Tanya Stoyanova | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Tanya Stoyanova | Cancer Biology | Best Researcher Award

University of California, Los Angeles, United States

Dr. Tanya Stoyanova is an accomplished Associate Professor with tenure in the Departments of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology and Urology at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she also serves as Department Vice Chair for Inclusive Excellence. She earned a B.S. in Ecology and Environmental Protection from the Technical University of Varna, Bulgaria (2001), a B.S. in Biology from the University of Kansas, USA (2003), and a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics from the University of Illinois, Chicago (2009), followed by a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship in Cancer and Stem Cell Biology at UCLA under Prof. Owen Witte (2009–2015). Her professional experience spans roles at Stanford University as Assistant and later Associate Professor of Radiology (2015–2022), before returning to UCLA to assume leadership in cancer research and faculty governance. Dr. Stoyanova’s research interests focus on cancer biology, molecular pharmacology, stem cell biology, biomarker discovery, and targeted therapeutics, with emphasis on prostate, lung, and epithelial cancers. She has led multiple NIH and Department of Defense–funded projects exploring novel molecular targets such as Trop2, UCHL1, ATAD2, and GSTP1, advancing minimally invasive diagnostics and innovative treatment strategies. Skilled in molecular genetics, biochemistry, cancer model systems, and translational pharmacology, she has contributed extensively to high-impact journals including Nature Cancer, Science Advances, and Clinical and Translational Medicine, while serving on editorial boards for Frontiers in Oncology and The Prostate. Her distinguished honors include the NIH/NCI R37 MERIT Award, multiple Department of Defense Idea Development Awards, the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center Ablon Scholars Award, the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation Pilot Award, and the Society of Basic Urologic Research Young Investigator Award. In conclusion, Dr. Stoyanova’s blend of academic excellence, research innovation, international collaboration, and commitment to mentorship and inclusivity positions her as a global leader in translational cancer research, with strong potential to further advance diagnostics and therapies that significantly impact healthcare outcomes.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar | Staff Page

Featured Publications

  1. Lee, J. K., Phillips, J. W., Smith, B. A., Park, J. W., Stoyanova, T., McCaffrey, E. F., … (2016). N-Myc drives neuroendocrine prostate cancer initiated from human prostate epithelial cells. Cancer Cell, 29(4), 536–547.

  2. Liu, F., Vermesh, O., Mani, V., Ge, T. J., Madsen, S. J., Sabour, A., Hsu, E. C., … (2017). The exosome total isolation chip. ACS Nano, 11(11), 10712–10723.

  3. Rice, M. A., Malhotra, S. V., & Stoyanova, T. (2019). Second-generation antiandrogens: From discovery to standard of care in castration resistant prostate cancer. Frontiers in Oncology, 9, 801.

  4. Ghoochani, A., Hsu, E. C., Aslan, M., Rice, M. A., Nguyen, H. M., Brooks, J. D., … (2021). Ferroptosis inducers are a novel therapeutic approach for advanced prostate cancer. Cancer Research, 81(6), 1583–1594.

  5. Drake, J. M., Paull, E. O., Graham, N. A., Lee, J. K., Smith, B. A., Titz, B., Stoyanova, T., … (2016). Phosphoproteome integration reveals patient-specific networks in prostate cancer. Cell, 166(4), 1041–1054.

Jan Hendrik Muller | Oncology and Pathology | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Jan Hendrik Muller | Oncology and Pathology | Best Researcher Award

University Clinic Hamburg Eppendorf | Germany

Mr. Jan Hendrik Müller is an accomplished researcher in molecular life sciences with a specialization in cancer proteomics and translational medicine. Currently pursuing his Ph.D. at the Institute of Pathology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, he has established himself as a promising scientist with expertise in cutting-edge proteomic technologies such as LC-MS/MS and mass spectrometry. His academic career reflects a strong foundation in molecular biology, proteomics, and life science research, supported by rigorous training at leading German institutions including the University of Hamburg and Leibniz University Hannover. Jan’s research focuses on understanding cancer biology at the proteomic level, with the aim of identifying novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Alongside his academic journey, he has contributed as a research assistant in internationally recognized groups, gaining practical experience in experimental oncology, T-cell research, and collaborative scientific projects. His involvement in both laboratory research and medical volunteer work highlights his dedication to bridging science and societal benefit. Beyond technical expertise, Jan brings leadership, adaptability, and teamwork to his professional profile, making him a well-rounded candidate for recognition. His ability to integrate scientific curiosity with practical applications positions him as a researcher with significant potential to impact both academia and medical science in the future.

