Stephen Higgins | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Stephen Higgins | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Surgical Resident at Nebraska Medicine, United States

Dr. Stephen E. Higgins Jr., DMD, MPH, is an accomplished clinician and academician currently pursuing his M.D. at the University of Nebraska College of Medicine, with an expected graduation date of May 2025. He is a resident in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Creighton University School of Dentistry. Dr. Higgins combines extensive training in dentistry, medicine, and public health to provide interdisciplinary insights into surgical and public health challenges. Known for his academic rigor and leadership, he serves as a Clinical Instructor at Creighton University and actively contributes to academic and clinical teaching. His commitment to excellence is reflected in his numerous presentations, scholarly publications, and leadership roles within national medical and dental organizations. Dr. Higgins is especially noted for his dynamic involvement in both clinical care and scientific research, aiming to integrate cutting-edge research with clinical practice. With more than a decade of progressive academic and research experience, Dr. Higgins stands out as a dedicated scholar, committed to improving patient care and advancing medical knowledge. His work reflects a balance of clinical expertise, teaching, and research that positions him as a future leader in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Higgins has pursued a diverse and intensive academic path, integrating dentistry, medicine, and public health. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) degree from the University of New England College of Dental Medicine in 2022, where he also received multiple commendations for academic excellence and leadership. He holds a Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, completed in 2018, where he developed a strong foundation in epidemiology, biostatistics, and health systems research. He is currently a candidate for a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree at the University of Nebraska College of Medicine, scheduled to graduate in 2025. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Providence College in 2012, complemented by a minor in Business Studies. Dr. Higgins also completed a post-baccalaureate program at Worcester State University, graduating in 2016. His academic foundation has been enhanced by strong performance and honors, such as his induction into Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. This comprehensive educational background uniquely equips Dr. Higgins with an integrated approach to healthcare, enabling him to navigate clinical practice, academic research, and health policy with precision and insight.

Professional Experience

Dr. Higgins’s professional trajectory reflects a blend of clinical practice, academic instruction, and research leadership. Since 2022, he has been training as a resident in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Creighton University School of Dentistry. His dual-role residency under esteemed mentors Dr. Valmont Desa and Dr. Terry Lanphier emphasizes complex surgical procedures and interdisciplinary collaboration. Concurrently, he has served as a Clinical Instructor at Creighton University, where he mentors dental students in clinical procedures, case management, and academic development. Prior to his residency, he held leadership positions as President of the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Club and Student Representative to the Research Committee at the University of New England. His clinical experience is further strengthened by licensure to practice dentistry in Nebraska, and affiliations with major national bodies including the ADA, AMA, and AAOMS. Throughout his training, Dr. Higgins has demonstrated a strong commitment to integrating patient care with academic inquiry, often taking lead roles in research projects and quality improvement initiatives. His professional experience demonstrates a commitment to excellence, mentorship, and continuous learning in both surgical and academic contexts.

Research Interests

Dr. Higgins has cultivated a broad and evolving portfolio of research interests that span clinical oral surgery, public health, and medical education. His primary research focus includes the evaluation of surgical techniques in oral and maxillofacial surgery, particularly in stability and outcomes following procedures like sagittal split osteotomies. He has explored topics ranging from dentist comfort in diagnosing oral pathology to the impact of antibiotics on gut microbiota, reflecting his interdisciplinary expertise. Dr. Higgins has co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and has presented extensively at national conferences, including the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine and the North American Congress of Clinical Toxicology. His early work in emergency medicine explored benchmarking scholarly productivity, while subsequent research examined substance abuse interventions via telemedicine and health referral systems. These interests underscore his commitment to bridging gaps between research, policy, and patient care. By integrating clinical practice with inquiry-driven research, Dr. Higgins aims to advance evidence-based approaches in surgery and healthcare delivery. He continues to develop research that is translational in nature, driven by real-world clinical challenges and guided by rigorous academic methodologies.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Higgins has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout his academic and professional career, underscoring his excellence in leadership, research, and academic performance. While pursuing his D.M.D. at the University of New England, he was awarded the prestigious AAOMS Dental Student Award, recognizing exceptional promise in oral and maxillofacial surgery. He consistently earned Letters of Commendation for four consecutive years, reflecting his high academic performance and dedication. He graduated with Honors Research Distinction, highlighting his scholarly contributions to oral health research. He also received a Student Leadership Certificate for his active engagement in student organizations and advocacy. During his earlier academic career, Dr. Higgins was inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society at Worcester State University, a distinction reserved for students of the highest academic caliber. These accolades reflect not only Dr. Higgins’s intellectual aptitude but also his capacity for leadership, initiative, and service. His ongoing involvement with national professional organizations such as the ADA, AMA, and AAOMS further reflects his commitment to the highest standards of clinical practice and professional development. These honors validate Dr. Higgins’s standing as a promising figure in academic medicine and surgery.

