Announcements

Conference: The 2026 Annual Congress of the European Association for Cancer Research
Date: 8–11 June 2026
Location: Budapest, Hungary

We are pleased to announce that MDPI will participate in the 2026 Annual Congress of the European Association for Cancer Research (EACR 2026), held in Budapest, Hungary, from 8 to 11 June 2026.

The 2026 Annual Congress of the European Association for Cancer Research (EACR 2026) is a four-day congress dedicated to basic, preclinical and translational cancer research across a wide range of topics. The conference will highlight the latest research and bring together the cancer research community to inspire innovation and build knowledge, connections and collaborations.

The following MDPI journals will be represented at the conference:

• Cancers;
• JPM;
• Current Oncology;
• Onco;
• JCM;
• Cells;
• Diseases;
• Epigenomes;
• CIMB;
• Biologics;
• Life;
• Gastrointestinal Disorders;
• Clinics and Practice;
• DNA;
• IJMS;
• Diagnostics.

If you are planning to attend the above conference, please feel free to start an online conversation with us. Our delegates look forward to meeting you in person at booth #101 and answering any questions that you may have. For more information about the conference, please visit the following website: https://2026.eacr.org/.

We are extremely honored to announce that Dr. Kunj Bihari Gupta has been awarded the Travel Award by Current Issues in Molecular Biology (CIMB, ISSN: 1467-3045)!

This Travel Award will cover the expenses for Dr. Kunj Bihari Gupta to attend the AACR Annual Meeting 2026 held in USA, where he will present his latest research findings and engage in in-depth exchanges and cooperation with foreign experts.

Name: Dr. Kunj Bihari Gupta
Affiliation: Augusta University, USA
Research interests: cell death pathways; oncogenic signaling networks; tumor microenvironment interactions

Dr. Kunj Bihari Gupta is a cancer biologist with a strong research focus on urogenital malignancies. He earned his PhD from the Central University of Punjab (CUPB), India, where he was honored with the prestigious “Chancellor’s Award for Best PhD Student” in recognition of his academic excellence. Since 2022, he has been working as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, Georgia, USA, where he is actively engaged in translational cancer research. His current research is centered on managing multidrug-resistant bladder cancer using bioactive natural products and their chemically optimized derivatives.

Dr. Gupta’s work involves elucidating the molecular mechanisms of action, with particular emphasis on cell death pathways, oncogenic signaling networks, and tumor microenvironment interactions. During his postdoctoral tenure, he has demonstrated exceptional research productivity and scientific rigor, which was formally recognized by the Postdoctoral Office of Augusta University with the honor of the “Outstanding Accomplishments in Postdoctoral Research” in 2025. His long-term goal is to develop effective and innovative therapeutic strategies to overcome drug resistance and improve clinical outcomes in bladder cancer.

The following is a short interview with Dr. Kunj Bihari Gupta:

1. Congratulations on your award! Could you briefly introduce yourself to our readers and tell us a little bit about yourself and your fields of interest?

Thank you so much. My name is Kunj Bihari Gupta, I am a cancer biologist with a primary focus on translational cancer research. I completed my PhD in 2021 from the Central University of Punjab (CUPB), India and since 2022, I joined Augusta University, Georgia, USA, as a Postdoctoral Fellow, where my research interests broadly encompass urogenital malignancies, with a particular emphasis on drug‑resistant bladder cancer. My work focuses on identifying and characterizing bioactive natural products and their chemically optimized derivatives as novel anticancer agents. Specifically, I am interested in elucidating their molecular mechanisms of action, including modulation of cell death pathways, signaling networks, and tumor microenvironment interactions, with the long‑term goal of developing effective therapeutic strategies to overcome multidrug resistance in cancer.

2. How did you hear about this award and how supportive might this kind of award be for researchers?

I am one of the active reviewers of CIMB, so I am familiar with the journal and its initiatives. In addition, I received an email related to this award and after discussing it with my advisor I decided to apply.

These kinds of awards are really important as they provide essential support for early-stage researchers to attend and present research findings to the scientific meeting/conference. Beyond financial assistance, such awards enhance professional visibility, facilitate networking with leading scientists and peers, and offer meaningful recognition of research contributions, all of which are highly motivating and instrumental in career development.

3. Could you briefly describe the conferences you plan to attend through the funding of this award, and discuss the significance of participating in such conferences for your research?

