Tag: Genomics Innovation Award

Peter Poczai | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Peter Poczai | Plant Genetics | Best Researcher Award

University of Helsinki | Finland

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Peter Poczai is a distinguished researcher and academic leader in the fields of plant systematics, museomics, phylogenomics, and evolutionary biology. He earned his Ph.D. in Agricultural Sciences (Plant Genetics) from Georgikon, Hungary, followed by habilitation in Biological Sciences and a docentship in Plant Systematics at the University of Helsinki, where he currently serves as Associate Professor and Scientific Authority (Plants) for CITES Finland. His professional experience includes leading international research projects funded by the EU and the Academy of Finland, with visiting fellowships at Radboud University, the Royal Botanical Garden Edinburgh, and the Institute of Advanced Studies, Hungary. His research interests focus on applying genomic tools and museum collections to study plant evolution, invasive species, and climate change impacts, while his skills extend to molecular biology, bioinformatics, conservation policy, and development of scientific software tools such as IRscope and Chloroplot. He has published over 150 peer-reviewed articles in top journals, authored textbooks and the widely acclaimed book Heredity Before Mendel, and serves as Associate Editor for Frontiers in Genetics and Ecology and Evolution. Recognized with fellowships and leadership roles, his awards and honors reflect global contributions to biodiversity science. In conclusion, Dr. Poczai exemplifies academic excellence, innovative research, and impactful conservation leadership, bridging science, policy, and public engagement.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

  • Kantelinen, A., Printzen, C., Poczai, P., & Myllys, L. (2022). Lichen speciation is sparked by a substrate requirement shift and reproduction mode differentiation. Scientific Reports, 12(1), Article 11048. doi:10.1038/s41598-022-14970-9 (7)

  • Cseh, A., Poczai, P., Kiss, T., Balla, K., Berki, Z., Horváth, Á., Kúti, C., & Karsai, I. (2021). Exploring the legacy of Central European historical winter wheat landraces. Scientific Reports, 11, Article 23915. doi:10.1038/s41598-021-03261-4 (13)

 

Ana Beatriz Dos Santos | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Ana Beatriz Dos Santos | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Ana Beatriz dos Santos is a dedicated and emerging researcher in the fields of neuroscience and developmental biology. With a strong background in biological sciences and an impressive trajectory of academic achievements, she has already made substantial contributions to the study of oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Ana’s work integrates both theoretical and practical approaches, combining behavioral, biochemical, and molecular methods in model organisms such as Drosophila melanogaster and Danio rerio. Her transition from undergraduate research fellowships to master’s and PhD-level investigations demonstrates a consistent progression in scientific rigor and innovation. She is currently pursuing her PhD in Biochemistry at the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, where she explores the molecular pathways linking redox imbalance and ferroptosis in models of autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Ana has published multiple peer-reviewed journal articles in high-impact journals and is an active contributor to the academic community. Her passion for science, drive for innovation, and ability to independently conduct complex research projects make her an outstanding early-career researcher. With a strong commitment to addressing real-world biomedical questions, she stands out as a promising candidate for advanced research opportunities and recognitions such as the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile

Education

Ana Beatriz dos Santos began her academic career at the Universidade Federal do Pampa, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences in February 2023. During her undergraduate studies, she cultivated a deep interest in developmental biology and oxidative stress mechanisms, particularly focusing on the redox metabolism of model organisms. Her strong academic performance and dedication to laboratory research led her to pursue a Master’s degree in Neurosciences at the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), which she is expected to complete in July 2025. This program has provided her with advanced knowledge and research experience in neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly autism spectrum disorders, utilizing fetal animal models. Building upon her master’s research, Ana is currently enrolled in the PhD Program in Biochemistry at UFRGS. This ongoing doctoral training is designed to deepen her expertise in redox biology, mitochondrial function, and cellular signaling pathways. Her educational journey reflects a coherent progression from foundational biological sciences to highly specialized topics in neuroscience and molecular biochemistry, equipping her with the theoretical and methodological tools required for cutting-edge research. Through every stage of her academic training, Ana has demonstrated intellectual curiosity, scientific rigor, and a passion for contributing to biomedical science.

