Lingmin Zhang | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Lingmin Zhang | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Research Excellence Award

Guangzhou Medical University | China

Prof. Lingmin Zhang is a leading researcher whose work integrates pharmaceutics, biomedical materials, and gene delivery, contributing significantly to advanced therapeutic strategies, particularly in lung cancer and inflammatory diseases. With 3,077 citations , 79 publications, and an h-index of 27, the researcher's scholarly impact is widely recognized. The work focuses on innovative nano-based and biomimetic delivery platforms, including nano-PROTACs, exosomes, microfluidic nanovesicles, and CRISPR/Cas9 carriers, offering transformative possibilities for targeted and precision medicine. Supported by major grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (projects 82572415, 82072047, 81700382), the researcher has developed cutting-edge strategies such as reprogramming tumor-associated macrophages, overcoming drug resistance in lung cancer, and reversing epigenetic silencing through nanoparticle-mediated gene delivery. Influential publications in high-impact journals—including Journal of Controlled Release, Drug Resistance Updates, ACS Nano, Angewandte Chemie, Advanced Science, and Molecular Cancer—highlight breakthroughs in nano-therapeutics, PROTAC technologies, artificial exosomes, and nucleic-acid delivery systems. Collectively, these contributions position the researcher at the forefront of translational nanomedicine, with ongoing work offering new directions for precision oncology, regenerative strategies, and next-generation drug delivery platforms.

Profile : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publication

He, M., Peng, Q., Yang, Q., Guan, X., Liu, Q., Chen, R., Zhou, D., Wang, L., Zhang, Y., Li, S., Su, J., & Zhang, L. (2026). In situ reprogramming of tumor associated macrophages with versatile nano-epigenetic inhibitor for lung cancer therapy. Journal of Controlled Release, 2026, 114497.

Zhang, L., He, L., Lin, Y., Wei, J., Tang, S., Lei, X., Lin, X., Zhou, D., Fu, L., Li, Y., He, J., Liang, L., & Yu, X. (2026). The novel strategy to overcome drug-resistant lung cancer: Dual targeting delivery of PROTAC to inhibit cancer-associated fibroblasts and lung cancer cells. Drug Resistance Updates, 84, 101316.

Chen, S., Chen, E., Su, J., Gong, Y., Tang, S., Qin, A., Shen, A., Tang, S., & Zhang, L. (2025). Magnetically navigated nano-PROTAC ameliorates acute lung injury. Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 23, 622.

Li, X., Qin, Z., Wang, S., Zhang, L., & Jiang, X. (2025). Microfluidics-assembled nanovesicles for nucleic acid delivery. Accounts of Chemical Research, 58, 570–582.

Liang, L., Peng, W., Qin, A., Zhang, J., Chen, R., Zhou, D., Zhang, X., Zhou, N., Yu, X., & Zhang, L. (2024). Intracellularly synthesized artificial exosome treats acute lung injury. ACS Nano, 18(32), 21009–21023.

Guan, X., Xu, X., Tao, Y., Deng, X., He, L., Lin, Z., Chang, J., Huang, J., Zhou, D., Yu, X., Wei, M., & Zhang, L. (2024). Dual targeting and bioresponsive nano-PROTAC induced precise and effective lung cancer therapy. Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 22, 692.

Zhang, L., Lin, Y., Li, S., Guan, X., & Jiang, X. (2023). In situ reprogramming of tumor-associated macrophages with internally and externally engineered exosomes. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 62(11), e202217089.

Liang, L., Cen, H., Huang, J., Qin, A., Xu, W., Wang, S., Chen, Z., Tan, L., Zhang, Q., Yu, X., Yang, X., & Zhang, L. (2022). The reversion of DNA methylation-induced miRNA silence via biomimetic nanoparticles-mediated gene delivery for efficient lung adenocarcinoma therapy. Molecular Cancer, 21(1), 186.

Zhang, H., Peng, R., Chen, S., Shen, A., Zhao, L., Tang, W., Wang, X., Li, Z., Zha, Z., Yi, M., & Zhang, L. (2022). Versatile nano-PROTAC-induced epigenetic reader degradation for efficient lung cancer therapy. Advanced Science, 9(29), 2202039.

Zhang, L., Wang, L., Xie, Y., Wang, P., Deng, S., Qin, A., Zhang, J., Yu, X., Zheng, W., & Jiang, X. (2019). Triple-targeting delivery of CRISPR/Cas9 to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Angewandte Chemie International Edition, 58(36), 12404–12408.

