MARIA KANTZANOU | Medical | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. MARIA KANTZANOU | Medical | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof of Medical Microbiology & Parasitology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece

Dr. Maria Kantzanou is a distinguished Medical Biopathologist and Associate Professor of Medical Microbiology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece. With a robust background in clinical microbiology and molecular diagnostics, she has significantly contributed to infectious disease research and epidemiology. Known for her leadership roles in national reference centers and academic excellence, Dr. Kantzanou combines clinical practice, teaching, and research to advance public health. 🌟

Publication Profile

🎓 Education Background

Dr. Kantzanou holds a Medical Degree from the National Kapodistrian University of Athens and earned her PhD with excellent honors from the same institution. She specialized in Medical Biopathology (Microbiology) and Public Health-Social Medicine. Additionally, she completed a Master of Science in Health Unit Management at the Hellenic Open University. Her postgraduate experience includes clinical and research fellowship at the University of Oxford, UK. 🎓📜

💼 Professional Experience

Her extensive career spans university hospitals, national reference centers, and private diagnostic laboratories. Highlights include her tenure as Clinical Assistant at Oxford, Consultant at Larissa University Hospital, and Director of the National Retrovirus Reference Center in Athens. Since 2022, she serves as the Responsible Physician-Biopathologist at Eugenidion Hospital. Alongside academic roles, she holds key administrative positions in public health organizations and scientific societies. 🏥🔬

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Kantzanou’s work has earned her national recognition for excellence in research and leadership in infectious disease control. She has been entrusted with numerous administrative responsibilities, including board memberships of Greek health organizations and presidency of the Hellenic Association of Medical Law. Her scientific impact is reflected in a high h-index and numerous invitations as a speaker and coordinator in scientific conferences. 🏆🎖️

🔬 Research Focus

Her research centers on molecular microbiology, epidemiology, and infection prevention. Dr. Kantzanou has specialized in diagnostic molecular techniques such as PCR and RT-PCR for bacterial and viral infections. Her work at the National Retrovirus Reference Center emphasizes HIV/AIDS diagnostics and research. Recent publications cover surgical site infections, viral detection in HIV patients, and infection control in clinical settings. 🧬🦠

✍️ Conclusion

Dr. Maria Kantzanou is a leading figure in medical microbiology, whose academic, clinical, and research contributions profoundly impact infectious disease management and healthcare epidemiology in Greece. Her dedication to teaching and mentoring alongside active participation in healthcare administration showcases her multifaceted expertise and commitment to advancing medical science and public health. 🌍💡

📚 Publication Top Notes

Prevalence of Osteosynthesis Hardware Removal Due to Surgical Site Infections Following Sagittal Split Osteotomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Journal of Clinical Medicine (2025)
DOI: 10.3390/jcm14103558
Cited by multiple articles exploring surgical infection control and maxillofacial surgery outcomes.

Prevalence of HHV-6 Detection Among People Living with HIV: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Viruses (2025)
DOI: 10.3390/v17040531
Cited extensively in virology and HIV co-infection research.

Prevalence of Surgical Site Infections Following Coronectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Dentistry Journal (2024)
DOI: 10.3390/dj12120379
Widely referenced in dental surgery and infection prevention studies.

Prevalence of Leishmaniasis among Blood Donors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Diseases (2024)
DOI: 10.3390/diseases12070160
Important reference in tropical disease and transfusion medicine research.

Prevalence of surgical site infections following extraction of impacted mandibular third molars: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Journal of Stomatology, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (2024)
DOI: 10.1016/j.jormas.2024.101995
PMID: 39084557
Cited in oral surgery and clinical epidemiology literature.

The Existence-Relatedness-Growth Theory for Job Satisfaction and Motivation of Greek National Healthcare Service Employees in the Context of Severe Financial Constraints
Cureus (2024)
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.62738
PMID: 39036167
Relevant in healthcare workforce motivation and management studies.

Prevalence of free flap failure in mandibular osteoradionecrosis reconstruction: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Scientific Reports (2024)
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-61862-1
Highly cited in reconstructive surgery and oncology-related infection research.

