Yunjie Zhao | Biological Networks | Research Excellence Award

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Prof. Yunjie Zhao | Biological Networks | Research Excellence Award

Central China Normal University | China

Prof. Yunjie Zhao is a distinguished biophysicist who earned his Ph.D. in Biophysics from Huazhong University of Science and Technology in 2012, where he conducted pioneering research on computational prediction of non-coding RNA structures under the mentorship of Prof. Yi Xiao, following his B.S. in Physics from the same institution. He advanced his expertise as a Postdoctoral Research Scientist at The George Washington University with Prof. Chen Zeng, contributing significantly to de novo protein design and bionetwork modeling. Since 2016, he has been a faculty member at Central China Normal University, becoming a full Professor in 2019, and has taught a wide range of courses including Machine Learning, Biophysics, Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, and Physics. Prof. Zhao is an active member of several professional societies, including the Chinese Physical Society and the Biophysical Society of China, and previously the American Physical Society. He serves as an editorial board member for leading journals such as Briefings in Bioinformatics, iScience, Pharmaceuticals, Life, Biomolecules, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, and Scientific Reports, and is a frequent reviewer for top-tier publications including Nature Biotechnology, Nature Reviews Genetics, Nature Machine Intelligence, Nature Communications, and Physical Review Letters. His research contributions are further reflected in multiple granted patents spanning protein–ligand binding site prediction, RNA contact prediction, plant lectin polymerization peptide inhibitors, and protein drug binding pocket prediction, underscoring his impactful contributions to computational biology and biophysics.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

"RNA-protein interaction prediction using network-guided deep learning", H Liu, Y Jian, C Zeng, Y Zhao, Communications Biology 8 (1), 2025.

"Advances and Mechanisms of RNA–Ligand Interaction Predictions", C Zhuo, C Zeng, H Liu, H Wang, Y Peng, Y Zhao Life 15 (1), 2025.

"Decoding the effects of mutation on protein interactions using machine learning", W Xu, A Li, Y Zhao, Y Peng, Biophysics Reviews 6 (1), 2025.

"Advances in Methods for Accurate Prediction of RNA–Small Molecule Binding Sites: From Isolated to AI-Integrated Strategies", J Gao, C Zhuo, C Zeng, H Liu, Y Zhao, Pharmaceuticals 18 (10), 2025.

"Ab initio HIV-1 Tat–TAR interactions study using hybrid scoring-enhanced molecular modeling across subtypes", C Zeng, H Wang, J Gao, H Liu, C Zhuo, Y Zhao, Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics 27 (27), 2025.

Radim Vrzal | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Radim Vrzal | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Palacky University in Olomouc | Czech Republic

Author Profiles

Scopus

Orcid ID

Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Dr. Radim Vrzal began his academic journey with a Master’s degree in Biochemistry from the Institute of Chemical Technology in Prague (1998–2003). His academic excellence and research aptitude led him to pursue a Ph.D. in cotutelle between Palacký University, Olomouc, and INSERM, Montpellier, France, where he investigated biochemical mechanisms under expert international guidance. This early exposure to collaborative research set the foundation for his future contributions in molecular biology, pharmacology, and toxicology.

Professional Endeavors

He commenced his professional career as an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Palacký University, in 2006. His teaching and research responsibilities later expanded at the Department of Cell Biology and Genetics, where he has served as an Associate Professor since 2011. Over the years, he has demonstrated excellence in pedagogy, supervising more than 40 students across bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. levels, while consistently engaging in advanced teaching in hematology, human genetics, and toxicology.

Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Vrzal’s research spans a wide spectrum of molecular and cellular biology, with a special emphasis on ligand-activated nuclear receptors, drug metabolism, cytotoxicity, and cellular signaling. His investigations into the biological activity of natural and synthetic compounds, post-translational modifications of nuclear receptors, and applications of human intestinal organoids mark his innovative approach to biomedical research. His ongoing work in prostate cancer and anticancer therapeutics highlights the translational value of his research.

Impact and Influence

With 99 publications indexed in WoS, over 1,600 citations (excluding self-citations), and an H-index of 25, Prof. Vrzal has established a solid academic presence. His work has significantly contributed to understanding receptor-mediated mechanisms and their pharmacological implications, influencing both academic discourse and applied therapeutic research. As a grant holder and collaborator, he has led and co-led several national and international projects, including studies on MAP kinases, CYP3A4 enzyme regulation, and synthetic tryptamine derivatives for cancer treatment.

Academic Citations

His research is widely cited, reflecting the global relevance of his work. The citation record underscores his contributions to advancing pharmacology and toxicology, where his insights have informed subsequent studies on drug metabolism and receptor signaling. This recognition also highlights his influence on shaping research directions in biochemical and biomedical sciences.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Vrzal’s legacy lies in his dual commitment to advancing scientific research and nurturing the next generation of scholars. His supervision of numerous students and his long-standing dedication to teaching ensure knowledge transfer and academic continuity. Looking forward, his ongoing projects on anticancer therapeutics and cellular models hold promise for impactful discoveries in medicine and pharmacotherapy.

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Radim Vrzal exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated researcher, mentor, and innovator. His academic trajectory, impactful research contributions, and sustained influence in molecular and biomedical sciences position him as a deserving candidate for recognition. His ability to bridge fundamental science with applied therapeutic research ensures that his future work will continue to make meaningful contributions to both academia and society.