Conclusion

Dr. Stephen E. Higgins Jr. is a highly promising and accomplished early-career researcher whose interdisciplinary background and active research involvement make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His combination of clinical training, research leadership, and publication record reflects a deep commitment to advancing evidence-based practices in oral and maxillofacial surgery and public health.

While he is still building his publication portfolio and academic footprint, the trajectory and potential for impact are clearly evident. If the award committee values early-career excellence, breadth of contribution, and leadership, Dr. Higgins would be a very deserving recipient.

Publications Top Notes

  • Authors: Stephen E. Higgins Jr., Valmont Desa

  • Year: 2025

  • Title: Comparing the Infection Rates of Strut Versus Straight Plates in Sagittal Split Osteotomies

  • Journal: Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.joms.2025.03.001

  • Citation: Higgins, S.E. Jr., & Desa, V. (2025). Comparing the infection rates of strut versus straight plates in sagittal split osteotomies. Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joms.2025.03.001

 

  • Authors: Edwin D. Boudreaux, Stephen E. Higgins Jr., Rebecca Reznik-Zellen, Bo Wang, Gregory Volturo

  • Year: 2019

  • Title: Scholarly Productivity and Impact: Developing a Quantifiable, Norm-Based Benchmarking Methodology for Academic Emergency Medicine

  • Journal: Academic Emergency Medicine, Volume 26, Issue 6, Pages 594–604

  • DOI: 10.1111/acem.13704

  • Citation: Boudreaux, E.D., Higgins, S.E., Reznik-Zellen, R., Wang, B., & Volturo, G. (2019). Scholarly productivity and impact: Developing a quantifiable, norm-based benchmarking methodology for academic emergency medicine. Academic Emergency Medicine, 26(6), 594–604. https://doi.org/10.1111/acem.13704

 

Yong Su Lim | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Yong Su Lim | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Gachon University College of Medicine, South Korea

Dr. Yong-Su Lim is a tenured professor of Emergency Medicine at Gachon University College of Medicine, specializing in critical care and toxicology. Born in South Korea on January 30, 1970, he is married with children. He currently holds multiple key leadership roles, including Vice Chairman of the ASK Simulation Center and Director of the Telemedicine Team at Gachon University Gil Medical Center. Over his extensive career, Dr. Lim has been a prominent figure in South Korean emergency medicine, recognized for his expertise in clinical practice, research, and education. He has earned the respect of his peers through his unwavering commitment to advancing the field, focusing on both patient care and medical education. He is dedicated to integrating advanced healthcare technologies, including telemedicine, to improve the quality and accessibility of emergency medical services in South Korea.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Yong-Su Lim’s academic journey reflects a deep commitment to both medical practice and research. He obtained his M.D. from Yeungnam University College of Medicine in 1994, a foundational achievement in his career. His passion for emergency medicine and clinical excellence led him to pursue further studies at Kyung Hee University, where he earned both a Master’s degree (2003) and a Ph.D. (2007). These advanced degrees have equipped him with the necessary skills to conduct meaningful research in emergency medicine, critical care, and toxicology. Dr. Lim’s educational background is complemented by numerous fellowships, including specialized training at Seoul National University Hospital and the University of Hawaii’s John A. Burns School of Medicine, allowing him to expand his expertise in telemedicine and medical simulation.

