Qian Zhang | Nano-Biomedical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Qian Zhang | Nano-Biomedical Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Shanghai Jiao Tong University | China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Qian Zhang is an accomplished nanomedicine researcher based at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, specializing in the synthesis, surface modification, and biomedical applications of colloidal and magnetic nanomaterials. She earned her Doctor of Science from Philipps-Universität Marburg under Prof. Wolfgang Parak and holds Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees from Sichuan Agriculture University and Qingdao Agriculture University, respectively. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Qian Zhang’s career trajectory includes postdoctoral research, assistant and associate researcher roles at SJTU, and a visiting scientist position at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel. Her research focuses on the design of drug delivery systems integrating diagnosis and treatment, interaction of nanomaterials with cancer cells, and physico-chemical characterization of metal-doped magnetic nanomaterials for MRI applications. She has successfully led multiple national and Shanghai-based research projects, including studies on ferromanganese-based nanocarriers for ferroptosis induction and immunotherapy, heat-induced hybrid iron oxide nanocarriers combined with siRNA for early cancer diagnosis, and urine exosomal drug delivery systems for prostate cancer treatment. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Qian Zhang has authored two influential books and 68 publications in high-impact journals, accruing 4,842 citations with an h-index of 29, reflecting her strong scientific influence. Her work demonstrates remarkable innovation, translational relevance, and international collaboration, establishing her as a leading figure in nanomedicine and targeted cancer therapy.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

Zhang, Q. (2026). Element-doped ferrite nanoparticles: From magnetic property tuning to biomedical applications. Coordination Chemistry Reviews, 548, 217151.

Zhao, Y., Zhang, Q., Zhang, A., Pan, S., Cheng, J., Ning, J., … Wang, C. (2025). A novel near-infrared AP-M@AntiACLY detection probe based on SERS to trace detection of serum ACLY for early diagnosis of pediatric sepsis. Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical.

Jin, Y., Huang, J., Tang, Y., Li, Z., Zhang, A., Yang, Z., … Zhang, Q. (2024). Boosting ferroptosis by intervention of redox balance and synergetic with photothermal/photodynamic therapy for suppression of pancreatic cancer. Chemical Engineering Journal, 497.

[Author(s) not fully listed]. (2024). Flower-shaped magnetic fluorescent nanoparticles based lateral flow biosensor for highly sensitive detection of cardiac troponin I. Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical.

[Author(s) not fully listed]. (2024). An ingestible near-infrared fluorescence capsule endoscopy for specific gastrointestinal diagnoses. Biosensors and Bioelectronics.

 

Pedro Fonte | Nanomedicine | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Pedro Fonte | Nanomedicine | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Pedro Fonte, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, University of Algarve, Portugal

Assist. Prof. Dr. Pedro Fonte is a distinguished researcher in pharmaceutical technology and nanomedicine. He earned his PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences – Nanotechnologies from the University of Porto and the University of Copenhagen in 2016, supported by an FCT scholarship. He is currently an Assistant Professor at the University of Algarve and leads the Biomaterials and Nanomedicine Lab at CCMAR and iBB, IST–ULisboa. With over 63 peer-reviewed publications, 11 book chapters, and an h-index of 31, he has been recognized among the Top 2% Scientists globally by Stanford University/Elsevier since 2021. His research focuses on nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems, having mentored numerous PhD and postdoctoral researchers. He previously held academic and leadership positions at Lusófona University and has contributed to international scientific bodies, including COST and the Science Fund of Serbia. Dr. Fonte is also an editor and author of several scientific books and experimental protocols in his field.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Academic Background

Assist. Prof. Dr. Pedro Fonte has a strong multidisciplinary academic background, integrating pharmaceutical sciences, nanotechnology, and business management. He earned his PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences – Nanotechnologies in 2016 from the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto (Portugal), and the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen (Denmark), under the supervision of Drs. Bruno Sarmento, Salette Reis, and Marco van de Weert. His thesis, titled “Optimization of lyophilization parameters of polymeric nanoparticles for delivery of therapeutic proteins,” was completed with distinction and supported by an FCT scholarship (SFRH/BD/78127/2011). In 2012, he obtained an MBA in Business Management and Administration from Lusíada University, Porto, with a classification of 15 values. Prior to this, he completed an Integrated Master in Pharmaceutical Sciences in 2010 and a Bachelor’s degree in the same field in 2009 at the Advanced Institute of Health Sciences – North, CESPU, Gandra-Prd, Portugal, with classifications of 15 and 14 values, respectively.

