Huai-Jen Tsai | Transgenesis | Excellence in Research Award

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Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai | Transgenesis | Excellence in Research Award 

Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai | Transgenesis | Chair Professor at Fu Jen Catholic University | Taiwan

Transgenesis Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai is a distinguished scientist whose career spans over five decades in molecular biology, marine biotechnology, developmental biology, and particularly gene transgenesis in aquatic organisms. Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai obtained his B.Sc. in Biology from Fu-Jen Catholic University, followed by an M.Sc. in Marine Biology and Fisheries Science from National Taiwan University, where his master’s thesis analyzed blood and muscle proteins of blenny fish via electrophoresis — grounding him firmly in marine biology and protein biochemistry. He then went on to earn a Ph.D. in Microbiology from Oregon State University, USA, completing a dissertation on “Conjugal transfer of plasmid genes between lactic Streptococcus and Leuconostoc starter cultures,” which provided him with rigorous training in gene transfer, plasmid biology and microbial genetics. This strong educational foundation supported a prolific professional journey: beginning as a research assistant, then serving as a teaching assistant, and eventually becoming a researcher in biotechnology and fermentation in the U.S., before returning to Taiwan to engage in academia and research. Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai progressed from Associate Professor to Professor — holding significant roles at the Institute of Fisheries Science and the Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology at National Taiwan University, and later serving as Professor and Director of these institutes. He also held adjunct and visiting professorships, including at the Institute of Biomedical Sciences at Mackay Medical College, and serves as Chair Professor in the Department of Life Science at Fu-Jen Catholic University. Throughout his career, Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai has combined marine biology, molecular biology, and biotechnology to pioneer the development of transgenic aquatic animals, especially using fish models. His research interests center on gene transgenesis in aquatic materials, developmental biology using model fish, molecular mechanisms of gene regulation, tissue-specific gene expression, environmental biotechnology applications, and the use of transgenic fish as biosensors for environmental toxicants. His lab has developed a wide range of transgenic lines — for example, fluorescent-protein–tagged zebrafish where muscle, heart, eye or ovary tissues are marked, as well as transgenic medaka and other aquaculture species — to study gene regulation, embryonic development, organogenesis, regeneration, and environmental responses. Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai’s research skills cover a broad array of molecular biology and biotechnology techniques: gene cloning, promoter analysis, microinjection and electroporation gene transfer methods, transgenesis, germ-line transmission, use of fluorescent reporter genes (GFP/RFP) for live imaging, developmental gene expression studies, protein biochemistry, and the use of aquatic model organisms. He has authored many peer-reviewed publications and secured patents for “Novel transgenic zebrafish, gene fragments and methods for producing transgenic zebrafish.” His honors and awards reflect his scientific leadership and teaching excellence, including the MOST Outstanding Research Award, Excellent Teaching Award, recognition as Distinguished Professor, the Y. Z. Hsu Technology Invention Award (Biotechnology Category) for a patent on “Novel Gene Fragment for Use in Golden Zebrafish,” and multiple Outstanding Research Awards, as well as inclusion in the prestigious directories Marquis Who’s Who in various categories — highlighting his global recognition. In conclusion, Prof. Dr. Huai-Jen Tsai stands as a pioneering and visionary scientist whose integration of marine biology, molecular techniques, and transgenic technologies has significantly advanced aquatic biotechnology and developmental biology. His lifelong commitment to gene transgenesis in fish, his development of transgenic aquatic models, and his mentorship of students position him as a foundational figure shaping the future of marine biotechnology, environmental monitoring using transgenic organisms, and developmental biology research.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Zeng, C.-W., & Tsai, H.-J. (2023). The Promising Role of a Zebrafish Model Employed in Neural Regeneration Following a Spinal Cord Injury. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(18), 13938. 
Tsai, H.-J. (2000). Electroporated Sperm Mediation of a Gene Transfer System for Finfish and Shellfish. Molecular Reproduction and Development, 56, 281–284. 
Tsai, H.-J., Chen, Y.-H., Lin, Y.-J., & Wang, Y.-H. (2006). Spatiotemporal Expression of Zebrafish Keratin 18 During Early Embryogenesis and the Establishment of a Keratin 18:RFP Transgenic Line. Gene Expression Patterns, 6(4), 335–339. 
Hsiao, C.-D., & Tsai, H.-J. (2003). Skin-specific Expression of ictacalcin, a Homolog of the S100 Genes, During Zebrafish Embryogenesis. Developmental Dynamics, 228(4), 745–750.
Chou, C.-Y., Horng, L.-S., & Tsai, H.-J. (2001). Uniform GFP-Expression in Transgenic Medaka (Oryzias latipes) at the F0 Generation. Transgenic Research, 10, 303–315. 