Keon-Hyoung Song | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Keon-Hyoung Song | Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutical Science | Best Researcher Award

Soonchunhyang University | South Korea

Prof. Dr. Keon-Hyoung Song is a distinguished researcher whose work bridges pharmaceutical sciences, drug delivery systems, and pharmacokinetics. With 708 citations, 27 scholarly publications, and an h-index of 13, his research has significantly advanced the understanding of membrane permeation enhancers, drug formulation, and solubilization strategies. His extensive portfolio includes high-impact studies on intestinal absorption mechanisms, cocrystal engineering, and pharmacokinetic optimization, published in reputed journals such as Pharmaceutics, European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, and Journal of Controlled Release. Prof. Song’s innovations extend beyond academia, with over 25 international patents registered across the U.S., Europe, and Korea, focusing on permeation-enhancing peptides, liposomal carriers, and pharmaceutical formulations. His pioneering patents, including those on mucous membrane permeation peptides (EP 3875103, 2025) and sugar alcohol-based liposome compositions, underscore his role in translating laboratory discoveries into therapeutic applications. Licensed as both a Patent Attorney and a Pharmacist, he effectively integrates regulatory insight with scientific innovation. Prof. Song’s sustained contributions to quantitative drug analysis using LC-MS and formulation optimization have made him a leading figure in advancing next-generation drug delivery technologies and pharmaceutical development.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publications

Jeong, D.-H., Kim, J.-W., & Song, K.-H. (2025). Improved intestinal permeation of cyclosporin A by FCIGRL-modified tight junction modulator in rats. Pharmaceutics, 17(11), 1395.

Park, G., Galdamez, A., Song, K.-H., Le, M., Kim, K., & Lin, J. H. (2024). Ethnic variation and structure–function analysis of tauopathy-associated PERK alleles. Israel Journal of Chemistry, 64(12).

Song, K.-H. (2024). Effect of tight junction-modulating FCIGRL-modified peptides on the intestinal absorption of doxorubicin in rats. Pharmaceutics, 16(5), 650.

Jiang, F.-L., Jeong, D.-H., Eom, S.-H., Lee, H.-M., Cha, B.-J., Park, J.-S., Kwon, R.-K., Nam, J.-Y., Yu, H.-S., Heo, S.-H., Kim, C.-H., & Song, K.-H. (2024). Effects of enteric-coated formulation of sodium bicarbonate on bicarbonate absorption and gastrointestinal discomfort. Nutrients, 16(5), 744.

Koo, N. R., Yoon, S., Song, K.-H., Baek, M. J., Jeon, S., & Im, J. (2024). Tumor-homing peptide iRGD-conjugate enhances tumor accumulation of camptothecin for colon cancer therapy. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 265, 116050.

Park, G., Xu, K., Chea, L., Kim, K., Safarta, L., Song, K.-H., Wu, J., Park, S., Min, H., Hiramatsu, N., Han, J., & Lin, J. H. (2023). Neurodegeneration risk factor EIF2AK3 (PERK) influences tau protein aggregation. The Journal of Biological Chemistry, 299(2), 102821.

Eom, Y. S., Jeong, D., Ryu, A.-R., Song, K.-H., Im, D. S., & Lee, M.-Y. (2022). Daphne odora exerts depigmenting effects via inhibiting CREB/MITF and activating AKT/ERK-signaling pathways. Current Issues in Molecular Biology, 44(8), 3312–3323.

Kim, H., Song, K.-H., Ambegaonkar, J. P., Chung, S., Jeon, K., Jiang, F. L., Eom, J. J., & Kim, C.-H. (2022). Two-megahertz impedance index prediction equation for appendicular lean mass in Korean older people. BMC Geriatrics, 22(1), 385.

Jiang, F., Tang, S., Eom, J.-J., Song, K.-H., Kim, H., Chung, S., & Kim, C.-H. (2022). Accuracy of estimated bioimpedance parameters with octapolar segmental bioimpedance analysis. Sensors, 22(7), 2681.

Yoon, Y. M., Lee, J. H., Song, K.-H., Noh, H., & Lee, S. H. (2020). Melatonin-stimulated exosomes enhance the regenerative potential of chronic kidney disease-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells via cellular prion proteins. Journal of Pineal Research, 68(3), e12632.

Lee, J. H., Yoon, Y. M., Song, K.-H., Noh, H., & Lee, S. H. (2020). Melatonin suppresses senescence-derived mitochondrial dysfunction in mesenchymal stem cells via the HSPA1L-mitophagy pathway. Aging Cell, 19(3), e13111.

