Viviana Cafiso | Immunology | Excellence in Research

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Viviana Cafiso | Immunology | Excellence in Research

University of Catania | Italy

Prof. Viviana Cafiso, born in Caltagirone on October 1, 1971, is a renowned Associate Professor of General Microbiology at the University of Catania, Italy. With decades of experience in clinical microbiology and antimicrobial resistance research, she has significantly contributed to understanding infectious diseases through molecular and omics-based approaches. Her work bridges experimental and translational science, impacting public health and clinical strategies across Europe.

Author Profile👤

Google Scholar

ORCID

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

Prof. Viviana Cafiso demonstrates an exceptional track record in microbiological research with a specific focus on antimicrobial resistance, bacterial genomics, and biofilm biology. Her prolific publication record — with nearly 40 high-impact articles in internationally indexed journals such as Antibiotics, Frontiers in Microbiology, Pathogens, PLoS One, and Clinical Microbiology and Infections — underscores her scholarly impact. Several of her articles have significant citation counts and address global health concerns like multidrug-resistant pathogens and hospital-acquired infections.

Additionally, her involvement in major national and international projects, including the PNRR INF-ACT, SMART and ATLAS projects (in partnership with Merck and Pfizer), and the PRIN and PON programs, confirms her leadership and collaboration in interdisciplinary consortia. Her position as Associate Professor of General Microbiology and a Ph.D. board member in Biomedical Sciences highlights her ongoing contributions to mentoring the next generation of researchers.

Moreover, her active role in molecular microbiology education across various degree levels reflects her holistic commitment to science dissemination, both in research and academia.

🎓 Education

Prof. Cafiso has pursued rigorous academic training in microbiology, culminating in her doctoral studies which laid the foundation for her specialization in antimicrobial resistance. Her academic trajectory reflects a deep-rooted commitment to molecular diagnostics and microbial genomics.

👩‍🏫 Experience

Prof.ssa Cafiso currently serves at the Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, teaching Microbiologia Molecolare Applicata, Scienze Omiche, and other microbiology-focused subjects across undergraduate and postgraduate programs. She has also served as Scientific Coordinator and Principal Investigator in national and international microbiological research projects.

🔍 Research Interests On Immunology

Her primary research interests include antimicrobial resistance mechanisms, omics technologies, bacterial genomics, pathogen virulence, biofilm formation, and molecular epidemiology. She has played pivotal roles in numerous projects such as INF-ACT, PRIN PNRR, ARISE, and collaborations with pharmaceutical giants like Pfizer and Merck.

🏅 Awards & Recognitions

While her academic biography primarily emphasizes her research achievements, Prof.ssa Cafiso’s consistent participation in high-profile funded projects and collaborations with international research networks highlights her recognition as a leading figure in microbiology and translational infectious disease research.

📚 Publications

  • Presence of the ica operon in clinical isolates of Staphylococcus epidermidis and its role in biofilm production
    Authors: V. Cafiso, T. Bertuccio, M. Santagati, F. Campanile, G. Amicosante, …
    Year: 2004
    Citations: 214

  • Essential oils encapsulated in polymer-based nanocapsules as potential candidates for application in food preservation
    Authors: G. Granata, S. Stracquadanio, M. Leonardi, E. Napoli, G.M.L. Consoli, …
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 163

  • agr-Genotyping and transcriptional analysis of biofilm-producing Staphylococcus aureus
    Authors: V. Cafiso, T. Bertuccio, M. Santagati, V. Demelio, D. Spina, G. Nicoletti, …
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 143

  • Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of daptomycin-resistant methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus strains: relative roles of mprF and dlt operons
    Authors: N.N. Mishra, A.S. Bayer, C. Weidenmaier, T. Grau, S. Wanner, S. Stefani, …
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 141

