Kartik Bhatia | Medicine and Dentistry | Research Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kartik Bhatia | Medicine and Dentistry | Research Excellence Award 

Clinical Associate Professor | University of Sydney | Australia

Associate Professor Dr. Kartik Dev Bhatia is an interventional neuroradiologist at the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network with expertise in paediatric and adult neuroendovascular care, recognized for establishing comprehensive services in clot retrieval for stroke and intra-arterial therapy for retinoblastoma. He holds a PhD and advanced clinical qualifications including subspecialty recognition in interventional neuroradiology, fellowship of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists, and dual medical and surgical degrees, underpinning a strong academic and clinical foundation. His professional experience spans leadership of multidisciplinary cerebrovascular programs, major fellowships across leading Australian and international centres, and service as a staff specialist and consultant interventional neuroradiologist across multiple tertiary hospitals. Dr. Bhatia’s research focuses on paediatric neurointervention, stroke, vascular malformations, and innovative endovascular therapies, with influential publications in high-impact journals and contributions to key international registries. He has authored multiple book chapters and serves as a reviewer for prominent journals in neuroradiology, neurology, and stroke medicine, reflecting his standing in the academic community. His work has advanced understanding of paediatric cerebrovascular disease, liquid biopsy applications in vascular malformations, and endovascular treatment paradigms. A recipient of distinctions including a Research Excellence Award, he also contributes through editorial activities, scholarly mentorship, and active membership in multidisciplinary and professional bodies. Dr. Bhatia’s blend of clinical innovation, academic leadership, and sustained research impact positions him as an outstanding candidate for recognition.

Citation Metrics (Google Scholar)

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Top Publications

Barbara De Filippis | Pharmaceutical Chemistry | Women Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Barbara De Filippis | Pharmaceutical Chemistry | Women Researcher Award

Associate Professor | University of G. d’Annunzio Chieti and Pescara | Italy

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Barbara De Filippis is an accomplished scholar in pharmaceutical chemistry whose career reflects sustained excellence in research, teaching, and scientific leadership. With a rigorous academic foundation in pharmaceutical sciences supported by advanced research qualifications, she has cultivated deep expertise in the design, synthesis, and evaluation of bioactive molecules. Her professional trajectory includes extensive experience in academic research environments, where she has contributed to and coordinated laboratory activities, guided research teams, and played a central role in advancing innovative scientific projects. Her work spans molecular design, medicinal chemistry, and pharmaceutical analysis, contributing to the development of compounds with potential therapeutic relevance. She has been an active participant in national and international research collaborations, integrating multidisciplinary approaches that strengthen the impact and visibility of her scientific contributions. Her publication record, comprising numerous peer-reviewed articles indexed in leading scientific databases, is supported by a robust citation profile and a significant h-index, underscoring both productivity and influence within the research community. She has consistently demonstrated commitment to high-quality scholarship through ongoing contributions to the scientific literature, active engagement in research networks, and participation in scholarly dissemination. Her career is further distinguished by professional recognitions and academic qualifications that affirm her disciplinary expertise and long-standing dedication to pharmaceutical chemistry. Through her combined strengths in research innovation, academic service, and collaborative leadership, Assoc. Prof. Dr Barbara De Filippis exemplifies the profile of an outstanding researcher whose continued work promises further advancements in medicinal chemistry and related scientific fields.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Kazimierczak, P., Balaha, M., Palka, K., Wessely-Szponder, J., Wojcik, M., di Giacomo, V., De Filippis, B., & Przekora, A. (2025). Macroporous hydroxyapatite-based bone scaffolds loaded with CAPE derivatives: A strategy to reduce oxidative stress and biofilm formation. Materials, 18.

2. De Filippis, B., Agamennone, M., Ammazzalorso, A., Amoroso, R., Giampietro, L., Maccallini, C., Sağlık, B. N., De Simone, C., Zuccarini, M., Kaplancıklı, Z. A., et al. (2025). Discovery and evaluation of novel sulfonamide derivatives targeting aromatase in ER+ breast cancer. Pharmaceuticals, 18.

3. De Filippis, B., Della Valle, A., Ammazzalorso, A., Maccallini, C., Tesse, G., Amoroso, R., Mollica, A., & Giampietro, L. (2024). Azobenzene as multi-targeted scaffold in medicinal chemistry. Molecules, 29.

