Jingwen Zhang | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Jingwen Zhang | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Research Fellow from The University of Melbourne, Australia

Dr. Jingwen Zhang is an emerging epidemiologist specializing in respiratory health, particularly chronic cough in adults. Currently serving as a Research Fellow at the Allergy and Lung Health Unit, The University of Melbourne, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to impactful public health research. With academic training in clinical medicine, public health, and epidemiology, Dr. Zhang brings a unique multidisciplinary perspective to her work. Her research is recognized at both national and international levels, having received prestigious scholarships, competitive grants, and multiple awards for her presentations. She has published extensively and has provided significant contributions as a peer reviewer for leading journals, including The Lancet and New England Journal of Medicine. Beyond her research, Dr. Zhang is actively engaged in teaching, mentoring postgraduate students, organizing scientific meetings, and participating in collaborative initiatives that aim to advance respiratory health research. Her work has attracted considerable media attention, reflecting its relevance to the broader public. Dr. Zhang’s dedication to improving respiratory health outcomes, her leadership in the research community, and her drive for continuous professional development make her a distinguished figure in the field of epidemiology with great potential for future leadership on a global scale.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Jingwen Zhang’s academic journey is a blend of excellence in clinical and public health disciplines. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Philosophy (Epidemiology) at The University of Melbourne, Australia, from 2019 to 2024. Her research focuses on the epidemiology of adult chronic cough, supported by the prestigious University of Melbourne and China Scholarship Council Joint Scholarship. This scholarship covers her tuition fees and provides a substantial living stipend, reflecting the competitiveness of her candidature. Prior to this, she earned a Master of Public Health with First Class Honours from The University of Melbourne in 2018, showcasing her early academic excellence in the public health domain. Her undergraduate degree in Clinical Medicine, obtained from Qingdao University, China, in 2016, provided her with a strong foundation in medical sciences. This diverse educational background equips her with critical clinical insights and advanced epidemiological skills, making her uniquely capable of translating clinical problems into population-based research solutions. Throughout her studies, Dr. Zhang has actively pursued advanced training and upskilling workshops in contemporary epidemiology, clinical trials, and causal inference, further enhancing her scientific competence and professional readiness to address complex public health issues.

Professional Experience

Dr. Jingwen Zhang’s professional journey is marked by progressive research and academic responsibilities. Since 2023, she has been working as a Research Fellow at the Allergy and Lung Health Unit, The University of Melbourne, contributing to cutting-edge respiratory health research. Between 2021 and 2023, she served as a Research Assistant at the same institution, where she supported numerous projects in chronic cough and lung health epidemiology. Her experience extends to academic teaching as a casual tutor at the Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics in 2021, where she taught core epidemiology subjects and developed teaching materials for advanced courses. Earlier in her career, in 2016, she worked as a teacher and administrative officer at Amio International Education in China, which provided her with valuable organizational and communication skills. Dr. Zhang’s career also reflects her active participation in scientific committee meetings, leadership in organizing collaborative research initiatives, and volunteer contributions at major scientific conferences. These experiences demonstrate her dedication to academic service and her capacity for multi-tasking across research, teaching, mentoring, and community engagement. Her sustained involvement in both the academic and clinical research environment showcases her readiness to contribute at a higher level within the international research community.

Research Interest

Dr. Jingwen Zhang’s primary research interest lies in the epidemiology of chronic cough and its broader implications for respiratory health. Her doctoral research focuses on understanding chronic cough phenotypes and identifying occupational and environmental risk factors associated with different cough types among middle-aged adults. She is particularly interested in how long-term exposure to air pollution and other environmental factors contribute to chronic respiratory conditions. Her work also explores the epidemiology of asthma-COPD overlap and interventions to improve lung function among adults and children. Dr. Zhang’s research interests extend to the development of evidence-based clinical and public health strategies for improving lung health outcomes. Additionally, she is committed to applying advanced epidemiological methods, including causal inference, longitudinal data analysis, and systematic reviews, to address pressing public health issues. She is passionate about translating complex research findings into actionable insights that can shape policy, clinical practice, and public awareness. Dr. Zhang is also actively involved in collaborative cohort studies such as TAHS and PRECURSOR, which provide large-scale data for respiratory health research. Through her multi-dimensional research focus, Dr. Zhang aims to bridge the gap between clinical observations and population health interventions, ultimately improving respiratory disease management and prevention strategies.

