Diane Harper | Precision Medicine | Distinguished Scientist Award

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Prof. Dr Diane Harper | Precision Medicine | Distinguished Scientist Award

Prof. Dr Diane Harper | University of MIchigan | United States

Prof. Dr. Diane M. Harper is a globally recognized physician-scientist, educator, and leader in women’s health, family medicine, and preventive oncology. She earned her SB and SM degrees in Chemical Engineering and Polymerics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), followed by her MD and MPH in Biostatistics/Epidemiology from the University of Kansas Medical School. Complementing her medical and public health expertise, she completed numerous prestigious postgraduate fellowships and executive leadership programs, including the Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine (ELAM) Program, University of Michigan Ross School of Business Leadership Development, and US PHS Primary Care Fellowship in Washington, D.C. Over her distinguished career, Dr. Harper has held senior academic and administrative appointments at leading institutions including Dartmouth College, University of Missouri–Kansas City, University of Louisville, and currently the University of Michigan, where she serves as a Professor of Family Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Women’s and Gender Studies, and Affiliate Faculty in Biomedical Engineering. Her interdisciplinary expertise bridges medicine, engineering, and public health to improve women’s health outcomes worldwide. Internationally acclaimed for her pioneering work on Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer prevention, Dr. Harper has been instrumental in the development and clinical validation of HPV vaccines, advancing screening technologies, and establishing evidence-based guidelines for HPV-associated disease management. Her research spans clinical trials, shared decision-making, health equity, and policy reform, emphasizing underserved and physically disabled populations.

Profiles: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Quinn, J. A., Munoz, F. M., Gonik, B., Frau, L., Cutland, C., Mallett-Moore, T., … & Harper, D. M. (2016). Preterm birth: Case definition & guidelines for data collection, analysis, and presentation of immunisation safety data. Vaccine, 34(49), 6047–6056.

Harper, D. M., DeMars, L. R. (2017). HPV vaccines – A review of the first decade. Gynecologic Oncology, 146(1), 196–204.

Tota, J. E., Struyf, F., Merikukka, M., Gonzalez, P., Kreimer, A. R., Bi, D., … & Harper, D. M. (2017). Evaluation of type replacement following HPV16/18 vaccination: pooled analysis of two randomized trials. Journal of the National Cancer Institute, 109(7), djw300.

Gorin, S. S., Jimbo, M., Heizelman, R., Harmes, K. M., & Harper, D. M. (2021). The future of cancer screening after COVID‐19 may be at home. Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Dykens, J. A., Peterson, C. E., Holt, H. K., & Harper, D. M. (2023). Gender neutral HPV vaccination programs: Reconsidering policies to expand cancer prevention globally. Frontiers in Public Health, 11, 1067299.

Benedetta Fantaci | Biomedical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Benedetta Fantaci | Biomedical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Benedetta Fantaci | Universidad de Zaragoza | Spain

Dr. Benedetta Fantaci is a distinguished biomedical engineer recognized for her pioneering work in ocular biomechanics and computational modeling. Her research focuses on developing advanced corneal digital twins to enhance precision in laser refractive surgery and deepen understanding of corneal diseases like keratoconus. Through innovative finite-element opto-biomechanical simulations, she bridges the gap between engineering and ophthalmology. Her collaborative projects span several leading European institutions, addressing challenges in eye growth, vascular remodeling, and biomechanical tissue behavior. She has contributed to multiple high-impact publications and served in key scientific and organizational roles at international biomechanics conferences. Her research continues to influence global advances in vision science and biomedical innovation.

Profile: Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Fantaci, B., Calvo, B., & Rodríguez, J. F. (2024). Modeling biological growth of human keratoconus: On the effect of tissue degradation, location and size. Computers in Biology and Medicine, 180, 108976. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compbiomed.2024.108976

Fantaci, B., Calvo, B., Barraquer, R., Picó, A., & Ariza-Gracia, M. Á. (2024). Establishing standardization guidelines for finite-element optomechanical simulations of refractive laser surgeries: An application to photorefractive keratectomy. Translational Vision Science & Technology, 13(5), 11–11. https://doi.org/10.1167/tvst.13.5.11

Franceschelli, C., & Fantaci, B. (2020). Implementazione di un algoritmo elastostatico inverso con linearizzazione esatta per determinare la geometria vascolare scarica.