4. Tesse, G., Tolomeo, A., De Filippis, B., & Giampietro, L. (2024). Radiolabeled probes from derivatives of natural compounds used in nuclear medicine. Molecules, 29.

5. Maccallini, C., Budriesi, R., De Filippis, B., & Amoroso, R. (2024). Advancements in the research of new modulators of nitric oxide synthases activity. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 25.

Assoc. Prof. Dr Barbara De Filippis advances scientific innovation through the design and development of novel pharmaceutical compounds that address critical therapeutic needs and strengthen translational research. Her contributions enhance drug discovery processes, support healthier societies, and foster meaningful progress in medicinal chemistry with potential global impact.

Dr. Javier Crespo | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Javier Crespo | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Professor at IDIVAL, Spain

Professor Javier Crespo is a distinguished physician-scientist and academic leader in the field of digestive and liver diseases. Currently a Professor of Medicine at the University of Cantabria and Director of the Translational Research in Digestive Pathology group at IDIVAL, he has made significant contributions through over 400 original publications, more than 120 clinical trials, and leadership in numerous national and international research projects. With an H-index of 70 and over 30,000 citations, his work has had a profound global impact. He has played a pivotal role in national health strategies, including Spain’s Hepatitis C elimination plan, and served as President of major professional societies such as SEPD. A mentor to numerous doctoral and master’s students, he has also received multiple prestigious awards for his contributions to medicine and research. His leadership at Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital earned repeated national recognition for excellence in digestive and hepatitis care.

Professional Profile 

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Education

Professor Javier Crespo earned his Degree in Medicine and General Surgery from the University of Cantabria with an Outstanding qualification. He later obtained his Doctorate in Medicine in 1993, receiving the Extraordinary Doctorate Award for academic excellence. His formal education laid a strong foundation for a career marked by clinical rigor and academic depth. In addition to his medical qualifications, he has been accredited as a Professor by ANECA (the Spanish National Agency for Quality Assessment and Accreditation). His academic journey reflects not only excellence in performance but also an enduring commitment to scientific learning and advancement. His scholarly trajectory is rooted in a lifelong dedication to the field of hepatology and digestive pathology, with an early focus on merging basic medical science with clinical research. These formative years have played a crucial role in shaping his influential career in medicine, teaching, and research.

Professional Experience

Professor Crespo has held several prestigious positions throughout his career. He is a Professor of Medicine at the University of Cantabria and Director of the Translational Research in Digestive Pathology group at IDIVAL. He served as Head of the Digestive Service at Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital from 2010 to 2024. Additionally, he has played strategic roles in healthcare governance, including being a member of Spain’s National Strategic Plan against Hepatitis C since 2015 and coordinator of the AEEH National Liver Health Plan Challenge 2032. His leadership extends to professional societies—he served as President of the Spanish Society of Digestive Pathology (SEPD), President of the National Digestive Commission, and Secretary of the Spanish Association for the Study of the Liver. His professional career reflects a unique blend of clinical excellence, policy leadership, academic mentoring, and research management, making him one of the most respected figures in his specialty.

Research Interest

Professor Crespo’s primary research interests center around digestive and liver diseases, with a particular focus on hepatitis C, liver cirrhosis, and inflammatory bowel diseases. He has led more than 120 clinical trials across Phases I–III and participated in 15 national and 8 international competitive research projects. His translational approach bridges laboratory findings with clinical application, especially in hepatology. Under his leadership, the IDIVAL research group has produced high-impact findings in digestive pathology and liver disease progression. He has authored over 400 original scientific articles, with a strong presence in high-impact journals. His work is cited more than 30,000 times, and he holds an H-index of 70, underscoring his global influence. He is also actively involved in supervising doctoral and postgraduate theses, reflecting his dedication to advancing the next generation of researchers in gastroenterology. His research has contributed significantly to public health, particularly in the management and elimination of hepatitis C.

