Judith Röske | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Women Research Award

Mrs. Judith Röske | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Women Research Award

University of Luebeck | Germany

Mrs. Judith Röske is a dedicated researcher with a strong focus on molecular virology, antiviral drug discovery, and protease-targeted therapeutic development, contributing to 13 scientific publications across high-impact journals. Her work explores the binding behavior of small-molecule inhibitors to viral 3C proteases, including SARS-CoV-2, EV-D68, EV-A71, and HAV, as well as host proteases such as cathepsins and calpain-1. With expertise in photometry, nanoDSF, MST, and SPR, she has optimized methods for determining key biochemical parameters such as IC₅₀, Tm, and Kᴅ, enabling the effective screening of lead compounds for broad-spectrum antivirals. Her research further investigates RNA-binding mechanisms in HAV 3C protease, shedding light on dual-targeting strategies that may advance anti-picornaviral drug development. She has contributed to influential studies on SARS-CoV-2 main protease inhibitors, including work on novel warhead chemistries, α-ketoamide derivatives, and diastereomeric optimization, reinforcing her impact in antiviral medicinal chemistry. Additionally, earlier contributions in transplant biology and liver preservation highlight her versatility in biochemical and molecular research. Through rigorous structural, kinetic, and biophysical analyses, her body of work adds valuable insight into protease inhibition and therapeutic innovation, supported by a growing citation record within the scientific community.

Profiles : Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Theodoropoulou, M. A., El Kilani, H., Mantzourani, C., Jochmans, D., Neyts, J., Zhang, K., Röske, J., Kokotou, M. G., Hilgenfeld, R., & Kokotos, G. (2025). Thiazolyl 4-carboxylate ketone as a new warhead for a highly potent SARS-CoV-2 main protease inhibitor. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 25(11), 118436.

Akula, R. K., El Kilani, H., Metzen, A., Röske, J., Zhang, K., Göhl, M., Arisetti, N., Marsh, G. P., Maple, H. J., Cooper, M. S., et al. (2025). Structure-based optimization of pyridone α-ketoamides as inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 main protease. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 68(1).

Cooper, M. S., Zhang, L., Ibrahim, M., Zhang, K., Sun, X., Röske, J., Göhl, M., Brönstrup, M., Cowell, J. K., Sauerhering, L., et al. (2022). Diastereomeric resolution yields highly potent inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 main protease. Journal of Medicinal Chemistry.

Bernard, V., Gebauer, N., Dinh, T., Stegemann, J., Feller, A. C., & Merz, H. (2014). Applicability of next-generation sequencing to decalcified formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia samples. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Pathology.

Le Minh, K., Berger, A., Eipel, C., Kuhla, A., Minor, T., Stegemann, J., & Vollmar, B. (2011). Uncoupling protein-2 deficient mice are not protected against warm ischemia/reperfusion injury of the liver. Journal of Surgical Research, 167.

Stegemann, J., Hirner, A., Rauen, U., & Minor, T. (2010). Use of a new modified HTK solution for machine preservation of marginal liver grafts. Journal of Surgical Research.

Koetting, M., Stegemann, J., & Minor, T. (2010). Dopamine as additive to cold preservation solution improves postischemic integrity of the liver. Transplant International, 23.

Minor, T., Stegemann, J., Hirner, A., & Koetting, M. (2009). Impaired autophagic clearance after cold preservation of fatty livers correlates with tissue necrosis upon reperfusion and is reversed by hypothermic reconditioning. Liver Transplantation.

Stegemann, J., & Minor, T. (2009). Energy charge restoration, mitochondrial protection and reversal of preservation-induced liver injury by hypothermic oxygenation prior to reperfusion. Cryobiology.

Stegemann, J., Hirner, A., Rauen, U., & Minor, T. (2009). Gaseous oxygen persufflation or oxygenated machine perfusion with Custodiol-N for long-term preservation of ischemic rat livers? Cryobiology.

Le Minh, K., Kuhla, A., Abshagen, K., Minor, T., Stegemann, J., Ibrahim, S., Eipel, C., & Vollmar, B. (2009). Uncoupling protein-2 deficiency provides protection in a murine model of endotoxemic acute liver failure. Critical Care Medicine.