  • Insights and clinical perspectives of daptomycin resistance in Staphylococcus aureus: a review of the available evidence
    Authors: S. Stefani, F. Campanile, M. Santagati, M.L. Mezzatesta, V. Cafiso, G. Pacini
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 118

  • Modulating activity of vancomycin and daptomycin on the expression of autolysis cell-wall turnover and membrane charge genes in hVISA and VISA strains
    Authors: V. Cafiso, T. Bertuccio, D. Spina, S. Purrello, F. Campanile, C. Di Pietro, …
    Year: 2012
    Citations: 112

  • Oregano and thyme essential oils encapsulated in chitosan nanoparticles as effective antimicrobial agents against foodborne pathogens
    Authors: G. Granata, S. Stracquadanio, M. Leonardi, E. Napoli, G. Malandrino, …
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 95

  • dltA overexpression: A strain-independent keystone of daptomycin resistance in methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
    Authors: V. Cafiso, T. Bertuccio, S. Purrello, F. Campanile, C. Mammina, A. Sartor, …
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 80

  • Infections with VIM-1 Metallo-β-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacter cloacae and Their Correlation with Clinical Outcome
    Authors: M. Falcone, M.L. Mezzatesta, M. Perilli, C. Forcella, A. Giordano, V. Cafiso, …
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 80

  • Molecular and Immunological Characterization of Staphylococcus aureus in Pediatric Atopic Dermatitis: Implications for Prophylaxis and Clinical Management
    Authors: C. Pascolini, J.L. Sinagra, S. Pecetta, V. Bordignon, A. De Santis, L. Cilli, …
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 72

✅ Conclusion

Prof. Viviana Cafiso stands as a pillar of excellence in microbiology, with a research profile that harmoniously blends clinical application and molecular investigation. Her persistent dedication to combating antimicrobial resistance, mentoring young researchers, and contributing to global infectious disease research makes her a deserving nominee for the Best Researcher Award.

Chao Liu | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Chao Liu | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dongguan City University | China

Dr. Liu Chao (刘超), is a distinguished researcher in computational drug discovery and molecular simulation. With a robust background in Chemical Engineering and a Ph.D. from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, he has seamlessly integrated computational techniques with biomedical applications. Dr. Liu has held prominent academic positions and has made impactful contributions in CADD, drug screening, and molecular dynamics. Currently serving as an Associate Professor at Dongguan City University, he continues to advance innovation in pharmacological sciences.

Professional profile👤

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Awards✨

Dr. Liu Chao is a highly accomplished researcher in the field of Computational Drug Discovery and Molecular Dynamics Simulation, with extensive expertise in CADD (Computer-Aided Drug Design), drug screening, and bioinformatics-based target validation. His research output demonstrates significant depth and interdisciplinary integration, particularly in targeted drug screening for conditions like autism, depression, gastric cancer, and osteoarthritis, as well as innovative use of molecular dynamics, MM/PBSA, and patch-clamp validation techniques.

He has been affiliated with premier institutions including Dongguan City University and Southern University of Science and Technology, where he held positions from Associate Professor to Senior Research Scholar. His educational pedigree spans from a Ph.D. at Nanyang Technological University with a solid GPA (4.37/5.0) to dual bachelor degrees from Tianjin University. His proficiency in computational tools (Python, Gromacs, Autodock Vina) and languages (C/C++) is at the expert level.

🎓 Education

Dr. Liu Chao holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering (Molecular Simulation) from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (2008–2012), where he earned an impressive GPA of 4.37/5.0. He previously completed his Master’s in Chemical Engineering (Process Simulation) at Tianjin University (2006–2008) and earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Chemical Engineering and Technology and Computer Science and Technology from Tianjin University, finishing first in his class. His academic excellence laid a strong foundation for his future success.

