Expedito Luna – Infectious Diseases Vaccines – Best Researcher Award

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Expedito Luna - Infectious Diseases Vaccines - Best Researcher Award

USP - Brazil

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID

EARLY ACADEMIC ROOTS 🌱

Dr. Expedito J.A. Luna's foundational journey in medicine began with a Medical Degree (M.D.) from the Universidade Federal de Pernambuco in 1981, followed by a Medical Residency in Preventive Medicine at the Universidade de São Paulo. His academic path was further enriched with a Master's in Public Health from Universidade Estadual de Campinas and a Ph.D. in Preventive Medicine/Epidemiology from the University of São Paulo. From the start, his scholarly interest gravitated toward epidemiology and public health, especially in the control and surveillance of communicable diseases. These formative years laid the groundwork for his lifelong dedication to combating health crises in Brazil and beyond. Driven by a commitment to vulnerable populations and the scientific potential of Immunoprevention, he was particularly focused on how evidence-based strategies, like Infectious Diseases Vaccines, could curb epidemics and improve public health outcomes. This academic preparation would later empower him to take on high-level responsibilities in both government and academia, ultimately leading to impactful leadership roles. His passion for rigorous training and empirical analysis equipped him to become a recognized authority in the field. Thus, Dr. Luna’s early academic pursuits served as the launchpad for a distinguished career focused on public health innovation and Infectious Diseases Vaccines.

EARLY ACADEMIC ROOTS 🌱

Dr. Expedito J.A. Luna's foundational journey in medicine began with a Medical Degree (M.D.) from the Universidade Federal de Pernambuco in 1981, followed by a Medical Residency in Preventive Medicine at the Universidade de São Paulo. His academic path was further enriched with a Master's in Public Health from Universidade Estadual de Campinas and a Ph.D. in Preventive Medicine/Epidemiology from the University of São Paulo. From the start, his scholarly interest gravitated toward epidemiology and public health, especially in the control and surveillance of communicable diseases. These formative years laid the groundwork for his lifelong dedication to combating health crises in Brazil and beyond. Driven by a commitment to vulnerable populations and the scientific potential of Immunoprevention, he was particularly focused on how evidence-based strategies, like Infectious Diseases Vaccines, could curb epidemics and improve public health outcomes. This academic preparation would later empower him to take on high-level responsibilities in both government and academia, ultimately leading to impactful leadership roles. His passion for rigorous training and empirical analysis equipped him to become a recognized authority in the field. Thus, Dr. Luna’s early academic pursuits served as the launchpad for a distinguished career focused on public health innovation and Infectious Diseases Vaccines.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 🏥

Dr. Expedito J.A. Luna’s professional trajectory is marked by decades of service in Brazil’s public health system. He began his work at the State of São Paulo Health Secretariat and later served at the Municipal Health Secretariat. His career then advanced to the national level, where he became Director of the Department of Surveillance and Control of Communicable Diseases at the Ministry of Health. In these roles, he was instrumental in implementing large-scale epidemiological programs targeting vaccine-preventable illnesses and neglected tropical diseases. He brought a scientific mindset and operational discipline to the management of epidemics, working to integrate surveillance, diagnostics, and vaccine strategies. His efforts had a measurable impact on national health metrics, especially in reducing the burden of diseases through expanded immunization campaigns. He also served as a scientific advisor to national STI and AIDS programs, showing the breadth of his public health influence. These professional chapters reflect his commitment to translating data into action and policy. Throughout his career, he has emphasized the importance of scientific evidence in health decision-making, especially around Infectious Diseases Vaccines, which he consistently promoted as a cornerstone of disease prevention and control strategies across Brazil’s healthcare infrastructure.

RESEARCH EXCELLENCE & FOCUS 🔬

A cornerstone of Dr. Luna’s legacy is his prolific research in epidemiology, with a particular focus on vaccine effectiveness and disease surveillance. His academic base at the Institute for Tropical Medicine at the University of São Paulo has been a launchpad for numerous groundbreaking studies. From COVID-19 and dengue to influenza and Zika, he has led or participated in over 30 funded research projects. His investigations often center on the real-world effectiveness of Infectious Diseases Vaccines, including CORONAVAC, influenza, rotavirus, yellow fever, and tetravalent dengue vaccines. He has received grants from esteemed institutions such as FAPESP, CNPq, the Ministry of Health, and international organizations like the Mérieux Foundation and Sanofi. Many of his studies use test-negative case-control designs or cohort approaches to measure vaccine performance in diverse populations, including healthcare workers, pregnant women, and indigenous communities. His work bridges field epidemiology with laboratory science, often addressing disease prevalence, transmission dynamics, and immunological response. Dr. Luna’s research not only advances academic knowledge but also informs national immunization policies. With hundreds of peer-reviewed publications, his data-driven insights have reinforced the critical role of Infectious Diseases Vaccines in managing Brazil’s—and the region’s—public health challenges.

