Mi Jeong Lim | Chemistry | Research Excellence Award

Ms. Mi Jeong Lim | Chemistry | Research Excellence Award

Researcher | Baekdudaegan National Arboretum | South Korea

Dr. Lim Mi-jeong is a researcher at the Catholic University of Daegu, Gyeongsan, South Korea, with expertise in food science, physicochemical characterization, and antioxidant activity of natural products. Her research emphasizes the evaluation of bioactive compounds derived from plant-based materials and their functional relevance to food preservation and health-related applications. She has contributed peer-reviewed scholarly articles that have attracted citations from the international research community, demonstrating the academic relevance of her work. One of her key studies, published in the Korean Journal of Food Preservation, investigates the physicochemical properties and antioxidant potential of spray-dried plant extracts. Dr. Lim actively collaborates with researchers in food chemistry and functional food science. Her work supports the development of value-added, health-oriented food ingredients, contributing to scientific progress and broader societal well-being.

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Featured Publications

Yunlong Gao | Physical chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yunlong Gao | Physical chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Nanjing agricultural university, China

Dr. Yunlong Gao is a distinguished chemist with a robust background in analytical and physical chemistry, specializing in carotenoid chemistry, electron transfer processes, and photo-induced charge separation. With a Ph.D. from the University of Alabama and postdoctoral experience at Yale University, he has contributed significantly to understanding carotenoid radical behavior, metal-ligand interactions, and water oxidation catalysis. His extensive expertise in spectroscopy, electrochemistry, and computational chemistry has led to numerous high-impact publications. Currently serving as an associate professor at Nanjing Agricultural University, Dr. Gao collaborates internationally, particularly on carotenoid stability and antioxidant activity. His strengths lie in interdisciplinary research, strong publication record, and advanced technical skills. To further enhance his profile, increased engagement in leadership roles, grant acquisition, and broader collaborative networks could be beneficial. Overall, Dr. Gao demonstrates the scholarly excellence, innovation, and sustained research impact that make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.
Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Yunlong Gao possesses a strong academic foundation in chemistry, marked by his international education and research training. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Alabama in 2013, where he focused on the mechanisms of electron transfer and the behavior of carotenoid radicals, laying the groundwork for his future research contributions. Prior to that, he completed his undergraduate and master’s degrees in Chemistry in China, where he developed a solid grasp of analytical and physical chemistry principles. Following his Ph.D., Dr. Gao undertook postdoctoral research at Yale University from 2013 to 2015, deepening his expertise in photochemistry, redox chemistry, and spectroscopy. His academic journey reflects a blend of rigorous theoretical training and practical laboratory experience across prestigious institutions. This diverse educational background has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of molecular processes, enabling him to conduct innovative, interdisciplinary research in carotenoid chemistry and related fields.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Yunlong Gao has accumulated extensive professional experience in the fields of chemistry and photochemistry, with a focus on carotenoid radical chemistry, redox processes, and photoprotective mechanisms in biological systems. After completing his Ph.D. at the University of Alabama, he served as a postdoctoral researcher at Yale University from 2013 to 2015, where he investigated the roles of carotenoid radicals in light-harvesting complexes and further developed his skills in spectroscopic analysis. Since then, Dr. Gao has held academic positions that allowed him to lead independent research projects, publish high-impact papers, and mentor graduate students. His work has significantly advanced understanding in areas such as electron transfer, radical stabilization, and the molecular dynamics of photoprotection. In addition to research, Dr. Gao has actively contributed to scientific communities through peer reviewing and conference participation. His professional journey reflects a consistent dedication to scientific excellence, innovation, and collaborative research in physical and bioinorganic chemistry.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Yunlong Gao’s research interests lie at the intersection of physical chemistry, photochemistry, and bioinorganic chemistry, with a particular focus on the mechanisms of photoprotection and redox regulation in biological systems. He is especially interested in the role of carotenoids and their radical species in photosynthetic light-harvesting complexes, exploring how these molecules protect organisms from oxidative stress and manage excess energy under high-light conditions. His research employs advanced spectroscopic techniques, such as ultrafast transient absorption and electron paramagnetic resonance, to investigate the electronic structure, dynamics, and reactivity of carotenoid radicals. Dr. Gao also explores electron transfer processes and their influence on redox homeostasis, aiming to uncover fundamental principles that can inform the development of artificial photosynthetic systems and redox-active materials. His interdisciplinary approach bridges molecular chemistry and biological function, contributing to innovations in energy conversion, photoprotection strategies, and the design of biomimetic materials.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Yunlong Gao has been the recipient of numerous prestigious awards and honors that recognize his outstanding contributions to the field of photochemistry and bioinorganic chemistry. His doctoral research at the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences earned him the President’s Scholarship for academic excellence. During his postdoctoral training, he received multiple fellowships, including the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS) Fellowship, which supported his advanced research on carotenoid radicals in photosynthetic complexes. His innovative studies have also been acknowledged by international conferences, where he has received Best Presentation and Young Scientist Awards. Dr. Gao’s work has been published in high-impact journals, earning citations and commendations from leading scientists in the field. These accolades highlight his commitment to scientific advancement and reflect his growing influence within the global chemistry community. His awards underscore both the originality and the scientific value of his research on photoprotection and redox processes.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Yunlong Gao possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that span across photochemistry, spectroscopy, and bioinorganic chemistry. He is highly proficient in advanced spectroscopic techniques, including UV-Vis, EPR, resonance Raman, and transient absorption spectroscopy, which he skillfully applies to investigate the mechanisms of photoprotection and redox processes in biological systems. Dr. Gao is adept at handling and characterizing photoactive proteins and cofactors, with deep expertise in protein expression, purification, and reconstitution. His strong analytical abilities enable him to interpret complex spectral data and elucidate intricate molecular interactions. He is also experienced in computational modeling, which he integrates with experimental findings to provide a holistic view of photochemical behaviors. Dr. Gao’s meticulous laboratory skills, coupled with his innovative approach to problem-solving, have allowed him to make significant advancements in understanding carotenoid and chlorophyll function in photosynthesis. His interdisciplinary capabilities make him a valuable contributor to collaborative scientific research.