 

 

Laura Umfleet | Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Laura Umfleet | Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Medical College of Wisconsin, United States

Dr. Laura Glass Umfleet, Psy.D., ABPP (CN), is an accomplished clinical neuropsychologist and Associate Professor of Neurology at the Medical College of Wisconsin. With expertise in adult cognitive disorders, especially neurodegeneration and congenital conditions, she is nationally certified by the American Board of Professional Psychology. Dr. Glass Umfleet serves as an editorial board member and an international leader in data-sharing initiatives. Her contributions span clinical practice, academic mentorship, and scientific collaboration, reinforcing her commitment to advancing neuropsychology through research, education, and open science initiatives. 🌍🧠📚

Publication Profile

Scopus

Academic background

Dr. Glass Umfleet earned her B.S. in Psychology with a Biology minor in 2006 and an M.S. in Psychology in 2008 from the University of Central Missouri. She completed her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology from Roosevelt University, Chicago, in 2012 with APA accreditation. Her predoctoral internship at the University of Florida focused on neuropsychology, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship in Clinical Neuropsychology at the Medical College of Wisconsin and the Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center. Her educational journey reflects a strong foundation in clinical and cognitive neuroscience. 🎓📖🧬

Professional Experience

Since 2014, Dr. Glass Umfleet has served at the Medical College of Wisconsin as a Clinical Neuropsychologist, advancing to Associate Professor in 2021. She is also an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Her clinical, academic, and leadership roles reflect her deep involvement in patient care, teaching, and research. Her professional path includes national and international presentations, peer-reviewed workshops, and active roles in neuropsychology organizations, positioning her as a respected expert in her field. 🏥📊👩‍🏫

Awards and Honors

Dr. Glass Umfleet’s professional recognition includes board certification in Clinical Neuropsychology by ABPP and editorial positions, such as Associate Editor for the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. She has been selected for numerous leadership roles in international neuropsychology societies, including chairing the INS WINDS SIG and serving on committees focused on student mentorship and open science. Her involvement in editorial reviews and scientific programs reflects high standing and trust in her scholarly expertise. 🏅🧠🌟

Research Focus

Dr. Glass Umfleet’s research focuses on cognitive functioning in aging and neurological conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease and adult congenital heart disease. She explores digital neuropsychological assessment, cognitive subtypes, and psychometric methods through collaborative networks like the National Neuropsychology Network. As Chair of INS WINDS, she champions data sharing and precision neuropsychology. Her work bridges clinical insight and innovative methodologies, promoting open science and advancing the field’s understanding of brain-behavior relationships. 🧪🧩💻

Publication Top Notes

🧠 Changes in cerebrovascular reactivity within functional networks in older adults with long-COVID

Year: 2025 | 🧬🧓🦠🧠 Frontiers in Neurology

🧪 Computerized adaptive test strategies for the matrix reasoning subtest of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, 4th Edition (WAIS-IV)

Year: 2024 | Cited by: 1 | 📊🧠📈📘 Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society

Conclusion

Dr. Laura Glass Umfleet is an exemplary clinical neuropsychologist whose sustained research productivity, innovative methodologies, and impactful publications over nearly two decades underscore her status as a leading figure in the field. Her national and international influence is evident through her leadership roles in global initiatives like the WINDS SIG and ACHD/Neuro Working Group, as well as frequent invited presentations at top-tier conferences. Board-certified by the ABPP and serving as Associate Professor at the Medical College of Wisconsin, Dr. Umfleet pairs academic excellence with clinical relevance. Her dedication to mentoring, editorial service, and advancing open science in neuropsychology further cements her as a highly deserving recipient of a Best Researcher Award.

 

Dr. Lova Kajuluri | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Lova Kajuluri | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Mass General Brigham, United States

Lova Prasadareddy Kajuluri is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), Charlestown, USA. He is recognized for his significant contributions to cardiovascular research, particularly in understanding vascular calcification and its potential treatments. With a strong background in biotechnology, Kajuluri has advanced in his research career through various prestigious roles in both India and the United States. He holds a Doctorate in Science from the CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India, and has received multiple research grants to further his studies in cardiovascular diseases. 🚀

Publication Profile

Education Background

Kajuluri’s educational journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, and Chemistry from Andhra University in 2007. He continued to pursue a Master of Science in Biotechnology from Andhra University, followed by a Ph.D. in Science from CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, India. His academic excellence has paved the way for several postdoctoral positions, starting from his research fellowship at Boston University to his current position at Massachusetts General Hospital, where he continues to explore novel therapies in cardiovascular research. 🎓📚

Professional Experience

Kajuluri’s professional career began as a Research Fellow at CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute in India, focusing on Leishmaniasis and actin-related proteins. He transitioned to postdoctoral research at Boston University, where he led studies on vascular smooth muscle contraction and calponin. His current role as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at MGH involves leading studies on vascular calcification, gene therapy, and identifying therapeutic targets to treat cardiovascular diseases. His extensive research in these areas contributes significantly to the advancement of vascular health. 🔬🧑‍🔬

Awards and Honors

Kajuluri has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his career. Notably, he was awarded the Research Fellowship from the University Grants Commission, New Delhi, India (2011-2016). He has also been a part of several funded research projects, including those supported by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, USA. His dedication to advancing cardiovascular and infectious disease research has earned him recognition from the scientific community. 🏆🎖️

