Royston Liew | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Royston Liew | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Student at Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore

Dr. Liew Yew Meng Royston is an emerging researcher with a background in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, focusing on the molecular mechanisms underlying Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), particularly in None-B-None-C HCC patients. His research integrates engineering principles with biological sciences, offering a novel approach to understanding complex disease pathways, such as bile acid homeostasis. Dr. Royston is proactive in his research endeavors, having initiated wet-lab experiments months in advance under the guidance of Professor Pierce Chow. His work has led to significant findings in the role of post-translational modifications in liver-gut homeostasis. In addition to his research, Dr. Royston has been recognized for his innovation with multiple patents and awards, including the National Runner-Up in the James Dyson Award for his work in vertical farming. His interdisciplinary approach and commitment to advancing medical research make him a promising figure in the field of oncology and biomedical engineering.

Profile

Education

Dr. Liew Yew Meng Royston holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, where he studied from 2018 to 2022. His academic training provided a strong foundation in engineering principles, which he has effectively applied to his research in the biomedical field. During his undergraduate studies, Dr. Royston demonstrated a keen interest in integrating engineering with biological systems, laying the groundwork for his current research in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). His educational journey was marked by academic excellence, earning him a place on the Dean’s List for the 2018/2019 academic year. The interdisciplinary nature of his education has equipped Dr. Royston with the skills to approach complex biological problems with precision and innovation, making significant contributions to his field. His commitment to academic and research excellence continues to drive his pursuit of advanced knowledge in medicine and biomedical engineering.

Professional Experience

Dr. Liew Yew Meng Royston has demonstrated considerable professional experience in both research and innovation. He is currently focused on Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) research, specifically None-B-None-C HCC (NBNC HCC), where he applies his background in chemical and biomolecular engineering to investigate bile acid homeostasis and its implications for liver function. Before beginning his Duke-NUS Phase 3 Scholarly Research Project, Dr. Royston proactively engaged in preliminary research with Professor Pierce Chow, resulting in significant novel findings. His research approach integrates engineering principles with biological systems, employing techniques such as molecular pathway modeling and process optimization. Beyond his research, Dr. Royston has made notable contributions to the field of vertical farming, with a patent for a modular hydroponic system and recognition through awards like the James Dyson Award and the APAC CEO of the Year Awards. His expertise reflects a blend of scientific rigor and innovative problem-solving.

Research Interest

Dr. Liew Yew Meng Royston’s research interest centers on elucidating the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), specifically focusing on None-B-None-C Hepatocellular Carcinoma (NBNC HCC). His work involves investigating the dysregulation of bile acid homeostasis pathways and their impact on liver function in NBNC HCC patients. By applying principles from Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Dr. Royston integrates metabolomic, microbiomic, and transcriptomic data to identify critical alterations in disease mechanisms. His research explores the role of post-translational modifications, particularly acetylation of the FXR protein, in influencing bile acid production and liver-gut homeostasis. Additionally, he investigates the effects of highly processed diets on the microbiome and their subsequent role in HCC development. Dr. Royston’s interdisciplinary approach aims to deepen understanding of HCC and develop innovative strategies for its treatment, blending engineering precision with advanced biological research.

Research Skills

Dr. Liew Yew Meng Royston possesses a diverse skill set tailored to his research in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC). His skills include advanced techniques in metabolomics, microbiomics, and transcriptomics, which are essential for analyzing complex biological data. Dr. Royston is proficient in molecular pathway modeling and process optimization, applying engineering principles to biological systems. His expertise extends to wet-lab experimentation, including the study of post-translational modifications of proteins and their effects on gene transcription. Additionally, Dr. Royston employs systems-level approaches to integrate various biological and biochemical data, enhancing the precision and depth of his research. His proactive approach to research, demonstrated by initiating preliminary work and securing foundational results, further highlights his commitment and technical capabilities in addressing complex biomedical challenges.

