Carmen Vives-Cases | Public health | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Carmen Vives-Cases | Public health | Best Researcher Award

University Professor at Universidad de Alicante, Spain

Dr. María del Carmen Vives-Cases is a distinguished Public Health Professor at the University of Alicante, renowned for her extensive research on gender-based violence, social inequalities, and public health. With a PhD in Sociology and over two decades of academic experience, she has led multiple high-impact, EU-funded projects addressing violence prevention, gender equity, and empowerment of marginalized populations. She has authored more than 200 scientific publications and received numerous national and international awards recognizing her contributions to epidemiology and gender studies. As Head of the Equality Unit at her university and a former president of the Spanish Scientific Association of Epidemiology, she has played a key role in shaping inclusive policies and fostering academic equity. Her work bridges research, policy, and practice, making significant strides in promoting public health and social justice both in Spain and across Europe. Dr. Vives-Cases is a highly respected voice in the global fight against gender violence.

Professional Profile 

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ORCID Profile

Education

Dr. María del Carmen Vives-Cases holds a robust academic foundation in sociology and public health. She earned her Sociology Degree from the University of Alicante in 1998 and subsequently completed her PhD in Sociology at the same institution in 2004. Her doctoral thesis, titled “The public discourse about gender violence in Spain”, laid the groundwork for her lifelong research commitment to gender-based violence and social inequalities. Her education was rooted in both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, equipping her with interdisciplinary tools essential for analyzing public health issues through a sociological lens. Her academic background reflects a consistent focus on understanding complex social dynamics, especially those affecting vulnerable populations. Dr. Vives-Cases has maintained strong ties with the academic community through continued collaborations and curriculum development, making her a key figure in shaping educational pathways that integrate gender, equity, and health systems. Her education has been instrumental in driving policy-relevant research at national and international levels.

Professional Experience

Dr. Vives-Cases has been a dedicated faculty member in the Public Health Department at the University of Alicante since 2001, where she currently serves as a full professor. Her professional career has been defined by a dual commitment to teaching and high-impact research. She has held leadership roles within both her institution and wider academic networks, including her tenure as Vice-President and later President of the Spanish Scientific Association of Epidemiology from 2012 to 2018. Since 2021, she has also served as Head of the Equality Unit at the University of Alicante, leading institutional efforts to promote gender equity in academia. Over her career, she has developed and coordinated multiple European research projects on gender-based violence, health equity, and educational interventions. Her professional experience extends beyond academia to influencing public health policies and international collaborations. Dr. Vives-Cases exemplifies academic leadership with a strong focus on real-world social and health issues.

Research Interest

Dr. María del Carmen Vives-Cases’ research focuses primarily on gender-based violence, social determinants of health, public health responses to inequality, and equity in academic institutions. She is particularly known for her work on intimate partner violence, masculinities, and access to health services for vulnerable groups, including Roma women and adolescents. Her studies employ mixed-methods approaches to bridge gaps between social science theory and public health practice. She has coordinated numerous high-impact European research projects such as Uni4Equity, ISEDA, and PositivMasc, which address systemic factors contributing to violence and promote evidence-based strategies for prevention. Additionally, her research integrates policy advocacy and health system strengthening, aiming to inform and transform institutional responses to violence and inequality. With over 200 publications and involvement in international networks, her research continues to shape the discourse around gender and health equity. Her interests reflect a holistic, justice-oriented approach to public health challenges.

Award and Honor

Dr. Vives-Cases has received numerous prestigious awards that highlight her exceptional contributions to research and public health. She was conferred the title of Doctor Honoris Causa by the Faculty of Medicine at Umeå University in 2019, recognizing her leadership in gender and health research. Her work has also been honored multiple times by the Spanish Society for Epidemiology, including the XXV Prize for Best Article in Gaceta Sanitaria and several Enrique Nájera Prizes for outstanding research abstracts. Additionally, she received the Prize for Research in Gender Violence from the Zero Tolerance Foundation and the Valencian Government in 2006–2007. These accolades underscore her influence in advancing evidence-based interventions and public policies. Dr. Vives-Cases’ awards not only reflect academic excellence but also a sustained commitment to addressing gender-based violence, improving health systems, and empowering vulnerable populations. Her recognition across both national and international arenas affirms her status as a leading researcher in her field.

