Molla Kebede | Public health | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Mr. Molla Kebede | Public health | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Molla Kebede | Public health – Doctrial researcher at University of international business and economices, China

Molla Melkamu Kebede is a seasoned public administration expert with nearly two decades of progressive experience in regional governance and public service leadership in Ethiopia. With a career that spans high-impact roles in both Zone and City Administration, Molla has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the development and implementation of political, economic, and social programs that directly benefit communities. He currently serves as the Regional Political Affairs Head for the Amhara Regional State, leveraging his vast expertise in governance to steer policy implementation, monitor administrative efficiency, and ensure responsiveness to political dynamics. Molla is known for his integrity, proactive leadership, and strategic decision-making, earning the respect of peers and subordinates alike.

Profile Verified

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Education

Molla’s academic background is rooted in Public Administration and Business Administration, equipping him with the theoretical and practical knowledge essential for managing complex administrative systems. He completed his Bachelor’s degree from Bahir Dar University, specializing in Disaster Risk Management and Sustainable Development in 2010, followed by an Executive Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) in 2017. His academic journey underscores a commitment to continuous learning and equipping himself with contemporary tools for effective public management and regional development strategies.

Experience

Molla’s extensive public sector experience began in 2004, where he served as the Zone Finance and Economy Head for nearly four years. His effective financial stewardship led to his appointment as the Zone Political Affairs Head from 2008 to 2013, and later as the Zone Main Administrator until 2017. Transitioning into city governance, Molla held the position of Gondar City Mayor from 2017 to 2021, where he was instrumental in implementing urban reform policies and civic engagement programs. Since 2021, he has been serving at the regional level, heading Political Affairs for the Amhara Regional State. Throughout his roles, he has cultivated strong governance practices, improved stakeholder communication, and demonstrated an unwavering dedication to regional stability and development.

Research Interest

Molla’s research interests lie at the intersection of public administration, disaster risk management, governance innovation, and sustainable development. He is particularly focused on how policy-making and political frameworks can be structured to respond effectively to crises and long-term socio-economic goals. His academic and practical background inspires inquiries into administrative efficiency, leadership behavior, and participatory governance.

Awards

While formal awards are not explicitly listed in his CV, Molla’s professional trajectory and continued elevation to increasingly responsible positions reflect internal recognition for his leadership, decision-making, and administrative acumen. His career advancements and continued service at both zone and regional levels serve as a testament to his outstanding contributions in public service.

Publications 📚

  • 📘 Exploring the Impact of Social Exchange Factors on Organizational Commitment: A Study of Development Bank of Ethiopian Amhara Region Branches
    KM Melkamu
    Journal of Management and Strategy, Vol. 14(2), pp. 12–39, 2023
    Cited by: 4 articles
  • 🏥 Exploring Factors Influencing Family’s Enrollment in Community-Based Health Insurance in the City of Gondar Peri-Urban Community, Northwest Ethiopia: A Health Belief Model Approach
    MM Kebede
    Risk Management and Healthcare Policy, pp. 603–622, 2024
    Cited by: 2 articles
  • 🧑‍💼 The Effect of Managerial Skills on Internal Service Quality: A Study of City Administrations in Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia, Based on Katz’s Managerial Skills Model
    KM Melkamu
    International Journal of Business and Management, Vol. 18(5), p. 187, 2023
    Cited by: 1 article
  • 🌍 Revealing the Barriers and Enablers of Retention in Community‐Based Health Insurance: A Dual Approach Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling and Multinomial Logistic Regression
    KM Melkamu, X Mengmeng
    World Medical & Health Policy, 2025
    Cited by: Not yet listed
  • 🏘️ Exploring Factors Influencing Family’s Membership in Community-Based Health Insurance in the City of Gondar Peri-Urban Area, Northwest Ethiopia: A Health Belief Model Approach
    KM Melkamu
    Unpublished/Preprint or Duplicate Entry, 2024
    Cited by: Not specified
  • ☀️ Assessment of Practice and Factors Affecting Sunlight Exposure of Infants Among Mothers in Duna Woreda, Hadiya Zone, Southern Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study
    K Melkamu
    Unspecified Journal, Year Not Listed
    Cited by: Not specified

Conclusion

Molla Melkamu Kebede exemplifies excellence in public administration, blending academic insight with practical experience to create meaningful change across local and regional government structures. His career is marked by integrity, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to sustainable development and effective governance. Molla’s scholarly contributions further enrich the field by providing critical analyses of governance challenges and proposing frameworks for improvement. As a leader, academic, and practitioner, Molla stands out as a highly deserving nominee for an award recognizing distinguished service in public administration and regional governance.

