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.

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Top Publications

Laura Garriga-Grimau | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Laura Garriga-Grimau | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Physician at Hospital Universitari Vall d’Hebron, Spain

Dr. Laura Garriga-Grimau is a dedicated pediatric pulmonologist based at Vall d’Hebron University Hospital in Barcelona, Spain. She specializes in bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, and other chronic pediatric lung conditions. Her work bridges clinical practice, academic research, and teaching. She is actively involved in multiple international research collaborations, including the European Respiratory Society (ERS) and the Child-BEAR-Net Registry. A strong advocate for improving respiratory care in children, Dr. Garriga-Grimau has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and contributed to global studies shaping pediatric lung health guidelines. Her academic and clinical background is enriched by international clinical training in Australia and active teaching roles at the Autonomous University of Barcelona. Known for her collaborative leadership and deep scientific insight, she continues to contribute to innovation in pediatric respiratory medicine while mentoring future healthcare professionals. Her work is both evidence-driven and patient-centered, earning her a growing reputation in European and global pediatric research communities.

🔹 Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile
ORCID Profile 

🏆Strengths for the Award

Dr. Laura Garriga-Grimau has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing pediatric respiratory medicine through a blend of clinical excellence, academic research, and international collaboration. Her specialization in bronchiectasis and cystic fibrosis has positioned her as a key contributor in areas that are often underrepresented in pediatric research. She currently holds leadership roles in prominent research initiatives, such as Chair of the ERS Task Force on Transitioning Adolescents with Bronchiectasis, and Deputy Co-Chair of the Child-BEAR-Net Registry, reflecting the recognition she commands within global respiratory research communities. These roles not only highlight her scientific insight but also her ability to coordinate multinational teams and influence clinical policy development.

Her publication record is both prolific and impactful, including research in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, New England Journal of Medicine, and other peer-reviewed international journals. Dr. Garriga-Grimau has contributed to high-quality, multi-center studies and registries that address real-world challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and care models for pediatric lung diseases. Notably, her involvement in the SHIP-CT trial and the Spanish Pediatric Bronchiectasis Registry demonstrates her ability to participate in and lead complex clinical research initiatives with both academic and translational value. Her research outputs are data-driven, well-cited, and directly relevant to improving health outcomes in children globally.

In addition to her research achievements, Dr. Garriga-Grimau has actively bridged the gap between academia and clinical practice. She contributes as a faculty member in the Pediatric Pulmonology Master’s program at the Autonomous University of Barcelona and has been involved in mentoring and training future clinicians and researchers. Her international clinical exposure, including a bronchiectasis fellowship in Australia, enhances the global relevance and cultural sensitivity of her work. This combination of academic productivity, clinical innovation, and leadership in international research networks makes her a well-rounded and highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

🎓Education

Dr. Laura Garriga-Grimau completed her medical education and pediatric residency through the Spanish MIR system at the University of Barcelona, one of Spain’s leading academic medical centers. Following her pediatric training, she pursued specialized academic advancement through a Master’s degree in Pediatric Pulmonology from the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB), where she later became a faculty member. Her passion for research and respiratory medicine led her to complete a PhD focused on cystic fibrosis at Vall d’Hebron University Hospital, contributing significant findings to the field. In addition to her formal education, Dr. Garriga-Grimau enriched her academic and clinical knowledge with a training fellowship in bronchiectasis at the Queensland Children’s Hospital in Australia. Her continuous pursuit of learning, from clinical practice to translational research, has equipped her with a strong foundation in evidence-based medicine and multidisciplinary collaboration, shaping her into a leader in pediatric respiratory care both in Spain and internationally.

💼 Experience

Dr. Laura Garriga-Grimau has built an extensive and dynamic professional career in pediatric pulmonology, anchored at Vall d’Hebron University Hospital. She serves as a consultant in the Pediatric Pulmonology Department, where she treats complex respiratory conditions, including cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis. Her clinical experience is complemented by her academic involvement as a lecturer in the Pediatric Pulmonology Master’s program at the Autonomous University of Barcelona. She completed international clinical training in Australia, focusing on bronchiectasis, and collaborates with research networks such as the ERS, ERN-Lung, and Child-BEAR-Net. Her career integrates hands-on patient care with data-driven research, highlighting her ability to translate science into practice. In leadership roles such as Chair of the ERS Task Force on adolescent bronchiectasis transition and Deputy Co-Chair of Child-BEAR-Net, she coordinates multinational teams and projects. Her balanced experience across clinical, research, and educational domains establishes her as a well-rounded and forward-thinking physician-scientist.

