Weiguang Zhang | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Weiguang Zhang | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award 

Prof. Weiguang Zhang, Peking university, China

Prof. Weiguang Zhang, a distinguished professor at Peking University Health Science Center, is a leading expert in human anatomy, vascular structure, and lipid metabolism. Serving as the Director of the Medical Library and Executive Deputy Director of the Department of Human Anatomy and Histology, he integrates AI into medical education and leads numerous national-level research and teaching projects. With over 70 high-impact publications, a patent, and key editorial and professional roles, Prof. Zhang is widely recognized for his academic excellence, innovation, and leadership in anatomical sciences and medical library development.

Author profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Weiguang Zhang embarked on his academic journey with a profound interest in the structure and function of the human body. His early education was rooted in rigorous medical sciences, where he showed a particular affinity for anatomy, histology, and embryology. His foundational years were marked by an exceptional ability to merge classical anatomical knowledge with evolving medical technology.

It was during this formative period that Prof. Zhang recognized the transformative potential of technology in anatomical education, which would later define much of his academic legacy. He honed his expertise through advanced degrees and research engagements that laid the groundwork for his groundbreaking work in vascular anatomy and lipid metabolism of the liver and brain.

👨‍⚕️ Professional Endeavors

Prof. Zhang currently serves as Professor and Doctoral Supervisor in the Department of Human Anatomy, Histology, and Embryology at the School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center. He is also the Director of the Medical Library of Peking University and the Executive Deputy Director of his department — roles that showcase his versatile leadership across education, research, and institutional development.

With a deep-seated commitment to academic excellence, he has successfully led and managed over 20 major teaching and research projects, many of which received national and municipal-level recognition. His passion for teaching extends beyond the classroom—Prof. Zhang is a dedicated mentor to more than 20 doctoral and master’s students, and has supervised over 100 undergraduate innovators in research and innovation.

He has also played an instrumental role in establishing the Brain Bank, a significant initiative that facilitates neurological research and post-mortem anatomical studies for scientific and educational advancement.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Zhang’s primary research interests lie in the vascular architecture and lipid metabolism of the liver and brain — critical areas in understanding neurovascular diseases, fatty liver disorders, and related systemic pathologies. His studies have advanced knowledge in microvascular anatomy, hepatic circulation, and cerebral lipid transport, contributing significantly to translational medicine.

In addition to his research in anatomy, Prof. Zhang is a pioneer in applying artificial intelligence (AI) to medical education, particularly in human anatomy teaching. He has developed AI-integrated pedagogical models that enhance visualization and interactivity in anatomical learning — a substantial shift from traditional methods.

His scholarly output includes:

  • 70+ SCI/Scopus-indexed publications

  • 10 major consultancy and industry collaborations

  • Authorship of books and textbooks, including one with ISBN: 978-7-5659-3126-0

  • A patent (CN 118001408) related to his core research areas

Prof. Zhang’s editorial influence is evident in his role as Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Anatomy, where he helps shape the future of scholarly discourse in anatomical sciences.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Prof. Zhang’s contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including:

  • National Curriculum Ideology & Politics Teaching Expert

  • Beijing Distinguished Teaching Award

  • Peking University Teaching Excellence Award

His commitment to teaching innovation and research leadership has established him as a trusted authority both nationally and internationally. He also holds the position of Deputy Secretary-General of the Chinese Anatomical Society, further amplifying his voice in national anatomical policy and curriculum development.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Prof. Zhang’s influence extends well beyond the academic sphere. His work in intelligent medical library development has revolutionized access to medical resources, supporting students, researchers, and clinicians across China. As a multifaceted educator, his blending of AI and anatomical science serves as a model for modern medical instruction in the 21st century.

Through his role in the Brain Bank initiative, he provides an invaluable infrastructure for research into neurodegenerative diseases, brain injuries, and more — cementing his reputation as a key contributor to both medical science and public health advancement.

His interdisciplinary impact resonates in:

  • Medical curriculum reform

  • Digital transformation in education

  • Cross-institutional and global research collaborations

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Zhang’s career is a remarkable blend of tradition and transformation. He preserves the rich legacy of classical anatomical science while trailblazing into future-forward domains such as AI-based teaching and data-driven research. His mentorship of a new generation of scientists ensures that his innovative spirit and scholarly integrity will continue to shape the field long into the future.

