Zefeng Lai | Drug Delivery Systems | Excellence in Pharmaceutical Innovation Award

Prof. Dr. Zefeng Lai | Drug Delivery Systems | Excellence in Pharmaceutical Innovation Award

Guangxi Medical University | China

Prof. Dr. Zefeng Lai is a leading figure in the field of pharmaceutical science, recognized for his pioneering work in nanomedicine, drug delivery, and nanotoxicology. He serves as a Professor of Pharmaceutical Science at the School of Pharmacy, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China, where he has made outstanding contributions to biomedical research and academic development. Having earned his BSc and PhD from the State Key Laboratory of Crystal Materials, Shandong University, and completed postdoctoral research in Drug Delivery and Biomedical Effects of Nanomaterials, Dr. Lai’s expertise integrates material chemistry with pharmacological innovation to enhance therapeutic outcomes.His research explores the mechanisms and biomedical applications of carbon-based nanodrug carriers, focusing on their transcytosis, biodistribution, and immunological effects. He has led multiple high-impact national and provincial projects, including investigations into mesona chinensis polysaccharides, fibrinolytic enzymes from marine sources, and liver-targeted nanocarriers. His work on the biotoxicity of carboxylated single-walled carbon nanotubes using zebrafish and mammalian models has been particularly influential, advancing the global understanding of nanomaterial safety in pharmaceutical formulations.Prof. Lai’s scholarly influence is reflected in his strong research metrics, with 293 citations across 279 documents, based on 19 published papers, and an impressive h-index of 10, demonstrating his consistent impact and the recognition of his contributions by the global scientific community.His groundbreaking publications demonstrate his multidisciplinary research vision. His paper Photothermal Therapeutic Gold Nanoparticles Loaded with PD-L1 siRNA Enhanced Killing of NSCLC Cells by Immune Cells presents a novel nanoplatform integrating photothermal therapy and immunomodulation for non-small cell lung cancer treatment. His work Immunogenic Nano-Phthalocyanine Enables Oxygen-Economic Photodynamic Therapy for Hepatocellular Carcinoma introduces a new generation of oxygen-efficient nanotherapeutics for liver cancer. Other notable studies include Effect of Carboxylated Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes on the Development and Morphology of Zebrafish Embryos, High Throughput CircRNA Sequencing Analysis Reveals Novel Insights into the Mechanism of Nitidine Chloride against Hepatocellular Carcinoma, and Toxic Effect of Long-Term Intravenous Injection of Carboxylated Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes on Kidney in Rats. His research on Nitidine Chloride Induced Colorectal Cancer HT29 Cells Apoptosis Through the Cytochrome c-Mediated Mitochondrial Pathways and Long-Term Intravenous Administration of Carboxylated Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Induces Persistent Accumulation in the Lungs and Pulmonary Fibrosis via the NF-κB Pathway underscores his deep engagement with molecular pharmacology and nanotoxicology.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Lai, Z., Liu, Y., He, L., Wang, X., Zhang, H., & Zhao, J. (2023). Immunogenic nano-phthalocyanine enables oxygen-economic photodynamic therapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. Biomaterials, 295, 121992.

Hui Li | Drug Delivery Systems | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Hui Li | Drug Delivery Systems | Best Researcher Award

Woosuk University | South Korea

Dr. Hui Li is a distinguished medical scientist and otolaryngologist whose work bridges clinical medicine, translational research, and pharmaceutical innovation. He earned his Ph.D. in Translational Medicine from Seoul National University College of Medicine in Korea, where his research focused on the molecular mechanisms underlying hearing loss and radiation-induced cellular changes. Prior to his doctoral training, he completed both his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Clinical Medicine from Yanbian University of Medicine in China, establishing a strong foundation in clinical diagnostics, therapeutic approaches, and patient-centered medical care.Dr. Li’s professional journey reflects an impressive progression from clinical expertise to cutting-edge biomedical research. He began his career as a medical doctor and otolaryngologist at Yanbian Yongjeong National Hospital, where he honed his clinical acumen in diagnosing and treating ear, nose, and throat disorders. His clinical excellence led him to serve as a resident and research fellow in the Department of Otolaryngology at the Affiliated Hospital of Yanbian University of Medicine, where he began integrating research into his clinical practice. He later worked as a specialist at the Yanbian National Ophthalmology & Otolaryngology Hospital, focusing on complex cases of auditory and vestibular dysfunction. These formative years in medical practice equipped him with invaluable clinical insight that continues to inform his research in translational medicine and pharmacotherapeutics.Dr. Li transitioned into academic research with his appointment as a doctoral researcher at the Department of Translational Medicine (Otolaryngology) at Seoul National University College of Medicine. There, he conducted pivotal studies on novel therapeutic delivery systems, inner ear protection mechanisms, and the molecular pathways involved in hearing impairment. His research excellence earned him postdoctoral appointments at the Cancer Research Institute within the same university, where he explored immune-modulatory effects of radiotherapy and the potential of macrophage polarization in mitigating cancer progression. Currently, he serves as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics, Industry-Academia Cooperation Foundation, Woosuk University, Korea, where he investigates advanced drug formulations, biopharmaceutical delivery mechanisms, and the translational potential of controlled-release therapeutics.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Li, J., Wang, H., Zhang, Y., & Chen, L. (2022). Comprehensive intervention and effect of martial arts routines on children with autism. Journal of Environmental and Public Health, 2022.

