Murad Novruzov | Immunotherapy | Pharmaceutical Excellence Award

Mr. Murad Novruzov | Immunotherapy | Pharmaceutical Excellence Award

Ronin Institute | Azerbaijan

Mr. Murad Novruzov is an independent researcher whose work spans the intersecting frontiers of immunology, cancer biology, experimental oncology, neurology, and functional neuroscience. His research focuses on building theoretical and preclinical frameworks that advance the understanding of complex diseases, particularly late-stage cancer and neurological disorders. His scientific interests include cancer immunotherapy, tumor microenvironment dynamics, bacteriotherapy, cytokine-based treatments, T-cell engineering, oncolytic bacterial systems, and enzymatic tumor disruption. Complementing his work in oncology, he also explores neuropathy rehabilitation, peripheral nerve injury mechanisms, neuroregeneration, and the development of non-surgical motor recovery protocols.Over the course of his multidisciplinary journey, Mr. Novruzov has contributed to several organizations across biomedical research, information technology, healthcare analytics, and academic innovation. He is affiliated with the Ronin Institute and serves as a researcher within Health & Science Initiatives, where he is involved in shaping novel biomedical concepts and translational research directions. His long-standing involvement in Murad Novruzov Biomedical Research reflects his commitment to independent scientific inquiry, allowing him to develop unconventional yet scientifically grounded strategies for personalized oncology and neurofunctional rehabilitation.Beyond laboratory and theoretical research, Mr. Novruzov possesses extensive experience in IT systems integration, analytical model development, and large-scale data processing. His leadership role at Minihomme highlights his ability to merge technical and scientific expertise, while his work in major healthcare institutions demonstrates his proficiency in big data analytics, clinical data interpretation, and medical informatics. His contributions extend to academia and scientific administration, where he has supported analysis system development and participated in international scientific relations at prominent institutions.Mr. Novruzov maintains a strong presence in global scientific networks through platforms such as SciProfiles and ORCID, allowing him to share his evolving body of work with the wider research community. His interdisciplinary perspective—uniting oncology, immunology, neurology, computational modeling, and IT—positions him as a versatile thinker dedicated to advancing next-generation biomedical solutions. Driven by curiosity and innovation, he continues to develop theoretical protocols aimed at transforming future approaches in personalized medicine, cancer therapy, and neuroregenerative science.

Profile: Orcid

Featured Publications

Novruzov, M., Mammadova, M., & Shiraliyeva, U. Hypothetical Mechanisms of Immune Response Activation Under Profound Suppression. Zenodo. DOI: 10.5281/ZENODO.16740757.

Novruzov, M., Mammadova, M., & Shiraliyeva, U. Hypothetical Mechanisms of Immune Response Activation Under Profound Suppression (Preprint). Preprint Server. DOI: 10.2196/preprints.86151.

Novruzov, M., Mammadova, M., Raval, K., & Shiraliyeva, U. Second Breath: Systems-Level Model of Localized Immune Cascade Programming in Desmoplastic Tumors (In Silico-Validated, Literature-Anchored) (Preprint). Preprint Server. DOI: 10.2196/preprints.85933.

Novruzov, M., Mammadova, M., Raval, K., & Shiraliyeva, U. Second Breath: Systems-Level Model of Localized Immune Cascade Programming in Desmoplastic Tumors (In Silico-Validated, Literature-Anchored) (Preprint). Preprint Server. DOI: 10.2196/preprints.85507.

Novruzov, M., Mammadova, M., Raval, K., & Shiraliyeva, U. Second Breath: Systems-Level Model of Localized Immune Cascade Programming in Desmoplastic Tumors (In Silico-Validated, Literature-Anchored). Zenodo. DOI: 10.5281/ZENODO.16736769.

Novruzov, M., & Shiraliyeva, U. Malignant Tumors: Therapeutic Modalities, Mechanisms, Step-by-Step Application, Toxicities and Clinical Interactions. Zenodo. DOI: 10.5281/ZENODO.17219649.

