Mohamad-Reza Aghanoori | Neurodegenerative Disorders | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mohamad-Reza Aghanoori | Neurodegenerative Disorders | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohamad-Reza Aghanoori, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology,  Iran.

Dr. Mohamad-Reza Aghanouri is a distinguished neuroscientist and molecular medicine expert whose academic journey spans Iran and Canada. Beginning with foundational training in genetics and human biology, he has advanced into a dynamic career focused on translational neuroscience, particularly the genetic regulation of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders. His doctoral and postdoctoral research have contributed significant insights into insulin/IGF-1 signaling, mitochondrial function, and gene expression related to autism and diabetic neuropathy.

Profile

Google Scholar

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Mohamad-Reza Aghanouri embarked on his academic journey with a B.Sc. in Cellular and Molecular Biology–Genetics from Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Iran, in 2009. His keen interest in the intricate mechanics of human biology led him to pursue an M.Sc. in Human Genetics at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, where he explored non-invasive techniques for early sex determination through free fetal DNA analysis. His growing passion for neuroscience and genetics culminated in a Ph.D. from the University of Manitoba, Canada, where he studied at the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics and the Division of Neurodegenerative Disorders. His doctoral thesis, focused on insulin/IGF-1 regulation of mitochondrial function in diabetic neuropathy, laid a strong foundation for a dynamic career in translational neurogenetics.

🧬 Professional Endeavors in Translational Neuroscience

Dr. Aghanouri’s postdoctoral work reflects a robust engagement with translational neuroscience and molecular medicine. From 2019 to 2024, he served as a postdoctoral fellow at the Department of Medical Genetics, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, under the mentorship of Dr. Guang Yang. His research investigated translational regulation of genes implicated in brain development, especially in autism spectrum disorders and rare neurodevelopmental conditions. Prior to that, he worked with Prof. Paul Fernyhough in Winnipeg, Canada, where he examined the role of IGF-1 in ATP production in sensory neurons under diabetic stress conditions. His diverse experience also includes a pivotal R&D advisory role at Roya Bio Gene Company in Tehran, showcasing his versatility across both academic and industrial biosciences.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Aghanouri’s research contributions bridge the realms of neurodevelopment, metabolism, and genetic regulation. He has delved into the complex interplay between growth factors like IGF-1 and mitochondrial dynamics, particularly in relation to diabetic neuropathy. At the University of Calgary, his postdoctoral investigations explored the molecular pathways influencing neurodevelopmental disorders, positioning his work at the intersection of genomics and neuroscience. His methodological expertise spans cellular models, gene expression analysis, and translational bioinformatics, underscoring a commitment to discovering mechanisms that translate molecular findings into therapeutic insights.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Over the course of his academic and research career, Dr. Aghanouri has amassed a commendable list of honors. He received the prestigious CIHR postdoctoral fellowship (CA$40,000 annually, plus research allowance), along with additional fellowships from the Alberta Children’s Hospital Research Institute and the Cumming School of Medicine. Notably, he clinched first place in the Striking Image Competition at the University of Calgary and was honored by the BoniadMelliNokhbegan Foundation for his exceptional research talent. He has also earned multiple research grants from Iranian institutions in 2023 and 2024, reflecting his cross-border research impact and trust among funding bodies.

📚 Institutional Leadership and Influence

In 2024, Dr. Aghanouri was appointed as the Head of the Library, Documentation, Scientometrics, and Publication Center at the National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB) in Tehran. He also holds a faculty position in the Department of Molecular Medicine at NIGEB. These roles position him as a key academic leader in Iran’s scientific community, where he not only continues his research but also shapes institutional research strategies, publication ethics, and scientific communication infrastructures. His work contributes significantly to Iran’s national bioscience and health research priorities.

🌍 Impact and Global Engagement

With academic roots in Iran and a decade of research training in Canada, Dr. Aghanouri exemplifies international scientific collaboration. His work addresses global health concerns, such as diabetes-induced neuropathies and neurodevelopmental disorders like autism, thus resonating with both clinical and scientific audiences worldwide. Through his active participation in conferences, poster competitions, and collaborative projects, he serves as a bridge between Iranian biotechnology advancements and the international research community.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Aghanouri is poised to further advance the fields of molecular neurogenetics and translational medicine. His ongoing research is expected to uncover novel genetic mechanisms underlying brain development and metabolic dysfunctions. As a faculty member and research leader, he is mentoring the next generation of Iranian scientists while enhancing the global understanding of complex neurological diseases. His integrated approach to research, policy, and education ensures that his legacy will be one of both scientific innovation and institutional transformation.