Professional Experience

Dr. Lim’s professional career spans more than two decades in various clinical and academic roles. After completing his internship at Yeungnam University Medical Center, he served as a resident at Gachon University Gil Medical Center, eventually progressing to become an assistant professor in 2003. Over the years, he advanced through the academic ranks, becoming an associate professor and later a full professor, while also heading the emergency room and intensive care unit. His leadership in clinical care is complemented by his involvement in medical simulation and telemedicine, areas in which he has pioneered advancements. As the director of the U-Healthcare Center, Dr. Lim has actively worked to integrate telemedicine technologies into clinical practice, aiming to revolutionize patient care and access to medical expertise in emergency situations.

Research Interests

Dr. Lim’s research interests are centered on the intersection of emergency medicine, critical care, toxicology, and telemedicine. His work explores various aspects of patient management in acute care settings, focusing on improving diagnostic techniques and therapeutic strategies. His contributions to the field include studies on electrical injuries, poisoning, and head trauma, as well as the clinical analysis of emergency medical systems. Dr. Lim has also been instrumental in advancing telemedicine, aiming to enhance the delivery of emergency medical care through remote consultations. His research has resulted in numerous publications in respected journals, underscoring his commitment to evidence-based practice and his role in shaping the future of emergency medical services.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Dr. Yong-Su Lim has received several accolades in recognition of his contributions to the field of emergency medicine and medical education. He has been honored for his leadership in medical simulation and his pioneering work in telemedicine, which has contributed to improving healthcare accessibility. In addition to his academic awards, he has been recognized by his peers for his active role in various medical societies, including the Korean Society of Emergency Medicine, where he has served in leadership positions. His commitment to clinical excellence and research has earned him the respect of both national and international colleagues, further cementing his position as a distinguished figure in the medical community.

Conclusion

Overall, Yong-Su Lim is certainly a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. He has made significant contributions to the field of emergency medicine and critical care, particularly in the areas of telemedicine, clinical procedures, and toxicology. His leadership roles and extensive publication record demonstrate his commitment and influence in the medical research community. To further strengthen his candidacy, emphasizing the impact and novelty of his research in clinical practice and expanding his collaborations across disciplines would be beneficial.

Publications Top Noted

Author(s):
Jang, Jae-ho; Cho, Jinseong; Lim, Yong-Su; Choi, Jae-yeon; Yang, Hyukjun

Year: 2022

Title: Disaster Response to a Mass Casualty Incident in a Hospital Fire by Regional Disaster Medical Assistance Team: Characteristics of Hospital Fire

Journal: Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness

Citations: 7 citations

Bin Zheng | Biotherapy | Best Researcher Award

Prof.  Dr. Bin Zheng | Biotherapy | Best Researcher Award

Professor, Tianjin Medical University, China

📚 Bin Zheng is a distinguished professor at the Academy of Medical Engineering and Translational Medicine, Tianjin University. With a rich academic and professional background, he has made significant contributions as a PhD supervisor and postdoctoral fellow at Caroline School of Medicine, Sweden. Over the past five years, Prof. Zheng has published over 30 SCI papers, including notable cover articles, amassing an impressive impact factor exceeding 500. He has also been pivotal in leading multiple national and municipal research projects and holds numerous patents in both China and the U.S.

Profile

Orcid

Education

🎓 Prof. Bin Zheng’s academic journey includes a significant postdoctoral fellowship at the Caroline School of Medicine in Sweden, highlighting his robust research foundation. His academic prowess is further supported by his supervision of PhD candidates, fostering an environment of innovation and scholarly excellence.

Professional Experience

💼 Prof. Zheng has spearheaded numerous groundbreaking projects, authoring over 30 research papers as the primary or corresponding author. He has presided over key research funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China and major projects by Tianjin Municipality. His consultancy engagements span 13 industry projects, underlining his impact beyond academia.

Research Interests

🔬 Prof. Zheng’s research spans an interdisciplinary range, focusing on biomaterials, cancer research, cellular microbiology, immunity, nanoparticles, nanobiotechnology, and optogenetics. His expertise bridges fundamental science with practical innovations that have led to clinical applications and commercial partnerships.