Yannis Hamidou | Immunotherapy |

Mr. Yannis Hamidou | Immunotherapy | Best Researcher Award

Yannis Hamidou at Amiens Picardie University Hospital | France

Mr. Yannis Hamidou is a dedicated rheumatologist currently serving as Clinic Chief Assistant at CHU Amiens-Picardie, France. With a strong academic background in medical sciences, rheumatology, and sports medicine, he has actively contributed to clinical research focusing on autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. His expertise spans therapeutic innovations, patient-centered care, and multidisciplinary collaborations aimed at improving outcomes in rheumatology and intensive care settings. Through his clinical practice and research endeavors, Mr. Hamidou has developed a reputation for excellence in precision treatment strategies and evidence-based medicine, significantly impacting rheumatology healthcare and contributing to advancements in patient management practices.

Publication Profile 

Orcid

Education 

Mr. Yannis Hamidou completed his postgraduate diploma in medical sciences, laying the foundation for his medical career. He successfully defended his medical thesis , advancing his academic and clinical expertise. To specialize further, he obtained a postgraduate diploma in rheumatology, focusing on autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. Additionally, he completed a specialization in sports medicine and earned the BPC certification, broadening his clinical competencies. This comprehensive academic training has equipped him with extensive knowledge across internal medicine, rheumatology, and sports-related healthcare, preparing him for leadership roles in clinical care, research, and education.

Experience 

Mr. Yannis Hamidou is currently serving as Clinic Chief Assistant at CHU Amiens-Picardie, where he integrates clinical care with research responsibilities. His work in intensive care medicine includes serving as Principal Investigator for an observational clinical study, focusing on chronic inflammatory diseases in critical care settings. Alongside his clinical duties, he actively participates in developing patient-specific treatment strategies for autoimmune and rheumatologic disorders. His multidisciplinary experience spans rheumatology, sports medicine, and internal medicine, providing comprehensive care solutions. He also contributes to academic teaching and mentoring, fostering evidence-based clinical practices while engaging in ongoing research aimed at improving patient outcomes.

Awards and Honors 

Mr. Yannis Hamidou academic achievements and clinical leadership reflect his professional excellence. His appointments, including Clinic Chief Assistant at CHU Amiens-Picardie and Principal Investigator roles in clinical studies, highlight his recognition within the medical community. His selection for advanced training in rheumatology, sports medicine, and critical care research further emphasizes his commitment to advancing medical science. Future recognitions are anticipated as his contributions to rheumatology research, patient care innovations, and academic scholarship continue to grow, positioning him as a promising leader in the field of rheumatology and clinical medicine in France.

Research Focus 

Mr. Yannis Hamidou research primarily targets autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, with a focus on therapeutic innovations and patient outcome optimization. His work in rheumatology explores the long-term maintenance of advanced therapies like Janus kinase inhibitors and investigates biomarkers such as fecal calprotectin for early disease detection. Additionally, he has contributed to understanding mortality causes in intensive care settings among patients with chronic inflammatory diseases. By integrating real-world data and observational clinical research, his studies aim to refine diagnostic precision, enhance treatment strategies, and inform evidence-based clinical guidelines, ultimately improving healthcare delivery for patients with complex rheumatologic conditions.

Publication Top Notes

Rulla Tamimi | Immunotherapy | Best Researcher Award

Rulla Tamimi | Immunotherapy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rulla Tamimi at Weill Cornell Medicine Dept of Healthcar, United States.

Dr. Rulla M. Tamimi is a leading cancer epidemiologist and Professor of Population Health Sciences and Pathology at Weill Cornell Medicine. With over two decades of experience in breast cancer research, her work centers on cancer risk prediction, environmental exposures, and molecular epidemiology. A pioneer in integrating biomarkers and epidemiologic data, she has advanced understanding of breast cancer heterogeneity and disparities. Dr. Tamimi is also a principal investigator for multiple NIH-funded studies and a dedicated educator. She plays a critical role in shaping future public health strategies and improving women’s health through rigorous research and community-engaged science.

Publication Profile 

Scopus

Education

Dr. Tamimi holds a B.S. in Biology from Tufts University (1993), followed by an M.S. (1999) and Sc.D. (2003) in Epidemiology from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Her academic training is rooted in public health, statistical methods, and cancer epidemiology. She received advanced training at Harvard, which set the stage for a prolific research and academic career in molecular and clinical epidemiology. Her education enabled her to translate complex biological mechanisms into population-level cancer prevention strategies, and her leadership has consistently bridged rigorous epidemiological research with patient-focused public health innovation.

