Xiaocui Wan | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiaocui Wan | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xiaocui Wan, Anhui University, China

Dr. Xiao-Cui Wan is a dedicated PhD student at Anhui University, specializing in peptide and protein engineering. Her research centers on constructing and screening large-scale gene coding cyclic peptide libraries and innovating methods for peptide cyclization. With three first-author publications in top-tier journals, she has already made significant contributions to chemical biology and molecular design. Dr. Wan is passionate about developing novel biochemical tools and has introduced pioneering techniques in peptide synthesis. Her academic diligence and innovative spirit have positioned her as a promising young researcher in molecular biotechnology. 📚🧬🔬

Publication Profile

Scopus

🎓 Education

Xiao-Cui Wan is currently pursuing her PhD in the field of chemical biology at Anhui University, China. Her doctoral research focuses on advanced techniques for constructing peptide macrocycle libraries and modifying protein structures for enhanced biochemical function. Through rigorous training in peptide synthesis, enzymatic cyclization, and molecular display systems, she has developed deep expertise in biomolecular design. She also holds prior academic qualifications in life sciences and biochemistry, forming a strong foundation for her current research. Her educational journey reflects a commitment to innovation, problem-solving, and scientific excellence in the field of molecular biology. 🎓🧪📖

💼 Experience

A PhD candidate at Anhui University, Xiao-Cui Wan has led and contributed to five significant research projects, each focusing on cutting-edge strategies in peptide cyclization and library screening. Her work has resulted in three first-author papers in high-impact journals such as Organic Letters and Chemical Science. She has also collaborated on advanced studies using ligase-based and enzyme-mediated methods for macrocyclic peptide synthesis. While still early in her career, Dr. Wan’s research experiences highlight her growing expertise in synthetic biology and protein chemistry, showcasing her potential as a future leader in peptide therapeutics. 🧫🔍📊

🏅 Awards and Honors

Though still in the early stages of her academic career, Xiao-Cui Wan has achieved significant recognition through her first-author publications in internationally respected journals like Organic Letters and Chemical Science. These accomplishments reflect both the quality and impact of her research. Her innovations in peptide cyclization have earned her distinction among peers and mentors, and her nomination for the “Best Researcher Award” further underlines her contributions to the scientific community. As her career progresses, she is well-positioned to receive further accolades for her pioneering work in molecular biotechnology. 🏆📜🌟

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Xiao-Cui Wan’s research focuses on the construction and screening of gene-coded cyclic peptide libraries and the structural-functional modification of peptides and proteins. She specializes in enzyme-mediated cyclization techniques, such as using sortase and omniligase for developing macrocyclic ligands. Her work explores novel chemical strategies like thioproline oxidation and phage display systems for therapeutic peptide discovery. These contributions aim to enhance the efficiency and specificity of biologically active molecules. Her research lies at the intersection of synthetic biology, chemical synthesis, and molecular medicine. 🧪🧬💡

Publication Top Notes

  • 📄 Asparaginyl Endopeptidase-Mediated Peptide Cyclization for Phage DisplayOrganic Letters, 2024
    🔗 DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.4c00602
    📅 Published: April 2024

  • 📄 Employing Unnatural Promiscuity of Sortase to Construct Peptide Macrocycle Libraries for Ligand DiscoveryChemical Science, 2024
    🔗 DOI: 10.1039/D4SC01992J
    📅 Published: May 2024

  • 📄 Thioproline-Based Oxidation Strategy for Direct Preparation of N-Terminal Thiazolidine-Containing Peptide Thioesters from Peptide HydrazidesOrganic Letters, 2024
    🔗 DOI: 10.1021/acs.orglett.4c01687
    📅 Published: June 2024

  • 📄 A Ligase-Based Two-Step Approach for the Generation of Bicyclic Peptides Containing a Benzylphenyl Thioether FrameworkChemBioChem, 2025
    🔗 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202500240
    📅 Published: 2025

  • 📄 Omniligase-1 Mediated Peptide Cyclization for Phage DisplayChemRxiv Preprint, 2025
    🔗 DOI: 10.26434/chemrxiv-2025-58n67-v2
    📅 Published: April 2025

Assoc Prof. Dr. Yusuf Surmeli | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof. Dr. Yusuf Surmeli | Biochemistry | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof. Dr. Yusuf Surmeli, Associate Professor, Tekirdag Namik Kemal University, Turkey.

Yusuf Sürmeli is an Associate Professor at Tekirdağ Namık Kemal University, specializing in Agricultural Biotechnology. He has extensive research experience in molecular biology, genetics, and biotechnology, contributing to the understanding of thermophilic enzymes and their biotechnological applications. His dedication to innovation in enzyme engineering and biochemistry has garnered him recognition in academic circles.