POLICY INFLUENCE & LEADERSHIP 📊

Dr. Luna has played a pivotal role in shaping Brazil’s public health policy, particularly in infectious disease control and immunization programs. His tenure as Director of the Department of Surveillance and Control of Communicable Diseases at the Ministry of Health was marked by significant advancements in national disease prevention strategies. He oversaw large-scale surveillance systems and contributed to the development and evaluation of national vaccine policies, ensuring their alignment with scientific findings. His leadership was vital in coordinating efforts to contain outbreaks of dengue, influenza, Zika, and other emerging threats. He also contributed to global discussions on vaccine strategy and safety, as seen in his co-authorship of influential papers on post-licensure vaccine evaluation. His guidance extended to the National Vaccine Coverage Survey and maternal vaccination initiatives, which were instrumental in protecting vulnerable groups. Dr. Luna's ability to bridge academia and policy-making set a gold standard for evidence-based governance. His focus on Infectious Diseases Vaccines positioned him as a trusted voice in both domestic and international forums. Through his leadership, Brazil has seen greater coherence between scientific discovery and public health application, enhancing the reach and effectiveness of vaccination as a tool for disease control.

TEACHING & MENTORSHIP 📚

Beyond his public health and research contributions, Dr. Luna has nurtured the next generation of epidemiologists as a professor at the University of São Paulo’s Institute for Tropical Medicine. Since 2008, he has played an integral role in training medical students, public health professionals, and postgraduate scholars in infectious disease epidemiology. His courses emphasize critical thinking, data interpretation, and the application of epidemiological methods to real-world problems. He brings field experience into the classroom, enriching academic learning with practical insights. Dr. Luna also mentors young researchers through thesis supervision and research collaboration, many of whom now hold influential positions in public health across Brazil. He is renowned for promoting interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to explore links between clinical outcomes, environmental factors, and population health. Central to his pedagogy is the pivotal role of Infectious Diseases Vaccines in disease prevention. His mentorship approach is not only academic but also aspirational, instilling a sense of duty and purpose among his mentees. Through his teaching, Dr. Luna ensures that the values of scientific rigor, public health advocacy, and vaccine equity continue to influence Brazil’s healthcare landscape for years to come.

RECOGNITION & ACCOLADES 🏆

Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Expedito J.A. Luna has earned widespread recognition for his contributions to public health and epidemiology. His efforts have been celebrated not just within Brazil but also in international forums, owing to his collaborative work with organizations like the World Health Organization, Pan American Health Organization, and various global health research foundations. His publications in high-impact journals, ranging from The Lancet to Vaccine and BMJ Open, underscore the scholarly depth and policy relevance of his work. As a principal investigator on critical national studies, including those assessing vaccine coverage, effectiveness, and disease prevalence, Dr. Luna has received prestigious research grants and institutional support across decades. His influence has been instrumental in developing and evaluating policies that continue to shape national immunization strategies. Among his most valuable recognitions is the trust placed in him by Brazil’s Ministry of Health to direct nationwide programs during times of crisis. Across all honors, one theme remains consistent: his unwavering commitment to advancing Infectious Diseases Vaccines as a primary defense against public health threats. Dr. Luna’s accolades are a testament to his lasting impact on science, policy, and population health.