Award and Honor

Professor Javier Crespo has received numerous national and international awards that recognize both his scientific excellence and public health impact. Among his most prestigious accolades are the Elimination Champions 2023 International Award, granted by the Coalition for Global Hepatitis Elimination, and the International Award at the VI LIFE Forum for HCV Elimination in Lima (2024). Nationally, he has been honored with the Commendation of the Civil Order of Health, the SEPD Gold Medal, and the ACAD Gold Medal. He was also named an Illustrious Torrelaveguense in 2024. Under his leadership, the Digestive Service at Marqués de Valdecilla University Hospital received the Best in Class Award for several consecutive years for excellence in digestive and hepatitis care. His honors reflect not only scientific merit but also his dedication to clinical service and public health leadership, making him one of the most decorated professionals in his field.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Professor Javier Crespo is a highly accomplished and impactful leader in the fields of gastroenterology and hepatology. His career combines outstanding academic achievement, clinical leadership, and translational research excellence. With more than 30,000 citations and an H-index of 70, his scientific contributions have shaped current practices in liver disease treatment and public health strategies. He has held top-level positions in hospitals, universities, research institutes, and national health commissions, evidencing his multifaceted influence. Through his mentorship, he has cultivated a generation of researchers and clinicians, further extending his legacy. His work has not only garnered national and international recognition through prestigious awards but has also led to meaningful improvements in patient care, especially in hepatitis C management. Professor Crespo exemplifies the qualities of a visionary researcher, a compassionate physician, and a dedicated educator—making him exceptionally worthy of recognition such as the Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Notes

  • Carvedilol vs. propranolol for the prevention of decompensation and mortality in patients with compensated and decompensated cirrhosis

    • Authors: Not listed

    • Year: 2025

    • Citations: 3

  • Letter to the Editor: Optimizing MASLD treatment—A “lead-in phase” before resmetirom

    • Authors: Not listed

    • Year: Not listed

    • Citations: 1

  • Comprehensive Diagnosis of Viral Hepatitis in Spain: Bases for Implementation

    • Authors: Not listed

    • Year: 2025

  • Unraveling MASLD: The Role of Gut Microbiota, Dietary Modulation, and AI-Driven Lifestyle Interventions

    • Authors: Not listed

    • Year: Not listed

    • Citations: 1

  • A multisociety Delphi consensus statement on new fatty liver disease nomenclature

    • Authors: ME Rinella, JV Lazarus, V Ratziu, SM Francque, AJ Sanyal, F Kanwal, …

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 4,096

  • Host recognition of bacterial muramyl dipeptide mediated through NOD2: implications for Crohn’s disease

    • Authors: N Inohara, Y Ogura, A Fontalba, O Gutierrez, F Pons, J Crespo, K Fukase, …

    • Year: 2003

    • Citations: 2,245

  • Modeling NAFLD disease burden in 8 countries (2016–2030)

    • Authors: C Estes, QM Anstee, MT Arias-Loste, H Bantel, S Bellentani, J Caballeria, …

    • Year: 2018

    • Citations: 2,027

  • A Placebo-Controlled Trial of Subcutaneous Semaglutide in Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis

    • Authors: HSA Newsome, PN Buchholtz, K Cusi, M Linder, T Okanoue, V Ratziu, S Sanyal, …

    • Year: 2021

    • Citations: 1,673

  • Obeticholic acid for the treatment of NASH: Phase 3 trial analysis

    • Authors: ZM Younossi, V Ratziu, R Loomba, M Rinella, QM Anstee, Z Goodman, …

    • Year: 2019

    • Citations: 1,286

  • Elafibranor resolves NASH without fibrosis worsening

    • Authors: SA Ratziu, V Harrison, S Francque, P Bedossa, P Lehert, L Serfaty, …

    • Year: 2016

    • Citations: 1,217

  • Sofosbuvir and ribavirin in HCV genotypes 2 and 3

    • Authors: ER Zeuzem, S Dusheiko, GM Salupere, R Mangia, A Flisiak, RH Hyland, …

    • Year: 2014

    • Citations: 1,048

  • A Phase 3 Trial of Resmetirom in NASH with Liver Fibrosis

    • Authors: Not listed

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 983

  • Gene expression of TNF-α and TNF receptors in NASH patients

    • Authors: J Crespo, A Cayón, P Fernández‐Gil, M Hernández‐Guerra, M Mayorga, …

    • Year: 2001

    • Citations: 971

  • Advancing the global public health agenda for NAFLD: Consensus statement

    • Authors: JV Lazarus, HE Mark, QM Anstee, JP Arab, RL Batterham, L Castera, …

    • Year: 2022

    • Citations: 683

Dr. Elif Coşkun Sungur | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Elif Coşkun Sungur | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr at Ankara Bilkent City Hospital Turkey

