Hyo Jin Yoon | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Hyo Jin Yoon | Genetics | Best Researcher Award 

Clinical Laboratory Scientist, Staff member, at National Radiation Emergency Medical Center, Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences (KIRAMS), South Korea.

Hyo Jin Yoon is an accomplished Clinical Laboratory Scientist with over 15 years of expertise in cytogenetics and biological dosimetry. Based at the National Radiation Emergency Medical Center, Korea Institute of Radiological & Medical Sciences (KIRAMS), she plays a pivotal role in advancing diagnostic and emergency response strategies in radiation exposure cases. Her professional journey includes significant roles at Yonsei University Medical Center and St. Mary’s Hospital. She has been instrumental in developing DiCADE, an AI-driven software for dicentric chromosome analysis, enhancing the accuracy and speed of biodosimetric assessments. A certified ASCPi-IMLT professional, she also serves as a KOLAS Technical Expert for ISO 15189. Through her multidisciplinary approach combining clinical practice, research, and innovation, Hyo Jin continues to elevate global standards in radiation emergency medicine. 🌍🧪💡

Professional Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education 

Hyo Jin began her academic journey in clinical pathology by earning an associate degree from Daejeon Health College, which laid a strong foundation in laboratory sciences. She furthered her education at Eulji University, completing bachelor’s-level coursework with a specialization in medical laboratory technology. Her dedication to professional growth led her to earn the prestigious ASCPi-IMLT certification in 2012, an internationally recognized credential in medical laboratory science. Her continuous pursuit of learning has enabled her to integrate traditional laboratory practices with modern innovations in AI-based diagnostics. 📚👩‍🔬🎓

💼 Experience 

With a distinguished career spanning over 15 years, Hyo Jin Yoon has made significant contributions across clinical, academic, and research domains. She began her professional tenure at Yonsei University Medical Center and later at St. Mary’s Hospital, gaining frontline diagnostic experience in clinical pathology. Since 2015, she has been a core member of the Laboratory of Biodosimetry at KIRAMS-NREME, where she is actively engaged in radiation biodosimetry, diagnostics, and AI-integrated tool development. Her practical insights have been crucial in enhancing laboratory standards and emergency response protocols in radiation medicine. Additionally, as a KOLAS Technical Expert (ISO 15189), she ensures quality and compliance in laboratory operations. 🏥🧬🛡️

🔬 Research Interest

Hyo Jin’s research interests lie at the intersection of cytogenetics, radiation biodosimetry, and medical AI applications. Her core focus is on developing diagnostic tools that improve the biological dose assessment of radiation exposure, particularly during emergencies. Her innovative work on DiCADE—a semi-automated AI-powered dicentric chromosome analysis system—demonstrates her commitment to precision diagnostics. She is deeply involved in international collaboration networks such as RENEB and works with partners like Health Canada and Hirosaki University. Her current research also involves harmonizing scoring standards for cytogenetic assays across biodosimetry networks in South Korea. Her interdisciplinary interests aim to make radiation response faster, more accurate, and globally standardized. 🤖🔎📈

🏆 Awards & Recognitions 

Hyo Jin Yoon’s pioneering work in the field of radiation biodosimetry has earned her respect and recognition across scientific communities. In addition to securing a software copyright for DiCADE (Reg. No. C-2025-019817, dated May 27, 2025), she also has a pending trademark for the tool. As a certified KOLAS Technical Expert, she has contributed to national laboratory quality assurance initiatives. Her participation in international intercomparison exercises with RENEB and Health Canada further reflects her global outreach and credibility. She is a consistent contributor to academic conferences and technical exchange programs, and her work is regarded as a benchmark in South Korea’s preparedness for radiation emergencies. 🥇🔬📜

📚 Top Noted Publications

Hyo Jin Yoon has co-authored six peer-reviewed articles, significantly advancing the field of biological dosimetry:

1. Collaborative Activities in a Biological Dosimetry Network for Radiation Emergencies in South Korea

  • Journal: International Journal of Radiation Biology, 2025

  • Citations: 7

  • Summary:
    This paper presents the establishment and development of a coordinated biological dosimetry network in South Korea. It focuses on preparedness strategies for radiation emergencies, inter-laboratory collaboration, and standardization of methodologies across partner institutions. The paper emphasizes international alignment with IAEA and WHO guidelines and proposes protocols for emergency biodosimetry response.

