William Usaquén | Population Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. William Usaquén | Population Genetics | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Colombia

Prof. Dr. William Usaquén is a distinguished Colombian researcher specializing in genetics, population studies, and forensic science, with a strong academic foundation that includes advanced degrees in biology and statistics. His career spans decades at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, complemented by international training in forensic genetics. He has led and contributed to numerous impactful research projects, including the genetic characterization of human populations and forensic applications, while actively advancing scientific methodologies. As an educator, he has taught at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, designed specialized courses, and supervised numerous student research projects. His interdisciplinary expertise bridges biology, statistics, anthropology, and forensic science, contributing to both academic knowledge and applied problem-solving. Recognized for excellence in teaching and scientific achievement, Prof. Dr. Usaquén combines rigorous scholarship with a commitment to developing future scientists, making him a respected figure in Colombian and Latin American scientific communities and a strong candidate for prestigious research awards.

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Education

Prof. Dr. William Usaquén holds a Doctorate and Master’s degree in Biological Sciences from the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, where he specialized in genetic population studies. His doctoral and master’s research involved advanced genetic characterization of Colombian populations using microsatellite markers. He also earned a specialization in statistics from the same university, enabling him to apply quantitative methods to genetic and forensic studies. His undergraduate degree in biology laid the foundation for his multidisciplinary approach, integrating molecular biology, genetics, anthropology, and statistics. Over the course of his academic training, he developed expertise in genetic analysis, biostatistics, and population genetics, which has informed his later research in both human and animal populations. Complementing his national education, he undertook international training in forensic genetics at the Institute for Legal Medicine, Innsbruck Medical University, broadening his technical proficiency and exposure to advanced forensic methodologies, further solidifying his expertise in interdisciplinary scientific research.

Experience

Prof. Dr. William Usaquén has built an extensive academic and professional career primarily at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, where he has served as a professor, researcher, and administrator for over two decades. His roles have included teaching undergraduate and postgraduate courses in genetics, experimental design, forensic medicine, and statistical applications in genetics. He has also coordinated specialized courses and training programs, contributing to capacity building in forensic and population genetics. Beyond academia, he has held leadership roles in national forensic science institutions, including coordinating laboratories and developing scientific information systems. His international experience includes training in forensic genetics in Austria, enhancing his global scientific perspective. Throughout his career, he has maintained an active presence in both research and applied science, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world forensic and genetic investigations. His career reflects a sustained commitment to research excellence, education, and the advancement of forensic and population genetics.

Research Focus

Prof. Dr. William Usaquén’s research centers on genetics, with a strong emphasis on population genetics, forensic genetics, and molecular anthropology. His work involves genetic characterization of human populations, particularly in Colombia, using microsatellite markers and other molecular tools. He has investigated genetic diversity, ancestral lineages, and population structures, contributing to understanding human migration, ancestry, and identity. In forensic contexts, his research applies genetic markers to individual identification, paternity testing, and criminal investigations, enhancing accuracy and reliability in legal medicine. Additionally, he has studied genetic traits in animal populations, such as cattle breeds, linking population genetics to agricultural and biodiversity conservation applications. His expertise in statistical genetics allows him to develop and refine methodologies for data analysis in complex genetic studies. By integrating molecular biology, statistics, anthropology, and forensics, his research contributes to both academic knowledge and practical solutions in fields ranging from evolutionary biology to judicial processes.

Award and Honor

Prof. Dr. William Usaquén has received multiple recognitions for his contributions to research, teaching, and forensic science. His awards include the title of Best Teacher in the Specialization in Forensic Medicine program at the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, acknowledging his excellence in education. He has been honored for scientific contributions in population genetics and forensic entomology by the Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal y Ciencias Forenses. His research has also earned top placements at national scientific congresses, reflecting the quality and impact of his work. Academic excellence awards further highlight his dedication to rigorous scholarship. These distinctions not only recognize his technical expertise but also his ability to mentor and inspire students and colleagues. His awards demonstrate a career marked by both scientific achievement and a commitment to advancing the quality of education and research in Colombia, reinforcing his reputation as a leading figure in genetics and forensic science.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Succession pattern of cadaverous entomofauna in a semi-rural area of Bogotá, Colombia
    Authors: NA Segura, W Usaquen, MC Sanchez, L Chuaire, F Bello
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 125

  • Title: Entomofauna resource distribution associated with pig cadavers in Bogotá DC
    Authors: NA Segura, MA Bonilla, W Usaquén, F Bello
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 45

  • Title: Allele frecuencies for thirteen SRT’S from to Colombian population: Bogotá and Boyacá
    Authors: BI William Usaquen Martinez, Giraldo A, Mauricio Rey M, Gutierrez A
    Year: 2003
    Citations: 23

  • Title: Paternal portrait of populations of the middle Magdalena River region (Tolima and Huila, Colombia): New insights on the peopling of Central America and northernmost South America
    Authors: LA Alonso Morales, A Casas-Vargas, M Rojas Castro, R Resque, W Usaquén
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 22

