Hsu-Shan Huang | Drug Development | Outstanding Scientist Award

Published on by Applied Scientist

Prof. Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang | Drug Development | Outstanding Scientist Award

Professor at Taipei Medical University, Taiwan

Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang is a distinguished professor and biomedical researcher whose career spans over three decades in academia, pharmaceutical sciences, and translational medicine. Currently serving as a Professor at the Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery and the Ph.D. Program in Biotechnology Research and Development at Taipei Medical University, he is also an Adjunct Professor at the National Defense Medical Center. Dr. Huang holds a doctorate (Dr.rer.nat.) in Pharmacy from the University of Regensburg, Germany, and has made groundbreaking contributions to cancer therapeutics, drug development, and pharmacological sciences. He has published over 70 high-impact scientific articles in internationally renowned journals and has held significant leadership positions, including Dean and Director roles at the NDMC and Chief Pharmacist at Tri-Service General Hospital. His expertise lies in structure-based drug design, computational biology, and pharmacoinformatics, with his research actively contributing to the discovery of targeted therapies for cancer, diabetes, and inflammatory diseases. Dr. Huang’s multidisciplinary collaborations across Germany, Italy, the USA, and Taiwan have amplified his impact in global pharmacological research. He is widely recognized for integrating academic rigor with applied biomedical innovation, making him a vital contributor to advancing modern therapeutic strategies in Asia and beyond.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang’s educational trajectory reflects a strong foundation in pharmaceutical sciences, built upon rigorous academic training across both national and international institutions. He began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the National Defense Medical Center (NDMC) in Taipei, Taiwan, in 1985. Motivated to deepen his expertise, he pursued a Master of Science degree at the Graduate Institute of Pharmacy, NDMC, graduating in 1987. His academic excellence and research curiosity led him to Germany, where he completed his Doctorate in Natural Sciences (Dr.rer.nat.) at the Institute of Pharmacy, University of Regensburg, in 1996. This doctoral program equipped him with advanced research skills and a global perspective on pharmaceutical development. Throughout his academic progression, Dr. Huang immersed himself in interdisciplinary training, combining pharmacology, drug design, and molecular biology. His international education not only broadened his scientific insights but also fostered a collaborative mindset that has become central to his professional identity. These formative experiences laid a robust foundation for a prolific research and teaching career, enabling him to contribute significantly to pharmacological sciences, particularly in cancer biology, drug discovery, and bioinformatics-driven medicine.

Professional Experience

Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang has amassed an extensive and impactful professional career, marked by leadership roles, academic appointments, and international collaborations. Since 2014, he has been serving as Professor at Taipei Medical University, contributing to both the Graduate Institute of Cancer Biology and Drug Discovery and the Ph.D. Program in Biotechnology Research and Development. His previous roles include Professor and Dean at the School of Pharmacy, NDMC, and Director of both the Department of Pharmacy Practice and the Department of Research and Development at Tri-Service General Hospital and NDMC, respectively. Dr. Huang has also held prestigious visiting positions at the University of Pavia (Italy), University of Münster (Germany), and The Scripps Research Institute (USA), highlighting his international recognition. Additionally, he served as Secretary General for the Consortium for Globalization of Chinese Medicine, demonstrating his commitment to integrating traditional and modern biomedical sciences. With a teaching and research career beginning in 1987, Dr. Huang progressed from Lecturer to Associate Professor, and then to full Professor, reflecting his consistent contributions and leadership. His career exemplifies a unique blend of academic scholarship, pharmaceutical innovation, and cross-border collaboration, significantly advancing the fields of pharmacology and biomedical research.

Research Interest

Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang’s research interests are rooted in the intersection of cancer biology, drug discovery, and computational pharmacology. His primary focus is on developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting complex diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and neuroinflammation through bioinformatics-driven drug design. He is particularly engaged in the identification of oncogenic biomarkers and the synthesis of small-molecule inhibitors that disrupt key signaling pathways involved in tumor progression, metastasis, and resistance. A significant aspect of his work includes the application of structure-based design and multi-omics analysis to uncover novel drug targets and elucidate mechanisms of drug action. Dr. Huang’s research also explores the therapeutic repurposing of bioactive compounds derived from natural sources and the development of nanomedicine-based delivery systems for targeted therapy. Collaborating globally with computational biologists, chemists, and clinicians, he contributes to preclinical evaluations of potential drug candidates across a range of cancers, including glioblastoma, ovarian, and colorectal cancers. His research aligns with current trends in precision medicine, aiming to personalize treatments based on molecular signatures. By integrating in vitro, in vivo, and in silico methodologies, Dr. Huang is at the forefront of translational science bridging lab-based discovery with clinical application.

