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 📚

Shilpa Kumari | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Ms.Shilpa Kumari | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

 

Sharda University, India

Profile

Education

She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Sharda University since 2020, having completed her coursework with an impressive 84.5%. She holds an M.Sc. in Biotechnology from Chandigarh University, where she secured 79.6% in 2019. Prior to that, she earned her B.Sc. from HNB Garhwal Central University, Srinagar, in 2017 with a score of 66.7%. She completed her 12th grade in the Medical stream under CBSE in 2014 with 74.4% and her 10th grade in General Science in 2012, securing 75.5%.

 

Awards

She has been awarded the Sharda University Research Scholarship (SURS) by Sharda University since February 2021. She received a Silver Medal at the 8th Annual Meeting of the International Association of Zoologists and the 5th International Conference on Recent Trends in Life Sciences and Biotechnology held at Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Haryana, in December 2024. Additionally, she was granted International Travel Support from the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, to present her research at the University Malay, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia, in August 2024. She secured 2nd Prize at the Anveshan International Convention 2023-2024 (North Zone), organized by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) in January 2024. Furthermore, she won the Best Oral Presentation Award at the National Conference on Disease Diagnosis and Drug Development Against Human Pathogens, sponsored by DBT and organized by Muthyammal College of Arts and Science in November 2023.

Book chapters

1. Shilpa Kumari, Neha Verma, Anil Kumar, Sunita Dalal, and Kanu Priya. “Functional
overrepresentation analysis and their application in microbial pathogenesis.” In Systems Biology
Approaches for Host-Pathogen Interaction Analysis, pp. 171-179. Academic Press, 2024.
2. Neha Verma, Shilpa Kumari, Anil Kumar, and Kanu Priya. “Advancements in systems biologybased analysis of microbial pathogenesis.” In Systems Biology Approaches for Host-Pathogen
Interaction Analysis, pp. 181-190. Academic Press, 2024

Publication

Hongjun JIN | Nuclear Medicine Molecular Imaging | Interdisciplinary Innovation Prize

Prof Dr.  Hongjun JIN | Nuclear Medicine Molecular Imaging | Interdisciplinary Innovation Prize

: Sun Yat-sen University Fifth Affiliated Hospital, china

Profile

Education

Dr. Hongjun Jin is a Principal Investigator in Nuclear Medicine and a Doctoral Supervisor of Molecular Medicine at Sun Yat-sen University. He earned his PhD in Biochemistry from Texas A&M University in 2007, following a BS in Radiochemistry from Lanzhou University in 1994 and a BMed in Chinese Medicine from Beijing University of Chinese Medicine in 1997. He completed his postdoctoral training at PNNL from 2008 to 2012 and served as a radiology instructor at Washington University in St. Louis from 2012 to 2017. Since 2017, he has led the PET and radiochemical laboratory at his institute, having been recruited through Sun Yat-sen University’s “Hundred Talents Program.”

Research and Innovations:

1) General Research Fund for National Sciences Foundation of China (NSFC), 82372004,
“F-18 labelled PET probe targeting P2X7 receptor for Evaluation of Treatment for AD”
01/01/2024-12/31/2027¥480,000,
2) Key R&D project, 0007/2022/AKP, Macao S&T Fund (FDCT),“R&D of an Integrated
Molecular probe for Targeted TNFR2 New Tumor Diagnosis and
Treatment”,01/01/2024-12/31/2027,¥2,400,000 (out of ¥120,000,000)
3) Guangdong Provincial Enterprise Joint Fund, 2021A1515220004, Guangdong Province
“PET/MRI Neuromolecular Imaging Quantitative Study of New Drug Targeting Sigma1