Through the support of this award, I plan to attend the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting 2026 in San Diego, which is one of the premier international conferences in the field of cancer research. The AACR Annual Meeting will allow me to share my research findings with the global community of leading scientists and clinicians, receive critical feedback, and build collaborations that can advance preventive strategies and therapeutic interventions. This opportunity directly supports my long-term goal of developing effective therapeutic strategies in managing drug-resistant bladder cancer.

4. Do you have any other suggestions on how our journal could further support young researchers and the academic community?

In my opinion, this journal is doing great to support young researchers through its various initiatives. That said, there is always room for further improvement. One potential approach could be to increase the visibility of journal initiatives, such as awards, Special Issues, mentored program, etc., through social media platforms like LinkedIn and X (Twitter), which can help reach a broader and more diverse research community. These platforms can play a significant role in improving engagement and awareness. Additionally, if feasible, expanding the number of awardees each year could further encourage and support early-career researchers by recognizing a wider range of high-quality contributions.

5. Do you have any advice for aspiring young researchers looking to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields?

My advice to aspiring young researchers is to think creatively and pursue novel ideas that go beyond what is already established in the literature, as originality is essential for making meaningful scientific contributions. At the same time, it is crucial to uphold the highest ethical standards and keep social welfare and environmental sustainability at the center of all research activities.

I would also encourage young scientists to strive for excellence and rigor in their work, maintain regular discussions with their advisors, and communicate their findings in a timely manner, as scientific progress depends on the rapid and transparent sharing of knowledge. In today’s fast-moving research landscape, where ideas travel quickly, being both innovative and timely is critical for creating a lasting impact in one’s field.

6. What research directions do you think will receive more attention from the academic community in the coming years?

In the coming years, I believe the research community will place increasing emphasis on interdisciplinary and translational research aimed at addressing major global challenges such as human health, sustainability, and climate change. Within cancer biology, research areas including precision medicine, therapeutic resistance, and cancer immunotherapy are likely to receive significant attention, driven by advances in genomics, single-cell and spatial technologies, and artificial intelligence-based data analysis. In addition, RNA-based therapeutics, gene editing technologies such as CRISPR, and systems biology approaches will continue to expand, enabling the development of more targeted, personalized, and effective cancer therapies.

7. Have you encountered any difficulties during your research process? How did you overcome them?

Like most researchers, I have encountered numerous challenges throughout my research journey, as scientific discovery is never a smooth or linear process. These moments of difficulty are not setbacks but opportunities for growth and deeper understanding. When I face such challenges, I remind myself to stay calm, reflect carefully, and approach the problem with patience. I take time to analyze the issue, revisit assumptions and experimental design, and engage in open discussions with my mentors and research advisory group. Diving deeply into the literature and understanding the problem at its core often reveals new perspectives and solutions. Persevering through these challenges is incredibly rewarding—when a solution finally emerges, it brings a profound sense of accomplishment and clarity. Such experiences not only strengthen scientific rigor but also renew enthusiasm, curiosity, and confidence, reinforcing the joy of research and the motivation to keep pushing the boundaries of knowledge.

We are delighted to announce that Dr. Alireza Shoari has been awarded the Current Issues in Molecular Biology (CIMB, ISSN: 1467-3045) Travel Award.

This Travel Award will cover the expenses for Dr. Alireza Shoari to attend the 2026 ASBMB Annual Meeting, held in the USA, where he will present his latest research findings and engage in in-depth exchanges and collaboration with international experts.

Name: Dr. Alireza Shoari
Affiliation: Mayo Clinic, USA
Research interests: cancer; matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs); yeast surface display; protein engineering; proteases inhibitors; targeted therapy; extracellular matrix

Dr. Alireza Shoari is an Assistant Professor of Cancer Biology at Mayo Clinic Florida, where his research focuses on cancer biology, biochemistry, and protein engineering. His work is centered on understanding how proteases contribute to tumor progression and on developing selective biologic inhibitors that can be used as more precise therapeutic strategies in cancer. In particular, he studies matrix metalloproteinases and their roles in tumor invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis, and the remodeling of the tumor microenvironment.

Dr. Alireza Shoari has a strong interest in translational research that bridges fundamental biochemical mechanisms with therapeutic development. His research combines molecular and cellular approaches with protein engineering platforms to design and evaluate targeted inhibitors, including protein-based therapeutics, for cancer-associated proteases. Through this work, he aims to develop more selective and effective strategies that may help overcome the limitations of broader anticancer treatments.