  • Key Contributions:

    • Strengthens Korea’s radiation emergency response infrastructure.

    • Highlights the importance of capacity building and shared resources.

    • Demonstrates real-case simulations for readiness evaluation.

2. Lessons on Harmonization of Scoring Criteria for Dicentric Chromosome Assay in South Korea

  • Journal: International Journal of Radiation Biology, 2024

  • Citations: 5

  • Summary:
    This study reports on efforts to unify scoring criteria among Korean biodosimetry laboratories for the dicentric chromosome assay (DCA), a key cytogenetic tool in radiation dose assessment. It compares results across labs and discusses discrepancies and consensus-building.

  • Key Contributions:

    • Establishes baseline standards for DCA scoring nationwide.

    • Recommends training protocols and QA practices.

    • Encourages future harmonization with global networks.

3. Application of a Semi-Automated Dicentric Scoring System in Triage and Monitoring Occupational Radiation Exposure

  • Journal: Frontiers in Public Health, 2024

  • Citations: 6

  • Summary:
    This paper evaluates a semi-automated image analysis platform for scoring dicentric chromosomes in metaphase cells. Its application for radiation triage and occupational health surveillance is assessed, showing increased speed and reproducibility.

  • Key Contributions:

    • Reduces manual workload and inter-scorer variability.

    • Supports large-scale triage in radiation emergencies.

    • Offers a model for integrating AI-assisted analysis in routine monitoring.

4. Chromosome Aberration Dynamics in Breast Cancer Patients Treated with Radiotherapy

  • Journal: Mutation Research, 2023

  • Citations: 10

  • Summary:
    This study tracks the temporal profile of chromosome aberrations, including dicentrics and translocations, in breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. It assesses the persistence of aberrations post-treatment as a biomarker of cumulative exposure.

  • Key Contributions:

    • Reveals individual variation in chromosomal response to radiotherapy.

    • Proposes implications for patient-specific radiation sensitivity.

    • Highlights the utility of cytogenetics in post-therapy surveillance.

5. An Intercomparison Exercise to Compare Scoring Criteria and Develop Image Databank for Biodosimetry in South Korea

  • Journal: International Journal of Radiation Biology, 2023

  • Citations: 4

  • Summary:
    This paper documents an inter-laboratory comparison in which multiple Korean institutions scored the same set of metaphase images to assess consistency. It led to the creation of a national image databank to support training and harmonization.

  • Key Contributions:

    • Identifies scoring variability and proposes mitigation strategies.

    • Establishes a digital resource for future reference and QA.

    • Supports IAEA-compliant training infrastructure.

6. Effective Centrifugation Techniques for Improving Metaphase Spreads in Lymphocytopenic Patients

  • Journal: International Journal of Radiation Biology, 2022

  • Citations: 3

  • Summary:
    This methodological paper explores optimized centrifugation protocols to enhance metaphase yield in samples with low lymphocyte counts, such as from immunocompromised or radiotherapy-treated individuals.

  • Key Contributions:

    • Offers practical improvements to sample preparation protocols.

    • Increases metaphase cell quality and scoring accuracy.

    • Beneficial for labs working with difficult patient samples.

Conclusion

Hyo Jin, Yoon demonstrates exceptional dedication to scientific advancement in the field of biological dosimetry, combining clinical excellence with innovative research. Her work in developing AI-driven diagnostic tools and her collaborative efforts in national and international radiation emergency networks make her a highly suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award. With a few strategic steps to broaden her academic leadership, her impact can be even more significant.

Uttam Bahadur Kunwar | Genetics | Young Scientist Award

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Mr. Uttam Bahadur Kunwar | Genetics | Young Scientist Award 

Mr. Uttam Bahadur Kunwar, at Yunnan Agricultural University, Nepal.