Award and Recognition

Dr. Liew Yew Meng Royston has received significant recognition for his contributions to research and innovation. Notably, he was awarded the National Runner-Up position in the James Dyson Award in 2022 for his work on vertical farming, highlighting his innovative approach to urban agriculture. His invention of a modular hydroponic farming apparatus was patented internationally, underscoring his inventive capabilities. In addition to these achievements, Dr. Royston received the APAC CEO of the Year Awards for Most Innovative Agribusiness CEO in 2022, reflecting his impact on the agribusiness sector. His research efforts have also been supported by several grants, including the SSG Tech POC Grant of $250,000 and the SSG Founder’s Startup Grant of $50,000. Dr. Royston’s academic excellence was recognized through his inclusion on the Dean’s List at Nanyang Technological University for the academic year 2018/2019, further attesting to his dedication and outstanding performance in his field.

Conclusion

Liew Yew Meng Royston demonstrates significant potential as a researcher with a strong interdisciplinary approach and innovative mindset. His proactive research efforts, combined with his engineering background, position him as a promising candidate for the Best Researcher Award. However, enhancing his publication record and securing research grants could further solidify his standing in the research community.

Publication Top Notes

Diagnostic laparoscopy for pre-operative selection of patients with known peritoneal carcinomatosis for CRS-HIPEC: A systematic review and meta-analysis

  • Authors: Ang, A.J.Y., Liew, R.Y.M., Aw, V.Z.J., Chia, C.S., Shannon, N.B.
  • Year: 2024
  • Journal: European Journal of Surgical Oncology
  • Volume: 50
  • Issue: 11
  • Article Number: 108623

 

Mariano Marrodan | Medicine and Dentistry | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Mariano Marrodan | Medicine and Dentistry | Young Scientist Award

Surgery Resident and Fleni, Argentina.

Dr. Mariano Marrodan, MD, MSc, is a distinguished neurologist based in Buenos Aires, Argentina, with a robust background in neuroimmunology and multiple sclerosis. Currently, he serves as a Staff Neurologist at Fleni and Hospital Zonal General de Agudos Domingo Mercante. Dr. Marrodan holds a Master’s in Neuroimmunology from Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona and has completed notable fellowships at Cemcat and FLENI. His clinical research focuses on multiple sclerosis, autoimmune encephalitis, and neuroimmunology, with significant contributions to the understanding of Susac Syndrome and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders. He has published extensively in prestigious journals and is actively involved in mentoring and teaching, including directing neuroimmunology courses and coordinating virtual neuroimmunology rounds. Dr. Marrodan’s work, recognized through various awards, showcases his impact on advancing neurological research and improving patient care in Argentina and beyond.

Profile

Education

Dr. Mariano Marrodan’s educational background is distinguished by rigorous training and specialization in neurology and neuroimmunology. He earned his medical degree from Austral University in Buenos Aires, Argentina, graduating with honors in 2014. Following this, Dr. Marrodan completed his Neurology Residency at the Institute for Neurological Research Raul Carrea – FLENI from 2014 to 2018. His pursuit of specialized knowledge led him to a Clinical Fellowship in Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology at FLENI, which he completed in 2021. To further deepen his expertise, he pursued a Master’s in Neuroimmunology at the Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona (UAB), Spain, from 2022 to 2023. Additionally, he undertook a Multiple Sclerosis Research Fellowship at the Centre d’Esclerosi Múltiple de Catalunya (Cemcat) in Barcelona during the first half of 2023, augmenting his skills in advanced neuroimmunological research.

Professional Experience

Dr. Mariano Marrodan is a distinguished neurologist with extensive professional experience in both clinical and academic settings. Currently, he serves as a Staff Neurologist at Fleni in Buenos Aires, where he is involved in general neurology and the division of Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology. His role at Fleni began in June 2021 and includes contributions to inpatient services and specialized neuroimmunology care. Additionally, Dr. Marrodan works at Hospital Zonal General de Agudos Domingo Mercante and has held various roles at Fleni, including Junior Attending and Emergency Department Neurologist. His prior experience includes serving as a Staff Neurologist at the neurological rehabilitation center “La Horqueta” and as Neurology Chief Resident at FLENI. Dr. Marrodan’s background reflects a strong commitment to advancing neurology through clinical practice, research, and education.