IMPACT & GLOBAL COLLABORATION 🌎

Dr. Luna’s work transcends borders, exemplifying the global nature of public health. Through cross-national research collaborations and policy consulting, he has contributed to a broader understanding of how infectious diseases emerge, spread, and can be controlled through vaccination. His involvement in studies on dengue, influenza, and COVID-19 has provided comparative insights applicable across Latin America and beyond. He has co-authored international papers addressing vaccine strategies, transmission models, and post-licensure evaluations. Dr. Luna’s voice is regularly sought in global forums focused on Infectious Diseases Vaccines, where he shares Brazil’s experiences and learns from global peers. His collaboration with organizations like WHO and PAHO has influenced vaccine rollout strategies and disease surveillance models. He also contributes to international training programs, strengthening capacity in low-resource settings. By advocating for equitable vaccine access and evidence-based interventions, Dr. Luna has helped shape a more unified and proactive global public health response. His legacy extends to influencing vaccine policies not only in Brazil but in other countries that have modeled their strategies after his data-driven approaches. Through this global footprint, he reinforces the indispensable role of Infectious Diseases Vaccines in achieving worldwide health security.

LEGACY & FUTURE VISION 🔮

As Dr. Luna continues his work at the University of São Paulo, his vision for the future remains grounded in scientific advancement and public health equity. He envisions a world where data-driven policies, robust surveillance, and universal access to effective vaccines are the norm rather than the exception. His ongoing projects focus on vaccine effectiveness, particularly for COVID-19 and dengue, reaffirming his belief in the central role of Infectious Diseases Vaccines in combating evolving health threats. He remains deeply involved in guiding young scientists and contributing to research that influences national immunization programs. Looking ahead, he advocates for stronger integration of epidemiological data with digital health tools to improve outbreak detection and response. His legacy lies not only in the programs he helped build or the research he led but also in the public health mindset he helped instill in Brazil and beyond. By continuing to engage with policy-makers, research bodies, and students, Dr. Luna ensures that the next generation will carry forward the torch of scientific integrity and vaccine-driven disease control. His work serves as a blueprint for future epidemiologists seeking to leverage Infectious Diseases Vaccines for a healthier, more resilient world.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION 

  • Title: A spatial case-control study on symptomatic and inapparent primary dengue infections in an endemic city in Brazil
    Authors: Gerusa Figueiredo, Francisco Chiaravalloti, Sérgio Campos, Alessandra Cristina Guedes Pellini, Alvina Clara Felix, Expedito Luna
    Journal: Revista do Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Detection of Internal Transcribed Spacer 1 and hsp70 Genetic Markers Using Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphisms and Sequencing in Identification of Leishmania Species Causing Tegumentary Leishmaniasis in Brazil
    Authors: J.A. Delprete, L.V. de Almeida, A.M. Barros, R.D.C. Soler, A.A. Bittencourt, E.J. de Albuquerque Luna, J.A.L. Lindoso, L.M.A. Braz
    Journal: American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Dynamics of communication on measles vaccination on digital platforms in the Brazilian context: challenges and perspectives
    Authors: Maria da Penha Soares Silva, Vera Lúcia Gattás, Expedito José de Albuquerque Luna
    Journal: Revista do Instituto de Medicina Tropical de São Paulo
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Low vaccine coverage and varicella outbreaks in Brazil − 2019–2022
    Authors: D.M. Fujita, L.H. da Silva Nali, R.R. da Costa, H.F. de Andrade Júnior, E.J. de Albuquerque Luna
    Journal: Vaccine
    Year: 2024

 

  • Title: Phylogenetics, Epidemiology and Temporal Patterns of Dengue Virus in Araraquara, São Paulo State
    Authors: C.S. de Souza, G.S. Caleiro, I.M. Claro, J.G. de Jesus, T.M. Coletti, C.A.M. da Silva, Â.A. Costa, M. Inenami, A.C. Ribeiro, A.C. Felix et al.
    Journal: Viruses
    Year: 2024

Moncef Chouaibi – Treatment for Infectious Diseases – Best Academic Researcher Award

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Moncef Chouaibi - Treatment for Infectious Diseases - Best Academic Researcher Award 

Higher School of Food Industries of Tunis - Tunisia

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID

🎓 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Professor Moncef Chouaïbi's academic journey reflects a strong foundation in mathematical sciences and food engineering. He began with a Bachelor of Mathematics from 1996 to 2000, which laid the groundwork for his analytical approach in later scientific explorations. He pursued an engineering diploma, master’s, and ultimately a PhD in Food Industries between 2000 and 2013 from the University of Carthage and the University of Salerno. His doctoral studies focused on food engineering and preservation technologies, critical to public health, especially in regions facing foodborne infections. During these formative years, he developed a keen interest in the optimization of extraction processes, thermal food treatment, and encapsulation of bioactive compounds—techniques that today underpin innovations in antimicrobial food systems. His early academic path emphasized both theoretical mastery and applied research, equipping him with the scientific literacy and lab-based expertise to address complex problems in food safety and infectious disease management. His studies incorporated methodologies that enhance food functionality while limiting pathogen transmission—a core concern in infectious disease control. This period was not just a phase of learning but also a springboard for his later contributions to microbiologically safe and nutritionally enhanced food products.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS IN FOOD SCIENCE