🏆 Awards and Honors

While specific individual awards are not listed in her profile, Dr. Laura Garriga-Grimau’s numerous prestigious roles and peer-reviewed publications serve as strong indicators of her academic and professional recognition. She has earned notable leadership positions in internationally recognized research bodies such as the European Respiratory Society (ERS) and the Child-BEAR-Net network, which are typically awarded based on merit, contribution, and peer endorsement. She is a key author and collaborator in top-tier journals including The Lancet Respiratory Medicine and The New England Journal of Medicine—an honor in itself that reflects a high level of expertise and scientific impact. Her inclusion in global studies and research registries, as well as her involvement in shaping clinical guidelines, affirms her reputation in the field of pediatric pulmonology. Furthermore, her appointment as faculty at a major academic institution and her PhD achievements represent high academic recognition within both national and international medical communities.

🔬Research Focus on Medicine and Dentistry

Dr. Garriga-Grimau’s research centers on pediatric bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, and related respiratory disorders, with an emphasis on improving diagnostics, treatment protocols, and health equity in chronic pediatric lung care. She is actively involved in several major international studies and registries, including the Child-BEAR-Net Registry and SHIP-CT trial. Her research evaluates multicountry clinical variations, healthcare transitions from adolescence to adulthood, and therapy optimization for children with chronic respiratory disease. She collaborates on translational studies that influence clinical guidelines and promote standardized care across different healthcare systems. Her work particularly emphasizes underserved populations, including Indigenous communities, reflecting her commitment to inclusive, global health research. By integrating clinical experience with robust epidemiological and translational approaches, Dr. Garriga-Grimau’s research not only advances scientific understanding but also directly enhances patient outcomes. She contributes to major publications and plays key roles in shaping pediatric pulmonology’s research priorities at the European and global level.

📚 Publications Top Notes

  • First results from the international paediatric bronchiectasis registry (Child‑BEAR‑Net Registry) describing multicountry variations in childhood bronchiectasis and its management: a multicentre, cross‑sectional study

    • Authors: Laura Garriga‑Grimau; Ahmad Kantar; Keith Grimwood; Charl Verwey; Refiloe Masekela; Diane Gray; Ameena Goga; Bulent Karadag; Ela Erdem Eralp; Yasemin Gokdemir; et al.

    • Year: 2025

    • Citations: 1 (as per Scopus/ResearchGate)

  • Guiding practice principles for clinicians who work with Indigenous people

    • Authors: André Schultz; Anne B. Chang; Donna M. Mason; Julie M. Marchant; Lesley A. Versteegh; Maree Toombs; Laura Garriga‑Grimau; CRE Extended Group

    • Year: 2025

  • Bronchiectasis in pediatrics

    • Authors: Laura Garriga‑Grimau; Eva Polverino; Antonio Moreno‑Galdó

    • Year: 2025

  • Implementation of the Spanish Paediatric Bronchiectasis Registry (Child‑BEAR‑es Registry)

    • Authors: Laura Garriga‑Grimau; Verónica Sanz‑Santiago; Antonio Moreno‑Galdó

    • Year: 2024

  • Improving the Diagnosis and Treatment of Paediatric Bronchiectasis Through Research and Translation

    • Authors: Anne B. Chang; Shyamali C. Dharmage; Julie M. Marchant; Gabrielle B. McCallum; Peter S. Morris; Andre Schultz; Maree Toombs; Danielle F. Wurzel; Stephanie T. Yerkovich; Keith Grimwood; Laura Garriga‑Grimau; CRE extended group

    • Year: 2024

  • Asma (book chapter)

    • Author: Laura Garriga‑Grimau

    • Year: 2022

  • Pneumònia per Streptococcus pyogenes a l’edat pediàtrica

    • Author: Laura Garriga‑Grimau

    • Year: 2022

  • The effect of inhaled hypertonic saline on lung structure in children aged 3–6 years with cystic fibrosis (SHIP‑CT)

    • Authors: Harm A.W.M. Tiddens; Yuxin Chen; Eleni‑Rosalina Andrinopoulou; et al., including Laura Garriga‑Grimau

    • Year: 2022

  • Triple Therapy for Cystic Fibrosis Phe508del‑Gating and ‑Residual Function Genotypes

    • Authors: Peter J. Barry; Marcus A. Mall; Antonio Álvarez; et al., including Laura Garriga‑Grimau

    • Year: 2021

  • How abnormal is the normal? Clinical characteristics of CF patients with normal FEV₁

    • Authors: Malena Cohen‑Cymberknoh; Elad Ben Meir; Silvia Gartner; et al., including Laura Garriga‑Grimau

    • Year: 2021

  • Earlier clinical case reports (2012–2015)

    • Authors: Laura Garriga‑Grimau et al.