Dr. Elif Coşkun Sungur is an accomplished cardiovascular surgeon with extensive experience in clinical practice, academic research, and medical education. A graduate of Ondokuz Mayıs University Faculty of Medicine, she completed her specialization at Gazi University in Cardiovascular Surgery. Her professional career includes key roles in both public and private hospitals across Türkiye, currently serving at Ankara Bilkent City Hospital. Dr. Sungur has contributed significantly to national and international cardiovascular research, authoring over 30 peer-reviewed articles and case reports, and presenting numerous posters and oral papers at scientific congresses. She has actively participated in and organized multiple national and international cardiovascular meetings, demonstrating leadership and dedication to scientific advancement. Her research interests span deep vein thrombosis, endovascular procedures, and open-heart surgery. With additional certifications in radiology safety and experimental animal use, and intermediate proficiency in English, Dr. Sungur is recognized as a diligent researcher and clinician committed to innovation and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Professional Profile 

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Education

Dr. Elif Coşkun Sungur began her medical journey at Ondokuz Mayıs University Faculty of Medicine, where she earned her medical degree and developed a foundational understanding of clinical medicine. She then pursued specialized training in Cardiovascular Surgery at Gazi University, one of Türkiye’s leading institutions in medical education and research. During her specialization, she gained hands-on experience in complex surgical procedures and developed an academic interest in cardiovascular science. Her education also included certification in the use of laboratory animals in experimental research and a radiation safety course for medical staff, reflecting a commitment to maintaining high standards in both clinical and research environments. These qualifications allowed her to actively participate in experimental studies and radiological practices within her field. Her comprehensive education combined academic excellence, technical skill acquisition, and adherence to ethical and safety standards, laying the groundwork for a versatile and impactful career in cardiovascular surgery and medical research.

Professional Experience

Dr. Elif Coşkun Sungur has built a strong professional profile through her service in various prestigious healthcare institutions in Türkiye. She has worked in both public and private hospitals, gaining broad clinical experience with a focus on cardiovascular surgery. Currently, she serves at Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, one of the largest and most advanced medical centers in the country. Throughout her career, Dr. Sungur has been involved in the diagnosis, surgical treatment, and postoperative care of patients with complex cardiovascular conditions. Her role often includes collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, emphasizing patient-centered and evidence-based approaches. In addition to her clinical duties, she has played an active role in hospital-based educational programs, mentoring junior doctors and contributing to continuing medical education. Her diverse experience in multiple healthcare environments has enriched her surgical expertise, administrative understanding, and ability to adapt to evolving technologies and procedures in cardiovascular medicine.

Research Interest

Dr. Sungur’s research interests are centered around innovative and practical aspects of cardiovascular medicine and surgery. She has a strong focus on topics such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), endovascular treatment techniques, and complex open-heart surgeries. Her investigations aim to bridge the gap between surgical interventions and long-term patient outcomes, with a particular emphasis on minimizing complications and improving quality of life. Dr. Sungur is also interested in the application of experimental models to better understand vascular diseases, having obtained certification in the use of laboratory animals for scientific studies. Her participation in multicenter trials and clinical case series reflects a commitment to generating high-quality, applicable medical evidence. Through her contributions to peer-reviewed journals and medical congresses, she continues to explore advancements in minimally invasive surgical techniques and hybrid approaches in cardiovascular treatment. Her research is marked by a practical orientation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a desire to improve both procedural efficiency and patient care.

Award and Honor

Throughout her career, Dr. Elif Coşkun Sungur has received recognition for her contributions to cardiovascular surgery and medical research. She has authored over 30 peer-reviewed publications, including case reports, research articles, and review papers, many of which have been presented at prominent national and international conferences. Her work has earned her accolades for both oral and poster presentations at scientific congresses. These recognitions underscore her ability to translate clinical experience into valuable scientific contributions. Additionally, she has served on organizing committees for several high-profile cardiovascular symposiums and workshops, reflecting her leadership and dedication to advancing the field. Her academic achievements have been acknowledged by colleagues and professional societies alike, and her active engagement in professional development initiatives showcases her continuous pursuit of excellence. These honors affirm her status as a respected voice in cardiovascular surgery and research, appreciated for her thorough, innovative, and patient-focused work.

