Dr Sabine Brandt | melanoma | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Sabine Brandt | melanoma | Best Researcher Award

University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna | Austria

Dr. Sabine Brandt is a leading expert in veterinary virology and oncology whose research integrates molecular virology, immunology, and comparative cancer biology to advance the understanding and treatment of virus-associated tumors. She has established influential models of papillomavirus infection, elucidated key molecular mechanisms in equine and feline cancers, and contributed to the development of innovative therapeutic platforms, including oncolytic viruses, cancer vaccines, and nucleic acid–based diagnostics. Her extensive body of peer-reviewed work, supported by major competitive funding and industry collaborations, has driven significant progress in equine melanoma research, viral tumorigenesis, and veterinary cancer theranostics. In addition to her scientific achievements, she plays an active role in academic leadership as a supervisor of graduate researchers, coordinator of veterinary scientific education, and reviewer for prominent journals and funding agencies, reinforcing her influence across virology, oncology, and translational veterinary medicine. Her research continues to bridge fundamental viral oncology with practical clinical application, improving diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in animal health. Through her leadership and innovation, she has helped define modern approaches to equine cancer biology and virus-driven disease management. Her contributions remain central to advancing comparative oncology, fostering new insights that benefit both veterinary and biomedical sciences.

Profile: Orcid

Publications

Alsaaod, M., Weber, J., Jensen, T., Brandt, S., Gurtner, C., Devaux, D., Studer, E., & Steiner, A. (2022). “Non-healing” claw horn lesions in dairy cows: Clinical, histopathological and molecular biological characterization of four cases. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 9, 1041215.

Jindra, C., Kamjunke, A.-K., Jones, S., & Brandt, S. (2022). Screening for bovine papillomavirus type 13 (BPV13) in a European population of sarcoid-bearing equids. Equine Veterinary Journal, 54(4), 772–780.

Alsaaod, M., Jensen, T. K., Miglinci, L., Gurtner, C., Brandt, S., Plüss, J., Studer, E., & Steiner, A. (2022). Proof of an optimized salicylic acid paste-based treatment concept of ulcerative M2-stage digital dermatitis lesions in 21 dairy cows. PLOS ONE, 17(6), e0269521.

Haralambus, R., Florczyk, A., Sigl, E., Gültekin, S., Vogl, C., Brandt, S., Schnierer, M., Gamerith, C., & Jenner, F. (2022). Detection of synovial sepsis in horses using enzymes as biomarkers. Equine Veterinary Journal, 54(3), 544–553.

Altamura, G., Cuccaro, B., Eleni, C., Strohmayer, C., Brandt, S., & Borzacchiello, G. (2022). Investigation of multiple Felis catus papillomavirus types (-1/-2/-3/-4/-5/-6) DNAs in feline oral squamous cell carcinoma: A multicentric study. Journal of Veterinary Medical Science, 84(4), 530–537.

 

Dr. Mashooq Ali | Fisheries and Aquaculture | Best Researcher Award 

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Dr. Mashooq Ali | Fisheries And Aquaculture | Best Researcher Award

Pakistan Agricultural Research Council | Pakistan

Dr. Mashooq Ali is a fisheries and aquaculture researcher specializing in molecular biology, nutrigenomics, and climate-resilient aquatic systems, with a focus on how nutrition influences early development, physiology, and stress response in key aquaculture species. His work integrates gene expression analysis, multi-omics approaches, microbiome profiling, and computational ecological modeling to understand growth pathways, antioxidant regulation, and myogenesis, contributing to improved feed formulations and sustainable hatchery practices. Proficient in molecular techniques, bioinformatics, and statistical modeling, he has published impactful studies on nano-selenium–mediated stress reduction in trout, protein optimization in larval diets, and diet-driven regulation of GH–IGF and myogenic factors in carp. His research advances the development of climate-adaptive aquaculture systems, and he actively contributes to scientific review, collaborative research networks, and the broader progress of molecular aquaculture science. He is also engaged in nurturing future researchers through training, scientific communication, and participation in professional events. His work supports innovations in hatchery efficiency, nutrigenetic insights, and sustainable resource use. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, he continues to bridge molecular biology with applied aquaculture solutions, strengthening the scientific foundation for resilient aquatic food systems.

