Prof. Dr. Xiaofeng Dai | Authentic Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Xi’an Jiaotong University Medical College First Affiliated Hospital: The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, China

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dai Xiaofeng’s academic journey exemplifies a commitment to interdisciplinary research and innovation. His early studies took him to Tampere University of Technology, Finland, where he pursued a master’s degree in bioinformatics, and the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, where he earned a master’s degree in molecular biology. These foundational studies provided him with a solid background in computational and biological sciences, setting the stage for his later achievements. He further advanced his expertise by obtaining a Ph.D. in computational systems biology from Tampere University of Technology, focusing on genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and molecular mechanisms. Not content with a singular academic trajectory, he pursued a second Ph.D. in econometrics from Aalto University, Finland, where he applied computational biological methods to economic modeling. His doctoral education in genetics at the University of Helsinki added yet another layer to his multidisciplinary expertise.

Professional Endeavors and Research Focus 🔬

Following his extensive academic training, Dai Xiaofeng embarked on a research career that took him to the Finnish Center for Molecular Medicine and Helsinki Central Hospital, where he conducted postdoctoral research in GWAS and anti-cancer molecular mechanisms. These experiences allowed him to refine his expertise in genetic research and translational medicine. Upon his return to China, he established a pioneering research group at Xi’an Jiaotong University’s First Affiliated Hospital, focusing on the medical applications of Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma (CAP). His work in this domain has led to significant advancements in precision and translational medicine. He has investigated the multimodal anti-cancer molecular mechanisms of CAP and proposed a CAP redox balance model. His research also extends to the development of multi-dimensional anti-cancer tools, including the establishment of the first CAP database both domestically and internationally. He has played a crucial role in developing high-throughput, minimally invasive, and portable CAP medical devices, ensuring that these technologies can be effectively translated from research to real-world medical applications. His efforts to overcome technological barriers in CAP active preservation have further cemented his reputation as a leader in the field.

Contributions and Publications 📚

Dai Xiaofeng’s contributions to scientific literature are substantial. He has authored 104 SCI-indexed papers as the first and/or corresponding author, with his work appearing in top-tier journals such as Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy, Redox Biology, Progress in Polymer Science, Biotechnology Advances, Advanced Science, Free Radical Biology and Medicine, Computational Biology and Medicine, Trends in Biotechnology, and Trends in Genetics. His research, spanning over 110 internationally published articles, has amassed a total impact factor of 746, highlighting the significance of his findings in both medical and engineering disciplines.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dai Xiaofeng’s innovative research has earned him numerous accolades. His groundbreaking work in CAP translational medicine has been recognized through prestigious research grants and awards, both in China and internationally. His expertise has led to invitations to speak at global conferences on plasma medicine, molecular biology, and biomedical engineering. In addition to his academic honors, his collaborations with leading medical institutions and engineering firms have further reinforced the importance of his research. His contributions to national healthcare policies, particularly through his work on CAP-based therapeutic applications, demonstrate his influence beyond academia.

Impact and Influence 🌟

Dai Xiaofeng’s interdisciplinary research has had a profound impact on multiple fields. His work in CAP-based cancer treatment has introduced non-invasive therapeutic modalities, offering new hope to patients. His contributions to medical device innovation have led to the development of cutting-edge plasma-based tools, which are poised to revolutionize the treatment landscape. His emphasis on translational medicine ensures that groundbreaking research is not confined to laboratories but reaches the clinical setting, where it can benefit real patients. Beyond his own research, he has dedicated himself to mentoring young scientists, fostering a new generation of researchers capable of bridging multiple scientific disciplines.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌐

Dai Xiaofeng’s legacy is one of innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of scientific advancement. Looking ahead, he aims to expand CAP-based therapeutics into broader clinical applications, ensuring that these technologies become a staple in modern medical treatment. His future work will focus on the integration of artificial intelligence into CAP devices, optimizing their therapeutic potential. Strengthening collaborations between academia, industry, and healthcare providers remains a priority, as does advocating for policy changes that support the integration of CAP technology into mainstream medical practice. Through his pioneering research, Dai Xiaofeng continues to shape the future of biomedical science, leaving an indelible mark on the fields of medicine, engineering, and computational biology.