Experience

Dr. Tamimi has held prestigious academic positions including Instructor, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School and Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (2003–2020). She currently serves as Professor at Weill Cornell Medicine (2020–Present). With over 20 years in academic medicine, she’s also served as Associate Epidemiologist at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Dr. Tamimi leads NIH- and NCI-funded multi-institutional projects, mentoring future epidemiologists while advancing cancer research. She has contributed to global education through lectures and program direction across institutions including Boston University, Harvard, and National University of Singapore.

Awards 

Dr. Tamimi has received multiple accolades for her visionary research. She earned the “Good Questions Meet Big Data” Ideation Challenge Award from Harvard Catalyst in 2017 and became a Susan G. Komen Scholar in 2020. Her election to prominent organizations such as the American Association for Cancer Research, Society for Epidemiologic Research, and Cornell Center for Health Equity highlights her influence in the field. These recognitions reflect her leadership in molecular epidemiology, commitment to health equity, and significant contributions to cancer prevention research on both national and global scales.

Research Focus 

Dr. Tamimi’s research explores breast cancer heterogeneity, environmental exposures, and the biological underpinnings of cancer risk. Her projects evaluate how dietary carotenoids, genetic variants, circulating metabolites, and breast tissue markers influence cancer outcomes. She is especially interested in aggressive tumor subtypes, breast cancer in young women, and disparities across racial and socioeconomic lines. Current studies also examine stromal contributions to carcinogenesis and social determinants of health through the SoCa Center. Her work connects molecular biology with epidemiological insights to improve early detection, prevention, and personalized treatment strategies for breast cancer.

Publication Top Notes

  • Regular aspirin use, breast tumor characteristics and long-term breast cancer survival
  • Development and validation of a risk prediction model for premenopausal breast cancer in 19 cohorts
  • Disparities in adherence to guideline-concordant care and receipt of immunotherapy for Non-Small cell lung cancer in the United States
  • Thromboembolic Events Are Increased After Splenectomy in Postmenopausal Women
  • The Breast Tumor Immune Microenvironment of DNA Double-Strand Break Repair Pathogenic Variant Carriers Is Enriched with Tumor-Associated Macrophages
  • The impact of reproductive factors on breast tumor and normal-adjacent tissue immune profile from menarche to menopause
  • Associations of alcohol consumption with expression of CD44, CD24, and ALDH1A1 stem cell markers in benign breast biopsy samples
  • Breast cancer prevention by short-term inhibition of TGFβ signaling
  • Association of body mass index and inflammatory dietary pattern with breast cancer pathologic and genomic immunophenotype in the nurses’ health study
  • A genome-wide association study of mammographic texture variation

Angela Sardaro | Immunotherapy | Excellence in Research

Angela Sardaro | Immunotherapy | Excellence in Research

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Angela Sardaro at ASL Lecce, Italy.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Angela Sardaro is a distinguished Italian academic and medical professional specializing in Radiotherapy and Diagnostic Imaging. She has served as a professor at the University of Bari Aldo Moro, coordinating degree programs and teaching across multiple disciplines, including Radiology, Oncology, and Medical Imaging. With over 15 years of academic experience, she has guided numerous theses and led scientific seminars. Dr. Sardaro’s prolific research output includes 81 indexed publications, an h-index of 15, and 842 citations 📈. Her contributions extend globally, with collaborations in the UK and Italy, reinforcing her impact in oncology and radiological science.

Publication Profile 

scopus

Education

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Angela Sardaro has demonstrated outstanding commitment to medical education 👩‍⚕️📚, coordinating the Degree Course in Radiologic Imaging and Radiotherapy Techniques at the University of Bari Aldo Moro 🎓. With over 15 years of teaching experience across various undergraduate and postgraduate programs, she has taught core disciplines like Radiotherapy, Radiobiology, and Diagnostic Imaging 🧬🔬. Her academic service spans doctoral programs, master’s training in pain therapy, and prestigious collaborations with institutions in Florence and the UK 🇮🇹🇬🇧. Dr. Sardaro has delivered 1,440 hours of lectures and 4,160 hours of professional training 📊, shaping future generations in radiological sciences.

Experience

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Angela Sardaro has made a remarkable impact on clinical education and hands-on training in radiological sciences 👩‍⚕️🧲. She has guided radiologic technologists, medical students, and postgraduates through innovative programs that incorporate cutting-edge technologies like PET/CT, proton therapy, and radiogenomics 💡🧬. Her dedication to advancing clinical competence is evident in the numerous experimental and clinical theses completed under her mentorship 📖🎓. By blending theory with real-world application, she has nurtured a generation of professionals equipped to meet the evolving challenges of diagnostic imaging and radiation therapy.

