ELENI ALBANI | Health | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. ELENI ALBANI | Health | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. ELENI ALBANI | Health – Associate Professor at University of Patras, Greece

Dr. Eleni N. Albani is a dedicated academic and healthcare researcher whose work bridges the disciplines of pediatric nursing, primary health care, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Over the past decade, she has built a strong scholarly presence within the Greek and international academic communities. With numerous collaborations and a growing number of citations, Dr. Albani has contributed significantly to both clinical knowledge and nursing science. Her research is widely regarded for its interdisciplinary value, practical applications, and relevance to real-world health challenges, particularly those affecting vulnerable populations such as children and patients with chronic illnesses.

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Education:

Dr. Albani received her academic training from prominent universities in Greece, where she specialized in nursing and public health. Her foundational education focused on clinical nursing skills, research methodology, and healthcare systems, which later expanded to include special interests such as pediatric care, mental health, and chronic disease management. Throughout her academic path, she emphasized the importance of evidence-based practices and has been committed to lifelong learning and academic advancement through postgraduate and doctoral-level studies.

Experience:

With years of professional experience in academic nursing, Dr. Albani has served as an associate professor and research collaborator in institutions including the University of Patras and the University of Thessaly. Her career includes active roles in teaching undergraduate and postgraduate students, conducting research projects, and publishing in peer-reviewed journals. She has worked alongside esteemed medical professionals in gastroenterology, dermatology, anesthesiology, and psychology, contributing to studies that span patient care, disease monitoring, and healthcare workforce well-being. Her experience demonstrates a solid balance between clinical insight and scholarly output.

Research Interests:

Dr. Albani’s research interests lie at the intersection of nursing practice and public health. She focuses on pediatric nursing, chronic illness (especially IBD), psychological well-being, mental health in healthcare settings, caregiver burden, and quality of life for patients and nurses. Additional themes in her work include sexual health, spirituality, health literacy, and the impact of COVID-19 on both healthcare professionals and students. Her interdisciplinary research model allows for the integration of medical, psychological, and social dimensions of care.

Awards:

While specific awards have not been listed, Dr. Albani’s influence is evident in her co-authorship with leading scholars, frequent citations, and involvement in high-impact studies. Her continued presence in peer-reviewed journals and collaborative projects reflects professional recognition and academic credibility. Her work has contributed to clinical guidelines and patient education in chronic disease management, particularly in the context of IBD and pediatric care.

Publications 📚:

  1. 📘 Inflammatory bowel disease and sexual function in male and female patients: an update on evidence in the past ten years (2015, Journal of Crohn’s and Colitis) – Cited by 63. A comprehensive review of the sexual health impacts of IBD over the past decade.
  2. 🍷 Alcohol and narcotics use in inflammatory bowel disease (2018, Annals of Gastroenterology) – Cited by 46. Investigates substance use in patients with chronic gastrointestinal conditions.
  3. 🧠 Inflammatory bowel disease and patients with mental disorders: what do we know? (2021, Journal of Clinical Medicine Research) – Cited by 31. Links between mental health disorders and IBD outcomes.
  4. 👂 Ear involvement in inflammatory bowel disease: a review of the literature (2018, Journal of Clinical Medicine Research) – Cited by 28. A rare topic exploring ENT complications in IBD patients.
  5. 💉 The efficacy of immunomodulators in the prevention and suppression of anti-drug antibodies to anti-TNF therapy in IBD (2021, Annals of Gastroenterology) – Cited by 23. Focuses on pharmacological management of IBD.
  6. 😷 The impact of mental health, subjective happiness and religious coping on the quality of life of nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic (2022, Wiadomości Lekarskie) – Cited by 11. COVID-era research on nursing students’ mental health.
  7. 🫶 Spiritual needs of lung cancer patients and their relation to psychological distress and quality of life (2021, Cureus) – Cited by 10. Addresses emotional and spiritual support in oncology nursing.

Conclusion:

Dr. Eleni N. Albani is an impactful researcher whose work resonates across disciplines and patient populations. Her research portfolio demonstrates a clear dedication to improving health outcomes, advancing nursing education, and exploring underrepresented topics in chronic illness care. With solid academic metrics—315 citations, h-index 10, i10-index 11—and a focused commitment to collaborative science, she is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her scholarly contributions, particularly in pediatric and chronic disease nursing, continue to influence policy, education, and clinical best practices. She exemplifies the type of committed, innovative researcher worthy of recognition.

