Lei Yang | Oncology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Lei Yang | Oncology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Lei Yang | Guangzhou Medical University | China

Prof. Lei Yang, Ph.D. supervisor at Guangzhou Medical University, is a distinguished researcher specializing in respiratory disease biomarkers and epidemiology. Recognized as a Guangdong “Special Support Plan” Young Talent, he has led multiple NSFC projects, contributed to national R&D programs, and authored over 69 publications with an H-index of 27. His innovations include patents, software copyrights, and a lung cancer detection kit, significantly advancing early diagnosis and precision medicine. He also actively serves on professional committees, contributing to cancer research and public health.

Profiles

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Early Academic Pursuits

Prof. Lei Yang demonstrated strong academic promise early in his career, pursuing studies in biomedical sciences and respiratory medicine. His scholarly journey led him to specialize in biomarker screening and epidemiology, laying the foundation for impactful research in respiratory diseases. His early academic training not only strengthened his expertise in data analysis and disease mechanisms but also prepared him for future leadership roles in medical research and innovation.

Professional Endeavors

Currently a Professor at Guangzhou Medical University and PhD supervisor, Prof. Yang has made significant professional strides in the field of respiratory disease research. Recognized as a Guangdong “Special Support Plan” Young Talent, he has successfully led five NSFC projects, participated in national key R&D programs, and collaborated on major initiatives such as the Precision Medicine Research Special Project. His professional journey reflects a balance of teaching, mentoring, and high-impact research.

Contributions and Research Focus

Prof. Yang’s research focus lies in the screening of biomarkers for respiratory diseases, with special emphasis on lung cancer early detection and high-risk population identification. His team systematically explored the diagnostic value of plasma exosomal non-coding RNAs, leading to the development of a detection kit for clinical application. Moreover, his genome-wide association studies (GWAS) identified novel genetic susceptibility loci, enriching the understanding of lung cancer pathogenesis and paving the way for precision screening and treatment strategies.

Impact and Influence

The impact of Prof. Yang’s work is evident in both scientific advancement and clinical practice. With over 69 publications, including articles in prestigious journals like the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, his research has been widely cited, achieving an H-index of 27. His contributions have advanced early diagnostic methods, enhanced understanding of genetic risk factors, and influenced public health strategies for respiratory diseases. His achievements continue to shape the future of oncology and respiratory medicine in China and beyond.

Research Skills

Prof. Yang is proficient in biomarker discovery, molecular epidemiology, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and large-scale data analysis. His expertise extends to the design and implementation of cohort studies, as seen in his involvement in the South China chronic disease prospective cohort project. Additionally, his ability to integrate laboratory research with clinical application demonstrates strong translational research skills that contribute to real-world healthcare solutions.

Awards and Honors

Prof. Yang has received several prestigious honors, including the Ministry of Education Natural Science Second Prize. His recognition as a Guangdong “Special Support Plan” Young Talent underscores his leadership in medical research. He also holds two patents and three software copyrights, reflecting his innovative contributions to respiratory health diagnostics. These accolades highlight both his scientific excellence and his role as a pioneer in translational medicine.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Prof. Yang’s legacy is being built through his groundbreaking work in lung cancer diagnostics and biomarker innovation. His future contributions are likely to further advance precision medicine, strengthen population-based cohort studies, and drive clinical applications of novel biomarkers. By integrating cutting-edge genomic research with practical medical solutions, Prof. Yang is set to leave a lasting mark on respiratory disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, inspiring the next generation of medical researchers and innovators.

