Zhe Zhang | Cardiovascular Genetics | Outstanding Scientist Award

Dr. Zhe Zhang | Cardiovascular Genetics | Outstanding Scientist Award

Zhuhai People’s Hospital | China

Dr. Zhe Zhang, MD, PhD, is a distinguished Chinese physician–scientist and attending cardiologist at the Department of Cardiology, Zhuhai People’s Hospital, where she also serves as an associate researcher. Trained at Xi’an Jiaotong University School of Medicine, she holds a PhD in Cardiology along with advanced degrees in medical imaging, nuclear medicine, and clinical medicine. Dr. Zhang’s research centers on cardiovascular genetics and the genomics of diseases, integrating clinical cardiology with whole-genome sequencing, single-cell RNA sequencing, and multi-omics approaches to uncover molecular mechanisms underlying congenital and inherited heart diseases. She has authored influential publications in leading journals such as Scientific Data, Cell Reports, and Clinical and Translational Medicine, and has contributed valuable public genomic datasets to the global research community. Her translational work effectively bridges experimental genomics and clinically relevant cardiovascular phenotypes, positioning her as a strong candidate for the Outstanding Scientist Award.

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Liu Changlai | Genetic Variation | Excellence Award (Any Scientific field)

Prof. Liu Changlai | Genetic Variation | Excellence Award 

Nanjing Forestry University | China

Prof. Liu Changlai is a graduate supervisor at Nanjing Forestry University and a distinguished scholar in plant molecular biology and bamboo science. His research centers on the regulation and applied processing of secondary metabolites in bamboo, alongside bamboo population genetics and functional gene development, integrating genomics, transcriptomics, and physiological approaches. Professor Liu has made significant contributions to understanding photosynthesis regulation, stress responses, and transcription factor families across bamboo and other plant species, with impactful studies published in leading journals such as Plants, Industrial Crops and Products, Forests, and Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences. His work spans fundamental gene identification to applied innovations, including medical bamboo product processing and stress-resilient crop improvement. Through sustained, high-quality research output and mentorship, Professor Liu continues to advance plant functional genomics and the sustainable utilization of bamboo resources.

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Helala AlShehri | Cancer Genetics | Research Excellence Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Helala AlShehri | Cancer Genetics | Research Excellence Award

Jubail Industrial College | Saudi Arabia

Assist. Prof. Dr. Helala Mohammad AlShehri is an Assistant Professor of Computer Science and Deputy for Planning and Development at Jubail Industrial College, Saudi Arabia. She earned her PhD in Computer Science from King Saud University and brings together strong academic leadership with advanced research expertise in artificial intelligence and deep learning. Dr. AlShehri has held several senior administrative roles, including department chair and head of student and academic affairs, contributing significantly to institutional planning, quality assurance, and academic accreditation. Her research focuses on AI-driven medical image analysis, particularly histopathological image classification for cancer diagnosis, explainable AI, and computer-aided decision support. She has published nine peer-reviewed articles in SCI- and Scopus-indexed journals, with over 140 citations. Dr. AlShehri actively collaborates with national and international researchers and serves as a peer reviewer for leading AI and medical imaging journals.

