Rhea Coler | Biotechnology | Research Hypothesis Excellence Award

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Prof. Rhea Coler | Biotechnology | Research Hypothesis Excellence Award

Principal Investigator at Seattle Children’s Research Institute / University of Washington, United States

Dr. Rhea Nadine Coler is a distinguished immunologist and global health researcher with over two decades of impactful contributions to infectious disease research, vaccine development, and translational immunology. Currently serving as a Professor at the University of Washington School of Medicine and Senior Investigator at Seattle Children’s Research Institute, she has held multiple leadership roles, including Vice President of Research and Development at IDRI and PAI Life Sciences. Her career is marked by significant involvement in international health organizations such as the World Health Organization, Gates Medical Research Institute, and GSK Vaccines Institute for Global Health. A committed educator and mentor, Dr. Coler has guided numerous Ph.D. candidates and postdoctoral fellows while leading curriculum development in global health. She is also a strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion, spearheading anti-racism initiatives within her institution. With editorial roles in journals like Frontiers in Immunology and a long-standing record of NIH grant reviews, Dr. Coler exemplifies research excellence, leadership, and dedication to advancing global health.

Professional Profile 

🎓 Educational Background of Dr. Rhea Coler

Dr. Rhea Coler’s academic journey reflects a deep commitment to biomedical sciences and global health. She began her education at St. Joseph’s Convent in Trinidad, completing both her GCE Ordinary and Advanced Levels. She earned her B.Sc. in Physiology from McGill University in Montreal, Canada, laying the foundation for her future in biomedical research. She went on to complete her M.Sc. in Medical Parasitology at the prestigious London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine in the UK. Further strengthening her research credentials, she pursued graduate-level studies in Pathobiology and Epidemiology at Washington State University. Dr. Coler culminated her formal education with a Ph.D. in Pathobiology from the University of Washington, where her research was conducted at Corixa Corporation. This rich and international academic background has uniquely positioned her to lead groundbreaking work in infectious diseases and immunology.

💼 Professional Experience of Dr. Rhea Coler

Dr. Rhea Coler has built an exemplary career at the intersection of academic research, biotechnology, and global health. She began as a Post-doctoral Scientist at the Infectious Disease Research Institute (IDRI), eventually advancing through pivotal roles such as Scientist, Director of Preclinical Biology, and ultimately Senior Vice President of Translational Research. Concurrently, she held leadership roles at PAI Life Sciences Inc. as Vice President of Research and Development. In academia, Dr. Coler has served as an Affiliate Professor and now as a Professor of Pediatrics in Infectious Diseases at the University of Washington School of Medicine, as well as a Senior Investigator at the Seattle Children’s Research Institute. Her extensive experience also includes editorial responsibilities, NIH grant reviews, and international advisory work, reflecting her far-reaching influence in infectious disease research and vaccine development.

🔬 Research Interests of Dr. Rhea Coler

Dr. Rhea Coler’s research is centered on infectious diseases, immunology, and vaccine development, with a strong focus on host-pathogen interactions and immune responses to neglected tropical diseases and emerging pathogens. Her work emphasizes the design and preclinical development of novel vaccine candidates for diseases such as tuberculosis, leishmaniasis, and other parasitic and bacterial infections. She is particularly interested in understanding protective immune mechanisms, identifying biomarkers of vaccine efficacy, and advancing adjuvant technologies to enhance immune responses. Dr. Coler is also engaged in translational immunology, bridging laboratory discoveries with real-world applications through global health partnerships and clinical research collaborations. Her goal is to develop safe, effective, and accessible vaccines to improve health outcomes in vulnerable populations worldwide.