Conclusion

Dr. Elif Coşkun Sungur stands out as a multifaceted cardiovascular surgeon whose career blends rigorous education, extensive clinical experience, and impactful research. With a strong academic foundation from Ondokuz Mayıs and Gazi University, she has developed a nuanced understanding of cardiovascular disease and its treatment. Her work at major hospitals, including Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, highlights her practical expertise and commitment to patient care. In the research domain, she has contributed significantly to the scientific community, focusing on DVT, endovascular procedures, and heart surgeries, with more than 30 scientific publications to her name. Her dedication is further reflected in her recognition at medical conferences and involvement in scientific committees. Dr. Sungur exemplifies professionalism, innovation, and academic rigor, making her a valuable asset to both clinical and research settings. Her career continues to evolve as she remains committed to improving cardiovascular outcomes through science, education, and compassionate patient care.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Incidentally detected sternal foramen during an urgent surgical revascularization: A case report
    Authors: EC Sungur, U Tütün, A Tekin
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 7

  • Title: Aberrant right subclavian artery (arteria lusoria) aneurysm with a Kommerell’s diverticulum
    Authors: E Coşkun, L Altınay, A Tekin, U Tütün
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 7

  • Title: Off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting in moyamoya disease: a case report
    Authors: E Coşkun, L Altinay, U Tutun, A Tekin
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 4

  • Title: Bronchopericardial fistula, an unusual complication of oxytetracycline sclerosis therapy
    Authors: A Grbolar, L Qaradaghi, Y Imren, I Tasoglu, E Coskun, T Avcı
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 4

  • Title: Entrapment of broken guidewire in the coronary artery: a rare percutaneous coronary intervention complication requiring urgent revascularization
    Authors: E Coskun, L Altınay, A Tekin, U Tutun
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 3

  • Title: Epicardial anthracosis in a patient undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery
    Authors: L Altınay, E Coşkun, A Tekin, U Tütün
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 2

  • Title: The Influence of Comorbid Conditions on Graft Stenosis in Patients with Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Operation
    Authors: T Karabag, B Kalayci, B Sahin, E Coskun, MU Somuncu, MO Cakir
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Koroner arter bypass greft cerrahisi sonrası oluşan psödotrombositopeni ve literatürün gözden geçirilmesi
    Authors: M Büyükateş, E Coşkun
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Extrapelvic intravenous uterine leiomyomatosis mimicking cardiac myxoma and deep vein thrombosis
    Authors: EC Sungur, İ Selçuk, HM Özbek, O Aytekin, NÖ Köklü, N Turhan, S Talay, …
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 1

  • Title: The relation between neurological outcomes and in-hospital mortality rates of endovascular aortic repair patients
    Authors: L Altınay, EC Sungur, İ İnce
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Does sternal cable system prevent sternal complications after revision sternal surgery?
    Authors: L Altınay, EC Sungur, A Özen, A Tekin, SA Turan, G Yiğit, U Tütün
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Endovascular treatment of popliteal artery aneurysms: A report of three cases
    Authors: E Coşkun, L Altınay, A Tekin, U Tütün
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Endovascular repair of a dual abdominal aortic aneurysm in Behçet’s disease
    Authors: E Coşkun, L Altınay, A Tekin, U Tütün
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Periferik arter hastalığında asetilsalisilik asit ve klopidogrel cevapsızlığı
    Authors: E Coşkun, VY İmren
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Surgical revascularization of a rosary bead-like coronary artery aneurysm: Case report
    Authors: E Coşkun
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 1

Gebeyehu Bulcha | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Gebeyehu Bulcha | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at Jimma University, Ethiopia

Dr. Gebeyehu Bulcha Duguma is a seasoned public health expert and researcher with over 16 years of experience in maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH), epidemiology, and health communication. He holds a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology and is currently pursuing a PhD in Health Communication and Health Behavior. Dr. Bulcha has contributed to more than 25 peer-reviewed publications, with a focus on digital health innovations, behavior change communication, and health system strengthening. His work integrates practical field experience with academic research, having served in various roles including PHEOC Coordinator, RMNCH Expert, and consultant for organizations like KOICA, KOFIH, and IMCHA. He is also recognized for mentoring young epidemiologists and developing mobile health tools such as the Ulfamijuu messaging platform. With a multidisciplinary background and a commitment to evidence-based interventions, Dr. Bulcha stands out as a leader driving impactful public health research and innovation in Ethiopia and beyond.