Publications Top Noted✍️

  1. Title: The Endless World of Carotenoids—Structural, Chemical and Biological Aspects of Some Rare Carotenoids
    Authors: Nikolay E. Polyakov, A. Ligia Focsan, Yunlong Gao, Lowell D. Kispert
    Year: 2023
    Citation: Polyakov, N. E., Focsan, A. L., Gao, Y., & Kispert, L. D. (2023). The Endless World of Carotenoids—Structural, Chemical and Biological Aspects of Some Rare Carotenoids. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(12), 9885. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24129885

  2. Title: The effect of polarity of environment on the antioxidant activity of carotenoids
    Authors: Yunlong Gao, A. Ligia Focsan, Lowell D. Kispert
    Year: 2020
    Citation: Gao, Y., Focsan, A. L., & Kispert, L. D. (2020). The effect of polarity of environment on the antioxidant activity of carotenoids. Chemical Physics Letters, 758, 138098. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cplett.2020.138098

  1. Title: Antioxidant Activity in Supramolecular Carotenoid Complexes Favored by Nonpolar Environment and Disfavored by Hydrogen Bonding
    Authors: Yunlong Gao, A. Ligia Focsan, Lowell D. Kispert
    Year: 2020
    Citation: Gao, Y., Focsan, A. L., & Kispert, L. D. (2020). Antioxidant Activity in Supramolecular Carotenoid Complexes Favored by Nonpolar Environment and Disfavored by Hydrogen Bonding. Antioxidants, 9(7), 625. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox9070625

  2. Title: Photo-induced charge separation in hydroxycoumarins on TiO2 and F–TiO2
    Authors: Yunlong Gao, Molly Lockart, Lowell D. Kispert, Michael K. Bowman
    Year: 2019
    Citation: Gao, Y., Lockart, M., Kispert, L. D., & Bowman, M. K. (2019). Photo-induced charge separation in hydroxycoumarins on TiO2 and F–TiO2. Dalton Transactions, 48(35), 13399–13406. https://doi.org/10.1039/C9DT01455A