Publication

 

  • Betulin and its derivatives as novel compounds with different pharmacological effects
    S Amiri, S Dastghaib, M Ahmadi, P Mehrbod, F Khadem, H Behrouj, …
    2020

 

  • Oxidized phosphatidylcholines trigger ferroptosis in cardiomyocytes during ischemia-reperfusion injury
    A Stamenkovic, KA O’Hara, DC Nelson, TG Maddaford, AL Edel, …
    2021

 

  • Insulin-like growth factor-1 activates AMPK to augment mitochondrial function and correct neuronal metabolism in sensory neurons in type 1 diabetes
    MR Aghanoori, DR Smith, S Shariati-Ievari, A Ajisebutu, A Nguyen, …
    2019

 

  • The ER stress/UPR axis in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
    M Aghaei, S Dastghaib, S Aftabi, MR Aghanoori, J Alizadeh, P Mokarram, …
    2020

 

  • MiRNA molecular profiles in human medical conditions: Connecting lung cancer and lung development phenomena
    MR Aghanoori, B Mirzaei, M Tavallaei
    2014

 

  • Mechanisms targeting the unfolded protein response in asthma
    S Dastghaib, PS Kumar, S Aftabi, G Damera, A Dalvand, A Sepanjnia, …
    2021

 

  • Nucleocytoplasmic transport of the RNA-binding protein CELF2 regulates neural stem cell fates
    MJ MacPherson, SL Erickson, D Kopp, P Wen, MR Aghanoori, S Kedia, …
    2021

 

  • CYP2E15B, CYP2E16, CYP2E17B, CYP2E12, and CYP2E1*3 Allele Frequencies in Iranian Populations
    GM Shahriary, H Galehdari, A Jalali, F Zanganeh, SMR Alavi, …
    2012

 

  • Insulin prevents aberrant mitochondrial phenotype in sensory neurons of type 1 diabetic rats
    MR Aghanoori, DR Smith, SR Chowdhury, MG Sabbir, NA Calcutt, …
    2017

 

  • CEBPβ regulation of endogenous IGF-1 in adult sensory neurons can be mobilized to overcome diabetes-induced deficits in bioenergetics and axonal outgrowth
    MR Aghanoori, P Agarwal, E Gauvin, RS Nagalingam, R Bonomo, …
    2022

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Aghanouri stands out as a versatile and impactful scientist whose contributions to neuroscience and genetic medicine hold promise for both understanding and treating complex neurological conditions. His career reflects a strong blend of academic excellence, international collaboration, and leadership in research development. As he continues to build bridges between Iranian and global biosciences, his future work is expected to leave a lasting legacy in molecular neuroscience and translational medicine.

 

stefano | Clinical Neuroscience | Innovative Research Award

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Dr. Stefano | Clinical Neuroscience | Innovative Research Award

Dr. Stefano, Ospedale Santa Chiara Trento, Italy.

Dr. Stefano Branzoli is a highly accomplished cardiac surgeon with decades of experience spanning Italy, Belgium, and the United States. After completing his medical studies at the University of Pavia, he advanced through elite international training, including a fellowship at the Mayo Clinic. His career has focused on surgical innovation in cardiac electrophysiology, with particular emphasis on thoracoscopic ablation for atrial fibrillation, stroke prevention, and ventricular arrhythmias. Through his roles at Santa Chiara Hospital and Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, he has contributed extensively to both clinical practice and academic research.

Profile

Orcid

🧬 Early Academic Pursuits


Dr. Stefano Branzoli began his journey into medicine at the prestigious University of Pavia, where he earned his degree in Medicine and Surgery between 1992 and 1998. Driven by a deep curiosity for cardiovascular science, he embarked on rigorous postgraduate training, marking the start of an extraordinary career in cardiac surgery. His academic excellence soon opened international doors, including a coveted fellowship at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

🏥 Professional Endeavors


From 1999 to 2004, Dr. Branzoli honed his clinical expertise as a resident in cardiac surgery at the University of Pavia. He became board-certified after completing the USMLE in 2000, equipping him with transatlantic qualifications. Since 2005, he has served in the Cardiac Surgery Unit at Santa Chiara Hospital in Trento, Italy, while also expanding his reach as a specialist at the Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel in Belgium since 2019. These dual roles reflect his commitment to advancing surgical standards across borders.Contributions to Cardiac ElectrophysiologyThroughout his career, Dr. Branzoli has been instrumental in the development and refinement of procedures targeting arrhythmias. His clinical and research contributions in thoracoscopic ablation for atrial fibrillation, stroke prevention, and epicardial ablation for ventricular arrhythmias have positioned him as a leading voice in electrophysiological cardiac surgery. He has been particularly focused on minimally invasive techniques that reduce patient recovery time while enhancing procedural efficacy.

