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

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

Sumi Lee | Nursing and Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sumi Lee | Nursing and Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Department of Nursing Science at Howon University, South Korea

Dr. Sumi Lee, Ph.D., RN, is an accomplished academic and clinical nursing professional, currently serving as an Assistant Professor at the Department of Nursing Science, Howon University. She holds a Ph.D. in Nursing from Yonsei University and has a strong background in nursing education, with prior teaching roles at several esteemed universities, including Jeonju University and Yonsei University. Her clinical experience includes patient care in the hemato-oncological department at Samsung Medical Center. Dr. Lee’s research interests focus on dementia care, particularly eating behavior management in long-term care settings, aiming to enhance the quality of life for elderly patients. With a dedication to advancing both nursing practice and education, she has contributed significantly to the development of nursing students and professionals. Dr. Lee’s work bridges the gap between academic research and clinical applications, and she is committed to improving healthcare outcomes for vulnerable populations, particularly those in long-term and community care settings.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Sumi Lee’s educational journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing her knowledge in the nursing field. She earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing from Yonsei University, one of South Korea’s leading institutions, where she conducted significant research on enhancing nursing practices for elderly patients. Her doctoral studies, which were completed in February 2023, focused on topics that have direct clinical relevance, particularly in dementia care. Prior to her Ph.D., Dr. Lee obtained a Master of Science in Nursing from Korea University, where she investigated the eating behavior management needs of dementia patients in long-term care hospitals. This thesis laid the groundwork for her future research interests in geriatric and community health. Dr. Lee also holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Jesus University, which provided her with the foundational knowledge necessary for her successful academic and clinical career. Her robust educational background has shaped her as a leader in both research and nursing education.

Professional Experience

Dr. Sumi Lee has an extensive professional background that blends research, teaching, and clinical practice. She began her career as a clinical nurse in the hemato-oncological department at Samsung Medical Center, where she provided specialized patient care, gaining valuable hands-on experience in a high-demand environment. Transitioning into academia, Dr. Lee became a researcher at the Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute at Yonsei University, where she contributed to important nursing studies, particularly in the areas of dementia care and geriatric health. She has held teaching roles at multiple prestigious institutions, including Jesus University, Jeonju University, and Yonsei University, where she taught various nursing courses such as adult nursing, community nursing, and clinical reasoning. Currently, Dr. Lee is an Assistant Professor at Howon University’s Department of Nursing Science, where she continues to shape the next generation of nurses through her teaching and mentorship. Her diverse professional experience has made her a well-rounded educator and researcher in the nursing field.

Research interest

Dr. Sumi Lee’s primary research interests are centered around dementia care, geriatric nursing, and community healthcare interventions. Her research has a strong focus on improving the quality of life for elderly patients, particularly those in long-term care settings. One of her notable areas of research is eating behavior management in dementia patients, which she explored in her thesis during her master’s studies. This work aimed to address the complex care needs of dementia patients in institutional settings, emphasizing the importance of tailored care strategies to improve patient outcomes. Dr. Lee is also deeply invested in nursing education, aiming to bridge the gap between academic research and clinical practice by developing evidence-based approaches that can be integrated into nursing curricula. She seeks to innovate and refine nursing practices, particularly in community and long-term care environments, to better serve vulnerable populations and enhance overall healthcare delivery for the elderly.

Award & Honor

While specific details about awards and honors for Dr. Sumi Lee are not explicitly mentioned, her career reflects a strong commitment to advancing nursing education and research, earning recognition in her field. Her work in dementia care and long-term care management, particularly related to eating behavior management in elderly patients, has undoubtedly contributed to improving healthcare practices. The fact that she has secured research positions at prestigious institutions such as the Mo-Im Kim Nursing Research Institute at Yonsei University speaks to the respect her peers hold for her research capabilities. Additionally, her teaching roles across several esteemed universities and her ongoing work at Howon University suggest that she is recognized for her dedication to shaping future nurses and healthcare professionals. As she continues to build her research portfolio, it is likely that Dr. Lee will gain further accolades and recognition for her contributions to nursing practice, education, and research in the coming years.

Conclusion

Dr. Sumi Lee has a strong academic and professional background with expertise in dementia care and community nursing. However, to be highly competitive for the Best Researcher Award, she would benefit from a stronger research publication record, leadership in funded projects, and increased recognition in the academic and clinical research community. If she has significant research contributions that are not listed, highlighting them would improve her candidacy.

Publications Top Noted

📄 “Impact of Modifiable Factors Associated with Physical Frailty and Cognitive Impairment Trajectory of Older Adults: Using the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging 2006–2018”

📄 “Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomization Controlled and Nonrandomized Controlled Studies on Nurse-led Nonpharmacological Interventions to Improve Cognition in People with Dementia”

  • Author: Sumi Lee
  • Year: 2022
  • Journal: Journal of Clinical Nursing
  • Writing Role: Review & Editing

📄 “Combined effects of handgrip strength and sensory impairment on the prevalence of cognitive impairment among older adults in Korea”

  • Author: Sumi Lee
  • Year: 2022
  • Journal: Scientific Reports
  • Writing Role: Original Draft

📄 “Trends of Concept Development in Nursing Published in Korean Journals”

  • Authors: Sumi Lee, Jinhae Lee, Yugyeong Hwang, Il Sun Ko
  • Year: 2020
  • Journal: Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing
  • DOI: 10.4040/jkan.2020.50.2.178

📄 “Revisiting The Meaning of A Good Nurse”

📄 “Experience of Long-term Care Workers’ Communication with Older Adults with Dementia Focused on Emotional Expression”