Pilar Bosque Varela | Neuroscience | Best Scholar Award

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Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela | Neuroscience | Best Scholar Award

Neurologist, PhD at Christian Doppler klinik, Austria

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela is a highly accomplished clinician-scientist specializing in epilepsy, with a particular focus on status epilepticus and neuroimaging. She has delivered numerous invited talks and oral presentations at major international conferences, including the American Epilepsy Congress, the European Epilepsy Congress, and the London-Innsbruck Colloquium. Dr. Bosque Varela has published extensively in high-impact journals, contributing significantly to advancing the understanding of MRI abnormalities in status epilepticus. Her work has been recognized with the prestigious Ernst Niedermeyer Prize from the Austrian Epilepsy Society in 2024. Committed to academic excellence, she has also pursued continuous professional development through specialized training programs such as the VIREPA EEG course. Through her research, international collaborations, and clinical expertise, Dr. Bosque Varela has made notable contributions to the field of neurology, positioning herself as a rising leader in epilepsy research. Her dedication and achievements make her a strong candidate for top academic honors.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile

Education

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela has built a strong educational foundation in neurology and epilepsy research. She has completed rigorous medical and specialized training with a focus on epilepsy diagnostics and neuroimaging, particularly using advanced MRI techniques. Her commitment to academic excellence is reflected in her completion of internationally recognized programs, such as the VIREPA EEG course offered by the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), earning 42 academic credits. Dr. Bosque Varela’s educational path combines a solid medical education with advanced subspecialty training, positioning her with the necessary skills to contribute meaningfully to the field of epilepsy research. Her early investment in both clinical and research skills has enabled her to develop a unique profile that bridges practical neurological care with academic inquiry. Her continuous learning and pursuit of excellence have equipped her to conduct high-quality research and contribute to innovation in neurological sciences.

Professional Experience

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela has amassed significant professional experience through clinical work, research, and academic contributions, primarily centered around epilepsy and neuroimaging. She has served in various clinical settings, gaining expertise in diagnosing and managing complex cases of status epilepticus. Her professional journey is marked by her participation in key conferences as an invited speaker and presenter, representing her institutions at international platforms across Europe and the United States. She is actively involved in collaborative research networks, contributing to large cohort studies and prospective investigations into MRI findings in epilepsy. Dr. Bosque Varela’s career reflects a balance between hands-on clinical excellence and academic productivity. Her consistent involvement in prestigious congresses like the American Academy of Neurology and the European Epilepsy Congress showcases her growing reputation as a clinician-researcher. Through her dual roles, she continues to impact both patient care and the scientific understanding of epilepsy, especially in acute seizure emergencies.

Research Interest

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela’s primary research interest lies in the neuroimaging and pathophysiology of status epilepticus, with a focus on developing diagnostic and prognostic tools using MRI technology. She has dedicated her academic efforts to making “the invisible visible,” enhancing early diagnosis and outcome prediction in patients suffering from acute epileptic events. Her work has explored critical topics such as the relationship between seizure duration and MRI abnormalities, hyperperfusion imaging using arterial spin labeling, and differentiation between stroke and status epilepticus using advanced imaging techniques. In addition to epilepsy research, she has contributed to understanding neurological implications of systemic illnesses like COVID-19. Her approach combines clinical neurology, imaging science, and patient-centered research to drive better diagnostic protocols. By investigating peri-ictal MRI changes and their long-term consequences, Dr. Bosque Varela aims to improve patient outcomes, refine treatment strategies, and foster a deeper understanding of epilepsy at both cellular and systems levels.

Award and Honor

Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela has received significant recognition for her outstanding contributions to epilepsy research. Notably, she was awarded the prestigious Ernst Niedermeyer Prize by the Austrian Epilepsy Society in 2024 for her groundbreaking paper titled “MRI fingerprints of status epilepticus: A case-control study.” This honor reflects her pioneering work in advancing neuroimaging techniques to better understand and diagnose status epilepticus. Beyond this, her research has consistently been selected for oral and poster presentations at highly competitive international conferences, including the American Epilepsy Congress, the European Epilepsy Congress, and the London-Innsbruck Colloquium. Her high-rated abstracts and invited speaker roles underscore the academic community’s recognition of the quality and impact of her work. Dr. Bosque Varela’s awards and accolades are a testament not only to her innovative research but also to her growing leadership in the field of neurology and epilepsy, highlighting her as a future leader in medical research.

