Dan Zhao | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Dan Zhao | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Postdoc Fellow | Harvard medical school | United States

Dan Zhao, Ph.D., is a distinguished researcher in biochemistry and molecular biology, currently a Postdoctoral Fellow at Harvard University. With a strong background in protein quality control, ER-associated degradation (ERAD), and autophagy, Dr. Zhao has made significant contributions to understanding cellular homeostasis mechanisms. His research integrates cutting-edge techniques in cell biology, biochemistry, and structural analysis.

Profile👤

ORCID

Strengths for the Awards✨

Outstanding Research Impact: Dan Zhao has made significant contributions to biochemistry and molecular biology, particularly in ER-associated degradation (ERAD) and autophagy. His research has been published in high-impact journals such as Nature Structural & Molecular Biology, Molecular Cell, and Autophagy.

Strong Academic and Research Background: His journey from Peking University to Harvard University, along with his research at prestigious institutions such as the National Institute of Biological Sciences (NIBS) and Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI), showcases his academic excellence.

Breakthrough Discoveries: His identification of Epr1 as the first soluble ER-phagy receptor and his work in ERAD have advanced fundamental knowledge in cell biology, making him a leader in his field.

Recognized Achievements: Multiple awards and honors, including “Outstanding Researcher” at NIBS and a poster award at an International Symposium on Autophagy, highlight his scientific contributions.

Consistent Conference Presentations: Presenting at prestigious international conferences (e.g., Gordon Research Conference, ASCB | EMBO Meeting) underscores his active engagement in the research community.

🎓 Education

  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (2011 – 2017)
    Peking University & National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China
  • B.A. in Biological Sciences (2007 – 2011)
    Sichuan University, Chengdu, China

🧪 Experience

  • Postdoctoral Fellow (2021 – Present)
    Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard University

    • Investigated how the Mnl1/Htm1-Pdi1 complex recognizes misfolded proteins and initiates ERAD.
    • Identified Pdi1 as the key reductase in ERAD.
    • Developed a novel assay for detecting mannosidase activity.
  • Research Associate (2017 – 2021)
    National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing, China

    • Discovered Epr1, the first soluble ER-phagy receptor.
    • Explored the molecular mechanisms of Epr1 in ER-phagy.
    • Characterized a novel protein, SPBC1685.04, in macroautophagy.
  • Ph.D. Candidate (2012 – 2017)
    Peking University-Tsinghua University-National Institute of Biological Sciences Joint Program

    • Studied PX-BAR family proteins and their role in organelle autophagy.
    • Investigated XRCC4 homologs in fission yeast.
  • Early Research Roles (2010 – 2012)

    • Conducted metagenomic sequencing of Cordyceps Sinensis.
    • Performed single-cell transcriptome sequencing.
    • Researched amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing.

🔬 Research Interests On Biology

  • Protein quality control and degradation
  • ER-associated degradation (ERAD)
  • Autophagy and ER-phagy mechanisms
  • Structural and functional analysis of protein complexes

🏆 Awards & Honors

  • 2017 – Excellent Graduate, Peking University
  • 2015 – Outstanding Researcher, National Institute of Biological Sciences
  • 2015 – Poster Award, International Symposium on Autophagy
  • 2014 – Best Oral Talk, Chinese Fungi Symposium
  • 2013 – Merit Student, Peking University
  • 2011 – Excellent Graduate, Sichuan University

📄 Publications

  • Initiation of ERAD by the bifunctional complex of Mnl1 mannosidase and protein disulfide isomerase

    • Authors: Dan Zhao; Xudong Wu; Tom A. Rapoport
    • Year: 2024
  • Visual detection of binary, ternary, and quaternary protein interactions in fission yeast using a Pil1 co-tethering assay

    • Authors: Zhong-Qiu Yu; Xiao-Man Liu; Dan Zhao; Dan-Dan Xu; Li-Lin Du
    • Year: 2021
  • Visual detection of binary, ternary, and quaternary protein-protein interactions in fission yeast by Pil1 co-tethering assay

