Hengbing Zu | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Hengbing Zu | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Jinshan Hospital affiliated to Fudan University, Shanghai, China

Dr. Hengbing Zu is a distinguished neurologist with over 30 years of academic and research experience. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Anhui Medical University, his Master’s in Neurology from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, and his Doctorate from Fudan University’s Shanghai Medical College. As a professor and dean at the Department of Neurology, Jinshan Hospital of Fudan University, Dr. Zu has dedicated over two decades to researching the relationship between altered brain cholesterol metabolism and the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). His pioneering work suggests that brain neuronal cholesterol deficiency is a shared neurochemical mechanism in both Familial and Sporadic AD. Through in-vitro studies, he demonstrated that cholesterol deficiency can trigger key pathological features of AD, including Aβ generation, tau hyperphosphorylation, and neuroinflammation. Dr. Zu’s unified “AD-cholesterol hypothesis” offers a novel perspective on AD progression, making significant contributions to the field of neurodegenerative disease research.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile

Education

Dr. Hengbing Zu has a strong and comprehensive educational background in clinical medicine and neurology. He obtained his Bachelor of Medicine from Anhui Medical University between 1981 and 1986, laying a solid foundation in medical sciences. He continued his academic journey by pursuing a Master’s degree in Neurology at Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine from 1996 to 1999, where he deepened his specialization in neurological disorders. Seeking to further advance his expertise, Dr. Zu earned his Doctor of Medicine degree in Neurology at the prestigious Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University from 2007 to 2011. His educational progression across top Chinese institutions reflects both his dedication to continuous learning and his commitment to excelling in the field of neurology. This extensive academic preparation has equipped Dr. Zu with a strong theoretical and practical understanding, which has underpinned his later research innovations in Alzheimer’s disease and neurodegenerative disorders.

Professional Experience

Dr. Hengbing Zu is an experienced academic leader and clinical practitioner with over three decades of service in neurology. He currently serves as a Professor and Dean of the Department of Neurology at Jinshan Hospital, affiliated with Fudan University. In this capacity, Dr. Zu oversees clinical services, research programs, and educational initiatives, playing a pivotal role in shaping the department’s strategic direction. His professional career has been distinguished by a strong focus on integrating clinical practice with research, especially in neurodegenerative diseases. Dr. Zu has consistently contributed to advancing neurological care by combining patient-centered treatment with cutting-edge scientific research. His leadership has helped foster an environment that promotes both academic inquiry and clinical excellence. Throughout his career, he has mentored young researchers, collaborated across disciplines, and worked to enhance the understanding and management of Alzheimer’s disease. His extensive experience solidifies his reputation as a respected figure in Chinese neurology.

Research Interest

Dr. Hengbing Zu’s primary research interest centers on the neurochemical mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s disease (AD), with a particular focus on brain cholesterol metabolism. For over twenty years, he has explored how alterations in neuronal cholesterol contribute to the onset and progression of both Familial and Sporadic forms of AD. His groundbreaking work demonstrated that a deficiency in brain neuronal cholesterol can induce AD-associated pathological processes such as amyloid-beta accumulation, tau hyperphosphorylation, and neuroinflammation. Based on these findings, Dr. Zu proposed the unified “AD-cholesterol hypothesis,” suggesting that neuronal cholesterol deficiency could be a common pathogenic mechanism for all types of AD. His research bridges basic science with potential clinical applications, offering new perspectives for understanding, diagnosing, and eventually treating Alzheimer’s disease. Dr. Zu’s dedication to unraveling the molecular basis of AD has positioned him as a leading figure in cholesterol-related neurodegenerative research, significantly advancing knowledge in this critical area.

Award and Honor

Although specific awards and honors were not detailed in the provided information, Dr. Hengbing Zu’s academic and professional standing suggest a high level of recognition within his field. Serving as the Professor and Dean of the Department of Neurology at a leading university hospital indicates his peers’ strong acknowledgment of his contributions to neurology and research. It is reasonable to infer that he has been honored for his long-term dedication to Alzheimer’s disease research and academic leadership. His original proposal of the “AD-cholesterol hypothesis” represents a major intellectual achievement likely recognized through institutional and possibly national awards. In addition to formal accolades, Dr. Zu’s influence is reflected in the respect he commands within academic and medical communities. Future nominations and recognitions at the international level could further highlight his critical contributions to understanding neurodegenerative diseases, reinforcing his stature as a thought leader in neuroscience research.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Hengbing Zu is an outstanding researcher, clinician, and academic leader whose career has been dedicated to advancing the field of neurology. Through his extensive education, clinical practice, and innovative research, he has made a lasting impact on the understanding of Alzheimer’s disease, particularly through his development of the “AD-cholesterol hypothesis.” His professional experience reflects a seamless blend of clinical excellence and scientific inquiry, ensuring that his research remains deeply connected to patient needs. Dr. Zu’s long-standing focus on brain cholesterol metabolism in AD has opened new avenues for diagnosis and potential treatment strategies. Although further global recognition could strengthen his profile, his current achievements already place him among the leading experts in his field. Dr. Zu’s contributions exemplify the spirit of scientific advancement and dedication, making him a highly deserving candidate for awards recognizing excellence in research and innovation in neurological sciences.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: New insight into the role of altered brain cholesterol metabolism in the pathogenesis of AD: A unifying cholesterol hypothesis and new therapeutic approach for AD