Research Skills

Dr. Jingwen Zhang possesses a diverse and highly applicable skill set that supports her work in epidemiology and respiratory health research. She is proficient in advanced epidemiological study designs, data cleaning, and statistical analysis, with strong expertise in using statistical software such as R and REDCap. Dr. Zhang has completed specialized training in causal inference, clinical trials, reproducible research, and contemporary epidemiology, equipping her with the methodological tools necessary for high-impact research. She has substantial experience in data management, including cleaning and processing large cohort datasets, spirometry data, and address tracking for environmental exposure studies. Dr. Zhang is also skilled in systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and longitudinal study methodologies. Additionally, she has developed teaching skills through her involvement in tutorials, course material development, and student assessment. Dr. Zhang’s experience extends to manuscript preparation, scientific communication, and peer reviewing for high-ranking journals. Her organizational capabilities are evident through her role in coordinating large research initiatives, managing academic social media platforms, and hosting scientific meetings. With strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication, Dr. Zhang’s research skills enable her to contribute meaningfully to multidisciplinary teams and deliver impactful epidemiological research outcomes.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her academic and professional journey, Dr. Jingwen Zhang has received several prestigious awards and honors that recognize her contributions to respiratory epidemiology. In 2022, she won the Best Poster Award at the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand Annual Scientific Meeting for her work on occupational risks associated with novel cough phenotypes. In 2023, she received the Golden Prize at the 4th International Cough Conference for her oral presentation on the associations between air pollutants and cough types in middle-aged adults, a recognition that included funding for accommodation and travel. Dr. Zhang was awarded the University of Melbourne and China Scholarship Council Joint Scholarship, a highly competitive program covering both tuition fees and a generous living stipend for her Ph.D. studies. She also secured the PHIRST Grant in 2021 and multiple travel grants in 2024, including the TSANZ Janet Elder International Travel Award. Dr. Zhang’s excellence extends beyond awards, as she has been invited to review manuscripts for leading journals like The Lancet, Thorax, New England Journal of Medicine, and European Respiratory Journal, showcasing her growing influence in the research community. These accolades reflect her scientific rigor, leadership potential, and dedication to improving public health outcomes.

Conclusion

Dr. Jingwen Zhang exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding early-career researcher with a promising future in the field of epidemiology and respiratory health. Her strong academic foundation, research productivity, and active participation in academic service position her as a rising leader in public health research. Dr. Zhang’s work addresses a critical gap in chronic cough epidemiology and contributes valuable knowledge with the potential to influence clinical guidelines and public health policies. She has successfully combined rigorous research with impactful community engagement and international scientific dissemination. Her role as a mentor and organizer further demonstrates her leadership and commitment to building collaborative research environments. With further opportunities to expand international collaborations, increase first-author publications in top-tier journals, and lead larger research grants, Dr. Zhang is well-positioned to achieve global recognition in her field. Her comprehensive skill set, exceptional dedication, and passion for improving respiratory health outcomes make her a highly deserving candidate for prestigious research awards and continued academic advancement. Dr. Zhang’s career trajectory reflects not only her scientific excellence but also her potential to drive meaningful change in public health both nationally and internationally.

Publications Top Notes

1. Associations Between Occupational Exposures and Cough Subclasses Among Middle‐Aged Australians

  • Authors: Jingwen Zhang, Jennifer L. Perret, Dinh S. Bui, Sheikh M. Alif, Michael J. Abramson, Anne B. Chang, Hans Kromhout, Garun S. Hamilton, Paul S. Thomas, Bircan Erbas, et al.

  • Year: 2025

2. Chronic Bronchitis in Children and Adults: Definitions, Pathophysiology, Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Consequences

  • Authors: Jingwen Zhang, Danielle F. Wurzel, Jennifer L. Perret, Caroline J. Lodge, E. Haydn Walters, Shyamali C. Dharmage

  • Year: 2024

3. Association of Novel Adult Cough Subclasses With Clinical Characteristics and Lung Function Across Six Decades of Life in a Prospective, Community-Based Cohort in Australia: An Analysis of the Tasmanian Longitudinal Health Study (TAHS)

  • Authors: Jingwen Zhang, Caroline J. Lodge, E. Haydn Walters, Anne B. Chang, Dinh S. Bui, Adrian J. Lowe, Garun S. Hamilton, Paul S. Thomas, Chamara V. Senaratna, Alan L. James, et al.

