Dr. Youmin Zhu | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Shanghai AZ Science and Technology Co., Ltd.

Author Profile

🌱 Early Academic Pursuits

From the very beginning of his academic journey, Dr. Youmin Zhu demonstrated an exceptional passion for biological sciences. His intellectual curiosity led him to pursue a Ph.D. in biological sciences, where he laid a solid foundation in molecular biology, biotechnology, and pharmacology. During his doctoral years, he cultivated a deep interest in cutting-edge therapeutic strategies, particularly focusing on emerging protein degradation technologies and the role of bioactive peptides. His academic rigor and scientific curiosity propelled him to explore innovative modalities that bridged traditional research with real-world applications in drug and skincare development. These formative experiences not only enriched his technical skills but also instilled a vision to contribute meaningfully to both science and society.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Now serving as the R&D President and Chief Scientist at Shanghai AZ Science and Technology Co., Ltd., Dr. Zhu has emerged as a visionary leader in the field of biotechnology. Under his guidance, the organization has completed over 20 major R&D projects, encompassing the development of peptide PROTACs-based skincare ingredients, enzymes, and probiotics. These endeavors reflect not only his scientific expertise but also his ability to translate theoretical concepts into commercial and therapeutic innovations.

Dr. Zhu’s strategic direction in the biotechnology sector has turned his company into a powerhouse of innovation, where the fusion of peptide-based therapeutics and skincare science is leading to transformative solutions. His work has bridged academic excellence with industrial application, enabling breakthroughs in precision medicine and advanced cosmeceuticals.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Zhu’s research focus lies at the intersection of molecular biology, pharmacological innovation, and cosmetic science, with a central emphasis on peptide PROTACs (Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras). His pioneering efforts in this area have highlighted the multi-targeting potential of peptides, their biodegradability, low toxicity, and modular design, all of which present significant advantages over conventional small molecules and antibodies.

One of his most notable contributions is the publication of the article titled “The Peptide PROTAC Modality: A New Strategy for Drug Discovery” in MedComm (2025), an SCI-indexed journal with an impressive impact factor of 10.7. This work has been widely recognized in the scientific community and is already making waves in discussions around next-generation therapeutic strategies. The article has been cited across multiple domains, further demonstrating its relevance and value in ongoing pharmaceutical research.

With a total of over 10 scientific publications, Dr. Zhu has consistently contributed to scholarly literature and advanced dialogue in biotherapeutics. In addition, he holds 18 authorized patents in China, such as Patent No. CN202410445356.X, further underscoring his commitment to translating innovation into intellectual property and practical applications.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Zhu’s groundbreaking work has not gone unnoticed. His scientific and entrepreneurial achievements have earned him recognition within academic, industrial, and international circles. In addition to being a contributing scientist to impactful research, he has also been actively involved in collaborative projects with prestigious institutions including Fudan University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and Zhejiang University.

He is also an esteemed member of professional networks such as the Chinese Overseas Alliance and the Chinese Doctoral Alliance, where he continues to contribute to thought leadership and global knowledge exchange.

Furthermore, his work was recently highlighted in a widely circulated WeChat feature and an official PDF document of professional certification, showcasing his influence in both academic and industrial spheres.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Zhu’s influence extends beyond scientific circles. His work on peptide PROTACs is helping redefine how we understand and treat complex diseases. By leveraging the natural degradation mechanisms of the body through targeted proteolysis, his innovations are creating new avenues for the treatment of conditions previously considered untreatable.

Equally impressive is his impact on precision skincare, where bioengineered peptide-based compounds are providing customized, low-toxicity solutions for skin health. This cross-disciplinary impact, from health to beauty, positions Dr. Zhu as a transformative figure in the biotech and wellness industries.

His articles, particularly those involving collaborative authorship with Yu Dai and Yuncai Tian, have sparked global interest, and the citation of his MedComm article continues to grow. These ripple effects reflect the profound scientific and commercial value of his work.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

As Dr. Zhu continues to push boundaries, the future of peptide-based therapeutics and cosmeceuticals looks increasingly promising. He is paving the way for a new era of precision medicine, where treatments are not only more effective but also safer and more sustainable.

Looking ahead, Dr. Zhu plans to scale his innovations globally and expand his company’s reach into international markets, bringing Chinese biotechnology to the global stage. His future goals include mentoring young scientists, fostering new academic-industry partnerships, and developing a global research ecosystem centered on peptide technologies.

Through his unwavering dedication and strategic foresight, Dr. Youmin Zhu is building a legacy that will inspire a generation of researchers and innovators. His contributions are not only advancing science but also shaping the future of healthcare and skincare for the better. 🌐

The Peptide PROTAC Modality: A New Strategy for Drug Discovery

Authors: Youmin Zhu, Yu Dai, Yuncai Tian
Journal: MedComm
Year: 2025

New Nobel Prize MicroRNA Technology Is Opening up a New Era of Precision Skincare

Authors: Youmin Zhu, Yu Dai, Xiaojing Wang, Shengjie Zhu, Yuncai Tian, Yong Tian
Journal: Advanced Journal of Nursing
Year: 2025

New peptide PROTAC is triggering a revolution in precise targeted skincare

Authors: Youmin Zhu, Yu Dai, Yuncai Tian, Yong Tian
Journal: Preprint (platform not specified)
Year: 2024

Advances in CRISPR/Cas9

Authors: Youmin Zhu, Syed Hassan
Journal: BioMed Research International
Year: 2022

Comparative Transcriptomics Reveals Jasmonic Acid-Associated Metabolism Related to Cotton Fiber Initiation