Professional Profile

Education

Mr. Jan Hendrik Müller has pursued a progressive and rigorous academic journey in the field of life sciences, developing expertise in molecular biology, proteomics, and translational medicine. He began his higher education at Leibniz University Hannover, where he earned his Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Life Science. During his undergraduate years, Jan developed proficiency in molecular biology techniques including PCR, protein isolation, and confocal microscopy. His bachelor’s thesis, titled “The effects of dextran sodium sulfate on the barrier function of epithelial cells,” allowed him to gain experience in cell culture and epithelial biology. Following this, Jan pursued his Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Molecular Life Science at the University of Hamburg, completing his degree with excellent academic standing. His master’s studies were research-oriented, involving advanced training in proteomics under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Hartmut Schlüter. His projects included mass spectrometry analysis of prostate cancer tissue, contributing to translational cancer research. Building upon this foundation, Jan is currently enrolled in a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, focusing on cancer proteomics and drug response profiling. His educational background demonstrates consistent excellence, hands-on laboratory expertise, and a strong commitment to advancing biomedical research.

Professional Experience

Mr. Jan Hendrik Müller’s professional experience demonstrates a balanced combination of academic research, laboratory training, and clinical exposure. Early in his career, he trained as a paramedic and served in hospital settings, gaining valuable insights into patient care and surgical assistance, particularly in orthopedic surgeries. These experiences nurtured his sense of responsibility and motivated his transition from clinical service to biomedical research. During his academic career, he worked as a Research Assistant in the laboratory of Prof. Dr. Hartmut Schlüter at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf. There, he specialized in proteomic analysis of prostate cancer tissue using LC-MS/MS, gaining expertise in mass spectrometry, sample preparation, and proteomic pathway analysis. He also contributed to collaborative projects on T-cell immunotherapy, including viral transduction and functional assays for CAR-T-cell research. In addition, Jan has managed laboratory responsibilities such as cryobank administration and patient sample handling, demonstrating both technical and organizational skills. His professional development is also marked by active teamwork in multidisciplinary projects and community service in hospital environments. These diverse experiences highlight his ability to integrate clinical relevance with scientific discovery, making him a well-rounded researcher equipped for impactful contributions to cancer biology and translational medicine.

Research Interests

Mr. Jan Hendrik Müller’s research interests lie at the intersection of molecular biology, proteomics, and translational oncology. His primary focus is the proteomic profiling of cancer tissues, particularly prostate cancer, using advanced techniques such as liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Through this approach, he seeks to unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer progression and drug responses, with the goal of identifying novel therapeutic targets and biomarkers for early diagnosis. In addition to cancer proteomics, Jan is also interested in immunotherapy research, having gained experience in CAR-T-cell biology, viral transduction methods, and T-cell functional assays. His broader research goals include integrating proteomic data with systems biology to provide holistic insights into cellular pathways affected by novel drug treatments. Beyond oncology, Jan shows interest in the applications of molecular life sciences in personalized medicine, aiming to develop strategies that bridge fundamental research with clinical application. His interdisciplinary approach reflects his commitment to collaborative science, combining expertise in molecular biology, analytical chemistry, and clinical medicine. Ultimately, his research interests highlight a forward-looking vision to contribute meaningfully to cancer research, drug development, and precision medicine.

