Mujde Calikusu Incekar | Nursing and Health Professions |Best Researcher Awardbd268

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mujde Calikusu Incekar | Nursing and Health Professions |Best Researcher Award

Yüksek Ihtisas University, Turkey

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar is a distinguished academic in pediatric nursing at Yuksek Ihtisas University, with a Ph.D. from Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa. Her research focuses primarily on neonatal intensive care, developmental care practices, and pediatric nursing education. She has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications in internationally indexed journals, contributing valuable insights into infant care, noise reduction strategies, and nursing behavior. Actively engaged in both qualitative and quantitative studies, she has developed and validated clinical assessment tools and led research on current health challenges such as COVID-19 and war-affected children. Her work is marked by methodological rigor, interdisciplinary collaboration, and relevance to healthcare improvement. As an invited speaker at national and international conferences, she demonstrates leadership and a commitment to advancing nursing science. With a consistent publication record and a clear societal impact, Dr. İncekar exemplifies excellence in academic research and is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile 

Education

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar has built a solid academic foundation in nursing and health sciences. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Bülent Ecevit University in 2012, followed by a Master’s degree in Pediatric Nursing at Istanbul University in 2014. She earned her Ph.D. in Pediatric Nursing from Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa in 2018, focusing her doctoral thesis on innovative interventions to improve outcomes in preterm infants. In addition to her specialization, she pursued further education in Occupational Health and Safety at both Atatürk University and Istanbul University, highlighting her interdisciplinary interests. Her academic path reflects a strong commitment to improving pediatric and neonatal care through evidence-based practice. Her continuous educational advancement, including foreign language proficiency, positions her as a well-qualified and knowledgeable scholar, capable of conducting high-impact research in pediatric and neonatal health settings.

Professional Experience

Dr. İncekar began her academic career as a Research Assistant in 2013 and has steadily progressed through the ranks of academia. She served as an Assistant Professor from March 2019 until her promotion to Associate Professor in August 2022 at Yuksek Ihtisas University. Currently, she works in the Faculty of Health Sciences, specifically in the Pediatric Nursing department, where she teaches, supervises graduate theses, and leads research initiatives. Her professional journey has been deeply rooted in both academic instruction and hands-on clinical research, particularly within neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). She has also participated in curriculum development and contributes to institutional research projects. Through her leadership and dedication, she has become a key figure in training the next generation of pediatric nurses. Her experience bridges clinical care and academic research, ensuring her contributions remain both scientifically robust and practically applicable.

Research Interest

Dr. İncekar’s primary research interests lie in pediatric and neonatal nursing, with a focus on improving health outcomes for preterm and newborn infants. Her studies explore a wide range of topics including noise reduction strategies in NICUs, individualized developmental care, pain assessment, parental behavior (e.g., phubbing), and interventions during critical care. She is also involved in psychometric validation of clinical scales, examining the behavioral and psychological dimensions of pediatric nursing. More recently, her research has expanded to include the impacts of COVID-19 on neonatal care and broader public health concerns, such as sustainable practices in healthcare. Dr. İncekar is known for combining qualitative and quantitative methodologies, as well as integrating multidisciplinary perspectives into her studies. Her interest in trauma-informed care and the sociocultural context of pediatric health highlights her holistic approach. Overall, her research contributes directly to evidence-based improvements in pediatric care practices.

Award and Honor

While specific awards are not explicitly listed in her CV, Dr. İncekar’s professional record reflects multiple forms of academic recognition. Her promotion to Associate Professor is itself a notable achievement, based on rigorous peer review and scholarly contribution. She has been invited as a guest speaker at several national and international scientific congresses, such as the 32nd National Neonatology Congress and the 47th Pediatrics Days Conference, indicating recognition by her peers in the field. Her selection to present oral and poster presentations further demonstrates her credibility and the value of her research contributions. She has also played key roles in collaborative projects and continues to publish extensively in high-quality journals, a form of professional acknowledgment within academia. Dr. İncekar’s growing influence in pediatric nursing research suggests that she is a strong candidate for future honors and formal awards, particularly those recognizing excellence in healthcare research and innovation.