 

 

 

Kwame Darkwah | Public Health | Young Scientist Award

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Mr. Kwame Darkwah | Public Health | Young Scientist Award

Graduate Student | University of Cape Coast | Ghana

Darkwah Kwame Osei is an accomplished researcher with a deep focus on neurodegenerative diseases, neuroimmune interactions, and drug discovery, particularly within the context of the gut-brain axis. Currently, he is pursuing an MSc in Molecular Biology at Jeonbuk National University, South Korea, where his research explores the roles of nitric oxide synthase in Drosophila melanogaster. Osei has a robust academic background, having completed his BSc in Medical Laboratory Science from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana. His work has garnered attention through various publications and presentations in notable journals and academic conferences.

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Education
Osei’s educational journey includes a Master’s degree in Molecular Biology from Jeonbuk National University, South Korea (2024), where his thesis focuses on understanding the functional roles of nitric oxide synthase in Drosophila melanogaster. He also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science from the University of Cape Coast, Ghana (2015). His undergraduate research project investigated the use of the RIFLE criteria in diagnosing acute kidney injury among ICU patients, guided by Dr. Richard K.D. Ephraim.

Experience
With extensive research and teaching experience, Osei has contributed significantly to academic life. As a Graduate Research Volunteer at Jeonbuk National University, he helped design plasmids and taught molecular biology techniques such as PCR primer design and gel electrophoresis to undergraduate students. Osei also served as an Undergraduate Research Assistant at the University of Cape Coast, where he supervised student research and assisted in teaching various medical laboratory science courses. His professional experience extends to a role as a Medical Laboratory Scientist at Baiden-Ghartey Hospital, where he led the laboratory department and performed critical diagnostic testing.

Research Interests
Osei’s research interests lie in the intersection of neurodegenerative diseases and neuromodulation, particularly how the gut-brain axis and neuroimmune interactions influence disease processes. His work aims to uncover mechanisms in the brain and immune system that could potentially lead to the development of therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, he is deeply involved in drug discovery and development, seeking to explore new avenues for treating such complex conditions.

Awards
Osei has earned several prestigious awards, including the Global Korea Scholarship Program (GKSP) for his graduate studies in South Korea (2021-2024). He was also recognized as the Best Graduating Student (2nd rank) in the Medical Laboratory Science Department at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana, a testament to his academic excellence and dedication.

Publications
Osei has contributed to several impactful publications in renowned scientific journals, focusing on health diagnostics and disease mechanisms. His notable publications include:

  1. Gyamfi, N. K. A., Osei, G. N., Brenyah, R. C., Agyemang, L. D., Ampomah, P., Darkwah, K. O., … & Ephraim, R. K. (2024). Assessing Concordance of Results: A Comparative Study of the Manual and Automated Urinalysis Methods. BioMed Research International, 2024(1), 6963423.
  2. Ephraim, R. K., Ativi, E., Ashie, S. A., Abaka-Yawson, A., & Darkwah, K. O. (2023). Assessment of estimated low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c) equations: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Bulletin of the National Research Centre, 47(1), 71.
  3. Ephraim, R. K., Baah, S. K., Sakyi, S. A., Darkwah, K. O., & Abaka-Yawson, A. (2021). Hyperglycaemia in newly diagnosed pulmonary tuberculosis patients: a cross-sectional study of the Agona District Hospital. Annals of Medical Laboratory Science, 1(2), 50-58.
  4. Bedu-Addo, K., Ephraim, R. K., Tanoe-Blay, C., Ahenkorah-Fondjo, L., Darkwah, K. O., Ephraim, M., … & Abaka-Yawson, A. (2020). Prevalence and associated factors of fetal macrosomia in a rural community in Ghana. Cogent Medicine, 7(1), 1746602.
  5. Anthony, R., Brenyah, R. C., Darkwah, K. O., Egbule, B. C., Ninnoni, J. P., Okantey, C., & Ephraim, R. K. (2019). Hepatitis B Infection in People Living with HIV/AIDS; A Retrospective Study of the Effia Nkwanta Regional Hospital. Journal of Advances in Medicine and Medical Research, 29(8): 1-9.
  6. Ephraim, R., Brenyah, R., Osei, B., Anto, E., Basing, A., & Darkwah, K. (2017). Demographic, clinical, and therapeutic characteristics of children aged 0–15 years with nephrotic syndrome: a retrospective study of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana. Asian Journal of Medicine and Health, 5(2), 1-9.
  7. Adu, P., Dogfobaare, I., Kuuzie, P., Darkwah, K., Twum, B., & Ephraim, R. (2017). No association between Helicobacter pylori infection and type 2 diabetes mellitus; a case-control study in the North-Western part of Ghana. Asian Journal of Medicine and Health, 2(4), 1-7.