    • Authors: Zhong-Qiu Yu; Xiao-Man Liu; Dan Zhao; Dan-Dan Xu; Li-Lin Du
    • Year: 2021
  • Atg38-Atg8 interaction in fission yeast establishes a positive feedback loop to promote autophagy

    • Authors: Zhong-Qiu Yu; Ling-Ling Sun; Zhao-Di Jiang; Xiao-Man Liu; Dan Zhao; Hai-Tao Wang; Wan-Zhong He; Meng-Qiu Dong; Li-Lin Du
    • Year: 2020
  • Epr1, a UPR-upregulated soluble autophagy receptor for reticulophagy

    • Authors: Dan Zhao; Li-Lin Du
    • Year: 2020
  • A UPR-Induced Soluble ER-Phagy Receptor Acts with VAPs to Confer ER Stress Resistance

    • Authors: Dan Zhao
    • Year: 2020
  • Atg20 and Atg24 family proteins promote organelle autophagy in fission yeast

    • Authors: Dan Zhao
    • Year: 2016
  • Genome-wide Screens for Sensitivity to Ionizing Radiation Identify the Fission Yeast Nonhomologous End Joining Factor Xrc4

    • Authors: Dan Zhao
    • Year: 2014

🔍 Conclusion

Dr. Dan Zhao’s research has significantly advanced the understanding of protein degradation and autophagy. His discoveries, including the role of ER-phagy receptors and ERAD pathways, contribute to fundamental biological processes with implications for diseases like neurodegeneration. As a leading scientist in the field, his work continues to shape our understanding of cellular homeostasis.

Xiao Li | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Xiao Li | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Northwest A&F University | China

 Xiao Li is an Associate Professor at the College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Northwest A & F University. His research focuses on the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that regulate skeletal muscle and adipose tissue development, with significant implications for the livestock industry. His studies explore the roles of noncoding RNAs, epigenetic pathways, and the interactions between skeletal myofibers and intramuscular adipocytes to enhance pig growth and pork quality.

Profile👤

ORCID

Strengths for the Awards🎗️

  • Outstanding Research Contributions – Xiao Li has a strong research focus on skeletal muscle and adipose tissue development, with particular interest in epigenetic and genetic mechanisms regulating myogenesis, adipogenesis, and lipogenesis. These areas have significant implications in both livestock industries and human health.

  • High-Impact Publications – Xiao Li has 19+ publications in renowned journals like the American Journal of Physiology-Cell Physiology, Journal of Biological Chemistry, Animal Biotechnology, and Acta Biochimica et Biophysica Sinica. These papers demonstrate substantial contributions to muscle biology, adipogenesis, and epigenetic regulation.

  • Interdisciplinary Research Impact – Xiao Li’s work bridges animal science, genetics, and nutrition, contributing to both fundamental research and practical applications in improving pig growth and meat quality.

  • International Collaborations & Experience – Xiao Li has collaborated with leading global institutions, including Virginia Tech, Cornell University, and Washington State University, showcasing a strong international research network.

Education 🎓

  • Ph.D. (2005-2011) – Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology & Biochemistry, Nanjing Agricultural University
  • Joint Ph.D. (2009-2010) – Laboratory of Muscle Biology, Virginia Tech
  • Visiting Scholar (2010-2011) – Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University

Experience 🎓🌐

  • Lecturer (2012-2018) – College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Northwest A & F University
  • Visiting Scholar (2017-2018) – Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University
  • Associate Professor (2018-present) – College of Animal Sciences and Technology, Northwest A & F University

Research Interests On Biological Sciences 🌿

  • The role and mechanisms of noncoding RNAs in myogenesis, adipogenesis, and lipogenesis
  • Epigenetic pathways mediating maternal/paternal programming in skeletal muscle and adipose tissue development
  • The cross-talk between skeletal myofibers and intramuscular adipocytes
  • Nutritional strategies to enhance pig growth and improve pork quality

Awards 🏆

Xiao Li has been recognized for his contributions to the field of animal physiology and genetics through various academic and research awards. His work has received funding and accolades from prestigious institutions supporting advancements in livestock research.