Conclusion

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar exemplifies the qualities of a leading academic and researcher in pediatric nursing. Her educational background, clinical expertise, and scholarly achievements have positioned her as a vital contributor to both national and international health science communities. She combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, producing research that addresses real-world healthcare challenges, particularly in neonatal and pediatric settings. Her methodological rigor, commitment to student mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaborations enhance the depth and relevance of her work. With consistent academic productivity, international publications, and a clear impact on clinical practice, she continues to advancebd268 science and improve patient outcomes. Her leadership in neonatal care and dedication to pediatric health make her a highly deserving nominee for prestigious research awards. Dr. İncekar’s career is marked by integrity, innovation, and a strong focus on child-centered healthcare—qualities that will undoubtedly continue to drive her future contributions.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Effects of a fixed-time feeding method on physiological parameters in preterm infants
    Authors: Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar
    Year: 2022
    Citation: İncekar, M. Ç. (2022). Effects of a fixed-time feeding method on physiological parameters in preterm infants. Annals of Clinical and Analytical Medicine. https://doi.org/10.4328/acam.20898

  • Title: The effect of light and noise reduction on the sleep state of preterm infants
    Authors: Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar
    Year: 2022
    Citation: İncekar, M. Ç. (2022). The effect of light and noise reduction on the sleep state of preterm infants. Annals of Clinical and Analytical Medicine. https://doi.org/10.4328/acam.21162

  • Title: Nursing Students’ Opinions About the COVID-19 Vaccine: A Descriptive, Cross-Sectional Study
    Authors: Selmin Köse, Zeynep Erkut, Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar, Sevim Savaşer
    Year: 2022
    Citation: Köse, S., Erkut, Z., İncekar, M. Ç., & Savaşer, S. (2022). Nursing Students’ Opinions About the COVID-19 Vaccine: A Descriptive, Cross-Sectional Study. Online Türk Sağlık Bilimleri Dergisi. https://doi.org/10.26453/otjhs.1048434

  • Title: Çocuk Hastalara Uygulanan Fekal Mikrobiyota Transplantasyonuna Yönelik Hemşirelik Yaklaşımı
    Authors: Tuğba Dede, Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar
    Year: 2021
    Citation: Dede, T., & İncekar, M. Ç. (2021). Çocuk Hastalara Uygulanan Fekal Mikrobiyota Transplantasyonuna Yönelik Hemşirelik Yaklaşımı. Yüksek İhtisas Üniversitesi Sağlık Bilimleri Dergisi. https://doi.org/10.51261/yiu.2021.00039

  • Title: The Effect of Noise Meters Giving Visual and Auditory Alarms Used on Reducing Noise in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
    Authors: Serap Balcı, Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar, Ayhan Taştekin
    Year: 2021
    Citation: Balcı, S., İncekar, M. Ç., & Taştekin, A. (2021). The Effect of Noise Meters Giving Visual and Auditory Alarms Used on Reducing Noise in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. The Journal of Pediatric Research. https://doi.org/10.4274/jpr.galenos.2021.97720

  • Title: The Relationship between Health-Promoting Lifestyle Behaviors and Sleep Quality of Nurses Working in the Pediatrics Clinics
    Authors: Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar, Serap Balcı, Esra Vurankaya, Beyza Tunçel, Ebru Zor
    Year: 2021
    Citation: İncekar, M. Ç., Balcı, S., Vurankaya, E., Tunçel, B., & Zor, E. (2021). The Relationship between Health-Promoting Lifestyle Behaviors and Sleep Quality of Nurses Working in the Pediatrics Clinics. Clinical and Experimental Health Sciences. https://doi.org/10.33808/clinexphealthsci.727275

  • Title: Turkish validity and reliability of the COVERS pain scale
    Authors: Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar, Nehir Ulu Öğüt, Birsen Mutlu, Eda Çeçen, Emrah Can
    Year: 2021
    Citation: İncekar, M. Ç., Öğüt, N. U., Mutlu, B., Çeçen, E., & Can, E. (2021). Turkish validity and reliability of the COVERS pain scale. Revista da Associação Médica Brasileira. https://doi.org/10.1590/1806-9282.20200863

  • Title: An Alternative Supplemental Feeding Method for Preterm Infants: The Supplemental Feeding Tube Device
    Authors: Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar, Sümeyye Çağlar, Fatma Kaya Narter, Emel Tercan Tarakcı, Ece Özpınar, Emine Demirci Ecevit
    Year: 2021
    Citation: İncekar, M. Ç., Çağlar, S., Kaya Narter, F., Tercan Tarakcı, E., Özpınar, E., & Demirci Ecevit, E. (2021). An Alternative Supplemental Feeding Method for Preterm Infants: The Supplemental Feeding Tube Device. Turkish Journal of Medical Sciences. https://doi.org/10.3906/sag-2009-323