Publications Top Notes

Title: A genome-wide association study identifies two new lung cancer susceptibility loci at 13q12.12 and 22q12.2 in Han Chinese
Journal: Nature Genetics 43 (8), 792–796 (2011)
Citations: 432
Authors: Z Hu, C Wu, Y Shi, H Guo, X Zhao, Z Yin, L Yang, J Dai, L Hu, W Tan, Z Li, …

Title: Overexpression of lncRNA IGFBP4–1 reprograms energy metabolism to promote lung cancer progression
Journal: Molecular Cancer 16 (1), 154 (2017)
Citations: 130
Authors: B Yang, L Zhang, Y Cao, S Chen, J Cao, D Wu, J Chen, H Xiong, Z Pan, L Yang, …

Title: A functional polymorphism at microRNA-629-binding site in the 3′-untranslated region of NBS1 gene confers an increased risk of lung cancer in Chinese
Journal: Carcinogenesis 33 (2), 338–347 (2012)
Citations: 107
Authors: L Yang, Y Li, M Cheng, D Huang, J Zheng, B Liu, X Ling, Q Li, X Zhang, …

Title: MicroRNA-152 targets DNA methyltransferase 1 in NiS-transformed cells via a feedback mechanism
Journal: Carcinogenesis 34 (2), 446–453 (2013)
Citations: 91
Authors: W Ji, L Yang, J Yuan, L Yang, M Zhang, D Qi, X Duan, A Xuan, W Zhang, …

Title: Common genetic variation in ETV6 is associated with colorectal cancer susceptibility
Journal: Nature Communications 7 (1), 11478 (2016)
Citations: 89
Authors: M Wang, D Gu, M Du, Z Xu, S Zhang, L Zhu, J Lu, R Zhang, J Xing, X Miao, L Yang, …

Title: Identification of three circular RNA cargoes in serum exosomes as diagnostic biomarkers of non–small-cell lung cancer in the Chinese population
Journal: The Journal of Molecular Diagnostics 22 (8), 1096–1108 (2020)
Citations: 85
Authors: J Xian, W Su, L Liu, B Rao, M Lin, Y Feng, F Qiu, J Chen, Q Zhou, Z Zhao, L Yang, …

Title: Association between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer: a case-control study in Southern Chinese and a meta-analysis
Journal: PLoS One 7 (9), e46144 (2012)
Citations: 81
Authors: H Wang, L Yang, L Zou, D Huang, Y Guo, M Pan, Y Tan, H Zhong, W Ji, …

Title: Functional genetic variations in the IL-23 receptor gene are associated with risk of breast, lung and nasopharyngeal cancer in Chinese populations
Journal: Carcinogenesis 33 (12), 2409–2416 (2012)
Citations: 79
Authors: J Zheng, L Jiang, L Zhang, L Yang, J Deng, Y You, N Li, H Wu, W Li, J Lu, …

Title: A functional copy-number variation in MAPKAPK2 predicts risk and prognosis of lung cancer
Journal: The American Journal of Human Genetics 91 (2), 384–390 (2012)
Citations: 79
Authors: B Liu, L Yang, B Huang, M Cheng, H Wang, Y Li, D Huang, J Zheng, Q Li, …

Title: NFκB1 and NFκBIA Polymorphisms Are Associated with Increased Risk for Sporadic Colorectal Cancer in a Southern Chinese Population
Journal: PLoS One 6 (6), e21726 (2011)
Citations: 79
Authors: S Song, D Chen, J Lu, J Liao, Y Luo, Z Yang, X Fu, X Fan, Y Wei, L Yang, …

Title: The polymorphism and haplotypes of PIN1 gene are associated with the risk of lung cancer in southern and eastern Chinese populations
Journal: Human Mutation 32 (11), 1299–1308 (2011)
Citations: 71
Authors: J Lu, L Yang, H Zhao, B Liu, Y Li, H Wu, Q Li, B Zeng, Y Wang, W Ji, …

Title: A functional copy number variation in the WWOX gene is associated with lung cancer risk in Chinese
Journal: Human Molecular Genetics 22 (9), 1886–1894 (2013)
Citations: 68
Authors: L Yang, B Liu, B Huang, J Deng, H Li, B Yu, F Qiu, M Cheng, H Wang, …

Title: A Sequence Polymorphism in miR-608 Predicts Recurrence after Radiotherapy for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Journal: Cancer Research 73 (16), 5151–5162 (2013)
Citations: 61
Authors: J Zheng, J Deng, M Xiao, L Yang, L Zhang, Y You, M Hu, N Li, H Wu, W Li, …