Professional Journey

Assist. Prof. Dr. Pedro Fonte has established a distinguished academic and research career in biomaterials and nanomedicine. Since October 2019, he has served as Assistant Professor at the University of Algarve and Group Leader at Fonte’s Lab, affiliated with CCMAR and iBB, both recognized research units in Portugal. He is also an integrated member of CCMAR and a collaborating researcher at iBB. Previously, Dr. Fonte held positions at Lusófona University, including Assistant Professor, Director of the Biomedical Nanoscience Lab, and Group Leader in Biomaterials. He was also affiliated with LAQV/REQUIMTE and UCIBIO/REQUIMTE, both classified as excellent R&D units. His doctoral studies spanned institutions like the University of Porto, University of Copenhagen, and University of Lisbon, supported by FCT grants. Earlier in his career, he undertook multiple internships and fellowships in hospital, community pharmacy, and clinical labs, laying the groundwork for his pioneering work in nanomedicine and drug delivery.

Teaching and Pedagogical Contributions

Prof. Pedro Fonte has made remarkable contributions to academic development through the creation and dissemination of high-quality pedagogical materials in pharmaceutical technology and nanomedicine. His scholarly dedication is evident in the authorship of 11 textbook publications and 4 detailed experimental protocols, which serve as valuable resources for students and researchers alike. He has also contributed 7 encyclopaedia entries and 4 insightful articles to magazines and newsletters, enhancing public and academic understanding of complex scientific topics. Embracing modern educational tools, Prof. Fonte has developed 5 computer applications and 3 experimental prototypes that support interactive learning and research. Furthermore, he has produced a wide array of teaching materials tailored to various educational levels and contexts. His pedagogical work reflects a deep commitment to fostering learning through innovative and accessible content, positioning him as a key academic figure in advancing education in pharmaceutical sciences and nanomedicine across national and international platforms.

Research Focus

Prof. Pedro Fonte’s research is centered on advanced drug delivery systems, with a particular emphasis on nanotechnology, biomaterials, and biopharmaceuticals. His work spans a diverse range of applications, including wound healing, cancer therapy, tuberculosis treatment, and oral and inhalable delivery of therapeutic proteins and peptides. He has made substantial contributions to the development of nanoparticle-based systems, such as PLGA nanoparticles, mesoporous silica carriers, and lipid-based nanostructures, aimed at enhancing the stability, targeting, and bioavailability of drugs. His recent publications highlight innovations in freeze-drying of biopharmaceuticals, mucoadhesive systems, and nanonutraceuticals. Prof. Fonte also explores the biomedical application of sustainable materials like carbon dots in imaging and treatment, demonstrating a strong commitment to translational research. His multidisciplinary collaborations and editorial contributions to high-impact journals and books further emphasize his leading role in pharmaceutical nanotechnology and the development of next-generation therapeutics for chronic and infectious diseases

Publication Top Notes

  • Delivery of therapeutic proteins for wound healing (book chapter, 2024) –ScienceDirect+9OUCI+9cienciavitae.pt+9

  • Drug delivery systems for mouth wound healing (book chapter, 2024) – cienciavitae.pt+1ResearchGate+1

  • Unravelling the drying techniques of protein biopharmaceuticals (book chapter, 2024) –cienciavitae.pt+1ResearchGate+1

  • Inhalable N‑Acetylcysteine‑loaded Lactose‑coated PLGA Nanoparticles for Tuberculosis Treatment (Journal article, 2025) 

  • Impact of chain‑length of sulfhydryl‑modified surface‑decorated surfactants on mucoadhesive nanostructured lipid carriers (Journal article, 2025)

  • Recent advances in antibacterial nanoformulations for endodontic applications (Journal article, 2025) 

  • Camptothecin‑loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles… skin cancer treatment (Journal article, 2024) 

  • Transforming cancer treatment: The potential of nanonutraceuticals (Journal article, 2024) 

 

 

Tianzhu Qiu | Oncology | Women Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Tianzhu Qiu | Oncology | Women Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Tianzhu Qiu, the First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, China

Prof. Dr. Tianzhu Qiu is an esteemed oncology expert with a Ph.D. in Medicine from Nanjing Medical University. She serves as an Associate Chief Physician at Jiangsu Provincial People’s Hospital, specializing in colorectal cancer and immunotherapy. With a strong background in tumor microenvironment studies, mitochondrial autophagy, and immune mechanisms, she has led multiple clinical and translational research projects. She is actively involved in academic leadership, holding key positions in the Chinese Medical Doctor Association and the Chinese Anti-Cancer Association. As a prolific researcher, she has published over 10 SCI-indexed papers, contributed to national guidelines, and received numerous accolades, including the Jiangsu Medical Science and Technology Awards. Dr. Qiu is also a patent holder and a Deputy Editor of medical guidelines, showcasing her contributions to oncology research and healthcare innovation.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