Research Interests

Dr. Mariano Marrodan’s research focuses on advancing our understanding of neuroimmunological and neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and related conditions. His work emphasizes the pathophysiology, diagnostic strategies, and treatment outcomes of MS and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders (NMOSD). Dr. Marrodan is particularly interested in exploring the impact of novel therapeutic approaches and assessing their efficacy in real-world settings. His research involves extensive clinical and observational studies, such as evaluating the effects of oral Cladribine on MRI lesions in MS patients and developing a Latin-American database for Susac Syndrome. He is also engaged in the International MS Microbiome Study and the Argentinean Multiple Sclerosis Registry, which aim to deepen the understanding of disease mechanisms and treatment responses. Through his innovative research, Dr. Marrodan seeks to improve patient care and contribute to the global knowledge base on neuroimmunological disorders.

Research Skills

Dr. Mariano Marrodan exhibits exceptional research skills across multiple dimensions of neurology. His expertise spans clinical and basic research, with a notable focus on multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), and autoimmune encephalitis. Dr. Marrodan excels in designing and conducting observational and interventional studies, such as his principal investigator role in studies on oral Cladribine and Susac Syndrome. His proficiency extends to statistical analysis and study design, evidenced by his involvement in large-scale registries and multicentric collaborations. Dr. Marrodan’s adeptness in using advanced diagnostic tools, including MRI and immunological assessments, complements his strong publication record in high-impact journals. His leadership in coordinating neuroimmunology courses and mentoring junior researchers further underscores his commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering scientific growth. Dr. Marrodan’s multifaceted research skills make him a distinguished contributor to the field of neurology.

Awards and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Marrodan has received recognition through his roles in prestigious research projects and his contributions to significant publications. His continued involvement in high-profile academic and clinical roles indicates a respected position within his field.

Conclusion 🏅

Dr. Mariano Marrodan’s extensive research contributions, collaborative efforts, and applied clinical research make him a compelling candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work not only advances the field of neurology but also impacts clinical practice and patient outcomes on a regional and global scale.

Publications Top Notes

  • Traditional first-line treatment failure rates in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients included in the Argentinean registry (RelevarEM)
    • Authors: Carnero Contentti, E., Lopez, P.A., Patrucco, L., Alonso Serena, M., Rojas, J.I.
    • Year: 2024
  • Treatment strategies and responses for attacks of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder: A real-world retrospective cohort study
    • Authors: Carnero Contentti, E., Lopez, P.A., Pettinicchi, J.P., Caride, A., Rojas, J.I.
    • Year: 2024
  • Occurrence of area postrema syndrome during follow-up: phenotype and influence over NMOSD activity in LATAM in real-world settings
    • Authors: Pestchanker, C., Bertado Cortez, B., Lana Peixoto, M.A., Lopez, P., Carnero Contentti, E.
    • Year: 2024
  • Selection of disease modifying therapies in multiple sclerosis based on patient’s age and disease activity: Data from a nationwide registry
    • Authors: Piedrabuena, M.A., Correale, J., Fiol, M., Martinez, C.M., Ysrraelit, M.C.
    • Year: 2024
  • Clinical impact of gender and age at onset on disease trajectory in primary progressive multiple sclerosis patients
    • Authors: Camerlingo, S., Rubinstein, F., Celia Ysrraelit, M., Silva, B.A., Alonso, R.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 1
  • Incidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients with multiple sclerosis who received SARS-CoV-2 vaccines and are under treatment with high-efficacy therapies in Argentina
    • Authors: Carnero Contentti, E., López, P.A., Pappolla, A., Alonso Serena, M., Rojas, J.I.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 1
  • Diagnostic MRI Score to Differentiate Susac Syndrome from Primary Angiitis of the Central Nervous System and Multiple Sclerosis
    • Authors: Marrodan, M., Calandri, I.L., Bocancea, D.I., Fiol, M.P., Correale, J.
    • Year: 2024
  • Mortality of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder patients in an Argentinean population: A study from the RelevarEM registry
    • Authors: Carnero Contentti, E., Lopez, P.A., Pettinicchi, J.P., Paul, F., Rojas, J.I.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 4
  • Clinically relevant increases in serum neurofilament light chain and glial fibrillary acidic protein in patients with Susac syndrome
    • Authors: Plantone, D., Sabatelli, E., Locci, S., De Stefano, N., Iorio, R.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 2
  • Frequency of new asymptomatic MRI lesions during attacks and follow-up of patients with NMOSD in a real-world setting
    • Authors: Carnero Contentti, E., Lopez, P.A., Tkachuk, V., Paul, F., Rojas, J.I.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 3