Xiaosan Huang | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Xiaosan Huang | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Professor from College of Horticulture, Nanjing Agricultural University, China

Professor Xiaosan Huang is a distinguished scholar in the field of horticultural science, currently serving as a professor and doctoral advisor at the College of Horticulture, Nanjing Agricultural University. Born in 1983, he has dedicated his career to advancing research in fruit tree stress resistance, DNA methylation, epigenetics, and germplasm innovation. With over 20 national and provincial-level research projects under his leadership, Professor Huang has made significant contributions to the scientific community. His prolific publication record includes 28 academic papers, 20 of which are indexed in SCI journals, with eight published in journals boasting impact factors exceeding 6.0. His work has garnered over 520 citations, reflecting the impact and relevance of his research. In addition to his research endeavors, Professor Huang is committed to education, having taught multiple undergraduate and postgraduate courses and mentored numerous students who have achieved notable academic successes. His contributions have been recognized through various awards, including the Jiangsu Province “Outstanding Youth Fund” and the “Young Scholar Award” from Dabei Agriculture. Professor Huang’s dedication to research, education, and innovation positions him as a leading figure in his field.

Professional Profile

Education

Professor Huang’s academic journey commenced at Huazhong Agricultural University, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Horticulture from the College of Horticulture in 2006. He continued at the same institution for a combined Master’s and Doctoral program in Pomology, completing his Ph.D. in 2011. This rigorous academic training provided him with a solid foundation in horticultural science, equipping him with the knowledge and skills necessary for his future research endeavors. His education emphasized both theoretical understanding and practical application, fostering a comprehensive grasp of plant biology, genetics, and breeding techniques. The interdisciplinary nature of his studies allowed him to explore various facets of horticulture, laying the groundwork for his subsequent focus on fruit tree stress resistance and molecular biology. This strong educational background has been instrumental in shaping Professor Huang’s research trajectory and his contributions to the field.

Professional Experience

Professor Huang’s professional career is marked by a series of progressive roles at Nanjing Agricultural University. He began as a Lecturer in the College of Horticulture from 2011 to 2013, advancing to Associate Professor from 2014 to 2018, and attaining the rank of Professor in 2019. His tenure at the university has been characterized by active involvement in teaching, research, and academic leadership. In 2015, he expanded his international experience as a Visiting Scholar at Purdue University’s College of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, where he engaged in collaborative research and broadened his academic perspectives. Throughout his career, Professor Huang has demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence, contributing to curriculum development, mentoring students, and leading significant research projects. His professional journey reflects a dedication to advancing horticultural science and fostering the next generation of researchers.

Research Interests

Professor Huang’s research interests are centered on the molecular mechanisms underlying fruit tree responses to abiotic stresses, such as cold, drought, and salinity. He focuses on identifying and utilizing superior genetic resources to enhance stress resistance in fruit trees. His work delves into DNA methylation and epigenetic modifications, exploring how these processes influence gene expression and plant adaptation. Additionally, he investigates the role of transcription factors, such as MYB, WRKY, and NAC families, in regulating stress-responsive genes. Professor Huang is also interested in germplasm innovation, aiming to develop new cultivars with improved resilience and productivity. His interdisciplinary approach combines genomics, molecular biology, and biotechnology to address challenges in horticulture and contribute to sustainable agricultural practices.

Research Skills

Professor Huang possesses a comprehensive skill set in plant molecular biology and genomics. He is proficient in techniques such as gene cloning, quantitative real-time PCR, and transcriptome analysis. His expertise extends to genome-wide association studies and the functional characterization of genes involved in stress responses. He has experience in utilizing bioinformatics tools for data analysis and visualization, facilitating the interpretation of complex genomic data. Professor Huang is adept at designing and conducting experiments to elucidate gene function and regulatory networks. His skills also encompass the development of genetic transformation systems for functional validation studies. These competencies enable him to conduct cutting-edge research aimed at improving fruit tree resilience and productivity.