Professional Experience

Ana Beatriz dos Santos has developed a robust professional profile through multiple research fellowships and academic appointments. From 2021 to 2023, she served as an Undergraduate Research Fellow in the Oxidative Stress and Cell Signaling Research Group (GPEOSCEL) at the Universidade Federal do Pampa. Under the guidance of esteemed mentors, she gained practical experience working with model organisms and investigating redox metabolism during embryonic development. In 2023, she transitioned to the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), where she joined the Molecular Psychiatry Laboratory (GETTEA) under the supervision of Dr. Carmem Gottfried. As a Master’s Research Fellow supported by CAPES from 2023 to 2025, Ana delved into the cellular and molecular mechanisms underpinning autism spectrum disorders. Her work involves using valproic acid (VPA)-induced animal models to study oxidative homeostasis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and ferroptosis. In 2024, she became a member of the International Society for Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD), reflecting her growing international recognition. Most recently, she commenced her role as a PhD Research Fellow in Biochemistry at UFRGS. Ana’s career trajectory reveals a steady progression marked by increasing research complexity, interdisciplinary exposure, and a consistent focus on oxidative biology and neurodevelopment.

Research Interest

Ana Beatriz dos Santos is primarily interested in the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodevelopmental disorders, with a specific focus on oxidative stress, mitochondrial quality control, and ferroptosis. Her research bridges developmental biology and neuroscience, aiming to understand how early-life oxidative imbalances impact neural development and contribute to conditions such as autism spectrum disorders. Using animal models like Drosophila melanogaster, Danio rerio, and rodent systems, Ana investigates redox metabolism and cell death pathways, including apoptosis and ferroptosis, to unravel the pathophysiology of neurological impairments. A significant part of her work also explores the therapeutic potential of bioactive compounds such as resveratrol in mitigating oxidative damage. Her scientific inquiry is further shaped by her involvement in characterizing valproic acid-induced animal models of autism, where she analyzes fetal brain samples to examine mitochondrial alterations and oxidative biomarkers. Ana’s interdisciplinary approach combines developmental toxicology, molecular biochemistry, and behavioral neuroscience, making her research highly relevant to both basic science and clinical applications. She is passionate about identifying novel molecular targets for early diagnosis and intervention in neurodevelopmental disorders. With a strong commitment to advancing knowledge in redox biology and its implications for brain health, Ana’s research interests are both innovative and socially impactful.

Research Skills

Ana Beatriz dos Santos possesses a diverse set of research skills that span both experimental and analytical domains in molecular and developmental biology. Her technical proficiency includes working with animal models such as Drosophila melanogaster, Danio rerio, and rodents, allowing her to study embryonic development and neurobiology across species. She has hands-on experience in biochemical assays for redox metabolism, including measurement of oxidative stress markers, enzyme activity, and mitochondrial function. Ana is skilled in designing and conducting behavioral tests in model organisms to assess neurodevelopmental outcomes, particularly in autism spectrum disorder models. She is also proficient in molecular biology techniques such as Western blotting, qPCR, and immunohistochemistry, enabling detailed cellular and molecular characterization. Her analytical abilities are evident in her capacity to interpret complex datasets, write scientific manuscripts, and conduct systematic literature reviews. Furthermore, she has led independent research projects, demonstrating strong capabilities in project design, experimental troubleshooting, and hypothesis testing. Ana is also well-versed in research ethics and laboratory safety protocols. Her cross-disciplinary training and adaptability to different research environments further enhance her technical and collaborative skills. These competencies position her strongly for advanced research roles and contribute to her effectiveness as a young investigator in biomedical science.

Awards and Honors

Although early in her academic career, Ana Beatriz dos Santos has already garnered notable recognition for her research contributions. She was awarded a CAPES Master’s Research Fellowship from 2023 to 2025 at the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), acknowledging her academic excellence and research potential in the field of neuroscience. Additionally, her undergraduate work earned her a PRO-IC Research Fellowship between 2021 and 2023 at the Universidade Federal do Pampa, supporting her investigations into oxidative stress and developmental biology. In 2024, Ana was accepted as a member of the International Society for Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD), reflecting her alignment with global efforts to understand early-life origins of health and disease. These honors not only illustrate the quality and impact of her scientific work but also underscore her dedication to rigorous and socially relevant research. While she is still progressing through her doctoral studies, these awards signal a promising research trajectory and growing academic visibility. Ana’s record suggests strong potential for future distinctions and leadership roles within the scientific community as she continues to contribute to the understanding of redox biology and neurodevelopmental disorders.