🏆 Awards and Honors of Dr. Rhea Coler

Dr. Rhea Coler has received numerous prestigious awards and honors that reflect her outstanding contributions to biomedical research and global health. Early in her career, she was recognized for her master’s research at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, earning a departmental award and a Halley Stewart Foundation Research Grant. She was later awarded a highly competitive NIH Pre-doctoral Biotechnology Fellowship and continued to earn NIH/NIAID fellowships during both her doctoral and postdoctoral training, highlighting her early promise in infectious disease research. Her work has consistently attracted national recognition, leading to her selection as a reviewer, panelist, and chair for major NIH and global grant review panels. In addition, she has been honored by organizations such as the ARCS Foundation, the New York Community Trust Heiser Program for Research, and international institutions for her leadership in science and commitment to mentoring the next generation of researchers.

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Rhea Coler is an outstanding candidate for the Research Hypothesis Excellence Award. Her career demonstrates sustained excellence in hypothesis-driven translational research, leadership in global health innovation, mentoring, and a deep commitment to scientific integrity and DEI values.

🧾 Publication List of Dr. Rhea Coler

  1. Title: Evaluation of host immune responses to Mycobacteriophage Fionnbharth by route of delivery
    Authors: [Authors not listed here, as per source]
    Journal: Virology Journal
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

  2. Title: Comparative study on the virulence of mycobacteriophages
    Authors: [Authors not listed here]
    Journal: Journal of Virology
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

  3. Title: Characterizing TLR4 agonist EmT4™ as an anti-Mycobacterium tuberculosis vaccine adjuvant
    Authors: [Authors not listed here]
    Journal: Immunohorizons
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

  4. Title: DEVELOPMENT AND CONCORDANCE OF BINDING AND NEUTRALIZING ASSAYS TO DETERMINE SARS-COV-2 ANTIBODY ACTIVITY IN HUMAN MILK
    Authors: [Authors not listed here]
    Journal: Pathogens and Immunity
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

  5. Title: The Sm14+GLA-SE Recombinant Vaccine Against Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium in Adults and School Children: Phase II Clinical Trials in West Africa
    Authors: [Authors not listed here]
    Journal: Vaccines
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

  6. Title: Backtranslation of human RNA biosignatures of tuberculosis disease risk into the preclinical pipeline is condition dependent
    Authors: [Authors not listed here]
    Journal: mSphere
    Year: 2025
    Citations: 0

  7. Title: Enhanced D614G and Omicron Variants Antibody Persistence in Infants at 2 Months of Age Following Maternal mRNA Booster Vaccination During Pregnancy or Postpartum
    Authors: [Authors not listed here]
    Journal: Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

  8. Title: Maternal COVID-19 Vaccination and Prevention of Symptomatic Infection in Infants
    Authors: [Authors not listed here]
    Journal: Pediatrics
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 11

  9. Title: Recombinase-based amplification coupled with lateral flow chromatography for the specific and sensitive detection and identification of Leishmania major in cutaneous leishmaniasis patients
    Authors: [Authors not listed here]
    Journal: Frontiers in Microbiology
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

  10. Title: Understanding the development of tuberculous granulomas: insights into host protection and pathogenesis, a review in humans and animals
    Authors: [Authors not listed here]
    Type: Review
    Year: [Not mentioned explicitly, assumed 2024/2025]
    Citations: 1

Jim Sheu | Medicine and Health Sciences | Hypothesis Achievement Award

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Jim Sheu | Medicine and Health Sciences | Hypothesis Achievement Award

Prof Jim Sheu, National Sun Yatsen University, Taiwan

Prof. Jim Sheu is a distinguished biomedical scientist with over two decades of academic and research excellence in life sciences. Holding a Ph.D. in Life Science from National Tsing-Hua University (2002), he has consistently advanced the frontiers of molecular oncology, stem cell therapy, and women’s reproductive health. Currently a professor at National Sun Yat-sen University, Taiwan, he has previously held prestigious research and academic positions at China Medical University and Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions. He is widely recognized for his role in leading innovative biomedical projects and mentoring the next generation of scientists. Prof. Sheu has made pioneering contributions to cancer genomics, glioblastoma therapeutics, and endometriosis research. His prolific publication record and multiple awards underline his leadership and innovation in the field. His work bridges translational research with clinical applications, shaping modern therapeutic strategies.