Publications 📚

  1. Screening of lncRNA profiles during intramuscular adipogenic differentiation in longissimus dorsi and semitendinosus muscles in pigs

    • Authors: Yanru Yue, Zihao Ge, Zhicheng Guo, Yuhe Wang, Gongshe Yang, Shiduo Sun, Xiao Li
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2023.2176319
  2. Effects of maternal supplementation of fish oil during late gestation and lactation on growth performance, fecal microbiota structure and post-weaning diarrhoea of offspring piglets

    • Authors: Peiyuan Han, Zhaohui Du, Xiaowei Liu, Junyi You, Xin’e Shi, Shiduo Sun, Gongshe Yang, Xiao Li
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.1017/S0007114522003981
  3. Rosiglitazone-induced PPARγ activation promotes intramuscular adipocyte adipogenesis of pig

    • Authors: Zhaolu Wang, Youlei Li, Lingling Wu, Yuan Guo, Gongshe Yang, Xiao Li, Xin’e Shi
    • Publication Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2023.2206872
  4. Effect of fermented corn–soybean meal on carcass and meat quality of grower‐finisher pigs

    • Authors: Junfeng Lu, Qichun Han, Shaoying Wang, Zhaolu Wang, Xiao Li, Jianhong Hu, Gongshe Yang, Lei Wang, Xin’e Shi
    • Publication Year: 2021
    • DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13444
  5. MiR-370 enhances cell cycle and represses lipid accumulation in porcine adipocytes

  6. Triptolide enhances lipolysis of adipocytes by enhancing ATGL transcription via upregulation of p53

    • Authors: Xiaoyu Wang, Meixue Xu, Ying Peng, Qimuge Naren, Yanting Xu, Xin Wang, Gongshe Yang, Xin’E Shi, Xiao Li
    • Publication Year: 2020
    • DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6779
  7. Elevated miR-10a-5p facilitates cell cycle and restrains adipogenic differentiation via targeting Map2k6 and Fasn, respectively

    • Authors: Xiaoyu Wang, Huifang Zhang, Meixue Xu, Xin’E Shi, Gongshe Yang, Shiduo Sun, Xiao Li
    • Publication Year: 2020
    • DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmaa111
  8. Morus nigra L. leaves improve the meat quality in finishing pigs

    • Authors: Lujie Fan, Ying Peng, Dan Wu, Jianhong Hu, Xin’E Shi, Gongshe Yang, Xiao Li
    • Publication Year: 2020
    • DOI: 10.1111/jpn.13439
  9. Screening of lncRNA Profiles During Intramuscular Adipogenic Differentiation in Longissimus Dorsi and Semitendinosus Muscles in Pigs

    • Authors: Xiaoyu Wang, Ying Peng, Meixue Xu, Xiaochang Chen, Gongshe Yang, Xin’e Shi, Xiao Li
    • Publication Year: 2020
    • DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-55654/v1
  10. The long noncoding RNA MyHC IIA/X-AS contributes to skeletal muscle myogenesis and maintains the fast fiber phenotype

  • Authors: Mingle Dou, Ying Yao, Lu Ma, Xiaoyu Wang, Xin’e Shi, Gongshe Yang, Xiao Li
  • Publication Year: 2020
  • DOI: 10.1074/jbc.RA119.010498

Conclusion 🔍

Xiao Li’s research has significantly contributed to understanding the molecular and genetic mechanisms regulating muscle and fat development in livestock. His work enhances knowledge in animal science and provides practical applications for improving meat quality and agricultural productivity. His continued efforts in noncoding RNA, epigenetics, and nutritional strategies will help advance the field and benefit both academia and the livestock industry.

loannis Mitsopoulos | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Mr. loannis Mitsopoulos | Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

PhD Student | University Of Thessaly | Greece

Ioannis Mitsopoulos, a researcher and Ph.D. candidate, is dedicated to advancing sustainable aquaculture. His work in fish and plant nutrition, focused on aquaponic systems, emphasizes a multitrophic approach to environmental balance. Ioannis has a diverse background that combines hands-on experience, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovative research contributions in the field of agriculture and aquaculture.