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Featured Publications

Melesse Tadesse | Molecular Genetics | Excellence Award

Mr. Melesse Tadesse | Molecular Genetics | Excellence Award

University Of Wolaita Sodo | Ethiopia

Mr. Melesse Tadesse Upa (MSc), a highly dedicated Ethiopian biotechnologist, currently serves as the Head and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Biotechnology at Wolaita Sodo University, Ethiopia, where he has been contributing since 2021 after earlier roles as a Biology teacher in Dawro zone. Born on 28 July 1995 in Essera Wereda of the Dawro zone, he holds an MSc in Biotechnology from Arba Minch University, a B.Sc. in Biology and a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching from Hawassa University, complemented by extensive professional certifications including a Higher Diploma License, English proficiency, GIS tools (ArcGIS, QGIS, Python), and a Master Class in Online Teaching. His research interests span food microbiology, microbial physiology, traditional toxicology, molecular food microbiology, soil microbiology, microbial ecology, bacterial wilt disease, toxicogenomics, heavy metal–gene–protein interactions, and metabolite analysis from medicinal plants. With strong skills in laboratory and fieldwork, molecular techniques, biostatistics, fermentation engineering, microscopy, plant tissue culture, and advanced data analysis tools (SPSS, Origin, GIS), he has taught a wide range of undergraduate biotechnology and biology courses including Molecular Biology, Environmental Biotechnology, Industrial Biotechnology, and Microbial Biotechnology. Melesse is an articulate and highly motivated scientist known for his ability to work under pressure, communicate research outputs effectively, and lead innovative laboratory research collaborations. His MSc thesis focused on isolating and evaluating fermenting microorganisms from enset (kocho) as potential starter cultures, and he has published on the physicochemical and microbial community dynamics of kocho fermentation. He is proficient in English and Amharic and is supported by strong professional references from established researchers at Arba Minch University.

Profiles: Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

"Recent Advances in Enzyme Immobilization: The Role of Artificial Intelligence, Novel Nanomaterials, and Dynamic Carrier Systems", M Tadesse, Y Liu Catalysts., 2025.

"Physicochemical and microbial community dynamics of Kocho fermented from different enset varieties in South West Ethiopia", M Tadesse, FO Ajibade, M Minale, A Mekonnen, A Guadie Heliyon., 2025.

Dongli Pan | Herpesvirus Infection | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Dongli Pan | Herpesvirus Infection | Best Researcher Award

Zhejiang University School of Medicine | China

Dr. Prof. Dongli Pan is a distinguished biochemist whose research has significantly advanced the understanding of viral pathogenesis and host-virus interactions. She earned her Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia (2001–2007), where her dissertation focused on the fast kinetics of tRNA movement on the ribosome during bacterial translation elongation, following a B.S. in Chemistry from Peking University, Beijing (1997–2001). Currently a Professor at the Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Dr. Pan’s major research interests center on the mechanisms of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection and pathogenesis, HSV-host interactions, and anti-HSV drug development. Her research excellence has been recognized through several competitive national grants, including major projects funded by the National Key R&D Project of China and the National Natural Science Foundation of China, with total funding exceeding several million RMB. Dr. Pan has led and contributed to groundbreaking studies on viral latency, host microRNAs, and innate immune responses to DNA viruses. Before joining Zhejiang University, she conducted postdoctoral research at Harvard Medical School and the University of Pennsylvania, deepening her expertise in molecular virology. In addition to her research, Dr. Pan is a dedicated educator, actively involved in undergraduate and graduate teaching at Zhejiang University and the Zhejiang University–University of Edinburgh Institute, where she organizes and lectures in courses such as Infection 3, Pathogens, and Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, fostering the next generation of biomedical scientists through her bilingual instruction and mentorship.

Profiles: Scopus

Featured Publications

"Inhibitory effect of Alantolactone against varicella-zoster virus in vitro", Virology JournalThis link is disabled., 2025.

"A potent protective bispecific nanobody targeting Herpes simplex virus gD reveals vulnerable epitope for neutralizing",Nature CommunicationsThis link is disabled., 2025.

"Discovery of Novel Piperazinone-Fused Hydroxypyridinones Inhibiting Herpes Simplex Virus Gene Transcription and Viral Replication", Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 2025.

"Quantification and analysis of thymidine kinase expression from acyclovir-resistant G-string insertion and deletion mutants in herpes simplex virus-infected cells", J. Virol, 2025.

Dina Jiesisibieke | Reproductive Health | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Dina Jiesisibieke | Reproductive Health | Best Researcher Award

Peking University Third Hospital | China

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📌 DINA JIESISIBIEKE, M.D. CANDIDATE

🏥 CLINICAL MEDICINE AT PEKING UNIVERSITY THIRD HOSPITAL Peking University

🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dina Jiesisibieke embarked on her medical journey at Peking University Third Hospital, where she has been pursuing a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree since 2019. With an impressive GPA of 3.7/4.0, she has consistently demonstrated academic excellence and dedication to the field of clinical medicine. Her early academic years were marked by outstanding achievements, securing multiple scholarships and honors for her exceptional performance.