Professional Profile 

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Education

Dr. Gebeyehu Bulcha Duguma has pursued a multidisciplinary academic journey grounded in public health and social sciences. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health from Haramaya University and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Social Work from Jimma University. He further advanced his expertise by earning a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from Jimma University, where he developed a strong foundation in disease surveillance and health data analytics. Currently, Dr. Bulcha is a PhD candidate in Health Communication and Health Behavior at Jimma University, where his research focuses on innovative communication strategies to improve maternal and child health outcomes. His academic pursuits are deeply aligned with his professional commitments, equipping him with the theoretical and methodological tools to address complex public health challenges. His educational background reflects a unique blend of technical, behavioral, and communication expertise, making him well-suited for interdisciplinary health research and interventions.

Professional Experience

With over 16 years of progressive experience, Dr. Gebeyehu Bulcha has held a range of pivotal roles in public health. He has served as a Public Health Emergency Operations Center (PHEOC) Coordinator, leading epidemic surveillance and response, while mentoring Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP) residents. From 2016 to 2019, he worked as an RMNCH Expert, coordinating maternal-child health programs, WASH interventions, and behavioral change communication initiatives. Earlier roles include HIV/AIDS Coordinator, Malaria Coordinator, and Maternal & Child Health Expert, all contributing to his rich operational background. He has also worked with international partners as a consultant or project management member in organizations like KOICA, KOFIH, ABH, and IMCHA. Dr. Bulcha has managed several large-scale public health projects and has delivered capacity-building trainings, campaign coordination, and strategic planning, demonstrating leadership across policy, research, and community-based implementation. His career showcases a deep integration of practice, mentorship, and policy-level influence.

Research Interest

Dr. Bulcha’s research interests center on maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH), health communication, mobile health (mHealth) technologies, and epidemiology. He is particularly passionate about leveraging digital platforms to improve health behaviors and service utilization, as evidenced by his recent work on developing the Ulfamijuu mobile messaging software. His research also explores health systems strengthening, community engagement, and the use of spatial analysis and mixed-methods studies to understand public health barriers and enablers. He has contributed to more than 25 publications in peer-reviewed journals, with topics ranging from mobile messaging interventions to health information systems and social determinants of health. His research frequently adopts a user-centered design approach, ensuring that interventions are practical and culturally appropriate. Dr. Bulcha’s focus on integrating technology with behavioral science reflects a forward-thinking and impactful research agenda, tailored to address public health challenges in low-resource settings like Ethiopia.

Award and Honor

While specific formal awards are not detailed in the available documentation, Dr. Gebeyehu Bulcha Duguma’s recognition stems from his extensive contributions to high-impact public health research and programs. He has served as Principal Investigator (PI) and Co-PI on numerous funded projects supported by international organizations such as KOFIH, KOICA, and IMCHA, which in itself reflects trust in his leadership and research capabilities. His peer-reviewed publications in prestigious journals such as BMJ Open, BMC Public Health, and JMIR Research Protocols highlight the academic community’s acknowledgment of his work. Additionally, his continuous invitations to contribute as a consultant, trainer, and lead researcher on national and international projects stand as informal honors affirming his expertise. His selection to present at the 35th EPHA Annual Conference and his leadership in developing mobile health technologies further signify his status as an innovator and leader in Ethiopian public health research.