Uttam Bahadur Kunwar is a passionate agricultural scientist from Nepal specializing in crop genetics and breeding 🌾. Currently pursuing his Master’s degree at Yunnan Agricultural University, China, his research integrates transcriptomics and metabolomics to improve rice seedling emergence in dryland conditions. With over seven years of field-based research experience in Nepal, he has collaborated with international institutions like CIMMYT and USAID-funded programs. Uttam has played key roles in sustainable farming projects, fertilizer and soil management, and the promotion of resilient agricultural practices. Fluent in English, Chinese, Hindi, and Nepali 🌍, he brings a unique multicultural perspective to agricultural innovation. Known for his dedication and collaborative approach, he is a two-time recipient of the Dayi Outstanding International Student Award and the Yunnan Government Scholarship. Through rigorous research, publications, and community outreach, Uttam is committed to enhancing food security and sustainable agriculture across South Asia.

Professional Profile

ORCID

🎓 Education

Uttam Bahadur Kunwar’s academic path reflects his commitment to agricultural advancement 📚. He is currently a Master’s student in Crop Genetics and Breeding at Yunnan Agricultural University (2022–present), where his thesis focuses on integrating transcriptomics and metabolomics to improve rice seedling emergence under dryland conditions. Previously, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science (IAAS), Tribhuvan University, Nepal (2011–2015), with research on the impact of international migration on farming households. His academic foundation was laid at the National School of Sciences, where he studied Botany (2008–2010), and before that at St. Thomas Higher Secondary School (1998–2008) in Nepalgunj, where he completed his School Leaving Certificate 🧬. His interdisciplinary training in plant science, genetics, and field-based research forms a strong base for tackling the challenges of global food systems.

💼 Professional Experience

With robust field experience across multiple international agriculture projects, Uttam Bahadur Kunwar has made valuable contributions to sustainable farming 🌱. From 2018 to 2023, he worked as a Field Research Technician for CIMMYT-Nepal under the Nepal Seed and Fertilizer Project, conducting trials on fertilizer management for key crops like rice, wheat, maize, and cauliflower. Prior to this, he served as an Agriculture Program Officer at Mercy Corps (PAHAL-USAID project) in 2018, promoting improved vegetable farming, goat husbandry, and pest management in remote regions of Achham, Nepal. Earlier in his career, from 2016 to 2017, he was part of CIMMYT’s CSISA Project in Banke and Bardiya, supporting soil research and technology transfer 🚜. His ability to bridge grassroots challenges with scientific interventions and policy insights has positioned him as a key resource in agriculture-based development initiatives.

🔬 Research Interests

Uttam’s research interests lie at the intersection of molecular biology and sustainable agriculture 🔎. He focuses on crop genetics and breeding, with an emphasis on rice improvement through integrated transcriptomics and metabolomics. Specifically, he investigates nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), root system architecture (RSA), and stress tolerance mechanisms such as drought resilience 🌾. His work aims to address the pressing need for resilient and sustainable cropping systems under changing climatic conditions, particularly in South and Southeast Asia. He is also interested in the genetic mapping of agronomic traits and the application of omics technologies in crop improvement. Uttam’s broader vision includes promoting food security through evidence-based, farmer-centric solutions that are both ecologically and economically viable. His passion for bridging laboratory discoveries with real-world field applications makes him a dynamic researcher and a promising contributor to global agricultural innovation 🌍.

🏅 Awards

Uttam Bahadur Kunwar has been recognized for his academic excellence and international contributions to agricultural science 🏆. He received the Yunnan Provincial Government Scholarship in September 2022, an award granted to top-performing international students pursuing higher education in China. Additionally, he earned the Dayi Outstanding International Student Award twice from Yunnan Agricultural University—in March 2023 and again in October 2023—honoring his academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to research. These accolades underscore his dedication to both scientific inquiry and global collaboration. Through these recognitions, Uttam continues to strengthen his resolve to advance crop science and promote sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in regions vulnerable to climate and food insecurity. His ability to lead and innovate in multicultural academic environments reflects the promising trajectory of his career in agricultural development 🌟.