Since the early stages of his career, Professor Chouaïbi has devoted himself to the advancement of food engineering with a strong focus on safety, stability, and nutrition. Starting as a Senior Research Fellow in Tunis and later in Salerno, Italy, he quickly transitioned into academic leadership as an Assistant Professor and eventually as a full Professor at the Higher School of Food Industries of Tunis. His teaching and mentoring have supported a new generation of scientists, but it is his research that sets him apart. He has actively explored the use of natural preservatives, bioactive components, and rheological food properties to improve food quality and safety. This work is especially relevant in developing countries where infectious diseases are often exacerbated by compromised food systems. By modeling heat and mass transfer, Professor Chouaïbi has helped design preservation techniques that reduce microbial load in food, directly contributing to infectious disease prevention. He has also collaborated with biotechnology and food chemistry experts to create functional foods that boost immune responses. His hands-on approach and strategic focus on real-world applications of food science make his professional journey a beacon for interdisciplinary innovation in nutrition and public health.

🧬 RESEARCH ON FUNCTIONAL FOODS & BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS

Professor Moncef Chouaïbi has established himself as a pioneering researcher in the field of functional foods and bioactive compound extraction. His studies on antioxidant-rich oils, including those derived from pumpkin, celery, and Zizyphus lotus, demonstrate his commitment to exploring nature-derived solutions to public health challenges. Many of these compounds, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, have demonstrated antimicrobial and antiviral properties, making them potential adjuncts in infectious disease treatment. His innovative work on encapsulation technology—particularly nanoemulsions and double emulsions—has enabled targeted delivery of these compounds, enhancing their stability and efficacy. These advances have broad implications in the management of bacterial and viral foodborne illnesses, especially in vulnerable populations. His research is widely published in high-impact journals, evidencing both depth and breadth. Through projects like yogurt fortified with inulin or camel milk enhanced with probiotics, he combines scientific rigor with nutritional foresight. His exploration of shelf-life enhancement and preservation methods directly addresses contamination and disease spread in perishable goods. Such applications play a crucial role in food systems resilience against pathogens, including those that cause enteric infections. His work positions food not only as sustenance but as a strategic platform for disease intervention.

🧫 ADVANCES IN INFECTIOUS DISEASE TREATMENT VIA FOOD SCIENCE

Professor Chouaïbi's contributions have extended beyond traditional food science into the realm of infectious disease treatment and prevention. His application of bioactive-rich emulsions and coatings—such as thyme essential oil encapsulation and almond gum films—offers a sustainable, chemical-free alternative to conventional disinfectants. These formulations are especially effective against microbial spoilage and contamination, which are common vectors for infectious disease transmission through food. His collaborations have resulted in yogurt enriched with antimicrobial agents and functional cheeses with targeted probiotic properties, both of which support gastrointestinal health and immunological defense. His work on modeling urease activity reduction in soybean meals and optimizing drying processes has clinical relevance in reducing pathogen viability. Furthermore, his patents on emulsifiers and encapsulation systems are setting new standards in controlled delivery of anti-pathogenic agents. As diseases evolve and antibiotic resistance grows, the integration of food engineering in the fight against infections becomes increasingly vital. Through his food-based biotechnological innovations, Professor Chouaïbi is contributing practical tools that align nutrition with infection control, reinforcing the interdisciplinary bridge between food technology and public health.