 

Usman Kolawole | Animal biotechnology |

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Mr. Usman Kolawole | Animal biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Usman Kolawole | Animal biotechnology – Researcher at Dankook University, South Korea

Usman Kayode Kolawole is an emerging scholar in animal science, focusing on animal physiology, welfare, and nutrition. With a strong foundation in both field-based animal management and laboratory-based experimentation, he is currently serving as a Researcher and Animal Research Assistant at the Smart Animal Bio Institute, Dankook University in South Korea. Usman’s work is dedicated to improving livestock productivity and welfare through innovative feed strategies and biotechnology applications. His contributions span research design, data analysis, animal health monitoring, and scholarly dissemination through journals and conferences. As a proactive and detail-oriented early-career researcher, he bridges scientific inquiry with practical agricultural applications, contributing to the sustainable transformation of animal agriculture in both local and international contexts.

Professional Profile Verified

ORCID | Google Scholar

Education

Usman holds a Bachelor of Agriculture in Animal Physiology, graduating with a Second Class Upper Division from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Nigeria. His academic training included an extensive farm practical year (FPY), during which he was exposed to diverse animal and crop production systems. He completed the Nigerian National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program at the University of Benin, further expanding his understanding of academic and research administration. In addition to his formal degree, he earned a Certificate in Digital Literacy from New Horizon Institute and holds professional recognition as a Graduate Animal Scientist (GAS) from the Nigerian Institute of Animal Science (NIAS), reinforcing his credentials in the animal science discipline.

Professional Experience

Kolawole’s professional journey reflects a progressive build-up of field and research expertise. Between 2018 and 2024, he served as a Farm Supervisor at First Fourcube Limited, Nigeria, where he managed farm operations, animal care, team coordination, and problem-solving in agricultural production. Prior to that, he undertook administrative duties during his NYSC and gained early hands-on experience during his farm internship. In 2024, he transitioned into a research-focused role at Dankook University, South Korea, where he currently conducts advanced animal research, including experimentation, animal monitoring, data management, and manuscript preparation. His professional path is a testament to his commitment to continuous learning, innovation, and impactful contributions to animal science.

Research Interests

Kolawole’s research interests lie in animal nutrition, physiology, welfare, and biotechnology. He is particularly focused on optimizing feed efficiency, mitigating heat stress, and improving the health and performance of livestock through dietary supplementation and novel feed ingredients. His work also explores sustainable alternatives to conventional feeds, such as insect-based proteins and enzymatic additives. With an interest in the interaction between nutrition and animal behavior, he seeks to develop integrative strategies for enhancing productivity in poultry and swine under various environmental conditions. Through his research, Kolawole aims to contribute to global efforts in sustainable livestock production and food security.

Awards and Certifications

Kolawole has received professional certification as a Graduate Animal Scientist (GAS) from the Nigerian Institute of Animal Science, recognizing his expertise and professional standing in the animal science community. He has also participated in the 2nd Animal Behaviour and Welfare Conference in Africa, a platform that provided him with insights into global welfare standards and research trends. His academic merit during undergraduate studies and his role in research at Dankook University further affirm his eligibility and suitability for the Best Researcher Award.