Fantaci, B., Calvo, B., Mesa, A. M., & Ortillés, A. (2025). Comparative evaluation of the mechanical properties of amniotic membranes for corneal grafting: Effects of cryopreservation, lyophilization, and dehydration. Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials, 107234. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmbbm.2025.107234

Fantaci, B., Rodríguez Matas, J. F., Squartecchia, V., Vavassori, L., & Calvo, B. (2025). Unraveling the impact of laser refractive surgery on corneal ectasia: An in silico study. Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, 13, 1548539. https://doi.org/10.3389/fbioe.2025.1548539

Amit Gupta | Drug Development | Best Faculty Award

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Dr. Amit Gupta | Drug Development | Best Faculty Award

Dr. Amit Gupta | Chemistry Department Institute of Basic Sciences Dr. B R Ambedkar University Agra | India

Dr. Amit Gupta is a distinguished chemist with an extensive academic background in organic and inorganic chemistry, complemented by a doctoral degree in the study of mercury peroxychromate complexes. With a long teaching career spanning undergraduate to doctoral levels, he has significantly contributed to shaping future researchers and advancing chemical education. His research interests cover coordination chemistry, phytochemistry, and trace metal analysis, with numerous publications and books to his credit. Recognized through awards and active participation in national and international conferences, he continues to make impactful contributions to the fields of chemistry and pharmaceutical sciences.

Academic Profile 

Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Amit Gupta holds dual Master’s degrees in Organic and Inorganic Chemistry, followed by a Ph.D. in Chemistry from Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University, Agra. His doctoral research focused on the study of mercury peroxychromate and its complexes with nitrogen bases, which provided him with a strong foundation in coordination chemistry and analytical techniques. He has also earned the distinction of being a Fellow of the Indian Council of Chemists (FICC) and has pursued specialized certification in data analysis for life sciences. His academic journey reflects both breadth and depth in chemical sciences, establishing a solid base for his teaching and research career.

Experience

Dr. Gupta has more than two decades of rich teaching experience across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. He has taught B.Sc., M.Sc., M.Phil., and Ph.D. coursework in chemistry and has guided students with academic rigor and research orientation. He has contributed to the academic growth of institutions by teaching core subjects and mentoring research scholars. His long-standing association with the Department of Chemistry at the Institute of Basic Science, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University, has enabled him to play a pivotal role in shaping future scientists. Alongside teaching, he has authored textbooks in inorganic, organic, and physical chemistry, further extending his impact on the academic community.

Research Interests

Dr. Gupta’s research interests lie in inorganic and coordination chemistry, phytochemistry, and trace metal analysis. He has extensively studied peroxychromates and their complexes, exploring their oxidative behavior and decomposition pathways. His later research expanded into phytochemical screening and the isolation of bioactive compounds from medicinal plants, including studies on flavonoids and antioxidants. He has also investigated trace and heavy metal accumulation in plant systems using modern analytical methods, linking his work to environmental chemistry and human health. His publications reflect a blend of fundamental chemical studies and applied research with multidisciplinary relevance.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Gupta has been recognized for his academic and research contributions through awards and honors at inter-collegiate and professional platforms. His first-prize achievement in an e-poster competition on nanomaterials and quantum dots highlights his ability to connect advanced concepts in chemistry with innovative presentation. He has actively participated in numerous national and international conferences, workshops, and seminars, showcasing his research and engaging in scholarly exchange. His membership as FICC further underscores his standing in the professional chemistry community, marking him as a respected educator, researcher, and contributor to the advancement of chemical sciences.

