Prof. Dr. Xiao-Qing Liang | Paleobotany | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Xiao-Qing Liang | Paleobotany | Best Researcher Award

Prof. at Yuxi Normal University, China.

Prof. Dr. Xiao-Qing Liang is a distinguished paleobotanist and biogeographer at Yuxi Normal University, China, specializing in Cenozoic fossil flora and paleoenvironmental reconstruction in Yunnan—one of the world’s key biodiversity hotspots. His research integrates paleobotany, paleoecology, and climate modeling to investigate how geological and climatic shifts, such as the uplift of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, have influenced plant evolution and biogeographic patterns. He has led multiple nationally funded projects and published extensively in high-impact journals like Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology and BMC Evolutionary Biology. Notably, his discoveries of transitional fossils such as Primotrapa and ancestral Ulmus have filled major gaps in plant evolutionary history. Prof. Liang’s work bridges scientific research with conservation practice, contributing foundational knowledge to conservation paleobiology. He is also an active member of several academic societies and collaborates widely across disciplines. His contributions make him a leading figure in evolutionary botany and environmental change studies.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Prof. Dr. Xiao-Qing Liang received his academic training in botany and paleobotany through rigorous graduate and postgraduate education in China, culminating in a Ph.D. in Paleobotany. His doctoral research focused on fossil plant taxonomy, paleoecology, and the evolutionary history of Cenozoic floras, laying the foundation for his later work on climate-vegetation interactions and paleogeographic reconstruction. Following his Ph.D., he completed a competitive postdoctoral fellowship at the renowned Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he deepened his expertise in plant fossil analysis and multidisciplinary approaches to historical biogeography. This advanced academic background has equipped Prof. Liang with a unique ability to connect fossil evidence with modern ecological and climatological data. His educational path reflects a deep commitment to scientific excellence and has shaped him into a leading researcher in the fields of paleobotany, paleoecology, and conservation biology. His training also enabled him to lead national research projects and mentor future scientists.

Professional Experience 💼

Prof. Dr. Xiao-Qing Liang has extensive professional experience in paleobotany, paleoecology, and plant biogeography, with a primary academic appointment at Yuxi Normal University, China. Over the past decade, he has led and contributed to numerous nationally funded research projects, including several as Principal Investigator under the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC). His professional work focuses on reconstructing Cenozoic vegetation and paleoclimate in Southwest China, particularly in Yunnan Province, a global biodiversity hotspot. He completed a prestigious postdoctoral fellowship at the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, where he refined his expertise in fossil plant analysis and climate-vegetation interactions. Prof. Liang has published widely in top-tier journals and is an active member of several national scientific committees, including the Botanical Society of China and the Paleontological Society of China. His professional career is marked by interdisciplinary collaboration, scientific leadership, and contributions to both academic research and environmental conservation policy.

Research Interest 🔬

Prof. Dr. Xiao-Qing Liang’s research interests lie at the intersection of paleobotany, paleoecology, paleogeography, and paleoclimatology, with a special focus on the Cenozoic era in East Asia. His work aims to uncover how ancient plant life responded to major geological and climatic events, such as the uplift of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and the transitions between the Oligocene and Miocene epochs. He is particularly interested in reconstructing past environments using fossil records and integrating these with modern ecological and climatic data to understand long-term patterns of biodiversity and evolution. His research has led to the discovery of key transitional fossils, enabling new insights into plant lineage development and historical biogeography. By bridging paleontological data with current environmental concerns, Prof. Liang’s studies contribute to the emerging field of conservation paleobiology, offering predictive frameworks for how modern ecosystems may respond to climate change. His interdisciplinary approach connects botany, climatology, and evolutionary science.

Research Skill🔎

Prof. Dr. Xiao-Qing Liang possesses a robust set of research skills that span paleobotany, stratigraphy, paleoecology, and quantitative paleoclimate reconstruction. He is highly proficient in fossil identification and classification, with a specialization in Cenozoic plant taxa, and adept at interpreting the morphological and anatomical features of plant fossils to infer their evolutionary relationships. He skillfully integrates paleontological data with modern ecological databases and uses paleoclimatic modeling tools to reconstruct ancient environments and biogeographic patterns. His ability to synthesize multi-source data—from field excavations to laboratory analysis—demonstrates his methodological versatility. Prof. Liang also excels in academic writing and publishing, with numerous high-impact articles in peer-reviewed journals. Furthermore, he has demonstrated strong project management and leadership abilities as Principal Investigator on several nationally funded research projects. His collaborative approach allows him to work effectively across disciplines such as climatology, geology, and environmental science, making his research both rigorous and broadly impactful.