Research Focus 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Angela Sardaro’s research focus lies at the intersection of oncologic radiotherapy, advanced diagnostic imaging, and radiation-induced toxicities 🎯🧲. Her work spans critical areas such as hypofractionated radiotherapy, prostate cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, breast cancer survivorship, and radiogenomics 📊🧬. She also investigates rare radiation-associated tumors like angiosarcomas, while leveraging cutting-edge tools like 18F-FCH PET/CT, MR imaging, and stereotactic radiosurgery 🧠🔬. Her systematic reviews and meta-analyses contribute to refining treatment protocols and improving patient outcomes 🩻👩‍⚕️. Dr. Sardaro’s impactful research bridges clinical innovation with evidence-based radiation oncology.

Publication Top Notes

  • Single-Dose Radiation Therapy for Localized Prostate Cancer: Where Does the Evidence Lead?
  • Nodal assessment and extranodal extension in head and neck squamous cell cancer: insights from computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging
  • Evidences on the Use of Hypofractionation in Postoperative/Salvage Radiotherapy for Prostate Cancer: Systematic Review of the Literature and Recent Developments
  • Long-Term Breast Cancer Risk in Hodgkin Lymphoma Survivors: Evaluating Background Parenchymal Enhancement and Radiotherapy-Induced Toxicity
  • Radiation-Associated Angiosarcoma of the Breast: The State of the Art of a Rare and Aggressive Disease
  • Radiosurgery in Grade II and III Meningiomas: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
  • Role of 18F-FCH PET/CT in Detecting Recurrences of Prostate Cancer After Curative Treatments

Sudeep Nagaraj | Immunotherapy | Best Researcher Award

Sudeep Nagaraj | Immunotherapy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sudeep Nagaraj, ICAR-NIVEDI, India

Dr. Sudeep Nagaraj is an accomplished molecular biologist and research scientist with a Ph.D. from GITAM University (2025) 🎓. He possesses extensive hands-on expertise in molecular genetics, cytogenetics, proteomics, virology, and phytochemistry 🧪🌿. With over six years of academic and research experience, he has served in various prestigious institutions including ICAR-NIVEDI and ICAR-IVRI 🏛️. Dr. Nagaraj has authored 20+ peer-reviewed publications on cytotoxicity, DNA barcoding, and viral epidemiology 📚. His primary research focus lies in virology and molecular diagnostics, especially lumpy skin disease in livestock 🐄🦠. He is known for blending academic rigor with applied research for public health impact 💡.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Sudeep Nagaraj holds a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology from GITAM University (2025) 🧬, an MSc from SDUAHER, Tamaka Kolar (2016) 🧪, and a BSc from FGC, KGF (2012) 📚. His academic journey began at Chinmaya Vidyalaya, Kolar (SSLC, 2007) and continued through BGS PU College (PUC, 2009) 🏫. Professionally, he has accumulated diverse experience across esteemed research institutions and labs, contributing significantly to molecular and virology research 🧫. Additionally, he has one year of teaching experience in Molecular Biology at SIMS and RC, where he taught undergraduate students with dedication and clarity 🎓🧑‍🏫.

Experience

oDr. Sudeep Nagaraj has amassed rich experience through roles such as SRF at ICAR-NIVEDI (2021–present) 🧬, Young Professional-II at ICAR-IVRI (2020–2021) 🧫, and Research Scientist at Cytogene Diagnostics (2019–2020) 🔬. His journey also includes positions at SIMS and RC, QTLomics, and IDBR. He taught Molecular Biology at SIMS and RC for a year at the UG level 🎓. His hands-on skills span molecular genetics (PCR, DNA isolation, HRM), proteomics (SDS-PAGE, Bradford assay), cytogenetics (karyotyping), gene cloning, cell culture, virology (ELISA, virus titration), and phytochemistry (plant extract prep) 🧬🌿🧫.

Awards

Dr. Sudeep Nagaraj has been honored with several prestigious awards for his outstanding contributions to scientific research and innovation 🧠🔬. He received the Young Scientist Award at the International Conference on Science, Health, and Engineering held in Chennai on January 11, 2020 🏆. In 2021, he was conferred the Best Researcher Award at the International Research Awards on New Science Inventions on August 11 in Chennai 🥇. Most recently, in 2025, he was recognized once again with a Young Scientist Award from Scientific Laurels, celebrating his continued excellence in research 🚀📚.