  • Title: Rutas migratorias hacia Suramérica y el poblamiento de las cuencas de los ríos Amazonas y Orinoco deducidas a partir de estudios genéticos moleculares
    Authors: G Keyeux, W Usaquén
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 19

  • Title: Y-chromosome and surname analysis of the native islanders of San Andrés and Providencia (Colombia)
    Authors: LA Alonso, W Usaquén
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 17

  • Title: Structure analysis of the La Guajira-Colombia population: a genetic, demographic and genealogical overview
    Authors: MY Rojas, LA Alonso, VA Sarmiento, LY Eljach, W Usaquén
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 16

  • Title: Contrasting the ancestry patterns of three distinct population groups from the northernmost region of South America
    Authors: F Mogollon Olivares, J Moncada Madero, A Casas‐Vargas, W Usaquén
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 15

  • Title: Diversidad del ADN mitocondrial en restos óseos prehispánicos
    Authors: A Casas-Vargas, LM Romero, W Usaquén, S Zea, M Silva, I Briceño
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 15

  • Title: Population genetic analysis of the Brahman cattle (Bos indicus) in Colombia with microsatellite markers
    Authors: MA Novoa, W Usaquén
    Year: 2010
    Citations: 14

  • Title: Ciclo de vida de Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae) como primera especie colonizadora presente en hígado humano realizado en el Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal y …
    Authors: W Usaquen, G Camacho
    Year: 2004
    Citations: 13

  • Title: Curvas de crecimiento y desarrollo de los primeros insectos colonizadores (Diptera: Calliphoridae) sobre cadáveres de cerdo (Sus scrofa) en Bogotá, Colombia
    Authors: N Segura, W Usaquén, M Sánchez, R Narváez, L Chuaire, G Camacho
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 12

  • Title: Next-generation sequencing of host genetics risk factors associated with COVID-19 severity and long-COVID in Colombian population
    Authors: M Angulo-Aguado, JC Carrillo-Martinez, NC Contreras-Bravo, A Morel, W Usaquén
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 11

  • Title: Evaluación de la variabilidad genética con marcadores microsatélites del bocachico
    Authors: D Santacruz, W Usaquen, C Burbano
    Year: 2003
    Citations: 11

  • Title: Ciclo de vida de Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae) como primera especie colonizadora presente en hígado humano realizado en el Instituto Nacional de Medicina Legal y …
    Authors: GP Camacho, W Usaquén
    Year: 2004
    Citations: 9

Conclusion

The publication record of Prof. Dr. William Usaquén demonstrates a sustained and diverse research output spanning forensic entomology, population genetics, molecular anthropology, and applied forensic science. His work includes both foundational studies in Colombian population genetics and innovative applications of genetic tools in criminal investigations and biodiversity analysis. Many of his publications have appeared in reputable international journals and have attracted significant citations, with several studies serving as reference points in their respective fields. The breadth of topics—from cadaverous entomofauna succession patterns to next-generation sequencing in COVID-19 research—shows adaptability and a capacity to address both classical and emerging scientific questions. This body of work reflects a researcher with strong interdisciplinary integration, impactful scientific contributions, and a capacity to produce knowledge that informs both academia and applied sectors. Collectively, his publications provide strong evidence of research excellence and international relevance, reinforcing his candidacy for prestigious research recognitions.

Yunlong Liu | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yunlong Liu | Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology | Best Researcher Award

lecturer at Tiangong university, China

Dr. Yunlong Liu is a distinguished structural biologist specializing in transcriptional regulation and nuclear receptor mechanisms. He is currently a Lecturer at Tiangong University, where he contributes to cutting-edge research in biochemistry and molecular biology. His expertise lies in protein structure determination, molecular interactions, and drug discovery, particularly in identifying potent inhibitors for nuclear receptors. With multiple high-impact publications, including Nucleic Acids Research and Cell Discovery, Dr. Liu has established himself as a promising researcher in his field. He has secured national-level research funding and actively contributes to prestigious scientific projects. Recognized for his academic excellence, he has received numerous awards, including the Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award and National Ph.D. Scholarship. His work not only advances fundamental biological understanding but also holds potential for therapeutic applications. With a strong foundation in research and teaching, Dr. Liu continues to make significant contributions to the field of structural biology.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Yunlong Liu completed his Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at China Agricultural University in 2023, where he conducted groundbreaking research on structural biology and transcriptional regulation. His doctoral work involved the determination of multiple protein and nucleic acid complex structures, providing critical insights into nuclear receptor function. During his Ph.D., he was recognized for his exceptional academic performance, receiving the Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award and National Ph.D. Scholarship. Prior to his doctoral studies, he earned his undergraduate degree from a prestigious institution, excelling in both coursework and research. His academic journey has been marked by a strong emphasis on molecular mechanisms and protein interactions, laying the foundation for his current research. With a solid background in structural biology and biochemistry, Dr. Liu has developed expertise in crystallography, molecular modeling, and drug discovery, positioning him as a leading researcher in his field.