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Prof. Jim Sheu’s educational journey laid a strong foundation for his impactful scientific career. He earned his Ph.D. in Life Science from the prestigious National Tsing-Hua University, Taiwan, in 2002 🧬. This doctoral training provided him with deep expertise in molecular biology, genetics, and biomedical research. Prior to that, he completed his B.S. in Biology from Fu-Jen University, Taiwan, in 1994 🧪. The rigorous academic environment at these institutions honed his critical thinking and experimental skills. His thesis and postdoctoral work involved advanced molecular techniques and translational research applications. With education deeply rooted in cellular biology and medical biotechnology, Prof. Sheu has seamlessly integrated his academic background with real-world research, evolving into a leading expert in cancer biology, stem cell therapies, and women’s health. His academic excellence has continued to inspire his students and collaborators across various institutes.

Experience

Prof. Sheu’s career spans academia, clinical research, and biotechnology. Since 2014, he has served as Professor at the Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University 🏫. Previously, he held multiple roles at China Medical University (2006–2014), including Researcher, Professor, Associate Professor, and Assistant Professor in the Graduate Institute of Chinese Medical Science 🧑‍🏫. His early international experience includes being a Research Fellow at Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions (2004–2006) 🔬. He also held leadership positions at Taiwan’s Development Center for Biotechnology (2003–2004), directing and managing key protein drug and biomedicine projects. His academic and research trajectory is marked by interdisciplinary innovation, integrating biomedical engineering, genetics, and pharmacology. Prof. Sheu’s deep involvement in translational research and collaborative initiatives underpins his reputation as a scientific leader in Taiwan and beyond.

Awards & Honors

Prof. Sheu has earned several prestigious honors celebrating his research excellence and innovation. In 2023, he was part of the award-winning Biomedical Team at National Sun Yat-sen University for a serum-free stem cell medium at the NBRP Pitch Day 🧫🏅. He also received the Outstanding Faculty of Basic Research award and the Tien-Te Lee Award for an outstanding poster on stem cell therapies for Parkinson’s disease. In 2022, he was honored by the Taiwan Endometriosis Society for his research using traditional medicine to modulate immune responses 🌿🧠. Additionally, he won the Prof. Chii-Ruey Tzeng Award for an impactful paper in endometriosis research. These accolades highlight Prof. Sheu’s interdisciplinary impact, bridging traditional Chinese medicine, molecular biology, and cutting-edge therapeutic development. His continuous recognition by scientific communities underscores his leadership in biomedical innovation.

Research Projects

Prof. Jim Sheu has actively contributed as a project reviewer in the field of life sciences since 2012 🌱. He serves the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) in Taiwan and has reviewed projects for various institutions including Tri-Service General Hospital (2021–present), Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital (2021–present), and Zuoying Armed Forces General Hospital (2020–present) 🏥. He also evaluated projects for National Tsing-Hua University (2023) and Kaohsiung Chang Gung Smart Hospital (2022) 🎓. His expertise has extended globally, reviewing for Italy’s Ministry of Health in 2015 🇮🇹 and South Africa’s Medical Research Council in 2012 🇿🇦, showcasing his international recognition 🌍.

Research Focus

Prof. Sheu’s research is centered on cancer biology, stem cell therapy, gynecological diseases, and translational medicine. He explores the molecular mechanisms of tumor progression, particularly in microsatellite instability and glioblastoma 🔍🧠. His investigations into ethnic-specific genetic markers for endometriosis and ovarian aging highlight his commitment to personalized medicine. Another focus lies in the regulation of immune responses using traditional herbal compounds, bridging modern molecular science with Eastern medicine 🌿🧪. He has led multi-omics studies that decode complex disease pathways, including mitochondrial dysfunction in breast cancer. Additionally, he is advancing serum-free stem cell enhancement technologies aimed at clinical application. Prof. Sheu’s interdisciplinary approach links genomics, proteomics, and pharmacology, translating basic research into viable therapeutic strategies. His work significantly contributes to understanding cellular aging, reproductive biology, and cancer therapy.