Publications

Isolation and characterization of flavonoid glycoside from leaves of Abrus precatorius

Authors: J. Gupta, G. Amit
Journal: International Journal of Chemical Studies
Year: 2014

Determination of trace metals in the leaves of Rauwolfia serpentina by using atomic absorption spectroscopy

Authors: J. Gupta, A. Gupta
Journal: International Journal of Chemical Studies
Year: 2016

Isolation and identification of flavonoid rutin from Rauwolfia serpentina

Authors: J. Gupta, A. Gupta
Journal: International Journal of Chemical Studies
Year: 2015

 Preliminary phytochemical screening of leaves of Moringa oleifera Lam

Authors: J. Gupta, A. Gupta, K. Gupta
Journal: Journal Chemtracks
Year: 2014

Isolation and characterization of flavonoid from leaves of Abrus precatorius

Authors: J. Gupta, A. Gupta
Journal: International Journal of Current Research in Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Year: 2016

Studies on the chemical constituents of leaves of Phyllanthus emblica (L.)

Authors: J. Gupta, A. Gupta, A.K. Gupta
Journal: Oriental Journal of Chemistry
Year: 2014

Extraction and identification of flavonoid natural antioxidant in the leaves of Rauwolfia serpentina

Authors: J. Gupta, A. Gupta, A.K. Gupta
Journal: International Journal of Chemical Studies
Year: 2016

Conclusion

Dr. Amit Gupta’s outstanding academic journey, extensive teaching experience, and impactful research contributions make him a distinguished scholar in the field of chemistry. His dedication to advancing scientific knowledge, mentoring future researchers, and publishing widely demonstrates both depth and breadth of expertise. With a proven record of innovation and commitment to excellence, he is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Faculty Award.

Xiao Sheng | Drug Development | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Xiao Sheng | Drug Development | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiao Sheng | Naval Medical University School of Pharmacy | China

Dr. Sheng Xiao, affiliated with the Navy Medical University, China, is a dedicated researcher in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology with a strong focus on intestinal stem cell biology, aging, and traditional Chinese medicine. He has led and contributed to major national and provincial projects exploring molecular mechanisms of aging, gut regeneration, and herbal medicine efficacy. With impactful publications in high-ranking journals such as Nature Communications, PLoS Biology, and Phytomedicine, Dr. Xiao has advanced understanding of intestinal injury repair, antioxidant mechanisms, and gut–brain interactions. Recognized with prestigious honors including the “Shizhen” Scholar (2025), he actively contributes to professional societies and serves on multiple editorial boards, bridging fundamental research with translational applications in medicine and nutrition.

Academic Profile 

orcid

Education

Dr. Sheng Xiao received his academic training in biochemistry and molecular biology, where he built a strong foundation in molecular mechanisms underlying cellular processes, aging, and disease development. His education emphasized both traditional biochemical approaches and modern molecular biology techniques, enabling him to integrate classical knowledge with cutting-edge research in cell signaling, stem cell biology, and the therapeutic potential of natural compounds. Through this academic journey, he developed expertise in experimental design, translational medicine, and the intersection of traditional Chinese medicine with modern molecular research.

Experience

Dr. Xiao has established himself as a researcher at the Navy Medical University, where he has undertaken leadership roles in national and provincial research projects. He has served as a principal investigator on studies focusing on sleep disorder–related intestinal injury, nuclear lamina proteins in tumor development, and the therapeutic potential of herbal medicine. Beyond leading projects, he has actively collaborated on multidisciplinary programs supported by national funding bodies, contributing to advancements in gut regeneration, stem cell differentiation, and herbal pharmacology. His experience extends to academic service, where he contributes as an editor and active member of multiple scientific organizations, fostering international collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Research Interests

Dr. Xiao’s research interests span intestinal stem cell biology, aging-related diseases, molecular signaling pathways, and the therapeutic applications of traditional Chinese medicine. His work focuses on understanding how natural compounds influence gut regeneration and repair mechanisms, particularly through pathways such as Keap1–Nrf2 and srebp-mediated regulation. He also explores the molecular interactions between aging, gut health, and neurobiology through the brain–gut axis, providing insights into novel therapeutic strategies. Additionally, he integrates modern molecular biology techniques with traditional knowledge to develop innovative approaches that bridge fundamental discoveries with clinical application.