  3. Title: Photoinduced Charge Separation in Retinoic Acid on TiO2: Comparison of Three Anchoring Modes
    Authors: Yunlong Gao, Molly Lockart, Lowell D. Kispert, Michael K. Bowman
    Year: 2019
    Citation: Gao, Y., Lockart, M., Kispert, L. D., & Bowman, M. K. (2019). Photoinduced Charge Separation in Retinoic Acid on TiO2: Comparison of Three Anchoring Modes. The Journal of Physical Chemistry C, 123(40), 24713–24721. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.jpcc.9b07787

Janne Rojas | Chemistry | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Janne Rojas | Chemistry | Women Researcher Award

Profesora investigadora at Universidad de Los Andes, Venezuela

Dr. Janne del Carmen Rojas Vera is a distinguished Venezuelan researcher and professor at the Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad de Los Andes (ULA), specializing in natural products and medicinal chemistry. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of Portsmouth, England, and a Master’s in Medicinal Chemistry from ULA. With over three decades of academic and research experience, she has contributed significantly to the study of bioactive compounds, antimicrobial activity, and phytochemical properties of medicinal plants. As a full professor and research mentor, she has guided numerous undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral theses. Her work has led to multiple scientific publications in international journals, showcasing her expertise in pharmacognosy and pharmaceutical sciences. Dr. Rojas’s dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and training future researchers makes her a strong candidate for the Women Researcher Award, recognizing her impactful contributions to medicinal chemistry and her commitment to innovation in pharmaceutical research.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Janne del Carmen Rojas Vera has an extensive academic background in pharmaceutical sciences and medicinal chemistry. She earned her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in 2002 from the University of Portsmouth, England, where she conducted research on the chemical and pharmacological properties of raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus). Prior to that, she completed a Master of Science in Medicinal Chemistry at the Universidad de Los Andes (ULA), Mérida, Venezuela, in 1995. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from ULA in 1990, where she graduated with distinction, securing third place in her graduating class. Her specialized training and advanced studies have equipped her with expertise in organic chemistry, natural products, and pharmacognosy. With a strong foundation in both theoretical and applied pharmaceutical sciences, Dr. Rojas has continued to contribute to research, innovation, and education in the field, mentoring students and leading scientific investigations in medicinal chemistry.

Professional Experience

Dr. Janne del Carmen Rojas Vera has over three decades of professional experience in pharmaceutical research and academia. She has been a dedicated faculty member at the Universidad de Los Andes (ULA), Venezuela, since 1992, progressively advancing through academic ranks to become a Full Professor in 2011. Specializing in medicinal chemistry and natural products, she has taught courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including Organic Chemistry, Natural Products, and Medicinal Chemistry. Her research focuses on the chemical and pharmacological properties of bioactive compounds, leading to numerous scientific publications. In addition to her teaching and research, Dr. Rojas has mentored many undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral students, fostering new generations of scientists. She also served as a pharmacist early in her career, gaining practical expertise in drug analysis. Her extensive experience in education, research, and mentorship highlights her invaluable contributions to pharmaceutical sciences and academia.

Research Interests

Dr. Janne del Carmen Rojas Vera’s research interests lie in the fields of medicinal chemistry, natural products, and pharmaceutical sciences. Her work focuses on the isolation, characterization, and pharmacological evaluation of bioactive compounds derived from medicinal plants, particularly those with antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties. She is dedicated to studying the chemical composition of essential oils and plant extracts to explore their potential therapeutic applications. Dr. Rojas has contributed significantly to understanding the biological activities of various plant species, aiming to discover novel compounds with pharmaceutical relevance. Her research extends to evaluating the toxicity, analgesic effects, and antimicrobial properties of natural products, providing valuable insights into drug discovery. She also investigates phytochemical screening.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Janne del Carmen Rojas Vera has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of her outstanding contributions to pharmaceutical sciences, medicinal chemistry, and natural product research. As a distinguished academic, she earned third place in student performance ranking during her undergraduate studies in pharmacy at the Universidad de Los Andes. Throughout her career, she has been acknowledged for her dedication to scientific research, particularly in the study of bioactive compounds and their pharmaceutical applications. Her research has been published in prestigious scientific journals, further cementing her reputation in the field. Dr. Rojas has also been honored for her mentorship and commitment to training future researchers in pharmaceutical sciences. Her involvement in various research projects, coupled with her leadership in academia, has made her a respected figure in the scientific community. These accolades highlight her significant impact on advancing medicinal chemistry and natural product research.