Looking ahead, Prof. Zhang aims to:

  • Expand AI applications in medical simulation

  • Strengthen international anatomical research networks

  • Develop open-access resources through his leadership in the medical library domain

  • Drive policy changes to integrate tech-enhanced learning into national curricula

✍️Publication Top Notes


📘 Th2 cells infiltrating high-grade serous ovarian cancer: a feature that may account for the poor prognosis

ContributorsHao Su; Yueqi Jin; Changyu Tao; Hua Yang; Ence Yang; Wei-Guang Zhang; Fengzhi Feng
Journal: Gynecologic Oncology
Year: 2023

📘 Dihydromyricetin Alleviates Ischemic Brain Injury by Antagonizing Pyroptosis in Rats

Contributors: Huiru Ding; Quancheng Cheng; Xuan Fang; Ziyuan Wang; Jinyu Fang; Huaicun Liu; Junwei Zhang; Chunhua Chen; Weiguang Zhang
Journal: Neurotherapeutics
Year: 2023

📘Percutaneous Release of the First Extensor Tendon Compartment in De Quervain’s Disease by Acupotomy with US-Guidance: A Cadaveric Study

ContributorsYifeng Shen; Qiaoyin Zhou; Xiaojie Sun; Shiliang Li; Weiguang Zhang
Journal: Pain Research
Year: 2022

Li Zhou | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award | 13329

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Li Zhou | Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Li Zhou, Jiangnan University, China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Li Zhou is a researcher at Jiangnan University, specializing in microbial metabolic engineering and synthetic biology. Holding a Ph.D. in Fermentation Engineering, Dr. Zhou has made significant contributions to the biosynthesis of value-added compounds such as L-alanine, D-lactate, and terpenoids with industrial applications. With 66 journal publications and collaborations with Zhejiang University, University of Stellenbosch, and Durban University of Technology, Dr. Zhou has advanced dynamic metabolic engineering frameworks for sustainable biomanufacturing. His research is widely recognized, with 1,649 citations, three patents, and impactful contributions to metabolic engineering and biotechnology.

Profile

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Li Zhou’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in biotechnology, leading him to pursue a Ph.D. in Fermentation Engineering from Jiangnan University. His doctoral research focused on optimizing microbial pathways to enhance fermentation efficiency, laying the groundwork for his future contributions to microbial metabolic engineering. Through rigorous training and an in-depth understanding of synthetic biology, Dr. Zhou developed expertise in engineering microbial systems for industrial applications, particularly in biosynthesis and bio-based production.

Professional Endeavors 🌍

Since joining the School of Biotechnology at Jiangnan University as an Associate Professor in 2012, Dr. Zhou has dedicated himself to advancing microbial metabolic engineering. Over the past decade, he has worked on multiple research projects, applying innovative synthetic biology approaches to microbial cell factories. His collaborations with Zhejiang University, the University of Stellenbosch, and Durban University of Technology have led to groundbreaking studies published in high-impact journals such as Bioresource Technology and Metabolic Engineering.

Dr. Zhou has also contributed to industrial advancements, bridging the gap between academia and real-world applications. His consultancy work has facilitated the implementation of bio-based solutions in commercial settings, further reinforcing the relevance of his research to sustainable manufacturing.

Contributions and Research Focus 👩‍�

Dr. Zhou specializes in microbial metabolic engineering, with a particular emphasis on optimizing Escherichia coli for efficient biosynthesis of high-value compounds. His research has led to the industrial-scale production of:

  • L-Alanine: Used as a food additive for enhanced nutritional value.
  • D-Lactate: A crucial component in the production of biodegradable plastics.
  • Terpenoids: Essential for pharmaceutical intermediates, supporting drug development and medical research.

One of Dr. Zhou’s most notable achievements is the establishment of dynamic metabolic engineering frameworks that enable precise regulation of microbial cell factories. His methodologies have significantly improved biomanufacturing efficiency, reducing resource consumption while maximizing yield. His work aligns with global sustainability efforts, promoting environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional chemical synthesis.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Zhou’s research contributions have earned him recognition within the scientific community. With an impressive citation index of 1,649, his work has been widely referenced, influencing subsequent studies in microbial engineering. He has published 66 peer-reviewed journal articles in prestigious scientific databases such as SCI and Scopus, contributing to the global body of knowledge in biomanufacturing.

Additionally, he holds three patents, underscoring his commitment to translating academic research into tangible technological advancements. His innovative approaches have been acknowledged by leading institutions, further solidifying his reputation as a key figure in the field of metabolic engineering.