📚 EDITORIAL AND SCHOLARLY IMPACT

Beyond research and teaching, Professor Chouaïbi holds influential editorial roles in several international journals including Discover Food, Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization, and Frontiers in Materials. These positions affirm his global recognition as an authority in food engineering. His role as guest editor and board member enables him to shape emerging discourses around sustainable food systems, food safety, and biofunctional ingredients. He has authored multiple books and book chapters that explore food preservation technologies, phytochemicals, and encapsulation techniques—many of which serve as reference texts in food and nutrition science. His scholarly contributions provide critical frameworks for understanding how food technology can mitigate microbial risks. Through peer review and journal leadership, he fosters innovation, ensures scientific rigor, and promotes cross-border collaborations. This academic leadership enhances not just his personal standing but also the integrity and visibility of food science research in developing infectious disease interventions. By mentoring young scientists and influencing research directions globally, Professor Chouaïbi multiplies his impact, ensuring the continuity and evolution of science-based solutions to pressing health threats.

🏆 HONORS, PATENTS & INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS

Professor Moncef Chouaïbi’s excellence has been acknowledged through various honors, patents, and extensive international engagements. He is a patent holder for technologies including novel emulsifiers for drug delivery and food coating systems with bioactive properties, which support food safety and infectious disease mitigation. These innovations provide scalable solutions for controlling contamination in food supply chains. His scientific influence spans across borders with collaborative research in Italy, Japan, and across North Africa. Participation in international conferences—from the Euro-Global Conference on Food Science to Japan-Tunisia symposia—underscores his reputation as a global expert. His patented work on the use of natural polymers and biopolymers in preserving food integrity has found use in both academic and industrial settings. These achievements not only validate his research but also position his methodologies as models for innovation in developing antimicrobial systems from food matrices. His multidisciplinary patents have crossover value in pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and environmental safety. These accolades represent the fusion of his engineering ingenuity with a vision for healthier communities.

🌍 LEGACY & FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS TO GLOBAL HEALTH

Looking ahead, Professor Chouaïbi is poised to further integrate food engineering with global health initiatives. His future research aims to refine nanoencapsulation methods to deliver targeted nutritional therapies and anti-infective agents through everyday food products. His commitment to addressing malnutrition, microbial contamination, and diet-related diseases aligns with global health goals and sustainable development frameworks. By developing bioactive-rich ingredients from agricultural waste, he also promotes circular economy principles and food system sustainability. His work resonates deeply in low- and middle-income countries, where accessible, nutrition-based interventions are critical in combating infectious disease burdens. As a mentor and innovator, his legacy will extend through the scientists he inspires, the institutions he shapes, and the communities that benefit from his science. With over 50 peer-reviewed articles and involvement in cutting-edge international projects, Professor Chouaïbi's contribution to the intersection of food science and infectious disease control is both transformative and enduring. His vision positions food not just as nourishment, but as a strategic frontier in the fight against infectious diseases worldwide.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

  • Title: Co-encapsulation of catechin and L-lysine in water-in-oil-in-water (W1/O/W2) double emulsion using membrane emulsification process: application in carrot based infant-purée
    Authors: Eya Soussi, Nayrouz Yahyaoui, Moncef Chouaibi, Salem Hamdi
    Journal: Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Comparative study of Acacia tortilis subsp. raddiana gum of Tunisian origin and commercial Acacia senegal gum
    Authors: Khouloud Rigane, Moncef Chouaibi, Romdhane Karoui
    Journal: Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization
    Year: 2025

 

  • Title: Arbutus unedo fruit syrup as a fortifying agent: effect on physicochemical, microbiological, rheological, sensory and antioxidant properties of yoghurt
    Authors: I. Essaidi, M. Chouaibi, H. Haj Koubaier, S. Bouacida, A. Snoussi, Y. Abassi, N. Bouzouita
    Journal: Journal of Food Science and Technology
    Year: 2023

 

  • Title: Bioactive Phytochemicals from Pumpkin Seed Oil Processing By-products
    Authors: L. Rezig, K. Gharsallah, M. Chouaibi
    Journal: Reference Series in Phytochemistry (Book Chapter)
    Year: 2023

 

  • Title: Influence of Conservation Agriculture on Durum Wheat Grain, Dough Texture Profile and Pasta Quality in a Mediterranean Region
    Authors: I. Kerbouai, D. Sfayhi, K. Sassi, H.C. M’hamed, H. Jenfaoui, J. Riahi, S. Arfaoui, M. Chouaibi, Ben-... (author name appears truncated)
    Journal: Agriculture (Switzerland)
    Year: 2023

Yang Cheng – Malaria – Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Infectious

Yang Cheng - Malaria - Best Researcher Award

Institute for Prevention and Control of Tropical Diseases and Chronic Diseases, Hainan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention - China