Award and Honor🏆

Prof. Dr. Xiao-Qing Liang has earned recognition and honors for his outstanding contributions to paleobotanical research and plant evolutionary studies in China. He has been the recipient of multiple prestigious research grants, including several from the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC), reflecting national acknowledgment of his scientific leadership and innovation. His selection for the Yuxi Normal University Talent Introduction Program further highlights institutional recognition of his academic excellence and potential. As a senior member of the Botanical Society of China and council member of its Paleobotanical Committee, Prof. Liang plays an influential role in shaping national paleobotanical research agendas. He also holds committee memberships in the Paleontological Society of China and the Yunnan Provincial Paleobotany Specialized Committee, underscoring his professional standing in the scientific community. These roles and awards are a testament to his leadership, scholarly impact, and continued contributions to the advancement of paleobotany and environmental science.

Conclusion📝

Prof. Xiao-Qing Liang exhibits exemplary qualifications for the Best Researcher Award in Paleobotany & Evolutionary Biology. His work demonstrates a deep and innovative understanding of plant evolution and climate interaction over geological timescales. The integration of academic research with conservation policy and education further amplifies the real-world relevance of his contributions.

Recommendation: Strongly support nomination for the Best Researcher Award in Paleobotany & Evolutionary Biology.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Zhang, J., D’Rozario, A., Wang, L., Liang, X., & Zhou, Z. (2023). Geographical and morphological changes of conifers in Yunnan, China during the Cenozoic in response to climatic changes. Review of Palaeobotany and Palynology, 318, 104986.

Li Guan | Botanical Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Li Guan | Botanical Pharmacognosy | Best Researcher Award

Lecture/Master’s supervisor at Jinzhou Medical University, China

Dr. Li Guan is a dedicated researcher and lecturer at Jinzhou Medical University with a strong academic background in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. She earned her Ph.D. from Northeast Forestry University and is currently completing a postdoctoral fellowship at Hunan University. Her research focuses on the pharmacological effects of plant exosomes and protein signal transduction in plant nuclear membrane proteins—fields with growing biomedical relevance. Dr. Guan has published three SCI Q1-indexed journal articles and holds two patents, demonstrating both research quality and innovation. She actively mentors graduate students, one of whom has published under her guidance, and maintains collaborations with institutions such as the Liaoning Collaborative Innovation Center. In addition to her editorial role, she is a member of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Society. With a commitment to cutting-edge research and academic growth, Dr. Li Guan represents a promising early-career scientist with the potential for significant future contributions.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Dr. Li Guan has a solid and progressive academic background that reflects her dedication to the field of life sciences. She began her higher education at Northeast Forestry University, earning a dual bachelor’s degree in Forestry and English in 2014. She continued at the same institution to pursue a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, which she completed in December 2020. Her doctoral research focused on plant vesicle transport, laying the foundation for her future work in molecular plant science. In January 2021, she commenced a postdoctoral fellowship at Hunan University, where she expanded her research into protein signal transduction in plant nuclear membrane proteins. Since December 2022, Dr. Guan has served as a lecturer and master’s supervisor at Jinzhou Medical University, where she guides graduate students and continues her investigations into plant exosomes. Her academic journey demonstrates a consistent focus on innovative and relevant research in the biological sciences.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Li Guan has cultivated a focused and steadily advancing professional career in academic research and teaching. Her professional journey began with her postdoctoral fellowship at Hunan University in January 2021, where she conducted research on protein signal transduction in plant nuclear membrane proteins. This role allowed her to deepen her expertise in molecular biology while contributing to high-impact scientific publications. In December 2022, she was appointed as a lecturer and master’s supervisor at Jinzhou Medical University. In this role, she has taken on both teaching responsibilities and active research, particularly in the area of plant exosomes and their pharmacological effects. Dr. Guan has successfully mentored graduate students, one of whom has published an SCI Q1-indexed article under her supervision. Her involvement in collaborative research with institutions such as the Liaoning Collaborative Innovation Center further reflects her growing influence in the scientific community and commitment to advancing plant-based biomedical research.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Li Guan’s research interests lie at the intersection of plant molecular biology and biomedical science, with a particular focus on the pharmacological effects of plant-derived exosomes and protein signal transduction mechanisms. She is deeply engaged in exploring how plant exosomes—nano-sized vesicles involved in intercellular communication—can influence biological processes and potentially serve as natural drug delivery systems. During her doctoral studies, she concentrated on plant vesicle transport, which laid the groundwork for her continued interest in cellular signaling pathways. Her postdoctoral research expanded into protein signaling within plant nuclear membrane proteins, further enhancing her understanding of intracellular communication. Dr. Guan is especially interested in the potential biomedical applications of plant exosomes, including their role in inflammation, immune modulation, and targeted therapies. Her research aims to bridge the gap between plant science and human health, offering innovative insights into how natural systems can inspire therapeutic advancements in modern medicine.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Li Guan possesses a diverse set of research skills rooted in molecular biology, biochemistry, and plant science. She is proficient in advanced laboratory techniques such as protein extraction and analysis, gene expression profiling, vesicle isolation, and fluorescence microscopy. Her expertise extends to working with plant-derived exosomes, including their extraction, purification, and functional analysis, which are essential for investigating their pharmacological properties. Dr. Guan also has experience in molecular cloning, Western blotting, and signal transduction assays, particularly in the context of plant nuclear membrane proteins. She demonstrates strong analytical skills in interpreting experimental data and has contributed to peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals. Additionally, her ability to manage independent research projects, guide graduate students, and collaborate across disciplines highlights her project management and leadership capabilities. Dr. Guan’s combined technical proficiency, scientific curiosity, and commitment to innovation enable her to contribute meaningfully to cutting-edge research in plant-based biomedical applications.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Li Guan is an emerging researcher who has begun to gain recognition for her contributions to plant molecular biology and pharmacological research. While she is still in the early stages of her academic career, her work has been acknowledged through the publication of multiple high-impact SCI Q1-indexed articles, which is a notable achievement in the scientific community. She has also successfully filed two patents related to her research, reflecting her focus on innovation and applied science. In addition, her appointment as a lecturer and master’s supervisor at Jinzhou Medical University, along with her editorial role in a scientific journal, highlights the professional trust and respect she has earned. Dr. Guan is an active member of the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Society, which provides her with opportunities for academic networking and engagement. As her career progresses, she is well-positioned to receive further honors and awards for her valuable scientific contributions.