🏆 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Beyond her academic pursuits, Dina has actively engaged in research and international exchange programs. In 2023, she participated in an exchange program at Mahidol University, where she gained hands-on experience in plastic surgery. This international exposure has broadened her clinical expertise and provided her with a global perspective on medical practices.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH

Dina's research primarily focuses on reproductive medicine, specifically evaluating reproductive outcomes of conventional in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Her work was recognized at the prestigious American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) conference in 2023, where she submitted a research abstract detailing her cohort study on reproductive outcomes.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dina's contributions extend beyond academic excellence, as she actively participates in scholarly discourse and medical research. Her involvement in clinical studies and international exchange programs positions her as an emerging leader in the medical field. Through her dedication to medical research and clinical training, she continues to inspire and set a benchmark for aspiring medical professionals.

📚 ACADEMIC CITATIONS

Her research has been recognized at a high level, with a conference abstract submitted to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. This recognition highlights her growing influence in reproductive medicine and her commitment to contributing valuable insights to the medical community.

🏅 SCHOLARSHIPS AND AWARDS

Dina has been the recipient of numerous prestigious scholarships and awards, recognizing her academic excellence and dedication:

  • Merit Student of Peking University
  • Peking University Southwest Associated University Guan Yanhui Medical Education Scholarship (2019-2021)
  • Model Student of Academic Records of Peking University (2020-2024)
  • Peking University Weicai Pharmaceutical Scholarship (2021-2022)

🌟 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As an aspiring physician, Dina Jiesisibieke is committed to advancing the field of clinical medicine and reproductive health. Her contributions to research, combined with her strong academic foundation and clinical experience, set the stage for a promising career in medicine. With continued dedication, she is poised to make a lasting impact in the field of reproductive medicine and beyond.

📑NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

"Prevalence of eye and adnexal disorders among elderly inmates in Taiwan prisons

  • Authors: C., Tsai, Chingyao , Z.L., Jiesisibieke, Zhu Liduzi , P., Tao, Ping , C., Chien, Chingwen , T., Tung, Taohsin
  • Journal: BMC Public Health
  • Year: 2024

Liang Liu | Molecular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Liang Liu | Molecular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Xiamen University | China

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🌟 Biography of Dr. Liang Liu 🌟

🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Liang Liu began his journey in the field of life sciences with a Bachelor of Science degree from the School of Life Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities (2006–2010). His academic curiosity led him to pursue a Ph.D. at the School of Biology and Biological Engineering, South China University of Technology, where he delved into the intricate world of molecular biology (2010–2015).

🏛️ PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

After earning his Ph.D., Dr. Liu undertook postdoctoral research at the prestigious Institute of Biophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences (2015–2019). Since 2019, he has been a professor at the School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University. He also holds roles as a professor at the State Key Laboratory of Cell Stress Biology and Xiang’an Hospital Affiliated to Xiamen University.

Dr. Liu's leadership and expertise are further amplified through his contributions as a doctoral supervisor, shaping the next generation of researchers in molecular biology and gene editing.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON MOLECULAR NEUROSCIENCE

Dr. Liang Liu’s research portfolio spans cutting-edge domains:

  1. Gene Editing and Diagnostic Tools: Developing and applying innovative tools for gene editing and molecular diagnostics.
  2. Prokaryotic Defense and Viral Antagonism: Exploring molecular mechanisms of prokaryotic defense systems, including CRISPR-Cas systems, and viral strategies for evading host immunity.
  3. Nucleic Acid Processing: Investigating RNA processing, regulation, and nucleic acid methylation modifications.
  4. Structural Biology of RNA: Elucidating RNA-mediated gene expression and regulation through advanced structural biology techniques.