  • Title: Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence with Humor Styles of Nurses Working in Pediatric Clinics
    Authors: Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar, Banu Yurddaş, Elif Gökkaya, Sümeyye İbrahimoğlu, Suzan Yıldız
    Year: 2020
    Citation: İncekar, M. Ç., Yurddaş, B., Gökkaya, E., İbrahimoğlu, S., & Yıldız, S. (2020). Relationship Between Emotional Intelligence with Humor Styles of Nurses Working in Pediatric Clinics. Journal of Academic Research in Nursing. https://doi.org/10.5222/jaren.2020.85856

  • Title: Bakımda Yeni Bir Yaklaşım: Travma Bilgisi İçeren Bakım
    Authors: Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar
    Year: 2020
    Citation: İncekar, M. Ç. (2020). Bakımda Yeni Bir Yaklaşım: Travma Bilgisi İçeren Bakım. Ordu Üniversitesi Hemşirelik Çalışmaları Dergisi. https://doi.org/10.38108/ouhcd.746215

  • Title: Turkish validation of the MISSCARE survey – Pediatric version
    Authors: Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar, Öznur İspir, Betül Sönmez, Melek Selalmaz, Şerife Kartal Erdost
    Year: 2020
    Citation: İncekar, M. Ç., İspir, Ö., Sönmez, B., Selalmaz, M., & Kartal Erdost, Ş. (2020). Turkish validation of the MISSCARE survey – Pediatric version. Journal of Pediatric Nursing. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pedn.2020.03.012

  • Title: The Relationship between Psychosocial Development and Liking of Children in Nurses Working in Pediatric Clinics
    Authors: Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar, Ayşe İpek Yangil, Gizem Kaya, Gamze Genç, Zehra Doğan, Suzan Yıldız
    Year: 2019
    Citation: İncekar, M. Ç., Yangil, A. İ., Kaya, G., Genç, G., Doğan, Z., & Yıldız, S. (2019). The Relationship between Psychosocial Development and Liking of Children in Nurses Working in Pediatric Clinics. The Journal of Pediatric Research. https://doi.org/10.4274/jpr.galenos.2019.23540

  • Title: The Effect of Education in Reducing Noise on Health Personnels’ Knowledge Level and Behavioral Change
    Authors: Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar, Eda Çeçen, Serap Balcı, Birsen Mutlu, Nehir Ulu Öğüt, Şahin Hamilçıkan
    Year: 2019
    Citation: İncekar, M. Ç., Çeçen, E., Balcı, S., Mutlu, B., Öğüt, N. U., & Hamilçıkan, Ş. (2019). The Effect of Education in Reducing Noise on Health Personnels’ Knowledge Level and Behavioral Change. Turkish Journal of Intensive Care. https://doi.org/10.4274/tybd.galenos.2018.84856

  • Title: Turkish Validation of the Infiltration Scale in Infants
    Authors: Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar, Suzan Yıldız, Melek Selalmaz, Veysel Kantaş, Serap Balcı, Figen Güneş Tamer, Abdullah Bülbül
    Year: 2018
    Citation: İncekar, M. Ç., Yıldız, S., Selalmaz, M., Kantaş, V., Balcı, S., Tamer, F. G., & Bülbül, A. (2018). Turkish Validation of the Infiltration Scale in Infants. Journal of Pediatric Nursing. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pedn.2018.10.011

  • Title: Noise In The Neonatal Intensive Care Units
    Authors: Müjde Çalıkuşu İncekar, Serap Balcı
    Year: 2017
    Citation: İncekar, M. Ç., & Balcı, S. (2017). Noise In The Neonatal Intensive Care Units. Hemşirelikte Eğitim ve Araştırma Dergisi. https://doi.org/10.5222/head.2017.150bd268bd28

Carol North | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Carol North | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Adjunct Professor in Psychiatry (volunteer) at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, United States