Conclusion

In summary, Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated clinician-scientist whose contributions span high-impact research, clinical innovation, and educational advancement. Her academic rigor, professional dedication, and focused research interests in status epilepticus position her as an emerging leader in epilepsy research. With a strong record of publications, invited talks, prestigious awards, and international collaborations, Dr. Bosque Varela has demonstrated a profound commitment to advancing the understanding and treatment of epilepsy. Her work not only enriches the scientific community but also directly improves patient care outcomes, embodying the mission of translational medicine. Given her exceptional achievements and potential for continued leadership, Dr. Pilar Bosque Varela stands out as a highly deserving candidate for any scholarly recognition, including the Best Scholar Award. Her career trajectory promises ongoing contributions that will shape the future of epilepsy diagnosis and management globally.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title:
    Epilepsy and employment: A qualitative interview study with heads of human resources and occupational physicians in Austria — A call for legislative optimization according to the WHO Intersectoral Global Action Plan

  • Authors:
    M. Leitinger, C. Klampfer, L. Obermeyr, F. Schwimmbeck, E. Trinka

  • Year:
    2025

  • Citation (APA Style):
    Leitinger, M., Klampfer, C., Obermeyr, L., Schwimmbeck, F., & Trinka, E. (2025). Epilepsy and employment: A qualitative interview study with heads of human resources and occupational physicians in Austria — A call for legislative optimization according to the WHO Intersectoral Global Action Plan. Epilepsia.bd268

Fatin Atrooz | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Fatin Atrooz | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral fellow at University of Houston, United States

Dr. Fatin Y. Atrooz is a dedicated researcher and educator with expertise in behavioral neuroscience, substance use disorders, and minority health disparities. Currently, she serves as a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Houston, College of Pharmacy and an Adjunct Faculty member at the University of Houston Downtown. Her research focuses on identifying the behavioral and neurobiological mechanisms underlying substance addiction, stress, and mental health disorders. With over two decades of experience in neuroscience, genetics, and public health research, Dr. Atrooz has contributed significantly to her field through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and editorial roles. She has also been actively involved in teaching at both undergraduate and graduate levels, mentoring students, and participating in professional development programs. Her passion for scientific discovery and education continues to drive her research aimed at addressing critical public health challenges, particularly in underserved populations.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Atrooz holds a Ph.D. in Behavioral Neuroscience (2018) from the University of Houston, College of Pharmacy, where she investigated the behavioral and biochemical effects of early-life sleep deprivation in rodents. She earned her Master of Science in Biology (Genetics, 1999) and Bachelor of Science in Biology (1996) from Yarmouk University, Jordan. Her master’s research focused on the antimutagenic effects of Coumarin on chromosomal damage induced by pharmaceutical agents. In addition, she completed a Harvard Catalyst certification in Applied Biostatistics, equipping her with advanced data analysis skills in SPSS, R, and GraphPad Prism. Her multidisciplinary education has enabled her to integrate molecular biology, neuroscience, and statistical modeling to advance understanding in addiction research and mental health disparities.

Professional Experience

Dr. Atrooz is currently a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Houston, where she conducts research on substance use, addiction, and neurobehavioral disorders. She is also an Adjunct Faculty at University of Houston Downtown, teaching Genetics and Human Anatomy & Physiology. Previously, she worked as a Senior Cytogenetics Lab Technologist (2001-2009) at King Abdullah University Hospital, Jordan, specializing in chromosomal analysis and molecular diagnostics. She also served as a Research Assistant at Yarmouk University and later at the University of Houston, gaining hands-on experience in rodent behavioral neuroscience, stereotaxic surgery, and neuropharmacology. Her extensive experience in both academic and clinical settings has provided her with a unique perspective on translational research, bridging laboratory findings with real-world health applications.