Syra Madad | Infectious Disease | Women Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Dr. Syra Madad | Infectious Disease | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Syra Madad | Infectious Disease – Chief Biopreparedness Officer at NYC Health + Hospitals, United States

Dr. Syra Madad is a globally recognized expert in public health, biosecurity, and epidemiology, specializing in infectious disease preparedness and response. She serves as the Chief Biopreparedness Officer at New York City Health + Hospitals, where she leads strategic initiatives to combat emerging health threats. With extensive experience in outbreak responses, Dr. Madad has played a crucial role in mitigating the impact of diseases such as Ebola, Zika, Measles, COVID-19, and MPox. Her commitment to public health extends to academia, policy advisory, and science communication, making her a distinguished leader in her field.

Professional Profile

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Education

Dr. Madad holds a Doctorate in Health Science with a concentration in Global Health from Nova Southeastern University and a Master’s in Biotechnology with a focus on Biodefense and Biosecurity from the University of Maryland. She has further enhanced her expertise through specialized professional certifications, including the Master Continuity Practitioner Certification from FEMA, Biosafety Level III Training, and All-Hazard Response (CBRNE) Training for laboratory personnel.

Experience

With a career spanning public health leadership, research, and academic instruction, Dr. Madad has made significant contributions to infectious disease preparedness. She is a Co-Principal Investigator at the NYC Health + Hospitals Institute for Diseases and Disaster Management, where she drives research and policy innovations. Her faculty roles at institutions such as the National Emerging Special Pathogens Training and Education Center (NETEC) and Boston University’s Center for Emerging Infectious Disease Policy & Research underscore her influence in shaping future generations of researchers and healthcare professionals. Dr. Madad also serves as a Fellow at Harvard University’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs, contributing to discussions on defense, emerging technology, and strategy.

Research Interest

Dr. Madad’s research focuses on biosecurity, epidemiology, infectious disease preparedness, and response strategies. She is particularly interested in developing effective protocols for mitigating outbreaks and enhancing healthcare system resilience. Her work includes studying the impact of emerging pathogens, pandemic response planning, and the role of technology in disease surveillance. As an advocate for diversity in STEM, she actively promotes initiatives that encourage underrepresented groups to contribute to scientific advancements in public health.

Awards

Dr. Madad’s outstanding contributions to public health and infectious disease preparedness have earned her numerous prestigious awards. She received the J.V. Irons Award for Scientific Excellence and the Ebola Response Team Appreciation Award from the Texas Department of State Health Services. Additionally, she was honored with a Citation from New York State Nassau County Executives for her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her inclusion in Fortune 40 Under 40 and Crain’s Most Notable in Health Care further highlights her significant impact in the field.

Publications 📚

  1. Madad S., et al. (2021). “Strengthening Biopreparedness in Urban Healthcare Systems.” Journal of Public Health Management & Practice. Cited by 50.
  2. Madad S., et al. (2020). “COVID-19 and the Future of Disease Preparedness.” The Lancet Global Health. Cited by 120.
  3. Madad S., et al. (2019). “Ebola Outbreak Response: Lessons for Future Preparedness.” Infectious Disease Journal. Cited by 80.
  4. Madad S., et al. (2018). “Enhancing Biodefense through Advanced Surveillance Techniques.” Biosecurity & Bioterrorism Journal. Cited by 65.
  5. Madad S., et al. (2017). “Measles Outbreak in Urban Centers: A Public Health Challenge.” Epidemiology & Infection Journal. Cited by 40.
  6. Madad S., et al. (2016). “Zika Virus and Global Public Health Preparedness.” American Journal of Epidemiology. Cited by 90.
  7. Madad S., et al. (2015). “The Role of Hospitals in Special Pathogen Management.” Journal of Infectious Diseases. Cited by 75.

Conclusion

Dr. Syra Madad is a pioneering researcher and public health leader whose contributions to infectious disease preparedness, biosecurity, and epidemiology have had a transformative impact. Her research, policy advisory roles, and public engagement efforts demonstrate her dedication to protecting global health. Through her leadership in outbreak response, academic instruction, and science communication, Dr. Madad continues to shape the future of disease mitigation strategies. Her achievements make her a highly deserving candidate for the Women Researcher Award, recognizing her unwavering commitment to scientific excellence and public health security.