Publication Top Notes

Functional genomic analysis identified epidermal growth factor receptor activation as the most common genetic event in oral squamous cell carcinoma

Amplification of a chromatin remodeling gene, Rsf-1/HBXAP, in ovarian carcinoma

A BTB/POZ protein, NAC-1, is related to tumor recurrence and is essential for tumor growth and survival

Puerariae radix isoflavones and their metabolites inhibit growth and induce apoptosis in breast cancer cells

Autophagy and its link to type II diabetes mellitus

Talin‐1 overexpression defines high risk for aggressive oral squamous cell carcinoma and promotes cancer metastasis

Kaempferol inhibits enterovirus 71 replication and internal ribosome entry site (IRES) activity through FUBP and HNRP proteins

 

 

 

Jwee Chiek Er | Biology and Life Sciences | Pioneer Researcher Award

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Jwee Chiek Er | Biology and Life Sciences | Pioneer Researcher Award

Researcher, Norwegian Veterinary Institution, Norway

Dr. Jwee Chiek Er is a distinguished veterinary epidemiologist and researcher dedicated to advancing animal health. 🐖📈 Since 2007, he has worked full-time at the Norwegian Veterinary Institute, focusing on epidemiology and bioinformatics. 🇳🇴🔬 He also serves part-time as a church servant at Uranienborg Menighet since 2020. ⛪ Previously, Dr. Er contributed significantly to veterinary inspection in Singapore’s pig and poultry slaughterhouses (1991–2006) and served as a Captain in the Singapore Armed Forces (1989–1991). 🛡️🏥 With a Ph.D. from the University of Life Sciences, Norway, an MPVM from UC Davis, and a BVSc from the University of Queensland, Dr. Er’s career blends scientific excellence with public service. 🎓🌍 His pioneering research on influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus infection in pigs has had lasting impacts on veterinary public health. 🦠📖 A committed scholar with 14 peer-reviewed publications, Dr. Er exemplifies the qualities honored by the Pioneer Researcher Award. 🏆✨

Publication  Profile

Orcid

Education 

Dr. Jwee Chiek Er holds a rich academic background dedicated to veterinary science and epidemiology. 🎓🐾 He earned his Ph.D. in 2006 from the University of Life Sciences, Oslo, Norway, presenting a landmark thesis on epidemiological studies of influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus infections in Norwegian pigs. 🇳🇴📚 He pursued his Master’s in Preventive Veterinary Medicine (MPVM) at the prestigious University of California, Davis, USA, graduating in 2000 with a focus on Veterinary Epidemiology. 🇺🇸📊 Dr. Er began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc) from the University of Queensland, Australia, in 1989, grounding him firmly in veterinary practice. 🇦🇺🩺 His education reflects a lifelong commitment to enhancing animal health and advancing veterinary epidemiology through global learning experiences, interdisciplinary knowledge, and applied research, making him a fitting nominee for the Pioneer Researcher Award. 🏅🌟

Experience 

Dr. Jwee Chiek Er’s professional journey reflects outstanding dedication across diverse fields. 🌟 From 2007 onwards, he has been a full-time researcher at the Norwegian Veterinary Institute, specializing in epidemiology and bioinformatics. 🐷📊 In 2020, he also took on part-time service as a church servant at Uranienborg Menighet, den norsk luthersk kirke. ⛪ Before his research career, Dr. Er served in Singapore’s civil service (1991–2006), ensuring veterinary inspection and public health in pig and poultry slaughterhouses. 🐔🔍 He started his career in national service, where he rose to the rank of Captain in the Singapore Armed Forces as a logistics officer (1989–1991). 🎖️🚛 These extensive experiences demonstrate his leadership, scientific expertise, and commitment to public welfare. His professional background embodies the spirit of perseverance and innovation celebrated by the Pioneer Researcher Award. 🏅📈