🔬 Research Focus and Innovation


Dr. Branzoli’s research portfolio reflects his dedication to solving complex cardiovascular challenges. He has led and contributed to significant projects centered on atrial fibrillation, stroke prevention strategies, and novel ablative techniques. His work bridges the gap between traditional surgical approaches and cutting-edge electrophysiological interventions, helping shape the future of cardiac care through both clinical practice and investigative science.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition


Though modest in demeanor, Dr. Branzoli’s accomplishments have earned him respect in academic and clinical circles alike. His training at the Mayo Clinic—a global epicenter for cardiac research—along with his dual appointments in Italy and Belgium, speak volumes of his international reputation. His involvement in advanced cardiac rhythm management has earned recognition from peers and institutions aiming to elevate surgical excellence.

🌍 Impact and Influence


Beyond the operating theater, Dr. Branzoli’s influence is reflected in the widespread adoption of thoracoscopic ablation techniques and his mentorship of upcoming cardiac surgeons in Europe. By integrating cross-border expertise, he has played a vital role in aligning surgical standards and promoting collaborative research between institutions in Italy, Belgium, and beyond.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions


As medicine evolves toward personalized, minimally invasive therapies, Dr. Branzoli stands at the forefront of surgical innovation. His work continues to inspire new pathways in arrhythmia management and stroke prevention. With a career spanning continents and a mind open to continual learning, his legacy is defined not only by lives saved but also by knowledge passed on to future generations of cardiovascular specialists.

Publication

  • Title: Patients with Gastrointestinal Bleeding and Atrial Fibrillation: Potential Ideal Target for Epicardial Appendage Occlusion
    Authors: Stefano Branzoli, Massimiliano Marini, Domenico Catanzariti, Cecilia Pravadelli, Luigi Pannone, Giovanni D’Onghia, Mauro Fantinel, Fabrizio Guarracini, Gaia Franceschini, Mirco Zadro et al.
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Heart Team for Left Appendage Occlusion without the Use of Antithrombotic Therapy: The Epicardial Perspective
    Authors: Stefano Branzoli, Fabrizio Guarracini, Massimiliano Marini, Giovanni D’Onghia, Domenico Catanzariti, Elettra Merola, Luciano Annicchiarico, Giulia Casagranda, Chiara Stegagno, Mauro Fantinel et al.
    Year: 2022

 

✅ Conclusion


Dr. Branzoli’s enduring commitment to advancing cardiac surgery has had a meaningful impact on patient care, research, and education. With a legacy rooted in innovation, cross-cultural collaboration, and a passion for arrhythmia management, he continues to influence the evolving field of cardiovascular medicine. His work serves as a bridge between traditional surgical methods and modern electrophysiological therapies—ensuring that the future of heart care is not only safer and more effective but also profoundly human-centered.

Clotilde Guidetti | Neuropharmacology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Clotilde Guidetti | Neuropharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Clotilde Guidetti, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, United States.

Clotilde Guidetti is an accomplished early-career physician-scientist specializing in Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry. With a classical foundation and medical training from the University of Genoa, she excelled academically, earning multiple merit awards and graduating Summa Cum Laude. She completed her specialized residency at the Catholic University of Rome, further refining her clinical expertise. Clotilde’s research focus lies in neurodevelopmental disorders, behavioral interventions, and psychopharmacology in pediatric populations. She has already demonstrated promise as an independent researcher through competitive grant submissions and award-winning conference presentations. Based in Boston, she is actively shaping a career that bridges clinical care and scientific innovation.

Profile

Scopus

 

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Clotilde Guidetti began her academic journey with a deep-rooted passion for understanding the human mind and behavior. She earned her High School Diploma in Classical Studies from the prestigious State High School Andrea D’Oria, an early indication of her strong intellectual curiosity and dedication to learning. This foundation in classical education provided her with a broad humanistic perspective that continues to inform her clinical and research approach. She then pursued her Medical Degree at the University of Genoa, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2020. Her academic record was consistently marked by distinction, earning multiple Academic Merit Awards for clinical excellence during her medical studies.

