Kiyoshi Nokihara |  Diagnostic Analytics | Pioneer Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Kiyoshi Nokihara |  Diagnostic Analytics | Pioneer Researcher Award

Hipep Laboratories | Japan

Kiyoshi Nokihara is a distinguished biomedical scientist whose career spans organic chemistry, peptide-protein science and bio-detection instrumentation. After his initial studies in Tokyo, he conducted research in Germany at the Deutsches Wollforschungs­institut an der Technischen Hochschule Aachen (1974-79) focusing on the chemistry and biology of biomolecules such as insulin, followed by work in the U.S. with Finnegan Inc. in Silicon Valley on mass spectrometry of biomolecules. He returned to Japan to investigate brain-gastrointestinal and neuro-peptides as Assistant Professor at the Shizuoka Prefectural University. Subsequent roles included Visiting Professor at the University of Heidelberg (via the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation) and R&D leadership at Shimadzu Corporation leading the Life Science Center, where his team received a national award from the Japanese Agency of Science and Technology. In 2002 he founded HiPep Laboratories as CEO & CSO to develop novel biodetection systems, and since 2017 he holds a Professor position at the First School of Clinical Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital, Nanjing Medical University (China). With over 119 publications, more than ~3,365 citations (according to ResearchGate) and numerous patent applications (130+), his research interests include peptide-protein recognition, structural biology, combinatorial chemistry, immunochemistry, instrumentation and drug-discovery technologies. His work has been recognized by multiple awards and national projects for innovation in life-science instrumentation and biomedical applications. In sum, Dr. Nokihara’s career bridges academic discovery, applied instrumentation and entrepreneurial innovation in peptide/bio-molecular sciences.

Profile : Scopus

Featured Publications

Kiyoshi Nokihara (2025). Development of a new biodetection system independent of known marker molecules using a novel material for microarrays made from amorphous carbon substrates. Analytical Methods.

Kiyoshi Nokihara. Construction of cyclic peptide libraries immobilized on gel-type supports for screening towards discovery of interacting peptides. Book Chapter.

Kiyoshi Nokihara (2024). A high-throughput sequence determination for one cyclic peptide immobilized on a single bead by the one-pot cyanidation followed by MALDI-TOF–MS/MS for discovery of interacting peptides. Analytical Sciences.

Kiyoshi Nokihara (2023). A novel cyclic peptide library immobilized on gel-type beads focusing on rapid construction and characterization for comprehensive drug discovery. Chemical Biology and Drug Design.

Kiyoshi Nokihara (2022). Investigation of the behaviors of molecules exhibiting angiogenic actions. International Journal of Peptide Research and Therapeutics.

Kiyoshi Nokihara (2020). Improved design of peptides exhibiting angiogenic activities for clinical applications. Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry.

 Marco Carati | Real-world Case Studies | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr Marco Carati | Real-world Case Studies - Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna

Prof Dr Marco Carati : Real-world Case Studies

Professional profile:

Early Academic Pursuits:

Prof Dr. Marco Carati's academic journey began with a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Bologna, where he investigated the effects of persistence in temperature on the mechanical properties of the aluminum alloy A356 T6. His exceptional work earned him a high final grade of 106/110.

He furthered his studies with a Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, focusing on Industrial Plants, Materials, and Energetic Systems. His thesis, conducted under the supervision of Prof. Jon Gibbins and Prof. Cesare Saccani, delved into the techno-economic assessment of Post Combustion Carbon Capture and Storage power plants with heat storage. Marco graduated with top honors (110/110 cum laude).

Marco's academic pursuits continued with a Ph.D. in Civil, Chemical, Environmental, and Materials Engineering. His doctoral thesis, titled "Handling of molten Poly(ethylene terephthalate) cylinders for preforms compression molding machines," showcased his expertise in the field. His work was highly regarded, earning him excellent marks in thesis novelty, research methodology, results quality, and knowledge of the research topic.

He diversified his academic experience through an Executive Master in Technology Innovation Management at Bologna Business School, focusing on R&D management. His exceptional performance in courses such as Cost Management, Operations Strategy, and Leadership reflected his commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

Professional Endeavors:

Prof Dr. Marco Carati's professional journey has been marked by significant contributions to the field of engineering and research, particularly in the development of high-tech industrial automatic machines.

He commenced his career as a Researcher at the Industrial Mechanical Systems Engineering Department at the University of Bologna, focusing on CCS and Fossil Fuel Free Power Plants.

His tenure at SACMI, a world-leading company in automatic machines and plants design and manufacturing, included roles such as Stretch Blow Molding Machines R&D Mechanical Designer, Preform Advanced Compression Molding Machines R&D Manager, and PET Mechanical Design Manager. Marco played a pivotal role in solving mechanical technical issues, designing innovative machines, and significantly improving machine reliability and productivity.

He later took on roles as Mold Steels Heat Treatment Optimization R&D Manager and PET Preform Division Mechanical R&D Coordinator, showcasing his ability to lead and coordinate complex research and development activities.

Currently, he serves as the Training Development Manager at SACMI's Corporate Academy, demonstrating his versatility in managing training programs and contributing to the company's revenue streams.

Contributions and Research Focus:

Prof Dr. Marco's research contributions extend across various domains, including mold steels heat treatment optimization, stretch blow molding machines, and preform advanced compression molding machines. His work has resulted in improved machine productivity, reliability, and the design of groundbreaking technologies.

As an Adjunct Professor at the Alma Mater Studiorum University, Marco imparts his knowledge to the next generation of engineers, teaching courses in the Department of Electrical, Electronic, and Information Engineering.

His involvement in international collaborations, R&D projects, and partnerships with top-level universities underscores his commitment to advancing technology and innovation in the engineering field.

Accolades and Recognition:

Prof Dr. Marco Carati's outstanding academic and professional achievements have garnered recognition from various institutions. He is a recipient of grants of merit from the University of Bologna and other European and Italian public and private institutions.

His role as an Adjunct Professor and contributions to the development of new technologies and machines have established him as a respected figure in academia and the industrial sector.

Impact and Influence:

Marco's leadership roles in R&D, mechanical design, and training development at SACMI have contributed to the company's success and prominence in the industry. His ability to lead teams, solve complex technical challenges, and drive innovation has left a lasting impact on the products and processes within the organization.

His involvement in international conferences, seminars, and collaborations with leading research centers has expanded his influence globally, fostering connections with top-level universities and research institutions.

Legacy and Future Contributions:

Prof Dr. Marco Carati's legacy is characterized by his significant contributions to the advancement of technology in the engineering field. As an educator, researcher, and industry leader, his influence will continue to shape the development of high-tech industrial machines and inspire future generations of engineers.

Looking forward, Marco's commitment to innovation and education positions him to make further contributions to the field, whether through continued research, academic mentorship, or leadership in the development of cutting-edge technologies. His multidisciplinary approach, combining hard and soft skills, underscores his potential to drive positive change in the engineering landscape.