Profile: Orcid

Publications

Ali, M., Akram, A., Jan, F. A., Hussain, A., Khan, F. U., Ahmad, A., & Arshad, M. (2025). Alleviating stocking density stress in juvenile rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) through dietary nano-selenium: Effects on growth, antioxidant activity, and immune response. Journal of Trace Elements in Medicine and Biology.

Ali, M., Zuberi, A., Lodhi, F. A., et al. (2025). Optimization of inclusion level of protein in larval diet of Labeo rohita (Hamilton, 1822) during early ontogeny. Fish Physiology and Biochemistry, 51, 172.

Ali, M., Zuberi, A., Ahmad, M., Jan, F. A., Shahryar, H., Abbas, M., & Hussain, A. (2025). Biochemical composition of larval feed regulates early myogenesis and growth by inducing expression of GH–IGF, myogenic regulating factors, and myostatin in Labeo rohita. Canadian Journal of Zoology, 103, 1–13.

Ali, M., Zuberi, A., Ahmad, M., & Younus, N. (2023). Regulation of feed intake, digestive enzyme activity, and growth in response to live feed and prepared diet during early rearing of Labeo rohita. Canadian Journal of Zoology, 102(1).

 

Prof Susana Constantino Rosa Santos | Wound healing | Best Researcher Award 

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Prof Susana Constantino Rosa Santos | Wound healing | Best Researcher Award 

University of Lisbon Faculty of Medicine | Portugal

Susana Constantino Rosa Santos is a prominent biomedical scientist whose research integrates angiogenesis, vascular regeneration, radiobiology, and translational oncology. Her work has advanced understanding of how low-dose ionizing radiation modulates tissue microenvironments, reprograms metastatic niches, and influences cardiovascular and stromal cell responses. She has led multidisciplinary research efforts that uncover radiation-induced mechanisms driving angiogenesis, cardiac remodeling, and tumor progression, while also identifying molecular markers that predict therapy-related cardiac dysfunction. Her contributions span experimental models, imaging-based functional assessments, biomarker discovery, and cell-based regenerative strategies, establishing new therapeutic and diagnostic perspectives. Widely recognized for her scientific leadership, she contributes to international expert groups evaluating radiation effects and shaping evidence-based guidance for radiation health protection. Her publication record reflects influential findings in endothelial biology, metastatic signaling, fibroblast activation, and immune–stromal interactions. Through competitive research funding and active participation in European collaborative programs, she has advanced cross-disciplinary approaches linking fundamental mechanisms with clinical translation. Her work continues to drive innovation in radiation-responsive tissue repair, vascular therapeutics, and personalized strategies to mitigate radiotherapy-associated toxicity.

Profile: Orcid

Publications

Low-dose ionizing radiation in vivo unlocks the therapeutic potential of prevascularized dermal spheroids in chronic wounds. (2025). Materials Today Bio.

Subtherapeutic dose of ionizing radiation reprograms the pre-metastatic lung niche, accelerating its formation and promoting metastasis. (2025). International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

Cardiac MRI–based subclinical cardiac dysfunction during 2 years after breast cancer irradiation: The MEDIRAD EARLY-HEART study. (2025). Radiology: Cardiothoracic Imaging.

Growth differentiation factor 15 as a biomarker for risk stratification in the cardiothoracic surgery intensive care unit. (2024). Biomolecules.

Multifunctional nanovaccine sensitizes breast cancer to immune checkpoint therapy. (2024). Advanced Functional Materials.

Early impairment of paracrine and phenotypic features in resident cardiac mesenchymal stromal cells after thoracic radiotherapy. (2024). International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vahid Akmali | Animal phylogeny | Editorial Board Member| 

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vahid Akmali | Animal phylogeny | Editorial Board Member| 