His groundbreaking research has unveiled mechanisms underlying prokaryotic resistance to viruses and contributed to the development of novel gene-editing tools and efficient molecular diagnostic systems.

🏆 HONORS AND AWARDS

Dr. Liu’s exemplary contributions have earned him multiple prestigious honors, including:

  • Outstanding Youth Science Foundation Award (2020).
  • Young Top Talents Program, Xiamen University (2019).
  • Young Talents Support Project, China Association for Science and Technology (2018).
  • Second Prize, Beijing Science and Technology Award (2018).

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Liu has significantly advanced the understanding of prokaryotic defense systems, especially the CRISPR-Cas system. His insights into Cas nuclease mechanisms have laid the foundation for transformative molecular diagnostic tools. He has also pioneered innovative gene-editing tools, expanding the potential for therapeutic applications.

Through his role as a researcher and educator, he has mentored numerous students, fostering talent in molecular biology and structural biology.

📚 ACADEMIC CITATIONS

Dr. Liu’s research is widely recognized in the scientific community. He has published extensively as a corresponding, co-corresponding, or first author in leading journals such as:

  • Cell
  • Nature Biotechnology
  • Molecular Cell
  • Nature Communications
  • eLife
  • Structure

His contributions have attracted numerous citations, reflecting his research's profound influence and relevance.

🌟 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Liu’s legacy in molecular biology lies in his impactful work on the mechanisms of prokaryotic defense, innovative diagnostic tools, and advancements in RNA-based research. Moving forward, he is poised to drive significant breakthroughs in epigenetic inheritance, nucleic acid manipulation, and biomedical applications of gene-editing technologies. His continued efforts will undoubtedly contribute to shaping the future of molecular diagnostics and therapeutics.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

"Structures of Neisseria meningitidis Cas9 Complexes in Catalytically Poised and Anti-CRISPR-Inhibited States

  • Authors: Sun, W. , Yang, J. , Cheng, Z. , Sontheimer, E.J. , Wang, Y.
  • Journal: Molecular Cell
  • Year: 2019

"Phage AcrIIA2 DNA Mimicry: Structural Basis of the CRISPR and Anti-CRISPR Arms Race

  • Authors: Liu, L. , Yin, M. , Wang, M. , Wang, Y.
  • Journal: Molecular Cell
  • Year: 2019

"Structure Studies of the CRISPR-Csm Complex Reveal Mechanism of Co-transcriptional Interference

  • Authors: You, L. , Ma, J. , Wang, J. , Zhang, X. , Wang, Y.
  • Journal: Cell
  • Year: 2019

"A CRISPR-Cas13a system for efficient and specific therapeutic targeting of mutant KRAS for pancreatic cancer treatment

  • Authors: Zhao, X. , Liu, L. , Lang, J. , Wang, Y. , Nie, G.
  • Journal: Cancer Letters
  • Year: 2018

"The Molecular Architecture for RNA-Guided RNA Cleavage by Cas13a

  • Authors: Liu, L. , Li, X. , Ma, J. , Zhang, X. , Wang, Y.
  • Journal: Cell
  • Year: 2017

Siyang Liu | Bioinformatics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Siyang Liu | Bioinformatics | Best Researcher Award

Sun Yat-Sen University | China

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📊 Dr. Siyang Liu: A Leader in Human Statistical Genetics and Bioinformatics

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 🎓

Dr. Siyang Liu began her academic journey with a Bachelor's in Ecology from Sun Yat-sen University’s Department of Life Science (2007-2011), where she received a China National Governmental Scholarship for her academic performance. Her interest in bioinformatics led her to pursue an MSc and subsequently a Ph.D. in Bioinformatics at the Bioinformatics Center, University of Copenhagen. Supervised by esteemed Professors Anders Krogh and Anders Albrechtsen, she developed a robust foundation in bioinformatics, further supported by the Danish Government Scholarship.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 👩‍🔬

Dr. Liu is a tenured Associate Professor at the School of Public Health (Shenzhen), Sun Yat-sen University. She also holds concurrent posts as a Professor in Genomics at BGI-Shenzhen Life-Science Institute and a Professor in Bioinformatics at the Center of Excellence for Omics Research, Beijing Tiantan Hospital. Before her current role, she was a Senior Research Scientist at BGI-Shenzhen Life-Science Institute (2018–2021).