    • Authors: Yang, Xiaobo; Yao, Kai; Zhang, Mengqi; Zhang, Wenbin; Zu, Hengbing

    • Year: 2025

  • Title: Cellular Cholesterol Loss Impairs Synaptic Vesicle Mobility via the CAMK2/Synapsin-1 Signaling Pathway

    • Authors: Qurban, Atikam; Zhang, Mengqi; Zu, Hengbing; Yao, Kai

    • Journal: Frontiers in Bioscience

    • Year: 2025

  • Title: The association between plasma trans-fatty acids level and migraine: A cross-sectional study from NHANES 1999–2000

    • Authors: Yao, Kai; Zu, Hengbing

    • Journal: Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids

    • Year: 2024

Pilar Bosque Varela | Neuroscience | Best Scholar Award

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Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela | Neuroscience | Best Scholar Award

Neurologist, PhD at Christian Doppler klinik, Austria

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela is a highly accomplished clinician-scientist specializing in epilepsy, with a particular focus on status epilepticus and neuroimaging. She has delivered numerous invited talks and oral presentations at major international conferences, including the American Epilepsy Congress, the European Epilepsy Congress, and the London-Innsbruck Colloquium. Dr. Bosque Varela has published extensively in high-impact journals, contributing significantly to advancing the understanding of MRI abnormalities in status epilepticus. Her work has been recognized with the prestigious Ernst Niedermeyer Prize from the Austrian Epilepsy Society in 2024. Committed to academic excellence, she has also pursued continuous professional development through specialized training programs such as the VIREPA EEG course. Through her research, international collaborations, and clinical expertise, Dr. Bosque Varela has made notable contributions to the field of neurology, positioning herself as a rising leader in epilepsy research. Her dedication and achievements make her a strong candidate for top academic honors.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile

Education

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela has built a strong educational foundation in neurology and epilepsy research. She has completed rigorous medical and specialized training with a focus on epilepsy diagnostics and neuroimaging, particularly using advanced MRI techniques. Her commitment to academic excellence is reflected in her completion of internationally recognized programs, such as the VIREPA EEG course offered by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), earning 42 academic credits. Dr. Bosque Varela’s educational path combines a solid medical education with advanced subspecialty training, positioning her with the necessary skills to contribute meaningfully to the field of epilepsy research. Her early investment in both clinical and research skills has enabled her to develop a unique profile that bridges practical neurological care with academic inquiry. Her continuous learning and pursuit of excellence have equipped her to conduct high-quality research and contribute to innovation in neurological sciences.

Professional Experience

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela has amassed significant professional experience through clinical work, research, and academic contributions, primarily centered around epilepsy and neuroimaging. She has served in various clinical settings, gaining expertise in diagnosing and managing complex cases of status epilepticus. Her professional journey is marked by her participation in key conferences as an invited speaker and presenter, representing her institutions at international platforms across Europe and the United States. She is actively involved in collaborative research networks, contributing to large cohort studies and prospective investigations into MRI findings in epilepsy. Dr. Bosque Varela’s career reflects a balance between hands-on clinical excellence and academic productivity. Her consistent involvement in prestigious congresses like the American Academy of Neurology and the European Epilepsy Congress showcases her growing reputation as a clinician-researcher. Through her dual roles, she continues to impact both patient care and the scientific understanding of epilepsy, especially in acute seizure emergencies.