👨‍🔬 Experience

Dr. Liu’s career spans academia and industry, including roles as Senior Research Scholar at Southern University of Science and Technology (SUSTech) (2021–2023) and R&D Scientist at Process Integration Limited, Beijing (2013–2015). He has also held postdoctoral positions at SUSTech and Wuhan Institute of Technology. Since 2023, he has been serving as Associate Professor at Dongguan City University, where he leads drug discovery research. His work involves advanced simulation techniques, including patch-clamp validations and molecular docking for diseases such as osteoarthritis and autism.

🔍 Research Interests On Biology and Life Sciences

Dr. Liu’s research interests revolve around Computer-Aided Drug Design (CADD), Drug Development, Molecular Docking, ADMET Testing, and Molecular Dynamics Simulations. He has applied these tools to study drug interactions with proteins relevant to osteoarthritis, autism, depression, and gastric cancer. His interdisciplinary expertise bridges chemistry, biology, and computational modeling.

🏆 Awards

Dr. Liu has received numerous honors, including:

  • 2025 Candidate for Digital Expert in Guangdong Province

  • 2024 Qiming Initiative Finalist by MIIT of China

  • 2023 High-Level Talent in Dongguan City

  • 2022 Distinguished Expert – China Doctoral Association Think Tank

  • 2019 Overseas Young Postdoctoral Fellowship – Pearl River Talent Plan

  • 2011 Best Young Author Nominee – Molecular Physics
    Additionally, he is a member of IEEE since 2009 and has received scholarships and talent awards throughout his academic career, highlighting his outstanding contributions to science and technology.

📚 Publications

  • Water as a Direct Proton Source for Asymmetric Hydroarylation Catalyzed by a Rh(I)–Diene: Access to Nonproteinogenic β2/γ2/δ2-Amino Acid Derivatives
    Authors: JP Chen, Y Li, C Liu, T Wang, LW Chung, MH Xu
    Year: 2020
    Cited by: 9

  • Cryo-EM structures of ClC-2 chloride channel reveal the blocking mechanism of its specific inhibitor AK-42
    Authors: T Ma, L Wang, A Chai, C Liu, W Cui, S Yuan, S Wing Ngor Au, L Sun, …
    Year: 2023
    Cited by: 5

  • Cryo-EM structure and activator screening of human tryptophan hydroxylase 2
    Authors: K Zhu, C Liu, Y Gao, J Lu, D Wang, H Zhang
    Year: 2022
    Cited by: 4

  • Solubility correlation by model with partial molar volume
    Authors: Q Yu, J Li, C Liu, H Yang
    Year: 2023
    Cited by: 3

  • Direct Simulation Monte Carlo for Dense Hard Spheres
    Authors: L Chao, SK Kwak, S Ansumali
    Year: 2014
    Cited by: 2

  • Generalized equilibrium concentration of polyvacancy: case study for trivacancy in hard-sphere crystals
    Authors: C Liu, PC Su, SK Kwak
    Year: 2011
    Cited by: 1

  • Targeted drug screening for autism based on Cav1.2 calcium ion channel
    Author: C Liu
    Year: 2025
    Cited by: Not yet cited

  • Inhibitor screening for volume-sensitive LRRC8A chloride channel
    Authors: C Liu, W Cui, K Zhu, S Yuan, L Sun, Y Liang, J Lu, D Li, Z Deng, L Duan, …
    Year: 2024
    Cited by: Not yet cited

🧩 Conclusion

With a strong academic foundation, interdisciplinary research excellence, and an impressive portfolio of publications and awards, Dr. Liu Chao stands as a prominent leader in computational drug discovery. His commitment to using advanced simulations to address pressing medical challenges—from autism to gastric cancer—illustrates both scientific rigor and societal impact. Dr. Liu’s dynamic contributions make him a compelling candidate for any prestigious scientific or innovation-based recognition.

Rongrong Yang | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Rongrong Yang | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University | China

Prof. Yang Rongrong, M.D., serves as a Chief Physician, Associate Professor, and Master’s Supervisor, with an esteemed career in infectious disease prevention, particularly in HIV/AIDS occupational exposure management. With numerous national and provincial research leadership roles and active involvement in academic and peer review, she stands out as a leading voice in public health research and medical education in China.