Prof. Dr. Tianzhu Qiu earned her Ph.D. in Medicine from Nanjing Medical University, a leading institution known for its advanced medical research and education. Her academic journey was focused on oncology, particularly exploring colorectal cancer, immunotherapy, and tumor microenvironment mechanisms. During her doctoral studies, she gained expertise in single-cell transcriptomics, proteomics analysis, and high-dimensional immunofluorescence techniques, which have significantly contributed to her research. She further specialized in mitochondrial autophagy and immune response mechanisms, refining her technical skills in bioinformatics and molecular biology. Her Ph.D. research laid the foundation for her later work in translational oncology, where she has made significant breakthroughs in understanding cancer progression and treatment. Through continuous learning and collaboration with global experts, she has positioned herself as a leading figure in oncology research, contributing to both academic and clinical advancements in cancer treatment.

Experience 🏥

Dr. Tianzhu Qiu has extensive experience in oncology, serving as an Associate Chief Physician at Jiangsu Provincial People’s Hospital. She has led clinical and translational research, focusing on colorectal cancer, immunotherapy, and tumor microenvironment studies. Her work involves conducting advanced studies on mitochondrial autophagy and immune mechanisms, aiming to enhance treatment effectiveness and patient outcomes. She has played a key role in multiple national and provincial research projects, acting as Principal Investigator and Co-Investigator. Additionally, she has actively contributed to medical academia, serving as Secretary & Member of the Immunotherapy Committee of Colorectal Cancer and holding leadership positions in oncology-related committees. Her research has been instrumental in developing innovative cancer treatment strategies, and she has contributed to national medical guidelines. Through her experience, Dr. Qiu continues to bridge the gap between fundamental cancer research and clinical application, improving therapies and patient care.

Awards & Honors 🏆

Dr. Tianzhu Qiu has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to oncology with prestigious awards. She has received the First Prize and Second Prize in the Jiangsu Medical Science and Technology Awards for her innovative research in colorectal cancer and immunotherapy. These honors highlight her pioneering work in tumor microenvironment studies, mitochondrial autophagy, and immune response mechanisms. Her groundbreaking research has also earned her multiple research grants and leadership positions in oncology-related committees. As an esteemed researcher, she has been invited to present her work at top conferences, including ASCO-GI and ICIMH. Additionally, she has been granted eight patents for her innovative cancer treatment methodologies. Her contributions to oncology are further acknowledged through her role as Deputy Editor of the CACA Exercise Rehabilitation Guidelines. These accolades solidify her reputation as a leading oncology researcher, continuously advancing cancer treatment strategies.

Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Tianzhu Qiu’s research is centered on colorectal cancer, immunotherapy, and tumor microenvironment dynamics. She has made significant contributions to understanding mitochondrial autophagy and its role in cancer progression. Her work also involves single-cell transcriptomics and proteomics analysis, helping to uncover novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Utilizing advanced techniques such as multiplex immunofluorescence and high-dimensional bioinformatics, she has developed new approaches for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Her research extends into humanized mouse models to study tumor behavior and immune response in real-time. As Principal Investigator and Co-Investigator in multiple national and provincial projects, she has contributed to major advancements in cancer therapy. Her work has been widely published, with over 400 citations in SCI-indexed journals. By bridging molecular research with clinical applications, she continues to drive innovations in precision oncology and immunotherapy, improving outcomes for cancer patients worldwide.

 

Publication Top Notes

1️⃣ Evaluating AI in medicine: a comparative analysis of expert and ChatGPT responses to colorectal cancer questionsScientific Reports, 2024 📆 | Cited by: 10 📑

2️⃣ Neoadjuvant sintilimab and chemotherapy in patients with potentially resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (KEEP-G 03): An open-label, single-arm, phase 2 trialJournal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer, 2023 📆 | Cited by: 42 📑

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Tianzhu Qiu is a highly accomplished researcher in oncology, with significant contributions to colorectal cancer treatment, immunotherapy, and tumor microenvironment studies. Her leadership roles, strong publication record, research innovations, and national recognition make her an outstanding candidate for the Research for Women Researcher Award.