  • Year: 2024

4. A Review of the Role of Pollen in COVID-19 Infection

  • Authors: Nur Sabrina Idrose, Jingwen Zhang, Caroline J. Lodge, Bircan Erbas, Jo A. Douglass, Dinh S. Bui, Shyamali C. Dharmage

  • Year: 2023

5. Risk Factors for Chronic Cough in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

  • Authors: Jingwen Zhang, Jennifer L. Perret, Anne B. Chang, Nur S. Idrose, Dinh S. Bui, Adrian J. Lowe, Michael J. Abramson, E. Haydn Walters, Caroline J. Lodge, Shyamali C. Dharmage

  • Year: 2022

6. Serum Cytokine Concentrations and Asthma Persistence to Middle Age

  • Authors: Jingwen Zhang, Eugene H. Walters, Mimi L. K. Tang, Adrian J. Lowe, Caroline J. Lodge, Dinh Bui, Rangi Kandane‐Rathnayake, Bircan Erbas, Garun S. Hamilton, Bruce R. Thompson, et al.

  • Year: 2020

YILIN LI | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. YILIN LI | Chemical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Senior scientist from Heilongjiang Feihe Dairy Co., Ltd, China

Dr. Yilin Li is a highly accomplished researcher specializing in food sensory science with nearly 7 years of experience in both academic and commercial settings. Currently, she serves as the Sensory Lead at Heilongjiang Feihe Dairy Co., Ltd in China, where her work integrates consumer sensory testing techniques to guide research and development in new product creation. Additionally, Dr. Li has contributed significantly to the application of molecular sensory technology, developing quantitative models to monitor flavor compounds in milk powder during its shelf life. Her research has been widely recognized in the field, and her scientific contributions have been published in prestigious journals such as the Journal of Food Science and Food Chemistry. As a committee member of the Sensory Quality and Consumer Insights Standardization Technical Committee and the National Sensory Analysis Standardization Technical Committee, Dr. Li also plays an instrumental role in shaping industry standards.

Her research interests primarily focus on sensory evaluation, flavor perception, and consumer preferences, specifically in relation to food products such as chocolate and milk-based goods. Dr. Li’s work has profound implications for the food industry, where she bridges the gap between scientific discovery and commercial product development.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Yilin Li’s educational background reflects a strong foundation in sensory science and food technology. She holds a Ph.D. with research focusing on the impact of nutrient addition on the sensory and oral flavor perception of chocolate by consumers. This research explored how different ingredients in chocolate affect the consumer’s flavor experience, offering valuable insights into how food formulations can be improved to align with consumer preferences.

In addition to her Ph.D., Dr. Li completed her Master’s degree with a specialization in Microencapsulation and Sensory Science. Her education has equipped her with the scientific expertise needed to pursue innovative research in the areas of food sensory science, consumer behavior, and food quality. Her academic training has also led to substantial contributions to the understanding of sensory dynamics in the food industry, particularly regarding how storage conditions and ingredient modifications affect food perceptions.

Dr. Li’s advanced studies, coupled with her practical industry experience, enable her to approach research with a well-rounded perspective, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on application.

Professional Experience

Dr. Yilin Li has nearly 7 years of professional experience in food sensory science research and 3 years of commercial practice in the sensory science field. She currently holds the position of Sensory Lead at Heilongjiang Feihe Dairy Co., Ltd in China. In this role, she is responsible for overseeing the sensory evaluation of food products, guiding the R&D department in creating new products based on consumer sensory feedback. Dr. Li applies advanced sensory testing techniques to ensure that the flavors, textures, and overall consumer preferences of products meet industry standards.

Her commercial experience also includes the application of molecular sensory technology, where she developed a quantitative model for the flavor compounds in milk powder during its shelf life. This model has had significant practical implications, helping the quality control department at Feihe Dairy maintain product consistency and quality over time.

Dr. Li’s research has always focused on bridging the gap between academic research and real-world commercial application, demonstrating her ability to contribute to both the scientific community and the food industry in meaningful ways.

Research Interests

Dr. Yilin Li’s research interests are centered on sensory science, with a specific focus on consumer preferences and the perception of food flavors. Her work investigates how sensory factors such as taste, smell, and texture affect the consumer experience of food products. One of her key research areas is exploring how different ingredients and nutrient additions can alter the flavor perception of chocolate, a project that has applications in the formulation of better-tasting, more consumer-friendly products.