📝Notable Publications

Spermidine antagonizes the anti-cancer effect of cold atmospheric plasma and induces transit G0/G1 cell cycle arrest of triple negative breast cancers
Authors: L. Shen, X. Lv, Y. Li, X. Dai
Journal: Free Radical Biology and Medicine
Year: 2025
Cold atmospheric plasma potentiates ferroptosis via EGFR(Y1068)-mediated dual axes on GPX4 among triple negative breast cancer cells
Authors: X. Dai, Z. Xu, X. Lv, M. Xi, T. Li
Journal: International Journal of Biological Sciences
Year: 2025
Cold atmospheric plasma restores skewed macrophage polarization in triple negative breast cancers via enhancing KAT6A acetylation
Authors: K. Zhu, Q. Lv, X. Lu, Y. Wang, X. Dai
Journal: Free Radical Biology and Medicine
Year: 2025
Metal-organic frameworks: potential synergies with cold atmospheric plasmas for cancer control
Authors: X. Dai, Y. Yang
Journal: Journal of Materials Chemistry B
Year: 2024
Magnetic nanoparticles and possible synergies with cold atmospheric plasma for cancer treatment
Authors: X. Dai, Y. Dai, Y. Zheng, Y. Lv
Journal: RSC Advances
Year: 2024

Early Academic Pursuits

Yongzhi Wang's academic journey reflects a deep-rooted passion for computer science and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. Beginning with a Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science from Xidian University, China, he laid the groundwork for a stellar academic career. His Master's degree, also from Xidian University, further honed his expertise, setting the stage for his doctoral studies at Florida International University (FIU) in the United States.

Professional Endeavors

Yongzhi Wang's professional journey is marked by significant roles in academia and industry. His tenure as a Research Assistant and Teaching Assistant at FIU, coupled with his role as a Staff Software Engineer at IBM in China, provided him with a comprehensive understanding of both theoretical concepts and practical applications in computer science. Transitioning into academia, he served as an Assistant Professor at Xidian University in China before joining Park University in the United States, where he ascended to the position of Associate Professor.

Contributions and Research Focus

Yongzhi Wang's contributions to the field of computer science are multifaceted, spanning research, teaching, and program development. His research focus revolves around cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data integrity, as evidenced by his numerous publications in prestigious journals and conferences. His expertise in constructing secure computing frameworks in cloud environments has garnered recognition, including awards such as the Trending Article in IEEE Transactions on Computers and the Best Paper Award at the International Conference on Networking and Network Applications.

Accolades and Recognition

Yongzhi Wang's contributions have been widely recognized, with accolades such as the Distinguished Faculty Scholar Award at Park University and the Dissertation Year Fellowship at FIU. His media coverage and presence in prestigious conferences reflect the impact of his research on the broader academic and industry communities.

Impact and Influence on Innovative Leadership

Yongzhi Wang's work has had a tangible impact on the field of cybersecurity and cloud computing, influencing best practices and frameworks for ensuring data integrity and security in distributed computing environments. His research grants and collaborations with institutions both in the US and China underscore his global influence and collaborative spirit in advancing computer science.

Yongzhi's leadership extends beyond academia into industry collaborations and grant initiatives, showcasing his strategic vision and proactive approach to driving change and making a meaningful impact. His leadership style fosters a culture of curiosity, experimentation, and continuous learning, empowering individuals and teams to explore new avenues and contribute meaningfully to the ever-evolving landscape of computer science and technology. In essence, Yongzhi Wang's innovative leadership is not just about achieving success in the present but laying the groundwork for a future where innovation is at the forefront of progress and transformation.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Yongzhi Wang's legacy lies in his commitment to excellence in research, education, and innovation. His ongoing contributions to academia through teaching advanced courses and developing academic programs in cybersecurity pave the way for future generations of computer scientists. His vision for a secure and robust computing environment continues to drive his research endeavors, promising further breakthroughs and advancements in the field.

Innovative leadership is not just about implementing new ideas but fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Yongzhi Wang exemplifies innovative leadership through his pioneering research in cybersecurity and cloud computing. His ability to conceptualize and develop secure computing frameworks in cloud environments has not only pushed the boundaries of knowledge but also translated into tangible solutions that address real-world challenges. As an educator, Yongzhi's innovative leadership shines through his development of academic programs in cybersecurity and his dynamic teaching approach, which inspires students to think critically and explore cutting-edge technologies.