Teodora-Eliana Petcov | Drug Delivery Systems | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Teodora-Eliana Petcov | Drug Delivery Systems | Best Researcher Award

Teodora-Eliana Petcov at National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest | Romania

Teodora Eliana Petcov is a driven biomedical researcher with a strong foundation in biomaterials, molecular biology, and nanotechnology. Passionate about innovation in drug delivery and regenerative medicine, she has already co-authored scientific publications in reputed journals. Her international internships, multidisciplinary skills, and involvement in EU-funded research projects underscore her commitment to advancing medical technologies. Teodora balances research excellence with volunteer leadership, contributing to both academic and community-driven initiatives. With a sharp analytical mind, hands-on lab experience, and cross-cultural exposure, she exemplifies the next generation of biomedical scientists focused on improving patient care through science and innovation.

Publication Profile 

Scopus

Education

Teodora holds a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Engineering from the Polytechnic University of Bucharest  with a focus on biomaterials and medical devices. She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Biocompatible Substances, Materials, and Systems at the National University of Science and Technology POLITEHNICA Bucharest. Her thesis explored the internalization of nano-sized devices in biological structures. She was a visiting student at “Horia Hulubei” Nuclear Institute and Floreasca Emergency Hospital. Her academic path is complemented by certifications in English  and psycho-pedagogical training, showcasing both technical expertise and educational versatility.

Experience 

Teodora has completed multiple research internships, including roles in molecular biology and materials science labs. She gained practical expertise in 3D bioprinting, SEM techniques, SolidWorks, and conducted advanced testing like DSC and DMA. She has contributed to projects at the National Institute of Physics and Nuclear Engineering, University of Campania in Italy, and worked on PNRR-funded research on bone regeneration and multiple myeloma. Additionally, she has volunteered extensively in cultural and scientific event organization, holding assistant coordinator roles in Zenezia and MED, where she honed human resources, leadership, and scientific communication skills.

Awards  

Teodora has been recognized for her academic excellence and community involvement from high school through higher education. She received top honors for her Bachelor’s thesis, was selected for the prestigious ROSE program, and presented at the “Info-Practic” National Symposium on artificial intelligence. She participated in EU-supported initiatives like ERASMUS+ “Be a Buddy, Not a Bully” and contributed to major national projects, including the ongoing PNRR-funded research on personalized bone regeneration. Her work on cutting-edge nanostructures and her leadership in volunteer networks demonstrate her well-rounded excellence and dedication to scientific and societal progress.

Research Focus 

Teodora focuses on biomedical applications of nanotechnology, with a keen interest in targeted drug delivery, biopolymeric material synthesis, and regenerative medicine. Her Master’s research and publications revolve around understanding how nanostructures interact with cellular systems to improve treatment precision in diseases like multiple myeloma. She also explores the use of 3D printed biomaterials and advanced materials characterization techniques (SEM, DSC, DMA). Her interdisciplinary research combines materials science, molecular biology, and bioengineering to design patient-specific, low-toxicity solutions, positioning her at the frontier of precision and personalized medicine.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Nanostructures: An Efficient Drug Delivery Platform for Therapy of Multiple Myeloma
Year: 2025

Conclusion

Teodora Eliana Petcov is a highly promising emerging researcher whose interdisciplinary approach, early scientific contributions, and strong practical expertise align closely with the vision of the Best Researcher Award. Her dedication to innovation in biomaterials, nanotechnology, and regenerative medicine showcases both depth and futuristic relevance.