Conclusion

Ana Beatriz dos Santos is a highly capable and motivated young researcher who has demonstrated a consistent trajectory of academic excellence, scientific productivity, and intellectual curiosity. With a strong foundation in biological sciences and specialized expertise in neuroscience and oxidative metabolism, she is well-positioned to contribute significantly to the fields of developmental biology and neuropsychiatric research. Her hands-on research experience, peer-reviewed publications, and ability to lead independent studies at an early stage highlight her scientific maturity. Ana’s commitment to exploring the molecular underpinnings of neurodevelopmental disorders—particularly through models of oxidative stress and ferroptosis—adds depth and relevance to her work. She brings a rare combination of technical expertise, analytical thinking, and an interdisciplinary approach to complex biomedical questions. Her research not only advances fundamental knowledge but also holds translational potential for therapeutic strategies. While her journey is just beginning, Ana’s accomplishments to date signal strong potential for future leadership in research. In light of her demonstrated dedication, impactful contributions, and long-term vision, Ana Beatriz dos Santos is an excellent candidate for the Best Researcher Award and a promising figure in the next generation of biomedical scientists.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Permissible concentration of mancozeb in Brazilian drinking water elicits oxidative stress and bioenergetic impairments in embryonic zebrafish
    Authors: Paganotto Leandro, Luana; Vitória Takemura Mariano, Maria; Kich Gomes, Karen; Dos Santos, Ana Beatriz; Sousa Dos Anjos, Jaciana; Rodrigues De Carvalho, Nelson; Eugênio Medina Nunes, Mauro; Farina, Marcelo; Posser, Thais; Luis Franco, Jeferson
    Journal: Environmental Pollution
    Volume: 333, Page: 122013, Year: 2023

  2. Increased iron levels and oxidative stress mediate age-related impairments in male and female Drosophila melanogaster
    Authors: Gomes, Karen Kich; Dos Santos, Ana Beatriz; Dos Anjos, Jaciana Sousa; Leandro, Luana Paganotto; Mariano, Maria Takemura; Pinheiro, Felipe Lima; Farina, Marcelo; Franco, Jeferson Luis; Posser, Thais
    Journal: Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity (Online)
    Volume: 2023, Pages: 1–10, Year: 2023

  3. Developmental iron exposure induces locomotor alterations in Drosophila: Exploring potential association with oxidative stress
    Authors: Dos Santos, Ana Beatriz; Dos Anjos, Jaciana Sousa; Dos Santos, Giany Gabriely Padão; Mariano, Maria Vitória Takemura; Leandro, Luana Paganotto; Farina, Marcelo; Franco, Jeferson Luis; Gomes, Karen Kich; Posser, Thais
    Journal: Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology C – Toxicology & Pharmacology
    Volume: 279, Page: 109861, Year: 2024

  4. Assessing the disparity: comparative toxicity of copper in zebrafish larvae exposes alarming consequences of permissible concentrations in Brazil
    Authors: Takemura Mariano, Maria Vitória; Paganotto Leandro, Luana; Gomes, Karen Kich; Dos Santos, Ana Beatriz; De Rosso, Vitor Oliveira; Dafre, Alcir Luiz; Farina, Marcelo; Posser, Thaís; Franco, Jeferson Luis
    Journal: Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part A
    Volume: 87, Pages: 166–184, Year: 2024

  5. Molecular alterations in ferroptosis and the effects of resveratrol: A systematic review
    Authors: Dos Santos, Ana Beatriz; Santos-Terra, Júlio; Carletti, Jaqueline Vieira; Deckmann, Iohanna; Gottfried, Carmem
    Journal: Journal of Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology
    Volume: 39, Pages: n/a–n/a, Year: 2025

Xiaosan Huang | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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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

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