Razi University | Iran

Vahid Akmali is an associate professor of zoology whose research focuses on morphological and molecular systematics, karyology, biogeography, and phylogeny of fauna in the Iranian Plateau, with particular emphasis on Chiroptera and subterranean animals. He has conducted extensive studies on cave-dwelling bats, exploring their taxonomy, geographic distribution, and functional roles in ecosystems. His work also addresses the conservation biology of endangered species, including Kaiser’s mountain newt and other threatened amphibians. Akmali integrates fieldwork, genetic analysis, and landscape genetics to understand species distribution and habitat connectivity. He has contributed to both scientific research and education through authoring and editing books in zoology. His studies employ molecular and morphological methodologies to elucidate evolutionary relationships. He has led multiple research projects on taxonomy, biogeography, and conservation strategies. His work informs habitat management and species protection initiatives. Akmali applies statistical and computational tools for phylogenetic and population analysis. His research emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches combining ecology, genetics, and systematics. He has advanced knowledge of the biodiversity of the Iranian Plateau. His contributions support evidence-based conservation policies. His studies provide insights into the evolution and adaptation of subterranean and bat species. Overall, his work bridges field biology and molecular systematics for effective biodiversity conservation. In addition, he has contributed to understanding the ecological impacts of human activities on sensitive habitats. His research provides guidance for developing national conservation programs and environmental policy. Akmali collaborates with international experts to integrate global perspectives in biodiversity studies. He has mentored numerous graduate students in field biology and molecular systematics. His work continues to influence both theoretical and applied aspects of zoology and conservation science.

Profile: Orcid

Publications

Rashidi Ilzoleh, R., & Akmali, V. (2025). Comparative impact of seven bran diets on the growth, development and survival rate of Tenebrio molitor Linnaeus 1758 (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae) larvae. Iranian Journal of Science.

Rashidi Ilzoleh, R., Raposo, A., & Akmali, V. (2025). Influence of dietary composition on the nutritional profile and feed conversion efficiency of Tenebrio molitor. PLOS One.

Esmaeili, M., Akmali, V., & Karami, P. (2025). Assisted colonization of the near-eastern fire salamander (Salamandra infraimmaculata) in Iran: Distribution modeling and landscape analysis. International Journal of Environmental Science and Technology.

Mamaghani-Shishvan, M., Esmaeili-Rineh, S., Akmali, V., & Fišer, C. (2024). A contribution to the knowledge of the genus Niphargus (Arthropoda: Crustacea: Amphipoda) in northwestern Iran. Zoologischer Anzeiger.

Saberi, F., Gharzi, A., Jazayeri, A., Akmali, V., & Chehri, K. (2024). An introduction to the comparison shape of some cranial structures in Boleophthalmus dussumieri and Periophthalmus waltoni (Teleostei: Oxudercidae) in the Persian Gulf: An exploratory analysis with micro-CT scanning. Frontiers in Biomedical Technologies.

Akmali, V. (2024). Two new species of stygobiotic amphipod Niphargus (Amphipoda: Niphargidae) and their phylogenetic relationship with other congeners from Iran.

 

Prof. Hedayat Hosseini | Metagenomics | Editorial Board Member 

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Prof. Hedayat Hosseini | Metagenomics | Editorial Board Member 

SMC Public Health Laboratory | United States 

Dr. Hedayat Hosseini, DVM, PhD, is a leading expert in food safety science whose work integrates molecular microbiology, biotechnology, and regulatory innovation to strengthen public health protection. Trained in veterinary medicine and food safety, he advanced his expertise through specialized fellowships in food defense, molecular food microbiology, and global food safety systems. His research spans pathogen detection, antimicrobial resistance monitoring, functional food design, and advanced food packaging technologies, with contributions that include next-generation sequencing applications, natural antimicrobial formulations, and nano-composite films for improved shelf life and quality control. A prolific innovator, he holds numerous patents related to functional foods, natural preservatives, and food packaging solutions. His scientific influence extends across academia, public health laboratories, and international organizations, where he has contributed to the development of food safety standards, risk assessment frameworks, and evidence-based guidelines. Widely recognized for research excellence, he has received multiple national and institutional awards and is ranked among the top one percent of global researchers in food science according to independent international assessments. Dr. Hosseini’s work continues to shape modern approaches to foodborne disease prevention, molecular diagnostics, sustainable food processing, and regulatory harmonization, establishing him as a prominent figure in advancing safe, resilient, and science-driven food systems worldwide.

Profile: Google Scholar

Publications

Mohammadi, M., & Hosseini, H. (2009). Sausage manufacture: Principles and practice. National Nutrition & Food Technology Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti Medical Science University Press.

Hosseini, H., et al. (2009). Principles of food and dietary supplements labeling. Food & Drug Research Center, Ministry of Health & Medical Education of Iran Press.

Hosseini, H., et al. (2009). Technical and hygienic principles and safety management system of edible oil production. Food & Drug Research Center, Ministry of Health & Medical Education of Iran Press.