In addition to his research activities, he is actively engaged in the academic community through his contributions to scientific publishing, peer review, and editorial services. He has served as a reviewer and editor for MDPI journals and several others, reflecting his commitment to supporting scientific communication and the advancement of research. More broadly, his career is driven by the goal of contributing to innovative, mechanism-based approaches for cancer treatment.

The following is a short interview with Dr. Alireza Shoari:

1. Congratulations on your award! Could you briefly introduce yourself to our readers and tell us a little bit about yourself and your fields of interest?
Thank you for the opportunity. My name is Alireza Shoari, and I am an Assistant Professor of Cancer Biology at Mayo Clinic in Florida. My research background is in biochemistry, cancer biology, and protein engineering, with a particular focus on proteases and their roles in tumor progression. My main fields of interest include matrix metalloproteinases, tumor microenvironment biology, and the development of selective biologic inhibitors, especially protein and peptide-based therapeutics, for cancer treatment. Through my work, I am interested in combining biochemical, cellular, and translational approaches to better understand cancer progression and to develop more precise therapeutic strategies.

2. How did you hear about this award and how supportive might this kind of award be for researchers?
I learned about this award through my ongoing involvement with MDPI, as I have been serving as a reviewer and also as a Guest Editor for MDPI journals. Because of this connection, I was already familiar with the journal and the opportunities it provides to support researchers. Awards like this are very meaningful, especially for early-career scientists, because they help support conference attendance, scientific exchange, and networking with other researchers in the field. In addition, this kind of recognition increases the visibility of our work and provides encouragement to continue contributing to research and to the scientific community.

3. Could you briefly describe the conferences you plan to attend through the funding of this award, and discuss the significance of participating in such conferences for your research?
I plan to use this award to support my participation in the 2026 Annual Meeting of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB) in Washington, DC. This conference is an important opportunity for me to interact with researchers working in biochemistry, molecular biology, and related translational areas that are closely connected to my research. Participating in such a meeting is highly valuable because it allows me to present my work, learn about recent scientific advances, receive feedback from experts, and build professional connections that may lead to future collaborations. It also helps increase the visibility of my research and keeps me informed about new directions and technologies in the field.

4. Do you have any other suggestions on how our journal could further support young researchers and the academic community?
I think the CIMB journal is already making a valuable contribution by offering initiatives such as travel awards and recognition programs for researchers. These opportunities are especially helpful for young scientists because they provide both encouragement and practical support for professional development. One possible way to further support early-career researchers could be to expand mentoring-oriented activities, such as interviews, editorial guidance, or workshops on scientific writing and peer review. Overall, I truly appreciate the effort the journal puts into supporting the academic community and creating opportunities for researchers at different career stages.

5. Do you have any advice for aspiring young researchers looking to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields?
My advice to young researchers is to stay curious, work consistently, and try to focus on questions that can lead to something truly new in their field. It is important to aim for high-quality work, but also to move forward with confidence and share your findings in a timely manner. In research, ideas develop quickly, so originality, persistence, and the ability to communicate your results clearly are all essential for making a meaningful impact.

6. What research directions do you think will receive more attention from the academic community in the coming years?
I believe that research areas with strong translational potential will receive increasing attention in the coming years, especially those that connect basic biological discovery with clinical application. In cancer research, I expect growing interest in precision therapeutics, immunotherapy, tumor microenvironment biology, and the development of highly selective biologic agents. More broadly, interdisciplinary approaches that combine molecular biology, protein engineering, computational methods, and advanced experimental models will likely play an increasingly important role in addressing complex biomedical problems.

The journal Current Issues in Molecular Biology (CIMB, ISSN: 1467-3045) is proud to present the winner of the CIMB Outstanding Reviewer Award, Dr. Thi Sinh Vo! We would like to express our profound gratitude to Dr. Thi Sinh Vo for her invaluable contributions to the peer-review process of the journal.