Research Skills

Over the course of his academic and professional journey, Mr. Jan Hendrik Müller has developed a broad and advanced skill set in experimental life sciences and proteomics. His expertise includes molecular biology techniques such as PCR, protein production, blotting, and electrophoresis, alongside advanced cell culture methods, including the maintenance of various cell lines and epithelial barrier function analysis. He is proficient in high-level proteomic methodologies, particularly LC-MS/MS and mass spectrometry-based proteome analysis, enabling him to study complex biological samples with precision. In the field of immunology, he has acquired skills in isolation, expansion, and viral transduction of T-cells, as well as functional CAR-T-cell assays. Jan also has experience in fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), confocal microscopy, and proteomic pathway analysis, demonstrating technical versatility. Beyond laboratory skills, he is proficient in bioinformatics tools such as ImageJ, Matlab, and LaTeX for data visualization and documentation. His certifications include Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), further enhancing his competency in clinical-grade research. In addition, Jan has proven skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and communication, strengthened by his volunteer work in medical and community settings. Together, his research skills position him as a highly capable scientist ready to contribute to complex biomedical projects.

Awards and Honors

While still in the early stages of his academic career, Mr. Jan Hendrik Müller has already received recognition for his academic and professional excellence. During his Master of Science program at the University of Hamburg, he achieved excellent grades, including a distinction in several advanced courses. His bachelor’s and master’s theses received commendation for their originality and scientific rigor, particularly in the field of proteomics and epithelial biology. Jan has also been awarded a certificate in Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), reflecting his adherence to the highest standards of laboratory and clinical research practices. In addition to formal recognition, his contribution to research projects under internationally respected mentors such as Prof. Dr. Hartmut Schlüter has allowed him to build a reputation as a promising scientist in proteomics research. His community service in hospital environments and volunteer platforms further demonstrate his commitment to societal well-being. While he has yet to receive large-scale international honors, his strong research foundation, combined with his growing publication record and academic contributions, suggests a career trajectory that will lead to greater recognition in the global scientific community in the near future.

Publication TOp Notes

  • High-level STING expression in tumour and inflammatory cells is linked to microsatellite instability and favourable tumour parameters in a cohort of over 1,900 colorectal cancer patients — 2025

  • A Tc1- and Th1-T-lymphocyte-rich tumor microenvironment is a hallmark of MSI colorectal cancer — 2025

  • Prognostic Impact and Spatial Interplay of Immune Cells in Urothelial Cancer — 2024

  • Loss of TROP2 and epithelial cell adhesion molecule expression is linked to grade progression in pTa but unrelated to disease outcome in pT2-4 urothelial bladder carcinomas — 2024

  • Automated Prognosis Marker Assessment in Breast Cancers Using BLEACH&STAIN Multiplexed Immunohistochemistry — 2023

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mr. Jan Hendrik Müller exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated and innovative young researcher in the field of molecular life sciences and cancer proteomics. His academic excellence, demonstrated through his bachelor’s, master’s, and ongoing Ph.D. studies, reflects his consistent pursuit of scientific knowledge and translational medicine. His professional experiences, ranging from hospital assistance to advanced cancer proteomic research, reveal a well-rounded individual capable of integrating clinical insights with laboratory discoveries. With expertise in proteomics, immunotherapy, and molecular biology, Jan has built a diverse skill set that positions him as a valuable contributor to biomedical science. His community involvement, volunteer medical service, and collaborative research engagements highlight his leadership qualities and social responsibility. While there is room for further recognition through expanded publications and global collaborations, his trajectory demonstrates great promise. Jan is not only contributing to cancer research but is also laying the foundation for impactful work in personalized medicine and future healthcare innovation. These achievements, combined with his dedication, make him a deserving candidate for recognition and a strong contender for future leadership in biomedical research.