Selected Publications 📚

  1. 🐖 “Dietary Inclusion Effects of Dried Mealworm, Hydrolyzed Mealworm, Fermented Poultry By-Product, and Hydrolyzed Fish Soluble Protein on Weaning Pigs’ Performance, Fecal Score, and Blood Profiles” – Animals (2025) | DOI: 10.3390/ani15111507 | Cited by: 3
  2. 🦃 “Effect of Feed Supplementation with Riboflavin and Protease Enzyme on Two Physical Heat Stress Parameters of Finishing Turkeys” – Preprints (2025) | DOI: 10.20944/preprints202504.2325.v1 | Cited by: 2
  3. 🐓 “Effect of Different Metabolizable Energy Diets on Broilers’ Growth Performance, Nutrient Digestibility, Organ Weight, Fecal Score and Lesion Score” – Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition (2025) | DOI: 10.1111/jpn.14110 | Cited by: 4

Conclusion

In conclusion, Usman Kayode Kolawole represents a new generation of committed animal scientists whose blend of practical expertise and academic rigor positions him for long-term impact in agricultural research. His recent contributions in feed innovation, animal welfare, and physiology are timely and relevant to both local and global livestock challenges. With growing publication output, international collaboration, and a strong research ethic, Kolawole is a deserving nominee for the Best Researcher Award. He exemplifies the qualities of a forward-thinking, data-driven, and ethically grounded researcher who is poised to contribute significantly to the future of animal science.

Sanjhi Paliwal | Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Sanjhi Paliwal | Biotechnology | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Sanjhi Paliwal | Biotechnology – Assistant Professor at Chitkara University, India

Dr. Sanjhi Paliwal is a distinguished researcher specializing in biotechnology, with a particular focus on molecular biology, bioinformatics, and biochemistry. As an Assistant Professor at Chitkara University, she has established herself as a committed academic and scientist, contributing significantly to the field of veterinary and tropical disease research. With her expertise, she has addressed critical issues such as disease diagnostics and genetic diversity in pathogens. Dr. Paliwal’s work is widely recognized through numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals, making her a trailblazer in her domain.

Profile Verification

ORCID | Google Scholar | Scopus

Education

Dr. Paliwal holds advanced degrees in biotechnology, showcasing her strong academic foundation. Her postgraduate and doctoral studies were centered on cutting-edge research in molecular biology, equipping her with a robust knowledge base and technical expertise. Her education has been complemented by continuous professional development, including workshops and certifications in bioinformatics and advanced molecular diagnostics.

Experience

Dr. Paliwal’s professional journey spans academia and research, marked by her tenure at Chitkara University. She has not only led groundbreaking research projects but has also actively mentored students, fostering a new generation of scientists. As a reviewer for high-impact journals, she has contributed to maintaining scientific integrity in her field. Her work has also involved close collaborations with research institutions, further amplifying her contributions to biotechnology and molecular biology.

Research Interests

Dr. Paliwal’s research is driven by her passion for understanding complex biological processes and finding solutions to global challenges. Her primary focus lies in molecular diagnostics, particularly for tropical diseases affecting both humans and animals. She is deeply invested in exploring the genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships of pathogens, with the aim of developing effective diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates bioinformatics tools and molecular techniques, enabling comprehensive insights into her research questions.

Awards

Dr. Paliwal’s dedication to excellence has been acknowledged through several prestigious awards. She was the recipient of the Best Paper Award in 2021 for her impactful study on bovine theileriosis, and she earned a Poster Presentation Award in 2018 for her work on phylogenetics. These accolades reflect her innovative thinking and the high regard in which her peers hold her contributions. Her achievements stand as a testament to her unwavering commitment to advancing biotechnology.

Publications

Paliwal, S., et al. (2023). “Phylogenetic analysis of bovine theileriosis in Indian cattle.” Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases. Cited by: 35.
Paliwal, S., et al. (2022). “Molecular characterization of tropical diseases in livestock.” Acta Tropica. Cited by: 27.
Paliwal, S., et al. (2021). “Bioinformatics approaches in pathogen diagnostics.” Frontiers in Veterinary Science. Cited by: 20.
Paliwal, S., et al. (2020). “Genetic diversity in pathogens of economic importance.” BMC Veterinary Research. Cited by: 25.
Paliwal, S., et al. (2019). “Innovations in molecular diagnostics for veterinary sciences.” Journal of Veterinary Research. Cited by: 18.
Paliwal, S., et al. (2018). “Comparative analysis of diagnostic tools for tropical diseases.” Acta Tropica. Cited by: 22.
Paliwal, S., et al. (2017). “Applications of molecular techniques in veterinary medicine.” Veterinary Microbiology. Cited by: 15.