Conclusion📝

Li Guan is a promising early-career researcher with strong academic credentials, niche research specialization, and quality publications in high-impact journals. Her contribution to the understanding of plant exosomes and protein signaling is commendable and relevant to modern biosciences.

However, for a Best Researcher Award, which typically recognizes sustained excellence and broad impact, the current portfolio may be better suited for categories like:

  • Young Scientist Award

  • Best Research Scholar Award

  • Women Research Award

If citation impact and project volume improve in the coming years, Li Guan would be a stronger contender for the Best Researcher Award. For now, she shows strong potential and a commendable start to her academic career.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Title: FERONIA interacts with NPL4 to regulate immunity gene mRNA nucleocytoplasmic transport in response to plant immunity

  • Journal: Plant Science

  • Publication Type: Journal Article

  • Year: 2025 (August)

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2025.112545

  • Authors: Li Guan, Peilong Wang, Yongliang Li, Sufang Zhang

  • Citation Count: [Citation data not yet available] (As it is an upcoming 2025 publication, citation count may not yet be recorded in databases)

 

Gianluigi Bacchetta | Systematic Botany | Botany Scientist Excellence Award

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta | Systematic Botany | Botany Scientist Excellence Award

Direttore Centro Conservazione Biodiversità at Università degli Studi di Cagliari, Italy

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta is a renowned botanist and Full Professor at the University of Cagliari, Italy, with a distinguished career in plant biology, conservation, and geobotany. He holds multiple advanced degrees, including a European PhD in Plant Biology, and has served in various academic roles, including Director of the Hortus Botanicus Karalitanus and the Conservation Centre of Biodiversity. His research focuses on Mediterranean plant diversity, phytoclimatology, and phytogeography, contributing nearly 700 scientific publications. Prof. Bacchetta is actively involved in international conservation efforts, leading several EU-funded projects and serving on the editorial boards of prestigious journals. He also holds key positions in networks such as GENMEDA and scientific councils across Europe. His impactful work in seed banking, biodiversity preservation, and academic leadership makes him a leading figure in botanical science. His contributions have significantly advanced plant conservation and research, making him a strong candidate for recognition in the field.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta holds a comprehensive and multidisciplinary academic background in the life sciences. He earned his degree in Life Sciences from the University of Cagliari in 1996, followed by a Master’s in Landscape Planning at the same university in 1997. He further specialized with a Master’s in “Vegetation Analysis: survey and data elaboration on flora, vegetation and soil” at the Marche Polytechnic University in 2000. That same year, he completed a PhD in Geomorphology and Geobotany at the Marche Polytechnic University, solidifying his expertise in plant ecology and landscape dynamics. In 2002, he obtained the “Suficiencia Investigadora” and earned a European PhD in Plant Biology at the University of Valencia, Spain. His diverse and rigorous academic training across prominent European institutions laid a strong foundation for his distinguished research career in botany, particularly in Mediterranean flora, conservation biology, and phytogeography.

