Angelica Rachel Carpio | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Angelica Rachel Carpio | Pharmacology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Angelica Rachel Carpio at DLSU Laguna, Philippines

Angelica Rachel E. Carpio is a highly driven bioengineer and nanotechnology researcher from Mapúa University, where she is completing both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Biological Engineering. With published research in respected journals such as Life and the Journal of the Taiwan Institute of Chemical Engineers, her work explores innovative applications of natural compounds and nanomaterials for therapeutic use. She has hands-on experience in advanced laboratory techniques, computational modeling, and scientific writing, strengthened by international research training in Taiwan and immersion in Japan. Currently, she contributes to nanotechnology development at De La Salle University, focusing on photoluminescent inks using carbon nanodots. In addition to her technical expertise, Angelica has held leadership roles in various academic organizations, showcasing her teamwork and communication skills. Her multidisciplinary approach, academic excellence, and commitment to scientific advancement make her a promising and impactful researcher in the field of bioengineering and nanotechnology.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile

Education

Angelica Rachel E. Carpio is currently pursuing a dual degree program—Bachelor and Master of Science in Biological Engineering—at Mapúa University in Manila, Philippines, from 2020 to 2025. Her academic journey reflects consistent excellence, having previously completed the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) strand during her senior high school years at the same university. Throughout her education, Angelica has been recognized for her academic performance, earning quarterly and semestral honors. Her foundational years at St. Mary’s Academy of Caloocan City also demonstrate early academic strength. Her coursework blends bioengineering, nanotechnology, and computational sciences, preparing her for interdisciplinary research. Her involvement in technical and laboratory-intensive education has equipped her with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, making her a well-rounded scholar capable of tackling complex scientific challenges across engineering and life sciences.

Professional Experience

Angelica Rachel E. Carpio has gained practical research and academic experience in multiple capacities across institutions. As of March 2025, she serves as a Project Technical Assistant I at De La Salle University’s Center for Natural Sciences and Environmental Research, where she is actively involved in nanotechnology research, particularly the development of photoluminescent inks using carbon nanodots. Previously, she completed a research internship at National I-lan University in Taiwan, contributing to projects in biochemistry and microbial fuel cells, which culminated in a scholarly publication. Her earlier experience includes a role as a Student Assistant at Mapúa University, where she facilitated administrative tasks and student outreach. She also participated in a scientific immersion program in Tokyo, Japan, expanding her global perspective. These diverse roles reflect a well-rounded professional background that combines scientific inquiry, technical execution, and organizational support, laying a strong foundation for a research-intensive career.

Research Interest

Angelica’s research interests are rooted in the intersection of bioengineering, nanotechnology, and computational biology. She focuses on developing therapeutic strategies using natural products, such as plant metabolites and microbial fermentation, combined with modern molecular techniques. Her recent publications explore the anti-cancer potential of Vaccinium-derived compounds and the enhanced production of anthraquinones in rhubarb through fermentation, showcasing her inclination toward pharmacological innovation using bioinformatics tools like molecular docking and network analysis. She is also engaged in nanomaterial research, particularly in developing carbon-based nanodots for photoluminescent applications, revealing a keen interest in functional biomaterials. Her ability to integrate wet-lab experiments with computational modeling highlights a strong systems-level approach to research. This multidimensional interest positions her at the forefront of modern biological engineering, where she aims to bridge natural sciences with engineered solutions for health and environmental applications.

Award and Honor

Angelica Rachel Carpio has consistently earned recognition for her academic and leadership excellence throughout her educational journey. She has received quarterly and semestral academic excellence awards during her time in senior high school at Mapúa University, where she graduated with honors. At St. Mary’s Academy of Caloocan City, she was also an Academic Excellence Awardee, underscoring her consistent performance from an early age. While specific research awards are not listed, her publications in reputable international journals, her international research internship in Taiwan, and participation in a scientific immersion in Japan stand as strong indicators of merit. Furthermore, her selection as a Project Technical Assistant I at a prominent research center such as De La Salle University is, in itself, a form of professional recognition. These accomplishments reflect both academic rigor and early research impact, validating her potential as a high-achieving scholar and future leader in scientific research.