Dr. Carol North is a highly respected psychiatrist and researcher, currently serving as an Adjunct Professor in Psychiatry at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas. She has a distinguished career spanning decades in both clinical practice and academic research, contributing significantly to the field of psychiatric epidemiology. Throughout her career, Dr. North has dedicated herself to improving mental health research, with a special focus on understanding the psychiatric consequences of trauma, disaster, and violence. Her expertise is recognized worldwide, and she has made significant contributions to the advancement of psychiatry through her research, teaching, and mentorship of future researchers.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. North’s educational journey is marked by an extensive and rigorous academic background. She completed her B.S. in General Science from the University of Iowa in 1976, which laid the foundation for her medical career. She earned her M.D. from Washington University School of Medicine in 1983. Driven by a deep interest in psychiatric research, Dr. North further pursued a Master of Psychiatric Epidemiology (M.P.E.) at Washington University in 1993. She completed her postgraduate training with an internship and residency in psychiatry at Barnes Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine from 1983 to 1987. Dr. North’s academic foundation was further strengthened by an NIMH Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Psychiatric Epidemiology at Washington University, which provided her with the tools to conduct high-level psychiatric research.

Professional Experience

Dr. North’s professional experience is vast, encompassing both clinical practice and research. She began her medical career as a Medical Extern at Jane Lamb Memorial Hospital in Clinton, Iowa, in 1977. Her subsequent psychiatric internship and residency at Barnes Hospital and Washington University School of Medicine further deepened her clinical skills and expertise. Dr. North has had a longstanding association with The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, where she holds the position of Adjunct Professor of Psychiatry. Although her role is currently voluntary, she continues to contribute significantly to the academic community, mentoring students and conducting research. Her expertise is frequently sought after for both academic and clinical collaborations, and she has become a respected figure in the field of psychiatric epidemiology, particularly for her work on trauma and disaster-related mental health.

Research Interests

Dr. North’s primary research interests revolve around psychiatric epidemiology, with a particular focus on the mental health effects of trauma, disasters, and violence. Her research has explored the long-term psychological consequences of traumatic events such as natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and other mass casualty events. She is deeply interested in understanding how individuals and communities cope with extreme stress and how these experiences contribute to the development of psychiatric conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Dr. North’s work has also extended to examining interventions and strategies for improving mental health outcomes in populations affected by trauma, making her research highly relevant to both clinical practice and public health policy.

Awards and Honors

Dr. North has earned numerous awards and honors throughout her distinguished career, reflecting her significant contributions to psychiatric research. Notably, she completed an NIMH Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Psychiatric Epidemiology, a prestigious recognition in the field of mental health research. She has been invited to present her research at leading national and international conferences, further cementing her status as an expert in psychiatric epidemiology. Additionally, Dr. North has been recognized by her peers for her mentorship, with many of her former students and colleagues continuing to make substantial contributions to the field. While specific awards are not detailed, her longstanding role in academia and research positions her as a highly regarded leader in psychiatry.

Conclusion

This individual is certainly a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given their exceptional educational qualifications, extensive clinical experience, and ongoing academic contributions. However, to enhance their application, more focus could be placed on specific research achievements, leadership in research, and impactful publications. Additionally, showcasing any broader contributions to the field of psychiatry, such as public health initiatives or policy work, could further solidify their candidacy.

Publications Top Noted

  • “Learning from Hindsight: Examining Autonomic, Inflammatory, and Endocrine Stress Biomarkers and Mental Health in Healthy Terrorism Survivors Many Years Later”
    • Authors: Tucker, P., Pfefferbaum, B., North, C.S., Zettl, R., Jeon-Slaughter, H.
    • Journal: Prehospital and Disaster Medicine
    • Year: 2025
    • Citations: 0
  • “A Qualitative Narrative Study of Rescue and Recovery Workers Responding to the Terrorist Bombing of Oklahoma City’s Murrah Building”
    • Authors: Pollio, E.W., Wang, J., Randle, E., Pollio, D.E., North, C.S.
    • Journal: Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0
  • “A call to action for female front-line healthcare workers”
    • Authors: Mehta, R.M., North, C.S., Patel, H.J., Ruggiero, R.M., Adams, T.N.
    • Journal: Signa Vitae
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 1
  • “A longitudinal follow-up study of rescue and recovery narratives of Oklahoma City bombing responders nearly a quarter century later”
    • Authors: North, C.S., Suris, A., McDonald, K.
    • Journal: Journal of Emergency Management
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0
  • “A Retrospective Matched Comparison Study of Prolonged Seizures in ECT”
    • Authors: Isenberg, K., Dinwiddie, S.H., Song, J., North, C.S.
    • Journal: Journal of ECT
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 1
  • “Burnout Education: Are We Playing with Fire?”
    • Authors: Adams, T.N., North, C.S.
    • Journal: American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0
  • “War-exposed adolescents screening positive for mental health symptoms indicate a need for diagnostic evaluation to inform care”
    • Authors: Pollio, E.W., North, C.S.
    • Journal: Evidence-Based Nursing
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0
  • “A Focus Group Study of Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapy for Military Veterans Reintegrating Into Civilian Life”
    • Authors: Highfill, M.C., Cassidy, J., Lee, K., Pollio, D., North, C.S.
    • Journal: Journal of Humanistic Psychology
    • Year: 2024
    • Citations: 0
  • “Addressing Mental Health Needs Among Frontline Health Care Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic”
    • Authors: Adams, T.N., Ruggiero, R.M., North, C.S.
    • Journal: Chest
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 6
  • “Characteristics and experiences of professionals providing 9/11 mental health services”
    • Authors: North, C.S., Mahesar, S., Meltzer, K.J., Pollio, D.E.
    • Journal: Annals of Clinical Psychiatry
    • Year: 2023
    • Citations: 0