Professional Experience

Dr. Yunlong Liu is currently a Lecturer in the College of Life Sciences at Tiangong University, where he teaches and mentors students in biochemistry and molecular biology. Before this role, he conducted extensive doctoral research at China Agricultural University, focusing on protein structural analysis and transcriptional regulation. His research contributions include the identification of a highly potent nuclear receptor inhibitor and the resolution of multiple protein-DNA complex structures. As a key member of several national research projects, he has played an instrumental role in advancing molecular biology research in China. He has also secured independent research funding, serving as the Principal Investigator for a National Natural Science Foundation of China project. His professional experience extends beyond academia, as his research findings have implications for pharmaceutical development and biomedical sciences. Through his teaching and research, Dr. Liu continues to shape the next generation of scientists while making significant contributions to his field.

Research Interests

Dr. Yunlong Liu’s research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of transcriptional regulation, nuclear receptor functions, and protein-nucleic acid interactions. His work in structural biology involves determining the 3D structures of key biomolecules using advanced crystallography techniques, providing crucial insights into gene regulation and disease pathways. He is particularly interested in studying nuclear receptors and their role in gene expression, with the aim of identifying novel therapeutic targets for metabolic and genetic disorders. His research has led to the discovery of a nuclear receptor inhibitor with significantly enhanced efficacy, highlighting the potential for drug development. Additionally, he explores epigenetic modifications and their structural basis, contributing to the broader understanding of gene regulation. With a strong commitment to advancing biomedical research, Dr. Liu continues to explore new methodologies and collaborative approaches to address fundamental questions in biochemistry and molecular biology.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Yunlong Liu has been widely recognized for his outstanding contributions to structural biology and molecular research. He received the Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award from China Agricultural University, an honor granted to only one recipient in his college. His academic excellence also earned him the National Ph.D. Scholarship, where he ranked second in his college. Throughout his career, he has been involved in prestigious research projects funded by national and provincial organizations, including the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the Tianjin Top Scientist Studio Program. His achievements in protein structure determination and transcriptional regulation have led to publications in top-tier journals such as Nucleic Acids Research and Cell Discovery. His early accomplishments include awards in mathematical modeling competitions and national scholarships during his undergraduate studies. With a track record of excellence, Dr. Liu continues to receive accolades for his impactful research and academic contributions.

Conclusion

Dr. Yunlong Liu is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his high-impact research, prestigious awards, and leadership in structural biology. His work in transcriptional regulation and nuclear receptors is scientifically significant and widely recognized. Strengthening international collaborations, expanding independent funding, and showcasing mentorship contributions could further elevate his standing.

Publications Top Noted

1. Nucleic Acid-Based Therapies

  • Title: The Progress and Evolving Trends in Nucleic-Acid-Based Therapies
  • Authors: Liu, Y., Wang, C., Fu, X., & Ren, M.
  • Year: 2025
  • Journal: Biomolecules
  • DOI: 10.3390/biom15030376

2. Nucleic Acid Recognition and 6mA Demethylation

  • Title: Structural Basis of Nucleic Acid Recognition and 6mA Demethylation by Caenorhabditis elegans NMAD-1A
  • Authors: Shang, G., Yang, M., Li, M., Ma, L., Liu, Y., Ma, J., Chen, Y., Wang, X., Fan, S., Xie, M., et al.
  • Year: 2024
  • Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
  • DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020686

3. Transcriptional Regulation and Structural Insights

  • Title: Structures of Human TR4LBD–JAZF1 and TR4DBD–DNA Complexes Reveal the Molecular Basis of Transcriptional Regulation
  • Authors: Liu, Y., Ma, L., Li, M., Tian, Z., Yang, M., Wu, X., Wang, X., Shang, G., Xie, M., Chen, Y., et al.
  • Year: 2023
  • Journal: Nucleic Acids Research
  • DOI: 10.1093/nar/gkac1259

4. Molecular Recognition of Nucleosomes

  • Title: Structures of MPND Reveal the Molecular Recognition of Nucleosomes
  • Authors: Yang, M., Li, X., Tian, Z., Ma, L., Ma, J., Liu, Y., Shang, G., Liang, A., Wu, W., Chen, Z.
  • Year: 2023
  • Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
  • DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043368

5. Epigenetic Functions and Nucleic Acid Repair

  • Title: Structural Insights into the Interactions and Epigenetic Functions of Human Nucleic Acid Repair Protein ALKBH6
  • Authors: Ma, L., Lu, H., Tian, Z., Yang, M., Ma, J., Shang, G., Liu, Y., Xie, M., Wang, G., Wu, W., et al.
  • Year: 2022
  • Journal: Journal of Biological Chemistry
  • DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.101671

6. Protein-DNA Complex and Recognition Mechanisms

  • Title: Crystal Structures of REF6 and Its Complex with DNA Reveal Diverse Recognition Mechanisms
  • Authors: Tian, Z., Li, X., Li, M., Wu, W., Zhang, M., Tang, C., Li, Z., Liu, Y., Chen, Z., Yang, M., et al.
  • Year: 2020
  • Journal: Cell Discovery
  • DOI: 10.1038/s41421-020-0150-6