Cara Lynne Schengrund | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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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.

Zikai Zhou | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Zikai Zhou | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award 

Ph.D at Inner Mongolia University | China

Dr. Zikai Zhou is a distinguished researcher in biochemistry and molecular biology, currently affiliated with Inner Mongolia University, with co-mentorship experience at the University of California, Davis, which has strengthened his international research exposure and collaborative network. His academic foundation includes advanced training in bioengineering and biochemistry, equipping him with a strong multidisciplinary approach to scientific challenges. Dr. Zikai Zhou’s professional experience reflects deep engagement with research in plant–pathogen interactions, soybean resistance to viral pathogens, molecular genetics, and plant stress tolerance mechanisms, areas that hold critical importance for global food security and sustainable agriculture. His research skills span molecular biology techniques, genetic engineering, biotechnology applications, and data analysis, allowing him to make significant contributions to understanding plant immunity and resistance pathways. He has authored impactful publications in reputed journals, including Plant Physiology and Plants which highlight his contributions to identifying resistance genes in soybean and exploring stress-responsive molecular mechanisms. These contributions are reflected in his growing academic recognition with 60 citations by 58 documents, 5 documents indexed, and an h-index of 4. His work demonstrates both depth and innovation, with practical applications for improving crop resilience under biotic and abiotic stresses. Though early in his career, Dr. Zikai Zhou’s trajectory suggests an exceptional potential for leadership in agricultural biotechnology and molecular biology research, supported by his international collaborations and strong publication record. His honors and achievements are evidenced by his impactful research outcomes rather than formal accolades alone, marking him as a promising researcher poised to contribute significantly to the scientific community. In conclusion, Dr. Zikai Zhou’s academic excellence, research productivity, and international outlook make him a deserving candidate for recognition, with strong future potential to drive advances in biochemistry, molecular biology, and global agricultural sustainability.

Profile : Scopus

Fuetured Publications:

  • Zhou, Z., Bao, Z., Miao, D., Zhou, Y., Niu, N., & Wuriyanghan, H. (2025). High basal expression and dual stress responsiveness of soybean (Glycine max) resistance gene SRC4. Plants, 14(18), 2820.

  • Yan, T., Zhou, Z. K., Wang, R., Bao, D. R., Li, S. S., Li, A. G., Yu, R., & Wuriyanghan, H. (2022). A cluster of atypical resistance genes in soybean confers broad-spectrum antiviral activity. Plant Physiology, 189(4), 1956–1970.

  • Zhou, Z., (2024). Development of an NLR-ID toolkit and identification of novel disease-resistance genes in soybean. Plants.

Ion Romulus Scorei | Biochemistry | Excellence in Research Award

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Prof. Dr. Ion Romulus Scorei | Biochemistry | Excellence in Research Award

Manager at Bioboron Research Institute, Romania.

Prof. Ion Romulus Scorei, Ph.D., is a renowned Romanian biochemist and the Founder & Manager of the BioBoron Research Institute 🧪 since 2011. He serves as a Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Craiova’s Faculty of Horticulture 🌿. With over 40 years of scientific excellence, he specializes in boron biochemistry and nutraceutical research. He pioneered the use of calcium fructoborate, securing patents and international awards 🏅. As head of the Biochemistry Research Laboratory since 1990, his work bridges academic innovation and applied science, earning him recognition as Science Man of the Year by the Mihai Eminescu International Academy 🏆.

Professional Profile:

Scopus

Suitability for Best Researcher Award – Prof. Ion Romulus Scorei

Prof. Ion Romulus Scorei stands out as an exemplary candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his four-decade-long commitment to cutting-edge biochemical research and innovation. As a leading expert in boron biochemistry and the pioneering force behind calcium fructoborate research, his groundbreaking work in nutraceuticals and functional food chemistry has earned both scientific and commercial recognition. His unique ability to translate fundamental science into patented technologies, while mentoring the next generation of scientists and influencing national research policy, showcases a rare blend of academic rigor, innovation, and impact.