Name: Dr. Thi Sinh Vo
Affiliation: Sungkyunkwan University, Korea
Research interests: design, synthesis, and engineering of advanced functional materials, particularly nanocomposites and colloidal systems for sensing devices and environmental applications

Dr. Thi Sinh Vo is currently a postdoctoral researcher at Sungkyunkwan University, specializing in materials science with a focus on polymer–composite materials. She obtained her PhD in mechanical engineering from Sungkyunkwan University, following an MS in chemical engineering from Daegu University and a BS in materials science from Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City. Her academic training across materials science and engineering has enabled her to develop a strong interdisciplinary foundation spanning synthesis, characterization, and functional applications of advanced materials.

Her research focuses on the design, synthesis, and engineering of advanced functional materials, particularly nanocomposites and colloidal systems for sensing devices and environmental applications. Her previous work has contributed to the development of self-healing polymers, microcapsules, and composite membranes for dye removal, with an emphasis on interfacial phenomena and structure–property relationships. She has also explored functional polymer modifications and nanostructured systems to enhance material performance and durability.

Currently, her research is directed toward nano-enhanced composite membranes, 3D porous architectures, and advanced sensing platforms, including electromechanical, electrochemical, SERS-based, and FET-based devices for detecting biomolecules and environmental contaminants. Her work particularly highlights the role of nano–bio interfaces and molecular-level interactions in improving sensitivity, selectivity, and reliability.

Dr. Vo has authored over 40 publications and has contributed extensively as a peer reviewer. Her interdisciplinary research integrates materials science, chemistry, and molecular-level understanding to address critical challenges in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and sustainable technologies.

The following is a short interview with Dr. Thi Sinh Vo:

1. Could you give a brief introduction of yourself to the readers? Could you introduce your current research direction and provide an update on your progress?

My research background is rooted in the design and development of advanced polymer and composite materials, with a particular emphasis on functionality and interfacial phenomena. In my earlier work, I focused on self-healing polymers, microcapsule systems, composite membranes, and porous sponges, where I investigated how material structure and interfacial interactions influence performance and durability.

Building on this foundation, my current research direction explores nano-enhanced composite membranes, 3D porous architectures, and active nanocomposites for applications in sensing and environmental remediation. A central theme of my work is the role of colloidal systems and nano–bio interfaces, particularly how molecular-level interactions govern sensitivity, selectivity, and stability in detecting biomolecules and contaminants.

At present, I am working on integrating advanced materials with sensing platforms such as electromechanical, electrochemical, SERS-based, and FET-based devices, aiming to develop highly responsive and reliable systems. Through this interdisciplinary approach, I seek to bridge fundamental materials science with molecular-level understanding and real-world applications in healthcare and environmental monitoring.

2. What prompted you to become a reviewer for the journal CIMB?

I was motivated to become a reviewer for CIMB because I strongly believe in the importance of peer review as a cornerstone of scientific quality and integrity. In rapidly evolving interdisciplinary fields, particularly those at the interface of materials science, molecular biology, and bio-related applications, rigorous evaluation is essential to ensure that research findings are both reliable and meaningful.

CIMB provides an excellent platform for publishing studies that integrate molecular-level insights with functional applications, which closely aligns with my research background. Given my experience in colloidal systems, nano–bio interfaces, and advanced sensing technologies, I felt that I could contribute valuable and constructive feedback to authors.

Moreover, reviewing allows me to stay engaged with emerging research trends while supporting the scientific community. I see it not only as a professional responsibility but also as an opportunity to facilitate the dissemination of high-quality, impactful research.

3. What was your experience as a reviewer for the journal CIMB like?

My experience as a reviewer for CIMB has been highly positive, both intellectually and professionally. The journal consistently publishes interdisciplinary research that connects molecular-level understanding with practical applications, which I find particularly engaging and relevant to my expertise.

One aspect I especially appreciate is the efficiency and organization of the editorial process. This allows reviewers to focus on providing thoughtful and constructive evaluations within a clear framework. The manuscripts I have reviewed often involve complex systems, such as functional nanomaterials or bio-related platforms, requiring careful assessment of both experimental design and mechanistic interpretation.

Through this process, I have had the opportunity to contribute to improving the clarity, rigor, and overall quality of submitted work. At the same time, reviewing has strengthened my own critical thinking skills, particularly in evaluating how well studies connect materials design with biological or molecular mechanisms.

4. What do you think are the key elements to writing a high-quality review report? What kind of review is truly excellent?

A high-quality review report should be objective, well-structured, and constructive. It should provide a balanced evaluation of the manuscript by assessing its scientific validity, originality, and overall significance to the field.