Awards and Honors

Professor Huang’s contributions to horticultural science have been recognized through numerous awards and honors. He received the “Outstanding Youth Fund” from Jiangsu Province in 2017, acknowledging his potential and achievements in scientific research. In 2016, he was honored as an “Outstanding Young Backbone Teacher” under the Qinglan Project of Jiangsu Province, reflecting his excellence in teaching and mentorship. His innovative research earned him the “Zhongshan Academic Rookie” title from Nanjing Agricultural University in 2013. He was also awarded the “Young Scholar Award” by Dabei Agriculture in 2017. Furthermore, he has been part of teams that received prestigious accolades, such as the first prize of the Shennong China Agricultural Science and Technology Award in 2016-2017 and the Excellent Innovation Team Award in 2018-2019. These honors underscore his significant impact on both research and education in horticultural science.

Conclusion

Professor Xiaosan Huang exemplifies a dedicated and accomplished researcher in horticultural science. His extensive academic background, encompassing rigorous education and progressive professional experience, has laid the foundation for his impactful research. His focus on understanding and enhancing fruit tree resilience to environmental stresses addresses critical challenges in agriculture. Through his interdisciplinary approach, combining molecular biology, genomics, and biotechnology, he contributes to the development of sustainable horticultural practices. His commitment to education is evident in his mentorship of students and contributions to curriculum development. The recognition he has received through various awards and honors attests to his influence and leadership in the field. Professor Huang’s ongoing work continues to advance our understanding of plant stress responses and holds promise for improving crop resilience and productivity.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Genome-wide identification of the Phospholipase D (PLD) gene family in Chinese white pear (Pyrus bretschneideri) and the role of PbrPLD2 in drought resistance

    • Authors: Likun Lin, Kaili Yuan, Xiaosan Huang, Shaoling Zhang

    • Journal: Plant Science

  2. Title: Synergistic Interaction Between PbbZIP88 and PbSRK2E Enhances Drought Resistance in Pear Through Regulation of PbATL18 Expression and Stomatal Closure

    • Authors: Likun Lin, Kaili Yuan, Kaijie Qi, Xiaosan Huang, Shaoling Zhang

    • Journal: Plant, Cell and Environment

    • Citations: 1

  1. Title: PbERF2-like interacts with PbNPR1 while enhancing the resistance of pear to Alternaria alternata

    • Authors: Qinghai Qiao, Zhiyuan Su, Xin Wang, Xiaosan Huang, Shaoling Zhang

    • Journal: Scientia Horticulturae

  2. Title: PbGBF3 enhances salt response in pear by upregulating PbAPL2 and PbSDH1 and reducing ABA-mediated salt sensitivity

    • Authors: Huizheng Dong, Qiming Chen, Yifei Fu, Shaoling Zhang, Xiaosan Huang

    • Journal: Plant Journal

    • Citations: 3

  3. Title: Pyrus betulaefolia ERF3 interacts with HsfC1a to coordinately regulate aquaporin PIP1;4 and NCED4 for drought tolerance

    • Authors: Feng Zhang, Zhijian Pan, Chengyang Han, Shaoling Zhang, Xiaosan Huang

    • Journal: Horticulture Research

    • Citations: 6

Fu Xiaocong | Molecular Biology | Best Innovation Award

Mr. Fu Xiaocong | Molecular Biology | Best Innovation Award

Shanghai Paisi Xin Biopharmaceutical Technology Co., Ltd. Malaysia

Dr. Xiaocong Fu is a highly accomplished Senior Tumor Immunology Researcher with more than a decade of experience in the development of cell therapy and gene/nucleic acid-based therapeutics. Currently based in Shanghai, he holds a PhD and has served in both academic and industrial roles, including as Founder of PSM Biotech and Associate Professor at Taylor’s University. His career encompasses a broad range of translational research activities with a strong focus on clinical immunology, drug mechanism validation, and precision oncology. He has published over 30 academic papers, with 13 as the first author in SCI-indexed journals, and holds more than nine personal invention patents. Dr. Fu is certified in GCP, CAP auditing, and biosafety regulations, with additional advisory roles in AI research and biotechnology projects. His multifaceted expertise includes immune function analysis, CAR-T/TCR-T method development, and organoid model systems, all of which reflect his dedication to innovation and real-world impact. His unique ability to combine clinical relevance with scientific discovery positions him as a leading figure in the field of tumor immunology and a strong candidate for prestigious innovation and research awards.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Xiaocong Fu holds a Doctorate in Tumor Immunology, which has laid the scientific foundation for his highly specialized career in immunotherapy research. In addition to his academic training in immunology, he pursued advanced studies in business and innovation management at the China Europe International Business School, equipping him with a strategic understanding of biotech commercialization and research leadership. This interdisciplinary educational background has uniquely positioned him to integrate laboratory innovation with real-world therapeutic applications. His formal training includes rigorous technical and regulatory coursework, exemplified by certifications in Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and clinical trial quality management. Dr. Fu has also completed specialized training in biosafety and laboratory quality systems, including certification from the Shanghai Biosafety Training and Assessment Program and the College of American Pathologists (CAP). These credentials have enabled him to oversee clinical laboratory standards and contribute to high-stakes regulatory audits and clinical research. His academic affiliation with Taylor’s University as an Associate Professor further demonstrates his commitment to continuous learning, academic mentorship, and scientific excellence. The combination of scientific rigor and managerial insight distinguishes Dr. Fu’s educational journey and reflects his preparedness to drive complex, multidisciplinary projects in immunology and therapeutic development.