Hosseini, H., et al. (2009). Technical and hygienic principles and safety management system of food with animal origin production. Food & Drug Research Center, Ministry of Health & Medical Education of Iran Press.

Hosseini, H., et al. (2009). Technical and hygienic principles and safety management system for processing and packaging of dried fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Food & Drug Research Center, Ministry of Health & Medical Education of Iran Press.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Halil İbrahim GÜLER | MD Simulations | Best Researcher Award 

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Halil İbrahim GÜLER | MD Simulations | Best Researcher Award 

Karadeniz Technical University | Turkey

Assoc. Prof. Halil İbrahim Güler is a distinguished molecular biologist and geneticist whose research unites enzymology, proteomics, bioinformatics, and microbial genetics. A graduate of Sivas Cumhuriyet University and Karadeniz Technical University (KTÜ), where he also earned his Ph.D., Güler’s early studies on Thermus plasmids laid the foundation for his focus on microbial adaptation and enzyme mechanisms. Currently serving as Associate Professor in KTÜ’s Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, he leads innovative research on microbial enzymes—particularly β-glucosidases—and designs biocatalysts for industrial and medical applications. Using structural modeling, molecular docking, and dynamics simulations, he explores enzyme-ligand interactions and develops compounds with antitumor, antidiabetic, and anti-Alzheimer potential. His prolific publications highlight contributions to biocatalyst design, protein stability, and natural product biosynthesis. As an educator and mentor, he teaches courses in Bioinformatics, Microbial Ecology, and Gene Manipulation, fostering data-driven and experimental proficiency among students. His administrative roles and participation in research committees reflect his dedication to institutional growth and scientific collaboration. Through his academic leadership and interdisciplinary research, Güler continues to advance molecular genetics and biotechnology in Turkey and beyond.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar 

Publications

Synthesis, characterization and antitumor assessments of sulfonamide-1,2,4-triazole compounds with EGFR inhibitory potential: DFT calculation, molecular docking, molecular dynamics, and MM/PBSA approaches. (2026). Journal of Molecular Structure.

Comparison of active site mutations at subsite +2 of Anoxybacillus ayderensis A9 β-glucosidase for hydrolysis of pNPG and polydatin. (2025). BMC Biotechnology.

New methyl/benzyl-1,2,4-triazole-3-one derivatives: Synthesis, characterization (IR, NMR), antidiabetic, anti-Alzheimer, and molecular docking study. (2025). Journal of Biochemical and Molecular Toxicology.

Fluorobenzylidene-1,2,4-triazol-3-one derivatives: Synthesis, characterization, antimicrobial activity, and molecular docking study. (2025). Russian Journal of Organic Chemistry.

Biochemical characterization of a novel, glucose-tolerant β-glucosidase from Jiangella ureilytica KC603, and determination of resveratrol production capacity from polydatin.

Prof. Yueping Ma | Plant Biology | Women Researcher Award 

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Prof. Yueping Ma | Plant Biology | Women Researcher Award

 Northeastern University | China

Dr. Yueping Ma is an Associate Professor and Master’s Supervisor at the Institute of Biotechnology, School of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, specializing in plant molecular systematics and evolutionary biology. Her research centers on the Asteraceae family, particularly Chrysanthemum, focusing on its systematics, genetic diversity, and evolutionary development. Integrating morphology, molecular biology, transcriptomics, genomics, and metabolomics, she explores the molecular mechanisms of inflorescence evolution and stress adaptation. Her studies have advanced understanding of floral architecture, pigment diversification, and environmental resilience in ornamental plants. As the lead investigator on multiple National Natural Science Foundation of China projects, Dr. Ma has contributed to Chrysanthemum domestication, genetic mapping, and molecular evolution. Her work has been published in respected journals, including Journal of Systematics and Evolution, Plants, and Scientia Horticulturae, influencing both theoretical and applied plant sciences. Recognized as a Distinguished Talent of Shenyang City, she has earned honors such as the “Three Educations” Advanced Individual Award and the “March 8th Red Banner Pacemaker” Award. Dr. Ma actively serves on the Council of the National Chrysanthemum Industry Innovation Alliance and is a member of key professional societies. In teaching, she leads courses like Genetic Engineering, Experimental Genetics, and Ecology, emphasizing research-driven learning. Deeply committed to mentorship, she cultivates innovation and academic growth among young scientists. Her interdisciplinary work bridges classical botany with modern genomics, promoting sustainable horticultural advancement. By combining molecular tools and evolutionary analysis, she drives global collaboration in biodiversity research. Through her leadership, creativity, and scientific excellence, Dr. Ma continues to shape the field of plant biotechnology and evolutionary genomics.