    • Years: 2012–2015

📌 Conclusion

Dr. Laura Garriga-Grimau exemplifies the rare combination of clinical expertise, academic leadership, and collaborative spirit essential for advancing global pediatric pulmonology. Her commitment to research excellence, her leadership in multinational registries and task forces, and her drive to improve outcomes for children with chronic respiratory diseases mark her as an innovator in the field. Whether through her patient care, her mentorship of future specialists, or her groundbreaking studies in bronchiectasis and cystic fibrosis, Dr. Garriga-Grimau continues to push the boundaries of pediatric respiratory medicine. Her contributions resonate not only within academic journals but also in real-world clinical settings across borders. As she builds on her already distinguished career, she remains a key force in shaping the future of respiratory healthcare for children worldwide. Dr. Garriga-Grimau is undoubtedly a deserving candidate for any accolade recognizing research excellence, innovation, and global impact in medicine.

Stephen Higgins | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Stephen Higgins | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Surgical Resident at Nebraska Medicine, United States

Dr. Stephen E. Higgins Jr., DMD, MPH, is an accomplished clinician and academician currently pursuing his M.D. at the University of Nebraska College of Medicine, with an expected graduation date of May 2025. He is a resident in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Creighton University School of Dentistry. Dr. Higgins combines extensive training in dentistry, medicine, and public health to provide interdisciplinary insights into surgical and public health challenges. Known for his academic rigor and leadership, he serves as a Clinical Instructor at Creighton University and actively contributes to academic and clinical teaching. His commitment to excellence is reflected in his numerous presentations, scholarly publications, and leadership roles within national medical and dental organizations. Dr. Higgins is especially noted for his dynamic involvement in both clinical care and scientific research, aiming to integrate cutting-edge research with clinical practice. With more than a decade of progressive academic and research experience, Dr. Higgins stands out as a dedicated scholar, committed to improving patient care and advancing medical knowledge. His work reflects a balance of clinical expertise, teaching, and research that positions him as a future leader in oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Higgins has pursued a diverse and intensive academic path, integrating dentistry, medicine, and public health. He earned his Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) degree from the University of New England College of Dental Medicine in 2022, where he also received multiple commendations for academic excellence and leadership. He holds a Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, completed in 2018, where he developed a strong foundation in epidemiology, biostatistics, and health systems research. He is currently a candidate for a Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree at the University of Nebraska College of Medicine, scheduled to graduate in 2025. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Providence College in 2012, complemented by a minor in Business Studies. Dr. Higgins also completed a post-baccalaureate program at Worcester State University, graduating in 2016. His academic foundation has been enhanced by strong performance and honors, such as his induction into Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society. This comprehensive educational background uniquely equips Dr. Higgins with an integrated approach to healthcare, enabling him to navigate clinical practice, academic research, and health policy with precision and insight.

Professional Experience

Dr. Higgins’s professional trajectory reflects a blend of clinical practice, academic instruction, and research leadership. Since 2022, he has been training as a resident in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Nebraska Medical Center and Creighton University School of Dentistry. His dual-role residency under esteemed mentors Dr. Valmont Desa and Dr. Terry Lanphier emphasizes complex surgical procedures and interdisciplinary collaboration. Concurrently, he has served as a Clinical Instructor at Creighton University, where he mentors dental students in clinical procedures, case management, and academic development. Prior to his residency, he held leadership positions as President of the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Club and Student Representative to the Research Committee at the University of New England. His clinical experience is further strengthened by licensure to practice dentistry in Nebraska, and affiliations with major national bodies including the ADA, AMA, and AAOMS. Throughout his training, Dr. Higgins has demonstrated a strong commitment to integrating patient care with academic inquiry, often taking lead roles in research projects and quality improvement initiatives. His professional experience demonstrates a commitment to excellence, mentorship, and continuous learning in both surgical and academic contexts.