Research Interest

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela’s primary research interest lies in the neuroimaging and pathophysiology of status epilepticus, with a focus on developing diagnostic and prognostic tools using MRI technology. She has dedicated her academic efforts to making “the invisible visible,” enhancing early diagnosis and outcome prediction in patients suffering from acute epileptic events. Her work has explored critical topics such as the relationship between seizure duration and MRI abnormalities, hyperperfusion imaging using arterial spin labeling, and differentiation between stroke and status epilepticus using advanced imaging techniques. In addition to epilepsy research, she has contributed to understanding neurological implications of systemic illnesses like COVID-19. Her approach combines clinical neurology, imaging science, and patient-centered research to drive better diagnostic protocols. By investigating peri-ictal MRI changes and their long-term consequences, Dr. Bosque Varela aims to improve patient outcomes, refine treatment strategies, and foster a deeper understanding of epilepsy at both cellular and systems levels.

Award and Honor

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela has received significant recognition for her outstanding contributions to epilepsy research. Notably, she was awarded the prestigious Ernst Niedermeyer Prize by the Austrian Epilepsy Society in 2024 for her groundbreaking paper titled “MRI fingerprints of status epilepticus: A case-control study.” This honor reflects her pioneering work in advancing neuroimaging techniques to better understand and diagnose status epilepticus. Beyond this, her research has consistently been selected for oral and poster presentations at highly competitive international conferences, including the American Epilepsy Congress, the European Epilepsy Congress, and the London-Innsbruck Colloquium. Her high-rated abstracts and invited speaker roles underscore the academic community’s recognition of the quality and impact of her work. Dr. Bosque Varela’s awards and accolades are a testament not only to her innovative research but also to her growing leadership in the field of neurology and epilepsy, highlighting her as a future leader in medical research.

Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated clinician-scientist whose contributions span high-impact research, clinical innovation, and educational advancement. Her academic rigor, professional dedication, and focused research interests in status epilepticus position her as an emerging leader in epilepsy research. With a strong record of publications, invited talks, prestigious awards, and international collaborations, Dr. Bosque Varela has demonstrated a profound commitment to advancing the understanding and treatment of epilepsy. Her work not only enriches the scientific community but also directly improves patient care outcomes, embodying the mission of translational medicine. Given her exceptional achievements and potential for continued leadership, Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela stands out as a highly deserving candidate for any scholarly recognition, including the Best Scholar Award. Her career trajectory promises ongoing contributions that will shape the future of epilepsy diagnosis and management globally.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title:
    Epilepsy and employment: A qualitative interview study with heads of human resources and occupational physicians in Austria — A call for legislative optimization according to the WHO Intersectoral Global Action Plan

  • Authors:
    M. Leitinger, C. Klampfer, L. Obermeyr, F. Schwimmbeck, E. Trinka

  • Year:
    2025

  • Citation (APA Style):
    Leitinger, M., Klampfer, C., Obermeyr, L., Schwimmbeck, F., & Trinka, E. (2025). Epilepsy and employment: A qualitative interview study with heads of human resources and occupational physicians in Austria — A call for legislative optimization according to the WHO Intersectoral Global Action Plan. Epilepsia.bd268

Fatin Atrooz | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Fatin Atrooz | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral fellow at University of Houston, United States

Dr. Fatin Y. Atrooz is a dedicated researcher and educator with expertise in behavioral neuroscience, substance use disorders, and minority health disparities. Currently, she serves as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Houston, College of Pharmacy and an Adjunct Faculty member at the University of Houston Downtown. Her research focuses on identifying the behavioral and neurobiological mechanisms underlying substance addiction, stress, and mental health disorders. With over two decades of experience in neuroscience, genetics, and public health research, Dr. Atrooz has contributed significantly to her field through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and editorial roles. She has also been actively involved in teaching at both undergraduate and graduate levels, mentoring students, and participating in professional development programs. Her passion for scientific discovery and education continues to drive her research aimed at addressing critical public health challenges, particularly in underserved populations.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Atrooz holds a Ph.D. in Behavioral Neuroscience (2018) from the University of Houston, College of Pharmacy, where she investigated the behavioral and biochemical effects of early-life sleep deprivation in rodents. She earned her Master of Science in Biology (Genetics, 1999) and Bachelor of Science in Biology (1996) from Yarmouk University, Jordan. Her master’s research focused on the antimutagenic effects of Coumarin on chromosomal damage induced by pharmaceutical agents. In addition, she completed a Harvard Catalyst certification in Applied Biostatistics, equipping her with advanced data analysis skills in SPSS, R, and GraphPad Prism. Her multidisciplinary education has enabled her to integrate molecular biology, neuroscience, and statistical modeling to advance understanding in addiction research and mental health disparities.