Importantly, a good review does not simply point out weaknesses but offers clear, actionable suggestions that help authors improve their work. This includes commenting on experimental design, data interpretation, and the clarity of the presentation, as well as identifying areas where additional evidence or explanation may be needed.

An excellent review goes a step further by helping authors strengthen the scientific contribution of their study, particularly in terms of methodological rigor and the clarity of molecular or mechanistic insights. It should also emphasize reproducibility and consider how the findings contribute to the broader scientific community. Ultimately, a strong review supports both the authors and the advancement of the field.

5. Based on your extensive peer review experience, could you share some common problems authors encounter when writing papers, and how to make papers more readable and engaging?

One common challenge I observe in many manuscripts is the lack of a clear connection between experimental results and the underlying molecular or mechanistic insights. Authors often present sophisticated materials or systems but do not fully explain how structural features or interfacial properties influence performance.

Another issue is insufficient detail in methodology, which can limit reproducibility and reduce the credibility of the work. In some cases, the discussion section does not adequately interpret the results or relate them to existing literature, making it difficult to assess the novelty and impact.

To improve readability and engagement, authors should clearly define their research question, highlight the novelty of their work, and present their findings in a logical and coherent structure. Emphasizing structure–property relationships and providing intuitive explanations alongside technical details can greatly enhance clarity. Ultimately, effective scientific writing should make complex ideas accessible without compromising depth.

6. Has peer review ever helped you achieve a breakthrough in your own research?

Yes, peer review has played a significant role in shaping and improving my own research. By critically evaluating a wide range of manuscripts, I have gained deeper insights into experimental design, data analysis, and the presentation of scientific results.

Reviewing interdisciplinary studies has helped me better understand how to connect materials design with molecular-level mechanisms and practical applications. This has influenced the way I approach my own research, encouraging me to think more critically about reproducibility, validation, and the broader impact of my work.

In addition, exposure to diverse research approaches and methodologies has inspired new ideas and perspectives. Overall, the peer review process has contributed to making my research more rigorous, transparent, and impactful.

7. How do you balance encouraging innovation with ensuring methodological rigor in your peer reviews? Can you provide an example?

Balancing innovation with methodological rigor is essential, especially in interdisciplinary research involving advanced materials and molecular systems. While innovative ideas are critical for scientific progress, they must be supported by robust experimental design, appropriate controls, and sufficient validation.

In my reviews, I aim to encourage novel and creative approaches while carefully evaluating whether the conclusions are supported by reliable data and consistent with underlying mechanisms. For example, when assessing new sensing platforms based on nanomaterials or colloidal systems, I often recommend additional validation experiments, control studies, or comparisons with established methods.

This approach ensures that innovative concepts are strengthened rather than discouraged. By maintaining this balance, peer review can promote both scientific creativity and reproducibility, ultimately contributing to more impactful and trustworthy research outcomes.

Our portfolio of journals available for publishing up-to-date research in immediate open access format has been further expanded. In the first quarter of 2026, nine new journals released their inaugural issues and three transferred journals released their first issue as part of MDPI, covering the subjects of clinical medicine, chemistry, computer science & mathematics, engineering, environment & ecology, and social sciences & psychology.

We extend our gratitude to the Editors-in-Chief, Associate Editors, and Editorial Board Members who will shape the future course of these brand-new journals. Each journal is dedicated to upholding strong editorial standards through a thorough peer review process, ensuring impactful open access scholarship.

Please feel free to browse and discover more about the new journals below.

We would like to thank everyone who has supported the development of open access publishing. If you would like to create a new journal, you are welcome to send an application here or contact the New Journal Committee (newjournal-committee@mdpi.com).

We are delighted to announce that nominations are now open for the 2026 Tu Youyou Award. Named after Nobel Laureate Tu Youyou, whose discovery of artemisinin has saved millions of lives, this award recognizes researchers whose work advances the fields of natural products chemistry and medicinal chemistry, while also contributing to human health.

Prize

– CHF 100,000;
– A medal;
– A certificate.

The monetary prize will be shared equally should there be multiple recipients.

Who May Be Nominated?

– Scientists with outstanding achievements and contributions in the fields of natural products chemistry and medicinal chemistry.

Nominees must be individuals; team or group nominations are not permitted. Nominations are valid only for the current award cycle.

Who May Submit a Nomination?