Conclusion

Angelica Rachel E. Carpio emerges as a promising and multifaceted researcher with a solid educational background, hands-on professional experience, and a clear focus on innovation at the intersection of nanotechnology and biological engineering. Her early contributions to research through published work, international exposure, and technical roles at prestigious institutions showcase her ability to apply scientific knowledge to real-world problems. Angelica’s diverse skill set—from laboratory techniques and computational modeling to leadership in academic organizations—demonstrates maturity beyond her years. She represents the new generation of researchers who are collaborative, globally aware, and technically adept. With continued mentorship and opportunities to expand her research portfolio, Angelica is well on track to make meaningful contributions to the scientific community. Her credentials make her an excellent candidate for honors such as the Best Researcher Award, especially in the category of emerging or early-career researchers.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Berries as Nature’s Therapeutics: Exploring the Potential of Vaccinium Metabolites in Gastric Cancer Treatment Through Computational Insights
    Authors: Carpio, Angelica Rachel; Talubo, Nicholas Dale D.; Tsai, Po Wei; Chen, Boryann; Tayo, Lemmuel Lara
    Year: 2025
    Journal: Life

Yan Ni | Pharmaceutical Research | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yan Ni | Pharmaceutical Research | Best Researcher Award

Executive Director, Passage bio, United States

Profile

Google Scholar

Researcher Evaluation for “Best Researcher Award”

Strengths for the Award:

Extensive Expertise in Drug Development: Yan G. Ni, PhD, has over 15 years of experience in drug development, particularly in small molecules, biologics, and gene therapies. His work spans several critical therapeutic areas, including neurological and cardiovascular diseases, immune-oncology, hematology, and rare diseases. His contributions to IND/CTA submissions and regulatory interactions further highlight his deep involvement in the field.

Leadership in Translational Biomarker and Precision Medicine: Dr. Ni has demonstrated significant expertise in integrating preclinical and clinical biomarker strategies, contributing to the successful design and execution of biomarker-based clinical endpoints. His role in implementing PK and immunogenicity strategies across different phases of studies showcases his ability to bridge the gap between research and clinical application, a crucial factor in modern drug development.

Proven Management Skills: Dr. Ni’s management experience is evident in his ability to build and lead high-performing cross-functional teams. His leadership roles in international professional organizations like the AAPS and SAPA, as well as his track record of mentoring and inspiring others, underline his effectiveness as a leader in both scientific and organizational contexts.

High Scientific Productivity: With over 35 peer-reviewed publications, several book chapters, and six U.S. patents, Dr. Ni’s scientific output is substantial. His contributions to industry white papers and his role as an organizer and invited speaker at national and international conferences further affirm his thought leadership in the field.

Recognition and Awards: Dr. Ni has received numerous prestigious awards, such as the Passage Bio High Impact Award, Regeneron High Impact Award, AAPS Excellence in Ligand Binding Assays Award, and Merck Award of Excellence. These accolades reflect his high-impact contributions to the field and recognition by peers and industry leaders.

Areas for Improvement:

Broader Impact Beyond Specialized Fields: While Dr. Ni’s expertise is well-recognized within specialized areas such as biomarkers, precision medicine, and drug development, expanding his influence into broader, interdisciplinary research domains could enhance his candidacy for a “Best Researcher Award.” For example, engaging in research that impacts public health or other critical global issues might increase his visibility and impact.

Further Innovation in Emerging Therapeutic Areas: While Dr. Ni has made significant contributions to established therapeutic areas, greater involvement in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence in drug discovery or personalized medicine could position him as a pioneer in these rapidly evolving areas.

Enhanced Collaboration with Global Initiatives: Although Dr. Ni has demonstrated leadership in professional organizations and consortia, expanding his collaborative efforts to include global health initiatives or large-scale, multi-national research projects could further amplify his contributions and align with broader global research priorities.

Professional Experience

Passage Bio, Philadelphia, PA
Executive Director, Biomarkers and Precision Medicine
2021-Present
Senior Director, Head of Biomarkers and Precision Medicine
2020-2021

Built and led a high-performing team responsible for driving clinical biomarker, PK/biodistribution, immunogenicity studies, and supporting clinical operations.