Research Skills

Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang possesses a comprehensive repertoire of research skills that span molecular pharmacology, bioinformatics, and translational medicine. His expertise includes structure-based drug design, molecular docking, virtual screening, and multi-omics data integration—tools he employs to identify novel drug targets and evaluate therapeutic efficacy. He is proficient in using computational platforms for in silico modeling and simulation, enabling high-throughput analysis of molecular interactions and predicting pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics profiles. Dr. Huang is also skilled in chemical synthesis and biological evaluation of small molecules, conducting rigorous in vitro and in vivo experiments to assess anticancer, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory properties. He demonstrates advanced capabilities in biomarker identification, gene expression profiling, and signaling pathway elucidation through next-generation sequencing and proteomic techniques. His collaborative work often involves pharmacoinformatics-based compound optimization and target validation using cell line models, animal studies, and patient-derived samples. Additionally, Dr. Huang’s experience with nanomedicine formulation and targeted delivery systems adds a translational dimension to his skill set, enabling bench-to-bedside applications. These multidisciplinary competencies allow him to address complex biomedical challenges, contributing to the development of innovative therapies with enhanced specificity and reduced side effects.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang has been widely recognized for his contributions to pharmacological and biomedical sciences through numerous awards, honors, and prestigious appointments. Over the years, he has received commendations for academic excellence, leadership in pharmaceutical education, and groundbreaking research in drug discovery and translational medicine. His appointment as Professor at top-tier institutions such as Taipei Medical University and National Defense Medical Center is a testament to his professional stature. He served as Secretary General of the Consortium for Globalization of Chinese Medicine, a role highlighting his leadership in integrating traditional medicine with contemporary biomedical approaches. Dr. Huang has been invited as a visiting scientist and professor at renowned international institutes including the University of Pavia, University of Münster, and The Scripps Research Institute, reflecting the global acknowledgment of his expertise. His research articles, many of which are published in Q1 journals with high impact factors, have received significant citations, establishing his influence in the field. In addition to academic accolades, his mentorship of young scientists and leadership in research collaborations further cement his status as a respected figure in pharmacological innovation.

Conclusion

Dr. Hsu-Shan Huang’s career exemplifies the seamless integration of academic excellence, innovative research, and global collaboration in the field of pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences. With over three decades of impactful work, he has not only shaped the landscape of drug discovery and cancer biology in Taiwan but also contributed significantly to international biomedical advancements. His multidisciplinary expertise—spanning molecular pharmacology, computational biology, and translational research—positions him as a thought leader in the development of next-generation therapeutics. Dr. Huang’s contributions have bridged the gap between laboratory research and clinical application, particularly through his work on small-molecule inhibitors, nanomedicine, and biomarker-driven therapies. His dedication to mentorship and collaboration underscores his commitment to cultivating future generations of researchers. Recognized both nationally and internationally, Dr. Huang continues to push the boundaries of biomedical science with a vision centered on precision, innovation, and patient-centered outcomes. As a scholar, educator, and scientific innovator, he stands as a pillar in Taiwan’s scientific community and a valuable collaborator on the global stage.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Computer‑aided drug discovery of a dual‑target inhibitor for ovarian cancer: therapeutic intervention targeting CDK1/TTK signaling pathway and structural insights in the NCI‑60

    • Authors: Tang S.L., Rachmawati M.S., Kuo Y.C., Hsu H.L., Ansar M., Huang S.L., Lee S.Y., Wang H.J., Lawal B., Wu A.T.H., Chen L.C., Huang H.S. et al.

    • Year: 2025

  2. Bioprospection of Hura crepitans metabolites against oxidative stress and inflammation: An in vitro and in silico exploration

    • Authors: Kuo Y.C., Lawal B., Lukman H.Y., Chen L.C., Huang S.L., Chen Y.F., Fadaka A.O., et al.