Title: A microRNA-135a/b binding polymorphism in CD133 confers decreased risk and favorable prognosis of lung cancer in Chinese by reducing CD133 expression
Journal: Carcinogenesis 34 (10), 2292–2299 (2013)
Citations: 51
Authors: M Cheng, L Yang, R Yang, X Yang, J Deng, B Yu, D Huang, S Zhang, …

Conclusion

Prof. Lei Yang is a distinguished researcher whose work on respiratory disease biomarkers and lung cancer early detection has made significant scientific and clinical impact. With an impressive record of 69 publications, H-index of 27, multiple patents, and national-level projects, he has demonstrated innovation and leadership in advancing precision medicine. While greater international collaborations and industry partnerships could further enhance his global presence, his strong achievements make him highly suitable for the Research for Best Researcher Award.

Dukagjin Blakaj | Oncology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Dukagjin Blakaj | Oncology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Dukagjin Blakaj | The Ohio State University | United States

Dr. Dukagjin M. Blakaj is a visionary leader in radiation oncology, currently serving as the Drs. Malati and Ganesh Potdar Endowed Professor and Vice Chair of Clinical Operations at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center. Renowned for advancing proton therapy and translational cancer research, he has overseen exponential growth in departmental faculty, revenue, and NIH funding since joining in 2013. His leadership has transformed clinical operations, implemented strategic innovations, and significantly expanded clinical trial participation. Dr. Blakaj has mentored numerous faculty and fellows, initiated multi-disciplinary research collaborations, and secured millions in philanthropic and research funding. An influential educator and administrator, he also directs fellowships in Head & Neck, CNS/Pediatric, and IORT radiation oncology. Beyond his institutional impact, he serves on national committees and journal boards, shaping the future of cancer research and care. His work exemplifies excellence in clinical innovation, academic mentorship, and collaborative leadership across the oncology landscape.

Profile

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Education

Dr. Dukagjin Blakaj holds a distinguished academic background with dual advanced degrees in medicine and science. He earned his M.D. and Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, where he also completed a Master of Science in Biochemistry. Prior to that, he obtained both his Master of Arts and Bachelor of Arts degrees in Chemistry and Molecular Biology & Biophysics from Wesleyan University. His academic excellence is reflected in numerous accolades, including the Rudin Scholarship and Dean’s Recognition Award. He completed his internship in internal medicine at Mount Sinai Beth Israel Medical Center and a residency in radiation oncology at Montefiore-Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center. Further, he undertook a post-doctoral fellowship focused on HPV epidemiology and therapeutic vaccine development. Dr. Blakaj’s academic training is complemented by multiple faculty leadership and coaching certifications, which have equipped him with the strategic and educational tools to excel as a clinical and academic leader in oncology.

Experience

With over a decade of experience at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Dr. Dukagjin Blakaj has held progressive leadership roles, including Director of Head & Neck/Skull Base Division, Director of Clinical Operations, and currently Vice Chair of Clinical Operations. Under his guidance, the department expanded from 13 to 51 faculty members, increased revenue by over 450%, and tripled NIH funding. He has played a pivotal role in enhancing operational efficiencies, developing data lakes for research, and implementing standardized procedures across divisions. As a fellowship director in multiple subspecialties, he has trained future leaders in radiation oncology. His innovative leadership has advanced FLASH radiotherapy, Theranostics, and multidisciplinary care models. Dr. Blakaj also serves as Co-PI on several clinical trials and large-scale grants, leading to substantial contributions in patient care and translational research. His collaborative, data-driven approach continues to drive excellence in academic medicine and clinical cancer care.