Cha, S. J., Choi, H.-J., Kim, H.-J., Choi, E. J., Song, K.-H., Im, D. S., & Kim, K. (2020). Parkin expression reverses mitochondrial dysfunction in fused in sarcoma-induced amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Insect Molecular Biology, 29(1), 56–65.*

Behnam Mahdavi | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Behnam Mahdavi | Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Hakim Sabzevari University | Iran

Author Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Early Academic Pursuits 🌱

Dr. Behnam Mahdavi's academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Pure Chemistry (1991-1995) from Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran. His passion for organic chemistry led him to earn an M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry (2003-2006) from Ferdowsi University, Mashhad. Dr. Mahdavi later pursued a Ph.D. in Chemistry-Phytochemistry (2009-2012) from the National University of Malaysia (UKM), where he delved into the study of plant-based chemical compounds.

Professional Endeavors and Teaching Excellence 📚

Dr. Mahdavi has over two decades of professional experience in chemistry education and research. From 1997 to 2009, he served as a Chemistry Laboratory Master at Hakim Sabzevari University. Since 2012, he has been an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the same institution. His ability to merge theoretical knowledge with practical applications has made him a favorite among his students and peers.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Mahdavi's research spans a wide range of chemistry domains, with a particular focus on:

  • Cyclodextrin-Based Drug Delivery Systems: Pioneering studies on modified cyclodextrins for targeted and efficient drug delivery.
  • Green Chemistry: Emphasizing sustainable methods like green synthesis of carbon quantum dots and Gewald reactions in water.
  • Phytochemistry: Investigating the chemical composition, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties of plant extracts and essential oils.
  • Innovative Applications: Researching nanoencapsulation, chemical modifications, and optoelectronic properties of natural compounds.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Mahdavi is an accomplished author, having co-written books like Safety in the Chemical Laboratories and A Review of Experimental Organic Chemistry. He has published over 80 research papers in renowned journals such as RSC Advances, Journal of Molecular Structure, and Trends in Phytochemical Research. His work on cyclodextrins as drug delivery systems and sustainable chemistry approaches has earned him widespread recognition in both academia and industry.

Impact and Influence 🌟

Dr. Mahdavi’s innovative research has made significant contributions to medicinal chemistry, environmental chemistry, and phytochemistry. His studies on plant-based antioxidants and antimicrobial agents have potential applications in healthcare and agriculture. His teaching and mentorship have inspired a new generation of chemists to pursue impactful research.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌍

With a strong foundation in chemistry and an unwavering commitment to sustainable practices, Dr. Mahdavi continues to explore novel methods for drug delivery, green chemistry, and natural compound applications. His ongoing research projects promise to address critical challenges in health, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.

 

Publications


📘 Design, characterization, and in vitro evaluation of magnetic carboxymethylated β-cyclodextrin as a pH-sensitive carrier system for amantadine delivery: a novel approach for targeted drug delivery
 Authors: Mehrdad Hadadian, Reza Allahyari, Behnam Mahdavi, Esmail Rezaei-Seresht
 Journal: RSC Advances
 Year: 2025


📘 Ephedra intermedia Schrenk & C. A. Mey Methanol Extract: Nanoencapsulation by Mini-Emulsion Polymerization and its Release Trend under Simulated Conditions of the Human Body
 Authors: Behnam Mahdavi, Sanaz Ebrahimi, Gholam Ali Farzi, Behrooz Maleki, Majid Mohammadhosseini
 Journal: Chemistry and Biodiversity
 Year: 2024


📘 Exploring modified cyclodextrins for enhanced encapsulation and release of ethinyl estradiol: physicochemical characterization and kinetic modeling
 Authors: Mehrdad Hadadian, Behnam Mahdavi, Esmail Rezaei-Seresht
 Journal: Journal of Science: Advanced Materials and Devices
 Year: 2024


📘 Screening of the compositions of essential oils and volatiles of Perovskia abrotanoides Karel. along with antioxidant, antibacterial and cytotoxic impacts of its methanol extract
 Authors: Mohammad Reza Kianasab, Majid Mohammadhosseini, Mehdi Nekoei, Behnam Mahdavi, Tahmineh Baheri
 Journal: Natural Product Research
 Year: 2024


📘  Comparative study of β-cyclodextrin and carboxymethyl-β-cyclodextrin as effective drug delivery systems for oxymetholone: Design, preparation, characterization, phase solubility and in vitro drug release studies
 Authors: Mehrdad Hadadian, Reza Allahyari, Behnam Mahdavi, Majid Mohammadhosseini
 Journal: Journal of Science: Advanced Materials and Devices
 Year: 2024