Conclusion
Darkwah Kwame Osei’s contributions to the fields of molecular biology, neurodegenerative diseases, and medical laboratory science have made a significant impact on both academic and practical applications. His leadership skills, extensive research, and teaching experience exemplify his dedication to advancing scientific knowledge. As he continues his studies and professional journey, Osei is well-poised to make further strides in understanding complex health issues, especially in the areas of neurology and immunology. With a firm commitment to both education and scientific research, he remains an influential figure in his field.

Adriano Lubanga | Antimicrobial Resistance | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. Adriano Lubanga | Antimicrobial Resistance | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Adriano Lubanga | Antimicrobial Resistance – Clinical Research Education and Management Services, Malawi

Dr. Adriano Focus Lubanga is a dedicated medical doctor and public health researcher with extensive expertise in combating infectious diseases prevalent in tropical regions. His work spans antimicrobial resistance, vaccine-preventable diseases, neglected tropical diseases, and the interplay between human, animal, and environmental health. He also focuses on the impact of climate change on disease transmission in resource-limited settings. An advocate for mentorship, Dr. Lubanga supports early-career researchers in advancing their academic and professional goals.

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Education

Dr. Lubanga earned his Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from the University of Malawi, College of Medicine, graduating in January 2023. His foundational education was completed at Mzimba Secondary School, where he achieved his Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE) in 2015.

Experience

Dr. Lubanga serves as the Research Program Manager at Clinical Research Education and Management Services (CREAMS Mw) and as a Senior Medical Officer at Kamuzu Central Hospital. His roles at CREAMS include overseeing research operations, fostering collaborations, securing ethical clearances, and leading data analysis and manuscript preparation. At Kamuzu Central Hospital, he provides patient care in various departments, including medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and obstetrics, while also conducting follow-ups and patient counseling.

Dr. Lubanga has held significant roles in global health initiatives, including contributing to the Malawian Ministry of Health’s One Health Technical Working Group. He has also collaborated with international organizations to evaluate the effectiveness of healthcare interventions in Malawi.

Research Interests

Dr. Lubanga’s research focuses on antimicrobial resistance, neglected tropical diseases, and the effects of climate change on infectious diseases. He also investigates public health policies, community involvement in disease control, and the socio-economic determinants of healthcare access. His interdisciplinary approach often integrates a “One Health” perspective to tackle health challenges holistically.

Awards

Dr. Lubanga was honored with the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene Early Career Grant Program (ECGP) award in 2024. His recognized project, Toward a Typhoid-Free Community, evaluates public knowledge and practices in preventing typhoid disease in high-risk urban and peri-urban areas of Malawi.

Publications

Lubanga AF, et al. Addressing the re-emergence and resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases in Africa: A health equity perspective. Hum Vaccin Immunother. 2024; 20(1):2375081. DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2024.2375081.

Lubanga AF, et al. Tackling antimicrobial resistance in sub-Saharan Africa: Challenges and opportunities. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther. 2024; 22(6):379-386. DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2024.2362270.

Lubanga AF, et al. Beyond RTS,S malaria vaccine piloting to adoption: A new hope in the fight against vector-borne disease. Frontiers in Tropical Diseases. 2024. DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2024.1387078.

Lubanga AF, et al. Exploring community involvement in reducing neglected tropical diseases in Malawi. Res Rep Trop Med. 2024; 15:51-58. DOI: 10.2147/RRTM.S448425.

Lubanga AF, et al. Lessons from Malawi’s deadliest cholera outbreak in two decades. Int J Surg: Global Health. 2023; 6(5):e0300. DOI: 10.1097/GH9.0000000000000300.

Lubanga AF, et al. Characteristics of tuberculosis patients in a rural district of Malawi. J Clin Res Med. 2024; 7(1):1-4.

Kangoma M, Lubanga AF, et al. Mental health impact of Tropical Cyclone Freddy on Malawian women. Int J Surg: Global Health. 2023; 6(5):e0306.

Conclusion

Dr. Adriano Focus Lubanga’s work exemplifies a commitment to public health, global health equity, and interdisciplinary research. His contributions to infectious disease control, antimicrobial resistance, and One Health initiatives highlight his impact on health systems in Malawi and beyond. Recognized for his innovative approach and dedication, Dr. Lubanga continues to be a vital figure in addressing global health challenges.