Research Interests

Dr. Atrooz’s research focuses on behavioral neuroscience, addiction, and minority health disparities. She investigates the neurobiological mechanisms underlying stress, addiction, and mental health disorders, with a particular interest in substance use among minority populations. Her work involves rodent models of addiction, electrophysiology, immunohistochemistry, and molecular biology to explore how early-life stress and environmental factors contribute to addiction vulnerability. Additionally, she conducts public health research on mental health disparities among immigrant and refugee populations, examining social determinants of health and substance use patterns. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates neuroscience, genetics, and public health, aiming to develop targeted interventions to improve mental health outcomes in underserved communities.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Atrooz has received numerous awards for her contributions to research and academia. She was awarded the prestigious 2023 NIDA Diversity Scholars Network Program Award, recognizing her work in addiction research. She also received the 2023 Research Centers for Minority Institutions (RCMI) Professional Development Fellowship and 2021 Postdoctoral Fellow Travel Award from the University of Houston. Her excellence in research was recognized with the 2019 Best Oral Presentation Award (Postdoctoral Category) at the University of Houston and the 2019 Excellent Paper Award at the International Conference on Science, Technology, and Management (ICSTM) in Dubai. Additionally, she was selected for the 2016 Future Fellow-to-Faculty Award, highlighting her potential as a leading researcher and educator. Her continuous dedication to research, mentorship, and public health has solidified her reputation as a distinguished scholar in her field.

Conclusion

Dr. Fatin Y. Atrooz is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given her diverse research expertise, strong publication record, multiple awards, and commitment to minority health research. Strengthening grant acquisition, independent research leadership, and high-impact publications would further solidify her as a top-tier researcher in her field.

Publications Top Noted

  • Atrooz, F., Khabour, O.F., Almomani, F., Alfurjani, B.H., Salim, S. (2024)
    Title: Education and socioeconomic status as predictors of refugee mental health: insights from a study of Jordan-based Syrian refugee sample
    Journal: Frontiers in Public Health
    Citations: 0
  • Li, Y., Zhang, S., Tang, C., Salim, S., Wu, T. (2024)
    Title: Autoimmune and neuropsychiatric phenotypes in a Mecp2 transgenic mouse model on C57BL/6 background
    Journal: Frontiers in Immunology
    Citations: 1
  • Atrooz, F., Majd, Z., Alrousan, G., Abughosh, S., Salim, S. (2023)
    Title: Acceptance of COVID-19 vaccination in a sample of Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) Houston residents
    Journal: PLOS Global Public Health
    Citations: 1
  • Atrooz, F., Aljararwah, S.M., Chen, T.A., Khabour, O.F., Salim, S. (2023)
    Title: Understanding Mental Health Status of Syrian Refugee and Jordanian Women: Novel Insights from a Comparative Study
    Journal: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
    Citations: 10
  • Atrooz, F., Aljararwah, S.M., Acquati, C., Khabour, O.F., Salim, S. (2023)
    Title: Breast Cancer Beliefs and Screening Practices among Syrian Refugee Women and Jordanian Women
    Journal: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
    Citations: 1
  • Zeidat, S., Fatima, B., Yazdanfard, S., Abughosh, S., Salim, S. (2022)
    Title: Prevalence of Anxiety and Depression during the COVID-19 Pandemic in a Sample of Houston-Based Middle Eastern and North African Residents
    Journal: Hygiene
    Citations: 1
  • Bian, W.-J., Atrooz, F., Patel, S., Rababa’h, A.M. (2022)
    Title: Editorial: Sleep Deprivation, Circadian Misalignment and Addiction Vulnerability in Adolescents
    Journal: Frontiers in Neuroscience
    Citations: 0
  • Alrousan, G., Hassan, A., Pillai, A.A., Atrooz, F., Salim, S. (2022)
    Title: Early Life Sleep Deprivation and Brain Development: Insights From Human and Animal Studies
    Journal: Frontiers in Neuroscience
    Citations: 15
  • Atrooz, F., Alrousan, G., Hassan, A., Salim, S. (2022)
    Title: Early-Life Sleep Deprivation Enhanced Alcohol Consumption in Adolescent Rats
    Journal: Frontiers in Neuroscience
    Citations: 7
  • Atrooz, F., Chen, T.A., Biekman, B., Bick, J., Salim, S. (2022)
    Title: Displacement and Isolation: Insights from a Mental Stress Survey of Syrian Refugees in Houston, Texas, USA
    Journal: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
    Citations: 11