Professional Experience 💼

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta has over two decades of professional experience in botanical science, specializing in plant biology, geobotany, and conservation. He began his academic career as a lecturer at the Marche Polytechnic University (2000–2002), followed by his role as Assistant Professor at the University of Cagliari (2002–2006). He was later promoted to Associate Professor (2006–2015) and currently serves as Full Professor at the Faculty of Biology and Pharmacy. He also holds an adjunct professorship at the University of Tehran. Prof. Bacchetta has directed key institutions such as the Hortus Botanicus Karalitanus and currently leads the Conservation Centre of Biodiversity and the Germplasm Bank of Sardinia. He is Deputy Director of the PhD program in Earth and Environmental Sciences and actively contributes to international conservation projects. His leadership, academic mentorship, and research coordination highlight his profound commitment to advancing plant science and biodiversity conservation on both national and international levels.

Research Interest 🔬

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta’s research interests center on plant biodiversity, geobotany, and conservation biology, with a strong focus on the Mediterranean region. Since 1991, he has conducted extensive studies on the flora of islands and coastal ecosystems, examining patterns of plant diversity, endemism, and habitat specificity. His work integrates phytoclimatology, phytogeography, and ecological restoration, aiming to understand and preserve vulnerable plant communities. He has a particular interest in ex situ and in situ conservation strategies, seed banking, and the sustainable management of plant genetic resources. As Director of the Conservation Centre of Biodiversity and the Germplasm Bank of Sardinia, he plays a key role in preserving rare and endemic species. Prof. Bacchetta is also involved in international research networks and projects focused on ecosystem resilience, habitat mapping, and biogeographic analysis. His interdisciplinary approach combines fieldwork, data analysis, and policy-oriented research to advance global plant conservation efforts.

Award and Honor🏆

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to botany, plant conservation, and biodiversity research. While specific awards are not detailed in the provided information, his appointment to prestigious academic and scientific positions reflects his high standing in the scientific community. He has been entrusted with leadership roles such as Director of the Conservation Centre of Biodiversity and the Germplasm Bank of Sardinia, as well as President of the GENMEDA network, underscoring his influence in Mediterranean plant conservation. Additionally, his involvement in high-level scientific councils, editorial boards of leading journals, and international conservation initiatives attests to the respect he commands globally. His selection as a principal investigator for numerous European Union-funded projects (LIFE+, Interreg, Erasmus+) further highlights his scientific excellence and leadership. These honors collectively demonstrate his significant impact on advancing plant science and conserving botanical heritage at both regional and international levels.

Research Skill🔎

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta possesses a broad and advanced set of research skills in the fields of botany, plant ecology, and biodiversity conservation. His expertise spans geobotanical survey methods, vegetation analysis, phytosociological classification, and phytogeographical mapping. He is highly skilled in the identification and classification of Mediterranean flora, with a strong focus on endemic and threatened plant species. Prof. Bacchetta is proficient in ex situ and in situ conservation techniques, including seed collection, germplasm preservation, and habitat restoration. He demonstrates strong analytical skills in ecological data processing and GIS-based spatial analysis, essential for landscape-level conservation planning. Additionally, he is experienced in managing large-scale, interdisciplinary research projects, especially those funded by the European Union. His ability to integrate fieldwork with policy-relevant science and academic dissemination is evident in his prolific publication record. These research competencies position him as a leader in applied plant science and ecosystem conservation across Mediterranean and island environments.

Conclusion📝

Prof. Gianluigi Bacchetta is an exceptionally qualified and globally respected botanist, whose long-standing contributions to plant taxonomy, biodiversity conservation, and geobotany make him a highly suitable and deserving candidate for the Botany Scientist Excellence Award.

