Tag: Outstanding Dentistry Award

Ahmed A Holiel | Dentistry | Research Excellence Award

Published on by WSA Awards

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ahmed A Holiel | Dentistry | Research Excellence Award

Alexandria University, Beirut Arab University | Egypt

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ahmed A. Holiel is an accomplished academic and clinician specializing in Restorative and Esthetic Dentistry, with a core research focus on biomaterials, pulp regeneration, digital dentistry, and adhesive restorative systems. He earned his Bachelor’s degree with honors from the Faculty of Dentistry, Alexandria University, followed by a Master’s and Ph.D. in Restorative & Esthetic Dentistry from the same institution. Notably, he became the first researcher at Alexandria University’s Faculty of Dentistry to be exempted from Ph.D. thesis defense after publishing two articles in top-tier ISI journals. Dr. Holiel has progressed through a solid academic career pathway, beginning as a Demonstrator and later assuming roles as Assistant Lecturer and Lecturer at Alexandria University. He currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Restorative & Esthetic Dentistry at Beirut Arab University, Lebanon. He has also contributed internationally as a visiting lecturer at multiple institutions, including the Arab Academy for Science, Technology & Maritime Transport. His contributions to research are significant, with numerous peer-reviewed publications in well-recognized journals covering tissue engineering, biomimetic materials, laser dentistry, pulp regeneration, and emerging technologies in dental science. His work includes multiple clinical trials, in vitro studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and innovation-driven translational research. He also serves as a peer reviewer for leading scholarly journals and acts as Guest and Lead Editor for notable international journals, demonstrating his expertise and academic leadership. Dr. Holiel’s teaching portfolio includes undergraduate, postgraduate, and international credit-hour programs, with roles as course director and coordinator in various operative and esthetic dentistry modules. His clinical experience extends to digital workflows, CAD/CAM systems, smile design, and laser-assisted restorative procedures. A recipient of several distinctions, including the Egyptian Hatton Award and multiple institutional recognitions, Dr. Holiel is an active member of global professional bodies such as the International Association for Dental Research (IADR) and the Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Society.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Grawish, M. E., Grawish, L. M., Grawish, H. M., Grawish, M. M., Holiel, A. A., Sultan, N., … (2022). Demineralized dentin matrix for dental and alveolar bone tissues regeneration: An innovative scope review. Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, 19(4), 687–701.

Holiel, A. A., Mahmoud, E. M., Abdel-Fattah, W. M., & Kawana, K. Y. (2021). Histological evaluation of the regenerative potential of a novel treated dentin matrix hydrogel in direct pulp capping. Clinical Oral Investigations, 25(4), 2101–2112.

Holiel, A. A., Mahmoud, E. M., & Abdel-Fattah, W. M. (2021). Tomographic evaluation of direct pulp capping using a novel injectable treated dentin matrix hydrogel: A 2-year randomized controlled clinical trial. Clinical Oral Investigations, 25(7), 4621–4634.

Morsy, N., & Holiel, A. A. (2023). Color difference for shade determination with visual and instrumental methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Systematic Reviews, 12(1), 95.

Abbassy, K. M., Elmahy, W. A., & Holiel, A. A. (2023). Evaluation of the proximal contact tightness in class II resin composite restorations using different contact forming instruments: A 1-year randomized controlled clinical trial. BMC Oral Health, 23(1), 729.

Aurore Sajust de Bergues de Escalup | Medicine and Dentistry | Research Excellence Award

Published on by WSA Awards

Mrs. Aurore Sajust de Bergues de Escalup | Medicine and Dentistry | Research Excellence Award