📚 Top Noted Publications

Uttam Bahadur Kunwar has contributed impactful research publications in peer-reviewed journals, focusing on crop improvement and molecular approaches to sustainability 🌐:

1. Kunwar, U.B., Manzoor, N., Wen, J., & Pandit, N.R. (2025)

Title: Integrating Agronomic and Molecular Advancements to Enhance Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) and Promote Sustainable Rice Production
Journal: Nitrogen
Volume & Issue: 6(2)
Page: 34
Citations: Cited by 5 articles
🔗 Link: [Not provided, placeholder]

Abstract (summary):
This paper discusses the synergistic use of agronomic practices and molecular genetics to improve nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in rice. It highlights current advancements in nitrogen-responsive gene identification, CRISPR-based gene editing, and adaptive fertilization strategies. The study emphasizes the integration of smart agriculture tools, such as remote sensing and data-driven decision-making, to optimize fertilizer input and mitigate environmental damage while enhancing rice yields.

2. Kunwar, U.B., Rahaman Hera, M.H., & Wen, J. (2025)

Title: Root System Architecture (RSA) and Drought Tolerance in Rice: Exploring Genetic Mechanisms and Genomic Approaches for Enhancing RSA
Journal: Asian Journal of Advances in Agricultural Research
Volume & Issue: 25(2)
Pages: 45–58
Citations: Cited by 3 articles
🔗 Link: [Not provided, placeholder]

Abstract (summary):
This article explores the genetic basis of root system architecture (RSA) in rice and its critical role in conferring drought tolerance. It provides a comprehensive review of genes and QTLs (e.g., DRO1, qRT9) influencing deep rooting and lateral root development. The authors also examine advances in genomic selection, GWAS, and marker-assisted breeding to develop drought-resilient rice cultivars.

Conclusion

Uttam Bahadur Kunwar is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Young Scientist Award. He demonstrates a blend of:

  • Technical skill,

  • Field implementation experience,

  • Publication record,

  • Recognition through awards,

  • And a clear research trajectory focused on sustainable agriculture and genetic improvement of crops.

His profile reflects a young scientist committed to solving real-world problems through science, with a solid foundation and great potential for future leadership in the field.

Recommendation: Strongly support his nomination for the award, while encouraging him to build further leadership experiences and international research networks.

King-cheong LAM | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. King-cheong LAM | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Senior Lecturer, at The School of Professional Education and Executive Development (SPEED), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong.

Dr. LAM King-cheong Antony is a seasoned academic currently serving as a Senior Lecturer in the Division of Science, Engineering and Health Studies at the College of Professional and Continuing Education (CPCE), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. With a rich interdisciplinary background in physics and engineering education, Dr. Lam has consistently contributed to innovative teaching methods and research initiatives. His career journey from a secondary school teacher to a respected university lecturer is marked by dedication to student development, academic leadership, and community outreach. 📘 His roles as Programme Leader and Co-Investigator in prestigious funded projects reflect his commitment to applied research and educational advancement. Through his work in nanotechnology, sustainable energy, and smart sensor systems, Dr. Lam exemplifies a professional devoted to shaping the future of science education and technology for sustainable urban living. 🌱

Professional Profile

Scopus

ORCID

🎓 Education

Dr. Antony Lam’s academic path is built on a solid foundation in science and education. 🎓 He earned his Doctor of Philosophy from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University in 2017, where he focused on gas sensing materials using graphene-based composites. Prior to that, he completed his Master of Philosophy (2008) and Bachelor of Science in Physics (2005) at The University of Hong Kong, establishing his grounding in physical sciences. Recognizing the importance of pedagogy in science, he also pursued a Postgraduate Diploma in Education from The University of Hong Kong in 2010, equipping himself with the skills to bridge research and teaching. This rare blend of scientific rigor and educational expertise empowers him to mentor students and lead cross-disciplinary research with confidence. 🧠 His training has laid the foundation for a career devoted to both scientific discovery and academic development.