    • Year: 2025

  3. Evaluation of terpenes‑rich Hura crepitans extract on glucose regulation and diabetic complications in STZ‑induced diabetic rats

    • Authors: Lukman H.Y., Kuo Y.C., Owolabi M.S., Lawal B., Chen L.C., Ajenifujah O.T., Fadaka A.O., et al.

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 4

  4. Structure‑based design, synthesis and biological evaluation of N‑substituted 6H‑thiochromeno[2,3–c]quinolin‑12(12H)-one as potential breast cancer drugs

    • Authors: Rachmawati M.S., Chen L.C., Tsai W.C., Ansar M., Lawal B., Mokgautsi N., Guh J.H., Wu T.H.A., Huang H.S., et al.

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 1

  5. Mechanistic study of dual‑function inhibitors targeting topoisomerase II and Rad51‑mediated DNA repair pathway against castration‑resistant prostate cancer

    • Authors: Chiang Y.C., Leu W.J., Chen Y.C., Ye P.C., Hsiao Y.C., Hsu J.L., Hsu L.C., Huang H.S., Guh J.H., et al.

    • Year: 2023

  6. Identification of CDK1, PBK, and CHEK1 as an Oncogenic Signature in Glioblastoma: A Bioinformatics Approach to Repurpose Dapagliflozin as a Therapeutic Agent

    • Authors: Chinyama H.A., Wei L., Mokgautsi N., Lawal B., Wu T.H.A., Huang H.S., et al.

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 6

  7. In Silico Evaluation of HN‑N07 Small Molecule as an Inhibitor of Angiogenesis and Lymphangiogenesis Oncogenic Signatures in Non‑Small Cell Lung Cancer

    • Authors: Chen L.C., Mokgautsi N., Kuo Y.C., Wu T.H.A., Huang H.S., et al.

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 3

  8. Multi‑Omics Identification of Genetic Alterations in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Therapeutic Efficacy of HNC018 as a Novel Multi‑Target Agent for c‑MET/STAT3/AKT Signaling Axis

    • Authors: Mokgautsi N., Kuo Y.C., Chen C.H., Huang Y.J., Wu T.H.A., Huang H.S., et al.

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 6

  9. Apigetrin‑enriched Pulmeria alba extract prevents assault of STZ on pancreatic β‑cells and neuronal oxidative stress with concomitant attenuation of tissue damage and suppression of inflammation in the brain of diabetic rats

    • Authors: Rachmawati M.S., Chen L.C., Tsai W.C., Ansar M., Lawal B., Mokgautsi N., Guh J.H., Wu T.H.A., Huang H.S., et al.

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 8

  10. In silico study of novel niclosamide derivatives, SARS‑CoV‑2 nonstructural proteins catalytic residue‑targeting small molecules drug candidates

    • Authors: Lawal B., Tsai S.K., Wu T.H.A., Huang H.S., et al.

    • Year: 2023

    •  Citations: 3

Jinging Wu | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Applied Scientist

Mrs. Jinging Wu | Organic Chemistry | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Shanghai Institute of Technology, China

Dr. Jingjing Wu is an accomplished Associate Professor at the Shanghai Institute of Technology, with a research portfolio that demonstrates deep expertise in organic fluorine chemistry and green pharmaceutical synthesis. With a strong foundation in designing small-molecule fluorinated drugs and developing eco-friendly methods for synthesizing pharmaceutical intermediates, Dr. Wu has significantly advanced the field of medicinal chemistry. Her innovative work emphasizes sustainable practices, making notable strides in the development of difluoroalkylated building blocks and environmentally conscious alkylation techniques. Having completed or managed 10 research projects and contributed to over 51 peer-reviewed publications indexed in SCI and Scopus, she has become a recognized name in her domain. Dr. Wu also holds 23 patents, underscoring her commitment to translational research and industrial relevance. Her active collaboration with peers, notably with researcher Fanhong Wu, enriches her multidisciplinary approach to chemical innovation. A member of the Chinese Chemical Society, Dr. Wu is dedicated to the advancement of science through both research and mentorship. Her research has garnered 22 citations and supported five consultancy projects with industry partners. She continues to push the boundaries of organic chemistry with a focus on societal impact, environmental responsibility, and scientific rigor.