Research Project

  • 1) Outstanding Foreign Young Scientist Talent Program, RFIS, 82150610508 NSF-CN,
    “ Establishment and drug evaluation of acetylcholinergic and dopaminergic
    neuromolecular probes (18F VAT and 18F-DTBZ) PET brain imaging quantitative
    system for Parkinson’s disease” 2022/01-2022/12,¥400,000
  • General Research Fund for NSFC, 81871382, “F-18 labelled PET probe targeting P2X7
    receptor for early detection of AD”01/01/2019-12/31/2022¥570,000
  • SYSU “Hundred Talent “Starting Fund (Period I)” SYSU-FA10/01/2017-09/30/2022
    ¥2,500,000
  • National Key R&D Program for Precision Medicine, 2018YFC0910601 Real-time, highdimensional, multi-modality imaging co-registration and theronoastic strategies for
    oesophageal squamous-cell carcinomas10/01/2018-12/31/2020¥1,272,500 (out of
    ¥19,230,000)
  • Sun Yat-sen University Military Industry Cultivation Project, 89000-18843403 SYSU
    “Key Technologies of Molecular Imaging of Immune Dysfunction in Microgravity
    Environment”, 2019/08-2021/12¥1,890,00
  • Researchers Initiate Clinical Research Project (IIT) Award, SYSU-FAH”A single-center,
    open, prospective assessment of the diagnostic significance of 18F-FDG PET/CT
    dynamic imaging and gene sequencing in detecting metastatic lesions of non-small cell
    lung cancer”,2020/10-2021/09¥50,000
  • COVID-19 infection prevention and control emergency S&T, ZH22036302200036PWC,
    Zhuhai City”Specific Targeting S- protein of SARS-CoV-2 PET molecular imaging
    probe”2020/08-2021/09,¥70,000

Citation Index:

Google Scholar Citations: 8684 (total) 7943 (since 2020)
h-index 26(total) 20 (since 2020)
i10-index 52(total) 39(since 2020)

Publications

Nuo Yu | Radiomics | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Nuo Yu | Radiomics | Best Researcher Award

Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College ,China

Nuo Yu is a Ph.D. candidate at the Cancer Institute and Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, specializing in radiation oncology with a focus on esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). His research primarily explores innovative chemoradiotherapy regimens to improve treatment outcomes for patients with locally advanced ESCC.

Yu has contributed to several peer-reviewed publications in SCI-indexed journals. Notably, he co-authored a study titled “Conversion Chemoradiotherapy Combined with Nab-Paclitaxel Plus Cisplatin in Patients with Locally Advanced Borderline-Resectable or Unresectable Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Phase I/II Prospective Cohort Study,” published in Strahlentherapie und Onkologie in August 2024. This research evaluated the efficacy and safety of a novel chemoradiotherapy regimen, demonstrating promising results in locoregional control and overall survival rates.

In March 2023, Yu co-authored another significant study, “Efficacy and Safety of Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy Combined with Nimotuzumab in Elderly Patients with Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Prospective Real-world Pragmatic Study,” published in Current Cancer Drug Targets. This research focused on treatment strategies for elderly patients with ESCC, highlighting the potential benefits of combining chemoradiotherapy with nimotuzumab.

Yu’s work has been recognized at international conferences, including presentations at the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), the Federation of Asian Organizations for Radiation Oncology (FARO), and the Korean Society for Radiation Oncology (KOSRO). These engagements underscore his active participation in the global radiation oncology community and his commitment to advancing cancer treatment research.

While still in the early stages of his career, Yu’s focused research on ESCC and his contributions to the field of radiation oncology position him as a promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Continued efforts to expand his research scope, increase publication impact, and assume leadership roles in larger-scale studies will further strengthen his candidacy.

Profile

Scientific Publications

Rohit Pal | Pharmaceutical Chemistry | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Rohit Pal | Pharmaceutical Chemistry | Young Scientist Award

PhD Scholar at Acharya and BM Reddy College of Pharmacy, Bengaluru, India

Mr. Rohit Pal is a dedicated and emerging researcher in the field of pharmaceutical sciences, particularly focusing on drug discovery and development. Currently pursuing his Ph.D. at Acharya & BM Reddy College of Pharmacy in Bengaluru, he is engaged in innovative research on Pyrimidine derivatives as fourth-generation EGFR inhibitors to combat Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). With a strong academic background, including an M.Pharmacy in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Mr. Pal combines his expertise in chemical synthesis with cutting-edge computational techniques like molecular docking and structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis. His work spans multiple research areas, including anticonvulsant activity, anti-inflammatory research, and the pharmacognostic standardization of endangered species like Passiflora vitifolia. Throughout his career, Mr. Pal has demonstrated a capacity for both in-silico drug design and experimental testing, balancing theoretical approaches with hands-on experimentation. His impressive publication record in respected journals further showcases his capability to contribute to the scientific community. As a promising young researcher, Mr. Pal’s ongoing work not only advances pharmaceutical sciences but also holds potential for meaningful clinical applications in cancer therapy and drug design.

