Agota Apati | Stem Cell Based Disease Modelling | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Agota Apati | Stem Cell Based Disease Modelling | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ágota Apáti, PhD, DSc, is a distinguished Hungarian molecular biologist and Senior Research Associate at the Institute of Molecular Life Sciences, Research Centre for Natural Sciences. She leads the Pluripotent Stem Cell Laboratory and is renowned for establishing Hungary’s first human pluripotent stem cell lab. With over 70 publications and an H-index of 25, her work is widely recognized internationally. Dr. Apáti’s research encompasses human iPSC-derived disease models, membrane transporters, and cellular signaling pathways, with implications in schizophrenia, diabetes, and rare syndromes. She has supervised numerous PhD students and maintains active roles in both national and international scientific societies. Her commitment to translational stem cell research and ethical scientific practice positions her as a leading figure in the field of regenerative medicine and cellular therapeutics.

Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Ágota Apáti holds a Master of Science (MSc) degree in Chemistry from Eötvös Loránd University of Sciences, Budapest (1984–1989). She later pursued doctoral studies and earned her PhD from Semmelweis Medical University (1998–2003), focusing on molecular and cellular aspects of hematology and immunology. Her academic training blends rigorous biochemical education with advanced medical sciences, establishing a solid foundation for her research career in stem cell biology and cellular therapeutics. Through continuous engagement in teaching and supervising graduate students, she has also remained an integral part of academic development at Hungary’s premier institutions. Her strong interdisciplinary background supports her work on complex cellular processes and disease modeling, and she is also a Doctor of Science (DSc, 2024) from the Hungarian Academy of Sciences—an honor awarded for substantial contributions to biomedical research in Hungary.

🧪 Experience

With over three decades of research experience, Dr. Ágota Apáti began her scientific career as a Research Fellow at Semmelweis Medical University (1989–1993). She progressed through multiple institutions, including the National Institute of Haematology and Immunology (1993–2004) and the National Blood Service (2005–2013), where she led various molecular biology projects. Between 2013 and 2023, she was a Senior Research Associate and lab head at the Institute of Enzymology, Hungarian Academy of Sciences. Since 2023, she continues her leadership as Laboratory Head at the Institute of Molecular Life Sciences under HUNREN. She has consistently taught and mentored postgraduate students in biochemistry, hematology, immunology, and membrane biology. Dr. Apáti’s collaborative and interdisciplinary projects have helped develop multiple disease models and cellular assays. Her scientific leadership has been instrumental in expanding Hungary’s role in cutting-edge stem cell research and molecular diagnostics.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Ágota Apáti has been recognized both nationally and internationally for her contributions to biomedical research. Early in her career, she received the prestigious UNIDO award during the ICRO course on RNA structure and function in Trieste, Italy (1994). In 2024, she was awarded the Doctor of Science (DSc) degree by the Hungarian Academy of Sciences—a distinguished title granted to researchers with a substantial, impactful body of scientific work. Her membership in renowned scientific organizations, such as the International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR), Hungarian Society of Biology, Hungarian Society of Biochemistry, and the Hungarian Medical Research Council’s Ethical Board for Human Reproduction, underscores her stature in the field. These accolades not only reflect her scientific excellence but also her contributions to ethical research practice, public health, and mentoring within the scientific community, cementing her reputation as a key contributor to molecular life sciences.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Apáti’s research centers on pluripotent stem cells, disease modeling, and cellular signaling. She specializes in generating and differentiating human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into neuronal, cardiac, mesenchymal, and endothelial lineages. Her work extends into disease modeling for schizophrenia, arteriosclerosis, diabetes, DiGeorge syndrome, and Frank-Ter Haar syndrome using patient-derived iPSC lines and CRISPR-based genome editing. She has developed cellular reporter systems to study membrane transporter function and calcium signaling pathways, significantly advancing understanding in neuropsychiatric and cardiovascular disorders. Through integrative omics and 3D organoid models, Dr. Apáti’s lab explores metabolic and genetic dysregulation in human pathologies. Her translational research aims to identify drug targets and therapeutic strategies using patient-specific cell lines. She also investigates multidrug resistance in stem cells and cancer, contributing to better clinical interventions. Her multidisciplinary projects bridge fundamental biology with clinical relevance, making her a vital contributor to regenerative medicine and personalized therapy.