Research Skills

Dr. Janne del Carmen Rojas Vera possesses a diverse and advanced skill set in pharmaceutical and natural product research. Her expertise includes phytochemical analysis, isolation, and structural elucidation of bioactive compounds, particularly from medicinal plants. She is highly skilled in chromatographic techniques such as HPLC, GC-MS, and TLC, which are essential for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of natural products. Additionally, Dr. Rojas specializes in pharmacological and antimicrobial activity assessments, evaluating the therapeutic potential of plant-derived compounds against various pathogens. Her research skills extend to spectroscopic methods, including NMR and UV-Vis spectroscopy, for the identification of chemical constituents. As a seasoned academic, she excels in designing and supervising research projects, guiding students in experimental methodologies, and publishing scientific findings in high-impact journals. Her ability to integrate chemistry, pharmacology, and biotechnology in her research makes her a highly proficient and respected scientist in the field of medicinal chemistry.

Conclusion

Dr. Janne del Carmen Rojas Vera is a highly qualified candidate for the Women Researcher Award due to her extensive academic career, impactful research in medicinal chemistry, and dedication to mentoring future scientists. Her work in natural product research, antimicrobial studies, and pharmaceutical sciences has significantly contributed to her field. With further international collaborations and high-impact publications, she could further enhance her global research footprint.

Publication Top Notes

  • Rojas, J.D.C., Buitrago Díaz, A.A., Rojas-Fermín, L.B., Ramírez, H., & Fernandez-Moreira, E. (2024). Chemical composition and cytotoxic activity of the essential oil of Hinterubera imbricata species collected in Venezuelan Andes. Journal of Essential Oil-Bearing Plants.

  • Rojas, J.D.C., & Buitrago Díaz, A.A. (Year not available). Antimicrobial Activity of Essential Oils from Species Collected in Venezuelan Andean. [No source information available].

  • Bouzier, A., Rojas, J.D.C., Koumba, S., Martin, P., & Morillo Salcedo, M. (2023). The Impact of Saponins on Health-Review. Biointerface Research in Applied Chemistry.

  • Rojas, J.D.C., Ndong-Ntoutoume, G.M.A., Martin, P., & Morillo Salcedo, M. (2021). Antibacterial activity and reversal of multidrug resistance of tumor cells by essential oils from fresh leaves, flowers, and stems of Montanoa quadrangularis Schultz Bipontinus (Asteraceae) collected in Mérida—Venezuela. Biomolecules.

Dritan Topi | Chemistry | Best Scholar Award

Prof. Dr. Dritan Topi | Chemistry | Best Scholar Award

Lecturer at University of Tirana, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Albania

Dr. Dritan Topi is an Albanian professor specializing in food chemistry, chemical analysis, and food safety. He holds a Ph.D. in Chemical Analysis from the University of Tirana, where he has been a faculty member since 2008. He has extensive experience in food science and technology, including a Master’s in Food Sciences, Technology, and Nutrition from Dublin Institute of Technology. Dr. Topi is an expert in food metabolomics, food authentication, and the study of secondary metabolites, mycotoxins, and their impact on food safety. His research has contributed significantly to the chemical characterization of Albanian wines and olive oils, with numerous published works in reputed scientific journals. He has also been involved in international research collaborations and has received several ERASMUS scholarships.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Dritan Topi pursued his academic studies at the University of Tirana, earning a Bachelor’s in Food Chemistry (1994-1999) and a Master’s in Chemical Analysis (2001-2004). He then completed his Ph.D. in Chemical Analysis at the same university (2005-2008). He further specialized in food sciences through a Master’s program at the Dublin Institute of Technology (2008-2009). His education also includes specialized training in wine authentication at the University of Milan (2013) and a postdoctoral fellowship in food pathology and nutrition at the University of Ljubljana (2014-2015).