Research Focus

Kajuluri’s research is focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying vascular calcification, a condition that contributes to cardiovascular diseases. His current studies explore gene therapies to treat vascular calcification in infants, as well as the role of histone deacetylases in vascular health. Additionally, his earlier work in Leishmaniasis has expanded his expertise to parasitology and cellular biology. His work bridges cardiovascular research and therapeutic innovation, offering potential treatments for critical vascular conditions. ❤️🧬

Conclusion

Lova Prasadareddy Kajuluri’s career is a testament to his commitment to advancing science in cardiovascular health and infectious diseases. Through his research, he continues to provide invaluable insights into vascular calcification and gene therapy, offering hope for future treatments in these fields. 🌟🔬

Publication Top Notes

Epigenetic Regulation of Human Vascular Calcification. Genes, 2025, 16, 506. DOI

Calponin 1 inhibits agonist-induced ERK activation and decreases calcium sensitization in vascular smooth muscle.  Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, January 28, 2024. PubMed

Treatment of calcific arterial disease via enhancement of autophagy using GSK343.  iScience, October 28, 2023. PubMed

Intracellular localization of MyosinXXI discriminates Leishmania spp and Leptomonas seymouri.  Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications, May 14, 2022. PubMed

Actin-related protein 4: An unconventional negative regulator of mitochondrial calcium in protozoan parasite Leishmania.  Mitochondrion, Jan 2022. PubMed

Vascular aging, the vascular cytoskeleton and aortic stiffness.  Exploration of Medicine, June 2021. PubMed

The uterine myocyte, contractile machinery and proteins of the myometrium and their relationship to the dynamic nature of myometrial function.  Current Opinion in Physiology, February 2020. ScienceDirect

A twinfilin-like protein coordinates karyokinesis by influencing mitotic spindle elongation and DNA replication in Leishmania.  Molecular Microbiology, April 2016. PubMed

Oligomerization of coronin: Implication on actin filament length in Leishmania. Cytoskeleton (Hoboken, N.J.), December 2015. PubMed

Maria Asunción Aguilar | Health Sciences | Women Researcher Award

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Prof Dr. Maria Asunción Aguilar | Health Sciences | Women Researcher Award

Catedrática de Universidad, Universitat de Valencia, Spain

👩‍🔬 Maria A. Aguilar (also known as Maria Asunción Aguilar) is a Full Professor at the University of Valencia in the Department of Psychobiology. With a research focus on psychopharmacology and physiological psychology, she has made significant contributions to understanding the brain mechanisms underlying addiction and stress resilience. Since November 2017, she has held the prestigious position of Catedrático at the University of Valencia.

Publication Profile

ORCID

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Extensive Research in Psychobiology: María A. Aguilar is a full professor of Psychobiology at the University of Valencia, focusing on neuropsychopharmacology and physiological psychology. Her work on the interaction between social stress, drug addiction, and brain function, particularly in the context of cocaine and MDMA, contributes valuable insights to women’s health and psychology, making her a strong contender.
  2. Prolific Publication Record: With 122 published works, Aguilar’s research covers cutting-edge topics such as the role of social stress in drug addiction and the therapeutic effects of substances like cannabidiol. These areas have significant implications for mental health treatments, relevant to women’s health challenges.
  3. Leadership and Experience: She has held prominent academic roles, including being a full professor since 2017 and previously a tenured professor since 2002. Her leadership in academic settings and sustained research output strengthens her profile for the award.
  4. Innovative Contributions to Neuroscience: Aguilar’s studies on glutamatergic receptors and their role in the brain’s response to social defeat and drug addiction present novel approaches to understanding mental health disorders, making her a thought leader in neuroscience.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Specific Focus on Women’s Health: Although her research addresses critical aspects of mental health, especially addiction and stress, a more direct focus on gender-specific issues in psychopharmacology, such as how these conditions uniquely impact women, could make her case stronger for an award dedicated to women’s research.
  2. Outreach and Public Engagement: While her academic contributions are significant, further involvement in public health initiatives or policy impact related to women’s mental health might enhance her candidacy. Increasing visibility in terms of applying her research to real-world settings could further strengthen her application.

Education

🎓 Maria A. Aguilar completed her specialization in Psychopharmacology and Physiological Psychology, with a focus on understanding the neural circuits involved in addiction and behavior. Her doctoral thesis was supervised by renowned experts Jose Miñarro and Vicente Simón.

Experience

💼 Maria A. Aguilar has had a distinguished academic career, starting as a Professor Titular at the University of Valencia in 2002 and later being promoted to Full Professor in 2017. Her teaching and research primarily focus on psychobiology, particularly studying addiction, drug abuse, and neuroplasticity.

Research Focus

🔬 Her research explores the neurobiological mechanisms of addiction and stress, especially focusing on drug-seeking behavior, neuroplasticity, and the role of glutamatergic receptors. She has conducted extensive studies on the effects of cocaine, MDMA, and cannabidiol on the brain’s reward systems.