 

Małgorzata Kowalska | Epidemiology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Małgorzata Kowalska | Epidemiology | Best Researcher Award

nomination, Medical University of Silesia, Poland

Prof. Małgorzata Kowalska is a distinguished expert in Environmental Epidemiology and Environmental Health, currently serving as a professor at the Department of Epidemiology, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, Poland. With a career spanning decades, she has become a leading figure in the study of the health effects of environmental factors such as air pollution and their impact on public health. Prof. Kowalska has held key leadership roles, including Vice President of the Polish Society of Environmental Epidemiology and Secretary of the Polish Society of Hygiene. She is widely recognized for her research and contributions to the field of epidemiology and environmental health, particularly concerning the effects of air pollution on respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Prof. Kowalska’s work has not only enhanced scientific understanding but has also influenced health policies in Poland and beyond.

Profile

Orcid

Education 

Prof. Kowalska holds a Master of Science in Chemistry from the Silesian University of Technology (1983) and earned a Ph.D. in Medicine in 1998. In addition to her doctoral studies, she completed a diploma in Environmental Health from the Polish Ministry of Health in 2005 and training in Epidemiology from the same institution in 2008. She became an Associate Professor in Medicine (medical biology) in 2012 and achieved the title of Professor in Medicine (medical biology) in 2018. Her educational background is complemented by extensive training in both medical biology and environmental health, forming the foundation for her distinguished research career in epidemiology. Prof. Kowalska’s academic achievements are a testament to her dedication to advancing public health through research and education, particularly in the areas of environmental exposures and their effects on human health.

Research Focus 

Prof. Małgorzata Kowalska’s research focuses on the intersection of environmental factors and public health, specifically in the fields of environmental epidemiology and environmental health. She investigates how environmental pollutants, including air pollution (NOx, NO2), affect respiratory and cardiovascular health, with a particular emphasis on the impact of these factors on vulnerable populations. Her studies also examine the role of essential elements and vitamins during pregnancy and the health effects of exposure to environmental hazards like ozone. Prof. Kowalska’s research extends to exploring mental health and quality of life, particularly among healthcare professionals, and the use of voice technology in managing chronic conditions. Additionally, her work includes evaluating public health responses to the COVID-19 pandemic and other pressing health issues in the Silesian Voivodeship. Through her multifaceted research, she seeks to improve public health policies and interventions, with an emphasis on prevention and community well-being.

Publications

  • Determinants of the Essential Elements and Vitamins Intake and Status during Pregnancy: A Descriptive Study in Polish Mother and Child Cohort 🍼🍏
  • Seroprevalence of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies in a Random Sample of Inhabitants of the Katowice Region, Poland 🦠💉
  • Readiness for Voice Technology in Patients With Cardiovascular Diseases: Cross-Sectional Study 📱❤️
  • Acute FeNO and Blood Pressure Responses to Air Pollution Exposure in Young Adults during Physical Activity 🌫️🏃‍♂️
  • The Reliability and Compatibility of the Paper and Electronic Versions of the POLLEK Cohort Study Questionnaire 📋💻
  • The Review of Prospective Studies on Mental Health and the Quality of Life of Physicians and Medical Students 🧠👩‍⚕️
  • Assessment of Risk Hospitalization due to Acute Respiratory Incidents Related to Ozone Exposure in Silesian Voivodeship (Poland) 🌬️🏥
  • Decreasing the Impact of Anxiety on Cancer Prevention through Online Intervention 😷💻
  • Effect of NOx and NO2 Concentration Increase in Ambient Air to Daily Bronchitis and Asthma Exacerbation, Silesian Voivodeship in Poland 🌫️🌡️
  • Parental Declaration of Adverse Event Following Immunization in a Cross-Sectional Study in Poland 💉👶
  • Comorbidities in Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease among Adult Inhabitants of Silesian Voivodeship, Poland 🌬️💨

