Matlou Mokgotho | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at Sefako Makgatho Health Science University | South Africa

Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho is a distinguished biochemist and academic leader with over two decades of experience in higher education, research, and community development. Currently a Senior Lecturer at Tshwane University of Technology, he has previously served as Professor and Head of Department of Biochemistry at the University of Limpopo. His expertise spans molecular biology, proteomics, bioenergetics, enzymology, and mammalian cell cultures. Beyond academia, Dr. Mokgotho has actively contributed to community health awareness initiatives, youth leadership, and ethical oversight in research and professional bodies. His leadership, research excellence, and dedication to mentorship continue to inspire future scientists in South Africa.

Publication Profile 

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Education 

Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Biochemistry from the University of Limpopo, conferred. He earned his Master of Science in Biochemistry his Bachelor of Science Honours in Biochemistry  both from the University of the North. He also completed a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Microbiology at the same institution. His academic foundation was laid at Seshigo High School, where he obtained his Senior Certificate. This strong educational background provided him with the knowledge and skills to excel in biochemical sciences and academic leadership.

Experience 

Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho career spans roles from tutor to senior lecturer, professor, and department head. He began lecturing in Biochemistry at the University of the North before joining the University of Limpopo, where he advanced to Professor and Head of Department. His teaching portfolio covers biochemistry, molecular biology, proteomics, cell culture, and bioenergetics. He also served as CEO of Milestevens Development and Properties, showcasing leadership in management. Currently, he is Senior Lecturer at Tshwane University of Technology and a module critical reader at UNISA. His responsibilities include teaching, research coordination, and academic mentorship.

Awards and Honors 

Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho has been recognized for his academic, community, and leadership contributions. He received certificates for AIDS Awareness campaigns and laboratory assistance during his early career, highlighting his dedication to education and health promotion. His leadership in youth and church organizations earned him certificates of moral leadership and community service, while his active role in HIV/AIDS awareness workshops reflected his commitment to social impact. As a council member of the South African Dental Technician Council, he contributed to professional ethics and governance. These accolades underscore his commitment to advancing science, leadership, and community development.

Research Focus 

Prof. Dr. Matlou Mokgotho research focuses on biochemistry, molecular biology, and proteomics, with a special interest in bioenergetics, protein structure-function relationships, and mammalian cell cultures. His work bridges fundamental and applied science, exploring enzymology, molecular mechanisms, and the applications of cell cultures in medical research. He has also contributed to developing experimental methodologies and training students in proposal writing, research principles, and dissertation development. His commitment to advancing biochemistry is reflected in his integration of teaching, research, and community engagement, with a strong emphasis on preparing students for careers in molecular science and addressing health challenges through biotechnological approaches.

Publication Top Notes

Xiao Sheng | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiao Sheng | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

lecturer at Naval Medical University School of Pharmacy | China

Dr. Xiao Sheng is a distinguished researcher in biochemistry and molecular biology at the Navy Medical University, China. His work bridges traditional Chinese medicine, molecular signaling, and intestinal health, with a focus on aging and regenerative biology. As a principal investigator of multiple funded projects, he has made significant contributions to understanding mechanisms of intestinal stem cell regulation, tumor progression, and herbal medicine efficacy. His publications in high-impact journals highlight pioneering findings in antioxidant pathways, stem cell biology, and gut regeneration. Dr. Xiao is actively engaged in international collaborations, scientific societies, and editorial responsibilities in biomedical research.

Publication Profile 

Orcid

Education 

Dr. Xiao Sheng completed his academic training in biochemistry and molecular biology, developing a strong foundation in cellular and molecular research. At the Navy Medical University, he pursued advanced education integrating biomedical sciences with translational research approaches. His education emphasized experimental medicine, molecular signaling pathways, and the application of traditional Chinese medicine concepts within modern biological frameworks. This interdisciplinary training enabled him to explore the interaction between cellular metabolism, intestinal regeneration, and aging biology. His academic preparation laid the groundwork for his later success as a principal investigator and contributed to his leadership in national and international scientific initiatives.