Research Interests

Dr. Higgins has cultivated a broad and evolving portfolio of research interests that span clinical oral surgery, public health, and medical education. His primary research focus includes the evaluation of surgical techniques in oral and maxillofacial surgery, particularly in stability and outcomes following procedures like sagittal split osteotomies. He has explored topics ranging from dentist comfort in diagnosing oral pathology to the impact of antibiotics on gut microbiota, reflecting his interdisciplinary expertise. Dr. Higgins has co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and has presented extensively at national conferences, including the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine and the North American Congress of Clinical Toxicology. His early work in emergency medicine explored benchmarking scholarly productivity, while subsequent research examined substance abuse interventions via telemedicine and health referral systems. These interests underscore his commitment to bridging gaps between research, policy, and patient care. By integrating clinical practice with inquiry-driven research, Dr. Higgins aims to advance evidence-based approaches in surgery and healthcare delivery. He continues to develop research that is translational in nature, driven by real-world clinical challenges and guided by rigorous academic methodologies.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Higgins has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout his academic and professional career, underscoring his excellence in leadership, research, and academic performance. While pursuing his D.M.D. at the University of New England, he was awarded the prestigious AAOMS Dental Student Award, recognizing exceptional promise in oral and maxillofacial surgery. He consistently earned Letters of Commendation for four consecutive years, reflecting his high academic performance and dedication. He graduated with Honors Research Distinction, highlighting his scholarly contributions to oral health research. He also received a Student Leadership Certificate for his active engagement in student organizations and advocacy. During his earlier academic career, Dr. Higgins was inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society at Worcester State University, a distinction reserved for students of the highest academic caliber. These accolades reflect not only Dr. Higgins’s intellectual aptitude but also his capacity for leadership, initiative, and service. His ongoing involvement with national professional organizations such as the ADA, AMA, and AAOMS further reflects his commitment to the highest standards of clinical practice and professional development. These honors validate Dr. Higgins’s standing as a promising figure in academic medicine and surgery.

Conclusion

Dr. Stephen E. Higgins Jr. is a highly promising and accomplished early-career researcher whose interdisciplinary background and active research involvement make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His combination of clinical training, research leadership, and publication record reflects a deep commitment to advancing evidence-based practices in oral and maxillofacial surgery and public health.

While he is still building his publication portfolio and academic footprint, the trajectory and potential for impact are clearly evident. If the award committee values early-career excellence, breadth of contribution, and leadership, Dr. Higgins would be a very deserving recipient.

Publications Top Notes

  • Authors: Stephen E. Higgins Jr., Valmont Desa

  • Year: 2025

  • Title: Comparing the Infection Rates of Strut Versus Straight Plates in Sagittal Split Osteotomies

  • Journal: Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.joms.2025.03.001

  • Citation: Higgins, S.E. Jr., & Desa, V. (2025). Comparing the infection rates of strut versus straight plates in sagittal split osteotomies. Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joms.2025.03.001

 

  • Authors: Edwin D. Boudreaux, Stephen E. Higgins Jr., Rebecca Reznik-Zellen, Bo Wang, Gregory Volturo

  • Year: 2019

  • Title: Scholarly Productivity and Impact: Developing a Quantifiable, Norm-Based Benchmarking Methodology for Academic Emergency Medicine

  • Journal: Academic Emergency Medicine, Volume 26, Issue 6, Pages 594–604

  • DOI: 10.1111/acem.13704

  • Citation: Boudreaux, E.D., Higgins, S.E., Reznik-Zellen, R., Wang, B., & Volturo, G. (2019). Scholarly productivity and impact: Developing a quantifiable, norm-based benchmarking methodology for academic emergency medicine. Academic Emergency Medicine, 26(6), 594–604. https://doi.org/10.1111/acem.13704

 

Olga Moskalenko | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Assoc Prof Dr. Olga Moskalenko | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Candidate of Biological Sciences, Russia

Olga Leonidovna Moskalenko is a dedicated educator and researcher in the fields of pediatrics, psychology, and medical education. With extensive training in various medical and pedagogical disciplines, she has established herself as a prominent figure in her field. 🌟

Publication Profile

Scopus

Education

Olga graduated from the Krasnoyarsk State Medical Academy in 2005, specializing in Pediatrics. She has pursued multiple advanced training programs in Medical Informatics, Pedagogical Education, and Psychology, further enriching her knowledge and skills. 🎓