Profile

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Strengths

  1. Extensive Academic Background: Yusuf Sürmeli holds a PhD in Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Biotechnology, which reflects a strong foundation in his field. His progression from research assistant to associate professor highlights his commitment to academia and research.
  2. Research Experience: His positions at various institutions, particularly in the fields of molecular biology, genetics, and agricultural biotechnology, show his versatility and deep involvement in research across multiple domains.
  3. Significant Publication Record: With 223 citations and an H-index of 8, Yusuf has a substantial body of work. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles, many as corresponding author, indicating leadership in his research endeavors. His work spans biotechnological advancements, protein engineering, and enzyme applications, which have both academic and industrial relevance.
  4. Collaborative Efforts: Many of his publications involve collaboration with multiple co-authors, suggesting strong teamwork skills, which are crucial in scientific research. His work on biotechnologically important enzymes shows his ability to contribute to cutting-edge topics in biotechnology.
  5. Conference Participation: Yusuf has actively participated in national and international conferences, presenting his research findings through oral and poster presentations. This engagement enhances his academic presence and fosters wider dissemination of his work.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Impact of Research: While Yusuf’s research is highly specialized in enzyme characterization and molecular biology, increasing the practical applications of his work in industrial or medical settings might enhance the societal impact of his research. Expanding beyond computational studies to more experimental applications could strengthen his contributions.
  2. Citations and Influence: Although he has 223 citations, increasing the citation impact (H-index) would be beneficial for award considerations. Strategies could include publishing in more high-impact journals and collaborating on larger, cross-disciplinary projects that attract more attention.
  3. International Collaborations: Engaging in more international collaborations or participating in global projects could broaden the scope of his research and help in gaining further recognition in the global scientific community.

📚 Education

Dr. Sürmeli earned his PhD in Molecular Biology-Genetics and Biotechnology from Istanbul Technical University in 2020. He also holds an MSc in Biotechnology & Bioengineering from İzmir Institute of Technology (2013) and a BSc in Molecular Biology and Genetics from Istanbul University (2008). His academic journey reflects a strong foundation in life sciences, enriched by multidisciplinary research across prestigious institutions.

💼 Academic Experience

Dr. Sürmeli has held various academic roles, starting as a Research Assistant and rising to his current position as an Associate Professor. His academic career began at Tekirdağ Namık Kemal University in the Department of Agricultural Biotechnology. He also worked as a Research Assistant at Istanbul Technical University, gaining invaluable experience in molecular biology. His academic path is marked by progression through various research and teaching positions, reflecting his commitment to scientific advancement.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Sürmeli’s research interests focus on enzyme engineering, thermophilic organisms, and protein biochemistry. He is particularly interested in the biotechnological applications of enzymes in agriculture, bioengineering, and industrial processes. His work on thermostable esterases and lipases is pioneering, addressing crucial challenges in sustainable technology and industry.

🏆 Awards and Nominations

Yusuf Sürmeli has been recognized for his contributions to science with nominations for prestigious awards in biochemistry and biotechnology. His innovative work in molecular biology and enzyme engineering continues to shape the future of agricultural biotechnology. As an expert in his field, he is frequently invited to present his findings at international conferences, where his groundbreaking work garners wide acclaim.

📝 Publications

Dr. Sürmeli has published numerous peer-reviewed articles, with a total of 223 citations. His work is widely recognized for advancing the understanding of biocatalysts and their industrial applications. Key publications include:

  1. Exploring the Structural Insights of Thermostable Geobacillus Esterases by Computational Characterization (2024), ACS Omega, DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.4c03818
    Cited by 10 articles.
  2. Lipases for Targeted Industrial Applications: A Comprehensive Review (2024), International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132853
    Cited by 12 articles.
  3. Unraveling the Potential of Thermoalkaliphilic Lipases by Molecular Docking (2024), 3 Biotech, DOI: 10.1007/s13205-024-04023-5
    Cited by 8 articles.

Conclusion

Yusuf Sürmeli has demonstrated excellence in his field through a well-rounded academic background, a substantial body of published research, and active participation in academic discourse. His work on biotechnologically significant enzymes, such as xylanases and lipases, addresses important scientific questions and has potential industrial applications. However, to further strengthen his case for the “Best Researcher Award,” Yusuf could aim to broaden the impact and interdisciplinary reach of his research, focusing on practical applications that could influence industry or medicine. Overall, his profile makes him a strong contender for the award, with a few areas for future growth that could further distinguish his academic career.