Research Interests

Dr. Dukagjin Blakaj’s research spans translational oncology, radiation therapy innovations, and molecular mechanisms of treatment resistance. He focuses extensively on head and neck, skull base, and spine malignancies, leading efforts to develop precision radiation protocols and novel therapeutic strategies. His research has garnered over $5 million in funding, supporting groundbreaking clinical trials, including studies on FLASH radiotherapy, immunotherapy combinations, and stereotactic treatments. He is Principal or Co-Investigator on numerous NIH, industry-sponsored, and institutional grants addressing treatment optimization, radio-sensitization, and rare cancer biology. His work includes building large-scale clinical databases and integrating radiomic and molecular data into patient care models. He co-leads the PARTNER protocol to create a comprehensive data lake for translational research. His commitment to collaborative research has elevated institutional trial accruals and contributed to over 200 peer-reviewed publications. Through mentorship, innovation, and cross-disciplinary collaboration, Dr. Blakaj is advancing personalized oncologic care on both clinical and molecular fronts.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Dukagjin Blakaj has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing his contributions to oncology, research, and education. Notably, he received the James Outstanding Physician Peer Award for his leadership, professionalism, and collaborative spirit. He has consistently ranked among the top 10% of most published and cited doctors on Doximity (2021–2024) and was named a Top Doctor nationally in 2021. His article in Practical Radiation Oncology was selected for Elsevier’s Head & Neck Cancer Awareness Month feature. Additional accolades include the Best Teacher Award at the Osler Board Review Course, the Samuel J. Roessler Memorial Scholarship, and multiple abstract and travel awards from ASTRO, ACRO, and other leading organizations. He was also a finalist for the 2021 International Book Awards for his leadership publication. His early academic excellence was recognized through fellowships from the American Heart Association, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, and the International Biophysical Society, setting the foundation for his distinguished career.

 Publications Top Notes

Radiotherapy plus cetuximab or cisplatin in human papillomavirus-positive oropharyngeal cancer (NRG Oncology RTOG 1016): a randomised, multicentre, non-inferiority trial

Reduced-dose radiation therapy for HPV-associated oropharyngeal carcinoma (NRG Oncology HN002)

Phase IIb, randomized, double-blind trial of GC4419 versus placebo to reduce severe oral mucositis due to concurrent radiotherapy and cisplatin for head and neck cancer

Time to surgery and survival in head and neck cancer

Oral mucositis in head and neck cancer: Evidence-based management and review of clinical trial data

Combined nivolumab and ipilimumab with or without stereotactic body radiation therapy for advanced Merkel cell carcinoma: a randomised, open label, phase 2 trial

NRG-HN002: a randomized phase II trial for patients with p16-positive, non-smoking-associated, locoregionally advanced oropharyngeal cancer

Single-isocenter multitarget stereotactic radiosurgery is safe and effective in the treatment of multiple brain metastases

Molecular dynamics and thermodynamics of protein−RNA interactions: Mutation of a conserved aromatic residue modifies stacking interactions and structural adaptation in the U1A protein

Application of an interstitial and biodegradable balloon system for prostate-rectum separation during prostate cancer radiotherapy: a prospective multi-center study

Organ preservation for advanced larynx cancer: A review of chemotherapy and radiation combination strategies

A phase 1 trial of Vorinostat in combination with concurrent chemoradiation therapy in the treatment of advanced staged head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Evolutionary and biophysical relationships among the papillomavirus E2 proteins

Emerging concepts and novel strategies in radiation therapy for laryngeal cancer management

A digital twin for simulating the vertebroplasty procedure and its impact on mechanical stability of vertebra in cancer patients

Conclusion

Dr. Dukagjin M. Blakaj stands as a leading force in academic radiation oncology, seamlessly integrating clinical excellence, visionary leadership, and groundbreaking research. His transformative impact at The Ohio State University has resulted in institutional growth, enriched patient care, and elevated academic standards. A dedicated mentor and educator, he has cultivated the next generation of oncology leaders through innovative fellowships and global mentorship. His expansive research portfolio spans molecular biology, clinical trials, and AI-driven data analysis, reflecting a commitment to precision medicine and translational impact. Recognized nationally and internationally for his achievements, Dr. Blakaj continues to shape the future of radiation oncology through strategic leadership, collaborative partnerships, and compassionate care. His efforts exemplify how visionary thinking, paired with operational excellence, can revolutionize patient outcomes and institutional success. Dr. Blakaj remains a beacon of excellence in medicine, embodying the ideals of academic leadership, research innovation, and unwavering dedication to improving human health.