Experience 

Dr. Xiao Sheng  has extensive experience leading research in biochemistry, molecular biology, and translational medicine. As principal investigator, he heads projects supported by Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center and the Second Military Medical University, focusing on intestinal injury repair, tumor biology, and herbal medicine. His work extends to national research initiatives such as the National Key R&D Program and the National Natural Science Foundation of China, where he has contributed as a key participant. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, serves on editorial boards, and holds active memberships in professional committees, advancing biomedical research and international scientific collaboration.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Xiao Sheng has received multiple recognitions for his scientific contributions. He earned the Outstanding Poster Award at the International and Chinese Drosophila Biology Congress, demonstrating the novelty of his research in model organisms. His innovative approaches to Chinese medicine research were honored with the Third Prize in the Traditional Chinese Medicine Group at the National Undergraduate Forum on Innovative Research in Basic Medicine and Experimental Design. Recently, he was named a “Shizhen Scholar,” reflecting his leadership and excellence in integrating traditional medicine with modern molecular biology. These awards underscore his contributions to translational and interdisciplinary biomedical research.

Research Focus 

Dr. Xiao’s  Sheng  research centers on molecular mechanisms regulating intestinal stem cell biology, aging, and regenerative medicine. He explores how herbal medicine compounds influence cellular pathways, particularly the Keap1–Nrf2 signaling axis, to mitigate intestinal injury and aging-related disorders. His studies extend to tumor biology, focusing on how nuclear lamina proteins drive cancer development through cell competition. Additionally, he investigates molecular regulators of gut regeneration, including transcription factors and RNA modifications. His interdisciplinary approach combines traditional Chinese medicine with modern molecular biology, advancing novel therapeutic strategies. His work holds promise for improving treatments for age-related diseases and metabolic disorders.

Publication Top Notes

Unlocking nature’s medicine cabinet through Drosophila–Driven exploration

Werner syndrome exonuclease promotes gut regeneration and causes age-associated gut hyperplasia in Drosophila

Phase separation of BuGZ regulates gut regeneration and aging through interaction with m6A regulators

Antioxidant Effects of Caffeic Acid Lead to Protection of Drosophila Intestinal Stem Cell Aging

Aging-related upregulation of the homeobox gene caudal represses intestinal stem cell differentiation in Drosophila

Gaetan Ligat | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gaetan Ligat | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gaetan Ligat at Toulouse University | France

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gaetan Ligat is a molecular virologist and principal investigator at Toulouse University, affiliated with INSERM UMR1291 and CNRS UMR5051. He leads the ViNeDys team at the Toulouse Institute for Infectious and Inflammatory Diseases, focusing on host–human cytomegalovirus interactions in brain tumors and therapeutic innovation. With extensive research and teaching experience across France, he has contributed to advancing antiviral strategies, mentoring young scientists, and promoting scientific communication. He is actively engaged in international collaborations, scientific societies, and community outreach, while securing multiple research grants to strengthen translational virology and oncology research.

Publication Profile 

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Education 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gaetan Ligat pursued his scientific training at Limoges University, France. He earned a Master of Science degree in Genetics and Physiology, which laid the foundation for his research career. He then advanced to doctoral studies at INSERM UMR1092, Limoges University, where he specialized in Molecular Virology, completing his PhD with distinction. His academic formation emphasized molecular biology, virus-host interactions, and translational virology, providing expertise in genetics, physiology, and applied biomedical sciences. This strong educational background enabled him to develop a career bridging fundamental research and therapeutic applications, particularly in virology, cancer biology, and innovative antiviral treatment strategies.

Experience 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gaetan Ligat is Associate Professor of Virology at Toulouse University, where he also serves as Principal Investigator and group leader of the ViNeDys team at the Infinity Institute. His work focuses on host–HCMV interactions and therapeutic innovation in brain tumors. Previously, he was a postdoctoral researcher at INSERM UMR1110 in Strasbourg, specializing in antiviral strategies. He began his research as a Master’s and PhD candidate at INSERM UMR1092, Limoges. Alongside research, he has coordinated training programs, practical courses, and supervised over 20 students. He is deeply involved in scientific societies, equality initiatives, and international collaborations.

Awards and Honors 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gaetan Ligat has received numerous prestigious recognitions, including the National Thesis Prize from the French Society of Microbiology and fellowships from the French National Agency for Research on AIDS and Viral Hepatitis (ANRS). He was awarded an ESCMID Research Grant, travel grants from the French Society of Microbiology, and registration bursaries for international congresses. His successful fundraising as principal investigator includes support from cancer foundations, patient associations, and Inserm/Regional PhD funding. These honors reflect both his scientific excellence and commitment to translational virology and oncology research. His awards highlight his impact on advancing antiviral and therapeutic research.