Conclusion

Dr. Ágota Apáti is a trailblazing scientist whose pioneering work in human stem cell research, disease modeling, and membrane biology continues to shape translational medicine, with a sustained commitment to research excellence, scientific mentorship, and ethical innovation in biomedical sciences.

Publications

  • Haloperidol, Olanzapine, and Risperidone Induce Morphological Changes in an In Vitro Model of Human Hippocampal Neurogenesis

    Biomolecules
    2024-06 | Journal article | Author
    CONTRIBUTORS: Bálint Jezsó; Sára Kálmán; Kiara Gitta Farkas; Edit Hathy; Katalin Vincze; Dzsenifer Kovács-Schoblocher; Julianna Lilienberg; Csongor Tordai; Zsofia Nemoda; László Homolya et al.
  • Partial Disturbance of Microprocessor Function in Human Stem Cells Carrying a Heterozygous Mutation in the DGCR8 Gene

    Genes
    2022-10 | Journal article | Author
    CONTRIBUTORS: Dóra Reé; Ábel Fóthi; Nóra Varga; Orsolya Kolacsek; Tamas Orban; Agota Apat
  • A Novel Cell-Based Model for a Rare Disease: The Tks4-KO Human Embryonic Stem Cell Line as a Frank-Ter Haar Syndrome Model System

    International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    2022-08 | Journal article | Author
    CONTRIBUTORS: Loretta László; Hédi Maczelka; Tamás Takács; Anita Kurilla; Álmos Tilajka; László Buday; Vas Virag; Agota Apati
  • Synthesis and Systematic Investigation of Lepidiline A and Its Gold(I), Silver(I), and Copper(I) Complexes Using In Vitro Cancer Models and Multipotent Stem Cells

 

Ejaz Ahmad Khera | Materials Simulation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Ejaz Ahmad Khera | Materials Simulation | Best Researcher Award


Dr. Ejaz Ahmad Khera is an Assistant Professor of Physics at The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Pakistan, and an HEC-approved supervisor with a PhD in the characterization of materials for memory storage and neuromorphic applications using DFT. He has published over 30 high-impact international research articles and currently leads research at the Materials Modeling and Simulation Lab, where he supervises MPhil and PhD students. His group is actively involved in developing efficient double perovskites for solar cell applications. In addition to his academic and research roles, Dr. Khera contributes to departmental administrative functions and has participated in multiple international conferences in physics and materials science. He is proficient in VASP, Wien2k, CASTEP, and other computational tools, reflecting his strong background in computational materials physics.