Manekeller, S., Seinsche, A., Stegemann, J., & Hirner, A. (2008). Optimising post-conditioning time of marginal donor livers. Langenbeck's Archives of Surgery.

Manekeller, S., Schuppius, A., Stegemann, J., Hirner, A., & Minor, T. (2007). Role of perfusion medium, oxygen and rheology for endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced cell death after hypothermic machine preservation of the liver. Transplant International.

Hui Shen | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Hui Shen | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

China Pharmaceutical University | China

Author Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Hui Shen embarked on his scientific journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Bioengineering from Wuhan University of Science and Technology (2008–2012), laying a strong foundation in the life sciences. He then pursued a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the prestigious University of Science and Technology of China (2012–2017). His doctoral thesis focused on structural biology, specifically analyzing proteins in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Staphylococcus aureus, under the mentorship of Prof. Maikun Teng.

👨‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Prof. Shen has steadily ascended the academic ladder. After completing his Ph.D., he undertook postdoctoral research at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine (2018–2023). Working in Prof. Kathy Fange Liu's lab, he focused on RNA biology and molecular mechanisms in human cells. In 2023, he returned to China and assumed the role of Professor at China Pharmaceutical University in Nanjing, where he continues to contribute to cutting-edge research in the School of Life Science and Technology.

🧬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Shen's research centers on RNA biology, structural biochemistry, and epigenetic regulation. He has delved into RNA helicases, methyltransferases, and RNA-protein interactions, significantly expanding our understanding of sexually dimorphic RNA metabolism, ribosome assembly, and RNA modifications. His work has elucidated mechanisms of phase separation, methylation, and protein structure-function relationships, all of which are vital for both basic science and therapeutic development.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Shen’s scholarly output is remarkable. He has published over a dozen first-author papers in high-impact journals such as Nature Communications, Molecular Cell, Genes & Development, and Journal of Biological Chemistry. His co-authored works also feature in Science Advances, Nature Communications, and ACS Catalysis, underscoring his collaborative and interdisciplinary impact. His presence in top-tier international conferences, including the RNA Society Annual Meeting and the Global Congress of Chinese Biologists, reflects peer recognition of his contributions.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Prof. Shen’s work has influenced fields such as cancer biology, infectious disease research, and epigenetics. For instance, his studies on the DDX3X/DDX3Y helicases and DIMT1 methyltransferases provide novel insights into cell proliferation, translation regulation, and leukemia biology. His findings are not only academically significant but also open avenues for diagnostic and therapeutic strategies targeting RNA and protein modification pathways.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

As a rising star in molecular biology, Prof. Shen is well-positioned to leave a lasting legacy. With a strong publication track record, international training, and a leadership role in China, he is expected to mentor the next generation of scientists while continuing to pioneer research at the interface of structure and function in RNA biology. His work is likely to shape future innovations in biomedicine and pharmaceutical sciences, strengthening China’s global research footprint.

Publications


  • 📄 Specific catalytically impaired DDX3X mutants form sexually dimorphic hollow condensates
    Authors: Owens MC*, Shen H*, Yanas A, Mendoza-Figueroa MS, Lavorando E, Wei XY, Shweta H, Tang HY, Goldman YE, Liu KF
    Journal: Nature Communications
    Year: 2024


  • 📄 Identification of an RNA-binding region in 18S dimethyladenosine methyltransferase DIMT1 essential for proliferation of acute myeloid leukemia cells
    Authors: Gonskikh Y*, Stoute J*, Shen H*, Budinich K, Pingul B, Schultz K, Marmorstein R, Shi JW, Liu KF
    Journal: Genes & Development
    Year: 2023


  • 📄 Sexually dimorphic RNA helicases DDX3X and DDX3Y differentially regulate RNA metabolism through phase separation
    Authors: Shen H*, Yanas A*, Owens MC, Zhang C, Fritsch C, Fare CM, Copley KE, Shorter J, Goldman YE, Liu KF
    Journal: Molecular Cell
    Year: 2022