Professional Profiles

Education

Dr. Jingjing Wu’s academic journey reflects her longstanding dedication to chemical research and innovation. She pursued higher education in chemistry, specializing in organic synthesis with an emphasis on fluorinated compounds, which laid the groundwork for her current focus on pharmaceutical applications. Though specific degree details are not provided, her extensive knowledge and the depth of her current work as an Associate Professor at the Shanghai Institute of Technology speak volumes about the quality of her educational background. She likely received rigorous training in both theoretical and practical aspects of organic chemistry, allowing her to master the intricacies of reaction mechanisms and modern synthetic methods. Her academic path would have included specialized coursework and hands-on research in fluorine chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and green chemical technologies. This academic grounding has been instrumental in enabling her to train students, lead complex research projects, and develop new methodologies in drug synthesis. Dr. Wu’s commitment to continuous learning is also evident in her evolving research scope, which now encompasses green synthesis routes and the industrial scalability of pharmaceutical intermediates. Her educational foundation continues to support her role as a scientific innovator and educator in the competitive field of medicinal and organic chemistry.

Professional Experience

As an Associate Professor at the Shanghai Institute of Technology, Dr. Jingjing Wu brings a wealth of experience in teaching, research, and scientific development. Over the years, she has skillfully balanced her roles as a researcher and educator, contributing extensively to the advancement of organic chemistry, especially in the context of pharmaceutical synthesis. She has led 10 research projects and collaborated on numerous others, consistently pushing the boundaries of small-molecule fluorinated drug design. Her academic leadership includes mentoring students, developing curriculum content focused on green and sustainable chemistry, and fostering interdisciplinary research. Dr. Wu has also been actively involved in consultancy roles, contributing her expertise to five industry-focused projects. Her close collaboration with researcher Fanhong Wu has helped bridge the gap between academic research and practical applications, especially in drug development pipelines. Dr. Wu’s patent portfolio—23 strong—reflects the translational nature of her work and its potential for industrial impact. Despite the absence of published books, her 51 publications in indexed journals stand as a testament to her research productivity and thought leadership. Her professional engagements continue to reflect her deep commitment to chemical innovation, sustainability, and academic excellence.

Research Interest

Dr. Jingjing Wu’s research interests lie at the intersection of organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and sustainable chemical synthesis. She is particularly focused on the development of small-molecule fluorinated drugs and novel methodologies that contribute to the green synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Her work delves into the complex chemistry of fluorine—a challenging yet rewarding element in organic synthesis due to its unique electronic and steric properties. One of her key innovations includes the design and synthesis of difluoroalkylated building blocks, particularly iodofluorinated ketones, which serve as versatile intermediates in drug discovery. Dr. Wu is deeply invested in the methodological development of eco-friendly alkylation reactions that utilize these fluorinated scaffolds to construct structurally diverse and pharmacologically relevant compounds. Her research not only advances the understanding of fluorine’s role in medicinal chemistry but also aligns with global goals of reducing the environmental footprint of pharmaceutical manufacturing. This dual emphasis on functionality and sustainability places her work at the forefront of modern synthetic chemistry. Collaborations with researchers like Fanhong Wu further support her interdisciplinary approach and commitment to real-world applications. Dr. Wu’s research continues to inspire novel directions in both academic and industrial settings.

Research Skills

Dr. Jingjing Wu possesses a comprehensive skill set in organic synthesis, particularly in the domain of fluorinated drug discovery and green chemistry. Her expertise includes advanced techniques in reaction optimization, synthesis of complex small molecules, and the development of novel chemical methodologies. She has demonstrated high proficiency in designing and executing fluorination strategies using environmentally benign reagents, which is a critical capability in pharmaceutical development. One of her standout skills lies in the construction of difluoroalkylated compounds using iodofluorinated ketones—a process that requires nuanced control over reactivity and selectivity. She is also adept at performing structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies, a fundamental component of medicinal chemistry that guides drug optimization. With hands-on experience managing research projects and industry collaborations, she excels in both academic and applied chemical research. Additionally, Dr. Wu is skilled in interpreting NMR, IR, and mass spectrometry data for compound characterization, ensuring the validity and reproducibility of her synthetic work. Her ability to balance innovation with green chemistry principles makes her a valuable contributor to sustainable pharmaceutical science. Through mentoring and collaborative research, she continues to pass these technical competencies on to the next generation of chemists.