Zhen Ma | Surgical Oncology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zhen Ma | Surgical Oncology | Best Researcher Award

Chief Resident from The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, China

Dr. Zhen Ma is a skilled surgical oncologist specializing in gastrointestinal malignancies with advanced training in minimally invasive and robotic surgical procedures. His professional practice centers at The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University, a Grade A tertiary institution in China, where he leads surgical interventions in gastric, hepatic, and colorectal cancers. In addition to his clinical responsibilities, Dr. Ma is a dedicated researcher whose work explores resistance mechanisms in gastrointestinal tumors and innovations in surgical technology. He has authored over seven first-author publications in reputable peer-reviewed journals, contributing to the growing body of knowledge in oncology and surgical techniques. Furthermore, Dr. Ma has played key roles in more than 16 phase I–III clinical trials related to advanced solid tumors, demonstrating his expertise in clinical trial management and cancer therapeutics. His ability to integrate clinical expertise with research insights positions him as an emerging leader in surgical oncology. He is fluent in medical English, possesses extensive training in research methodologies, and actively contributes to the evolution of cancer care in China. With ongoing involvement in national research projects, clinical innovations, and the development of surgical devices, Dr. Ma exemplifies the qualities of a modern clinician-scientist committed to translational medicine and precision oncology.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Zhen Ma has pursued a rigorous academic pathway that reflects his dedication to excellence in medicine and oncology. He earned his Bachelor of Medicine (B.M.) in Clinical Medicine from Wuhan University (2006–2011), one of China’s top medical institutions. Following this, he completed a Master of Medicine (M.M.) in Surgery at the prestigious Zhejiang University from 2012 to 2015, where he deepened his surgical skills and began his early clinical work. His academic journey culminated with a Ph.D. in Oncology, with a focus on digestive tract tumors, from Lanzhou University (2019–2024), an institution known for its cancer research in northwest China. His doctoral research has concentrated on chemoresistance mechanisms and autophagy-related genes in gastric cancer. Each academic phase has equipped Dr. Ma with a solid foundation in clinical medicine, advanced surgical practice, and scientific research. His education reflects a balance between practical surgical expertise and a sophisticated understanding of molecular oncology. By pursuing advanced degrees from diverse top-tier universities, Dr. Ma has gained a multidisciplinary academic background that enhances his ability to approach oncological challenges from both a clinical and research perspective.

Professional Experience

Dr. Zhen Ma has cultivated a comprehensive professional background as a practicing surgical oncologist and academic researcher. He began his medical career as a surgeon at The Second Hospital of Lanzhou University in 2015, where he initially focused on thyroid oncology using minimally invasive approaches. In 2018, he advanced to the position of attending surgeon in the Department of Surgical Oncology, specializing in the surgical management of gastric, colorectal, hepatic, and biliary tract cancers. He is proficient in Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols, which have significantly improved patient outcomes, reducing complications by 30%. He also pioneered the clinical use of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence navigation for bilioenteric anastomosis, lowering leakage rates to below 2%. In addition to his surgical work, Dr. Ma has inserted and maintained over 100 venous infusion ports to facilitate chemotherapy for cancer patients. His professional practice is marked by a blend of innovative surgical intervention, commitment to patient safety, and continuous adoption of cutting-edge techniques. He has also served as the lead surgeon in device innovation trials and co-investigator on national-level oncology research projects, illustrating his seamless integration of clinical excellence with medical innovation and translational research.

Research Interests

Dr. Zhen Ma’s research interests are rooted in gastrointestinal oncology, with a specific focus on molecular mechanisms of chemoresistance, autophagy-related gene signatures, and minimally invasive surgical innovations. His doctoral work investigates how autophagy influences prognosis and treatment outcomes in gastric and hepatocellular carcinomas. Dr. Ma is deeply engaged in translational research that bridges molecular biology with clinical application, exemplified by his participation in studies exploring gene markers for drug resistance and survival prediction. Additionally, he has developed an interest in robotic and laparoscopic techniques as part of enhancing surgical precision and patient recovery. His participation in numerous clinical trials, including phase III studies on SOX-based chemotherapy regimens and targeted immunotherapy agents such as camrelizumab, reflects his dedication to integrating novel systemic therapies into surgical oncology. Another critical area of his research includes medical device innovation, where he led clinical trials on laparoscopic endoscopic systems for splenectomy and thyroid surgery. Overall, Dr. Ma’s research demonstrates a comprehensive approach to cancer care that includes genetics, clinical treatment optimization, and real-time surgical navigation—all aimed at improving survival rates and quality of life for gastrointestinal cancer patients.