Manoj Sharma | Public Health | Excellence in Research

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Prof. Dr. Manoj Sharma | Public Health | Excellence in Research

Professor & Chair at University of Nevada, Las Vegas, United States

Dr. Manoj Sharma is an accomplished public health expert and educator with over 35 years of experience in the field. He currently serves as a tenured Full Professor and Chair of the Department of Social & Behavioral Health at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) School of Public Health. In his career, Dr. Sharma has trained thousands of professionals across diverse health disciplines, including physicians, dietitians, and health educators. His work in health behavior, public health education, and leadership has earned him recognition as one of the top public health scientists globally.

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Education

Dr. Sharma holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Preventive Medicine and Public Health from The Ohio State University, a Master of Science in Community Health from Minnesota State University, Mankato, and a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) from the University of Delhi. He also holds additional postgraduate qualifications, including a Postgraduate Certificate in Health & Family Welfare Management and a Postgraduate Diploma in Training & Development from premier institutions in India. His diverse education has provided him with a strong foundation in public health theory and practice.

Experience

Throughout his career, Dr. Sharma has held various full-time and adjunct faculty positions at 13 national and international universities, including The Ohio State University, the University of Cincinnati, and Southern Illinois University. Beyond academia, he has provided leadership in public health agencies and non-profit organizations at the local, state, and federal levels. His roles at institutions such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the World Health Organization (WHO) have allowed him to contribute significantly to public health policy and practice on a global scale.

Research Interests

Dr. Sharma’s research focuses on theory-driven and evidence-based health behavior change interventions. His work spans various areas, including obesity prevention, mental health, stress-coping mechanisms, and integrative mind-body interventions like mindfulness-based stress reduction and yoga. He is also heavily involved in community-based participatory research and evaluation, aiming to create interventions that are both effective and culturally relevant. Dr. Sharma is passionate about addressing health disparities and improving population health outcomes through targeted behavioral interventions.

Awards

Over the course of his career, Dr. Sharma has received numerous prestigious awards for his contributions to public health and education. These include the American Public Health Association’s Lyndon Haviland Mentoring Award, the ATOD Lifetime Achievement Award, and the ICTHP Impact Award. He has also been honored with the William R. Gemma Distinguished Alumnus Award from The Ohio State University and the Cancer Forum’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award. These accolades reflect his dedication to mentorship, leadership, and advancing health equity.

Publications

Dr. Sharma is a prolific researcher, having published over 400 peer-reviewed articles, 16 books, and numerous other publications. His widely-cited work has contributed to advancing knowledge in public health, health behavior, and education. Some notable publications include:

Mindfulness-based stress reduction for healthy individuals: A meta-analysis, Journal of Psychosomatic Research, 2015. Cited by 2048 articles. Link

COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy in the United States: A rapid national assessment, Journal of Community Health, 2021. Cited by 1210 articles. Link

Theoretical foundations of health education and health promotion, Jones & Bartlett Learning, 2021. Cited by 1034 articles. Link

Prevalence of depression, anxiety, and stress during COVID-19 pandemic, Journal of Neurosciences in Rural Practice, 2020. Cited by 508 articles. Link

School-based interventions for childhood and adolescent obesity, Obesity Reviews, 2006. Cited by 464 articles. Link

Conclusion

Dr. Sharma’s distinguished career, marked by prolific research output, global recognition, and leadership roles, makes him a highly deserving candidate for the “Research for Excellence in Research” award. His work has not only contributed to advancing public health but has also influenced public health education and policy at a global scale. Though there are areas where he could expand, particularly in interdisciplinary collaboration and public engagement, his overall contributions are exemplary.

Manika Saha | Public Health Practitioner | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Manika Saha | Public Health Practitioner | Best Researcher Award 

Research Fellow , Monash University , Australia

Dr. Manika Saha is a dedicated public health practitioner and researcher specializing in human-centric design for development. With a focus on marginalized communities, she leverages participatory approaches to co-create solutions that amplify community voices. Dr. Saha’s work spans global health, nutrition, food security, gender studies, and international development, contributing significantly to sustainable global development. Her impactful research has been published in top-tier HCI, ICTD, and global public health journals.