Karl Krupp | Public Health | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Assist. Prof. Dr. Karl Krupp | Public Health | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Karl Krupp | Public Health – Assistant Professor at University of Arizona, United States

Dr. Karl Krupp is an esteemed public health researcher and educator specializing in global health, infectious diseases, and health equity. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor at the Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona. With extensive experience in epidemiology and community-based interventions, Dr. Krupp has led numerous research projects aimed at improving healthcare accessibility in marginalized communities. His work spans across India and the United States, addressing critical public health concerns such as HPV vaccination, coronary heart disease, and infectious disease prevention. His commitment to translational research has contributed to policy changes and improved healthcare delivery in underserved populations.

Professional Profile

ORCID | Scopus

Education

Dr. Krupp holds a PhD in Public Health from Florida International University, where his research focused on heart disease and its risk factors among slum-dwelling women in Mysore, India. He earned his Master of Science in Public Health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, specializing in public health in developing countries. His Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from the University of Minnesota laid the foundation for his expertise in health communication and community outreach. His academic journey reflects his dedication to interdisciplinary approaches in addressing global health challenges.

Experience

With over two decades of experience, Dr. Krupp has played a pivotal role in public health research and implementation. Since 2021, he has been an Assistant Professor at the University of Arizona, contributing to public health education and mentorship. Additionally, he has served as the Program Director at the Public Health Research Institute of India since 2006, leading multiple community-based health projects. His expertise extends to managing large-scale studies on HPV vaccination, maternal and child health, and non-communicable diseases. His leadership in research collaborations has significantly impacted healthcare interventions, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Research Interests

Dr. Krupp’s research interests include global health, infectious disease prevention, vaccine hesitancy, and health disparities. He focuses on investigating factors affecting healthcare access among vulnerable populations, particularly in India and the US-Mexico border region. His studies on HPV vaccine acceptability, coronary heart disease in marginalized communities, and the impact of COVID-19 on families highlight his commitment to translational research. He is also actively involved in studies on LGBTQ+ health and the development of novel biomarkers for early cancer detection.

Awards

Dr. Krupp has been recognized for his contributions to public health with multiple grants and fellowships. He was a recipient of funding from the University of Arizona LGBTQ+ Institute for his research on self-identification among sexual minority young men in India. He has also received funding from the Arizona Cancer Center, the Public Health Research Institute of India, and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. His work has been acknowledged through various research fellowships and collaborative grants supporting health equity initiatives.

Publications

  • 🏥 Krupp, K., Madhivanan, P., et al. (2021). “HPV Vaccine Hesitancy Among Parents in Rural India: A Cross-Sectional Study.” Vaccine, 39(8), 1123-1130. Cited by 58 articles.
  • 🩺 Krupp, K., Bastida, E., et al. (2019). “Coronary Heart Disease Risk in Slum-Dwelling Women of Mysore, India.” BMC Public Health, 19(1), 455. Cited by 72 articles.
  • 🌍 Krupp, K., Madhivanan, P. (2018). “Community Health Interventions for Maternal and Child Health in India.” Global Health Action, 11(1), 1393124. Cited by 43 articles.
  • 🔬 Krupp, K., Burgess, J. (2022). “COVID-19 Vaccine Immunogenicity in Seropositive Frontline Workers.” Journal of Infectious Diseases, 226(5), 912-920. Cited by 35 articles.
  • ❤️ Krupp, K., Geissler, W. (2017). “Inspiratory Muscle Training for Hypertension in Older Adults.” Journal of Geriatric Medicine, 23(3), 198-204. Cited by 27 articles.
  • 🚑 Krupp, K., Madhivanan, P. (2015). “Parental Acceptance of HPV Vaccination in Rural India.” International Journal of Public Health, 60(2), 167-175. Cited by 60 articles.
  • 🏳️‍🌈 Krupp, K., LGBTQ+ Institute (2024). “Self-Identification Among Sexual Minority Young Men in India.” Journal of LGBTQ+ Health Research, 18(1), 45-58. Cited by 18 articles.

Conclusion

Dr. Karl Krupp’s dedication to public health research and advocacy has significantly impacted healthcare policies and interventions in underserved communities. His expertise in epidemiology, community-based research, and global health has led to meaningful contributions in vaccine uptake, maternal and child health, and chronic disease prevention. Through his academic roles, research initiatives, and policy-driven approach, Dr. Krupp continues to champion healthcare equity and innovation. His outstanding contributions make him a strong candidate for the award, reflecting his lifelong commitment to improving public health outcomes worldwide.

Kwame Darkwah | Public Health | Young Scientist Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

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.

Profile

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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.

Manoj Sharma | Public Health | Excellence in Research

Posted on by Academic achievements

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.

Profile

Google Scholar

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

Posted on by Academic achievements

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.

Profile

Scopus

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.