In addition to chocolate, Dr. Li’s work extends to other food products, including infant formula and milk-based powders. She has conducted extensive research on the sensory evaluation of long-term storage conditions for products such as vacuum-packed corn and infant formula, monitoring how volatile compounds and flavor profiles evolve during storage.

By applying molecular sensory technology, Dr. Li’s research explores how to better predict and control the sensory quality of food over time, with a particular interest in developing models that can be used in both industrial and consumer-facing applications. Her research bridges the gap between food science and consumer behavior, focusing on creating products that align with consumer expectations and preferences.

Research Skills

Dr. Yilin Li possesses advanced research skills in sensory science, consumer behavior analysis, and food quality evaluation. Her expertise includes designing and conducting sensory tests to assess consumer preferences and product acceptability, particularly in the context of flavor and texture. She is proficient in using molecular sensory technology to monitor volatile compounds and flavor changes in food products over time, applying these methods to improve product quality and consistency.

Her ability to integrate both qualitative and quantitative approaches to sensory evaluation allows her to develop predictive models for food flavor compounds, which have been successfully applied in commercial settings. Additionally, Dr. Li is skilled in utilizing techniques such as gas chromatography-olfactometry-mass spectrometry (GC-O-MS) for sensory evaluation, providing detailed insights into the sensory drivers of consumer preferences.

Dr. Li also has a solid foundation in scientific writing and publishing, having authored several articles in high-impact journals. Her research skills extend beyond technical expertise to include leadership and collaboration, particularly in her work with standardization committees that shape the practices and guidelines of sensory science.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Yilin Li has earned recognition in both the academic and commercial sectors for her contributions to food sensory science. Her work has been published in top-tier journals, where it has garnered attention for its innovative approach to sensory evaluation and its impact on food product development. Dr. Li’s commitment to advancing the field has been recognized by her involvement in several key standardization committees, including the Sensory Quality and Consumer Insights Standardization Technical Committee and the National Sensory Analysis Standardization Technical Committee (SAC/TC566).

These roles have not only enhanced her leadership within the industry but also showcased her dedication to improving the standards of sensory science. While specific awards and honors are not listed, her active participation in shaping sensory science practices and her contributions to product development at Feihe Dairy further highlight her recognition within the field.

Conclusion

Dr. Yilin Li stands out as a leading figure in food sensory science, combining a robust academic background with practical, industry-driven research. Her work, which spans both academic theory and commercial application, has made a lasting impact on food product development, particularly in the areas of sensory evaluation, flavor perception, and consumer preferences. Through her innovative use of molecular sensory technology and her contributions to the development of predictive models for food quality, Dr. Li has significantly advanced the understanding of how sensory factors affect food enjoyment. Her leadership roles in industry-standardization committees further emphasize her influence in shaping the future of sensory science practices. While her work is already highly impactful, there is potential for Dr. Li to expand her research scope and enhance collaboration with interdisciplinary teams to further advance the field. Overall, Dr. Li’s dedication to improving both the scientific understanding and commercial applications of sensory science makes her an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Organic Functional Groups and Their Substitution Sites in Natural Flavonoids: A Review on Their Contributions to Antioxidant, Anti‐Inflammatory, and Analgesic Capabilities
    Journal: Food Science & Nutrition
    Year: 2025
    DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.70191
    Authors: Jingxian An, Zhipeng Zhang, Anwen Jin, Muqiu Tan, Shilong Jiang, Yilin Li

  2. Title: Sensory Insights in Aging: Exploring the Impact on Improving Dietary Through Sensory Enhancement
    Journal: Food Science & Nutrition
    Year: 2025
    DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.70074
    Authors: Yilin Li, Shuying Wang, Lanxin Zhang, Qianhui Dong, Xinyu Hu, Yuxin Yang, Ting Liu, Baopei Wu, Bingqi Shan, Chuncao Yin et al.

  3. Title: Changes of the Volatile Compounds and Odors in One-Stage and Three-Stage Infant Formulas During Their Secondary Shelf-Life
    Journal: Current Research in Food Science
    Year: 2024
    DOI: 10.1016/j.crfs.2024.100693
    Authors: Yilin Li, Ruotong Li, Xinyu Hu, Jiani Liu, Guirong Liu, Lipeng Gao, Yongjiu Zhang, Houyin Wang, Baoqing Zhu

  4. Title: Monitoring Volatile Changes in Infant Formula During Long-Term Storage at Room Temperature
    Journal: Current Research in Food Science
    Year: 2023
    DOI: 10.1016/j.crfs.2023.100645
    Authors: Yilin Li, Houyin Wang, Ruotong Li, Guirong Liu, Kui Zhong, Lipeng Gao, Baoqing Zhu, Anwen Jin, Bolin Shi, Lei Zhao et al.

