Stephen Higgins | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

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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

 

Pedro Jose | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Pedro Jose | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Professor at The George  Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences, United States

Dr. Pedro A. Jose, MD, PhD, is a distinguished physician-scientist specializing in nephrology, physiology, and cardiovascular research. Born in Dingras, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, he has dedicated his career to advancing the understanding of renal function, blood pressure regulation, and cardiovascular health. With over five decades in academia and research, he has held prestigious positions at leading medical institutions, including Georgetown University, George Washington University, and the University of Maryland. His extensive contributions to medical science have earned him global recognition, including visiting professorships in China and collaborations with esteemed research centers worldwide. Dr. Jose’s work has significantly influenced nephrology and hypertension research, making him a leading expert in his field. Through his mentorship and leadership, he has trained numerous medical professionals and researchers, leaving a lasting impact on the next generation of scientists and clinicians. His groundbreaking discoveries continue to shape modern medical practices and treatment approaches.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Pedro A. Jose’s academic journey began at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, where he earned his MD degree with Magna Cum Laude honors. He further honed his medical expertise through a rigorous internship in pediatrics at Kings County Hospital in New York City, followed by a residency in pediatrics at the State University of New York Downstate Medical Center. His pursuit of specialization led him to complete fellowships in pediatric nephrology at Children’s National Medical Center and Georgetown University Medical Center. Dr. Jose further solidified his research credentials by earning a PhD in cardiovascular research from Georgetown University, where he defended his dissertation with distinction. His diverse and comprehensive educational background provided the foundation for his groundbreaking research in nephrology, hypertension, and renal physiology. These academic achievements positioned him as a leading expert in the intersection of clinical medicine and biomedical research.

Professional Experience

Dr. Jose has held numerous prestigious academic and clinical positions throughout his career. He began as an Assistant Professor at Georgetown University School of Medicine, rising through the ranks to become a full Professor of Pediatrics and Physiology. He served as the Director of Pediatric Nephrology at Georgetown University Medical Center for over a decade, significantly contributing to pediatric renal research and patient care. His expertise extended beyond Georgetown, with appointments at George Washington University, the University of Maryland, and international institutions such as Sun Yatsen University in China. He has also worked as a Visiting Scientist at the National Institutes of Health, further expanding his influence in biomedical research. Additionally, Dr. Jose has led various research centers, including the Center for Molecular Physiology Research at Children’s National Medical Center. His extensive professional experience underscores his dedication to medical science, mentorship, and translational research in nephrology and cardiovascular health.

Research Interests

Dr. Jose’s research focuses on nephrology, hypertension, and the regulation of renal function. He has extensively studied the mechanisms of renal blood flow, the role of dopamine in kidney function, and the genetic and molecular factors influencing hypertension. His pioneering work has contributed to understanding the autonomic nervous system’s role in blood pressure regulation, leading to potential therapeutic interventions for hypertension and kidney disease. His research extends to cardiovascular physiology, investigating how genetic and environmental factors interact to influence disease susceptibility. Dr. Jose’s work is widely cited, demonstrating its impact on both basic and clinical research. He has also been involved in translational studies, seeking to bridge the gap between laboratory findings and patient treatment. His commitment to advancing nephrology and cardiovascular research continues to drive innovations that shape current medical practices and improve patient outcomes worldwide.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Jose has received numerous prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his outstanding contributions to medical research and education. His accolades include distinguished professorships and honorary titles from leading institutions worldwide, such as Nanjing University School of Medicine and Henan Provincial People’s Hospital in China. He has been a recipient of multiple research grants and honors for his pioneering work in nephrology and hypertension. His scholarly contributions have also been recognized through invited lectures at international conferences and symposia. Dr. Jose’s influence extends beyond research, as he has played a crucial role in mentoring young scientists and physicians, earning him accolades for his contributions to medical education. His extensive list of achievements underscores his dedication to advancing science and medicine. Through his relentless pursuit of knowledge and innovation, Dr. Jose continues to make a lasting impact on the global medical community.

Conclusion

Dr. Pedro A. Jose is an outstanding researcher with a distinguished career in nephrology and physiology. His prolific publication record, international recognition, and leadership roles make him a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Strengthening his application with recent impactful research and highlighting translational contributions would make his case even stronger.

Publications Top Noted

  • M.D. Thompson, P. Chidiac, P.A. José, A.S. Hauser, C.M. Gorvin (2025) – 0 Citations
    Title: Genetic variants of accessory proteins and G proteins in human genetic disease
    Journal: Critical Reviews in Clinical Laboratory Sciences

  • L. Tang, Y. Shi, Q. Liao, Y. Yang, C. Zeng (2025) – 0 Citations
    Title: Reversing metabolic reprogramming by CPT1 inhibition with etomoxir promotes cardiomyocyte proliferation and heart regeneration via DUSP1 ADP-ribosylation-mediated p38 MAPK phosphorylation
    Journal: Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B

  • H. Lee, J.B. Feranil, P.A. José (2024) – 0 Citations
    Title: An Overview on Renal and Central Regulation of Blood Pressure by Neuropeptide FF and Its Receptors
    Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences

  • H. Lee, B. Amatya, V.A.M. Villar, L. Hao, P.A. José (2024) – 1 Citation
    Title: Renal autocrine neuropeptide FF (NPFF) signaling regulates blood pressure
    Journal: Scientific Reports

  • X. Zhou, X. Lin, J. Yu, J. Yang, D. Shi (2024) – 0 Citations
    Title: Effects of DASH diet with or without time-restricted eating in the management of stage 1 primary hypertension: a randomized controlled trial
    Journal: Nutrition Journal

  • Y. Tang, Z. Zhang, T. Yan, C. Zeng, J. Fu (2024) – 19 Citations
    Title: Irisin attenuates type 1 diabetic cardiomyopathy by anti-ferroptosis via SIRT1-mediated deacetylation of p53
    Journal: Cardiovascular Diabetology

  • X. Zhang, L. Liang, F. Wang, K. Chen, C. Zeng (2024) – 4 Citations
    Title: Irisin-Encapsulated Mitochondria-Targeted Biomimetic Nanotherapeutics for Alleviating Acute Kidney Injury
    Journal: Advanced Science

  • K.Z. Latt, T. Yoshida, S. Shrivastav, K. Susztak, J.B. Kopp (2024) – 0 Citations
    Title: Single-Nucleus RNA Sequencing Reveals Loss of Distal Convoluted Tubule 1 Renal Tubules in HIV Viral Protein R Transgenic Mice
    Journal: American Journal of Pathology

  • Y. Shi, M. Tian, X. Zhao, L. Li, C. Zeng (2024) – 3 Citations
    Title: α-Ketoglutarate promotes cardiomyocyte proliferation and heart regeneration after myocardial infarction
    Journal: Nature Cardiovascular Research

  • F. Zhang, I. Armando, P.A. José, C. Zeng, J. Yang (2024) – 2 Citations
    Title: G protein-coupled receptor kinases in hypertension: physiology, pathogenesis, and therapeutic targets
    Journal: Hypertension Research