Professional Experience

Dr. Topi has held significant academic positions, primarily at the University of Tirana’s Faculty of Natural Sciences since 2008, where he serves as a Professor in the Department of Chemistry. His professional experience extends to various international universities through ERASMUS+ staff mobility exchanges, such as the University of Cukurova in Turkey, University of Ljubljana in Slovenia, and University of Algarve in Portugal. His research contributions focus on food authentication, mycotoxins, and food safety, and he has led multiple projects in these fields.

Research Interest

Dr. Dritan Topi’s research interests primarily focus on food chemistry, food safety, and chemical analysis. His work revolves around the identification and characterization of food metabolites, including the study of secondary metabolites, mycotoxins, and their impact on food quality and safety. He is particularly interested in food authentication, working on methods to identify and differentiate food products, including Albanian wines and olive oils, using chemical markers. Additionally, Dr. Topi’s research explores the effects of food pathogens and contaminants, such as mold and bacteria, on food safety. His work extends into food toxicology, specifically examining how mycotoxins affect human health. He has also conducted research on food nutrition, particularly in relation to sustainable food production and food product development. His research has had a considerable impact on improving food quality control, health standards, and public safety.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Dritan Topi has received numerous accolades for his outstanding contributions to food science and research. His scholarly work has been recognized internationally, particularly in the areas of food safety and quality. He was awarded an ERASMUS scholarship for academic exchange, allowing him to collaborate with leading institutions like the University of Ljubljana and the University of Algarve. His research contributions have earned him recognition within the scientific community, particularly in the areas of food metabolomics and food authentication. Dr. Topi’s work on Albanian wines and olive oils has received considerable attention for its impact on promoting local food products globally. He has also been honored with invitations to speak at international conferences, further solidifying his reputation in the field. Additionally, he has received multiple research grants and project-based awards, supporting his ongoing contributions to food science.

Publications Top Noted

  • The Presence of Some Minor Aspergillus and Penicillium Unregulated Mycotoxins in Main Cereals Cultivated in Albania
    • Authors: Topi, D., Damani, Z., Babič, J., Jakovac-Strajn, B., Tavčar-Kalcher, G.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: 0
  • Targeted analysis for the detection of phenolics and authentication of Albanian wines using LC-DAD/ESI–MS/MS combined with chemometric tools
    • Authors: Topi, D., Topi, A., Guclu, G., Uzlasir, T., Kelebek, H.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: 0
  • Nutritional value and quality aspects of wheat produced and consumed in Albania
    • Authors: Mato, L., Damani, Z., Osmanaj, A., Topi, D.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: 2
  • A survey of natural mycological and AFB1 contamination in wheat and maize during the 2022 harvesting season in Albania
    • Authors: Topi, D., Risto, J., Spahiu, J., Mato, L.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: 0
  • High Prevalence of Mycotoxigenic Fungi and Aflatoxin B1 Contamination in Corn and Wheat Grains Grown in Albania: Implications for Food Safety
    • Authors: Mato, L., Damani, Z., Spahiu, J., Seiti, B., Topi, D.
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: 2
  • Incidence of Aflatoxins and Ochratoxin A in Wheat and Corn from Albania
    • Authors: Topi, D., Babič, J., Jakovac-Strajn, B., Tavčar-Kalcher, G.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citation: 9
  • Statistical analysis on phenolic compounds dataset obtained by HPLC-MS/MS in fruit juices as a discrimination tool
    • Authors: Llupa, J., Kalluci, E., Topi, D., Akrida-Demertzis, K., Demertzis, P.
    • Year: 2023
    • Citation: 0
  • LC-MS/MS CHARACTERIZATION OF PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS IN THE QUINCE (CYDONIA OBLONGA MILL.) AND SWEET CHERRY (PRUNUS AVIUM L.) FRUIT JUICES
    • Authors: Llupa, J., Gašić, U., Brčeski, I., Tešević, V., Topi, D.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citation: 7
  • Two-year survey of aflatoxin M1 in milk marketed in Albania, and human exposure assessment
    • Authors: Topi, D., Spahiu, J., Rexhepi, A., Marku, N.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citation: 17
  • Investigation of aflatoxin M1 in baby milk and aflatoxin B1 in infant cereals marketed in Kosovo
    • Authors: Muharremi, H., Raka, L., Spahiu, J., Tershnjaku, I., Topi, D.
    • Year: 2022
    • Citation: 3