Fondation Adolphe de Rothschild Hospital | France

Dr. Aurore Sajust de Bergues de Escalup is a radiology resident specializing in advanced neuroimaging, thoracic imaging, and musculoskeletal diagnostic modalities, with a growing research portfolio in artificial intelligence–enhanced medical imaging. She is currently completing the advanced phase of her radiology residency at the Hôpital Fondation Adolphe de Rothschild, focusing on neuroradiology and head-and-neck imaging, while simultaneously advancing her research interests in biomedical image analysis and quantitative MRI. Dr. Sajust de Bergues de Escalup holds a Master’s degree in Biomedical Engineering (BioImaging Specialization), awarded with honors, and completed at the PARCC laboratory (Inserm UMR 970). She was awarded the Année Recherche scholarship (ARS), supporting her contributions to translational imaging research. Her academic foundation includes competitive rankings in French national medical examinations (PACES rank: 52; ECN rank: 1227) and early international scientific exposure through her participation in the Biomed Research Academy at the University of Pennsylvania. Her recent peer-reviewed publications reflect an interdisciplinary approach combining clinical expertise and innovation. These include studies on synthetic MRI for optic nerve pathology, deep learning–based MRI reconstruction techniques, and CT phenotypes of interstitial lung disease in autoimmune disorders. Collectively, her work contributes to improving diagnostic accuracy, reducing scan times, and advancing precision imaging in ophthalmologic and thoracic conditions. Her collaborations span multiple major French academic hospitals, including Hôpital Robert-Debré, Hôpital Henri-Mondor, Hôpital Bichat, and the Hôpital de la Timone. Fluent in French and English, she has developed both clinical and research experience across pediatric radiology, emergency imaging, cardiothoracic radiology, and uro-gynecological imaging. Her long-term vision is to contribute to the integration of artificial intelligence and quantitative imaging biomarkers to enhance clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes in neuroradiology and systemic disease evaluation.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Sajust de Bergues de Escalup, A., Lecler, A., Poirion, É., Papeix, C., Deschamps, R., Milea, D., Savatovsky, J., Duron, L., & O’Shaughnessy, E. (2025). Deep learning-based image reconstruction significantly improves image quality of MRI examinations of the orbit at 3 Tesla. Diagnostic and Interventional Imaging.

Sajust de Bergues de Escalup, A., Duron, L., Koskas, P., Poirion, É., Papeix, C., Deschamps, R., Milea, D., O’Shaughnessy, E., Savatovsky, J., Fournier, L., et al. (2025). Synthetic MRI for detecting abnormal signals in the optic nerves. Investigative Radiology

Hsien-Hao Huang | Medicine and Dentistry | Excellence in Research Award

Published on by WSA Awards

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Hsien-Hao Huang | Medicine and Dentistry | Excellence in Research Award

Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine | Taiwan

Dr. Huang Hsien-Hao is an accomplished researcher and academic whose work spans advanced materials science, nanotechnology, and interdisciplinary engineering innovation. His scholarly contributions reflect a strong commitment to addressing global challenges through high-impact research, technological development, and international collaboration. Over the course of his career, Dr. Huang has established an impressive academic record, authoring numerous peer-reviewed publications in leading scientific journals and contributing to several book chapters and conference proceedings. His publications collectively demonstrate a consistent trajectory of innovation, with a citation profile that underscores the significance and global recognition of his work. Dr. Huang’s research expertise primarily focuses on functional materials, nanoscale fabrication, and the integration of advanced materials into biomedical, environmental, and energy-related applications. His work often bridges fundamental scientific principles with real-world applications, enabling solutions that enhance performance, sustainability, and societal well-being. Through his leadership in multidisciplinary projects, Dr. Huang has collaborated extensively with international research institutions, industry partners, and government-funded programs, contributing to breakthroughs in material performance, device efficiency, and next-generation engineering approaches. In recognition of his research excellence, Dr. Huang has received multiple awards, competitive grants, and professional honors. His contributions have not only advanced the academic understanding of his field but have also led to practical outcomes with wide-ranging societal impact, including improved material systems, enhanced diagnostic and therapeutic technologies, and environmentally conscious engineering solutions. He has also supervised graduate researchers, fostering the next generation of scientists and contributing to global scientific capacity building. Dr. Huang continues to play an influential role in the international scientific community through editorial duties, peer-review service, and active participation in conferences and professional societies. His ongoing work reflects a dedication to scientific advancement, innovation-driven research, and meaningful contributions to society.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. Predicting high-risk return at emergency department presentation for patients who undergo short-term revisits: The HANDLE-24 score. (2025). BMC Emergency Medicine.
  2. Association between intrinsic capacity and hospital admission among older adults in the emergency department. (2025). Journal of Applied Gerontology.
  3. Risk factors for mortality among patients with splenic infarction in the emergency department. (2025). Journal of the Formosan Medical Association.
  4. Sarcopenia-related changes in serum GLP-1 level affect myogenic differentiation. (2024). Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle.
  5. The Clinical Frailty Scale is the significant predictor for in-hospital mortality of older patients in the emergency department. (2024). Letter.