AUTHOR PROFILE 

SCOPUS

EARLY ACADEMIC ROOTS 🎓

Dr. Yang Cheng’s academic journey began with a profound interest in medicine and parasitology. Born in May 1986, he pursued his Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Medicine from Bengbu Medical College, China, graduating in 2009. Motivated by the complex biology of parasites and their interactions with human hosts, he pursued a Ph.D. in Human Parasitology at Kangwon National University, South Korea, and obtained his doctorate in 2014. His time abroad broadened his exposure to international research perspectives, laying the groundwork for a robust academic career. Post-Ph.D., Dr. Cheng further honed his expertise through a postdoctoral research position at the prestigious NIH-NIAID (USA) from 2014 to 2016. This phase was instrumental in sharpening his scientific acumen, allowing him to work with globally respected researchers in immunology and infectious diseases. His diverse academic background—spanning Asia and the United States—prepared him to tackle global parasitic diseases with a cross-disciplinary approach. With each academic milestone, Dr. Cheng cultivated a deepening focus on malaria infection and host immune response, eventually positioning himself as a key thought leader in tropical disease research.

PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY & LEADERSHIP 🧑‍🔬

Dr. Cheng’s professional trajectory is distinguished by leadership roles and impactful research. In 2016, he became an Associate Professor at Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China, where he also assumed the role of Chief Leader of the Pathogenic Infection and Immunity Laboratory. His leadership extends to Hainan, where he directs the Institute for Prevention and Control of Tropical Diseases and Chronic Diseases at the Hainan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention. His dual appointments reflect his commitment to both academic advancement and public health application. Beyond titles, Dr. Cheng has led numerous high-profile research initiatives. He currently heads multiple funded projects, including grants from the Natural Science Foundation of China, Jiangsu Province, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and Central Universities' Fundamental Research Funds. His ability to manage interdisciplinary research, mentor junior scientists, and lead disease prevention programs solidifies his reputation as a leader in the field. Balancing lab discovery with field implementation, Dr. Cheng bridges research with policy and practice, especially in endemic regions.

RESEARCH EXCELLENCE IN MALARIA & IMMUNOLOGY 🧬

At the heart of Dr. Cheng’s career lies his passion for understanding malaria pathogenesis and immune response. His work focuses on four interconnected areas: the invasion mechanisms of Plasmodium, the host’s immune response and immune evasion, screening of malaria vaccine candidates, and public prevention of parasitic diseases. Through a combination of molecular biology, immunology, and epidemiology, he has advanced knowledge in how Plasmodium interacts with host cells and evades immune detection. His research has resulted in over 20 SCI-indexed publications as first or corresponding author, underscoring both volume and scientific rigor. Notably, his recent work has revealed important roles for proteins such as PvMSP1P-19, PvTRAg23, and GAMA in malaria pathogenesis and immune modulation. By identifying targets for potential vaccines and therapeutics, Dr. Cheng's contributions support global efforts to eradicate malaria. His innovative experiments, often involving collaborative research teams, have been well-recognized in journals such as The Journal of Biological Chemistry, Frontiers in Immunology, and Infection and Immunity. Dr. Cheng's research doesn’t just decode molecular interactions—it creates practical pathways for disease control strategies.

GLOBAL COLLABORATIONS & SCIENTIFIC IMPACT 🌏

Dr. Cheng has actively collaborated across borders, enhancing the global footprint of his research. His postdoctoral tenure at the NIH-NIAID fostered early international experience, but his collaborations have since extended through participation in multi-national conferences, international grants, and co-authored studies. Notably, his research supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation highlights global trust in his work’s applicability to malaria control. Additionally, his papers often include international co-authors from diverse regions such as Africa, Korea, and Southeast Asia, indicating the geographic relevance and appeal of his findings. His participation in One Health discussions and COVID-19 response analysis showcases his versatility and responsiveness to emerging global threats. Dr. Cheng’s research on the genetic diversity and immunogenicity of Plasmodium species imported from Africa to China speaks to his role in transcontinental disease tracking. These partnerships have enabled knowledge transfer and capacity building in endemic regions, strengthening public health infrastructures. By working with global teams, Dr. Cheng has become a conduit for scientific exchange, policy dialogue, and technological innovation in tropical medicine.