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Jwee Chiek Er’s career is a testament to persistent excellence and leadership. 🌟 Although specific award listings were not detailed, his achievements themselves reflect high recognition in the veterinary science community. 🐾📈 His Ph.D. thesis and impactful peer-reviewed publications have significantly advanced knowledge of influenza epidemiology in pig populations, demonstrating award-worthy innovation. 🦠🔬 His pioneering surveillance work on influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 infections in Norway greatly contributed to national animal health strategies. 🇳🇴🐖 Furthermore, Dr. Er’s role in public veterinary service in Singapore and his distinguished service in the Singapore Armed Forces earned him respect and authority early in his career. 🎖️🌏 Nomination for the Pioneer Researcher Award is a fitting tribute to his lifelong dedication to animal health, epidemiological innovation, and scientific leadership. 🏅📚 His work bridges practice and research, influencing veterinary policies across nations. 🌐✨

Research Focus 

Dr. Jwee Chiek Er’s research centers on the epidemiology of infectious diseases in animal populations, with a strong focus on influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus in pigs. 🐖🦠 His studies analyze infection patterns, serosurveillance, and economic impacts on animal health, providing essential insights for disease control and public health policy. 📊🛡️ Using bioinformatics and mathematical modeling, such as discrete-time Markov Chain modeling, he projects disease prevalence and evaluates herd-level interventions. 📈🖥️ His research also explores serological cross-reactivity between influenza strains, crucial for improving diagnostic and surveillance systems. 🧬🔍 Through longitudinal studies at boar testing stations and comprehensive serological surveys, Dr. Er has significantly advanced understanding of viral behavior in livestock. 📑📈 His interdisciplinary approach integrating epidemiology, economics, and computational tools highlights him as a pioneer in veterinary research. 🏆🔬 His work supports healthier livestock systems and contributes to global food security. 🌍🍖

Publications Top Notes

  • 📄 “Adverse Effects of Influenza A(H1N1)Pdm09 Virus Infection on Growth Performance of Norwegian Pigs – a Longitudinal Study at a Boar Testing Station” (BMC Vet Res, 2014)

  • 📄 “Occurrence and Spread of Influenza A(H1N1)Pdm09 Virus Infection in Norwegian Pig Herds Based on Active Serosurveillance from 2010 to 2014” (Epidemiol Infect, 2016)

  • 📄 “Production Impact of Influenza A(H1N1)Pdm09 Virus Infection on Fattening Pigs in Norway” (J Anim Sci, 2016)

  • 📄 “Longitudinal Projection of Herd Prevalence of Influenza A(H1N1)Pdm09 Virus Infection in the Norwegian Pig Population by Discrete-Time Markov Chain Modelling” (Infectious Disease Reports, 2021)

  • 📄 “Antibodies of Influenza A(H1N1)Pdm09 Virus in Pigs’ Sera Cross-React with Other Influenza A Virus Subtypes: A Retrospective Epidemiological Interpretation of Norway’s Serosurveillance Data from 2009–2017” (Epidemiology and Infection, 2020)

  • 📄 “A Survey of Skin Neoplasms in Dogs from the Brisbane Region” (Aust Vet J, 1989)

Karen Kengne Kamga | Genetics and Genomics | Best Researcher Award

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Karen Kengne Kamga | Genetics and Genomics | Best Researcher Award

Dr Karen Kengne Kamga, Limbe Regional Hospital, south west, Cameroon, Cameroon

Dr. Karen Kengne Kamga is a dynamic physician-scientist from Cameroon, blending clinical expertise with advanced research in human and medical genetics. With an M.D. from the University of Yaoundé I and a Ph.D. in Genetic Counselling from the University of Cape Town, she has become a leading figure in genomic medicine across Africa. She currently serves as a postdoctoral researcher in Human Genetics, Head of Medical Genetics at Limbe Regional Hospital, and Associate Lecturer at the University of Yaoundé I. Passionate about bridging clinical gaps in genetic services in Africa, she’s contributed significantly to fragile X syndrome understanding and healthcare system integration of genetic counselling. Dr. Kamga is a strong advocate for capacity building, precision public health, and equitable genomic research.