Awards and Honors

🏅 Professor Aguilar has received various accolades throughout her career, including recognition for her groundbreaking research in psychopharmacology and neurobiology. She is a member of several professional organizations and continues to contribute to advancing the understanding of brain mechanisms in behavior.

Publication Top Notes

📝 Top Publications:

Inhibition of Nitric Oxide Synthesis Prevents the Effects of Intermittent Social Defeat on Cocaine-Induced Conditioned Place Preference in Male Mice (2024). Published in Pharmaceuticals DOI: 10.3390/ph17091203. Cited by: 6 articles.

Intermittent voluntary wheel running promotes resilience to the negative consequences of repeated social defeat in mice (2022). Published in Physiology & Behavior DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2022.113916. Cited by: 12 articles.

Cannabidiol prevents priming- and stress-induced reinstatement of the conditioned place preference induced by cocaine in mice (2021). Published in Journal of Psychopharmacology DOI: 10.1177/0269881120965952. Cited by: 20 articles.

Role of NMDA and AMPA glutamatergic receptors in the effects of social defeat on the rewarding properties of MDMA in mice (2019). Published in European Journal of Neuroscience DOI: 10.1111/ejn.14190. Cited by: 15 articles.

Conclusion:

María A. Aguilar is a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Women Award due to her extensive contributions to psychobiology, particularly in the study of drug addiction and stress-related behaviors. Her long academic career, leadership roles, and prolific publication record highlight her dedication to advancing research in neuroscience. To increase her chances of winning, focusing more on the gender-specific implications of her work and enhancing public outreach could further align her profile with the award’s goals.

Jocelyn Finn| Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Jocelyn Finn| Health Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Physiotherapist, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africaca

🧑‍⚕️ Jocelyn Banbury is a dedicated and experienced physiotherapist with a comprehensive background in treating critical and post-operative patients. With a robust education and diverse professional experience across several esteemed institutions, Jocelyn has honed her skills in physiotherapy, first aid, and life support training. Her commitment to the healthcare sector is reflected in her active participation in various professional bodies and continuous education in advanced medical courses.

Profile

ORCID

 

Education

MSc Physiotherapy (Incomplete), University of the Witwatersrand (WITS), 2018 – Current. BSc Physiotherapy, University of the Witwatersrand (WITS), 2007 – 2010. ECMO Training, Ascendis Medical, 2019. Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support, Medical Minds, 2016. OMT1, SASP (OMPTG Special Interest Group), 2015. CPT1, SASP (CPRG Special Interest Group), 2014. Assessor – Health and Welfare SETA, H.E.A.R.T. Solutions, 2015. BLS / First Aid Instructor, Medical Minds, 2011. Basic Ambulance Assistant – Basic Life Support Medic, St John Ambulance, 2008 – 2009. Matric, St Mary’s School for Girls – Waverly, 2001 – 2005

Experience

💼 Royal Free Hospital: Physiotherapist (Bank), November 2020 – Present. Managed treatment and rehabilitation of ITU and medical ward patients, including COVID-19 patients. Maurice Valente Physiotherapy: Physiotherapist, March 2020 – September 2020. Treated ICU, medical, and post-operative surgical patients. Plani, Laidler, Fleishman, Sklaar & Associates Physiotherapy: Physiotherapist, 2014 – February 2020 (2012 – 2013 Locum). Specialized in ICU and cardiothoracic physiotherapy, supervised WITS students, and assisted in trauma surgery. Bertha Gxowa Hospital: Physiotherapist / Acting Head of Department, 2011 – 2013. Managed the physiotherapy department, drafted policies, and coordinated departmental moves. Medical Minds: Instructor, 2012 – 2018. Provided first aid and CPR training. Lancet Laboratories: Lab Assistant, 2006 – 2007. Conducted general lab administration and blood tests.RealCheck: Administrator, 2006 – 2007. Verified vehicle credentials and managed enquiries.

Research Interests

: Jocelyn Banbury has a strong interest in critical care physiotherapy, with a focus on the rehabilitation of critically ill patients, particularly those in ICU settings. Her involvement in developing and implementing cardiac post-operative exercise programs highlights her commitment to advancing physiotherapy practices and improving patient outcomes.

Awards

While specific awards are not listed in her CV, Jocelyn Banbury’s distinguished career and various certifications in advanced medical training demonstrate her dedication to professional excellence and continuous learning. Her contributions to physiotherapy, particularly in critical care and cardiothoracic specialties, are highly regarded by her peers and institutions she has been associated with.

Publications

Jocelyn Banbury’s publications are not explicitly listed in the provided CV. For further details on her research and publications, please contact her directly at finnjos@gmail.com.