Experience

She currently serves as an Associate Professor at the Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, where she contributes to the Department of Histology, Cytology, and Embryology. Additionally, she holds the position of Senior Researcher at the Research Institute of Medical Problems of the North, showcasing her commitment to advancing medical research and education. 🏥

Research Interests

Olga’s research focuses on critical topics such as internet addiction in adolescents, psychological interviewing, and pathophysiology. Her work aims to address significant psychological and health issues impacting young people today. 🔬

Awards

Throughout her career, Olga has led numerous scientific projects and received grants for her research on internet addiction and cancer diagnostics, reflecting her dedication to improving health outcomes in her community. 🏆

Publications

Griffiths, M. D., & Moskalenko, O. L. (2024). Title of the Publication. Journal Name.

Moskalenko, O. L. (2021). Title of the Publication. Journal Name.

Moskalenko, O. L. (2020). Title of the Publication. Journal Name.

 

Dr. Eleni Tsianaka | Neurosurgery Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Eleni Tsianaka | Neurosurgery Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Eleni Tsianaka, Kuwait Hospital, Kuwait

Dr. Eleni Tsianaka is a dedicated neurosurgeon from Greece, currently practicing in Kuwait. She earned her medical degree from Thrace University in Bulgaria in 2004 and completed her residency in Neurosurgery at the University Hospital of Larissa, Greece. Dr. Tsianaka has a board certification in Greece and medical licenses as a specialist neurosurgeon from both the Irish and Cyprus Medical Councils. In 2017, she completed a Clinical and Research Fellowship in Spine Neurosurgery at the “N.N. Burdenko” National Medical Research Center in Moscow, under the mentorship of Prof. Nikolay Konovalov. Dr. Tsianaka was the first Greek female neurosurgeon to hold an international administrative position, serving on the EANS IM Committee from 2018 to 2022, and is actively involved in various scientific initiatives, including her role as an ambassador for the European Association for Cancer Research. In 2023, she obtained her Ph.D. in Neurosurgery, focusing on intra-cranial pressure and anatomical changes during cranioplasty. She is also pursuing a Doctorate of Business Administration in Healthcare Management at the Rushford Business School in Switzerland, supported by a Presidential Scholarship. Dr. Tsianaka is passionate about leadership, teamwork, and overcoming challenges, particularly as a woman in a predominantly male field, and aims to continue advancing her professional and personal development.

Professional Profile:

Google scholar

Summary of Suitability for the Best Researcher Award: Dr. Eleni Tsianaka

Dr. Eleni Tsianaka, a distinguished neurosurgeon from Greece currently practicing in Kuwait, exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional researcher and leader in her field. Her academic journey began with a medical degree from Thrace University in Bulgaria, followed by rigorous residency training in Neurosurgery at the University Hospital of Larissa in Greece. Dr. Tsianaka’s commitment to professional development is evident in her completion of a Clinical and Research Fellowship in Spine Neurosurgery at the prestigious “N.N. Burdenko” National Medical Research Center in Moscow.

Education:

  1. Medical Degree (MD)
    • Institution: Thrace University, Bulgaria
    • Year: 2004
  2. Residency Training in Neurosurgery
    • Institution: University Hospital of Larissa, University of Thessaly, Greece
  3. Clinical and Research Fellowship in Spine Neurosurgery
    • Institution: “N.N. Burdenko” National Medical Research Center of Neurosurgery, Moscow, Russia
    • Year: Completed in 2017
  4. Ph.D. in Neurosurgery
    • Focus: Intra-cranial pressure study and its behavior during cranioplasty
    • Institution: Medical School of the University of Thessaly, Greece
    • Year: 2023
  5. Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) in Healthcare Management
    • Institution: Rushford Business School, James Lind Institute, Geneva, Switzerland
    • Focus: Risks and crisis management in healthcare organizations
    • Status: Currently enrolled with a Presidential Scholarship

Work Experience:

  1. Neurosurgeon
    • Location: International Hospital, Salmiya, Kuwait
    • Years: Since 2018
  2. EANS IM Committee Member
    • Role: International administrative position
    • Years: 2018 – 2022
  3. Research and Scientific Activities
    • Involved in various projects leading to publications, book chapters, congress presentations, and lectures.
    • Actively engaged as an ambassador for the European Association for Cancer Research.