Authors: Liman Wang, Youmin Zhu, Wenjing Hu, Xueying Zhang, Caiping Cai, Wangzhen Guo
Journal: PLOS ONE
Year: 2015

Dr. Zhigang Liu | Scientific Research | Best Researcher Award

Zhejiang University, China

Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Zhigang Liu’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in preventive medicine at Huazhong University of Science and Technology. His undergraduate studies from 2006 to 2011 not only equipped him with an understanding of public health and disease prevention but also sparked his interest in the biochemical mechanisms underlying diseases. He then pursued a Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry at the Chinese Academy of Sciences, one of China’s most prestigious research institutions. From 2011 to 2016, his doctoral work focused on advanced analytical techniques that laid the groundwork for his later specialization in metabolomics and systems medicine. His transition from preventive medicine to analytical chemistry marked a significant step in his interdisciplinary approach to medical research.

Professional Endeavors and Global Research Engagement 🌏

Following his Ph.D., Zhigang Liu embarked on a research career that took him beyond China, allowing him to gain international experience and collaborate with leading experts in the field. In 2016, he joined Imperial College London as a Research Associate in the Department of Surgery and Cancer, where he investigated the molecular and metabolic underpinnings of disease. His work at Imperial College evolved over time, and in 2020, he transitioned to the Department of Metabolism, Digestion, and Reproduction, continuing his exploration into bioinformatics, metabolomics, and gut microbiota interactions.

In 2024, he took on a prestigious role as a Professor in Systems Medicine at Zhejiang University, marking his return to China to contribute to cutting-edge research and education. At the same time, he retained strong international ties, securing a Visiting Professorship at Imperial College London. These dual appointments highlight his role as a bridge between Chinese and global research communities, facilitating collaborative efforts in medical science.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔍🧬

Zhigang Liu’s research revolves around the intricate relationship between gut microbiota, metabolism, and inflammatory diseases. His work integrates metabolomics, transcriptomics, and bioinformatics to uncover novel insights into diseases such as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and immune-related colitis. He has spearheaded multiple projects examining the role of gut microbiota and metabolites in immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced colitis, a critical concern in cancer immunotherapy. His ability to combine computational analysis with experimental studies has positioned him at the forefront of precision medicine.

Through his leadership in projects funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC) and other institutions, he continues to drive impactful research that has the potential to reshape therapeutic strategies for inflammatory and metabolic disorders. His work not only advances scientific understanding but also paves the way for novel clinical applications.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆✨

Zhigang Liu’s research excellence has been recognized through prestigious appointments and competitive funding grants. His ability to secure high-impact research projects, both in China and internationally, speaks to his reputation as a leading scientist in systems medicine. His collaborations with Imperial College London and Zhejiang University further affirm his influence in the global scientific community.

Beyond funding and institutional recognition, his contributions are reflected in high-impact publications, conference presentations, and mentorship of young researchers. His interdisciplinary expertise has made him a sought-after collaborator in the fields of metabolomics and microbiota research.

Impact and Influence on the Scientific Community 🌱🔗

Zhigang Liu’s research has broad implications for medical science and public health. By deepening our understanding of gut microbiota and its role in disease, his work contributes to the development of targeted therapies that could transform the treatment of inflammatory and metabolic disorders. His investigations into immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced colitis are particularly significant in the field of cancer treatment, addressing critical side effects of immunotherapy.

Moreover, his role as a professor allows him to shape the next generation of scientists. His mentorship and teaching at Zhejiang University help cultivate future experts in bioinformatics, metabolomics, and systems medicine, ensuring that his legacy extends beyond his own research.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮🚀

As a scientist dedicated to uncovering the molecular mechanisms behind disease, Zhigang Liu’s impact is only set to grow. His ongoing projects promise to yield new insights into the interactions between gut microbiota, immune response, and metabolism. With continued international collaborations and interdisciplinary research, he is poised to make further breakthroughs in personalized medicine and disease prevention.

His vision extends beyond academia—his work has the potential to translate into clinical applications that improve patient outcomes worldwide. By bridging research and medical practice, Zhigang Liu continues to shape the future of systems medicine, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of gut microbiota research.

📝Notable Publications

Inhibiting growth of Clostridioides difficile by restoring valerate, produced by the intestinal microbiota

Author: JAK McDonald, BH Mullish, A Pechlivanis, Z Liu, J Brignardello, D Kao, …
Journal: Gastroenterology
Year: 2018

COVID-19 vaccine-induced antibody responses in immunosuppressed patients with inflammatory bowel disease (VIP): a multicentre, prospective, case-control study

Author: JL Alexander, NA Kennedy, H Ibraheim, S Anandabaskaran, A Saifuddin, …
Journal: The Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Year: 2022

Deciphering molecular mechanism of silver by integrated omic approaches enables enhancing its antimicrobial efficacy in E. coli

Author: H Wang, A Yan, Z Liu, X Yang, Z Xu, Y Wang, R Wang, …
Journal: PLoS Biology
Year: 2019

Selective metabolic effects of gold nanorods on normal and cancer cells and their application in anticancer drug screening

Author: L Zhang, L Wang, Y Hu, Z Liu, Y Tian, X Wu, Y Zhao, H Tang, C Chen, …
Journal: Biomaterials
Year: 2013

Antibody decay, T cell immunity and breakthrough infections following two SARS-CoV-2 vaccine doses in inflammatory bowel disease patients treated with infliximab and vedolizumab

Author: S Lin, NA Kennedy, A Saifuddin, DM Sandoval, CJ Reynolds, RC Seoane, …
Journal: Nature Communications
Year: 2022