 

Esther Schenker | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Esther Schenker | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Director, independant researcher, France

Esther Schenker is a Swiss pharmacist and biochemist with a distinguished career in the pharmaceutical industry and biomedical research. With a PhD from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, she has made significant contributions to neuroscience and drug discovery. As a Project Leader at the Institut de Recherches Servier (France), she led major initiatives such as EU-AIMS (autism spectrum disorders) and IMPRiND (protein misfolding). Her expertise spans the design and testing of innovative compounds for neurodegenerative diseases and neuroprotection. 🌍🧠💊

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education:

Esther Schenker earned her PhD in Pharmacy from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (Zurich, Switzerland) in 1986. She also holds a Federal Diploma in Pharmacy from the University of Basel (Switzerland) and a Bachelor’s degree from Basel (Switzerland) in 1975. 🎓📚

Experience:

With over 30 years of experience, Esther has held various significant positions in the pharmaceutical industry. From 1999 to 2010, she was the Head of Biological Studies at the Institut de Recherches Internationales Servier (France), overseeing neuroscience drug discovery projects. She has also led innovative research projects, including work in neuroprotective therapies, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. As a post-doctoral researcher in biochemistry and endocrinology, Esther developed expertise in insulin signaling and receptor activity. 💼🧬🔬

Research Interests:

Esther’s research focuses on neuroscience, particularly neurodegenerative diseases, drug discovery, and neuroprotective therapies. She has a keen interest in studying protein misfolding, the molecular mechanisms behind Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, and the development of novel therapeutic compounds. Her work has influenced the advancement of treatments in neuroprotection and neuropsychiatric disorders. 🧠🔍🔬

Awards:

Esther Schenker has been recognized for her innovative contributions to biomedical research. Some of her achievements include participation in key IMI projects and leadership in successful preclinical drug discovery programs targeting neurodegenerative diseases. 🌟🏆

Publications:

Takillah S., Jérémie Naudé J., Didienne S., Sebban C., Decros B., Schenker E., Spedding M., Mourot A., Mariani J., Faure P. (2017)
“Acute Stress Affects the Expression of Hippocampal Mu Oscillations in an Age-Dependent Manner.”
Front. Aging Neurosci. Link

Rahman A, Lamberty Y, Schenker E, Cella M, Languille S, Bordet R, Richardson J, Pifferi F, Aujard F. (2017)
“Effects of acute administration of donepezil or memantine on sleep-deprivation-induced spatial memory deficit in young and aged non-human primate grey mouse lemurs (Microcebus murinus).”
PLoS One Link

Rame, M., Caudal, D., Schenker, E., Svenningson, P., Spedding, M., Jay, TM., Godsil BP. (2017)
“Clozapine counteracts a ketamine-induced depression of hippocampal-prefrontal neuroplasticity and alters signaling pathway phosphorylation.”
PLoS One Link

Artigas F., Schenker E., Celada P., Spedding M. (2016)
“Defining the brain circuits involved in psychiatric disorders: IMI-NEWMEDS.”
Nat Rev Drug Discov. Link

Deguil J, Auffret A, Schenker E, Aujard F, Lamberty Y, Bartrès-Faz D, Herrero MT, Blin O, Micallef J, Richardson JC, Bordet R. (2016)
“Conclusive Article: Sorting the Good from the Bad: The Different Approaches to Predict Cognitive Properties of New Symptomatic Drug Candidates for Neurodegenerative Diseases in Early Development.”