Profile

Orcid

 

Education 🎓

Mr. Rohit Pal’s educational background demonstrates a consistent pursuit of excellence in the field of pharmaceutical sciences. He is currently enrolled in a Ph.D. program at Acharya & BM Reddy College of Pharmacy in Bengaluru, Karnataka, where his research is focused on the development of Pyrimidine derivatives as EGFR inhibitors to target Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). Prior to his doctoral studies, Mr. Pal completed his M.Pharmacy in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from ISF College of Pharmacy in Moga, Punjab, achieving a notable CGPA of 9.07. His academic journey began with a B. Pharmacy from Dev Bhoomi Institute of Pharmacy and Research, Dehradun, where he gained a robust foundation in pharmaceutical sciences. Additionally, Mr. Pal holds a D. Pharmacy from SGGS College of Pharmacy, Chandigarh, further demonstrating his dedication to the field from the onset of his academic career. His varied educational experiences have shaped his interdisciplinary approach to pharmaceutical research, combining knowledge from chemistry, biology, and computational sciences. This solid academic foundation has propelled Mr. Pal to explore complex drug development challenges, particularly in cancer therapy, with a keen interest in molecular-level drug interactions.

Work Experience 💼

Mr. Rohit Pal’s professional experience reflects a promising trajectory in pharmaceutical research and drug discovery. As a Ph.D. scholar at Acharya & BM Reddy College of Pharmacy, he is deeply involved in researching Pyrimidine derivatives for EGFR inhibition in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). His research explores the design, synthesis, and evaluation of novel drug candidates, combining in-vitro testing with computational drug design. Through the use of molecular docking and structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis, Mr. Pal aims to identify compounds with high therapeutic potential. Beyond his Ph.D. work, Mr. Pal has worked on various other research projects, including 1,2,4-triazine derivatives for anticonvulsant activity and the anti-inflammatory properties of Passiflora vitifolia, an endangered plant species. His work spans both synthetic chemistry and biological testing, allowing him to gain expertise in pharmacological assays and computational modeling. Mr. Pal’s professional experience also includes using sophisticated instruments such as HPLC, UV spectrophotometers, and Microwave Synthesizers, which complement his experimental work and ensure the reliability of his results. These experiences have positioned him well for future leadership roles in pharmaceutical research and drug developmen

Awards and Honors

Although still in the early stages of his academic career, Mr. Rohit Pal has already garnered significant recognition for his research efforts. His academic excellence is reflected in his M.Pharmacy CGPA of 9.07, placing him among the top students in his cohort. Mr. Pal’s research has been published in reputable journals such as the Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics and Chemical Physics Impact, demonstrating the impact and quality of his work. These publications are indicative of his ability to produce research that contributes to the scientific community. Despite being early in his career, his involvement in cutting-edge research on Pyrimidine derivatives and EGFR inhibitors has already gained attention within the academic and pharmaceutical fields. His dedication to molecular docking, drug design, and pharmacognostic studies positions him for further recognition. As Mr. Pal continues to contribute to innovative drug development solutions, he is likely to receive more prestigious awards and honors, reflecting the growing importance of his work in cancer research and pharmaceutical chemistry.

Research Interests

Mr. Rohit Pal’s research interests are centered around the intersection of pharmaceutical chemistry and drug discovery. His primary focus is on developing Pyrimidine derivatives as fourth-generation EGFR inhibitors aimed at Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), a serious health concern with limited therapeutic options. By targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), his work could offer more effective treatment alternatives for cancer patients. In addition to cancer research, Mr. Pal has explored 1,2,4-triazine derivatives for evaluating anticonvulsant activity, contributing to neurological disorder treatments. He is also interested in anti-inflammatory research, with a particular focus on Passiflora vitifolia, an endangered plant species, aiming to standardize its pharmacognostic properties. His multidisciplinary approach extends to the application of computational drug design, where he utilizes molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations to predict drug-receptor interactions. Mr. Pal is committed to advancing drug development by combining experimental chemistry with in-silico methodologies, offering innovative solutions for complex healthcare challenges. His work on drug repurposing, targeted therapies, and sustainable drug sourcing reflects his holistic approach to addressing both scientific and global health concerns.