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Strengths for the Award

  • Diverse Research Expertise: Dr. Saha’s work spans multiple disciplines, including public health, human-centered design, international development, and ICT for development. Her ability to integrate these fields highlights her interdisciplinary approach, which is crucial for addressing complex global issues.
  • Prolific Publication Record: Dr. Saha has a robust portfolio of peer-reviewed publications in top-tier journals and conferences, such as the ACM CHI Conference and Nature Scientific Reports. This indicates her research’s high impact and recognition in the academic community.
  • Significant Leadership Roles: Her leadership in various projects, including the USAID-funded INGENAES project and her role as a National Nutrition Specialist at the UNFAO, demonstrates her ability to lead large-scale, impactful research initiatives.
  • Global Reach and Impact: Dr. Saha’s research has a global perspective, with a focus on marginalized communities in developing countries. Her work on nutrition, public health, and digital interventions has direct implications for improving health outcomes in disadvantaged populations.
  • Recognition and Awards: Dr. Saha has received multiple prestigious awards, such as the STEM Sisters in Colours Ambassador for Victoria and the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship. These accolades reflect her excellence and leadership in her field.

Areas for Improvement

  • Further Development of Industry Collaborations: While Dr. Saha has extensive academic and international development experience, increasing collaborations with industry partners could enhance the practical application and scalability of her research.
  • Expansion of Teaching and Mentoring Roles: While she has held several teaching positions, expanding her mentorship of graduate students and postdoctoral researchers could further establish her as a leader in her field and contribute to the development of the next generation of researchers.
  • Greater Focus on Policy Advocacy: Given her expertise in public health and international development, Dr. Saha could strengthen her influence by engaging more directly in policy advocacy, translating her research findings into actionable recommendations for policymakers.

Education 🎓

Dr. Saha holds a PhD in Human-Centred Computing from Monash University, Australia, where she focused on incorporating community voices into project commissioning for international development. She earned her MSc in Global Health with merit from Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, and an MSc in Food & Nutrition from the University of Dhaka, where she graduated with distinction. Her academic journey is rooted in a commitment to improving health outcomes and fostering inclusive governance.

Experience 💼

Dr. Saha is currently a Research Fellow in ICT for Development at Monash University, where she also teaches IT research methods. Her professional experience includes roles as a National Nutrition Specialist with the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization and a Nutrition Research Associate at WorldFish. Dr. Saha has a rich history of working with disadvantaged communities, leading projects funded by organizations like USAID and collaborating with various international development agencies.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Saha’s research interests include action research, participatory design, human-centered design for community engagement, and the intersection of technology and global health. She is particularly focused on co-designing interventions that address the needs of marginalized populations, leveraging digital participatory media for data collection, and advancing nutrition-sensitive agriculture. Her work is driven by a passion for integrating community insights into policy and technology development.

Awards & Recognition 🏆

Dr. Saha has received numerous awards, including the Young Leader Award at the Global Peace Summit (2024) and the Postgraduate Publication Award from Monash University (2022). She was also recognized as an Emerging Young Science Leader by CGIAR (2021) and received the prestigious Commonwealth Shared Scholarship for her studies in the United Kingdom. Her contributions to public health and development have earned her widespread acclaim.

Publications 📚

  • Saha, M., Stephen L., Watterson, J., et al. (2024). Hearing Community Voices in HCI4D: Establishing Safe Places to Co-Create Counter-Collective Narratives with Women Farmers in Bangladesh. CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems. [Ranking: A*]
    • Cited by: (To be updated)
  • Saha, M., Ng, H., Odjidja, E.N., et al. (2024). Small Fish Big Impact: Improving Nutrition during Pregnancy and Lactation, and Empowerment for Marginalized Women. Nutrients, 16, 1829. Ranking: Q1
    • Cited by: (To be updated)
  • Saha, M., Zadesh-Cummings, N. (Accepted 2024). “For them it’s not the work, it’s the life”: Humanitarian leadership development in the Global South. Journal of International Humanitarian Action. [Ranking: Q1]
    • Cited by: (To be updated)
  • Islam, A., Richardson, D., Saha, M., et al. (2024). Recordkeeping in Voice-based Remote Community Engagement. CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems. [Ranking: A*]
    • Cited by: (To be updated)
  • Oliver, G., Saha, M., Whitty, M., et al. (2024). Cybersecurity: Putting Indigenous Peoples First. Proceedings of the Association for Information Science and Technology. [Ranking: Q1]

Conclusion

Dr. Manika Saha is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her interdisciplinary research, extensive publication record, leadership in significant international projects, and global impact make her a strong contender. With a few strategic enhancements, such as expanding industry collaborations and policy advocacy, she could further solidify her standing as a leading researcher in her field.