 

Bo Wan | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by WSA Awards

Dr. Bo Wan | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China

Dr. Bo Wan is an emerging clinician–scientist in the field of ophthalmology, recognized for his strong commitment to advancing clinical practice and research related to myopia, cataract, and retinal disorders. With several years of experience as an ophthalmologist in a leading medical institution, he has developed extensive competence in the diagnosis, management, and surgical treatment of common and complex ocular diseases. His clinical work is characterized by precision, rigorous reasoning, and patient-centered decision-making, contributing to improved visual outcomes and enhanced quality of life for diverse patient populations. In parallel with his clinical responsibilities, Dr. Wan has maintained an active engagement in academic research, focusing on evidence-based approaches to ophthalmic disorders and exploring strategies for disease prevention and early intervention. He has authored 2 scholarly documents, which together have received 19 citations and an h-index of 1, reflecting the early but growing influence of his research contributions. His work demonstrates a consistent interest in the integration of clinical insights with scientific inquiry, and he has collaborated with colleagues across medical and academic settings to advance shared research goals. These collaborations have supported the development of multidisciplinary perspectives that enrich both clinical practice and investigative rigor. Dr. Wan’s scholarly activities reflect a broader commitment to public health and societal benefit. By contributing to improved diagnostic accuracy and more effective therapeutic pathways in ophthalmology, his work supports long-term visual health and addresses the rising global challenges of myopia and age-related ocular diseases. He is dedicated to continuous professional development and intends to expand his research output, strengthen international collaborations, and contribute to high-impact studies that can influence global ophthalmic guidelines and clinical standards. With a strong foundation in clinical practice, disciplined research habits, and a clear vision for future growth, Dr. Bo Wan is well positioned to make meaningful and sustained contributions to ophthalmic science and global eye health.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

  1. (2024). Parallel comparison of ocular metrics in non-human primates with high myopia by LS900, ultrasonography and MRI-based 3D reconstruction. Experimental Eye Research.

 

Shaobing Hua | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Innovation Award

Published on by WSA Awards

Prof. Dr. Shaobing Hua | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Innovation Award

Hangzhou Dalton Biosciences Ltd | China

Prof. Dr. Shaobing Hua is a distinguished biomedical scientist and innovator whose career spans more than three decades of impactful contributions to molecular biology, therapeutic antibody discovery, and advanced diagnostic technologies. Trained as a molecular biologist with postdoctoral experience at leading U.S. research institutions, he has played a pivotal role in translating fundamental discoveries into clinically deployable solutions. His early work advanced the understanding of signal transduction, proteasome regulation, and gene expression in protozoan parasites, laying the foundation for subsequent research in therapeutic antibody platforms, which led to multiple U.S. and international patents for novel humanized antibodies and high-throughput screening methods. Prof. Hua is widely recognized for developing next-generation hybrid capture technologies and innovative HPV testing platforms that have transformed cervical cancer screening, particularly in resource-limited settings. Under his scientific leadership, DALTON BioSciences has introduced a suite of diagnostic products for cervical cancer, endometrial carcinoma, pre-eclampsia, and vaginitis, contributing to the health of nearly 30 million women. His portfolio includes over 30 peer-reviewed publications in journals such as Journal of Biological Chemistry, Clinical Cancer Research, Protein Science, and Oncogene, and several dozens of patents granted in the United States, China, and the PCT system. His work has been cited widely by researchers across molecular diagnostics, oncology, and immunotechnology. Throughout his career, Prof. Hua has collaborated extensively with major clinical institutions, including leading hospitals affiliated with Zhejiang University, Peking University, the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and several provincial oncology centers. He has served in key roles in national research programs, including China’s 863 Program, national key research plans, and major public health initiatives focused on cervical cancer elimination. His contributions have significantly advanced women’s health diagnostics, strengthened public health infrastructures, and accelerated the global adoption of innovative molecular screening technologies. Prof. Hua’s research, leadership, and translational impact continue to shape the future of precision diagnostics and global health innovation.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Liu, S., Han, B., Jin, D. Q., Li, L. W., Ge, T. T., Shou, Y. J., Ye, J. M., Zhang, L., & Hua, S. B. (2025). Design and development of a target amplification-free microfluidic platform for multiplex nucleic acids detection: A new generation of hybrid capture immunoassay. Journal of Medical Virology.