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON BIOINFORMATICS🔬

Dr. Liu's research group primarily investigates human statistical genetics and bioinformatics. Her expertise lies in analyzing genetic, environmental, and molecular factors that contribute to human diseases and traits. She uses a combination of bioinformatics, statistical, and machine learning techniques to study the molecular and systemic etiology of complex diseases. Her goal is to develop predictive and intervention models for these diseases, benefiting individuals and populations alike.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 🌎

Dr. Liu’s research has contributed significantly to the understanding of complex diseases through the development of genomic and bioinformatics models. Her work is widely recognized in high-impact journals, with over 20 publications as (co-)first or (co-)corresponding author in journals such as Cell, Nature, Blood, and Nature Communications. Her findings have provided insights into both the predictive modeling of disease and the influence of various genetic and environmental factors on human health.

ACADEMIC CITES 📚

Her body of work is extensively cited in the fields of genomics, bioinformatics, and statistical genetics. This academic impact underscores the relevance and influence of her contributions to scientific knowledge, with her publications helping to advance both the understanding and practical application of complex bioinformatics models.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS 🌟

With her innovative research, teaching roles, and mentorship, Dr. Liu is shaping the next generation of scientists in the field of bioinformatics and public health. Her leadership in multi-omics projects, especially in the areas of cerebrovascular disease and respiratory virus research, demonstrates her commitment to advancing medical genomics and bioinformatics. Her work in population genetics and epidemiology has already made a lasting impact, and her ongoing projects promise to deepen our understanding of the genetic and environmental factors impacting public health.

KEY PROJECTS, GRANTS, AND TEACHING CONTRIBUTIONS💡

Dr. Liu has secured significant funding from national and provincial sources, including the National Key Research and Development Program Project and the Guangdong Provincial Basic and Applied Basic Research Fund, among others. Dr. Liu teaches a range of subjects, including Medical Informatics, Bioinformatics, and Epidemiological Methods. Her courses prepare students for practical applications in computational biology and medical statistics.

OTHER NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS 🏆

  • Grants: Dr. Liu has secured several substantial research grants, including the National Key Research and Development Program Project on ischemic cerebrovascular disease and respiratory viruses, underscoring her expertise in multi-omics approaches.
  • Teaching: She is an active educator, teaching courses such as Fundamentals and Experiments in Medical Informatics, Python and Computational Biology, and Epidemiological Methods, shaping the next generation of bioinformatics and medical statistics experts.
  • Honors and Awards: Dr. Liu’s accolades include the Important Scientific Research Achievement Award at BGI-Shenzhen and recognition as a Shenzhen High-level Overseas Talent, highlighting her achievements and influence within the academic and research communities.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 📑

"Genome-wide association studies of thyroid-related hormones, dysfunction, and autoimmunity among 85,421 Chinese pregnancies" 

  • Authors: Wei, Y. , Zhen, J. , Hu, L. , Xiong, L. , Liu, S
  • Journal: Nature Communications
  • Year: 2024

"Efforts made, challenges faced, and recommendations provided by stakeholders involved in mpox prevention and control in China: a qualitative study" 

  • Authors: Zhang, W. , Qi, X. , Han, B. , Meng, X. , Zou, H
  • Journal: Public Health
  • Year: 2024

"Genome-wide association study of maternal plasma metabolites during pregnancy" 

  • Authors: Liu, S. , Yao, J. , Lin, L. , Jin, X. , Liu, S.
  • Journal: Cell Genomics
  • Year: 2024

"Advances in using non-invasive prenatal testing to study genomics related to maternity" 