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Khera earned his PhD in Physics from The Islamia University of Bahawalpur (2016–2021), focusing on DFT-based characterization of materials for neuromorphic and memory applications. He holds an MPhil in Physics from Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad (2012–2014), and a Master of Science in Physics from Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan (2007–2010). His academic foundation combines theoretical physics, computational modeling, and practical understanding of solid-state and condensed matter systems. He is trained in multiple simulation platforms including VASP, Wein2k, and CASTEP, and has built expertise in data analysis software like Origin and visualization tools like VESTA and Crystal Maker. His solid academic training has enabled him to mentor graduate students in computational material science and renewable energy research domains. Dr. Khera has also enhanced his academic exposure through participation in pedagogical and research methodology training programs.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Khera is currently serving as Assistant Professor of Physics at The Islamia University of Bahawalpur since March 2022, where he teaches undergraduate and postgraduate courses, leads research, and manages academic administration. From 2019 to 2021, he was a visiting lecturer at University of Education, Multan Campus, and previously taught physics at Admire Group of Colleges (2017–2021), Muslim Group of Colleges (2013–2017), and Educators Group of Colleges (2011–2013), focusing on undergraduate and higher secondary education. Over a decade of teaching experience has honed his expertise in delivering core physics concepts and mentoring students. In his academic tenure, Dr. Khera has also built research collaborations and guided MPhil and PhD students in materials modeling. His responsibilities have included curriculum design, academic planning, and seminar coordination. He is deeply engaged in academic development through active participation in physics conferences and workshops.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Khera received the Prime Minister Youth Laptop Scheme award from the Federal Government of Pakistan in 2018, recognizing his academic excellence and contribution to higher education. He was also granted the Punjab Government Scholarship under the Fee Reimbursement Scheme for Higher Education in 2017, awarded by the Government of Punjab. These honors reflect his academic merit, commitment to research, and service in the field of physics education. He has participated in multiple international and national-level conferences, including events hosted by The Islamia University of Bahawalpur and The Women University Multan. His consistent performance in academics and his role in teaching and research supervision have earned him institutional recognition. Additionally, his HEC-approved supervisor status further signifies his qualification and leadership in guiding advanced research projects in Pakistan. These accolades support his active involvement in national education development and scientific advancement in materials science.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Khera’s research is centered on computational materials science with a focus on density functional theory (DFT)-based investigations of electronic, optical, thermoelectric, and structural properties of novel materials. His primary interest lies in characterizing double perovskites (DPs), Heusler alloys, and vacancy-ordered compounds for use in solar cells, memory storage, brain-inspired neuromorphic systems, and energy harvesting applications. Using simulation tools like VASP, CASTEP, and Wien2k, he studies materials such as Ga₂PtX₆, Li₂ATlCl₆, and Na₂PtX₆ for their optoelectronic and thermoelectric performance. His recent publications explore halogen modification, spin polarization, and hybrid perovskites for sustainable technologies. His research group actively contributes to discovering lead-free, high-efficiency materials that align with global goals for clean and renewable energy. Dr. Khera also collaborates internationally, co-authoring papers with scientists across Asia and Europe, thereby advancing the field of computational physics and sustainable material development.

Publications

 

  • Probing the opto-electronic, thermoelectric, thermodynamic and elastic responses
    of lead-free double perovskite Li2ATlCl6 (A= Na and K) for potential photovoltaic
    and high-energy applications: A DFT study
    Reference: Qiguo Xiao, Abrar Nazir, Ejaz Ahmad Khera, Mumtaz Manzoor, Ramesh
    Sharma, Javed Rahman, Sabah Ansar, Farooq Ali
    Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0921510724006895

 

  • First principles investigation of structural, electronic, optical, transport properties
    of double perovskites X2TaTbO6 (X= Ca, Sr, Ba) for optoelectronic and energy
    harvesting applications
    Reference: Mudassir Ishfaq, Muniba Urooj, Muhammad Sajid, Khawar Ismail, Rimsha
    Baqeel, Ejaz Ahmad Khera, Rajwali Khan, Sattam Al Otaibi, Khaled Althubeiti, Hassan Ali,
    Ghulam Murtaza, Muhammad Jamil
    Link: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022369724005675

 

 

PhongSon Dinh | Gene function analysis | Best Researcher Award

Dr. PhongSon Dinh | Gene function analysis | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Dinh Phong Son is a prominent researcher at Duy Tan University, Vietnam, specializing in laboratory medicine and molecular medicine. With a PhD from Guangxi Medical University, China, he is dedicated to advancing the field of molecular biology and medical diagnostics. His work focuses on identifying biomarkers for early disease detection and investigating gene targets for targeted therapies. He actively contributes to scientific advancements in understanding complex diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Through his expertise in molecular techniques like CRISPR/Cas9, PCR, and sequencing, Dr. Son plays a vital role in improving medical diagnostics and treatments. 🧬🔬