Profile: Orcid 

Publications

Zhang, K., Gu, R., Yang, Y., Yan, J., Ma, Y., & Shen, Y. (2025). Recent distribution changes of invasive Asteraceae species in China: A five-year analysis (2016–2020). Journal of Environmental Management, 376, 124445.

Wang, X., Meng, Y., Zhang, S., Wang, Z., Zhang, K., Gao, T., & Ma, Y. (2024). Characterization of bZIP transcription factors in transcriptome of Chrysanthemum mongolicum and roles of CmbZIP9 in drought stress resistance. Plants, 13(15), 2064.

Ma, Y., Meng, Y., & Lin, J. (2023). Comparative transcriptome analyses reveal different regulatory mechanisms in ecological adaptation between Chrysanthemum vestitum and Chrysanthemum mongolicum. Horticulturae, 9(8), 868.

Zhao, Y., Qu, D., & Ma, Y. (2022). Characterization of the chloroplast genome of Argyranthemum frutescens and a comparison with other species in Anthemideae. Genes, 13(10), 1720.

 

Ms. Jingfang Zhang | Systems Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Jingfang Zhang | Systems Biology | Best Researcher Award

Beijing University of Chinese Medicine | China

Dr. Jingfang Zhang, Associate Professor at the School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, is a distinguished researcher in molecular biology, cancer biology, and genome editing. Her work focuses on understanding cellular behavior and disease mechanisms through advanced genetic and pharmacological tools. With expertise in cancer biology and stem cell research, she integrates stem cell biology, pharmacology, and gene regulation. Dr. Zhang has pioneered drug-inducible and multimode CRISPR/Cas systems, including the HIT-Cas9 platform, enabling precise control of gene expression and genome editing. Her groundbreaking innovations have expanded the versatility and safety of genome-editing technologies for therapeutic applications. Her research, published in Nucleic Acids Research, Blood, and Molecular Therapy – Nucleic Acids, advances epigenetics and therapeutic applications. She has also provided key insights into hematologic malignancies and acute myeloid leukemia. Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China, she fosters interdisciplinary research and mentors young scientists. Dr. Zhang’s projects bridge molecular biology and translational medicine, opening new avenues for targeted therapies. Her innovations in genome editing and cellular reprogramming are shaping precision medicine, regenerative therapeutics, and the future of molecular life sciences.

Profile: Orcid 

Publications

Wang, Y., Hu, J., & Zhang, J. (2025). Evaluation of abnormal growth-related genes of hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells by combining CRISPR/Cas9 technology with cell counting. Journal of Visualized Experiments: JoVE, (219).

Zhang, J., Chen, L., Zhang, J., & Wang, Y. (2019). Drug inducible CRISPR/Cas systems. Computational and Structural Biotechnology Journal, 17, 1171–1177.

Zhao, C., Zhao, Y., Zhang, J., Lu, J., Chen, L., Zhang, Y., Ying, Y., Xu, J., Wei, S., & Wang, Y. (2018). HIT-Cas9: A CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing device under tight and effective drug control. Molecular Therapy – Nucleic Acids, 13, 208–219.

Lu, J., Zhao, C., Zhao, Y., Zhang, J., Zhang, Y., Chen, L., Han, Q., Ying, Y., Peng, S., Ai, R., et al. (2018). Multimode drug inducible CRISPR/Cas9 devices for transcriptional activation and genome editing. Nucleic Acids Research, 46(5), e25.

Zhang, J., Kong, G., Rajagopalan, A., Lu, L., Song, J., Hussaini, M., Zhang, X., Ranheim, E. A., Liu, Y., Wang, J., et al. (2016). p53-/- synergizes with enhanced NrasG12D signaling to transform megakaryocyte-erythroid progenitors in acute myeloid leukemia. Blood, 129(3), 358–370.