– The director of the nominee’s host research institution or recognized scientists within the field.

Self-nominations will not be considered.

Nomination Materials

– A biographical sketch;
– A detailed description of the nominee’s contributions;
– 5–10 representative academic publications;
– A list of academic honors, awards, and funded projects;
– A nomination letter signed by two nominators.

How to Submit?

Submit nominations online via the following link: https://tuyouyouprize.org/nomination

Important Dates

– Nomination Deadline: 31 October 2026
– Winner Announcement: March 2027

For further information, please visit the Tu Youyou Award website (https://tuyouyouprize.org/). For any inquiries, please contact the Tu Youyou Award Team at tuyouyouaward@mdpi.com.

We are pleased to announce that Prof. Dr. Chongshan Dai has been appointed Associate Editor in Current Issues in Molecular Biology (CIMB, ISSN: 1467-3045). We look forward to his contribution to the continued success of the journal.

Prof. Dr. Chongshan Dai is a Professor and PhD Supervisor at China Agricultural University, and he completed his postdoctoral research at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, USA. He joined China Agricultural University in 2021 and was selected for the National Young Top-notch Talents Program in 2023. His research focuses on clinically highly drug-resistant pathogenic bacteria and host immunity, encompassing both basic and applied research. He presides over a number of national-level research projects, including those funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and the National Key R&D Program of China. To date, he has published more than 100 papers as the first or corresponding author in prestigious journals such as PNAS, Cell Reports, and Environment International, among which 3 are ESI Highly Cited Papers and 1 is an F1000 Recommended Paper. His publications have received over 4,500 citations, and he holds an h-index of 37. He has filed 24 national invention patents (13 of which have been authorized) and 2 PCT patents.
CIMB is honored to publish this interview with Prof. Dr. Chongshan Dai, in which he affirmed the remarkable achievements of CIMB in recent years, provided guiding insights for the journal's long-term development, and shared profound perspectives on academic research.

The following is an interview with Prof. Dr. Chongshan Dai:

1. What sparked your interest in CIMB and motivated you to take on the role of its Associate Editor?
CIMB has published a wealth of outstanding research papers, particularly in the field of molecular pharmacology. I spend time reading the journal's publications every week, as they serve as a valuable source of new ideas and inspiration for my own research. Additionally, I believe that joining CIMB as an Associate Editor not only helps elevate my academic influence but also allows me to contribute to the journal's development. More importantly, this platform enables me to promote the latest research advances in veterinary pharmacology, helping to raise broader awareness of veterinary science and the discipline of veterinary pharmacology itself.

2. Among your various professional roles, which one do you consider the most important and fulfilling?
Looking back at all my professional roles, the time when I was a student remains the most cherished for me. Back then, my sole focus was on conducting solid research with dedication—no need to worry about research funding, no need to navigate interpersonal relationships within a team, and no sleepless nights over the research progress of others. Now, I have transitioned from a researcher who only needed to delve deep into his own small research niche to a graduate supervisor who guides and supports young researchers. This identity shift means far more than a simple change in title; it represents a complete reconstruction of my perspective on academic research.
I am acutely aware that my responsibilities now extend far beyond my own research progress—they encompass the most precious years of youth for a group of young scholars. They come to me with a passion for academic research and place their trust in me. It is only now that I truly understand the profound thoughts and sense of responsibility behind the seemingly casual words of “support and encouragement” from Academician Jianzhong Shen back in my student days. The phrase “the weight of great responsibility” is no longer an abstract concept to me; it is reflected in the careful consideration I put into every research discussion with my students, the anxiety I feel when they encounter research bottlenecks, and the in-depth thinking I devote to planning their future careers. The pressure is real—it permeates every ordinary moment: worrying about the feasibility of a research direction, caring about my students' physical and mental well-being, and questioning whether I am capable enough to be a reliable backstop for them. This kind of pressure is far more complex than the anxiety I felt when I failed to obtain experimental data as a student, because it involves the lives and futures of others. Whenever the weight feels overwhelming, I reflect on my own academic journey: how Professor Xilong Xiao's teachings of “delving deep into research” shaped me, and how Academician Shen's guidance illuminated my path. I then realize that this pressure is actually the price of passing the academic torch, and also a testament to this inheritance. The journey from being a mentee to a mentor is arduous, but every step is meaningful and worthwhile.