  5. Title: Oral Processing Preference Affects Flavor Perception in Dark Chocolate with Added Ingredients
    Journal: Journal of Food Science
    Year: 2021
    DOI: 10.1111/1750-3841.15557
    Authors: Yilin Li, Bryony James

Mawande Mayibenye | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mawande Mayibenye | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Gynaecologist at Walter Sisulu University, South Africa

Dr. M. Mayibenye is a dedicated Obstetrics and Gynaecology specialist at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital (NMAH), South Africa. With a strong academic foundation, a proven record of research in maternal health, and a commitment to advancing clinical practice, Dr. Mayibenye stands out as an emerging leader in the field. She has presented her work at prominent national conferences, including SASUOG and SAATOG, contributing to critical discussions on obstetric care. Her research focuses on improving surgical outcomes for repeat cesarean sections, with practical applications that enhance patient care. Dr. Mayibenye is also actively involved in professional organizations like HPCSA, SAMA, and ISUOG, further enriching her academic and clinical journey.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Mayibenye’s academic achievements include completing her MBChB in 2015 and MMED in 2022, both from Walter Sisulu University (WSU). She also attained the Fellowship of the College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (FCOG(SA)) from the Colleges of Medicine of South Africa in 2022. These qualifications reflect her rigorous training and expertise in the field. Her journey began with matriculation from Dimanda Secondary School in 2009. Dr. Mayibenye’s educational background has equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary for excellence in both clinical practice and research, positioning her as a promising expert in women’s health.

Professional Experience

Dr. Mayibenye has gained substantial clinical experience since joining NMAH as a community service doctor in 2018. She began her registrar program in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in 2019, completing it within the stipulated timeframe in 2022. Since then, she has been working as a specialist at NMAH, contributing to the department through her clinical expertise and dedication to maternal care. Her professional experience also includes completing her internship at NMAH in 2017 and community service in 2018. Through her roles, Dr. Mayibenye has demonstrated exceptional commitment to improving women’s health outcomes, combining her clinical skills with research insights to deliver impactful results.

Research Interests

Dr. Mayibenye’s research interests focus on improving outcomes in obstetric surgeries, particularly in predicting complications during repeat cesarean sections. Her MMED research explored pre-operative prediction of severe intraperitoneal adhesions using clinical signs and sliding sign, addressing a critical need for safer surgical planning. This area of interest reflects her dedication to maternal health and patient safety, with a specific focus on evidence-based approaches to minimize surgical risks. Dr. Mayibenye is also passionate about advancing diagnostic methods and contributing to the broader understanding of obstetric care challenges in resource-constrained settings.

Research Skills

Dr. Mayibenye possesses advanced research skills honed through her academic and clinical work. She is proficient in designing and conducting clinical studies, data analysis, and translating findings into practical applications. Her expertise includes presenting complex research findings at national conferences such as SASUOG and SAATOG, where she has effectively communicated her work to peers and experts. Dr. Mayibenye is skilled in systematic literature reviews, clinical data interpretation, and the use of diagnostic tools for surgical prediction. These skills underscore her ability to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice, driving improvements in patient care.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Mayibenye’s academic and professional journey reflects numerous milestones of achievement. Notable accomplishments include her completion of the MMED program and earning the prestigious FCOG(SA) designation from CMSA in 2022. Her selection to present research at leading conferences such as SASUOG, SAATOG, and the 41st Conference on Priorities in Perinatal Care in Southern Africa highlights her recognition as a contributor to critical discussions in obstetrics. Dr. Mayibenye’s continuous involvement in professional organizations like SAMA and ISUOG further emphasizes her dedication to advancing her field through collaboration and knowledge dissemination.

Conclusion

Dr. M. Mayibenye exhibits significant potential as a researcher in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, backed by strong clinical expertise, research on critical topics, and active engagement in professional forums. To excel in competitions for the Best Researcher Award, additional publications in high-impact journals, diversification of research focus, and increased international exposure could strengthen their candidacy. Overall, Dr. Mayibenye is a suitable candidate with promising contributions and growth potential in the field.