Research Skills

Mr. Rohit Pal possesses a wide range of research skills essential for successful pharmaceutical research. His proficiency in chemical synthesis includes techniques such as recrystallization, sublimation, and flash chromatography, which he applies to purify and isolate new compounds for testing. In addition to these laboratory techniques, Mr. Pal is highly skilled in analytical methods, including HPLC and UV spectrophotometry, to assess the purity and chemical composition of compounds. He is also adept at utilizing computational tools for drug design, particularly AutoDock, Biovia Drug Discovery Studio, and Pymol, to perform molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations. These tools allow him to predict the interactions between drug candidates and their targets, enhancing the efficiency of drug development. Furthermore, Mr. Pal has experience in in-vitro biological testing, including assays for anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, ensuring the biological relevance of his synthesized compounds. His ability to combine experimental techniques with computational modeling equips him to approach drug discovery from both theoretical and practical angles, ensuring well-rounded and impactful research outcomes.

📚 Publications

  • Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation of novel 4-(4-ethoxyphenyl)-6-(substituted-phenyl)pyrimidin-2-amine/thiol/hydroxy derivatives as EGFRWT and EGFRT790M inhibitors targeting NSCLC: In-vitro and in-silico exploration
    • Journal: Journal of Molecular Structure
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2024.141227
    • Date: April 2025
    • Contributors: Rohit Pal; Gurubasavaraja Swamy Purawarga Matada; Ghanshyam Teli; Viney Chawla; Pooja A. Chawla
  • Next-generation cancer therapeutics: PROTACs and the role of heterocyclic warheads in targeting resistance
    • Journal: European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.117034
    • Date: January 2025
    • Contributors: Ebna Azizal Omar; Rajesh R.; Pronoy Kanti Das; Rohit Pal; Gurubasavaraja Swamy Purawarga Matada; Lalmohan Maji
  • Benzothiazole a privileged scaffold for cutting-edge anticancer agents: Exploring drug design, structure-activity relationship, and docking studies
    • Journal: European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2024.116831
    • Date: December 2024
    • Contributors: Aayishamma I; Gurubasavaraja Swamy Purawarga Matada; Rohit Pal; Abhishek Ghara; Nimmagadda Venkata Satya Sai Aishwarya; Kumaraswamy B; Ketan R. Hosamani; Manjushree B V; Haripriya E
  • An outlook of docking analysis and structure-activity relationship of pyrimidine-based analogues as EGFR inhibitors against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
    • Journal: Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics
    • DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2252082
    • Date: December 11, 2024
    • Contributors: Rohit Pal; Ghanshyam Teli; Sindhuja Sengupta; Lalmohan Maji; Gurubasavaraja Swamy Purawarga Matada
  • Exploring the anticancer potential of triazine derivatives: An outlook of designing strategies, docking studies, and structure-activity relationships (SAR)
    • Journal: ChemistrySelect
    • DOI: 10.1002/slct.202402766
    • Date: November 2024
    • Contributors: B. V. Manjushree; Gurubasavaraja Swamy Purawarga Matada; Rohit Pal; Md. Ashadul Sk; M. P. Viji; Nimmagadda Venkata Satya Sai Aishwarya; Pronoy Kanti Das; I. Aayishamma; S. Mounika
  • Pyrazole, pyrazoline, and fused pyrazole derivatives: New horizons in EGFR-targeted anticancer agents
    • Journal: Chemistry & Biodiversity
    • DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202400880
    • Date: November 2024
    • Contributors: Ketan R Hosamani; Hemalatha K; Rohit Pal; Gurubasavaraja Swamy Purawarga Matada; Kumaraswamy B; Aayishamma I; Nimmagadda Venkata Satya Sai Aishwarya

Conclusion 

Mr. Rohit Pal is an exceptionally talented and promising researcher in the field of pharmaceutical sciences. His research, focused on Pyrimidine derivatives as EGFR inhibitors for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), is not only innovative but holds significant promise for advancing cancer treatment. His combination of chemical synthesis, computational drug design, and biological testing reflects his multidisciplinary approach to pharmaceutical research. Mr. Pal’s commitment to anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, and pharmacognostic standardization further demonstrates his versatility as a researcher. While still in the early stages of his career, his publication record and expertise in molecular docking and drug design suggest that he is well on his way to becoming a leader in pharmaceutical research. His ongoing work could contribute to groundbreaking advancements in cancer therapy, neurological disorder treatments, and sustainable drug sourcing. With his strong educational background, solid professional experience, and growing body of work, Mr. Rohit Pal is undoubtedly a candidate with the potential to make meaningful contributions to drug development and global health. His future in research looks bright, and he is well-positioned for recognition in upcoming awards such as the Young Scientist Award.