Angeles Merino | Publichealth | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Angeles Merino | Publichealth | Best Researcher Award

Nursing Department , University of Huelva , Spain

La Doctora Mª de los Ángeles Merino Godoy es una destacada investigadora y profesora en el Departamento de Enfermería de la Universidad de Huelva, España. Con una sólida trayectoria académica, se ha especializado en la educación en enfermería, particularmente en el contexto de crisis globales como la pandemia de COVID-19. Su trabajo ha sido clave para abordar los retos que la enseñanza universitaria enfrentó durante la transición abrupta a la modalidad virtual. Además de su labor docente, ha sido autora de diversos estudios sobre el impacto del estrés, el agotamiento emocional y la salud mental en los estudiantes de enfermería. Su enfoque interdisciplinario y su compromiso con la innovación educativa la han establecido como una líder en el campo de la educación en salud.

Profile

Strengths for the Award

Dr. Mª de los Ángeles Merino Godoy is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on several notable strengths:

  1. Pioneering Research Focus: Dr. Merino’s work addresses a critical and contemporary issue in healthcare education, particularly during the global health crisis induced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Her research on the transition from in-person to virtual education in nursing not only reflects her timely response to a global crisis but also establishes a significant body of knowledge that will shape future educational practices in healthcare disciplines.
  2. Innovative Approach: Dr. Merino has demonstrated exceptional leadership in innovating nursing education in the face of unprecedented challenges. Her research explores the effects of virtual learning on nursing students, identifying critical gaps in curriculum delivery, practical training, and student satisfaction. This innovation is particularly relevant for the ongoing development of e-learning models in health education and will undoubtedly have long-term impacts on how nursing is taught.
  3. Rigorous Methodology: The methodologies employed in Dr. Merino’s studies are robust and scientifically rigorous. Her large-scale quantitative studies (involving over 400 nursing students) are backed by comprehensive data analysis and carefully designed surveys, ensuring the reliability and validity of her findings. Her research not only presents clear insights into students’ satisfaction and challenges but also offers concrete recommendations for educational improvement.
  4. Impact on Educational Policy: Dr. Merino’s work has had a tangible impact on educational policy. By revealing the critical shortcomings of virtual learning environments, her findings have spurred discussions about integrating more effective online tools and hybrid learning models into nursing curricula. Her research also highlights the need for more personalized and technologically supported education during crises, which is of vital importance for adapting to future global challenges.
  5. Global Relevance and Recognition: The publications she has contributed to, such as in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health and Journal of Clinical Medicine, showcase the international recognition of her work. Dr. Merino’s research has been widely cited, indicating that her findings resonate within the academic community and beyond.
  6. Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Dr. Merino’s research is highly collaborative, reflecting her ability to work with diverse teams of experts from various disciplines such as mental health, healthcare, and technology. This multidisciplinary approach enhances the quality and scope of her studies, providing holistic insights into the challenges of nursing education during the pandemic.

Areas for Improvement

While Dr. Merino’s contributions are exemplary, there are always opportunities for growth in academic research:

  1. Expanding Qualitative Insights: Most of Dr. Merino’s research to date has relied on quantitative methods. A deeper exploration of qualitative data could complement her findings by capturing the nuanced personal experiences and emotional aspects of nursing students’ transition to online learning. Qualitative research could provide a richer understanding of how students feel about the changes in their education and how these experiences might affect their professional development.
  2. Long-Term Follow-Up: While her studies have provided valuable insights during the initial phases of the pandemic, long-term studies to track the ongoing effects of the shift to virtual learning could yield important data. This would help understand whether the issues raised, such as the lack of practical training, persist beyond the immediate pandemic period and how they evolve over time.
  3. Broader Comparative Studies: Expanding the geographical scope of her studies to include non-Spanish universities and nursing programs from a variety of socio-economic contexts would offer a broader perspective on how different educational systems adapted to the challenges posed by the pandemic. A comparative study between regions or countries with varying technological access and educational infrastructures would strengthen the generalizability of her findings.
  4. Focus on Teaching Methodologies: While her research emphasizes the technological and structural challenges faced by nursing students, a deeper exploration of how teaching methodologies themselves can be innovated for online and hybrid learning could be beneficial. Dr. Merino could focus more on pedagogical models that might specifically help bridge the gap between theoretical learning and practical application in nursing.