Research Skills

Dr. Zhen Ma possesses a strong portfolio of technical and research skills that support his role as a clinician-scientist. Technically, he is adept at laparoscopic and robotic surgical techniques, ICG fluorescence imaging, thyroidectomy, and venous port placement, which are core to his surgical oncology practice. On the research side, Dr. Ma is proficient in clinical trial design and execution, supported by his Good Clinical Practice (GCP) certification. He is skilled in molecular biology techniques that include autophagy-related gene analysis and immunological assessments—crucial for understanding tumor behavior and therapy resistance. In data analysis, Dr. Ma uses software such as SPSS and R for biostatistical modeling, survival analysis, and interpretation of clinical data. He also has experience drafting case reports, literature reviews, and scientific papers for international journals. His language proficiency in both Mandarin and medical English allows him to collaborate across institutions and contribute to global research discourse. These skills make him well-equipped to design impactful studies, evaluate complex datasets, and implement innovative surgical and medical interventions with academic rigor and ethical integrity.

Awards and Honors

Although specific national or international awards are not listed in the available information, Dr. Zhen Ma’s career achievements reflect honors of clinical innovation and research leadership. Notably, he is the lead inventor of two patents: one for an abdominal belt to prevent drainage tube compression, and another for a nutrition tube unblocking device, both granted in 2020. These inventions show his ability to translate bedside challenges into tangible medical devices, which is a hallmark of applied medical innovation. Additionally, his successful participation as a Principal Investigator (PI) and Sub-Investigator (Sub-I) in high-level multicenter clinical trials reflects recognition from the national research community and pharmaceutical collaborators. His role in government-funded research projects, such as the National Health Commission GI Tumor Lab and the NSFC dual liver transplant immunology study, signifies peer trust and institutional acknowledgment of his research capacity. Furthermore, his appointment as an attending surgeon at a Grade A tertiary hospital at a relatively early stage in his career highlights the institutional confidence in his clinical and academic capabilities. These achievements position him as an award-worthy researcher contributing meaningfully to clinical practice and surgical science.

Conclusion

Dr. Zhen Ma is a dedicated and forward-thinking surgical oncologist who integrates clinical excellence with research-driven innovation. With an academic background from top Chinese universities and clinical experience at a leading tertiary care hospital, he has built a robust foundation in both patient care and medical science. His research in autophagy and chemoresistance contributes valuable insights to gastrointestinal cancer management, while his involvement in clinical trials bridges cutting-edge therapies with real-world application. His technical innovations, including ICG-guided surgery and patented medical devices, further demonstrate his commitment to enhancing patient outcomes through practical solutions. Dr. Ma’s work exemplifies the principles of translational medicine—moving from bench to bedside with measurable impact. Though early in his academic career, he has already achieved notable success in publications, research leadership, and surgical outcomes. With potential for expanded international collaboration and high-impact research publication, Dr. Ma is well-positioned to continue advancing the field of surgical oncology. As such, he represents an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award, honoring both his past accomplishments and his promising future contributions to medicine and clinical science.

Publications Top Notes

1. Comparative investigation of early-onset gastric cancer
Authors: Ma Z, Liu X, Paul ME, Chen M, Zheng P, Chen H
Year: 2021

2. Real-time indocyanine green fluorescence technique reduces anastomotic leakage in bilioenteric anastomosis: A case report and literature review
Authors: Ma Z, Deng J, Ma B, Chen H
Year: 2023

3. Identification and verification of a prognostic autophagy-related gene signature in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ma Z, Chen M, Liu X, Cui H
Year: 2024

4. Robotic Versus Total Laparoscopic Splenectomy With Pericardial Devascularisation for Portal Hypertension: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ma Z, Cui H, Gaoi L, Ma B, He P, Yu Y, Wang Y, Ma Y, Chen H
Year: 2025

5. Prevention of ERCP complications
Authors: Ma Z, Li X, et al.
Year: 2019

6. Liver transplantation in primary sclerosing cholangitis
Authors: Ma Z, Tao P, et al.
Year: 2018