3. Scientific research often brings immense pressure, affecting both graduate students and their supervisors. What advice do you have for stress management in academic research?
It is true that many researchers, especially faculty members, are under tremendous research pressure today—this pressure stems not only from various institutional evaluations at universities, but also from the responsibilities of supporting their families. Therefore, I advise young faculty members to arrange their time rationally and maintain an open mind when facing such pressure. For graduate students, I encourage them to seize this invaluable opportunity to conduct high-quality research under the guidance of their supervisors, broaden their academic horizons, and strive to be pioneers in their research fields.

4. Throughout your academic career, which people or experiences have had the most profound impact on you?
In my academic journey, I first express my deepest gratitude to my supervisor, Professor Xilong Xiao. His teaching that “one must delve deep into research” has been a constant guiding principle for me. I also owe a great deal to Academician Jianzhong Shen, the leader of our research team. Academician Shen has always provided me with unwavering support and encouragement. Despite his extremely busy schedule, he never neglects to care for every young faculty member in the team. He is like a lighthouse, standing at the forefront of the discipline and guiding our research direction. Whenever I encounter research bottlenecks or fall into self-doubt, Academician Shen can always perceive it keenly and help me cut through the confusion with his broad and insightful academic perspective. His support and encouragement are never empty words; they are translated into concrete guidance, including full support in terms of research resources, and his constant affirmation that “you can do it”. It is this strong backing from the core of the team that has given me the courage to forge ahead in the turbulent sea of scientific research.

5. In your opinion, what is the key element of a high-quality research paper? Is it groundbreaking findings with great scientific value, or an ingenious research design combined with proficient writing skills?
I believe that an ingenious research design is crucial for a high-quality research paper. Groundbreaking findings with great scientific value are undoubtedly the ultimate pursuit of every researcher, yet such breakthroughs are often serendipitous—they require the right time, place, and people, and even a touch of luck. An ingenious research design, however, is a solid foundation that we can actively cultivate and master. A sophisticated research design can endow an ordinary research phenomenon with new explanatory power and make an understudied research direction full of potential through a unique perspective. More often than not, great scientific discoveries do not stem from the innovation of research tools, but from a transformative shift in research perspective.

6. What advice do you have for young researchers in this field?
Based on my own academic experience, I would like to offer the following suggestions for young scholars:

• Arrange your time rationally to cope with various pressures with a relaxed mindset.
• Continuously learn the latest advances in the field to enhance your professional competence. In particular, against the backdrop of the profound impact of artificial intelligence on our discipline, opportunities and challenges coexist. It is therefore extremely important to learn how to adapt to and integrate artificial intelligence into research to avoid being left behind.
• Balance work and rest appropriately. Always remember that health is the foundation of all endeavors.

We are pleased to announce the winner of the 2025 Best Cover Award. The winner of the Best Cover Award will receive CHF 500.

The best cover is as follows:
“Meroterpenoids from Terrestrial and Marine Fungi: Promising Agents for Neurodegenerative Disorders—An Updated Review”
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(2), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47020096
by Daniela Dimitrova, Simeonka Dimitrova, Gabriela Kehayova and Stela Dragomanova
Issue 2 (February 2025)

Congratulations to the winner for the excellent research!

We would like to thank everyone for their participation.

As a pioneer in open access publishing, MDPI maintains rigorous publication standards. This mission relies on the dedication and expertise of our reviewers, who invest their time and knowledge to ensure the quality and integrity of the research we publish.

In 2025, over 209,000 reviewers contributed to the peer-review process at MDPI, providing more than 1.3 million review reports for our journals. To express our gratitude, MDPI’s Reviewer Recognition Program highlights reviewers across over 400 journals, featuring those who have assessed at least one manuscript and agreed to be acknowledged.

In addition, MDPI has identified its Top 1000 Reviewers of 2024 to recognize those whose expertise, dedication, and thoughtful evaluations were particularly outstanding.

Many journals have also established Outstanding Reviewer Awards to honor our reviewers’ commitment to publication excellence. Together with the Exceptional Reviewer List, we showcase the importance of reviewers’ work and their time and dedication.

These initiatives serve to express our deepest appreciation and gratitude towards the whole reviewer community. In recognition of their contributions, we also welcome new researchers to join this community. If you would like to contribute to open access publishing, learn more about the reviewers’ benefits and sign up to join us.