Conclusion

Dr. María del Carmen Vives-Cases stands out as an exemplary scholar, educator, and public health leader. With a solid academic foundation, over two decades of professional experience, and a focused research agenda on gender-based violence and health inequalities, she has made transformative contributions to both academic literature and public policy. Her leadership in coordinating multinational research projects and her roles in institutional governance reflect a rare blend of scholarly excellence and societal engagement. She has received numerous awards acknowledging her impact, and her work continues to inform strategies that promote gender equity and public health across Europe. Through her teaching, research, and advocacy, Dr. Vives-Cases has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to social justice, making her a deserving candidate for any distinction recognizing outstanding research and leadership. Her career serves as a model for integrating academic rigor with social relevance, and her influence will undoubtedly continue shaping future generations of researchers and policymakers.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Areas for action to promote positive forms of masculinities in preventing violence against women: a concept mapping study in Spain
    Authors: Cerdán-Torregrosa, A.; Sanz-Barbero, B.; La Parra-Casado, D.; Vives-Cases, C.
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Building Bridges Between Arnett’s and Havighurst’s Theories: New Developmental Tasks in Emerging Adulthood Across Six Countries
    Authors: Jankowiak, B.; Soroko, E.; Kuryś-Szyncel, K.; Jaskulska, S.; Hill, C.T.; Sawaumi, T.; Sanz-Barbero, B.; Vives-Cases, C.; Neves, S.; Inagaki, T. et al.
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Delving into teen dating violence, gender and health assets in a participatory educational intervention: A mixed methods evaluation
    Authors: Cerdán-Torregrosa, A.; Pérez-Martínez, V.; Davó-Blanes, M.C.; Comino, I.; Madrona-Bonastre, R.; Sanz-Barbero, B.; Vives-Cases, C.
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Gender exclusion in research: a setback for science and public health
    Authors: Vives-Cases, C.; Obón-Azuara, B.
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Mental Well-Being, Sexual Orientation, and Interpersonal Stigma in Cisgender Adolescents in Catalonia
    Authors: Drou-Roget, G.; Bosque-Prous, M.; González-Casals, H.; Teixidó-Compañó, E.; Vives-Cases, C.; Folch, C.; Sánchez-Ledesma, E.; Rogés, J.
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Sexual violence in Catalan adolescents: prevalence, associated factors and health consequences
    Authors: Gonzalez-Casals, H.; Vives-Cases, C.; Espelt, A.; Bosque-Prous, M.; Teixidó-Compañó, E.; Drou-Roget, G.; Folch, C.
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Constructing, Deconstructing or Abolishing? Discourses on Masculinities in Violence Against Women Prevention by Stakeholders in Spain
    Authors: Nardini, K.; Cerdán-Torregrosa, A.; Sanz-Barbero, B.; Davó-Blanes, M.C.; Vives-Cases, C.
    Year: 2025

  • Title: Accessibility of intimate partner violence-related services for young women in Spain
    Authors: Otero-García, L.; Durán-Martín, E.; Castellanos-Torres, E.; Sanz-Barbero, B.; Vives-Cases, C.
    Year: 2024

  • Title: Characterizing myths of sexual aggression in the young population in Spain
    Authors: Sanz-Barbero, B.; Vives-Cases, C.; Vall-llosera Casanovas, L.; Serra Saurina, L.; Saurina Canals, M.C.; Renart Vicens, G.
    Year: 2024

  • Title: From general rejection to individual normalization: Ambivalences in discourses on intimate partner violence by young Spaniards
    Authors: Bernasconi, I.O.; Espinar-Ruiz, E.; Parra-Casado, D.L.; Vives-Cases, C.
    Year: 2024

Soo Jin Kim | Epidemiology | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr. Soo Jin Kim | Epidemiology | Best Researcher Award

Professor and Researcher, Department of Paramedicine / Eulji University, South Korea

Dr. Soo Jin Kim is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Emergency Rescue at the College of Health Sciences, Eulji University. With extensive experience in emergency medical services and firefighting, Dr. Kim has dedicated his career to improving public health and safety through both practical service and academic research. He has contributed significantly to the field of public health, particularly in areas related to emergency rescue and disaster management. 🏥🚒🎓

Profile

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Evaluation of Soo Jin Kim for “Best Researcher Award”

Strengths for the Award

Extensive Experience in Public Health and Emergency Rescue:
Soo Jin Kim’s career spans over two decades, showcasing a deep commitment to public health, emergency rescue, and disaster management. His diverse experience, from working as an Emergency Medical Technician to a Senior Researcher and now an Assistant Professor, demonstrates a robust understanding of emergency response and public health policies. This breadth of experience is vital for addressing complex public health challenges, making him a strong candidate for the award.

Significant Contributions to Research:
Soo Jin Kim has made substantial contributions to the field of public health, particularly in fire safety and emergency medical services (EMS). His research includes critical studies on the occupational health of firefighters, such as the management of firefighting protection suits and the impact of COVID-19 on EMS providers. His work has been published in respected journals, both as a first author and co-author, underscoring his active role in advancing knowledge in his field.