Awards

Dr. Xiao has received multiple recognitions for his scientific contributions, including awards for outstanding poster presentations at international congresses and national prizes in traditional Chinese medicine research forums. His achievements highlight his innovative approaches and strong impact within both basic and applied biomedical sciences. He has also been honored with distinguished scholar recognition for his excellence in research and commitment to advancing molecular biology and traditional medicine integration. These awards reflect his dedication to scientific innovation and his role as a promising leader in biomedical research.

Publications

Unlocking nature’s medicine cabinet through Drosophila–Driven exploration

Author: Xiao Sheng, Jianzheng He, Lei Zhang
Journal: Phytomedicine
Year: 2025

Werner syndrome exonuclease promotes gut regeneration and causes age-associated gut hyperplasia in Drosophila

Author: Kun Wu, Juanyu Zhou, Yiming Tang, Qiaoqiao Zhang, Lishou Xiong, Xiaorong Li, Zhangpeng Zhuo, Mei Luo, Yu Yuan, Xingzhu Liu, et al.
Journal: PLOS Biology
Year: 2025

Phase separation of BuGZ regulates gut regeneration and aging through interaction with m6A regulators

Author: Qiaoqiao Zhang, Kai Deng, Mengyou Liu, Shengye Yang, Wei Xu, Tong Feng, Minwen Jie, Zhiming Liu, Xiao Sheng, Haiyang Chen, et al.
Journal: Nature Communications
Year: 2023

ClC‐c regulates the proliferation of intestinal stem cells via the EGFR signalling pathway in Drosophila

Author: Jinping Huang, Xiao Sheng, Zhangpeng Zhuo, Danqing Xiao, Kun Wu, Gang Wan, Haiyang Chen
Journal: Cell Proliferation
Year: 2022

Antioxidant Effects of Caffeic Acid Lead to Protection of Drosophila Intestinal Stem Cell Aging

Author: Xiao Sheng, Yuedan Zhu, Juanyu Zhou, La Yan, Gang Du, Zhiming Liu, Haiyang Chen
Journal: Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology
Year: 2021

Aging-related upregulation of the homeobox gene caudal represses intestinal stem cell differentiation in Drosophila

Author: Kun Wu, Yiming Tang, Qiaoqiao Zhang, Zhangpeng Zhuo, Xiao Sheng, Jingping Huang, Jie’er Ye, Xiaorong Li, Zhiming Liu, Haiyang Chen
Journal: PLOS Genetics
Year: 2021

Conclusion

Dr. Sheng Xiao’s groundbreaking research, leadership in prestigious projects, and commitment to advancing biochemistry and molecular biology make him an outstanding candidate. His contributions have not only deepened scientific understanding but also paved the way for innovative therapeutic applications, positioning him as a highly suitable recipient of the Best Researcher Award.

FURONG LI | Medical Discoveries | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Dr. FURONG LI | Medical Discoveries | Outstanding Scientist Award

Dr. FURONG LI, Shenzhen People’s Hospital, China

Dr. Fu-Rong Li, MD, PhD, is the Director of the Translational Medicine Collaborative Innovation Center at the First Affiliated Hospital (Shenzhen People’s Hospital) of the Southern University of Science and Technology, China. With a prolific academic background in clinical medicine, parasitology, and molecular biology, Dr. Li has made significant contributions in stem cell research, cancer immunotherapy, nanomedicine, and regenerative medicine. Over the course of his distinguished career, he has authored more than 80 peer-reviewed papers and holds several national patents. His pioneering work continues to influence the fields of translational and precision medicine both nationally and internationally.

🧬 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Fu-Rong Li embarked on his medical journey with an M.D. from Ningxia Medical College in 1984, followed by a Master’s degree in Parasitic Diseases with a focus on hydatidosis at Lanzhou Medical College in 1991. His academic dedication culminated in a Ph.D. in Molecular and Immune Parasitology from Tongji Medical University in 1999. These formative years laid the groundwork for his enduring contributions to translational medicine, immunotherapy, and stem cell biology. His research curiosity took root early, especially in the intersection of infectious diseases and immune response, which later evolved into a lifelong dedication to stem cell differentiation, regenerative medicine, and cancer immunotherapy.

