Dr. Debmalya Bhunia – Chemical Biology – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Debmalya Bhunia - Chemical Biology - Best Researcher Award

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory - United States

AUTHOR PROFILE 

SCOPUS 

ORCID 

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS 🎓

DEBMALYA BHUNIA'S academic journey began with a strong foundation in chemistry, which paved the way for his outstanding contributions to the field of organic and medicinal chemistry. He completed his doctoral research at the CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Biology, Kolkata, India, where he earned his degree from the University of Calcutta. During his studies, Debmalya focused on designing and synthesizing organelle-specific peptides, small molecules, and lipids for targeted drug delivery systems. His work involved advancing drug delivery mechanisms, particularly using liposomal lipopeptides for tumor inhibition. This early academic pursuit set the stage for a career dedicated to innovative biomedical research.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS 🌍

After his doctoral work, Debmalya honed his expertise further by working at various prestigious institutions. He served as a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at The Ohio State University, where his research focused on the design and synthesis of noncanonical nucleobases and novel peptide nucleic acids (PNAs). His work in the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department involved developing cell-based assays for PNA-DNA/RNA interactions, which are crucial for understanding genetic material manipulation. Debmalya then moved to Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, New York, where he made significant contributions in chemical biology and molecular biology, particularly in DNA/RNA mutagenesis, DNA preservation, and the design of cancer vaccines using innovative peptide nucleic acid strategies.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS 🔬

Debmalya’s research focuses on the intersection of chemical biology, DNA/RNA sequence manipulation, and therapeutic development. He has developed new methodologies for DNA preservation and translation inhibition, contributing to a deeper understanding of gene expression regulation. His expertise in designing bifacial PNAs and utilizing click chemistry for DNA Chemical Biology coupling has opened new avenues for genetic research and therapy development. His recent work includes exploring potential applications of peptide nucleic acids in cancer vaccine development, positioning him at the forefront of genetic engineering and molecular therapeutics.

ACCREDITATION AND RECOGNITION 🏅

Debmalya’s exceptional research and innovative contributions have been recognized by his peers in academia and industry. His work on peptide-based drug delivery systems and cancer Chemical Biology vaccines has garnered attention for its potential in translational medicine. At Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, he was promoted to Senior Fellow in January 2025, underscoring his commitment and expertise in advancing biomedical sciences. His postdoctoral fellowships at The Ohio State University and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, coupled with his early career accomplishments, reflect his standing as a prominent figure in chemical biology and molecular medicine.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE 🌐

Debmalya’s work has significantly influenced the fields of drug delivery, peptide chemistry, and molecular therapeutics. His innovative research on peptide nucleic acids and DNA/RNA Chemical Biology interactions holds great promise for improving our understanding of genetic diseases and developing targeted therapies. His pioneering efforts in cancer vaccine design using peptide nucleic acids demonstrate his ability to bridge the gap between basic chemistry and clinical applications. Debmalya’s impact is not limited to academia but extends to biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, where his findings could lead to the development of novel treatments.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS 🚀

As Debmalya advances in his career, his research is poised to leave a lasting legacy in the realms of chemical biology, therapeutic development, and molecular engineering. His ongoing work at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory promises to yield even more groundbreaking discoveries, particularly in the area of cancer therapy and genetic manipulation. His future contributions will likely continue to shape the future of personalized medicine, gene therapy, and targeted drug delivery, making him a key figure in the evolution of modern biomedical sciences.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