Publication Profile

Orcid

Education

Dr. Kamga began her academic journey at GBHS Bafoussam, completing her GCE Ordinary and Advanced Levels. She earned her MD in General Medicine from the University of Yaoundé I in 2013. Driven by a passion for genetics, she pursued a Ph.D. in Genetic Counselling at the University of Cape Town, which she completed in December 2021. To expand her administrative and clinical leadership, she enrolled in an MBA in Health Management at UNICAF University, completed in 2023. She is also pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Genetics at Tech Global University, Andorra (2023–2024). In parallel, she is a postdoctoral fellow in Human Genetics at the University of Cape Town since 2021. Her multi-disciplinary training spans medicine, genetics, health management, epidemiology, and bioinformatics, equipping her to lead innovation in genomic healthcare delivery in low-resource settings.

Experience

Dr. Kamga’s career began as a physician at “Cabinet de soin St Dominique” (2013–2014), followed by multiple leadership roles at District Hospital Limbe from 2014 to 2023, including Head of Pediatrics, Gynecology/Obstetrics, Surgical Unit, ANC & EPI, and Laboratory Coordinator. In 2023, she became Head of Medical Genetics at the Limbe Regional Hospital. Simultaneously, since 2024, she is an Associate Lecturer at the University of Yaoundé I. Her experience reflects a strong commitment to integrating genetic services within mainstream healthcare and public health teaching. Her roles have combined clinical excellence, mentorship, and system-level leadership, all contributing to a national vision for personalized medicine and public health genetics.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Kamga’s research excellence has been widely recognized through prestigious international honors. She received the 2024 Resource-Limited Country Travel Award and the 2021 & 2020 Developing Country Virtual Meeting Awards from the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG). In 2019, she earned the ASHG Developing Country Travel Award. These honors reflect her impactful presence in the global genetics research community. She is also a respected member of several professional societies: ASHG (since 2020), African Society of Human Genetics (since 2017), and the Cameroon Society of Human Genetics (since 2015). Her accolades underscore a consistent dedication to research, equity, and capacity building in genetic medicine in Africa.

Research Focus

Dr. Kamga’s research focuses on bridging the gap between advanced genetic knowledge and its clinical implementation in Africa. Her Ph.D. investigated cultural perceptions and explanatory models of Fragile X Syndrome in rural Cameroon, highlighting the need for community-sensitive genetic counselling. As a postdoctoral fellow, she explores the integration of human genetics into public health, emphasizing equitable access to genomic services. She led a scoping review identifying strategic pathways to strengthen genetic healthcare in Africa. Her work spans genomic ethics, bioinformatics, genetic education, and precision public health, consistently aiming to enhance genetic literacy and healthcare systems in resource-limited settings. She is deeply involved in collaborative African genomics initiatives like H3Africa, and committed to mentoring emerging scientists.

Publication Top Notes

Advancing Genetic Services in African Healthcare: Challenges, Opportunities, and Strategic Insights from a Scoping Review

Navigating the Genetic Frontier for the Integration of Genetic Services into African Healthcare Systems: A scoping review

Perceptions and preferences for genetic testing for sickle cell disease or trait: a qualitative study in Cameroon, Ghana and Tanzania

Caught between pity, explicit bias, and discrimination: a qualitative study on the impact of stigma on the quality of life of persons living with sickle cell disease in three African countries

Explanatory models for the cause of Fragile X Syndrome in rural Cameroon

Knowledge and Challenges Associated With Hearing Impairment in Affected Individuals From Cameroon (Sub-Saharan Africa)

Negotiating political power and stigma around fragile X Syndrome in a rural village in Cameroon: A tale of a royal family and a community