Research Focus

Dr. Sudeep Nagaraj’s research centers around molecular virology, cytogenetics, and immunology, with a significant emphasis on Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in livestock 🐄. His work extends to plant-based cytotoxicity, DNA barcoding, and cell culture techniques, reflecting a strong interdisciplinary foundation 🌿🧪. His studies explore pathogen-host interactions, viral evolution, and molecular diagnostics, contributing vital insights into disease spillovers and viral epidemiology across species 🧠🔍. He also focuses on PBMC assays, ELISA, and nanoparticle toxicity, bridging biomedicine, virology, and phytochemistry. His impactful contributions aid in zoonotic disease management and therapeutic development 📊💉🌾.

Publication Top Notes

Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in Yak (Bos grunniens): An Evidence of Species Spillover from Cattle in India

Evaluation of In Vitro Cytotoxic Effects of Three Medicinal Plants on Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMC)

First evidence of lumpy skin disease in mithun (Bos frontalis) in India

An in vitro cytotoxic and genotoxic properties of Allamanda cathartica L. Latex green NPs on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells

Unravelling the genomic origins of lumpy skin disease virus in recent outbreaks

Evaluation of HCP5 and Chemokine C receptor type 5 gene polymorphisms in Indian psoriatic patients

DNA based identification of species of Zingiberaceae family plants using Bar-Hrm analysis

A SIMPLE, COST­EFFECTIVE, FAST AND EASY TO ISOLATE DNA PROTOCOL FROM HUMAN SAMPLES

Investigation of Comorbidity and Risk Analysis During Lumpy Skin Disease Outbreaks in India

Evaluation of invitro cytotoxic activity of parts of Murraya koenigii (curry) plant on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells

Separation and Optimisation of a Sucrose Density Gradient Centrifugation Protocol for Isolation of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMC)

Fast and Easy Protocol of DNA Extraction from Fresh and Hard/Dried Plant Samples of Indian Spices

Konstantinos Tsapakidis | Immunotherapy | Excellence in Research

Konstantinos Tsapakidis | Immunotherapy | Excellence in Research

Assist. Prof. Dr. Konstantinos Tsapakidis, University Hospital Of Larissa, Greece

Assist. Prof. Dr. Konstantinos Tsapakidis 🎓👨‍⚕️ is an esteemed Medical Oncologist at the University of Thessaly, Greece. With a Ph.D. focused on prostate cancer research, he holds European Certification in Medical Oncology 🏅. Since 2018, he has been actively involved in clinical oncology, teaching postgraduate courses on cancer, diet, and immunotherapy 🍽️🧬. Dr. Tsapakidis has authored numerous impactful publications 📚, contributing significantly to cancer diagnostics and treatment. Passionate about education, he trains residents and nurses, advancing oncology knowledge. His expertise includes systemic antineoplastic therapies and immune-oncology 🌟.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Education

Assist. Prof. Dr. Konstantinos Tsapakidis 🎓 is a dedicated Medical Oncologist with an impressive educational background. He earned his Biology degree from Aristotelian University of Thessaloniki 🧬 (1998–2002) and completed his Medicine degree at the University of Thessaly 🏥 (2003–2007). Dr. Tsapakidis achieved his Ph.D. with excellence (2005–2012), researching prostate cancer’s cell-cycle and apoptosis mechanisms 🔬. He specialized in Medical Oncology in 2017 🎯 and obtained the prestigious European Certification in Medical Oncology in 2018 🏅. He also enhanced his expertise through an Immune-Oncology e-learning program at the University of Piraeus in 2017–2018 💻.

Experience

Assist. Prof. Dr. Konstantinos Tsapakidis 💼 has extensive medical oncology experience. Since February 2025, he serves as Assistant Professor at the University of Thessaly 🎓. From 2018 to 2025, he worked as Consultant in Medical Oncology at University Hospital of Larissa 🏥. Previously, he was a University Scholar and Fellow Consultant there (2017–2018) 👨‍⚕️. He completed his residency in Medical Oncology (2014–2017) and earlier trained in Internal Medicine and Hematology at Larissa hospitals 🩺. Between 2008–2009, he was a Scientific Associate in Medical Oncology, laying a strong foundation for his clinical career 🔬.