Notable Publications

“Skin-targeted AhR activation by microbial and synthetic indoles: Insights from the AhaRaCaT reporter cell" 

  • Author: Radim Vrzal; Aneta Grycová; Aneta Vrzalová
  • Journal: Toxicology Letters
  • Year: 2025

"‏Orchestra of ligand-activated transcription factors in the molecular symphony of SERPINE 1 / PAI-1 gene regulation" 

  • Author: Aneta Vrzalova; Radim Vrzal‏
  • Journal: Biochimie
  • Year: 2025

"Modulation of aryl hydrocarbon receptor activity by halogenated indoles" 

  • Author: Aneta Vrzalová; Radim Vrzal; Petr Nádvorník; Marek Šebela; Zdeněk Dvořák
  • Journal: Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry
  • Year: 2024

"Jasmone Is a Ligand-Selective Allosteric Antagonist of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR)" 

  • Author: Radim Vrzal; Adéla Marcalíková; Kristýna Krasulová; Lenka Zemánková; Zdeněk Dvořák‏
  • Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences‏
  • Year: 2023

"Monoterpenoid aryl hydrocarbon receptor allosteric antagonists protect against ultraviolet skin damage in female mice" 

  • Author: Karolína Ondrová; Iveta Zůvalová; Barbora Vyhlídalová; Kristýna Krasulová; Eva Miková; Radim Vrzal; Petr Nádvorník; Martina Kopečná; David Kopečný; Marek Šebela et al.
  • Journal: Nature Communications
  • Year: 2021

 

June Round | Biological Networks | Best Researcher Award 

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Dr. June Round | Biological Networks | Best Researcher Award 

University of Utah | United States

Author Profiles

Scopus

Google Scholar

Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. June Round’s academic journey reflects a foundation of dedication and scholarly excellence. Beginning with a B.S. in Biology (Cum Laude) at California Lutheran University, she distinguished herself early through departmental honors and multiple scholarships. Her passion for molecular biology led to an M.S. from the University of the Pacific, followed by a D.Phil. in Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics at UCLA, supported by highly competitive fellowships. Her formative postdoctoral training at the California Institute of Technology under Sarkis K. Mazmanian provided a strong platform to explore the intricate interplay between microbiota and host immunity, setting the stage for her pioneering career.

Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as a Professor at the University of Utah, Dr. Round has held numerous leadership roles including Director of the Mountain West Microbiota Alliance (MoWMA) and Co-Director of the Microbiota and GI Immunology Consortia (MAGIC). She has chaired multiple search committees, overseen postdoctoral studies, and contributed extensively to university-level, college-level, and departmental governance. Her sustained involvement in NIH study sections, national symposia, and scientific advisory boards underscores her standing as a leader in immunology and microbial pathogenesis.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Round’s research focuses on microbiota–immune system interactions, particularly their role in regulating immune tolerance and driving inflammatory diseases. Her laboratory has produced high-impact work elucidating mechanisms by which commensal microbes shape host immunity, contributing to transformative understanding in immunology, microbiology, and gastrointestinal health. Her investigations into toll-like receptors, dysbiosis, and immune regulation have provided new frameworks for therapeutic exploration in autoimmune and inflammatory disorders.

Impact and Influence

The significance of Dr. Round’s research is reflected in her numerous prestigious awards, including the NIH Innovator Award, Packard Fellowship, Pew Scholar Award, Burroughs Wellcome Investigator in Pathogenesis, and the W.M. Keck Research Award. These honors not only recognize her innovative contributions but also demonstrate her influence in shaping the field. She has trained and mentored a generation of young scientists, many of whom now serve as professors, researchers, and clinicians in leading institutions worldwide—an enduring testament to her academic leadership.

Academic Citations and Recognition

Dr. Round’s scholarship has been widely published in top-tier journals including Cell, Nature Reviews Immunology, Science Immunology, and Annual Review of Microbiology. Her reviews and original research articles are highly cited, frequently shaping discourse in immunology and microbiome research. Her contributions extend beyond publications through book chapters and invited conference proceedings, amplifying her thought leadership in the global scientific community.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Round’s legacy lies in bridging microbiology and immunology, redefining the microbiota’s role in human health and disease. Through her pioneering studies, administrative leadership, and mentorship, she has cultivated a scientific ecosystem that will continue to grow. Moving forward, her leadership in major microbiome initiatives and consortia is poised to advance translational breakthroughs, from novel therapeutics for autoimmune disease to deeper insights into the human–microbe interface.

Conclusion

Dr. June Round’s career reflects the hallmarks of an exceptional researcher: rigorous scholarship, innovative vision, academic leadership, and transformative mentorship. Her pioneering contributions to microbiome and immune system research have reshaped fundamental scientific understanding while fostering future leaders in biomedical science. With her remarkable impact, both in the laboratory and across academic institutions, Dr. Round stands as an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Notable Publications

"Neonatal fungi promote lifelong metabolic health through macrophage-dependent β cell development" 

  • Author: JH Hill, R Bell, L Barrios, H Baird, K Ost, M Greenewood, JK Monts
  • Journal: Science
  • Year: 2025

"The gut microbiome is associated with disease‐free survival in stage I–III colorectal cancer patients" 

  • Author: DA Byrd, V Damerell, MF Gomez Morales, SR Hogue, T Lin, J Ose
  • Journal: International Journal of Cancer
  • Year: 2025

"A microRNA-regulated transcriptional state defines intratumoral CD8+ T cells that respond to immunotherapy" 

  • Author: WW Tang, B Battistone, KM Bauer, AM Weis, C Barba, MZH Fadlullah
  • Journal: Cell reports
  • Year: 2025

"Primary tumor microbiomes predict distant metastasis of colorectal cancer" 

  • Author: B Parajuli, V Midya, R Kiddle, N De Jager, S Eggers, D Spakowicz
  • Journal: Cell reports
  • Year: 2025

"Clec12a controls colitis by tempering inflammation and restricting expansion of specific commensals" 

  • Author: TR Chiaro, M Greenewood, KM Bauer, KS Ost, E Stephen-Victor
  • Journal: bioRxiv
  • Year: 2025