Professional Experience

Dr. Atrooz is currently a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Houston, where she conducts research on substance use, addiction, and neurobehavioral disorders. She is also an Adjunct Faculty at University of Houston Downtown, teaching Genetics and Human Anatomy & Physiology. Previously, she worked as a Senior Cytogenetics Lab Technologist (2001-2009) at King Abdullah University Hospital, Jordan, specializing in chromosomal analysis and molecular diagnostics. She also served as a Research Assistant at Yarmouk University and later at the University of Houston, gaining hands-on experience in rodent behavioral neuroscience, stereotaxic surgery, and neuropharmacology. Her extensive experience in both academic and clinical settings has provided her with a unique perspective on translational research, bridging laboratory findings with real-world health applications.

Research Interests

Dr. Atrooz’s research focuses on behavioral neuroscience, addiction, and minority health disparities. She investigates the neurobiological mechanisms underlying stress, addiction, and mental health disorders, with a particular interest in substance use among minority populations. Her work involves rodent models of addiction, electrophysiology, immunohistochemistry, and molecular biology to explore how early-life stress and environmental factors contribute to addiction vulnerability. Additionally, she conducts public health research on mental health disparities among immigrant and refugee populations, examining social determinants of health and substance use patterns. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates neuroscience, genetics, and public health, aiming to develop targeted interventions to improve mental health outcomes in underserved communities.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Atrooz has received numerous awards for her contributions to research and academia. She was awarded the prestigious 2023 NIDA Diversity Scholars Network Program Award, recognizing her work in addiction research. She also received the 2023 Research Centers for Minority Institutions (RCMI) Professional Development Fellowship and 2021 Postdoctoral Fellow Travel Award from the University of Houston. Her excellence in research was recognized with the 2019 Best Oral Presentation Award (Postdoctoral Category) at the University of Houston and the 2019 Excellent Paper Award at the International Conference on Science, Technology, and Management (ICSTM) in Dubai. Additionally, she was selected for the 2016 Future Fellow-to-Faculty Award, highlighting her potential as a leading researcher and educator. Her continuous dedication to research, mentorship, and public health has solidified her reputation as a distinguished scholar in her field.

Conclusion

Dr. Fatin Y. Atrooz is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given her diverse research expertise, strong publication record, multiple awards, and commitment to minority health research. Strengthening grant acquisition, independent research leadership, and high-impact publications would further solidify her as a top-tier researcher in her field.

Publications Top Noted

  • Atrooz, F., Khabour, O.F., Almomani, F., Alfurjani, B.H., Salim, S. (2024)
    Title: Education and socioeconomic status as predictors of refugee mental health: insights from a study of Jordan-based Syrian refugee sample
    Journal: Frontiers in Public Health
    Citations: 0
  • Li, Y., Zhang, S., Tang, C., Salim, S., Wu, T. (2024)
    Title: Autoimmune and neuropsychiatric phenotypes in a Mecp2 transgenic mouse model on C57BL/6 background
    Journal: Frontiers in Immunology
    Citations: 1
  • Atrooz, F., Majd, Z., Alrousan, G., Abughosh, S., Salim, S. (2023)
    Title: Acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination in a sample of Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) Houston residents
    Journal: PLOS Global Public Health
    Citations: 1
  • Atrooz, F., Aljararwah, S.M., Chen, T.A., Khabour, O.F., Salim, S. (2023)
    Title: Understanding Mental Health Status of Syrian Refugee and Jordanian Women: Novel Insights from a Comparative Study
    Journal: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
    Citations: 10
  • Atrooz, F., Aljararwah, S.M., Acquati, C., Khabour, O.F., Salim, S. (2023)
    Title: Breast Cancer Beliefs and Screening Practices among Syrian Refugee Women and Jordanian Women
    Journal: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
    Citations: 1
  • Zeidat, S., Fatima, B., Yazdanfard, S., Abughosh, S., Salim, S. (2022)
    Title: Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression during the COVID-19 Pandemic in a Sample of Houston-Based Middle Eastern and North African Residents
    Journal: Hygiene
    Citations: 1
  • Bian, W.-J., Atrooz, F., Patel, S., Rababa’h, A.M. (2022)
    Title: Editorial: Sleep Deprivation, Circadian Misalignment and Addiction Vulnerability in Adolescents
    Journal: Frontiers in Neuroscience
    Citations: 0
  • Alrousan, G., Hassan, A., Pillai, A.A., Atrooz, F., Salim, S. (2022)
    Title: Early Life Sleep Deprivation and Brain Development: Insights From Human and Animal Studies
    Journal: Frontiers in Neuroscience
    Citations: 15
  • Atrooz, F., Alrousan, G., Hassan, A., Salim, S. (2022)
    Title: Early-Life Sleep Deprivation Enhanced Alcohol Consumption in Adolescent Rats
    Journal: Frontiers in Neuroscience
    Citations: 7
  • Atrooz, F., Chen, T.A., Biekman, B., Bick, J., Salim, S. (2022)
    Title: Displacement and Isolation: Insights from a Mental Stress Survey of Syrian Refugees in Houston, Texas, USA
    Journal: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
    Citations: 11