Research Focus

Assist. Prof. Dr. Konstantinos Tsapakidis’s research focus lies primarily in Medical Oncology with a strong emphasis on cancer diagnosis, treatment, and immunotherapy. 🧬🩺 His work explores various cancer types including lung cancer, breast cancer, sarcomas, and rare cancers, investigating immunotherapy responses, molecular diagnostics, and tumor behavior. 🔬💉 He is particularly involved in studying biomarkers like PD-1/PD-L1, immune cell profiling, and novel therapeutic approaches to improve patient outcomes. 🧪⚕️ His research also covers cancer-associated complications like thrombosis and metastatic disease. Overall, his contributions advance personalized oncology care and innovative cancer treatment strategies.

Publication Top Notes

Pseudomyxoma Peritonei: A Challenging Clinical Diagnosis. Case Report and Review of the Literature

The Impact of Expert Pathology Review and Molecular Diagnostics on the Management of Sarcoma Patients: A Prospective Study of the Hellenic Group of Sarcomas and Rare Cancers

Pre-Existing Immunity Predicts Response to First-Line Immunotherapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients

ES-SCLC Patients with PD-L1+ CTCs and High Percentages of CD8+PD-1+T Cells in Circulation Benefit from Front-Line Immunotherapy Treatment

Combinatorial analysis of CD4<SUP>+</SUP>Tregs and CD8<SUP>+</SUP>Teff to predict response to ICI in patients with ES-SCLC

Metachronous Single Pulmonary Metastasis of Prostate Cancer: Report of a Rare Case and Literature Review

SYNCHRONOUS DIAGNOSIS OF TESTICULAR AND THYROID CANCER IN A YOUNG MALE

A Proposed Nomogram Model for Recurrence of Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Carcinoma COMMENT

Metastatic rectal cancer in the ampulla of Vater: A unique case

Radiotherapy and Breast Reconstruction: What Is the Ideal Timing? A Narrative Review

Effects of a Novel Thiadiazole Derivative with High Anticancer Activity on Cancer Cell Immunogenic Markers: Mismatch Repair System, PD-L1 Expression, and Tumor Mutation Burden

Efthalia Zervoudi | Immunotherapy | Best Researcher Award

Efthalia Zervoudi | Immunotherapy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Efthalia Zervoudi, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, Greece

Dr. Efthalia Zervoudi is a senior researcher at the Hellenic Pasteur Institute with a PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Athens. Her research focuses on designing inhibitors targeting antigen-trimming aminopeptidases, contributing significantly to immunology and cancer biology. She has extensive experience in oncology and molecular biomarkers, having held positions at Cardiff University and University Hospital “Attikon.” Dr. Zervoudi has authored multiple influential publications and holds patents on aminopeptidase inhibitors. She has received prestigious fellowships, including the Welcome Trust ISSF fellowship, and continues to advance personalized medicine through innovative molecular diagnostic approaches.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

I completed my PhD in Biochemistry at the University of Athens (2012–2016) with top honors, focusing on designing inhibitors targeting antigen-trimming aminopeptidases. Before that, I earned my Master’s degree in Biochemistry from the same university (2010–2012), studying the specificity pockets of aminopeptidases involved in antigen processing. My academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Patras (2003–2008), where I researched proteoglycans in cancer patients under Prof. Dimitrios Vynios. 🎓 Prior to university, I graduated high school with a strong average score of 18.5/20, marking the start of my scientific path.

Experience

Dr. Efthalia Zervoudi is currently serving as a Senior Researcher at the Hellenic Pasteur Institute (2024–present), contributing to cutting-edge biomedical research. From 2019 to 2023, she was a Research Coordinator at the Oncology Unit of University Hospital “Attikon” in Greece. 🏥 Previously, she held a postdoctoral research position at Cardiff University’s School of Medicine (2016–2019), specializing in Infection and Immunity. 🔬 Between 2010 and 2015, she collaborated with the Protein Chemistry Lab at the National Centre for Scientific Research “DEMOKRITOS”, working on the project: “Rational design and development of inhibitors for targeting antigen-trimming aminopeptidases.”

Awards

Dr. Efthalia Zervoudi has received several prestigious fellowships and awards recognizing her impactful research. In 2020, she was awarded funding by the Hellenic Society of Oncology for her study on Endoplasmic Reticulum Associated Peptidases as tools to understand cancer. 🧪 In 2015, she received the esteemed Wellcome Trust ISSF Fellowship at Cardiff University. 🇬🇧 Earlier, in Fall 2014, the Hellenic Academy of Athens honored her with the “Axillea and Aikaterini Dionysopoulou” award for her groundbreaking work on rationally designed inhibitors enhancing antigen presentation and cytotoxic T-cell responses. 🔬🎖️ Her research continues to push scientific boundaries.