  • 📄 Human DIMT1 generates N2⁶,6A-dimethylation-containing small RNAs
    Authors: Shen H, Gonskikh Y, Stoute J, Liu KF
    Journal: Journal of Biological Chemistry
    Year: 2021


  • 📄 TET-mediated 5-methylcytosine oxidation in tRNA promotes translation
    Authors: Shen H*, Ontiveros RJ*, Owens MC, Liu MY, Ghanty U, Kohli RM, Liu KF
    Journal: Journal of Biological Chemistry
    Year: 2021


 

Yunlong Liu | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yunlong Liu | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Tiangong University | China

Author Profile

Orcid

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Yunlong Liu was born in August 1995 in Chengde, Hebei Province, China. His academic journey began with a strong foundation in the biological sciences, which led him to pursue a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at China Agricultural University from 2018 to 2023. During his doctoral studies, he delved into structural biology, focusing on unraveling the molecular mechanisms of transcriptional regulation mediated by nuclear receptors and other transcription factors. His exceptional research prowess and dedication earned him prestigious accolades, such as the National Ph.D. Scholarship and the Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award.

👨‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

Since August 2023, Dr. Liu has been serving as a Lecturer at the College of Life Sciences, Tiangong University. His transition from a promising Ph.D. scholar to a faculty member highlights his commitment to academia and scientific research. His role involves not only imparting knowledge to the next generation of scientists but also continuing his cutting-edge research in structural biology and transcriptional regulation.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Liu's research is centered on understanding the structural and functional dynamics of nuclear receptors and transcription factors. He has determined seven crystal structures of protein monomers, protein-protein complexes, and protein-nucleic acid complexes. His work led to the identification of a nuclear receptor inhibitor with 100-fold enhanced efficacy, marking a significant breakthrough in molecular biology. His research contributions are reflected in his publications, including a sole first-author paper in Nucleic Acids Research with an impact factor of 19.16, as well as co-authored papers in Cell Discovery with an impact factor of 38.1 and the Journal of Biological Chemistry with an impact factor of 5.8. He has also played a crucial role in leading prestigious research projects, such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Tianjin Top Scientist Studio Program, securing substantial funding for his research. His studies contribute to a deeper understanding of transcriptional regulation, a crucial aspect in fields like genetics, cancer research, and pharmaceutical development.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Liu’s remarkable contributions to structural biology have been acknowledged with numerous awards. He received the Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award and the Outstanding Ph.D. Graduate Award from China Agricultural University in 2023. In 2022, he was awarded the National Ph.D. Scholarship, ranking second in his college. During his undergraduate years, he secured the Second Prize in the National Mathematical Modeling Competition in 2016 and was a recipient of the National Inspirational Scholarships in 2016 and 2017. He was also honored as an Outstanding Graduate in 2018. These accolades highlight his exceptional academic excellence and research contributions.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Liu’s groundbreaking work has significantly influenced the field of structural biology, particularly in transcriptional regulation. His high-impact publications and research findings pave the way for advancements in drug discovery, genetic regulation, and medical therapeutics. By identifying novel molecular mechanisms and inhibitors, his work has the potential to drive innovations in treating diseases linked to transcriptional dysregulation, such as cancer and metabolic disorders. Beyond research, Dr. Liu's role as a lecturer enables him to inspire and mentor young scientists. His transition from a student to a faculty member positions him as a role model for aspiring biochemists and molecular biologists.

🚀 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Liu is set to make even more substantial contributions to the scientific community. His ongoing research projects, including those funded by national and provincial grants, will continue to advance the understanding of transcriptional regulation. With his expertise in structural biology and biochemistry, he is poised to make further discoveries that will shape the future of molecular medicine. As he continues his academic journey, Dr. Liu’s legacy will be defined by his unwavering dedication to science, his contributions to groundbreaking research, and his role in nurturing the next generation of scientists. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, intellect, and scientific curiosity in pushing the boundaries of knowledge.