Research Focus 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gaetan Ligat research focuses on the molecular biology of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and its interaction with host cells, particularly in brain tumor environments. His work aims to understand how viral mechanisms contribute to disease progression and to identify novel therapeutic targets. He develops innovative antiviral strategies, including peptides and antibodies targeting HCMV protein interactions. His research also explores inflammatory responses, host-pathogen dynamics, and translational approaches for cancer treatment. Through collaborative projects and funded research programs, he seeks to bridge fundamental virology with therapeutic innovation, advancing the fight against viral infections and HCMV-related diseases in oncology.

Publication Top Notes

The human cytomegalovirus terminase complex as an antiviral target: a close-up view

Capsid assembly modulators as antiviral agents against HBV: molecular mechanisms and clinical perspectives

Hepatitis C virus (HCV)–apolipoprotein interactions and immune evasion and their impact on HCV vaccine design

Hepatitis B virus–host interactions and novel targets for viral cure

Hepatitis B virus core variants, liver fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma

Targeting viral cccDNA for cure of chronic hepatitis B

The Yin and the Yang of extracellular vesicles during viral infections

Structures and divergent mechanisms in capsid maturation and stabilization following genome packaging of human cytomegalovirus and herpesviruses

Contrasting effect of new HCMV pUL54 mutations on antiviral drug susceptibility: benefits and limits of 3D analysis

Interferon‐Induced Transmembrane Proteins Mediate Viral Evasion in Acute and Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection

Identification of a short sequence in the HCMV terminase pUL56 essential for interaction with pUL89 subunit

Identification of amino acids essential for viral replication in the HCMV helicase-primase complex

Wai Har Ng | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Wai Har Ng | Drug Discovery and Development | Best Researcher Award

Senior Research Associate at National Cancer Centre Singapore | Singapore

Ms. Wai Har Ng is a Senior Research Associate at the National Cancer Centre Singapore with over two decades of experience in cancer biology and translational research. His scientific journey spans genetic engineering, molecular oncology, and personalized therapeutics, with a strong focus on hepatocellular carcinoma, peritoneal carcinomatosis, and colorectal cancer. A dynamic contributor to national research consortiums, Ng WH has authored numerous high-impact publications and excels in molecular, cellular, and in vivo experimental platforms. Known for his collaborative spirit, he plays a pivotal role in mentoring, protocol development, and driving clinical translation in cancer therapy through precision medicine and molecular marker discovery.

Publication Profile 

Scopus

Education

Ms. Wai Har Ng obtained a Master of Science in Genetic Engineering from University Putra Malaysia (2005), where his dissertation focused on gene expression profiling of oil palm root systems using EST and microarray technology. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology (2000) from the same university, working on Arabidopsis root transformation. His foundational education was completed at Chong Hwa Independent High School, Kuala Lumpur, from 1990–2000, with certifications including STPM, SPM, and SRP. His early academic training at SRJK (C) Tsun Jin laid the groundwork for a career defined by scientific curiosity, discipline, and innovation in molecular biosciences.

Experience 

Ms. Wai Har Ng currently serves as a Senior Research Associate at the National Cancer Centre Singapore (2017–present), where he spearheads research on molecular therapeutics and biomarker discovery. He previously worked as a Research Officer and Research Associate at the same institute (2004–2017), contributing to groundbreaking oncology studies. Earlier, he served at the Malaysian Agricultural Research & Development Institute (MARDI) from 2003–2004. His academic skillset spans molecular biology, proteomics, imaging, animal studies, and lab management. Proficient in BSL2 safety, grant collaboration, and multidisciplinary research, he plays a key role in mentoring, lab operations, and translational biomedical research.

Awards 

While specific awards were not listed, Ng WH’s achievements are evident through his prolific publication record in high-impact journals, participation in national research consortia like the Singapore Peritoneal Oncology Study (SPOS) and Singapore Gastric Cancer Consortium (SGCC), and recognition as a core contributor to precision oncology research. His co-authorship on influential studies in Scientific Reports, Cell Reports Medicine, and International Journal of Molecular Sciences demonstrates academic recognition and leadership. His technical versatility and mentorship roles further highlight his contribution to national cancer research excellence. If formal awards were earned, these would further bolster his already commendable profile.