Developed and implemented biomarker, PK, and immunogenicity strategies to inform decision-making for neurodegenerative disease portfolios.

Led biomarker and precision medicine support for IND/CTA submissions and global regulatory interactions.

Oversaw partnerships with external CROs and laboratories, and collaborated with Clinical Study Teams on biomarker inclusion in clinical portfolios.

Regeneron, Tarrytown, NY
Associate Director, Precision Medicine, Early Clinical Development & Experimental Sciences
2016-2020

Designed and implemented biomarker strategies to support dose selection and efficacy readings for complement-mediated rare diseases.

Provided strategic leadership for discovery and early cardiovascular programs, influencing biomarker-driven decisions on target validation, disease indication selection, and patient stratification.

Led multiple biomarker-focused natural history studies with academic and clinical centers.

Bristol Myers Squibb, Princeton, NJ
Senior Research Investigator II, R&D/PD/ABD/BAS-Biologics
2012-2016

Supported biomarker bioanalytical strategy implementation for immuno-oncology, immunology, and cardiovascular diseases.

Supervised biomarker method development and validation by internal staff and CROs.

Provided strategic and technical input on biomarker bioanalytical plans, resources, and timelines for FIH and PoC studies.

Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ
Senior Research Scientist, Cardiovascular Franchise Atherosclerosis Group
2007-2011

Led the development of a 2nd generation fully human monoclonal antibody for PCSK9.

Established ELISA-based pharmacodynamics and target engagement biomarker assays.

University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX
Research Assistant Professor, Internal Medicine Department, Cardiology
2001-2007
Research Scientist, Department of Pharmacology & Alliance for Cellular Signaling
2001-2007

Conducted research on cardiac hypertrophy, heart failure, and aging, focusing on Akt and FOXO transcriptional factors.

Education and Training

Persuasive Leadership Development: Wharton Business School, University of Pennsylvania

Postdoctoral Training: Yale University, under Professors Gary Rudnick and Eric Nestler

Ph.D. in Neuroscience: University of California, Irvine, under Professor Ricardo Miledi

M.S. in Pharmacology: Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing, China

B.S. in Biochemistry: Anhui University, Hefei, China

Professional Honors

Passage Bio High Impact Award (2021)

Regeneron High Impact Award and Multiple STAR Awards (2016-2020)

AAPS Excellence in Ligand Binding Assays Award (2015)

BMS R&D ROC Award and Multiple STAR Awards (2014)

Merck Award of Excellence (2007, 2008, 2009)

Professional Affiliations

American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS):

Founding Member and Chair of the Biomarkers and Translational Medicine Community

Founding Member and Chair of the Gene and Cell Therapeutic Products Community

Sino-American Pharmaceutical Professionals Association (SAPA):

Director for Public Outreach and Executive Committee Member

Publications

Yang, J., Mapelli, C., Wang, Z., et al. (2022). An Optimized Agonist Peptide of Protease-activated Receptor 4 and its Use in a Platelet Aggregation Assay to Monitor the Pharmacodynamic Effects of PAR4 Antagonists. Platelets. DOI: 10.1080/09537104.2022.2053091

Hays, A., Amaravadi, L., Fernandez-Metzler, C., et al. (2022). Is Incurred Sample Reanalysis (ISR) applicable in Biomarker Assays? AAPS J, 24:65. DOI: 10.1208/s12248-022-00708-y

Ni, Y.G., King, L., Fernández-Metzler, C. (2022). Recent Progress in Biomarker Bioanalysis and Target Engagement in Bioanalytical Aspects in Biological Therapeutics. ISBN: 9781119523215. Edited by Xu, X. & Xu, W.

Conclusion:

Dr. Yan G. Ni, PhD, is an outstanding candidate for the “Best Researcher Award” based on his extensive contributions to drug development, biomarker research, and precision medicine. His leadership, scientific productivity, and recognition by peers make him a strong contender for the award. However, expanding his research impact into broader and more emerging fields could further strengthen his profile for this prestigious recognition.