Conclusion

Dr. Sanjhi Paliwal is a dedicated and innovative researcher whose contributions have significantly advanced the field of biotechnology. Her work on molecular diagnostics and genetic diversity in tropical diseases has not only enriched scientific understanding but also paved the way for practical applications in veterinary medicine. Recognized for her excellence through multiple awards and impactful publications, Dr. Paliwal exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding woman researcher. Her achievements inspire peers and future scientists alike, making her a deserving candidate for the Women Researcher Award.

Mahsa Darbandi | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Mahsa Darbandi | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral | Hope generation foundation | Iran

Short Biography 🌟

Mahsa Sara Darbandi is a dedicated researcher in the field of reproductive biotechnology, renowned for her expertise in oxidative stress impacts on spermatozoa and genetic, epigenetic, and metabolite status. She holds a Ph.D. from the Avicenna Research Institute, Tehran, Iran, where her doctoral research focused on understanding these complex interactions. Mahsa has furthered her knowledge through international programs like the American Center for Reproductive Medicine (ACRM), enhancing her skills in proteomic analysis and artificial intelligence applications in medicine.

Profile:

ORCID

Education 📚

Mahsa earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Tabriz, Iran, followed by a Master of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Mashhad. Her thesis investigated the effects of electro-acupuncture combined with a low-calorie diet on body weight and plasma leptin levels in obese individuals. Subsequently, she pursued her Ph.D. in Reproductive Biotechnology at the Avicenna Research Institute, where she explored the intricate relationship between oxidative stress and sperm biology.

Experience 💼

Her professional journey includes significant milestones such as the Summer Mentorship Program and ART Training Program at ACRM, Cleveland Clinic, OH, where she honed her skills in laboratory methods and quality assurance in human reproduction. As part of the ACRM Global Researcher Program, Mahsa engaged in meta-analysis projects focusing on male infertility, demonstrating her proficiency in data analysis and scientific writing.

Research Interest 🔬

Mahsa’s research interests encompass the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning in medical image processing and big data analysis, particularly in the context of early cancer detection and personalized medicine for breast and prostate cancers. Her current endeavors at the Hope Generation Foundation in Tehran aim to advance early detection techniques in oncology.

Awards 🏆

Throughout her career, Mahsa has been recognized for her contributions to reproductive biology and male infertility research. Her work has been published in prestigious journals and cited extensively, underscoring her impact on the field.

Publications 📄

  • Publication Title: “Impact of Oxidative Stress on Sperm DNA Integrity and Its Clinical Significance in Male Infertility”
    • Journal: Journal of Reproduction & Infertility
    • Summary: This study explores the detrimental effects of oxidative stress on sperm DNA integrity and its implications for male infertility. It discusses potential clinical interventions to mitigate these effects.
  • Publication Title: “Epigenetic Modifications in Spermatozoa: Potential Implications for Assisted Reproductive Technologies”
    • Journal: Andrologia
    • Summary: This paper reviews epigenetic changes in spermatozoa and their relevance to assisted reproductive technologies (ART). It discusses how these modifications could influence embryo development and reproductive outcomes.
  • Publication Title: “Metabolomic Profiling of Spermatozoa in Men with Varicocele-Associated Infertility”
    • Journal: Systems Biology in Reproductive Medicine
    • Summary: This research employs metabolomic profiling to identify metabolic alterations in spermatozoa from men with varicocele-associated infertility, offering insights into potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
  • Publication Title: “Application of Artificial Intelligence in Medical Image Processing for Early Detection of Breast Cancer”
    • Journal: Journal of Medical Imaging and Health Informatics
    • Summary: This article explores the application of artificial intelligence techniques in medical image processing specifically for early detection of breast cancer, highlighting the potential for improved diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.
  • Publication Title: “Genetic and Epigenetic Biomarkers in Prostate Cancer: Implications for Personalized Medicine”
    • Journal: Current Genomics
    • Summary: This review examines genetic and epigenetic biomarkers associated with prostate cancer, emphasizing their potential utility in personalized medicine approaches for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment selection.