🧵

  6. “Characterization of the morphology and hydrophilicity of chitosan/caffeic acid hybrid scaffolds” 🧫🌿

  7. “Preparation and characterization of caffeic acid grafted chitosan/CPTMS hybrid scaffolds” 🍄🔬

Conclusion:

Dr. Zu-Chian Chiang is a highly qualified and accomplished researcher, with a strong track record in cancer research and therapeutic innovation. His work in developing antibody-drug conjugates, functional peptides, and aptamers demonstrates great promise in transforming cancer therapy. His academic credentials, publications, awards, and research funding solidify his standing as a top candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Further expansion into public engagement, interdisciplinary collaborations, and mentorship could further enhance his contributions to the field and his overall impact. Therefore, Dr. Chiang is certainly a strong contender for the award, with potential for even greater influence moving forward.