Education 

La Doctora Mª de los Ángeles Merino Godoy completó su Licenciatura en Enfermería en la Universidad de Huelva, donde también obtuvo su Máster en Educación en Ciencias de la Salud. Posteriormente, realizó su Doctorado en Ciencias de la Salud, con una investigación enfocada en la educación en enfermería y su adaptación a los desafíos contemporáneos. Su formación académica se complementa con múltiples cursos de gestión educativa y tecnologías aplicadas a la enseñanza. Además, ha sido parte de programas internacionales de investigación en colaboración con universidades y centros de salud de Europa, lo que le ha permitido aportar una visión global sobre la enseñanza en enfermería y su evolución frente a emergencias sanitarias. Su carrera académica y de investigación le ha permitido consolidarse como una experta en el desarrollo de nuevas metodologías pedagógicas en la enfermería.

Research Focus

La investigación de la Doctora Mª de los Ángeles Merino Godoy se centra principalmente en la educación en enfermería, con un enfoque particular en la adaptación de la enseñanza a los entornos virtuales y remotos durante la pandemia de COVID-19. Su trabajo ha abordado cuestiones clave como el estrés percibido, la salud mental de los estudiantes y la calidad educativa en situaciones de crisis. Además, ha explorado cómo la falta de interacción práctica afecta la preparación laboral de los estudiantes de enfermería, buscando soluciones innovadoras para integrar metodologías híbridas y simulaciones virtuales en el currículo académico. La resiliencia educativa y la adaptabilidad de los programas formativos frente a desafíos globales son también áreas clave de su investigación. A través de sus publicaciones, la doctora ha promovido una educación inclusiva y de calidad para las futuras generaciones de profesionales de la salud.

Publications

  1. “Nursing Education during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: Assessment of Students’ Satisfaction with e-Learning Environment” 📚💻
  2. “Navigating Perceived Stress: Experiences of Nursing Students Completing Internships during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Spain” 😰💉
  3. “The Upshot of the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic on Nursing Assistants: Evaluating Mental Health Indicators in Huelva” 🏥🧠
  4. “The influence of emotional burnout and resilience on the psychological distress of nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic” 😔💪
  5. “Work–Family Interaction, Self-Perceived Mental Health and Burnout in Specialized Physicians of Huelva (Spain): A Study Conducted during the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic” ⚖️🩺
  6. “Psychological discomfort in nursing degree students as a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic” 😟📖
  7. “Gender and Tobacco Consumption among University Students” 🚭👩‍🎓
  8. “Mobile Applications and Healthy Habits of Adolescents, a Strange Couple: Pilot Study of the Efficacy of the Healthy Jeart App” 📱🍎
  9. “Confirmatory Validation of an Evaluation Instrument for Interventions Based on the Healthy Habits App Healthy Jeart with Adolescents” ✅👦👧

Conclusion

Dr. Mª de los Ángeles Merino Godoy’s contributions to the field of nursing education during the COVID-19 pandemic are nothing short of outstanding. Her innovative research, rigorous methodology, and commitment to improving nursing education place her in the top tier of researchers in this domain. She has effectively bridged the gap between education theory and practice by identifying both the challenges and potential solutions for virtual learning environments, especially for practical disciplines like nursing.Her work not only addresses an immediate need during a global health crisis but also lays the groundwork for the future of education in healthcare professions. By advocating for more robust virtual learning tools, hybrid teaching methods, and a deeper understanding of student experiences, Dr. Merino is making a profound impact on how nursing education evolves in the digital age. She is an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award, and her research will continue to inspire positive change within academic, healthcare, and policy-making communities for years to come.

Om Kurmi | Community Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Om Kurmi | Community Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor, Coventry University, United Kingdom

🌍 Dr. Om Prakash Kurmi is an esteemed epidemiologist and public health researcher with a wealth of experience at globally recognized institutions. His work focuses on understanding the impacts of environmental and occupational factors on health, addressing pressing global health issues. Currently, he is a professor at McMaster University in the Department of Medicine, contributing valuable research to global health initiatives.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

🎓 Dr. Kurmi earned his PhD in Public Health from the University of Aberdeen, UK, in 2010. His doctoral research laid a strong foundation in epidemiology and public health, emphasizing the influences of environmental and occupational hazards on population health.