💼 Experience

Dr. Lam’s professional career spans across secondary and tertiary education sectors. 🏫 From 2007 to 2012, he began his journey as a science teacher at Heung To Secondary School (TKO), where he nurtured young minds with enthusiasm for physics. In 2018, he transitioned to higher education as a Lecturer at CPCE, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and was promoted to Senior Lecturer in 2024. Over the years, Dr. Lam has taken on several key academic leadership roles, including Programme Leader for Associate in Engineering and Higher Diploma in Aircraft Services Engineering, and Assistant Programme Leader for the BEng (Hons) in Mechanical Engineering. 💼 These positions not only reflect his pedagogical expertise but also his capability in curriculum innovation and academic governance. Dr. Lam’s dedication to bridging practical engineering with academic training is central to his career mission of advancing applied science education. ⚙️

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Lam’s research interests lie at the intersection of nanotechnology, green energy, sustainable materials, and smart sensing systems. 🌍 His work explores the fabrication of advanced materials such as tin-based perovskites, graphene composites, and aluminum-ion batteries to enhance energy efficiency and sensor capabilities. A significant part of his research addresses real-world sustainability challenges—ranging from developing natural fiber/concrete composites for eco-friendly buildings to ionic-liquid-based gas sensors for smart cities. 🏙️ He is also actively investigating thermal and mechanical properties of biomaterials, including mycelium-based composites for biomedical applications. His interdisciplinary approach combines physics, chemistry, and engineering to produce applicable technologies for energy and healthcare sectors. Through multiple funded projects and international conferences, Dr. Lam has established himself as a researcher committed to translational science for societal impact. 🌱

🏅 Awards

Dr. Lam’s research excellence has earned him both institutional recognition and competitive external grants. 🏆 In 2023, he received the KML Third Prize (HK$200,000) from the Koo Meng Li and Koo Mi Wen Na Charitable Foundation Limited for his project on natural fiber/concrete composites for sustainable buildings. He has been a Principal Investigator and Co-Investigator in numerous high-impact projects, including a nearly HK$1 million RGC-funded project on mycelium-based insoles for diabetic care. 💰 These awards and grants highlight his innovative work in sustainable technology and material science. Dr. Lam’s recognition not only reflects his technical acumen but also his leadership in building collaborative, real-world solutions. His consistent involvement in cutting-edge research underscores his role as a forward-thinking academic in science and engineering education. 🧪

📚 Top Noted Publications

Dr. Lam has contributed to a number of peer-reviewed journals and conferences in the fields of materials science, physics, and engineering education. His most cited works involve graphene-based sensors, perovskite solar cells, and AR learning systems. 📖 His publication list includes:

1. Ahmed, S. B., Kan, H. W., Lam, K. C., & Yip, C. T. (2025)

Title: Charge-induced isomerization in alkyl imine molecular motors: a reduced energy barrier approach
Journal: RSC Advances, 15(10), 8053–8059.

  • Focus: Investigates charge-induced isomerization mechanisms in alkyl imine-based molecular motors.

  • Contribution: Proposes a novel approach to reducing the energy barrier for directional motion.

  • Significance: Offers insights into molecular machines and nanoscale actuation.

2. Wang, Y. D., et al., incl. Lam, K. C. (2024)

Title: Direct manipulation of diffusion in colloidal glasses via quasi-particle-like defects
Journal: Physical Review E, 110(6), 064603.

  • Focus: Explores defect-driven dynamics in colloidal glasses.

  • Contribution: Demonstrates how quasi-particle-like defects can directly control diffusion.

  • Significance: Advances fundamental understanding of amorphous materials and soft matter physics.

3. Li, K. C., Lam, K. C., et al. (2024)

Title: Designing ultrathin ferromagnetic nanowires for Majorana mode studies
Journal: Results in Physics, Article ID 107322.

  • Focus: Investigates ferromagnetic nanowires for potential topological quantum computing applications.

  • Contribution: Proposes new nanowire designs optimized for stabilizing Majorana zero modes.

  • Significance: Supports progress in solid-state quantum computation.

4. Lo, K., Ng, J., Chau, & Lam, A. (2023)

Title: AR-based mobile learning for electrical fundamentals
Journal: Journal of Online Engineering Education, 14(2), 01–12.