His profound academic achievements, prolific publication record, institutional leadership, and continuous involvement in conservation and international collaboration align perfectly with the award’s vision to honor excellence in botanical research.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • An annotated checklist of the Italian vascular flora
    Authors: F Conti, G Abbate, A Alessandrini, C Blasi
    Year: 1999
    Citations: 2005

  • An updated checklist of the vascular flora native to Italy
    Authors: F Bartolucci, L Peruzzi, G Galasso, A Albano, A Alessandrini, …
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 927

  • An updated checklist of the vascular flora alien to Italy
    Authors: G Galasso, F Conti, L Peruzzi, NMG Ardenghi, E Banfi, L Celesti-Grapow, …
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 625

  • Integrazioni alla checklist della flora vascolare italiana
    Authors: F Conti, A Alessandrini, G Bacchetta, E Banfi, G Barberis, F Bartolucci, …
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 397

  • Using MaxEnt modeling to predict the potential distribution of the endemic plant Rosa arabica Crép. in Egypt
    Authors: M Abdelaal, M Fois, G Fenu, G Bacchetta
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 297

  • Using species distribution models at local scale to guide the search of poorly known species: Review, methodological issues and future directions
    Authors: M Fois, A Cuena-Lombraña, G Fenu, G Bacchetta
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 277

  • Hotspots within hotspots: Endemic plant richness, environmental drivers, and implications for conservation
    Authors: EM Cañadas, G Fenu, J Peñas, J Lorite, E Mattana, G Bacchetta
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 243

  • Effects of ecological factors on the antioxidant potential and total phenol content of Scrophularia striata Boiss
    Authors: Z Zargoosh, M Ghavam, G Bacchetta, A Tavili
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 226

  • Red Listing plants under full national responsibility: Extinction risk and threats in the vascular flora endemic to Italy
    Authors: S Orsenigo, C Montagnani, G Fenu, D Gargano, L Peruzzi, T Abeli, …
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 212

  • Phylogenetic analysis informed by geological history supports multiple, sequential invasions of the Mediterranean Basin by the angiosperm family Araceae
    Authors: G Mansion, G Rosenbaum, N Schoenenberger, G Bacchetta, JA Rosselló, …
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 171

  • Environmental factors influencing coastal vegetation pattern: new insights from the Mediterranean Basin
    Authors: G Fenu, M Carboni, ATR Acosta, G Bacchetta
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 159

  • Vegetazione forestale e serie di vegetazione della Sardegna (con rappresentazione cartografica alla scala 1: 350.000)
    Authors: G Bacchetta, S Bagella, E Biondi, E Farris, RS Filigheddu, L Mossa
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 155

  • Conservación ex situ de plantas silvestres
    Authors: G Bacchetta, B Daniel, B Piero
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 144

Sang Yeol Lee | Plant Physiology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee | Plant Physiology | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Gyeongsang National University, South Korea

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee is a renowned scientist in molecular biology, plant sciences, and biochemistry, with over 290 SCI-indexed international publications. He has made groundbreaking contributions to plant stress responses, enzymology, and cellular mechanisms. He earned his B.S. and M.S. from Seoul National University and a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from KAIST, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at the NIH, USA. Since 1985, he has been a professor at Gyeongsang National University, currently serving as a Distinguished Professor. His career includes research positions at Kyoto University and NIH, along with leadership roles such as President of the Korean Society for Molecular and Cellular Biology (KSMCB) and Director of the National Core Research Center (NCRC). Recognized with multiple prestigious awards, including Best Scientist honors from KAIST, KSMCB, and NAS, Prof. Lee continues to shape global scientific advancements through his research and academic leadership.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee has an extensive academic background in biochemical and life sciences. He earned his B.S. in Food Science & Engineering from Seoul National University in 1980, where he developed a strong foundation in scientific research. He then pursued an M.S. in Enzymology from the same institution, completing it in 1982, focusing on biochemical processes and enzymatic functions. To further advance his expertise, he obtained a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from KAIST in 1985, specializing in molecular and cellular biology. Seeking international exposure, he completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), USA, from 1987 to 1989, where he worked on advanced biochemical research. His educational journey across prestigious institutions equipped him with the knowledge and skills that have contributed to his outstanding research career, leading to significant advancements in molecular biology, enzymology, and plant sciences.