📘 The effect of in-situ cellulosic matrix on the photophysical properties of white emissive CQDs
 Authors:Fereshteh Montazeri, Arman Ghasedi, Behnam Mahdavi, Ehsan Koushki
 Journal:Carbon Letters
 Year:2024


 

Jillian Perry | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr. Jillian Perry | Materials Science | Best Researcher Award

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill | United States

Author Profile

Google Scholar

🧠 Early Academic Pursuits

Assist. Prof. Dr. Jillian Perry's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, awarded Cum Laude from the University of Florida in 2004, with a minor in Chemistry. Building on her solid foundation, she pursued a PhD in Biomedical Engineering at the same university, where she conducted pioneering research on chitosan nanotube synthesis for drug delivery applications. Her dissertation, supervised by Dr. John D. Steward and Dr. Charles R. Martin, laid the groundwork for a career focused on innovative solutions in drug delivery and nanotechnology.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Currently an Assistant Professor at the University of North Carolina’s Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Dr. Perry also contributes to the Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery. Since joining UNC in 2010 as a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, she has been mentored by renowned researchers like Dr. Joseph M. DeSimone. Over the years, she progressed from a Research Associate Scientist to her current position, collaborating on high-impact research in pharmacoengineering and molecular pharmaceutics.

🧬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Perry’s research explores 3D-printed microneedles, transdermal drug delivery systems, and nanoparticle-based cancer immunotherapies. She has authored numerous impactful publications, contributing extensively to fields such as tumor targeting and transdermal vaccination techniques. Her work includes significant studies on hydrogel-based cancer treatments and PRINT nanoparticle technology for enhanced therapeutic delivery.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Perry has been honored with several awards, such as the 2020 Junior Faculty Development Award and the NanoDDS Poster Award in 2018. Her 3D-printed vaccine patch technology received global attention and won the Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas Award in 2022. She was also recognized for her academic excellence with prestigious scholarships like the University Scholars Scholarship and Bright Futures Scholarship during her undergraduate years.

🌍 Impact and Influence

With an H-index of 19 and over 2,130 citations, Dr. Perry’s research has influenced the scientific community's understanding of nanomedicine and drug delivery technologies. Her innovative approaches in microneedle design and 3D printing for vaccine delivery have potential applications beyond academia, transforming practical healthcare delivery methods and advancing public health initiatives worldwide.

📜 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a thought leader in nanotechnology and biopharmaceuticals, Dr. Perry is expected to continue making groundbreaking contributions to transdermal vaccine development and targeted cancer therapies. Her active role in patenting novel drug delivery systems and designing biocompatible materials solidifies her legacy as a researcher committed to pioneering health solutions. Future contributions will likely include further advancements in non-invasive drug delivery and enhanced treatment efficacy in challenging medical fields, paving the way for transformative healthcare solutions.

 

Publications


📄  Development of 3D printed microneedles of varied needle geometries and lengths, designed to improve dermal delivery of topically applied psoriasis treatments

Authors: Pünnel LC, Palmtag M, Lunter DJ, Perry JL
Journal: European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics
Year: 2024


📄  3D-printed Lattice Microneedle Array Patches for Tunable and Versatile Intradermal Delivery

Authors: Rajesh NU, Hwang J, Xu Y, Saccone MA, Hung A, Hernandez RAS, Coates IA, Driskill MM, Dulay MT, Jacobson GB, Tian S, Perry JL#, DeSimone JM
Journal: Advanced Materials
 Year: 2024


📄  Development of a biocompatible 3D hydrogel scaffold using CLIP for the delivery of cell therapy to treat recurrent glioblastoma

Authors: Kass L, Morrent T, Zhang Y, DeVane C, Logan J, Tessema A, Perry JL#, Hingtgen SD
 Journal: Bioengineering and Translational Medicine
Year: 2024


📄  3D-Printed Microarray Patches for Transdermal Applications

Authors: Rajesh NU, Coates I, Driskill MM, Dulay MT, Hsiao K, Ilyn D, Jacobson GB, Kwak JW, Lawrence M, Perry JL, Shea CO, Tian SM, DeSimone JM
 Journal: JACS Au
 Year: 2022


📄  Transdermal Vaccination via 3D Printed Microneedles Induces Potent Humoral and Cellular Immunity

Authors: Caudill CL, Perry JL, Illiadis K, Tessema AT, Lee BJ, Mecham BS, Tian S, DeSimone JM
Journal: PNAS
 Year: 2021