Awards and Honors

🏆 Throughout his illustrious career, Prof. Zheng has received numerous accolades, including the Excellent Doctoral Dissertation Award of Tianjin Municipality, and the First Prize for Innovative Achievement from the China Industry-University-Research Cooperation Association. Additionally, his leadership has earned more than 20 academic awards at the provincial and university levels for his mentees.

Publications Top Notes

📝 Prof. Zheng has published numerous influential articles in high-impact journals. Here are a few key examples:

2022, Journal of Biomedical Materials Research: “Innovative Biodegradable Nanocomposites for Cancer Therapy” [Cited by 12 articles]

2021, Nature Biomedical Engineering: “Optogenetic Control in Cellular Engineering” [Cited by 25 articles]

2020, Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews: “Nanoparticles for Targeted Drug Delivery in Cancer” [Cited by 18 articles]

Bryson Kemler | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Bryson Kemler | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Orthopaedic Surgeon at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, United States

Dr. Bryson R. Kemler, M.D., M.S., is an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine. He is currently a fellow at the prestigious Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in Los Angeles. With a focus on treating sports injuries, Dr. Kemler has worked extensively with professional athletes and university sports teams. His dedication to advancing orthopedic care is reflected in his prolific research and clinical practice, aimed at enhancing recovery and performance in sports medicine.

Profile

Scopus Profile

Education🎓📘

Dr. Kemler holds a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from Eastern Virginia Medical School (2019), where he also earned a Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences (2014). He completed his Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience at the College of William and Mary in 2013. Dr. Kemler will finish his orthopedic surgery residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia by June 2024, solidifying his expertise in the field.

Experience🏌️‍♂️🏒

Dr. Kemler has extensive experience in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine, currently serving as an assistant team physician for the Los Angeles Dodgers and Anaheim Ducks. He has held key research roles, including a fellowship at the Steadman Philippon Research Institute, and has provided medical coverage for various professional and collegiate teams. He has also been involved in teaching at both the undergraduate and medical levels, helping to shape the next generation of medical professionals.

Research Interest🔬🏃‍♂️

Dr. Kemler’s research primarily focuses on sports-related injuries, particularly in areas such as ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction, chronic exertional compartment syndrome, and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. His goal is to improve surgical outcomes and rehabilitation processes for athletes, helping them return to peak performance faster and more effectively. He is also interested in the biomechanical aspects of sports injuries, further contributing to advancements in sports medicine.

Awards🏆🎖️

Dr. Kemler has been recognized for his contributions to orthopedic research and clinical practice. He received the ON/AOSSM Education Scholarship in 2022 to present at the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine (AOSSM) Annual Meeting. He was also awarded a Major League Baseball Research Grant for his work on the blood supply variations in the ulnar collateral ligament. His commitment to advancing sports medicine earned him a research fellowship at the Steadman Philippon Research Institute (2017-2018).

Publications

  1. Kemler BR, et al. “Return to Play after UCL Injury in Gymnasts.” Phys Sportsmed. In Press. DOI: 10.1080/00913847.2024
  2. Kemler BR, et al. “Analysis of Patients Who Undergo Index Arthroscopy With Biopsy but Not Implantation for Staged Chondrocyte Cell Transplantation.” Orthop J Sports Med. 2024. DOI: 10.1177/23259671241271705
  3. Kemler BR, et al. “Considerations for Revision Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction.” J Orthop. 2024. DOI: 10.1016/j.jor.2024.05.012
  4. Kemler BR, et al. “Evaluation of Failed ACL Reconstruction: An Updated Review.” Open Access J Sports Med. 2024. DOI: 10.2147/OAJSM.S427332
  5. Kemler BR, et al. “Rehabilitation and Return to Sport Criteria After Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction.” Am J Sports Med. 2022. DOI: 10.1177/03635465211033994

Conclusion🏅✨

Dr. Bryson Kemler is a highly dedicated orthopedic surgeon whose work bridges both clinical practice and research in sports medicine. With a deep commitment to advancing treatment for sports-related injuries, his contributions have been acknowledged by numerous awards and publications. His expertise is shaping the future of orthopedic care for athletes, making him a strong candidate for any professional recognition or award in the field of sports medicine.