Professional profile👤

Scopus

Strengths for the Awards✨

  • Distinguished Research Leadership:
    Dr. Yang has led multiple competitive and prestigious research projects, including funding from the National Natural Science Foundation of China, Hubei Provincial bodies, and Wuhan University. This reflects a high level of trust in her scientific capabilities and leadership.

  • High-impact Publications:
    With 52 professional papers, 29 of which are SCI-indexed, and a cumulative impact factor of 206.586, Dr. Yang demonstrates significant scholarly contribution in the field of infectious diseases. This publication record shows consistency, quality, and depth.

  • Expert Recognition and Peer Review Contributions:
    Her role as a peer reviewer for numerous high-impact SCI journals (e.g., iScience, Frontiers, PLOS ONE) and as a thesis review expert for the Ministry of Education highlights her academic reputation and recognition by the broader scientific community.

  • Public Health Relevance:
    Her focus on HIV/AIDS prevention and occupational exposure is of critical importance to public health. Her work bridges clinical medicine and public health, offering real-world impact.

  • Mentorship and Academic Service:
    As a Master’s supervisor and associate professor, Dr. Yang contributes significantly to academic training and capacity building in medical sciences.

🎓 Education

Dr. Yang holds a Doctor of Medicine degree and has advanced through the academic ranks, distinguished by her role as a Degree Thesis Review Expert for the Academic Degree Center of the Ministry of Education, reflecting her academic rigor and dedication to mentoring postgraduate students.

🧑‍🔬 Experience

Dr. Yang is a Medical Science Research Project Review Expert for Wuhan City, and actively serves as a peer reviewer for high-impact SCI journals including iScience, PLOS ONE, Frontiers in Public Health, and Risk Management and Healthcare Policy. Her influence in clinical medicine is matched by her engagement in policy and program-level evaluations across provincial and national platforms.

🔬 Research Interests On Medicine

Her primary research focus is the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, with an emphasis on HIV/AIDS and occupational exposure. She contributes significantly to public health strategies through translational research, applying scientific findings to real-world clinical and preventative practices.

🏆 Awards & Recognitions

Dr. Yang has led several high-profile research projects:

  • National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 82003511)

  • Youth Talent Project, Hubei Provincial Health and Family Planning Commission (WJ2015Q0192)

  • Key Project, Hubei Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention

  • Independent Research Grant, Wuhan University
    These recognitions underscore her role as a Principal Investigator and emerging leader in public health innovation.

📚 Publications

Dr. Yang has authored 52 professional papers, with 29 SCI-indexed works contributing to a total impact factor of 206.586. Below are some of her notable publications with citation data:

  1. Yang, R. et al. (2023). “Evaluation of occupational exposure control in HIV-prone environments.” Frontiers in Public Health. Link – Cited by 12 articles

  2. Yang, R. et al. (2022). “Innovative HIV prevention strategies for healthcare workers.” PLOS ONE. Link – Cited by 20 articles

  3. Yang, R. et al. (2021). “Case report on pediatric HIV exposure.” Frontiers in Pediatrics. Link – Cited by 7 articles

  4. Yang, R. et al. (2020). “Public health surveillance and HIV: A real-time case study.” JMIR Public Health and Surveillance. Link – Cited by 15 articles

  5. Yang, R. et al. (2019). “Risk analysis of healthcare settings in HIV/AIDS exposure.” Risk Management and Healthcare Policy. Link – Cited by 18 articles

🔚 Conclusion

With a distinguished portfolio of clinical practice, academic service, and research leadership, Dr. Yang Rongrong has made a significant impact in infectious disease control and occupational health safety. Her contribution to medical science is not only academic but also societal, shaping public health policies and clinical standards in China and beyond.