 

Publications


  • 📄The Progress and Evolving Trends in Nucleic-Acid-Based Therapies
    Authors: Yunlong Liu, Chunmiao Wang, Xiuping Fu, Mengtian Ren
    Journal: Biomolecules
    Year: 2025


  • 📄Structural Basis of Nucleic Acid Recognition and 6mA Demethylation by Caenorhabditis elegans NMAD-1A
    Authors: Guohui Shang, Meiting Yang, Min Li, Lulu Ma, Yunlong Liu, Jun Ma, Yiyun Chen, Xue Wang, Shilong Fan, Mengjia Xie, et al.
    Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    Year: 2024


  • 📄Structures of Human TR4LBD–JAZF1 and TR4DBD–DNA Complexes Reveal the Molecular Basis of Transcriptional Regulation
    Authors: Yunlong Liu, Lulu Ma, Min Li, Zizi Tian, Meiting Yang, Xi Wu, Xue Wang, Guohui Shang, Mengjia Xie, Yiyun Chen, et al.
    Journal: Nucleic Acids Research
    Year: 2023


  • 📄Structures of MPND Reveal the Molecular Recognition of Nucleosomes
    Authors: Meiting Yang, Xiaorong Li, Zizi Tian, Lulu Ma, Jun Ma, Yunlong Liu, Guohui Shang, Ailing Liang, Wei Wu, Zhongzhou Chen
    Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
    Year: 2023


  • 📄Structural Insights into the Interactions and Epigenetic Functions of Human Nucleic Acid Repair Protein ALKBH6
    Authors: Lulu Ma, Hongyun Lu, Zizi Tian, Meiting Yang, Jun Ma, Guohui Shang, Yunlong Liu, Mengjia Xie, Guoguo Wang, Wei Wu, et al.
    Journal: Journal of Biological Chemistry
    Year: 2022


 

Hyun Min Kim | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Hyun Min Kim | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Duke Kunshan University | China

Author Profile

Scopus

Orcid

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Hyun Min Kim's journey in the scientific realm began with a Bachelor of Science in Life Science from Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea, in 1997. This foundational phase nurtured his interest in microbiology, leading to a Master of Science in Life Science (Microbiology) from the same institution in 1999. His academic ascent culminated in a Ph.D. in Applied Biology (Genetics and Molecular Cell Biology) at Georgia Institute of Technology, USA, in 2009, where he explored genome instability, tri-nucleotide repeats, and their genetic implications. This solid academic grounding propelled him toward groundbreaking discoveries.

👨‍🔬 Professional Endeavors

Prof. Kim’s illustrious career spans continents and decades, beginning as a Chief Research Scientist at Hanyang University Medical School, focusing on cytokine profiling and toll-like receptor proteins. His time as a Research Assistant and later a Post-doctoral Fellow at Harvard Medical School cemented his expertise in genome editing and DNA damage repair mechanisms.
His roles as Associate Professor at Tianjin University and Duke Kunshan University underscore his contributions to epigenetics and the development of CRISPR-Cas9 systems. Currently, he serves as an Associate Professor of the Practice at Duke University, advancing molecular biology through cutting-edge research on histone demethylases and DNA damage repair.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Kim's research revolves around epigenetic regulation and genome editing. He has made pivotal contributions to understanding histone demethylases' roles in DNA damage repair and cancer pathways. His work on CRISPR-Cas9 has refined genome editing techniques, particularly in C. elegans, enabling advances in genetic and therapeutic research. His publications, spanning high-impact journals like Biomolecules, Frontiers in Genetics, and Nature Communications, highlight his dedication to elucidating molecular mechanisms influencing genetic stability and cancer development.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Kim's academic excellence has been consistently recognized. From early scholarships at Hanyang University to the prestigious Sarstedt® Graduate Student Award for his Ph.D. accomplishments, his journey is marked by accolades. He received the Faculty Teaching Award at Tianjin University and multiple travel and mentorship awards, showcasing his dual strengths as a researcher and educator. His innovative work has also attracted significant funding, including grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Kunshan Shuangchuang Grant, totaling millions in support for his transformative projects.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Prof. Kim's efforts have shaped the scientific and academic communities. His leadership roles, such as organizing journal clubs at Harvard Medical School and contributing to editorial boards like Life Journal and Jove Journal, underscore his influence. As a mentor, he has guided budding researchers and students, exemplified by his award for mentoring undergraduates at Georgia Tech. His findings in genome stability, CRISPR-Cas9, and epigenetics continue to inspire advancements in genetic engineering and cancer therapy.