Research Focus 

Ng WH focuses on translational cancer research with emphasis on hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal cancer, peritoneal carcinomatosis, and liposarcoma. His work integrates drug synergy, molecular profiling, biomarker discovery, and machine learning to optimize personalized cancer therapies. He is proficient in CRISPR, ddPCR, organoid modeling, xenografts, and immunofluorescence microscopy. A key area includes developing predictive molecular signatures for chemotherapy response and leveraging advanced imaging to study tumor behavior. With over 13 peer-reviewed publications, Ng WH bridges basic science and clinical application, contributing to a future where cancer treatment is personalized, precise, and highly effective.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Vinorelbine Improves the Efficacy of Sorafenib against Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Promising Therapeutic Approach
Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Year: 2024
Citations: 5

Title: Everolimus Acts in Synergy with Vinorelbine to Suppress the Growth of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
Year: 2024
Citations: 4

Conclusion

Ms. Wai Har Ng is a highly competent and experienced researcher whose scientific contributions have advanced the field of cancer biology and therapeutics. Her technical mastery, consistent publication output, and collaborative involvement with national research consortia highlight her as a valuable asset to the research community. With increased visibility through leadership roles in publications and funding acquisition, she would stand out even more prominently. She is a strong and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given her sustained excellence, innovation, and impact in translational cancer research.

Alexis LeVee | Oncology Pharmaceuticals | Best Researcher Award

Alexis LeVee | Oncology Pharmaceuticals | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Alexis LeVee at UCLA, United States.

Dr. A. LeVee is a physician-scientist specializing in medical oncology with a focus on breast cancer and translational immunotherapy. Currently a Clinical Instructor at UCLA and a Hematology/Oncology Fellow at City of Hope, Dr. LeVee combines clinical expertise with cutting-edge research in tumor immunology, the microbiome, and novel therapeutic biomarkers. A graduate of Duke University and Tufts Medical School, they are a recipient of multiple national awards, including the ASCO Conquer Cancer Young Investigator Award. With over 10 peer-reviewed publications and leadership in high-impact studies, Dr. LeVee is shaping the future of personalized cancer care and precision immunotherapy.

Publication Profile 

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Education

Dr. LeVee earned a B.A. in Chemistry with minors in Economics and Biology from Duke University (2013) 🧪, followed by an M.D. from Tufts University School of Medicine (2019) 🩺. They completed an Internal Medicine residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center (2019–2022) and are currently completing a Hematology/Medical Oncology Fellowship at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center (2022–2025) 🧠. Their diverse training spans top-tier academic institutions and reflects a deep foundation in both clinical medicine and biomedical sciences, equipping them with the tools to integrate research and practice in complex oncology care.

Experience

Dr. LeVee currently serves as Clinical Instructor at UCLA (2025–Present) and Chief Fellow at City of Hope (2023–Present) in the Hematology/Medical Oncology Fellowship Program. Previously, they worked as a Business Analyst at Orange Advisory Group (2013–2015), combining data-driven insight with clinical research. Dr. LeVee has held numerous leadership and committee roles at Cedars-Sinai and City of Hope, contributing to medical education and institutional quality improvement. Their multidisciplinary background and academic leadership experience reflect a strong trajectory toward becoming a leader in translational oncology and academic medicine.

Awards 

Dr. LeVee has earned multiple prestigious awards, including the Young Investigator Award from ASCO, Conquer Cancer Foundation, and MOASC 🏆. Additional accolades include the Coltman Scholar Award and Early Investigator Award from the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (2024), the ASCO Merit Award (2024), and finalist status for the Rubenstein Award for Resident Research (2022). Earlier honors include fellowships from Tufts, American Thoracic Society, and DukeEngage. These awards reflect their innovative research and impact in oncology, particularly in microbiome science, breast cancer immunotherapy, and biomarker discovery.

Research Focus 

Dr. LeVee’s research bridges clinical oncology and translational science, focusing on breast cancer, tumor microenvironment, and immunotherapy 🧬. Their work investigates how microbiota, immune signatures, and biomarkers predict treatment response in triple-negative and HER2+ breast cancers. With funding from ASCO, Biocodex, and City of Hope, Dr. LeVee leads multiple studies analyzing metagenomic and metatranscriptomic profiles of fecal microbiota in patients receiving chemoimmunotherapy. They also explore the cardiotoxic effects of cancer therapies and immuno-radiation synergy. Their goal is to develop precision tools that enhance treatment personalization and patient outcomes in cancer care.

Publication Top Notes