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Dinh Phong Son holds a Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Molecular Medicine from Guangxi Medical University, China, after earning his degree in Laboratory Medicine from Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam. His educational background has equipped him with the expertise in molecular biology, enabling him to explore complex diseases at a molecular level and work on cutting-edge technologies in the field of gene editing and disease diagnosis. 🎓📚

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Dinh Phong Son has significant experience in molecular medicine, focusing on the development of biomarkers for early disease diagnosis and treatment. With expertise in molecular biology techniques such as PCR, qPCR, CRISPR/Cas9, and sequencing, he has conducted extensive research on diseases like cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and diabetes. His work integrates bioinformatics and molecular assays to understand gene functions and identify potential drug targets. He is actively contributing to scientific publications and advancing the research community’s knowledge in disease diagnostics and therapies. 🔬💡

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Dinh Phong Son’s research focuses on molecular techniques for disease detection and gene therapy. His current work includes exploring circRNA, miRNA, mRNA, and their role in diseases like coronary heart disease and cancer. Dr. Son is particularly interested in developing diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for systemic diseases using next-generation sequencing and CRISPR/Cas9. He also investigates the interaction networks between lncRNA, circRNA, miRNA, genes, and proteins, aiming to create molecular-based solutions for precision medicine. His research paves the way for future advancements in molecular diagnostics and personalized therapies. 🔬🧬

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Dinh Phong Son’s contributions to molecular medicine have earned him recognition in the scientific community. His research publications, particularly on gene networks and biomarkers in cardiovascular and cancer research, have garnered widespread attention. He is currently a nominee for the Best Researcher Award, reflecting his ongoing commitment to advancing the fields of molecular biology, gene therapy, and disease diagnostics. His work is an important step toward improving public health outcomes through the application of molecular techniques. 🏆🏅

Publications 📚

  • Identification and assessment of hub genes and miRNAs coregulatory associated with immune infiltrations and drug interactions in latent tuberculosis based on MicroarrayData analysis, molecular docking, and dynamic simulation

    Biochemistry and Biophysics Reports
    2025-03 | Journal article
    CONTRIBUTORS: PhongSon Dinh; ChauMyThanh Tran; ThiPhuongHoai Dinh; Hai-Anh Ha; Aigul Utegenova; Awais Ali; Abdulaziz Alamri
  • Hsa_circRNA_0000284 acts as a ceRNA to participate in coronary heart disease progression by sponging miRNA-338-3p via regulating the expression of ETS1

    Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics
    2024-07-02 | Journal article
    CONTRIBUTORS: PhongSon Dinh; ChauMyThanh Tran; ThiPhuongHoai Dinh; Awais Ali; ShangLing Pan
  • Potential diagnostic value of serum microRNAs for 19 cancer types: a meta-analysis of bioinformatics data

    Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics
    2024-03-15 | Journal article
    CONTRIBUTORS: ChauMyThanh Tran; PhongSon Dinh
  • Identification of hsa_circ_0001445 of a novel circRNA-miRNA-mRNA regulatory network as potential biomarker for coronary heart disease

    Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine
    2023-03-14 | Journal article
    Part of ISSN: 2297-055X
    CONTRIBUTORS: PhongSon Dinh; JunHua Peng; ThanhLoan Tran; DongFeng Wu; ChauMyThanh Tran; ThiPhuongHoai Dinh; ShangLing Pan

Fan Zhang | Proteomics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Fan Zhang | Proteomics | Best Researcher Award

Fan Zhang, born on September 23, 1991, is a postdoctoral researcher specializing in cancer proteogenomics 🔬. He is currently with the Department of Pathology at Duke University 🏛️. His research leverages mass spectrometry and bioinformatics 🖥️ to investigate metabolic pathways in therapy-resistant prostate cancer and other malignancies. He has received the FY23 Prostate Cancer Research Program Early Investigator Research Award 🏆 for his work on glutamine metabolism in advanced prostate cancer. His contributions to proteogenomics have resulted in multiple high-impact publications 📄 in Nature Communications, Cell Research, and Molecular & Cellular Proteomics. Proficient in LC-MS/MS, bioinformatics analysis, and experimental techniques, his research bridges the gap between basic cancer biology and clinical applications 🏥, paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies in oncology.