Professional Experience 💼

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee has had a distinguished career spanning several decades in academia and research. Since 1985, he has been a professor at Gyeongsang National University (GNU), where he currently serves as a Distinguished Professor. His international research experience includes positions as a Research Professor at Kyoto University, Japan (1990-1991), and at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), USA (1991-1992). He has held significant leadership roles, including serving as the Director of the National Core Research Center (NCRC) and as President of the Korean Society for Molecular and Cellular Biology (KSMCB) in 2015. Additionally, he has been an advisor and appraiser for major research organizations such as KOSEF and the Next Generation BioGreen 21 Project. His extensive contributions in research, academic leadership, and policy development have played a crucial role in advancing molecular biology, plant sciences, and biochemical research in Korea and internationally.

Research Interest 🔬

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee’s research interests lie in molecular biology, plant sciences, enzymology, and biochemical stress responses. His work focuses on understanding plant stress tolerance mechanisms, particularly in relation to oxidative stress, redox signaling, and protein function in plants. He has made significant contributions to identifying key molecular pathways that regulate plant immunity, stress adaptation, and circadian rhythms. His studies on thioredoxin proteins, peroxiredoxins, and protein chaperones have provided critical insights into how plants respond to environmental challenges such as heat, salt, and oxidative stress. Additionally, his research extends to signal transduction, kinase regulation, and epigenetic modifications in plant development and defense. With over 290 SCI-indexed publications, his work has significantly influenced plant molecular biology and agricultural biotechnology, contributing to the development of stress-resistant crops. His research continues to shape advancements in plant stress physiology and biochemical adaptation strategies in response to climate change.

Award and Honor🏆

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee has received numerous prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to molecular biology, plant sciences, and biochemistry. His achievements include the Distinguished Research Award from Gyeongsang National University (2004) and multiple Best Scientist Awards from organizations such as the Korean Society for Molecular and Cellular Biology (KSMCB), the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), and the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology (MOEST). He was also recognized as one of Korea’s Best Scientists by the Association of Korean Journalists (2004) and received The Best 100-Scientific Achievements of Korea Award (2022). His scientific leadership earned him the Distinguished Alumni Award from KAIST (2013). With a career marked by national and international accolades, Prof. Lee’s research has significantly influenced plant molecular biology, enzymology, and biotechnology, reinforcing his status as one of Korea’s most distinguished scientists in life sciences.

Research Skill🔎

Prof. Dr. Sang Yeol Lee possesses exceptional research skills in molecular biology, biochemistry, plant sciences, and enzymology. His expertise includes protein biochemistry, redox signaling, gene expression analysis, and stress physiology in plants. He has extensive experience in molecular cloning, protein purification, structural biology, and functional genomics, which he has applied to understanding plant stress responses and cellular adaptation mechanisms. His work on thioredoxin proteins, peroxiredoxins, and kinase signaling pathways has provided groundbreaking insights into oxidative stress regulation, plant immunity, and environmental stress tolerance. Additionally, he is skilled in epigenetic analysis, transcriptomics, and advanced biochemical assays, which have contributed to his over 290 SCI-indexed publications. His ability to integrate cutting-edge biochemical techniques with plant molecular biology has enabled him to make significant contributions to agricultural biotechnology, particularly in developing stress-resistant crops and understanding plant adaptation to climate change. His diverse research skill set continues to advance scientific knowledge in plant sciences.

Conclusion📝

Prof. Sang Yeol Lee is a highly accomplished researcher with exceptional contributions to molecular biology and plant sciences. His impressive publication record, leadership in scientific societies, and multiple prestigious awards strongly support his candidacy for the Best Researcher Award. While he already holds a distinguished position, enhancing international collaborations and industrial applications could further solidify his legacy. Based on his credentials, he is an excellent choice for the award.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • NTRC mediates the coupling of chloroplast redox rhythm with nuclear circadian clock in plant cellsSang-yeol Lee et al., Molecular Plant, 2025

  • FAD and NADPH binding sites of YUCCA6 are essential for chaperone activity and oxidative stress tolerance in Arabidopsis thalianaSang-yeol Lee et al., Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, 2025

  • S-nitrosylation switches the Arabidopsis redox sensor protein, QSOX1, from an oxidoreductase to a molecular chaperone under heat stressSang-yeol Lee et al., Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, 2024 (3 citations)

  • Functional changes of OsTrxm from reductase to molecular chaperone under heat shock stressSang-yeol Lee et al., Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, 2023