🎓 Education & Experience

  • 🎓 Ph.D. in Biochemistry, University of Bucharest (1997)

  • 🎓 M.Sc. & B.Sc. in Biochemistry, University of Bucharest

  • 👨‍🔬 Professor of Biochemistry, University of Craiova, Faculty of Horticulture

  • 🧪 Founder & Manager, BioBoron Research Institute (since 2011)

  • 🧬 Head, Biochemistry Research Laboratory, University of Craiova (since 1990)

  • 📊 Researcher & Director, Multiple R&D projects (national & international)

🧠 Professional Development

Prof. Scorei’s professional journey reflects a deep commitment to research, innovation, and science communication. As a leader in the field of boron chemistry 🧪, he has collaborated on numerous international and national research projects. He is actively involved in promoting nutraceutical advancements, functional foods, and therapeutic applications of boron compounds 🌿. A seasoned mentor and evaluator, he contributes to shaping Romanian science policy through national program reviews 📝. With regular participation in international conferences and peer-reviewed publications, Prof. Scorei is continuously developing both his scientific expertise and leadership in biochemical innovation 🧬.

🔬 Research Focus Area

Prof. Scorei’s research centers on boron biochemistry, with a special focus on calcium fructoborate, a boron-based compound with health-enhancing properties 🌿. He explores its roles in prebiotic chemistry, nutritional biochemistry, and functional foods. His studies contribute to understanding boron’s essential role in cell signaling, enzyme regulation, and anti-inflammatory mechanisms 🧠. His work has significant implications in nutraceuticals, promoting natural alternatives for joint health, cardiovascular wellness, and overall immunity 🏃‍♂️💚. Prof. Scorei’s interdisciplinary approach blends biochemistry, pharmacology, and horticultural science to pioneer boron’s therapeutic potential for both academic and industrial applications 🧪.

🏆 Awards & Honors

  • 🏅 Gold Medals from Innovation Fairs – Geneva, Bucharest & Warsaw

  • 🧪 International Patents for Calcium Fructoborate innovations

  • 👨‍🎓 Science Man of the Year (2010) – Mihai Eminescu International Academy

  • 📜 Expert Evaluator for Romanian National Research Programs

  • 🏆 Recognition for Innovation Excellence in Functional Food and Nutraceutical Research

Publication Top Notes

📘 1. Effects of Boron-Containing Compounds in the Fungal Kingdom

Authors: E. Estevez-Fregoso, E.D. Farfán-García, I.H. García-Coronel, I.R. Scorei, M.A. Soriano-Ursúa
Type: Review Article | Access: Open Access
Citations: 18
Summary:
This review explores how boron-containing compounds (BCCs) interact with various fungal species. It highlights their antifungal mechanisms, including cell wall disruption, metabolic interference, and enzyme inhibition. The paper emphasizes the potential use of BCCs in antifungal drug development and agricultural biosecurity due to their selective toxicity and effectiveness.

❤️ 2. Effects of Boron-Containing Compounds on Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors – A Review

Authors: I. Donoiu, C. Militaru, O. Obleagă, I.R. Scorei, O.C. Rogoveanu
Type: Review Article | Access: Open Access
Citations: 63
Summary:
This review investigates the role of boron-containing compounds in reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. It compiles data on their effects on lipid profiles, blood pressure regulation, inflammation, and oxidative stress. The authors argue that BCCs may support cardiovascular health through their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, suggesting further clinical research is warranted.

Conclusion

Prof. Ion Romulus Scorei embodies the essence of a Best Researcher—a visionary whose work bridges foundational science and real-world application. His relentless pursuit of innovation in boron biochemistry and his leadership in nutraceutical research make him highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. His scientific contributions have not only advanced global understanding but also offered tangible health benefits, reinforcing his legacy as a leader in biochemical innovation.