  • Focus: Combines augmented reality (AR) with mobile learning for engineering education.

  • Contribution: Assesses effectiveness of interactive AR tools for teaching basic electrical concepts.

  • Significance: Enhances engagement and learning outcomes in STEM education.

5. Lam, K. C., Huang, B., & Shi, S. Q. (2017)

Title: Room-temperature methane gas sensing with graphene-SnO₂
Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry A, 5, 11131–11142.

  • Focus: Develops graphene-SnO₂ composites for methane sensing at ambient temperature.

  • Contribution: Demonstrates high sensitivity and fast response/recovery cycles.

  • Significance: Highly cited (over 300 citations on Google Scholar)—a foundational paper in gas sensor development using nanomaterials.

Conclusion

Dr. LAM King-cheong Antony is highly suitable for consideration for a Best Researcher Award. His record showcases a consistent trajectory of impactful, interdisciplinary research, successful funding, academic service, and innovation. With growing momentum in both fundamental and applied sciences, and continued leadership within CPCE, he exemplifies the qualities of a committed and forward-thinking researcher. Acknowledging him with such an award would recognize not only his past achievements but also encourage his ongoing contributions to science and engineering.

Matija Rijavec | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

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Assist Prof Dr . Matija Rijavec | Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Development and Research Associate , University Clinic Golnik , Slovenia.

Matija Rijavec is a Development and Research Associate, serving as an Assistant Professor at the University Clinic for Respiratory and Allergic Diseases Golnik and the Biotechnical Faculty at the University of Ljubljana, Slovenia. His expertise lies in the fields of immunology and genetics, particularly related to complex diseases such as hereditary angioedema, asthma, and cystic fibrosis. Throughout his career, Matija has led several research projects, contributed to clinical guidelines, and authored numerous scientific publications.

Profile

ORCiD

Education

🎓 Matija completed his B.Sc. in Microbiology in 2004 and Ph.D. in Biomedicine in 2010 at the Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana. His academic achievements were recognized with the Krka prize for his Ph.D. In 2015, Matija was promoted to Assistant Professor of Immunology at the Biotechnical Faculty, reflecting his commitment to academia and research.

Professional Experience

🧪 Over his career, Matija has been involved in five completed research projects (leading one) and four ongoing projects (also leading one). His collaborative work includes contributions to the Hereditary Angioedema Variant Curation Expert Panel (HAE VCEP), part of the Clinical Genome Resource (ClinGen). In addition to research, he holds editorial roles in various esteemed journals, including Frontiers in Immunology and Human Gene.

Research Interests

🔍 Matija’s research focuses on the genetics and immunology of complex diseases such as allergy, hereditary angioedema, asthma, COPD, and cystic fibrosis. His work employs cutting-edge molecular biology techniques like DNA sequencing, PCR, and NGS, aiming to discover novel biomarkers for disease diagnosis and prediction.

Awards and Recognitions

🏅 Matija has earned several prestigious awards, including the Krka Prize for his Ph.D., three International Medis awards, and the ARIS award for Outstanding Scientific Achievements. He has also been recognized for his work at international conferences, receiving Best Poster awards at prominent events like the EAACI Workshop.

Publications

📚 Matija has published 78 scientific papers in high-impact journals, reflecting his significant contributions to immunology and genetics. Some of his notable publications include:

  • Rijavec, M., et al. (2023) – “Genetic Markers in Hereditary Angioedema” Journal of Clinical Immunology – Cited by 58 articles.
  • Rijavec, M., et al. (2022) – “Novel Biomarkers in Pulmonary Fibrosis” Respiratory Research – Cited by 45 articles.
  • Rijavec, M., et al. (2021) – “Role of mRNA Profiles in Asthma” Frontiers in Immunology – Cited by 34 articles.

Conclusion

Matija Rijavec is an exceptionally qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on his outstanding contributions to immunology, genetics, and molecular biology. His robust publication record, editorial appointments, leadership in research projects, and international recognition make him a strong contender. However, increasing his engagement in industry projects, patent filings, and book authorship could further solidify his candidacy.