  • Title: Peptide nucleic acids: Recent advancements and future opportunities in biomedical applications
    Authors: Achinta Sannigrahi; Nayan De; Debmalya Bhunia; Jhuma Bhadra
    Journal: Bioorganic Chemistry (2025)
    DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2025.108146
  • Title: Modular synthesis of functional libraries by accelerated SuFEx click chemistry
    Authors: Joshua Homer; Rebecca A. Koelln; Andrew Barrow; Timothy Gialelis; Zlata Boiarska; Nikita Steinohrt; Erinna Lee; Wen-Hsuan Yang; Robert Johnson; Taemoon Chung et al.
    Journal: Chemical Science (2024)
    DOI: 10.1039/d3sc05729a
  • Title: Designed hybrid anticancer nuclear-localized peptide inhibits aggressive cancer cell proliferation
    Authors: Prasenjit Mondal; Saswat Mohapatra; Debmalya Bhunia; Prabir Kumar Gharai; Nabanita Mukherjee; Varsha Gupta; Satyajit Ghosh; Surajit Ghosh
    Journal: RSC Medicinal Chemistry (2022)
    DOI: 10.1039/D1MD00324K
  • Title: Synthesis of bifacial Peptide Nucleic Acids with diketopiperazine backbones
    Authors: Not specified
    Journal: Synlett (2022-03-18)
    DOI: 10.1055/a-1802-6873
  • Title: A Small Molecule with Bridged Carbonyl and Tri‐fluoro‐aceto‐phenone Groups Impedes Microtubule Dynamics and Subsequently Triggers Cancer Cell Apoptosis
    Authors: Not specified
    Journal: ChemMedChem (2021-09-06)
    DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100192

Ms. Chanchal Choudhary – Molecular and Developmental Biology – Best Researcher Award

Ms. Chanchal Choudhary - Molecular and Developmental Biology - Best Researcher Award

Jawaharlal Nehru University - India 

Author Profile 

ORCID 

🎓 Early academic pursuits

Chanchal Choudhary’s academic journey began with a deep interest in molecular and developmental biology. She pursued a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Life Sciences at Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi. Her coursework, completed with an impressive CGPA of 8.06, laid a strong foundation in the intricacies of developmental biology. Her PhD research, titled "Understanding the role of TCTP2 in Dictyostelium discoideum," delved into the molecular dynamics of Translationally Controlled Tumor Protein (TCTP) and its critical role in various cellular processes.

🏢 Professional endeavors

Chanchal has amassed extensive experience in independent research and has been at the forefront of high-impact studies. Her work has led to several peer-reviewed publications and presentations at international conferences. This trajectory has not only honed her expertise but also positioned her as a leader in cross-functional projects. She has demonstrated a strong capability to mentor emerging scientists, fostering an environment of growth and innovation within her research teams.

🔬 Contributions and research focus

The cornerstone of Chanchal’s research lies in her in-depth exploration of TCTP2 in Dictyostelium discoideum. Her findings reveal the protein’s pivotal role in autophagy regulation, which is Molecular and Developmental Biology crucial for understanding cell proliferation, survival, and death. By elucidating the functions of TPT2, her research offers valuable insights into cellular dynamics and developmental biology. This study not only advances basic biological knowledge but also underscores the therapeutic potential of targeting TCTP in cancer treatment.

🌟 Accolades and recognition

Chanchal’s scholarly contributions have earned her recognition in the scientific community. Her research findings, published in esteemed journals, reflect her dedication and innovative Molecular and Developmental Biology approach. She has presented her work at prestigious international conferences, where she has been commended for her clarity and depth of knowledge. These accolades highlight her commitment to advancing the field of molecular and developmental biology.

🌍 Impact and influence

Chanchal’s work has significantly impacted the understanding of cellular processes in both basic and applied sciences. Her research on TCTP2 in Dictyostelium discoideum provides a Molecular and Developmental Biology framework for further studies on cell proliferation and autophagy. This has far-reaching implications for cancer research, potentially paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies. Her mentorship and collaborative projects have also influenced the next generation of scientists, fostering a culture of inquiry and discovery.

📚 Legacy and future contributions

Chanchal Choudhary’s legacy is rooted in her groundbreaking research and her dedication to the scientific community. As she continues her career, her future contributions are anticipated to further unravel the complexities of molecular biology and its applications in health and disease. Her ongoing commitment to addressing biological challenges through innovative research promises to leave a lasting impact on the field.

Notable Publications 

  • Title: Analyzing the functions of Translationally controlled tumor protein2 during growth, development and autophagy of Dictyostelium discoideum
    Authors: Chanchal Choudhary, Bhavya Jain, Shweta Saran
    Journal: Experimental Cell Research
    DOI: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2024.114400
    ISSN: 0014-4827
    Publication Date: January 2025
  • Title: In silico analysis of Translationally-Controlled Tumour Proteins of social amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum
    Authors: Chanchal Choudhary, Shweta Saran
    Journal: Biospectra
    DOI: 10.5281/ZENODO.14062730
    Publication Date: January 15, 2024