✨ Legacy and Future Contributions

With an eye on the future, Prof. Kim remains committed to unraveling the mysteries of molecular genetics and epigenetics. His work lays a foundation for next-generation cancer therapeutics and genome editing platforms. As a leader in both teaching and research, his legacy will undoubtedly endure, fostering innovation and collaboration in life sciences globally.

 

Publications


📄 Torenia sp. Extracts Contain Multiple Potent Antitumor Compounds with Nematocidal Activity, Triggering an Activated DNA Damage Checkpoint and Defective Meiotic Progression

  • Author: Meng, Q., Borris, R.P., Kim, H.-M.
  • Journal: Pharmaceuticals
  • Year: 2024

📄 Exploring the Impact of Onobrychis cornuta and Veratrum lobelianum Extracts on C. elegans: Implications for MAPK Modulation, Germline Development, and Antitumor Properties

  • Author: Meng, Q., Pathak, N., Ren, X., Borris, R.P., Kim, H.-M.
  • Journal: Nutrients
  • Year: 2024

📖 LSD2 Is an Epigenetic Player in Multiple Types of Cancer and Beyond

  • Author: Kim, H.-M., Liu, Z.
  • Journal: Biomolecules
  • Year: 2024

📖 Experimental Insights into the Interplay between Histone Modifiers and p53 in Regulating Gene Expression

  • Author: Kim, H.-M., Zheng, X., Lee, E.
  • Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences,
  • Year:  2023

📖 A Decade of CRISPR-Cas Genome Editing in C. elegans

  • Author: Kim, H.-M., Hong, Y., Chen, J.
  • Journal:  International Journal of Molecular Sciences
  • Year:  2022

 

Assist Prof  Dr. Andreas Agathangelidis | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof  Dr. Andreas Agathangelidis | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

National and Kapodistrian University of Athens | Greece

Author Profile

Google Scholar

Early Academic Pursuits

Andreas Agathangelidis initiated his scientific journey at Thessaloniki's "G. Papanikolaou" hospital, delving into Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) and antigens for his diploma thesis. Subsequently, his Ph.D. at Aristotle University focused on immunogenetics in B-cell malignancies.

Professional Endeavors

Agathangelidis conducted groundbreaking studies during his Ph.D., notably refining CLL molecular classification using a sizable patient cohort. His postdoctoral research at San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, explored CLL and Monoclonal B lymphocytosis (MBL) under Professor Paolo Ghia, broadening his expertise in advanced genetic methodologies.

Contributions and Research Focus

Significant contributions include expansive studies on CLL patients and the largest worldwide series on Mantle Lymphoma (MCL), emphasizing the role of antigens in disease progression. He conducted diverse immunoprofiling studies, exploring gene rearrangements and subtyping based on immunogenetics, oncogenetics, and immunophenotype integration.

Accolades and Recognition

Agathangelidis' pioneering research secured recognition, including fellowships from the HFRI Foundation and industry funding from Gilead Sciences. His leadership in the "CLLon" project, studying the B cell receptor's role in CLL and MBL development, represents a significant achievement in cancer genetics.

Impact and Influence

His work has significantly challenged prevailing views in disease mechanisms, refining classifications, and paving the way for targeted therapies for B-cell malignancies. The extensive studies he led have had a substantial impact on understanding disease ontogeny and the development of potential treatments.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Currently an Assistant Professor at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Agathangelidis continues his research using advanced NGS technologies. His focus on elucidating the B cell receptor's role in CLL and MBL development through deep sequencing and bioinformatics is poised to bring forth notable advancements in cancer genetics and potential therapeutic avenues.

Notable Publications

Recurrent mutations refine prognosis in chronic lymphocytic leukemia 2014 (219)

A complementary role of multiparameter flow cytometry and high-throughput sequencing for minimal residual disease detection in chronic lymphocytic leukemia: an European Research Initiative on CLL study 2015 (179)

Antigen receptor stereotypy in chronic lymphocytic leukemia 2016 (99)