Profile

Education 🎓

Fan Zhang holds a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Fudan University (2015-2020), where he focused on proteogenomic research. He further pursued postdoctoral training in Clinical Medicine at Fudan University (2020-2022) before joining Duke University as a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Pathology in 2023. His academic journey began with a B.S. in Applied Biological Science from Anhui Agricultural University (2011-2015). Throughout his education, he gained expertise in genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics, developing a strong foundation in bioinformatics and experimental methodologies. His interdisciplinary training has equipped him with skills in mass spectrometry-based proteomics, omics data analysis, and cancer metabolism research. His current research at Duke University focuses on metabolic vulnerabilities in prostate cancer, aiming to develop targeted therapies. His diverse academic background enables him to integrate various scientific disciplines, contributing significantly to cancer research and precision medicine.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Fan Zhang has extensive research experience in cancer proteogenomics. Currently a postdoctoral researcher at Duke University (2023-present), he investigates metabolic vulnerabilities in prostate cancer using advanced mass spectrometry and omics analysis. Previously, he was a postdoc in Clinical Medicine at Fudan University (2020-2022), where he contributed to proteogenomic studies on various cancers, including pituitary neuroendocrine tumors and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. His Ph.D. at Fudan University (2015-2020) focused on proteogenomic characterizations of cancer, leading to high-impact publications. He is proficient in LC-MS/MS, bioinformatics, and experimental methodologies such as Western blotting, immunofluorescence, and cell culture. His research integrates mass spectrometry with genomics and transcriptomics to uncover novel therapeutic targets. With expertise in multi-omics data analysis, he has significantly contributed to the field of cancer biology. His work is supported by prestigious grants, highlighting his role as a leading researcher in proteogenomics and precision oncology.

Research Interests 🔬

Fan Zhang’s research focuses on proteogenomics and cancer metabolism, particularly in therapy-resistant malignancies like prostate cancer, pituitary neuroendocrine tumors, and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. He specializes in mass spectrometry-based proteomics (DDA, DIA) and integrates multi-omics approaches, including genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, to uncover novel cancer vulnerabilities. His current work at Duke University investigates glutamine metabolism in castration-resistant prostate cancer, aiming to develop targeted therapies. His expertise extends to bioinformatics analysis, large-cohort omics data interpretation, and advanced LC-MS/MS techniques for various biological samples. His research has led to multiple high-impact publications, highlighting his ability to translate complex molecular data into potential clinical applications. By combining experimental and computational approaches, he aims to identify biomarkers and therapeutic targets that can improve cancer treatment. His contributions to proteogenomics play a crucial role in advancing precision oncology and understanding the metabolic reprogramming of aggressive cancers.

 

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Fan Zhang has received multiple awards and recognitions for his contributions to cancer proteogenomics. He was awarded the Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23) Prostate Cancer Research Program (PCRP) Early Investigator Research Award (2023-2025) for his project on targeting glutamine metabolism in advanced prostate cancer (Award Number HT9425-24-1-0237). His research has been recognized through multiple first-author and co-first-author publications in high-impact journals such as Nature Communications, Molecular & Cellular Proteomics, Cell Research, and The Prostate. His work has also been featured as a cover article in Cell Research (2022). His expertise in mass spectrometry, proteogenomics, and bioinformatics has positioned him as a leading young investigator in the field. In addition to research grants, he has received accolades for his innovative contributions to metabolic studies in oncology. His commitment to advancing cancer research has been instrumental in developing novel therapeutic strategies for therapy-resistant malignancies.

Publications 📚