  • Authors: Jin, X. , Xu, X. , Zhou, A. , Wang, T. , Liu, H.
  • Journal: Cell Genomics
  • Year: 2024

"Utilizing non-invasive prenatal test sequencing data for human genetic investigation" 

  • Authors: Liu, S. , Liu, Y. , Gu, Y. , Jin, X. , Huang, S.
  • Journal: Cell Genomics
  • Year: 2024

Giulia Pascolini | Neurodevelopmental Disorders | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Giulia Pascolini | Neurodevelopmental Disorders | Best Researcher Award 

Dermopathic Institute of the Immaculate, IDI-IRCC | Italy 

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🌟 Biography of Giulia Pascolini, MD, PhD

🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Giulia Pascolini's journey in medical science began with a Degree in Medicine from Sapienza University of Rome in 2008, which she completed with honors. Following this, she pursued specialization in Medical Genetics at Tor Vergata University of Rome, graduating with honors in 2015 after five years of in-depth study. Driven by her passion for genetics, Dr. Pascolini went on to earn her Ph.D. in Medical Genetics from Sapienza University in 2019, establishing her expertise in a rapidly advancing field. In 2022, she further expanded her knowledge with a Master of II level in Rare Diseases, also from Sapienza University, solidifying her role as a leading expert in rare genetic disorders.

🩺 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Pascolini's professional career is marked by extensive experience across multiple prestigious institutions. Currently, she is a Clinical Geneticist and head of the Clinical Genetics Service at the Istituto Dermopatico dell'Immacolata (IDI-IRCCS) in Rome, Italy. Since September 2023, she also holds a position as Professor of Medical Genetics at the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery at Tor Vergata University of Rome. Over the years, she has held various roles, including serving as a clinical geneticist at Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital and a researcher at San Camillo-Forlanini Hospital. Her long-standing commitment to clinical genetics spans over 15 years, with a focus on intellectual disability syndromes, dysmorphology, and developmental disorders.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON NEURODEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS 

Dr. Pascolini's research primarily centers around Developmental Disorders of Chromatin Remodeling (DDCRs), intellectual disability (ID) syndromes, and genodermatoses. She has played a crucial role in the study of the skin phenotype in rare genetic diseases, and her work on deep learning technologies for diagnosing genetic syndromes using facial phenotype recognition is groundbreaking. Her involvement with FDNA Inc. and the DeepGestalt technology is a testament to her contributions to advancing medical genetics through innovative platforms. She is also a principal investigator for multiple research projects, including studies on rare cutaneous tumors and familial melanoma, with funding of over €47,000 for these projects.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

As a Scientific Board Member of the ADNP Syndrome Italian Association and an editorial board member of the Journal of Pediatric Genetics, Dr. Pascolini has made significant contributions to the broader medical community. Her work has helped shape new approaches to the clinical understanding of complex genetic disorders, particularly in rare diseases and neurodevelopmental syndromes. Through her collaborative efforts with international organizations and her academic roles, she continues to influence both current medical practices and future research directions.

📚 ACADEMIC CITES AND PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Pascolini has authored several impactful works, including her involvement in the DeepGestalt technology article on SETD5-associated intellectual disability published in the Journal of Translational Genetics and Genomics. Her contributions to book chapters, such as her writing on Genomic Copy Number Variants (CNVs) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), have added substantial value to academic literature. Her expertise has also been recognized through invitations to write for special issues in leading journals, enhancing her standing as a key voice in her field.

🏅 AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

In 2019, Dr. Pascolini was awarded the Franca Dagna Bricarelli Award for her clinical research on genetic mutations associated with the BAF complex. This prestigious award highlights her excellence in medical genetics and clinical research. Her contributions to the field, recognized by peers and institutions alike, reflect her profound impact on the study and treatment of genetic disorders.