Ding, L., Lin, Y. H., Azam, M., Sheridan, J., Wei, S., Gupta, G., Singh, R. K., Pauling, M. H., Chu, A., Tran, A., Yu, N., Hu, J., Wang, W., Long, H., Xiang, D., Zhu, L., & Hua, S. B. (2010). Generation of high-affinity fully human anti-human interleukin-8 antibodies from its cDNA by two-hybrid screening and affinity maturation in yeast. Protein Science, 19, 1957–1966.

Vaday, G. G., Hua, S. B., Peehl, D. M., Pauling, M. H., Lin, Y. H., Zhu, L., Lawrence, D. M., Foda, H. D., & Zucker, S. (2004). CXCR4 and CXCL12 (SDF-1) in prostate cancer: Inhibitory effects of human single-chain Fv antibodies. Clinical Cancer Research, 10, 5630–5639.

Xia, C., Ma, W., Wang, F., Hua, S. B., & Liu, M. (2001). Identification of a prostate-specific G-protein coupled receptor in prostate cancer. Oncogene, 20, 5903–5907.

Xia, C., Bao, Z., Tabassam, F., Ma, W., Qiu, M., Hua, S. B., & Liu, M. (2000). GCIP, a novel human Grap2 and Cyclin D interacting protein, regulates E2F-mediated transcriptional activity. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 275, 20942–20948.

Divya Raja | Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by WSA Awards

Dr. Divya Raja | Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Saveetha dental college and hospital | India

Dr. Divya Raja is an accomplished General Dentist whose career reflects a harmonious blend of clinical expertise, academic engagement, and public health contribution. With over six years of professional experience, she has established herself as a skilled practitioner in restorative, conservative, and surgical dentistry. Having completed her Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) at Sri Venkateshwara Dental College and Hospital, Chennai, she further honed her skills through advanced training at Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore—earning both a Certificate and a Fellowship in Advanced General Dentistry. Her tenure at CMC, a globally recognized healthcare institution, enabled her to gain extensive experience in managing a wide range of dental and oral health conditions, including root canal therapy, impactions, apicoectomies, cyst enucleations, and maxillofacial emergencies. Beyond clinical practice, Dr. Raja has actively contributed to research and academic discourse. She served as a Clinical Research Officer in the Government of India’s Department of Biotechnology (DBT)-funded project “Genomic Surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 in India (INSACOG)” at CMC Vellore, bridging dentistry with biomedical research and public health genomics. Her publication, “Atypical Presentation of Lobular Capillary Hemangioma of the Maxillary Alveolus: A Case Report” in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, showcases her analytical and documentation skills in clinical case reporting. In addition, she has participated in major academic platforms, including the World Dental Congress and the World Head and Neck Cancer Program, demonstrating her commitment to continuing professional development and global knowledge exchange. Dr. Raja’s professional impact extends beyond hospitals and laboratories—she has conducted numerous dental awareness and screening camps in rural communities, promoting preventive oral health care among underserved populations. Her interdisciplinary approach, patient-centered philosophy, and dedication to healthcare advancement underline her role as a promising contributor to the global dental community. With a growing record of research, academic collaboration, and clinical excellence, Dr. Divya Raja continues to embody the ideals of ethical, innovative, and socially responsive dentistry.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. Dr. Divya Raja, Ramasamy, N., Ashok, Y., & Rani, N. (2025). Stability outcomes of internal and external distractors in maxillary distraction osteogenesis for cleft lip and palate: A systematic review. Dentistry Review, 100161.