Professional Experience

Dr. Xiaocong Fu’s professional journey spans more than a decade of progressive responsibility in both industry and academia, reflecting a strong blend of translational research and entrepreneurial leadership. From 2012 to 2019, he worked at Shanghai WuXi AppTec Co., Ltd., where he played a critical role in preclinical and clinical immunology research. His responsibilities included the development of orthotopic tumor models, pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic studies, immune function assays, and clinical biomarker validation. During this time, he built expertise in flow cytometry, immune subpopulation analysis, and organoid construction platforms. As Technical Director of the CAP Clinical Center, Dr. Fu successfully developed and validated multiple clinical methods, including those for CAR-T therapies and phosphorylation-related biomarker detection. His current roles include Founder of PSM Biotech, where he leads innovation in cell and gene therapy platforms, and Associate Professor at Taylor’s University, where he contributes to academic research and mentorship. He also serves as Vice President of the Jiangxi Chamber of Commerce and holds advisory roles with AI research institutes. Dr. Fu’s professional scope covers scientific innovation, quality control, clinical trial management, and biotech entrepreneurship, establishing him as a multifaceted leader in the biomedical and pharmaceutical research sectors.

Research Interests

Dr. Xiaocong Fu’s research interests lie at the forefront of tumor immunology, cell therapy development, and translational clinical science. His primary focus is on understanding the mechanisms of immune response in cancer, particularly through the development and validation of CAR-T and TCR-T therapies. He is deeply involved in immune-mediated killing analyses, including ADCC (antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity), CDC (complement-dependent cytotoxicity), ADCP (antibody-dependent cellular phagocytosis), and TLR (toll-like receptor) functions. Dr. Fu also explores immune phenotyping and biomarker discovery, especially in relation to hematological malignancies and solid tumors. Another key area of interest is the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) for disease modeling and drug response simulation, with his team constructing organoid platforms for more precise in vitro analyses. Additionally, he is passionate about integrating gene editing technologies such as CRISPR to develop immune cell-based models that mimic in vivo responses. Dr. Fu’s interests extend to clinical pharmacology, biomarker-based patient stratification, and receptor occupancy studies, all aimed at creating more effective, personalized therapeutic strategies. His research is inherently translational, bridging the gap between laboratory innovation and clinical application to improve patient outcomes in cancer immunotherapy.

Research Skills

Dr. Xiaocong Fu possesses a wide array of advanced research skills that make him a standout contributor in the field of tumor immunology and clinical translational research. He is proficient in both in vitro and in vivo assays, including the development of orthotopic tumor models and functional immune assays. He has mastered multiparameter flow cytometry and is capable of operating high-throughput cytometry instruments such as the BD Fortessa X-20 and Canto systems, applying panels with up to 18 colors. His skill set includes the quantitative analysis of intracellular and extracellular signaling molecules, using detection platforms like Cytometric Bead Array (CBA) and Meso Scale Discovery (MSD). Dr. Fu is experienced in gene editing using CRISPR/Cas9 technologies, having successfully developed monoclonal iPSCs with precise gene knock-ins/knockouts. In clinical pharmacology, he has validated several PK/PD methods for CAR-T therapies and phosphorylation biomarkers. His technical leadership extends to immunophenotyping of both lymphoid and myeloid subpopulations, receptor occupancy assays, and biomarker tracking. He is also adept at clinical laboratory quality systems, having contributed to CAP audits and biosafety program implementations. These diverse, high-level research skills have enabled him to lead multidisciplinary projects across discovery, validation, and clinical translation domains.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Dr. Xiaocong Fu has received numerous accolades that highlight his commitment to excellence and innovation in biomedical research. While specific award titles are not listed in the provided profile, his recognition can be inferred from his leadership roles and scientific achievements. His appointment as an Associate Professor at Taylor’s University, a position typically awarded to individuals with significant academic contributions, underscores his research credibility. His selection as a CAP auditor and a GCP-certified clinical trial manager reflects the high level of trust regulatory and research bodies place in his judgment and technical competence. As the Founder of PSM Biotech, he has also been acknowledged for his entrepreneurial efforts in translating immunological science into therapeutic platforms. Moreover, his advisory role in AI-based scientific projects further demonstrates peer recognition of his interdisciplinary expertise. With over 13 first-author SCI publications and nine personal invention patents, Dr. Fu’s body of work stands as a testament to sustained scholarly and innovative output. These milestones serve as informal yet powerful recognitions of his contributions, suggesting that he is not only a subject matter expert but also a recognized leader in his field.