Publication Top Notes

Dynamically metabolic engineering overflow metabolism for efficient production of l-alanine in Escherichia coli

ContributorsJinyang Li; Jiawen Shen; Wuyue Ye; Xinyan Tang; Zhiyu Wang; Muyun Geng; Yunye Liu; Xianzhong Chen; Li Zhou

Journal: Bioresource Technology
Year: 2025
ContributorsZhou, L.; Wang, Q.; Shen, J.; Li, Y.; Zhang, H.; Zhang, X.; Yang, S.; Jiang, Z.; Wang, M.; Li, J. et al.

Journal: Bioresource Technology
Contributors: Zhou, L.; Wang, Q.; Shen, J.; Li, Y.; Zhang, H.; Zhang, X.; Yang, S.; Jiang, Z.; Wang, M.; Li, J. et al.
Journal: Bioresource Technology
Year: 2024

Roman Jerala | Synthetic Biology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Roman Jerala | Synthetic Biology | Best Researcher Award

Head of department at National Institute of Chemistry, Slovenia.

Dr. Roman Jerala is a distinguished researcher and academic with profound expertise in synthetic biology and molecular biology. As Head of the Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology at the National Institute of Chemistry in Ljubljana since 2002, and as a Full Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Ljubljana since 2010, he has made significant contributions to these fields. Dr. Jerala is renowned for his pioneering work in protein engineering, particularly in developing coiled-coil protein origami structures, and for advancing molecular modeling and computational biology techniques. His research spans diverse areas including structural biology, protein-protein interactions, and cellular signaling, critical for innovations in gene and cell therapy. With over 230 publications and numerous awards, including an ERC Advanced Grant and memberships in prestigious scientific societies, Dr. Jerala’s leadership and expertise continue to drive advancements at the interface of biology and technology, making profound impacts on the understanding and application of biological systems.

Professional Profiles:

Education 🎓

Prof. Dr. Roman Jerala is a distinguished researcher and academic with extensive expertise in biochemistry and molecular biology. He earned his Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the Jožef Stefan Institute (JSI) in Ljubljana, Slovenia, in 1993. Prior to this, he completed his BSc in Chemistry at the Faculty of Chemistry and Chemical Technology, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia, in 1988. These educational achievements laid the groundwork for his illustrious career focused on synthetic biology and immunology. Currently serving as the Head of the Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology at the National Institute of Chemistry (NIC) in Ljubljana, and as a Full Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Ljubljana, Prof. Jerala continues to lead groundbreaking research initiatives and contribute significantly to the field through his innovative work in protein design and molecular regulation.

Professional Experience

Dr. Roman Jerala occupies pivotal roles in Slovenia’s academic and research sectors. Since 2002, he has served as the Head of the Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology at the National Institute of Chemistry (NIC) in Ljubljana. In this capacity, Dr. Jerala spearheads innovative research endeavors, particularly in synthetic biology and immunological studies, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery. Concurrently, since 2010, he has held the position of Full Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Ljubljana. Here, he plays a crucial role in shaping the next generation of scientists, imparting knowledge, and guiding students in groundbreaking research pursuits in molecular biology. Dr. Jerala’s dual leadership roles underscore his profound impact on academia, where his research and educational contributions continue to influence the fields of synthetic biology and molecular biology, both nationally and internationally. His work exemplifies a dedication to advancing scientific understanding and application in complex biological systems.

Research Interest

Dr. Roman Jerala’s research interests span across synthetic biology, molecular immunology, and biochemistry, focusing on innovative approaches to biological systems and their applications. He explores the design and construction of novel biomolecular tools and systems, particularly in the realm of synthetic biology, aiming to engineer biological entities for therapeutic and biotechnological purposes. His work includes the development of protein-based nanomaterials, such as coiled-coil protein origami, and the design of synthetic gene circuits for controlling cellular processes. Dr. Jerala’s research also delves into molecular immunology, investigating immune responses and developing strategies for immunotherapy. His interdisciplinary approach integrates biochemistry, molecular biology, and computational modeling to address fundamental questions in biology and to create new technologies with potential clinical applications.

Award and Honors

Dr. Roman Jerala, a distinguished scientist, holds key positions in academia and research. As Head of the Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology at the National Institute of Chemistry (NIC) in Ljubljana since 2002, and as a Full Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Ljubljana since 2010, he exemplifies leadership in advancing scientific frontiers. His research interests span synthetic biology, molecular immunology, and biochemistry, focusing on innovative approaches like coiled-coil protein origami and mammalian synthetic biology tools. Dr. Jerala’s contributions have garnered significant recognition, including an ERC Advanced Grant in 2018, the Datta Prize by FEBS in 2021, and election to prestigious bodies like the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts and EMBO. His achievements extend to numerous accolades from international forums and his role in fostering scientific advancements through groundbreaking research and leadership in scientific societies and editorial boards, highlighting his profound impact on the field of molecular biology and beyond.