 

Cinzia Volonté | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Cinzia Volonté | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dirigente di Ricerca, CNR-Istituto Analisi dei Sistemi e Informatica, Italy

Dr. Cinzia Volonté is a distinguished neuroscientist and expert in microglia, currently ranked among the top 0.073% of global experts in the field. Her exceptional career includes being named a top Italian scientist in neurosciences and holding several prestigious appointments, including EU Expert and ANVUR GEV Expert Evaluator. 🌟

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Distinguished Research Record:Dr. Volonté has a robust publication record with 141 total publications and high citation metrics (h-Index of 49 on Google Scholar, 43 on Web of Science, and 44 on Scopus). Her research in microglia and neurodegeneration is highly influential, reflected in her ranking as a top expert in the field and significant citations.
  2. Leadership and Recognition:She holds prominent positions, such as Research Director at CNR and Director of the Cellular Neurobiology Unit, indicating strong leadership and a long-standing commitment to her field.Her accolades include being ranked among the top Italian scientists in neurosciences and being nominated as an EU Expert, which underscores her recognition in the scientific community.
  3. Innovative Research Focus:Dr. Volonté’s research on purinergic and histaminergic signaling in neurodegenerative diseases like ALS and MS is cutting-edge. Her work involves developing novel therapeutic strategies, showcasing her contribution to advancing treatment options.
  4. Editorial and Evaluation Roles:Her extensive involvement in editorial boards and as a project evaluator highlights her influence and the trust placed in her expertise by various scientific and funding bodies.
  5. Patent Contributions:Dr. Volonté holds patents related to the prevention of cerebral ischemia and cytotoxicity, reflecting her practical impact on applied research and therapeutic development.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Impact and Interdisciplinary Work:While Dr. Volonté’s work is highly specialized, expanding her research to interdisciplinary fields or more diverse areas of neuroscience could enhance her impact and applicability across different scientific and medical domains.
  2. Public Engagement and Outreach:Increasing efforts in public science communication and outreach could help in making her research more accessible to a broader audience, including non-specialists and policymakers.
  3. Collaborative Research Initiatives:Building more collaborative projects with researchers outside her primary field of expertise could lead to new insights and innovations, fostering interdisciplinary approaches.

 

Education

Dr. Volonté earned her qualifications as a Full Professor in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from MIUR ASN-DD in 2013. Her academic journey has been marked by significant contributions to the fields of neuroscience and molecular biology. 🎓

Experience

Dr. Volonté has extensive experience as a Project Evaluator for various international research agencies, including the European Science Foundation and Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft. She has served as a scientific committee member and organizer for multiple conferences and has been involved in editorial responsibilities for leading journals. 🧠

Research Focus

Her research delves into the molecular mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation in ALS and MS. Dr. Volonté is particularly focused on purinergic and histaminergic signaling pathways, aiming to develop novel therapeutic strategies using advanced models and cell cultures. 🔬

Awards and Honours

Dr. Volonté has received several notable awards, including the Luca Barone Award from the Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei in 1984 and 1983. She was also honored with the Young Scientist Lectureship Award by the International Society for Neurochemistry in 1993. 🏆

Publication Top Notes

Skaper SD, Volonté C. MiRNAcles in the Brain: What to Wish and What to Fear. CNS Neurol Disord Drug Targets., 14(2), 155-156 (2015). DOI: 10.2174/187152731402150305113941

Volonté C, Apolloni S, Parisi C. MicroRNAs: Newcomers into the ALS Picture. CNS Neurol Disord Drug Targets., 14(2), 194-207 (2015). DOI: 10.2174/1871527314666150116125506

Volonté C, Parisi C, Apolloni S. New kid on the block: Does histamine get along with inflammation in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis? CNS Neurol Disord Drug Targets., 14(5), 677-86 (2015). DOI: 10.2174/1871527314666150225143921

Conclusion

Dr. Cinzia Volonté is a highly qualified candidate for the Research for Best Research Award due to her significant contributions to neuroscience, particularly in understanding neurodegeneration and developing novel therapeutic approaches. Her extensive publication record, high citation metrics, and leadership roles reflect her exceptional expertise and influence in her field. While there are opportunities to enhance the broader impact of her work and increase public engagement, her accomplishments and ongoing research make her a strong contender for this prestigious award.