Conclusion

Dr. Xiaocong Fu exemplifies the fusion of scientific excellence, clinical relevance, and innovative thinking necessary to transform cancer therapy through immune system modulation. His rich educational background, expansive professional experience, and cutting-edge research portfolio position him at the forefront of biomedical innovation. From pioneering CAR-T and TCR-T therapies to constructing iPSC-based organoid models, his work covers the full spectrum of research from basic science to translational application. As a skilled researcher, technical leader, and biotech entrepreneur, Dr. Fu has developed and validated multiple clinical methodologies, driven discovery in tumor immunology, and fostered collaborations across academia, industry, and regulatory agencies. His research consistently addresses real-world challenges in oncology and immunotherapy, leveraging both molecular precision and systems-level insight. Although there is room to expand his visibility in global academic networks and enhance commercialization outcomes, Dr. Fu’s existing contributions are both impactful and future-focused. He is a model candidate for honors such as the Best Innovation Award in Research and represents the caliber of researcher who not only advances knowledge but also changes lives through science.

Pi-Wan Cheng | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Pi-Wan Cheng | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Professor at University of Nebraska Medical Center, United States

Dr. Pi Wan Cheng is a distinguished biochemist and molecular biologist with over four decades of experience in research and academia. He currently holds a professorship at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) and has contributed significantly to the field of glycobiology. Dr. Cheng has made pivotal advancements in understanding glycan biosynthesis and its role in health, diseases, and cancer. His work, which bridges basic and translational research, is supported by multiple research grants and patents. He has also been an active member of several professional organizations, underscoring his influence in the scientific community. Dr. Cheng’s research focuses on how glycosylation affects immune responses and cancer progression, with a special emphasis on the development of Siglec-7-based therapies for pancreatic cancer.

Professional Profile

Education:

Dr. Pi Wan Cheng obtained his Ph.D. in Biochemistry from Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, in 1975. Prior to that, he earned his M.S. in Biochemistry from National Taiwan University in 1968, following his B.S. in Agricultural Chemistry from the same institution in 1965. Throughout his educational journey, Dr. Cheng worked under the mentorship of prominent scientists such as Dr. Don M. Carlson and Dr. Kuo Huang Ling, which shaped his academic and professional growth in biochemistry and molecular biology.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Cheng’s career spans numerous prestigious academic institutions. He has held faculty positions at Case Western Reserve University, the University of North Carolina, and UNMC. At UNMC, he has been a professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology since 1995, where he was granted tenure in 1997. He also served as a research chemist at the Veterans Affairs Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System from 2011 to 2017. His role at UNMC also includes courtesy appointments in the College of Pharmacy and the Eppley Institute for Cancer Research, where he has fostered collaborations and contributed to the institution’s research landscape.

Research Interest:

Dr. Cheng’s primary research interest lies in glycobiology, specifically the mechanisms of glycan biosynthesis and its impact on health and disease. His work focuses on understanding how glycans, particularly sialylated O-glycans, influence immune responses and contribute to the progression of diseases such as cancer. He investigates how specific glycans, induced by factors like interleukin-6 and alcohol, can protect cancer cells from immune surveillance and promote tumor growth. His innovative research is also exploring therapies targeting Siglec-7 for pancreatic cancer treatment, with potential applications in immunotherapy and cancer prevention.