Research Skills

Dr. Roman Jerala possesses advanced research skills honed through decades of pioneering work in molecular biology and synthetic biology. His expertise includes protein engineering, particularly in the design and construction of coiled-coil protein origami structures. He is adept in structural biology techniques such as SAXS and EM for protein characterization, as well as high-resolution crystallography. Dr. Jerala’s research involves extensive use of molecular modeling and computational biology to design novel protein assemblies and regulatory systems. He is proficient in cellular and molecular techniques for studying protein-protein interactions and cellular signaling pathways, crucial for his developments in mammalian synthetic biology. His interdisciplinary approach integrates principles from bioinformatics, biophysics, and chemistry, facilitating the creation of innovative tools for gene and cell therapy applications. Dr. Jerala’s research skills are underscored by his prolific publication record and extensive collaborations with leading international researchers, reflecting his leadership in advancing the frontiers of biological sciences through cutting-edge research methodologies.

Publications

  1. Mechanism of endosomal TLR inhibition by antimalarial drugs and imidazoquinolines
    • Authors: A Kužnik, M Benčina, U Švajger, M Jeras, B Rozman, R Jerala
    • Year: 2011
    • Citations: 683
  2. The refined 2.4 AX‐ray crystal structure of recombinant human stefin B in complex with the cysteine proteinase papain: a novel type of proteinase inhibitor interaction
    • Authors: MT Stubbs, B Laber, W Bode, R Huber, R Jerala, B Lenarcic, V Turk
    • Year: 1990
    • Citations: 599
  3. Characterization of quercetin binding site on DNA gyrase
    • Authors: A Plaper, M Golob, I Hafner, M Oblak, T Šolmajer, R Jerala
    • Year: 2003
    • Citations: 422
  4. Structural biology of the LPS recognition
    • Author: R Jerala
    • Year: 2007
    • Citations: 413
  5. Design of a single-chain polypeptide tetrahedron assembled from coiled-coil segments
    • Authors: H Gradišar, S Božič, T Doles, D Vengust, I Hafner-Bratkovič, A Mertelj, R Jerala
    • Year: 2013
    • Citations: 347
  6. Similarities and Specificities of Fungal Keratinolytic Proteases: Comparison of Keratinases of Paecilomyces marquandii and Doratomyces microsporus to Some …
    • Authors: H Gradišar, J Friedrich, I Krizaj, R Jerala
    • Year: 2005
    • Citations: 315
  7. Green tea catechins inhibit bacterial DNA gyrase by interaction with its ATP binding site
    • Authors: H Gradišar, P Pristovšek, A Plaper, R Jerala
    • Year: 2007
    • Citations: 305
  8. DNA-guided assembly of biosynthetic pathways promotes improved catalytic efficiency
    • Authors: RJ Conrado, GC Wu, JT Boock, H Xu, SY Chen, T Lebar, J Turnšek, R Jerala
    • Year: 2012
    • Citations: 301
  9. Chemistry of lipid A: at the heart of innate immunity
    • Authors: A Molinaro, O Holst, F Di Lorenzo, M Callaghan, A Nurisso, G D’Errico, R Jerala
    • Year: 2015
    • Citations: 261
  10. Three-dimensional domain swapping in the folded and molten-globule states of cystatins, an amyloid-forming structural superfamily
    • Authors: RA Staniforth, S Giannini, LD Higgins, MJ Conroy, AM Hounslow, R Jerala
    • Year: 2001
    • Citations: 246
  11. Primary structure of a new cysteine proteinase inhibitor from pig leucocytes
    • Authors: A Ritonja, M Kopitar, R Jerala, V Turk
    • Year: 1989
    • Citations: 202
  12. The POM monoclonals: a comprehensive set of antibodies to non-overlapping prion protein epitopes
    • Authors: M Polymenidou, R Moos, M Scott, C Sigurdson, Y Shi, B Yajima, R Jerala
    • Year: 2008
    • Citations: 194
  13. Toll‐like receptor 4 activation in cancer progression and therapy
    • Authors: A Oblak, R Jerala
    • Year: 2011
    • Citations: 187