Conclusion

Dr. Gebeyehu Bulcha Duguma exemplifies the qualities of a transformative public health leader and researcher. With a multidisciplinary educational background, hands-on experience across multiple domains of public health, and a strong research portfolio, he has made significant contributions to improving health outcomes in Ethiopia. His work on mobile health interventions, capacity building, and community health systems bridges the gap between research and practical implementation. He stands out for his ability to integrate epidemiological rigor with innovative communication strategies, enhancing the reach and effectiveness of public health programs. Through numerous collaborations with international organizations, he has demonstrated leadership, innovation, and sustained impact in the field. Dr. Bulcha is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, not only for the volume and quality of his research but also for its relevance, scalability, and alignment with global health priorities. His career reflects a commitment to evidence-based practice and a vision for health equity and innovation.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: A quality assessment of Health Management Information System (HMIS) data for maternal and child health in Jimma Zone, Ethiopia
    Authors: M Ouedraogo, J Kurji, L Abebe, R Labonté, S Morankar, KH Bedru, G Bulcha, et al.
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 88

  • Title: Factors associated with maternity waiting home use among women in Jimma Zone, Ethiopia: a multilevel cross-sectional analysis
    Authors: J Kurji, LA Gebretsadik, MA Wordofa, M Sudhakar, Y Asefa, G Kiros, G Bulcha, et al.
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 53

  • Title: Effectiveness of upgraded maternity waiting homes and local leader training on improving institutional births: a cluster-randomized controlled trial in Jimma, Ethiopia
    Authors: J Kurji, LA Gebretsadik, MA Wordofa, S Morankar, KH Bedru, G Bulcha, et al.
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 26

  • Title: Utilization of key preventive measures for pregnancy complications and malaria among women in Jimma Zone, Ethiopia
    Authors: M Ouedraogo, J Kurji, L Abebe, R Labonté, S Morankar, KH Bedru, G Bulcha, et al.
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 14

  • Title: Uncovering spatial variation in maternal healthcare service use at subnational level in Jimma Zone, Ethiopia
    Authors: J Kurji, B Talbot, G Bulcha, KH Bedru, S Morankar, LA Gebretsadik, et al.
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 12

  • Title: Maternal social support and health facility delivery in Southwest Ethiopia
    Authors: A Mamo, M Abera, L Abebe, N Bergen, S Asfaw, G Bulcha, Y Asefa, et al.
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 8

  • Title: Effectiveness of a Mobile Phone Messaging–Based Message Framing Intervention for Improving Maternal Health Service Uptake and Newborn Care Practice in Rural Jimma Zone
    Authors: G Bulcha, HG Abdissa, J Noll, DA Sori, ZB Koricha
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 4

  • Title: Community’s knowledge, perceptions and preventive practices on Onchocerciasis in Jimma zone, Ethiopia, formative mixed study
    Authors: D Abdissa, Y Kebede, M Sudhakar, G Abraham, G Bulcha, T Shiferaw, et al.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 4

  • Title: Prevalence and Predictors of Contraceptive Use Among Women of Premenopausal Period in Ethiopia: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Data Analysis
    Authors: D Geleta, A Kebede, G Bulcha, H Usman, K Hajibediru, S Kebede, et al.
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 4

  • Title: Spatial variability in factors influencing maternal health service use in Jimma Zone, Ethiopia: a geographically-weighted regression analysis
    Authors: J Kurji, C Thickstun, G Bulcha, M Taljaard, Z Li, MA Kulkarni
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 3

  • Title: Effectiveness of Integrated Social and Behavior Change Communication Interventions in Mass Drug Administration Campaigns in Enhancing Knowledge, Perceptions, and Preventive Practices
    Authors: D Abdissa, Y Kebede, S Morankar, G Abraham, G Bulcha, T Shiferaw, et al.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Maternal health service utilization in the Jimma Zone, Ethiopia: results from a baseline study for mobile phone messaging interventions
    Authors: G Bulcha, H Gutema, D Amenu, Z Birhanu
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Exploring religious leaders’ experiences and challenges on childbirth at health institutions. A qualitative study
    Authors: L Abebe, Z Birhanu, N Bergen, G Bulcha, K Haji, M Kulkarni, J Kurji, et al.
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Barriers to use of institutional childbirth services: A qualitative study in the rural Jimma Zone, Ethiopia
    Authors: LA Gebretsadik, F Lakew, A Mamo, M Abera, KH Bediru, G Bulcha, et al.
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 1

  • Title: Maternal Social Support and Determinants of Health Facility Delivery in Rural Ethiopia
    Authors: A Mamo, M Abera, L Abebe, N Bergen, S Asfaw, G Bulcha, Y Asefa, et al.
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 1