Research Skills:

Dr. Cheng possesses a comprehensive skill set in biochemistry, molecular biology, and glycobiology. He is skilled in techniques related to protein biochemistry, glycan analysis, immunology, and cancer research. His expertise includes the development of molecular models to understand glycan interactions with immune cells, as well as employing various biochemical assays to assess glycan expression in disease states. Dr. Cheng’s proficiency extends to experimental design, grant writing, and leading interdisciplinary research teams. He has also contributed to the field through patents, underscoring his ability to translate fundamental discoveries into real-world applications.

Awards and Honors:

Throughout his career, Dr. Cheng has received numerous accolades for his groundbreaking research in glycobiology. His work has been supported by prestigious grants, including those from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, where he has led multiple research projects related to cancer and immune function. He holds patents in biologically active molecule delivery, reflecting his innovative contributions to science. Dr. Cheng is a lifetime member of the Society for Glycobiology and the Society of Chinese Bioscientists in America, and he has been recognized for his service to the scientific community through various professional society memberships and community volunteer work.

Conclusion:

Dr. Pi Wan Cheng is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with a distinguished career marked by significant research contributions in glycobiology, a track record of continuous funding, and active involvement in the scientific community. His innovative research, particularly in cancer immunology and glycosylation, holds great promise for medical advancements. While there is room for further interdisciplinary collaboration and publication visibility, his foundational work in glycobiology makes him a deserving nominee for this prestigious award.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Markers of malignant prostate cancer cells: Golgi localization of α-mannosidase 1A at GM130-GRASP65 site and appearance of high mannose N-glycans on cell surface
    • Authors: Cheng, P.-W., Davidson, S., Bhat, G.
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 12
  2. Inhibitory activity of salivary glycoproteins on phytohemagglutins (PHA): Possible molecules to enhance nutritional quality of red kidney beans
    • Authors: Chachadi, V.B., Nayanegali, T.R., Pujari, B.G., Inamdar, S.R., Cheng, P.-W.
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 3
  3. p66Shc protein through a redox mechanism enhances the progression of prostate cancer cells towards castration-resistance
    • Authors: Miller, D.R., Ingersoll, M.A., Chatterjee, A., Oberley-Deegan, R.E., Lin, M.-F.
    • Year: 2019
    • Citations: 18
  4. Shifted Golgi targeting of glycosyltransferases and α-mannosidase IA from giantin to GM130-GRASP65 results in formation of high mannose N-glycans in aggressive prostate cancer cells
    • Authors: Bhat, G., Hothpet, V.-R., Lin, M.-F., Cheng, P.-W.
    • Year: 2017
    • Citations: 18
  5. The role of Rab6a and phosphorylation of non-muscle myosin IIA tailpiece in alcohol-induced Golgi disorganization
    • Authors: Petrosyan, A., Casey, C.A., Cheng, P.-W.
    • Year: 2016
    • Citations: 22
  6. Downregulation of the small GTPase SAR1A: A key event underlying alcohol-induced Golgi fragmentation in hepatocytes
    • Authors: Petrosyan, A., Cheng, P.-W., Clemens, D.L., Casey, C.A.
    • Year: 2015
    • Citations: 20
  7. Glycosyltransferases involved in the synthesis of MUC-associated metastasis-promoting selectin ligands
    • Authors: Chachadi, V.B., Bhat, G., Cheng, P.-W.
    • Year: 2015
    • Citations: 15
  8. Keratin 1 plays a critical role in Golgi localization of core 2 N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase M via interaction with its cytoplasmic tail
    • Authors: Petrosyan, A., Ali, M.F., Cheng, P.-W.
    • Year: 2015
    • Citations: 20
  9. Restoration of compact Golgi morphology in advanced prostate cancer enhances susceptibility to galectin-1-induced apoptosis by modifying mucin O-glycan synthesis
    • Authors: Petrosyan, A., Holzapfel, M.S., Muirhead, D.E., Cheng, P.-W.
    • Year: 2014
    • Citations: 64
  10. Golgi fragmentation induced by heat shock or inhibition of heat shock proteins is mediated by non-muscle myosin IIA via its interaction with glycosyltransferases
    • Authors: Petrosyan, A., Cheng, P.-W.
    • Year: 2014
    • Citations: 24