Experience

🏛️ Dr. Kurmi’s academic journey includes notable roles at prestigious institutions. He is currently an Assistant Professor in Medicine at McMaster University and has previously held positions at the University of Oxford and the University of Birmingham, where he was a Research Fellow in the Institute of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.

Research Focus

🔬 Dr. Kurmi’s research targets the intersections of environmental and occupational health with epidemiology. His studies often address the impacts of air pollution and workplace hazards on mortality and morbidity, aiming to inform public health policies worldwide. He has made significant contributions to global health assessments and evidence-building around risk factors.

Awards and Honours

🏅 Dr. Kurmi has received recognition for his contributions to public health research, including acknowledgments from major academic bodies and institutions for his dedication to environmental health epidemiology and impactful research.

Publication Highlights

“Global age-sex-specific mortality, life expectancy, and population estimates in 204 countries and territories and 811 subnational locations, 1950–2021, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic”, The Lancet, 2024, cited by numerous subsequent studies addressing pandemic impacts.

“Global burden and strength of evidence for 88 risk factors in 204 countries and 811 subnational locations, 1990–2021”, The Lancet, 2024, frequently referenced for its comprehensive analysis of health risk factors globally.

“Global burden of 288 causes of death and life expectancy decomposition in 204 countries and territories and 811 subnational locations, 1990–2021”, The Lancet, 2024, a pivotal resource in mortality and life expectancy studies worldwide.

 

Sherrie Wallington | Social Determinants of Health | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sherrie Wallington | Social Determinants of Health | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor, George Washington University School of Nursing & Milken Institute School of Public Health, United States

Short Bio 📜

Dr. Sherrie Wallington is a distinguished scholar in the field of mass communication and media studies, with a particular focus on public health communications. With extensive academic training from prestigious institutions and significant contributions to research, Dr. Sherrie Wallington has become a leading voice in the intersection of media and health disparities. Their work has been recognized through numerous awards and published in high-impact journals.

Profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

Dr. Sherrie Wallington completed a Post-Doctoral Fellowship at Harvard School of Public Health, Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, MA (2006-2009), mentored by Drs. Howard Koh, K. (Vish) Viswanath, and Karen Emmons. Their PhD in Mass Communication and Media Studies was earned from Howard University School of Communications, Washington, DC in 2006, with a dissertation advised by Carolyn Stroman, PhD. Dr. [Name] also holds an MA in Speech Communication/Public Relations (1990) and a BSHE in Communication Arts (1984) from The University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Experience 🧑‍🏫

Dr. Sherrie Wallington has a robust teaching portfolio, including facilitating HPV Vaccine Provider Training courses across various institutions in Washington, DC. They have also taught doctoral-level courses at George Washington University School of Nursing, such as NURS-8451—DE Research Practicum and Determinants of Health—NURS 8430-DE, consistently receiving high evaluation scores from students.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Sherrie Wallington’s research interests lie at the intersection of public health communication, health disparities, and cancer prevention. They focus on understanding and improving health literacy, evaluating public health interventions, Social Determinants of Health and developing strategies to address health disparities among underserved populations.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Sherrie Wallington has been recognized with numerous awards, including the George Washington Cancer Center Community Engagement Award (2023), Peer Mentor Award from the Robert Woods Johnson Foundation (2019), and the Minority Scholar in Cancer Research Award from the American Association for Cancer Research (2008). They have also received several teaching and research awards throughout their career.

Publications 📚

Dr.Sherrie Wallington has contributed significantly to academic literature. Key publications include:

Evaluating a virtual flipped classroom approach to nurse practitioner telehealth competency development (Journal of Nursing Education, in press).

Racial/ethnic reporting differences in cancer literature regarding Machine Learning vs. A radiologist: A systematic review and meta-analysis (Journal of Medical Artificial Intelligence, 2023)

Self-regulatory coping among community dwelling older adults with multiple chronic conditions (J Multimorb Comorb, 2023)

Prevalence of Food Insecurity Among Cancer Survivors in the United States: A Scoping Review (J Acad Nutr Diet, 2023)

Paid Leave for Fathers: Policy, Practice, and Reform (Milbank Q, 2022)

Faith, family, and social networks: Effective strategies for recruiting Brazilian Immigrants in maternal and child health research (J Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, 2020)