🏥 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Li currently serves as the Director of the Translational Medicine Collaborative Innovation Center at Shenzhen People’s Hospital, affiliated with the Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech). Since 1999, he has held progressive roles from Assistant Professor to Professor, contributing significantly to the evolution of translational medicine in China. His early career included a stint as an Attending Physician in the Department of Digestive Medicine at Ningxia Medical University (1984–1988), followed by senior research and teaching roles at Lanzhou University’s Hydatid Research Laboratory. His professional trajectory showcases his dual capabilities in clinical practice and cutting-edge biomedical research.

🔬 Research Focus and Contributions

Dr. Li is internationally recognized for his pioneering work in stem cell biology, regenerative therapies, cancer diagnostics, and nanomedicine. His research contributions are vast, with over 85 peer-reviewed publications, covering topics like:

  • Differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into pancreatic β cells.

  • Cancer proteomics and exosomal signaling in lung adenocarcinoma.

  • Nano-immunodiagnostic tools for infectious and oncological diseases.

  • Single-cell analysis of non-coding RNAs in stem cell differentiation and immunity.

  • Development of novel multi-omics frameworks for understanding tumor biology.

His work has been published in prestigious journals such as Stem Cell Research & Therapy, Advanced Science, Cell Death & Disease, and NPJ Genomic Medicine.

🧪 Innovation and Patents

Dr. Li holds nine Chinese national invention patents, reflecting his commitment to translational applications of research. His inventions include:

  • Methods for iPSC to pancreatic cell differentiation via miRNAs.

  • Novel liquid chip-based miRNA detection kits.

  • Dual-labeled gold nanoprobes for diagnostic purposes.

  • Preparation methods for nano-magnetic drug microspheres.

These patents highlight his role as a scientific innovator and entrepreneurial researcher, bridging laboratory discoveries with real-world applications.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Li’s research excellence has earned him national and institutional recognition, especially for his work on diabetic wound healing, tumor immunotherapy, and stem cell engineering. His research has contributed to clinical advancements in personalized medicine and biomaterial-assisted stem cell therapy. He is frequently invited to speak at international conferences, reflecting his status as a leading expert in translational medicine and regenerative biology in China and beyond.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Through mentoring emerging scientists, supervising graduate students, and leading interdisciplinary collaborations, Dr. Li has cultivated a strong academic legacy. He is a bridge between fundamental biology and clinical medicine, influencing drug delivery systems, immunotherapy protocols, and biosensing platforms used globally. His work in lung cancer biology, in particular, has offered insights into cancer metastasis, immune checkpoint modulation, and exosome-mediated signaling pathways—laying the foundation for next-generation immunotherapies.

🔭 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a respected leader in Shenzhen’s biomedical ecosystem, Dr. Fu-Rong Li continues to shape the future of regenerative medicine, nanotechnology, and translational diagnostics. With over four decades of combined clinical and research expertise, he remains committed to advancing therapies for diabetes, cancer, and immune diseases. Looking ahead, Dr. Li is expected to contribute significantly to the integration of AI, single-cell sequencing, and precision medicine for real-time diagnostics and personalized treatment. His multidisciplinary approach ensures that his legacy will influence generations of scientists and physicians to come.

✍️Notable Publications

SLC4A7 suppresses lung adenocarcinoma oncogenesis by reducing lactate transport and protein lactylation

Author:  Haojie Yan , Qian He, Yubiao Gao, Xiaomei He, Haitao Luo, Lijuan Shao, Jun Dong, Furong Li

Journal: International Journal of Oncology .,

Year: 2025

Plant-Derived Extracellular Vesicles as Potential Emerging Tools for Cancer Therapeutics

Author: Lin Ding, Chih-Jung Chang, Min-Li Liang, Kang-Mei Dong, Fu-Rong Li

Journal: Advanced Therapeutics

Year: 2024

Novel DNA Biosensing Platform for Detecting HIV Integrase for Highly Sensitive and Quantitative HIV Detection, Diagnosis, and Therapeutic Monitoring

Author:  Fuming Chen, Jing Wang, Jie Ma, Li Song, Haojie Yan, Feng Wang, Zhengrong Yang, Furong Li