Dr. Heng Zhang | Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award
Lecturer | Nankai University | China
Dr. Zhang Heng is a Lecturer in Pharmacology at Nankai University, specializing in investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying malignant tumor progression and developing innovative drug therapies. He earned his B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Nankai University, completing his doctoral studies with high distinction. Since joining the faculty as a lecturer, he has been actively engaged in teaching, mentoring, and advancing cutting-edge cancer research. Dr. Zhang has published multiple high-impact papers in prestigious SCI-indexed journals, including Molecular Cell, Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy, and Advanced Materials. His scholarly contributions include original research on extrachromosomal DNA, tumor stem cell propagation, and nanomedicine-based immunotherapy. He also holds four patent applications and has received several top academic and innovation awards. Through his research and academic leadership, Dr. Zhang continues to make significant contributions toward improving the understanding of cancer biology and developing novel therapeutic strategies for clinical application.
Professional Profile
Education
Dr. Zhang Heng pursued his higher education entirely at Nankai University, a leading institution in China recognized for excellence in pharmaceutical research. He began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, where he built a strong foundation in pharmacology, molecular biology, and medicinal chemistry. Continuing at Nankai, he completed his Master of Science degree, focusing on the molecular biology of tumors and early drug discovery methodologies. His master’s research involved extensive laboratory experiments, including molecular cloning, protein analysis, and tumor cell line studies. Dr. Zhang then earned his Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, conducting advanced research on the molecular mechanisms driving cancer progression and identifying new targets for therapeutic intervention. His doctoral studies resulted in multiple publications in internationally recognized journals. This academic path, marked by consistent excellence and research productivity, has equipped him with the knowledge and skills essential for his role as an independent researcher and educator.
Experience
Following the completion of his doctoral studies, Dr. Zhang Heng was appointed Lecturer at the College of Pharmacy, Nankai University. In this role, he has been responsible for delivering lectures in pharmacology, supervising undergraduate and graduate students, and leading research initiatives in molecular oncology. He has designed and managed multiple research projects, often collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, and has successfully bridged fundamental science with translational medicine. His experience encompasses conducting high-level molecular biology research, managing laboratory operations, and contributing to scientific publications as both first and corresponding author. He has filed patents for innovative drug delivery systems and tumor immunotherapies, demonstrating the applied impact of his work. Beyond laboratory research, Dr. Zhang has participated in national-level innovation competitions and academic conferences, presenting his findings to peers and experts in the field. His experience reflects a balance of teaching excellence, research innovation, and contribution to the broader scientific community.
Research Interest
Dr. Zhang Heng’s research interests lie at the intersection of cancer biology, molecular pharmacology, and drug innovation. He investigates the fundamental mechanisms that drive the malignant progression of tumors, including the role of extrachromosomal DNA, R-loop dynamics, and vasculogenic mimicry. His work also explores how specific proteins and epigenetic factors regulate tumor growth, immune evasion, and stem cell maintenance. In addition to basic research, Dr. Zhang focuses on developing new therapeutic strategies, such as tumor-targeted nanomedicines, biomimetic exosomes, and in situ tumor vaccines. He aims to integrate these novel approaches into translational medicine frameworks, ultimately leading to more effective, personalized cancer treatments. His interdisciplinary methodology combines molecular biology, pharmacology, nanotechnology, and immunotherapy, with the overarching goal of creating clinically applicable solutions for some of the most aggressive and treatment-resistant cancers. This research focus reflects both scientific curiosity and a commitment to advancing healthcare outcomes.
Award
Dr. Zhang Heng has been recognized for his outstanding research achievements, innovative contributions, and academic excellence through multiple prestigious awards. He received the Second Prize of the Tianjin Science and Technology Progress Award, which acknowledges impactful scientific advancements with practical applications. His innovative work in drug development and cancer therapy earned him the Gold Award at the China International “Internet Plus” Innovation and Entrepreneurship Competition. In recognition of his leadership, scientific merit, and contributions to society, he was awarded the Tianjin May Fourth Youth Medal. While a student, Dr. Zhang received the Zhou Enlai Scholarship, the highest honor granted by Nankai University, and was named Nankai University Student of the Year. These distinctions highlight not only his research excellence but also his dedication to innovation, community engagement, and the advancement of pharmacological sciences on both a national and international level.
Top Noted Publication
Dr. Zhang Heng has authored a series of impactful publications in high-ranking scientific journals, contributing significantly to the fields of molecular oncology and drug development. His research outputs span mechanistic cancer biology studies, novel therapeutic approaches, and the application of nanotechnology in tumor immunotherapy. These publications have been cited in multiple peer-reviewed articles, demonstrating their influence within the global scientific community. His work continues to inform and inspire ongoing research in cancer treatment innovation.
Publications list (single-line prompt):
Title: Extrachromosomal DNA biogenesis is dependent on DNA looping and religation by YY1–Lig3–PARylation complex
Journal: Molecular Cell
Year: 2025
Title: MTA2 triggered R-loop trans-regulates BDH1-mediated β-hydroxybutyrylation and potentiates propagation of hepatocellular carcinoma stem cells
Journal: Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy
Year: 2021
Title: Biomimetic Immunosuppressive Exosomes that Inhibit Cytokine Storms Contribute to the Alleviation of Sepsis
Journal: Advanced Materials
Year: 2022
Title: Magnetic sculpture-like tumor cell vaccines enable targeted in situ immune activation and potent antitumor effects
Journal: Theranostics
Year: 2025
Title: Vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) hijacks Twist1 to inhibit vasculogenic mimicry in hepatocellular carcinoma
Journal: Theranostics
Year: 2024
Conclusion
Dr. Zhang Heng is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His combination of scientific excellence, innovation, and societal impact aligns well with the award’s criteria. With continued growth in global collaboration and academic leadership, he has the potential to become a leading figure in pharmacology and cancer research worldwide.