Cara Lynne Schengrund | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Cara Lynne Schengrund | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award 

Professor Emeritus at Penn State College of Medicine | United States

Prof. Cara Lynne Schengrund, Professor Emerita of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Penn State College of Medicine, is a renowned scientist whose career reflects a lifetime of impactful research and academic leadership. She completed her B.S. in Chemistry at Upsala College, followed by an M.S. and Ph.D. in Chemistry at Seton Hall University, building a strong foundation in chemical and biochemical sciences. Her professional journey includes roles as a research associate at Columbia University and Penn State before progressing through faculty ranks to Professor and later Professor Emerita, where she also served in leadership roles such as Acting Department Chair and Chair of the University Faculty Senate. Prof. Cara Lynne Schengrund ’s research has focused on the biological role of glycosphingolipids and gangliosides, particularly their involvement in neuroblastomas, neural development, cholesterol metabolism, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and autism. Her laboratory pioneered the synthesis of multivalent oligosaccharide inhibitors that block pathogen interactions, with implications for combating cholera, HIV, and other infectious diseases. possesses advanced research skills in neurochemistry, glycobiology, and biochemical analysis, with demonstrated expertise in lipid raft biology, receptor-ligand interactions, and therapeutic target identification. Her scholarly impact is evidenced by 2,563 citations across 2,054 documents, 87 publications, and an h-index of 28, highlighting both the breadth and depth of her scientific contributions. Prof. Cara Lynne Schengrund has been honored with prestigious recognitions including the Distinguished Alumni Award from Upsala College and the YWCA Tribute to Women of Excellence, and she has been elected to leadership positions in professional societies while serving on NIH and VA scientific review committees. With an enduring commitment to mentoring and international collaboration, she continues to influence biomedical research, and her groundbreaking work in glycosphingolipids and neurobiology positions her as a leader whose contributions will continue to shape advances in medicine and science globally.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications:

  • Thompson, J. P., & Schengrund, C. L. (1997). Oligosaccharide-derivatized dendrimers: Inhibitors of the adherence of the cholera toxin B subunit and the heat labile enterotoxin of E. coli to GM1. Glycoconjugate Journal, 14(7), 837–845.

  • Kensinger, R. D., Yowler, B. C., Benesi, A. J., & Schengrund, C. L. (2004). Synthesis of novel, multivalent glycodendrimers as ligands for HIV-1 gp120. Bioconjugate Chemistry, 15(2), 349–358.

  • Petro, K. A., & Schengrund, C. L. (2009). Membrane raft disruption promotes axonogenesis in N2a neuroblastoma cells. Neurochemical Research, 34(1), 29–37.

  • Schengrund, C. L. (2015). Gangliosides: Glycosphingolipids essential for normal neural development and function. Trends in Biochemical Sciences, 40(7), 397–406. Schengrund, C. L. (2023). The yin and yang of ganglioside function in cancer. Cancers, 15(22), 5362.

Binhao Wang | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Binhao Wang | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

PhD Candidate at Jiangnan University, China.

Binhao Wang, a dedicated researcher in enzyme engineering, is pursuing a Ph.D. at Jiangnan University, renowned for its excellence in biotechnology. Born on February 22, 1999, Wang has already made significant strides in research, with notable publications in international journals. His expertise spans protein engineering, enzyme catalysis, and chromatographic methods, with a strong focus on improving catalytic efficiency and regioselectivity. A native of Wuxi, Jiangsu, China, Wang possesses linguistic fluency in Chinese and English, enabling seamless global collaboration. His innovative leadership and academic contributions position him as a promising figure in the field of biochemical research.

Professional Profile:

Education

Binhao Wang completed his Bachelor’s in Bioengineering at Beijing Technology and Business University (2017–2021). During his undergraduate studies, he developed a strong foundation in biochemical processes, preparing him for advanced research. Currently, he is a Ph.D. candidate in enzyme engineering at Jiangnan University (2022–present). His doctoral research explores protein modifications and enzyme catalysis, focusing on addressing industrial challenges through innovative biochemical methods. This dual academic experience highlights Wang’s ability to synthesize foundational knowledge and cutting-edge research techniques, contributing to his success as an emerging scientist.

Professional Experience

As a doctoral researcher, Wang has demonstrated exceptional leadership by spearheading a provincial innovation project funded by the Jiangsu Province Postgraduate Research and Practice Innovation Program. This role required project planning, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary collaboration, showcasing his ability to manage complex research initiatives. Wang’s experience includes designing and conducting experiments in protein engineering and enzyme catalysis, mentoring peers, and publishing in prestigious journals. His professional endeavors reflect a blend of academic rigor and practical application, solidifying his position as a capable researcher with a strong focus on biochemical innovation.

Research Interests

Wang’s primary research interests lie in enzyme engineering, with an emphasis on improving the catalytic efficiency and selectivity of enzymes for industrial applications. He is particularly focused on using advanced protein engineering techniques to enhance enzyme functionality in complex reactions. Wang is also exploring novel methods in chromatography for the separation and purification of bioactive compounds. His research aims to bridge the gap between fundamental science and industrial utility, with applications spanning pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, and sustainable technologies.

Research Skills

Binhao Wang possesses a robust skill set that includes expertise in protein engineering, enzyme modification, and catalytic reaction optimization. His proficiency in advanced analytical techniques, such as supercritical fluid chromatography, highlights his technical competence. Wang is adept at designing experiments, interpreting complex data, and publishing high-quality research. His multilingual abilities and collaborative approach enhance his effectiveness in global research settings. Additionally, his project management skills, honed through leading innovation initiatives, demonstrate his ability to align research objectives with broader scientific and industrial goals.

Awards and Honors

Wang has been recognized for his leadership in research through his participation in the prestigious 2024 Jiangsu Province Postgraduate Research and Practice Innovation Program. This award highlights his innovative contributions to enzyme engineering and his ability to lead impactful projects. His publications in leading journals further underscore his academic excellence and commitment to advancing biochemical research. As a young researcher, these accolades reflect his potential to become a leading figure in the scientific community.

Conclusion

Binhao Wang is a promising researcher whose contributions to enzyme engineering, combined with his academic and professional achievements, make him a strong candidate for research awards and recognition. His innovative approach, leadership skills, and commitment to advancing biochemical sciences position him as a future leader in his field. With continued focus on impactful research and broader collaboration, Wang’s work is poised to make significant contributions to science and industry.

Publication Top Notes

  • Novel Approach for Efficient Separation of Primary Amines Using Supercritical Fluid Chromatography
    • Authors: Binhao Wang, Yu Shen, Ruonan Hao, Shuheng Pan, Ruizhi Han, Ye Ni
    • Published Year: 2025
    • Journal: Chirality
    • DOI: 10.1002/chir.70012
    • ISSN: 0899-0042, 1520-636X
  • Modulating Stereoselectivity and Catalytic Efficiency of Carbenoid Reactions Catalysed by Self-Sufficient P450s
    • Authors: Binhao Wang, Cuiping You, Guochao Xu, Ye Ni
    • Published Year: 2024
    • Journal: Catalysis Science & Technology
    • DOI: 10.1039/d3cy01258a
    • ISSN: 2044-4753, 2044-4761