🧠 Professional Endeavors

Following her graduation, Dr. Guidetti further specialized in the field of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry through a rigorous residency program at the Catholic University of Rome. Completed in November 2024, her residency was also distinguished with Summa Cum Laude honors, reflecting both her clinical acumen and compassionate engagement with young patients. Her professional training combined intensive clinical work with scholarly research, preparing her to address complex neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders in children and adolescents.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Guidetti’s primary research interests lie at the intersection of neurodevelopment, behavioral disorders, and psychopharmacology in pediatric populations. Her clinical insights are deeply enriched by her scientific inquiries, particularly those focused on the early diagnosis and personalized treatment of neuropsychiatric conditions. She has already begun shaping her independent research path, as seen in her recent submission for the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation Young Investigator Grant in January 2025. Her project, currently under review, reflects her growing reputation as an emerging scholar in the domain of pediatric neuropsychiatry.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her academic and clinical journey, Clotilde Guidetti has been the recipient of multiple honors that highlight her outstanding abilities. These include three Academic Merit Awards from the University of Genoa and a prestigious Erasmus Socrates Fellowship in 2017–2018, which broadened her training in an international context. In 2022, she received the Attilio Sabato Award from the Società Italiana di Neuropsicofarmacologia (SINPF) for the best poster presentation—an achievement that not only celebrated her communication skills but also her innovative scientific thinking in neuropsychopharmacology.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Though early in her career, Dr. Guidetti has already begun to leave a meaningful mark on the field of child and adolescent mental health. Her dual focus on clinical excellence and academic inquiry ensures that her work resonates both within medical communities and in the lives of the families she serves. With a practice grounded in empathy and scientific rigor, she exemplifies the new generation of clinician-scientists committed to transforming mental health care for the most vulnerable populations.

🧬 Legacy and Future Contributions

As she looks to the future, Clotilde Guidetti aims to expand her contributions to academic psychiatry through collaborative research, cross-disciplinary studies, and the mentorship of emerging professionals in the field. Her continued involvement in national and international research networks promises to amplify her influence, paving the way for innovative treatments and holistic models of care in pediatric neuropsychiatry. Her vision is firmly centered on early intervention, neurodevelopmental resilience, and the integration of clinical practice with cutting-edge neuroscience.

📚 Academic Footprint

Dr. Guidetti currently resides and practices in Boston, Massachusetts, where she continues to build her clinical and research profile. Her dual base—rooted in Italy and expanding into the United States—places her at the nexus of transatlantic collaboration. With each project and presentation, she further refines her expertise and extends her academic footprint, fostering a dynamic career defined by global engagement, intellectual integrity, and unwavering commitment to child and adolescent mental health.

Publication

  • Title: Antidepressants in the acute treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

  • Authors: Guidetti, Clotilde; Feeney, Anna; Hock, Rebecca S.; Fava, Maurizio; Papakostas, George I.

  • Year: 2024

 

📝 Conclusion

Dr. Guidetti embodies the ideal of a compassionate clinician and rigorous academic, poised to make significant contributions to the future of child and adolescent mental health. Her career so far reflects a seamless blend of scholarly excellence, clinical sensitivity, and a drive to push the boundaries of understanding in neuropsychiatry. As she continues to expand her research and collaborative efforts globally, her work promises to influence both scientific discourse and practical approaches in mental health care—building a legacy rooted in evidence, empathy, and innovation.

 

Baoying Huang | Pathogen Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Baoying Huang | Pathogen Biology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Baoying Huang,  National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, China.

Dr. Baoying Huang, a distinguished professor at the Biotech Center for Viral Disease Emergency, China CDC, has over two decades of experience in combating viral diseases. Her expertise lies in vaccine and antiviral drug development for emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, including COVID-19, monkeypox, and other human coronaviruses.

 

profile

Scopus

🎓 Education Experience

2008.09–2011.07: Doctor of Medicine, Pathogen Biology,Biotech Center for Viral Disease Emergency, China CDC.2005.09–2008.07: Master of Biology, Pathogen Biology,Biotech Center for Viral Disease Emergency, China CDC. 2001.09–2005.07: Bachelor of Biology,
Life Science Department, Nan Hua University, China.