AWARDS AND DISTINCTIONS 🏅

Recognition of Dr. Cheng’s outstanding research and leadership is reflected in the accolades he has received. In 2014, he was honored with the PhD of Excellence by Kangwon National University, a testament to his exceptional doctoral work. Six years later, in 2020, he was named Honor Young Scientist Scholar at Jiangnan University, affirming his continued contribution to academic research and student mentorship. He also received the Science and Technology Award from the China General Chamber of Commerce the same year, which acknowledged his applied scientific efforts and innovation in health-related research. These awards highlight his dual strengths: theoretical rigor and practical impact. Dr. Cheng’s ability to transform complex research into public health strategies, particularly in parasitic disease control, has been critical in earning these distinctions. His awards not only validate his contributions but also set a benchmark for emerging researchers under his mentorship. As a role model and thought leader, he has cultivated a research environment focused on excellence, integrity, and social relevance.

SCIENTIFIC CONTRIBUTIONS & PUBLICATIONS 📚

Dr. Cheng’s publication record is both prolific and impactful, with over 20 SCI-indexed articles that span molecular parasitology, immunology, and public health. His 2024 study in The Journal of Biological Chemistry revealed how PvMSP1P-19 binds with membrane proteins band3 and CD71, advancing our understanding of Plasmodium vivax reticulocyte invasion. In another 2024 paper in Infection and Immunity, he examined the interaction between PySRA and macrophage receptors, shedding light on how malaria parasites manipulate host immune responses. His interdisciplinary approach also led to studies on PvTRAg23’s effect on spleen fibroblasts, COVID-19 epidemiology, and immune signaling pathways like cGAS-STING. His work demonstrates a continuous thread of innovation—from bench research to field-level application. Each publication not only contributes to scientific discourse but also serves as a building block for vaccine development, diagnostic tool refinement, and epidemiological forecasting. His research frequently bridges basic science and translational outcomes, with far-reaching implications for disease surveillance and health policy.

LEGACY AND FUTURE ASPIRATIONS 🔮

Dr. Cheng stands at the forefront of infectious disease research with a legacy defined by innovation, leadership, and global vision. His future trajectory promises continued advancement in malaria vaccine development, immune evasion mechanisms, and public health interventions. As Director of a key disease control institute and a research lab leader, he is well-positioned to influence both academic inquiry and practical policy. He envisions building a multidisciplinary center for tropical diseases, incorporating genomics, immunology, and big data analytics to combat emerging parasitic threats. Moreover, he remains committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists, creating a ripple effect of knowledge and skill development across borders. With growing international collaborations, sustained publication momentum, and a strong foundation in both theory and practice, Dr. Cheng’s legacy is still in the making—one that aligns with global health goals and scientific excellence.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

  • Title: Proteomic profiling of spleen in rat infected with Clonorchis sinensis using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry analysis
    Authors: S. Han, Su; J. Wan, Jie; X. Zhang, Xiaoli; J. Wu, Jianlin; R. Chen, Rui
    Journal: Acta Tropica
  • Title: MicroRNAs in opisthorchiids and their definitive hosts: Current Status and Perspectives
    Authors: X. Li, Xiang; J. Ding, Jian; X. Zhang, Xiaoli; J. Cao, Jianping; S. Han, Su
    Journal: [Journal not specified] (Full text link is disabled, and journal name not shown)
  • Title: Plasmodium vivax tryptophan-rich antigen reduces type I collagen secretion via the NF-κBp65 pathway in splenic fibroblasts
    Authors: W. Kong, Weizhong; H. Zhang, Hangye; Y. Sun, Yifan; S. Han, Su; Y. Cheng, Yang
    Journal: Parasites and Vectors
  • Title: ASIC1 promotes migration and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma via the PRKACA/AP-1 signaling pathway
    Authors: Y. Liu, Youyi; B. Wang, Boshi; Y. Cheng, Yang; Y. He, Youzhao; C. Jin, Cheng
    Journal: Carcinogenesis
  • Title: The Plasmodium vivax MSP1P-19 is involved in binding of reticulocytes through interactions with the membrane proteins band3 and CD71
    Authors: S. Zuo, Shenghuan; J. Lu, Jiachen; Y. Sun, Yifan; E. Han, Eun-Taek; Y. Cheng, Yang
    Journal: Journal of Biological Chemistry