Karim Khaled | Epidemiology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Karim Khaled | Epidemiology | Best Researcher Award

Epidemiologist at Lebanese American University, Lebanon

Dr. Karim J. Khaled is an Assistant Professor and Epidemiologist at the Lebanese American University, with a PhD in Nutritional Epidemiology from Bournemouth University. He has over eight years of research experience and a strong academic background spanning the UK, Lebanon, and the US. His research focuses on the intersection of nutrition and mental health, with particular attention to stress, dietary patterns, and public health outcomes among women and diverse populations. Dr. Khaled has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, led systematic reviews, and secured competitive research grants. He employs advanced statistical methods such as Structural Equation Modeling and is committed to research ethics and methodological rigor. In addition to his scholarly contributions, he is an innovative educator, promoting inclusive, evidence-based teaching practices. His work reflects a global, interdisciplinary approach aimed at addressing complex health challenges through impactful, policy-relevant research. Dr. Khaled is a rising leader in the field of nutritional epidemiology.

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Education

Dr. Karim J. Khaled holds a strong academic foundation in nutrition and public health. He earned his PhD in Nutritional Epidemiology from Bournemouth University (UK) in 2022, with collaborative research involving the University of Texas and the Lebanese American University. His doctoral work focused on the complex interplay between nutrition and mental health, applying advanced statistical tools such as Structural Equation Modeling. Prior to his PhD, he completed an MS in Nutrition & Behaviour at Bournemouth University in 2017, which deepened his understanding of psychological and physiological factors influencing eating behavior. He began his academic journey with a BS in Nutrition and Dietetics from the Lebanese American University in 2015, equipping him with a comprehensive clinical and theoretical base in human nutrition. This educational trajectory has laid a strong interdisciplinary groundwork for his current research, combining clinical practice, public health insight, and quantitative analysis to address emerging issues in global health and nutrition.

Professional Experience

Dr. Khaled has amassed diverse professional experience across academia, clinical nutrition, and public health in both Lebanon and the United Kingdom. Currently, he serves as Epidemiologist at the Lebanese American University’s School of Medicine, where he provides strategic leadership in research development and interdisciplinary collaboration. From 2022 to 2024, he was an Assistant Professor at Birmingham City University, where he led curriculum development, taught undergraduate and postgraduate courses, and supervised research theses. His earlier role as a Lecturer in Nutrition & Behaviour at Bournemouth University involved course design and teaching within MSc programs. Additionally, he has practical experience from internships as a clinical dietitian and food safety inspector, which inform his applied understanding of nutrition in healthcare settings. His academic leadership is complemented by his ability to secure research funding, mentor early-career researchers, and foster a research culture grounded in ethics, innovation, and inclusivity.

Research Interest

Dr. Karim Khaled’s research interests are centered on nutritional epidemiology, with a strong interdisciplinary focus that includes mental health, dietary patterns, and public health. He is particularly interested in how psychological stress influences nutrition, especially among vulnerable populations such as women of childbearing age and international students. His work often uses advanced quantitative methods, including Structural Equation Modeling, to understand complex relationships between sociodemographic, psychological, and dietary factors. He has a deep engagement with systematic reviews and meta-analyses, emphasizing evidence-based approaches to public health nutrition. Dr. Khaled is also invested in examining the ethical dimensions of research, especially in mental health-related data collection. Other key themes in his work include community health, dietary behavior, nutrition policy, and chronic disease prevention. His cross-national research and culturally adaptive frameworks reflect a global perspective aimed at informing both academic scholarship and public health practice.

Award and Honor

While specific award titles are not listed in the CV, Dr. Karim Khaled’s career reflects recognition through prestigious appointments and competitive research grants. His selection as  Epidemiologist at a leading medical school demonstrates institutional trust and leadership acknowledgment. He has also secured multiple research grants, such as a £5,000 project on international student health and a £2,300 cross-national study on stress and diet, highlighting external validation of his research relevance and quality. His role as a Certified Reviewer for Springer Nature and Scientific Reports and his involvement as an organizing committee member for international nutrition conferences underscore professional recognition in academic circles. Furthermore, he holds Registered Nutritionist status in the UK and is a licensed dietitian in Lebanon, both indicators of his credibility and standing within the global nutrition science community. These cumulative honors mark him as an emerging thought leader in nutritional epidemiology and public health.

Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Karim J. Khaled is an accomplished academic and researcher whose work bridges nutrition science, mental health, and public health. With a PhD in Nutritional Epidemiology, international teaching experience, and leadership roles in academia, he combines rigorous scientific methodology with a passion for student development and research innovation. His interdisciplinary approach and global research perspective allow him to address complex public health challenges, particularly those affecting vulnerable populations. Through high-quality publications, grant-funded research, and mentorship, he contributes meaningfully to both academic knowledge and practical health solutions. His ongoing work continues to evolve with a focus on inclusivity, ethics, and policy-relevant outcomes. Dr. Khaled is well-positioned to make lasting contributions to nutritional epidemiology, and his commitment to education and research excellence makes him a valuable asset to any academic or research institution.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Perceived stress and diet quality in women of reproductive age: A systematic review and meta-analysis
    Authors: K. Khaled, F. Tsofliou, V. Hundley, R. Helmreich, O. Almilaji
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 105

  2. Title: A priori and a posteriori dietary patterns in women of childbearing age in the UK
    Authors: K. Khaled, V. Hundley, O. Almilaji, M. Koeppen, F. Tsofliou
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 34

  3. Title: Poor dietary quality and patterns are associated with higher perceived stress among women of reproductive age in the UK
    Authors: K. Khaled, V. Hundley, F. Tsofliou
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 18

  4. Title: Validation of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer (EPIC) FFQ for use among adults in Lebanon
    Authors: K. Khaled, V. Hundley, M. Bassil, M. Bazzi, F. Tsofliou
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 14

  5. Title: The association between a priori and a posteriori dietary patterns with perceived stress in women of childbearing age
    Authors: K. Khaled, O. Almilaji, M. Köppen, V. Hundley, F. Tsofliou
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 3

  6. Title: A Structural Equation Modelling Approach to Examine the Mediating Effect of Stress on Diet in Culturally Diverse Women of Childbearing Age
    Authors: K. Khaled, F. Tsofliou, V.A. Hundley
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 2

  7. Title: The association between perceived stress and diet quality in women of childbearing age: A systematic review
    Authors: K. Khaled, V. Hundley, F. Tsofliou
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 2

  8. Title: The Association between Psychological Stress and Dietary Quality and Patterns among Women of Childbearing Age in Lebanon
    Authors: K. Khaled, V. Hundley, M. Bassil, M. Brazzi, F. Tsofliou
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

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. 🏥🚒🎓

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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.