👩‍🔬 Professional Experience

2020.07–Present:  Professor, China CD ,Focus: Vaccine and antiviral drug R&D for SARS-CoV-2 and poxvirus diseases, including COVID-19 and monkeypox. Key Role: Participated in COVID-19 Emergency Projects for SARS-CoV-2 variant monitoring in China.2015.07–2020.07:  Associate Professor, China CDC. Focus: Vaccine and antiviral drug R&D for emerging infectious diseases like influenza and coronaviruses (SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV).2015.04–2015.06:  Assistant Professor, China CDC. Global Health Support Program: Worked in Sierra Leone to establish Ebola lab systems, improving public health infrastructure.2011.07–2015.07: Assistant Professor, China CDC. Focus: Pathogenic molecular mechanisms of influenza viruses, pseudo-virus applications, and gene-engineered vaccines. 2005.09–2011.07:  Graduate Researcher, IVDC, China CDC. Specialization: Developing universal influenza vaccines for cross-protection against various strains.

🔬 Research Focus

Baoying Huang’s work is dedicated to:Vaccine Development: COVID-19 vaccines (BBIBP-CorV, mRNA vaccines) and pan-orthopoxvirus solutions.Emerging Diseases: Countermeasures for SARS-CoV-2, monkeypox, and other viral threats.Diagnostics: Whole-genome sequencing and real-time PCR for virus detection and monitoring.Therapeutics: Screening novel antivirals targeting viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and monkeypox.Key achievements include:Leading the development of Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine, later approved by WHO for Emergency Use Listing.Establishing monitoring systems for SARS-CoV-2 variants and assessing their impact on public health measures. Advancing monkeypox vaccine research and identifying promising antiviral compounds against orthopoxviruses.

📚 Publications

  • Title: Molecular architecture of monkeypox mature virus
    • Authors: Hong, Y., Huang, B., Zhang, J., Tan, W., Li, S.
    • Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Vaccinia virus Tiantan strain blocks host antiviral innate immunity and programmed cell death by disrupting gene expression
    • Authors: Wu, C., Zhang, Z., Li, Z., Deng, Y., Tan, W.
    • Year: 2024

 

  • Title: A clinically used anti-human papilloma virus agent (3-hydroxyphthalic anhydride-modified bovine β-lactoglobulin) has a potential for topical application to prevent sexual transmission of monkeypox virus
    • Authors: Sha, Y., Huang, B., Hua, C., Tan, W., Jiang, S.
    • Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Development of a multiplex real-time PCR assay for the simultaneous detection of mpox virus and orthopoxvirus infections
    • Authors: Fan, Z., Xie, Y., Huang, B., Tan, W., Guo, F.
    • Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Accurate determination of the whole genome sequencing and open reading frames composition of non-replicating Tiantan strain of vaccinia virus based on novel long read sequencing platform
    • Authors: Zhang, Z., Wu, C., Li, H., Huang, B., Tan, W.
    • Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Characterization of whole genomes from recently emerging Mpox cases in several regions of China, 2023
    • Authors: Wu, C., Cui, L., Pan, Y., Wang, Q., Tan, W.
    • Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Intranasal immunization with single-dose vaccine based on recombinant influenza virus H1N1 expressing the extracellular domain of respiratory syncytial virus G protein induces robust immunity and protection in mice
    • Authors: Han, R., Wang, D., Wang, T., Huang, B., Tan, W.
    • Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Rapid identification of full-length genome and tracing variations of monkeypox virus in clinical specimens based on mNGS and amplicon sequencing
    • Authors: Wu, C., A, R., Ye, S., Lu, J., Tan, W.
    • Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Long-lasting humoral and cellular memory immunity to vaccinia virus Tiantan provides pre-existing immunity against mpox virus in Chinese population
    • Authors: Li, M., Guo, Y., Deng, Y., Gao, G.F., Liu, J.
    • Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Identification of the VP37 pocket of monkeypox virus as a promising target for pan-orthopoxvirus inhibitors through virtual screening and antiviral assays
    • Authors: Huo, S., Wu, L., Huang, B., Xu, Z., Tan, W.
    • Year: 2024

 

Conclusion

Dr. Huang’s career exemplifies unwavering dedication to improving public health through innovation in vaccine development, antiviral research, and diagnostic technologies. Her contributions to tackling global health challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and monkeypox outbreaks, have significantly impacted infectious disease prevention and control worldwide. As viruses continue to evolve, her pioneering work remains a cornerstone in safeguarding global health.