Leadership in Professional Organizations:
Kim’s leadership roles in professional organizations, including his position as Vice Chairman of the Disaster and Emergency Rescue Division of the Korean Society of Industrial Convergence, highlight his influence in the field. His involvement in standards and technology evaluation committees, as well as his work as a peer reviewer for SCIE and KCI journals, further solidifies his standing as a respected expert and thought leader.

Dedication to Education and Mentorship:
As an Assistant Professor at Eulji University, Kim is dedicated to educating the next generation of public health professionals. His teaching role, combined with his ongoing research activities, indicates a commitment to both knowledge dissemination and practical application, a key quality for a researcher deserving of this award.

Areas for Improvement

Expansion of International Collaboration:
While Kim has a strong presence in Korean public health and emergency services, expanding his research collaborations internationally could enhance his impact and recognition globally. This would also provide opportunities to contribute to more diverse research environments and cross-border public health challenges.

Increasing Publication in High-Impact Journals:
Although Kim has a commendable number of publications, increasing the frequency of his work in high-impact, globally recognized journals would further elevate his academic profile. Targeting journals with a broader international readership could also help in disseminating his research to a wider audience.

Focus on Grant Acquisition:
Securing more research funding, particularly through competitive international grants, could support larger, more ambitious projects. This would not only enhance the scope of his research but also demonstrate his ability to attract and manage substantial research resources.

Education

Dr. Kim holds a Bachelor of Public Health from Eulji University, a Master’s degree in Public Health with a focus on Health Policy Management from Seoul National University, and a Ph.D. in Public Health specializing in Epidemiology from the same institution. 🎓📚

Experience

Dr. Kim’s career spans over two decades, beginning as an Emergency Medical Technician at Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital and progressing through various roles within the Seoul Fire Headquarters and the National Emergency Management Agency. His experience includes emergency planning, safety training, and situation management. Since 2024, he has been serving as an Assistant Professor at Eulji University, continuing to influence the field of emergency rescue through education and research. 🚑👨‍🏫

Research Interests

Dr. Kim’s research interests include occupational health and safety for emergency responders, air quality in self-contained breathing apparatuses, and the psychological impact of pandemic-related work on EMS providers. His work is dedicated to improving the health outcomes and safety of firefighters and emergency medical personnel. 🔬🌍

Awards

Dr. Kim has been recognized for his contributions to the field of public health and emergency management through various awards and honors. His dedication to research and practical application in emergency services has been acknowledged by his peers and professional organizations. 🏆🎖️

Publications Top Notes

Dr. Kim has published extensively in leading journals. His work often focuses on the health and safety of emergency service providers. Some of his notable publications include:

Kim, S.J., Ham, S. (2024). “Associations between Recognition and Behaviors Regarding the Use, Washing, and Management of Firefighting Protection Suits and Public Health Awareness of Occupational Exposure Risks among Firefighters.” Fire. Cited by (SCIE).

Kim, J-H., Hong, J., Kim, S.J., Kim, J.Y., Kim, S-S. (2024). “People-Oriented Culture and Its Association With Burnout, Depressive Symptoms, and Sleep Problems During COVID-19 Pandemic Among EMS Providers in Korea.” Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. Cited by (Co-author).

Kim, S.J., Ham, S. (2023). “Evaluation of Air Quality Inside Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus Used by Firefighters.” Fire. Cited by (First author).

Kim, J-H., Hong, J., Kim, S.J., Kim, J.Y., Bahk, J., Kim, S-S. (2023). “Lack of Compensation for COVID-19-Related Overtime Work and Its Association with Burnout Among EMS Providers in Korea.” Epidemiology and Health. Cited by (Co-author).

Lee, J.H., Kim, K.H., Hong, K.J., Park, Y.J., Kim, Y., Kim, S.J., Lee, H.J. (2023). “Association Between Demographics, Occupational Characteristics, and Unmet Healthcare Needs for Firefighters: Secondary Analysis Based on a Nationwide Survey of Firefighters in South Korea.” Journal of Public Health. Cited by (Co-author).

Conclusion

Soo Jin Kim is a highly suitable candidate for the “Best Researcher Award” given his extensive experience, significant contributions to public health and emergency rescue research, and leadership in the field. His work has had a meaningful impact on the occupational health of emergency responders and has contributed to the safety and well-being of public health professionals. By addressing the areas of improvement, particularly expanding his international collaboration and presence in high-impact journals, Kim could further solidify his standing as a leading researcher in his field. Overall, his dedication to research, education, and public health makes him a compelling nominee for this prestigious award.