Awards and Honors

While specific awards are not listed, Dr. Jingjing Wu’s substantial contributions to the field of organic chemistry strongly position her for accolades such as the Best Researcher Award. Her impressive record—comprising 51 published papers, 23 patents, and leadership in 10 research projects—reflects a career driven by scientific innovation and excellence. Her work in fluorinated compound synthesis and green pharmaceutical processes has addressed critical challenges in drug development and environmental sustainability, earning her the respect of peers in both academic and industrial circles. Her research impact, though still emerging with 22 citations, is amplified by her unique focus on difluoroalkylated building blocks and her success in developing multiple green alkylation strategies. Dr. Wu’s consultancy work and industrial collaborations demonstrate the practical relevance of her innovations, a quality often recognized in high-level scientific awards. Additionally, her active role in the Chinese Chemical Society and collaboration with notable researchers like Fanhong Wu further signal her leadership in the chemical sciences community. Dr. Wu’s body of work reflects not just scholarly excellence but also a commitment to real-world impact, making her a strong candidate for current and future honors in scientific research.

Conclusion

Dr. Jingjing Wu exemplifies the qualities of a leading researcher, educator, and innovator in the field of organic and medicinal chemistry. Her career at the Shanghai Institute of Technology is marked by a strategic blend of academic rigor and real-world applicability. With a deep-rooted passion for the development of sustainable, fluorinated pharmaceutical compounds, she has contributed extensively to the advancement of green synthetic methodologies. Her 51 journal publications, 23 patents, and multiple research and consultancy projects highlight a robust professional portfolio that continues to grow in relevance and impact. Dr. Wu’s approach to research—combining originality with environmental consciousness—positions her at the forefront of contemporary chemical science. As an educator, she nurtures the next generation of scientists, ensuring that the principles of sustainability and innovation are passed on. Her collaborations, particularly with researcher Fanhong Wu, and her active participation in professional societies reinforce her commitment to community and knowledge sharing. With a strong foundation in research and a clear vision for the future, Dr. Wu remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of chemistry to serve both industry and society. She is not only a valuable asset to her institution but also a rising figure in the global scientific community.

 Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Novel Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)-based ratiometric fluorescent probe for detection of cyanides by nucleophilic substitution of aromatic hydrogen (SNArH)
    Authors: She, Qiunan; Cao, Yingmei; Zhou, Yicong; Wu, Jingjing; Liu, Chuanxiang
    Year: 2025

  2. Title: Green Light-Driven Organophosphine-Catalyzed Iododifluoroalkylation of Alkynes
    Authors: Li, Yicong; Yu, Tianjing; Guo, Jinyu; Wu, Jingjing; Wu, Fanhong
    Year: 2025

  3. Title: Copper-Catalyzed Asymmetric Tertiary Radical Cyanation for the Synthesis of Chiral Tetrasubstituted Monofluoroacyl Nitriles
    Authors: Liu, Li; Jiang, Qi; Tang, Long; Wu, Fanhong; Wu, Jingjing
    Year: 2024

  4. Title: 1,2-Oxidative Trifluoromethylation of Olefin with Ag(O₂CCF₂SO₂F) and O₂: Synthesis of α-Trifluoromethyl Ketones
    Authors: Zhang, Shengxue; Xiao, Wangchuan; Wu, Jingjing; Shi, Yafei; Liu, Chao
    Year: 2024

  5. Title: A unique near-infrared fluorescent probe based on dual-DNP binding sites for rapid monitoring of hydrogen sulfide in food samples and living cells
    Authors: Ma, Lili; Yang, Yinliang; Anwar, Gulziba; Wu, Jingjing; Liu, Chuanxiang
    Year: 2024

  6. Title: Copper(I) Iodide-Catalyzed Perfluoroalkoxylation Reaction of Alkyl Halides
    Authors: Wu, Xiong; Le, Bingjun; Xiao, Wangchuan; Ma, Xiaoyu; Liu, Chao
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

  7. Title: Visible Light-Induced Copper-Catalyzed Regio- and Stereoselective Difluoroalkylthiocyanation of Alkynes
    Authors: Hu, Xiaoxue; Wang, Yanzhao; Xu, Shibo; Wu, Jingjing; Wu, Fanhong
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 3