Research Focus

Dr. Efthalia Zervoudi is a leading researcher in immunology and molecular biology, with a focus on antigen processing, immune regulation, and aminopeptidase function. Her work explores how enzymes like ERAP1 and ERAP2 trim antigenic peptides for presentation by MHC class I molecules, enhancing cytotoxic T-cell responses—a crucial process in cancer immunotherapy and autoimmune disease research. 🧬 She also develops targeted inhibitors to modulate immune responses, contributing to vaccine design and tumor immunity. 🧪 Her research bridges biochemistry, structural biology, and immuno-oncology, with potential applications in personalized medicine.

Publication Top Notes

Rationally designed inhibitor targeting antigen-trimming aminopeptidases enhances antigen presentation and cytotoxic T-cell responses

Probing the S1 specificity pocket of the aminopeptidases that generate antigenic peptides

A common single nucleotide polymorphism in endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase 2 induces a specificity switch that leads to altered antigen processing

Optimized peptide–MHC multimer protocols for detection and isolation of autoimmune T-cells

A role for naturally occurring alleles of endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidases in tumor immunity and cancer pre-disposition

Autoimmune disease-associated variants of extracellular endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase 1 induce altered innate immune responses by human immune cells

3, 4-diaminobenzoic acid derivatives as inhibitors of the oxytocinase subfamily of M1 aminopeptidases with immune-regulating properties

Novel selective inhibitors of aminopeptidases that generate antigenic peptides

Dual molecular mechanisms govern escape at immunodominant HLA A2-restricted HIV epitope

A common SNP in ER aminopeptidase 2 induces a specificity switch that leads to altered antigen processing

HPV16 E6 Oncogene Contributes to Cancer Immune Evasion by Regulating PD-L1 Expression through a miR-143/HIF-1a Pathway

Correction: Konstantopoulos et al. HPV16 E6 Oncogene Contributes to Cancer Immune Evasion by Regulating PD-L1 Expression through a miR-143/HIF-1a Pathway. Viruses 2024, 16, 113

Dr. Annie Zhang|Immunotherapy|Best Researcher Award

Dr. Annie Zhang|Immunotherapy|Best Researcher Award

Dr. Annie Zhang at Cambridge,United States

PROFILE  

 

Scopus

Dr. Annie Zhang embarked on her academic journey with a strong foundation in medicine and public health, earning an MD and an MPH. Her dual degrees equipped her with a nuanced understanding of clinical medicine and the critical public health frameworks essential for managing and preventing diseases at both population and individual levels. Driven by a commitment to advancing therapeutic options and improving patient outcomes, she honed her knowledge in both biostatistics and epidemiology. These skills have been foundational throughout her career, particularly in her roles focused on evidence generation and clinical research.

🌟 Professional Endeavors

Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Zhang has held senior roles at prominent pharmaceutical companies, demonstrating her expertise in medical affairs, clinical research, and strategic evidence generation.

  1. Sanofi, Cambridge, MA
    As the Global Senior Medical Director in Immunology & Dermatology since 2018, Dr. Zhang has led impactful initiatives in Medical Evidence Generation within Global Medical Affairs. Her key achievements include winning Sanofi’s “Best of Best” award in 2023 and receiving a 1st Place Poster award at the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) conference in 2024 for her work’s scientific importance. Her leadership has propelled Sanofi’s immunology initiatives, particularly through studies such as PEDISTAD and INFANTSTAD, which focus on disease modification and prevention of the atopic march.
  2. Apellis, Waltham, MA
    In her tenure as Medical Director at Apellis from January 2017 to December 2017, Dr. Zhang was responsible for strategic planning and clinical development in hematology, overseeing Phase II and III studies in conditions such as paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) and autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA). Her role included extensive interaction with thought leaders and the clinical team to design and optimize trial strategies.
  3. Biogen, Cambridge, MA
    From 2009 to 2016, Dr. Zhang held several pivotal roles at Biogen, advancing from Medical Director in Global Medical Affairs to leading biostatistical teams for key drug programs like Tecfidera. She worked on Tysabri’s lifecycle management, supporting clinical trial design, data generation, and publication strategies, especially in multiple sclerosis (MS). Her expertise in biostatistics and clinical research design strengthened Biogen’s data-driven approaches, particularly in Phase III and IV clinical trials.
  4. PAREXEL International, Lowell, MA
    Dr. Zhang worked as a Senior Biostatistician at PAREXEL from 2007 to 2009, leading biostatistical tasks across diverse therapeutic areas, including oncology, CNS disorders, and cardiovascular disease. Her meticulous approach ensured the quality and accuracy of statistical reports for clinical trials, contributing to numerous successful projects within the biostatistics team.
  5. New England Research Institutes, Watertown, MA
    Early in her career, Dr. Zhang served as an Associate Research Scientist at NERI from 2000 to 2007, where she conducted critical statistical analyses for clinical research, laying the groundwork for her later expertise in biostatistics and clinical study design.