Profile

Orcid

Strenghts for the Awards

  • Educational Background and Specialized Knowledge: Mr. Mitsopoulos has a solid educational foundation with an Integrated Master’s Degree in Agriculture, Fisheries, and Aquatic Environment, and is actively working on a Ph.D. focusing on aquaponics, a sustainable and innovative field. This specialized knowledge, along with participation in a Master’s program in Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture, positions him as a subject-matter expert in sustainable aquaculture practices.
  • Research Experience: His experience includes active involvement in research projects like “FutureAqua” and projects focused on improving the nutritional value of forage legumes for Mediterranean aquaculture species. He also contributes to critical conservation and environmental sustainability initiatives, such as monitoring fish species’ conservation status. This breadth of applied research highlights his ability to work on diverse and impactful studies.
  • Publications and Conferences: Mr. Mitsopoulos has presented his findings at multiple high-profile conferences (e.g., AQUA2018, Aquaculture Europe 2019), showing his work is recognized at international levels. His peer-reviewed publications further demonstrate the rigor and relevance of his research, especially in journals like PeerJ and MDPI. This consistent dissemination of his work to the scientific community is a strong indicator of his commitment to advancing his field.
  • Technical Skills and Certifications: Additional certifications such as the Tilapia, Shrimp, and Carp Welfare Indicators indicate his dedication to understanding animal welfare in aquaculture. This, along with technical workshops in aquaculture and environmental tolerance, shows his commitment to continuous professional development.
  • Extracurricular Involvement: His engagement in workshops, conferences, and technical seminars related to aquaculture and marine biology adds another dimension to his experience, showing a proactive approach to staying updated with current trends and methodologies in his field.

Education 🎓

Ioannis holds an Integrated Master’s Degree from the University of Thessaly, specializing in Agriculture, Fisheries, and Aquatic Environment. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. in fish physiology and plant nutrition within aquaponic systems at the same institution. In 2023, he joined the University of Patras for a Master’s program in Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture, furthering his commitment to eco-friendly and resilient aquaculture practices.

Experience 💼

Ioannis brings a wealth of experience from internships and research projects. His hands-on work includes monitoring drinking water quality, studying marine mammal biology, and participating in numerous research initiatives. These projects have ranged from improving nutritional value in Mediterranean species to evaluating fish conservation efforts, reflecting his dedication to advancing both scientific knowledge and practical applications in aquaculture.

Research Interests 🔬

Ioannis is passionate about sustainable aquaculture, focusing on fish and plant nutrition within aquaponic systems. His interests encompass the integration of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, aiming to foster resilience and reduce environmental impact. He is particularly interested in multitrophic systems that enhance resource efficiency by combining species in ways that mimic natural ecosystems.

Awards and Certifications 🏆

Ioannis has been recognized for his accomplishments, including certifications in advanced scuba diving and Taekwondo. His achievements also include professional training in fish welfare indicators for tilapia, shrimp, and carp. Through workshops and seminars, he has expanded his expertise in aquaculture innovations and environmental management.

Publications 📚

Ioannis has contributed to several prestigious conferences and journals. Here are selected publications:

  • Vlahos, N., Devetzoglou, K., Mitsopoulos, I., et al. (2018). The effect of fish meal replacement with insect meal on growth performance and survival rate of zebrafish (Danio rerio). AQUA2018, Montpellier, France.
  • Mitsopoulos, I., Tzokas E., Anastasopoulos, E., et al. (2023). Starvation and re-feeding of European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) and Baltic prawn (Palaemon adspersus) co-cultured with glasswort (Salicornia europaea) in a polyculture aquaponic system. HydroMedit 2023, Mytilene, Greece.
  • Mitsopoulos I, Kontou IG, Babouklis K, et al. (2024). Starvation and re-feeding of Gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) and European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) co-cultured with glasswort (Salicornia europaea) in a polyculture aquaponic system. PeerJ, 12

Conclusion 🌍

Through his innovative research and practical experience, Ioannis Mitsopoulos is contributing to the future of sustainable aquaculture. His work in multitrophic systems and aquaponics showcases his commitment to environmental stewardship and the pursuit of knowledge that benefits both ecosystems and human needs.