Yudai Shimojukkoku | Oncology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yudai Shimojukkoku | Oncology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yudai Shimojukkoku, Saitama Cancer Center, Japan.

Dr. Shimojukkoku Yudai 🧑‍🔬 is a dedicated cancer researcher at Saitama Cancer Center and Kagoshima University. His work focuses on oral squamous cell carcinoma, exploring the tumor microenvironment and identifying novel biomarkers 🧫. He collaborates with renowned experts like Prof. Sasahira, advancing both basic and clinical research. His contributions aim to bridge the gap between oral health and systemic diseases such as diabetes 🦷❤️. Dr. Yudai’s research is paving the way for innovative cancer diagnostics and treatments. 🌟

Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Shimojukkoku Yudai embarked on his academic journey with a deep-rooted passion for medical sciences, particularly in oncology. He demonstrated an early commitment to understanding the biological mechanisms of cancer, eventually focusing his expertise on oral squamous cell carcinoma. His educational background provided a strong foundation in both clinical and molecular pathology, setting the stage for a career centered on bridging lab-based discoveries with real-world clinical applications.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Currently affiliated with the Saitama Cancer Center and Kagoshima University’s Department of Molecular and Oral Pathology, Dr. Yudai combines research with clinical responsibilities. He is deeply involved in improving diagnostic techniques and therapeutic approaches in oral cancer. His daily work integrates patient-centered care with experimental exploration, ensuring translational relevance of his research.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus On Oncology 

Dr. Yudai’s research targets the tumor microenvironment and identification of novel biomarkers in oral cancer. He has led and participated in both in vitro and in vivo studies, as well as computational analyses (in silico) to discover two previously unidentified markers that have since influenced ongoing investigative studies. His active collaboration with renowned cancer researcher Prof. Sasahira has further enhanced his research on the link between oral cancer and periodontal disease, and the complex relationship between cancer progression and diabetes mellitus.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Although early in his career, Dr. Yudai’s work has begun to leave a significant impact in the field of oral oncology. His insights are contributing to the evolving understanding of how systemic diseases and oral cancer interact. His research, while currently limited in citation due to its recent publication, presents promising implications for clinical diagnostics and personalized cancer therapy. His focus on translational outcomes ensures his findings are poised to improve patient outcomes in the near future.

🧠 Research Skills

Dr. Yudai demonstrates a versatile skill set encompassing molecular biology, histopathology, bioinformatics, and clinical oncology. He is adept at designing and executing comprehensive experimental workflows and data interpretation. His capacity to blend clinical insights with molecular discoveries makes him a valuable asset in precision medicine research.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Yudai is actively seeking recognition in categories such as the Young Scientist Award, Best Researcher Award, Outstanding Scientist Award, and Best Research Scholar Award. His self-motivated dedication, impactful publications, and meaningful collaborations make him a strong contender for these accolades. His contributions signify excellence in early-stage cancer research.

🏛️ Legacy and Future Contributions

As he advances, Dr. Yudai aims to pioneer new diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets that can revolutionize the treatment of oral cancers. His collaborative spirit and interdisciplinary research vision promise continued contributions to global cancer research. With a commitment to both innovation and patient care, he is laying a foundation that could influence generations of oncological practice and research.

Publications Top Notes

📘 Title: MCTP2 is a novel biomarker promoting tumor progression and nodal metastasis in oral squamous cell carcinoma
🧑‍🔬 Authors: Shimojukkoku Yudai, et al.
📚 Journal: Scientific Reports
📅 Year: 2025
🔗 Link: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-02094-9 (🔒 Currently disabled)
🧬 Highlights: Introduces MCTP2 as a promising biomarker for tumor progression and nodal metastasis in oral squamous cell carcinoma.