🌟 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

With her leadership in clinical genetics, active research on rare skin diseases, and innovative work in genetic syndrome diagnostics, Dr. Pascolini is poised to continue shaping the future of medical genetics. Her contributions to understanding the genetic basis of intellectual disabilities and her work on cutting-edge diagnostic technologies ensure her legacy as a pioneering figure in genetics. As she continues her role in both clinical and academic settings, her future contributions will likely further advance the study and treatment of rare genetic conditions, helping countless individuals worldwide.

📑NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

"The face of Non-photosensitive trichothiodystrophy phenotypic spectrum: A subsequent study on paediatric population" 

  • Authors: Pascolini, G. , Lipari, M. , Gaudioso, F. , Di Zenzo, G. , Didona, B.
  • Journal: Molecular Genetics and Genomic Medicine
  • Year: 2024

"Usmani-Riazuddin syndrome can have a recognizable phenotype: Report of a novel AP1G1 variant" 

  • Authors: Gnazzo, M. , Pascolini, G. , Parlapiano, G. , Novelli, A. , Baban, A.
  • Journal: Clinical Genetics
  • Year: 2024

"Extended phenotypic characterization of a novel Helsmoortel-van der Aa syndrome case series" 

  • Authors: Pascolini, G., Di Zenzo, G., Panebianco, A., Didona, B., Gozes, I.
  • Journal: American Journal of Medical Genetics
  • Year: 2024

"Ectoderm-derived findings in Aymè-Gripp syndrome" 

  • Authors: Pascolini, G., Di Zenzo, G., Morani, P., Didona, B., Panebianco, A.
  • Journal: Journal of Dermatology
  • Year: 2024

"Defining the clinical spectrum of ichthyosis follicularis, atrichia and photophobia clinical association type 1 (IFAP1)" 

  • Authors: Pascolini, G., Fortugno, P., Chandramouli, B., Didona, B., Castiglia, D.
  • Journal: European Journal of Dermatology
  • Year: 2023

Havva Ortabozkoyun | Gene Regulation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Havva Ortabozkoyun | Gene Regulation | Best Researcher Award

University of Miami Miller School of Medical / Sylvester Cancer Center | United States

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🧬 Havva Ortabozkoyun-Kara, PhD: Pioneering Epigenetics and Cancer Biology Researcher

🧑‍🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Havva Ortabozkoyun-Kara, PhD, embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Genetics from Middle East Technical University (METU) in Ankara, Turkey. Graduating with a stellar GPA of 3.80/4.00 in 2010, she demonstrated early on her dedication to understanding complex biological systems. Her education continued at Utrecht University in the Netherlands, where she pursued a Master of Science in Cancer Genomics and Developmental Biology. With a perfect GPA of 4.00/4.00, she excelled in this program, setting a strong foundation for her future research in cancer biology. Dr. Ortabozkoyun-Kara then achieved her PhD in Stem Cell Biology from New York University (NYU), where she graduated with a GPA of 3.89/4.00. During her doctoral studies, she delved into stem cell and developmental biology, further refining her focus on the mechanisms that drive cellular diversity and disease processes.

🧑‍🔬 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Ortabozkoyun-Kara’s professional journey is marked by her extensive research experience in some of the most prestigious laboratories in the world. She began as a rotation student in the lab of Iannis Aifantis at NYU, where she explored the role of the ubiquitin system in cancer and stem cell function. Her doctoral research, conducted in the lab of Danny Reinberg at NYU School of Medicine, involved pioneering work on the insulation function of CTCF and the characterization of Polycomb Repressive Complex (PRC1) during differentiation. After completing her PhD, she continued her research as a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Reinberg Lab, focusing on gene regulation and the role of MAZ, CTCF, and other factors in disease processes. Currently, she holds a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, where she is studying novel insulation factors on gene regulation during developmental and disease processes.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON GENE REGULATION