 

Dr. Jennifer Deger | Alzheimer’s Disease | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Jennifer Deger | Alzheimer's Disease | Young Scientist Award

Baylor College of Medicine | United States

Jennifer Deger is a medical scientist in training at Baylor College of Medicine, pursuing an MD-PhD with a primary research focus on uncovering the genetic and molecular mechanisms driving neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Her work integrates molecular biology, genetics, and neuroscience to better understand neuronal degeneration and identify therapeutic targets for neurological disorders. Under the mentorship of Hugo Bellen and Joshua Shulman, she investigates genetic risk factors and molecular pathways that contribute to brain aging and cognitive decline. With a strong foundation in neuroscience and writing from The University of Texas at Austin, she combines analytical precision with effective scientific communication. Her research experience spans model organism studies and translational approaches linking molecular findings to clinical relevance. Jennifer’s contributions have been recognized through numerous honors, including the BRASS Scholarship and the Sharon E. Plot Mentorship Award for outstanding scientific promise and leadership. Her creative and technical excellence was highlighted when her immunofluorescence images were featured on the BCM MSTP symposium abstract book cover. She has earned top presentation and poster awards at institutional and national symposia, demonstrating her clarity and impact as a communicator of science. Dedicated to mentorship and service, Jennifer plays an active role in fostering collaboration and inclusivity within the scientific community. Her leadership has been acknowledged through awards for community service and educational contributions. She continues to pursue research that bridges discovery and clinical practice, aiming to advance therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative disease. Through her interdisciplinary approach and commitment to scientific progress, she represents the next generation of physician-scientists transforming neuroscience and precision medicine.

Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publications

Deger, J. M., Hannan, S. B., Gu, M., Strohlein, C. E., Goodman, L. D., Pasupuleti, S., Shaik, Z., Ma, L., Li, Y., Li, J., et al. (2025). Revealing the nervous system requirements of Alzheimer disease risk genes in Drosophila. The American Journal of Human Genetics.

Deger, J. M., Hannan, S. B., Gu, M., Strohlein, C. E., Goodman, L. D., Pasupuleti, S., Shaik, Z., Ma, L., Li, Y., Li, J., et al. (2025, July 30). Revealing the nervous system requirements of Alzheimer’s disease risk genes in Drosophila.

Hill, E. J., Robak, L. A., Al-Ouran, R., Deger, J., Fong, J. C., Vandeventer, P. J., Schulman, E., Rao, S., Saade, H., Savitt, J. M., et al. (2022). Genome sequencing in the Parkinson disease clinic. Neurology Genetics.

Deger, J., Goethe, E. A., LoPresti, M. A., & Lam, S. (2021). Intraventricular hemorrhage in premature infants: A historical review. World Neurosurgery.

Deger, J. (2018). A druggable genome screen identifies modifiers of alpha-synuclein levels via a tiered cross-species validation approach. Journal of Neuroscience.

Deger, J. (2015). The interrelationship of proteasome impairment and oligomeric intermediates in neurodegeneration. Undergraduate Research Symposium, University of Texas at Austin.

Dr. Karolina Stępień | Extracellular Matrix | Best Researcher Award 

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Dr. Karolina Stępień | Extracellular Matrix | Best Researcher Award 

Medical University of Silesia | Poland

Dr. Karolina Stępień is a molecular biologist and medical scientist specializing in the extracellular matrix (ECM) and its role in connective tissue and vascular diseases, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Her research explores the molecular architecture and remodeling of the ECM, focusing on collagens, elastin, metalloproteinases, and thrombospondins to understand vascular wall degeneration and identify biomarkers for prognosis and therapy. Beyond vascular pathology, she has contributed to studies on osteogenesis imperfecta and the potential of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) in gene therapy and regeneration, as well as on epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in pediatric craniopharyngioma as a predictor of tumor recurrence. Her work, published in leading journals such as International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Biomolecules, and Journal of Applied Genetics, advances knowledge of ECM-driven disease mechanisms and molecular medicine. As an educator at the Medical University of Silesia, she teaches molecular biology and genetics, integrating research and clinical application. Leading the “BIOMOLEK” Scientific Club, she mentors young researchers in ECM biology and molecular diagnostics. She actively participates in international scientific collaborations and conferences, strengthening the global exchange of knowledge in vascular and molecular pathology. Through her interdisciplinary research, teaching, and mentorship, Dr. Stępień continues to bridge fundamental molecular science with translational therapeutic innovation, shaping the future of biomedical research and education.