💡 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Zhang’s research has centered around dermatology, immunology, and hematology. At Sanofi, her work in immunology has led to groundbreaking insights on skin barrier integrity and neuroimmune function, providing essential evidence for the prevention of atopic march. She has also driven significant advancements in real-world evidence generation, particularly in cross-functional collaboration with global market access and regulatory teams, demonstrating her strategic alignment with organizational goals and patient needs.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Zhang’s achievements have earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious “Best of Best” award at Sanofi in 2023. In addition, she received 1st Place at the AAD 2024 Poster Award for her study on skin barrier health. Her work has also made her one of the most-read and cited authors in Allergy and Pediatric Dermatology in 2024, underscoring her impact and visibility in her field.

🌐 Impact and Influence

Through her extensive collaborations, Dr. Zhang has influenced clinical practices and regulatory frameworks worldwide. Her involvement in key study proposals and evidence generation initiatives has significantly impacted the medical community’s understanding of dermatological conditions. Her efforts in strategic planning, data generation, and cross-functional teamwork have positioned her as an influential figure in dermatology and immunology, particularly in advancing therapies that meet rigorous safety and efficacy standards.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Zhang’s legacy lies in her innovative approach to medical evidence generation and her unwavering commitment to patient-centered research. Her leadership in studies such as PEDISTAD and INFANTSTAD has set new standards for clinical research in dermatology and immunology. As she continues her work at Sanofi, Dr. Zhang’s contributions promise to expand the understanding and treatment of complex immunological conditions, impacting healthcare practices on a global scale.

Through her career, Dr. Zhang has exemplified excellence, dedication, and a strategic vision, ensuring her place as a respected leader in the pharmaceutical and clinical research sectors. Her ongoing work will undoubtedly continue to shape medical innovations and patient care improvements, leaving a lasting legacy in the fields of immunology and dermatology.

🎓Publication 

Efficacy and Tolerability of Delayed-release Dimethyl Fumarate in Black, Hispanic, and Asian Patients with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: Post Hoc Integrated Analysis of DEFINE and CONFIRM

  • Authors   :Fox, R.J., Gold, R., Phillips, J.T., Zhang, A., Marantz, J.L.
  • Journal    :Neurology and Therapy
  • Year         :2017

Number Needed to Treat in Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Trials

  • Authors   : Okwuokenye, M., Zhang, A., Pace, A., Peace, K.E.
  • Journal    :Neurology and Therapy
  • Year         :2017

Comparative effectiveness using a matching-adjusted indirect comparison between delayed-release dimethyl fumarate and fingolimod for the treatment of multiple sclerosis

  • Authors   : Fox, R.J., Chan, A., Zhang, A., Edwards, M.R., Marantz, J.L
  • Journal    :Current Medical Research and Opinion
  • Year         :2017

Sustained Effect of Delayed-Release Dimethyl Fumarate in Newly Diagnosed Patients with Relapsing–Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: 6-Year Interim Results From an Extension of the DEFINE and CONFIRM Studies

  • Authors   :Gold, R., Giovannoni, G., Phillips, J.T., Zhang, A., Marantz, J.L.
  • Journal    :Neurology and Therapy
  • Year         :2016

Comparative efficacy of first-line natalizumab vs IFN-β or glatiramer acetate in relapsing MS

  • Authors   :Spelman, T., Kalincik, T., Jokubaitis, V., Trojano, M., Butzkueven, H.
  • Journal    :Neurology: Clinical Practice
  • Year         :2016