Dr. Ortabozkoyun-Kara’s research has significantly advanced our understanding of epigenetics, stem cell biology, and cancer biology. Her work has centered on the intricate mechanisms of gene regulation, particularly the insulation functions that control the expression of Hox genes during development and in disease states. Through innovative CRISPR genetic screens and biochemical assays, she has identified key factors that cooperate with CTCF in these processes. Her research on the differences in Polycomb Repressive Complex composition during cellular differentiation has provided new insights into how these complexes contribute to the regulation of gene expression.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Ortabozkoyun-Kara’s contributions to the fields of epigenetics and stem cell biology have had a profound impact on our understanding of how genetic and biochemical mechanisms lead to cellular diversity and disease. Her findings on the role of insulation factors in gene regulation have opened new avenues for research in developmental biology and cancer, influencing the direction of studies in these fields. Her expertise is recognized internationally, and she continues to collaborate with leading scientists to push the boundaries of what we know about gene regulation and its implications for human health.

📚 ACADEMIC CITATIONS

Dr. Ortabozkoyun-Kara’s work has been widely cited in the academic community, reflecting the importance of her contributions to the scientific understanding of gene regulation. Her publications in high-impact journals are frequently referenced by other researchers in the fields of molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry. These citations underscore the relevance of her work to ongoing research and its potential to inform new therapeutic approaches for diseases linked to epigenetic regulation.

🏆 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As Dr. Ortabozkoyun-Kara continues her research at the University of Miami, her legacy is one of innovation and discovery. Her future contributions are expected to further illuminate the complex mechanisms of gene regulation and their role in development and disease. With her deep expertise in epigenetics and stem cell biology, she is poised to make significant advances in the understanding and treatment of diseases driven by genetic and epigenetic alterations. Her work will undoubtedly continue to influence the fields of molecular biology and genetics for years to come, inspiring future generations of scientists.

💡 INNOVATIVE APPROACHES

Dr. Ortabozkoyun-Kara is known for her creative and methodical approaches to scientific research. She has developed novel genetic and biochemical methods that have expanded the toolkit available to researchers studying epigenetic mechanisms. Her work not only provides critical insights but also equips the scientific community with new strategies for investigating and manipulating gene expression in various biological contexts.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

"CRISPR and biochemical screens identify MAZ as a cofactor in CTCF-mediated insulation at Hox clusters" 

  • Authors: Havva Ortabozkoyun, Pin-Yao Huang, Hyunwoo Cho, Varun Narendra, Gary LeRoy, Edgar Gonzalez-Buendia, Jane A Skok, Aristotelis Tsirigos, Esteban O Mazzoni, Danny Reinberg
  • Journal: Nature Genetics
  • Year: 2022

"A CRISPR Screen Identifies Myc-associated Zinc Finger Protein (MAZ) as an Insulator Functioning at CTCF boundaries in Hox Clusters" 

  • Authors: Havva Ortabozkoyun-Kara, Pin-Yao Huang, Hyunwoo Cho, Varun Narendra, Gary Leroy, Jane A. Skok, Aristotelis Tsirigos, Esteban O. Mazzoni, Danny Reinberg
  • Journal: BioRxiv
  • Year: 2020

"Members of an array of zinc finger proteins specify distinct Hox chromatin boundaries"

  • Authors: Havva Ortabozkoyun, Pin-Yao Huang, Edgar Gonzalez-Buendia, Hyein Cho, Sang Kim, Aristotelis Tsirigos, Esteban Mazzoni, Danny Reinberg
  • Journal: bioRxiv
  • Year: 2023

"Members of a Family of Zinc Finger Proteins Demarcate Chromatin Boundaries at Hox Clusters during Development, Ortabozkoyun et. al"

  • Authors: Havva Ortabozkoyun, Pin-Yao Huang, Edgar Gonzalez-Buendia, Hyunwoo Cho, Sang Y Kim, Aristotelis Tsirigos, Esteban O Mazzoni, Danny Reinberg
  • Journal: Mendeley Data
  • Year: 2024

"Novel chromatin insulating activities uncovered upon eliminating known insulators in vivo"

  • Authors: Havva Ortabozkoyun, P. Huang, H. Cho, E. Mazzoni, A. Tsirigos, D. Reinberg
  • Year: 2023