Catherine Bouchard | Epidemiology | Best Researcher Award

Catherine Bouchard :  Epidemiology : Best Researcher Award

Associate professor at the University of Montreal – Canada

👨‍🏫 Catherine Bouchard stands as a distinguished academic and researcher in the domain of Epidemiology . Holding a Ph.d in  University of Montreal his professional journey exemplifies dedication and expertise. 📚

🌐 Professional Profiles:

Education 📚

Ph.D. in Epidemiology (2014): University of Montreal, St-Hyacinthe, Canada. Eco-epidemiology of Lyme disease in southwestern Quebec – study of environmental factors associated with its establishment. 🌿🦠D.M.V. Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine (2007):University of Montreal, St-Hyacinthe, Canada, Graduate of the National Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners 2007 🐾🎓

Research Interests 🧬🌍

Eco-epidemiology, Zoonoses, Vector-borne diseases, Veterinary public health, Human-Animal-Environment Interface, Spatial and geomatic epidemiology, Risk analysis, Decision support, Population survey, Adaptation to climate change, One Health,Interventional research.

Professional Experiences 🌐🔬

Veterinarian Epidemiologist, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada (2014 – present): Optimizing surveillance of emerging tick-borne diseases (TTDs) in the context of climate change. Identifying socio-behavioral and ecological risk factors related to TTDs. Measuring changes in knowledge, behavior, and perceptions towards TTDs. Developing, implementing, and evaluating integrated interventions against TTDs. Modeling the future expansion of TTDs. Strengthening public health practices. Publishing in peer-reviewed scientific journals.Research Agent (Coordination), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Montreal University: Co-coordination of the Quebec multi-party observatory on zoonoses and adaptation to climate change. Coordinating training and knowledge transfer activities. Participating in prioritizing and identifying surveillance, prevention, and control strategies for zoonotic risks. Writing in government reports, scientific monitoring bulletins, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Participating in writing funding requests.

Key Skills and Characteristics 🔍📊

Management of Scientific Research Projects, Overseeing Field and Laboratory Studies: Includes budget management, equipment supervision, and leading teams of students and interns, Coordination of Research, Training, and Knowledge Transfer Activities: Organizing conferences, workshops, and thematic days in public health, along with university-level teaching for both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, Scientific Writing and Reviewing: Proficiency in composing and revising scientific articles, Effective Communication Skills: Listening attentively, along with strong analytical capabilities and a friendly, team-oriented leadership approach, Results-Oriented Mindset: Focused on achieving solutions and delivering results.

Chapters or online books📚

📘 Chapter: Infectious Diseases: Published in: “Health of Canadians in a Changing Climate: Advancing our Knowledge for Action”. Year: 2022 Publisher: Government of Canada 📙 Chapter: Tick-borne diseases: Published in: “Earth Observation, Public Health and One Health, Activities, Challenges and Opportunities”. Year: May 2022 Publisher: Cabi Digital Library

OTHER PROFESSIONAL IMPLICATIONS :

🔬 Canadian Lyme Disease Research Network (CLyDRN): Role: Co-director of Pillar 2, Responsibilities: Co-coordination of the “Risk reduction innovation” working group, Organizer for scientific committee/annual conference and tick symposium🕷️ Tick Expert Committee: Organization: National Institute of Public Health of Quebec, 🌐 Scientific Committee – Quebec multi-party observatory on zoonoses and adaptation to climate change, 🦠 Evaluation Committee: Organization: Research group in epidemiology of zoonoses and public health🏥 One Health Laboratory, 🐾 Director and/or Member of the Scientific Committee – Veterinary Public Health Conference 📊 Scientific Committee – Annual Public Health Day

 

Top Noted Publications by Dr.Catherine Bouchard 📚🔍:

Self-reported tick exposure as an indicator of Lyme disease risk in an endemic region of Quebec, Canada  Paper Published in 2024

Variation among strains of Borrelia burgdorferi in host tissue abundance and lifetime transmission determine the population strain structure in nature  Paper Published in 2023

The added value of One Health surveillance: data from questing ticks can provide an early signal for anaplasmosis outbreaks in animals and humans  Paper Published in 2023

Integrated human behavior and tick risk maps to prioritize Lyme disease interventions using a ‘One Health’ approach Paper Published in 2023

Behavioral risk factors associated with reported tick exposure in a Lyme disease high incidence region in Canada Paper Published in 2022

Criteria for selecting sentinel unit locations in a surveillance system for vector-borne disease: A decision tool  Paper Published in 2022

Fluralaner Baits Reduce the Infestation of Peromyscus spp. Mice (Rodentia: Cricetidae) by Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae) Larvae and Nymphs in a Natural Environment  Paper Published in 2022

An ecological approach to predict areas with established populations of Ixodes scapularis in Quebec, Canada  Paper Published in 2022

Sentinel Surveillance Contributes to Tracking Lyme Disease Spatiotemporal Risk Trends in Southern Quebec, Canada  Paper Published in  2022