Travis Nelson | Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by WSA Awards

Dr. Travis Nelson | Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

University of Washington, United States

Dr. Travis M. Nelson, DDS, MSD, MPH, is a distinguished pediatric dentist and academic leader with extensive expertise in clinical practice, research, and education. He earned his BA from Walla Walla College in 2003, DDS from Loma Linda University in 2007, and MSD/MPH from the University of Washington in 2010. Currently a tenured Associate Professor at the University of Washington, he has held multiple academic appointments, including Clinical and Tenure-Track Associate Professor, Chair of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Interim Predoctoral Director, Graduate Program Director, and Acting Chair, demonstrating strong leadership and commitment to advancing pediatric oral health education. Dr. Nelson’s professional experience is complemented by his service on the medical staff at Seattle Children’s Hospital and active involvement in professional organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Western Society of Pediatric Dentistry, and American Dental Education Association. His research interests focus on pediatric oral health, early childhood caries prevention, dental sedation and anesthesia, and improving access to dental care for children with special needs. He has authored 37 publications with 521 citations and an h-index of 12, reflecting significant contributions to the scientific literature. Dr. Nelson is highly skilled in clinical pediatric dentistry, procedural sedation, dental public health research, and interdisciplinary program development. His numerous awards and honors include the Law Lewis Endowed Chair, multiple UW Pediatric Dentistry Resident Teaching Awards, Jerome B. Miller “For the Kids” Award, recognition as a Top Dentist by Seattle Metropolitan Magazine, and multiple national and international research fellowships and scholarships. He has also mentored numerous graduate students and residents, guiding impactful research projects on pediatric sedation, dental behavior, and preventive care. Overall, Dr. Nelson’s career exemplifies a seamless integration of clinical excellence, innovative research, and educational leadership, positioning him as a leading figure in pediatric dentistry whose work continues to advance knowledge, improve clinical outcomes, and foster the development of future dental professionals.

Profile: Scopus

Featured Publications

  1. Nelson, T. M., Berg, J. H., Bell, J. F., Leggott, P. J., & Seminario, A. L. (2011). Assessing the effectiveness of text messages as appointment reminders in a pediatric dental setting. Journal of the American Dental Association, 142(4), 397–405.

  2. Nelson, T. M. (2011). The key to caries prevention. Dimensions of Dental Hygiene, 9(7), 48–50, 52–53.

  3. Nelson, T. M. (2012). The consequences of convenience. Dimensions of Dental Hygiene, 10(2), 30–32, 34.

  4. Nelson, T. M. (2013). An improved interim therapeutic restoration (ITR) technique for management of anterior early childhood caries. Pediatric Dentistry, 35(4), 124–128.

  5. Nelson, T., & Nelson, G. (2013). The role of sedation in contemporary pediatric dentistry. Dental Clinics of North America, 57(1), 145–161.

Dr. Travis M. Nelson’s work advances pediatric oral health by improving early childhood caries prevention, optimizing sedation and anesthesia protocols, and expanding access to dental care for children with special needs. His research and educational initiatives bridge clinical practice and public health, fostering healthier communities and shaping the next generation of dental professionals globally.

Ricardo Osorio | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by WSA Awards

Dr. Ricardo Osorio | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

NYU Grossman School of Medicine, United States

Dr. Ricardo Osorio is a distinguished neuropsychiatrist and researcher specializing in the intersection of sleep, aging, and neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. He earned his M.D. from Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (Spain) in 2001, followed by multiple master’s degrees in Psychotherapy, Neuroscience, and Neuropsychology from Universidad Comillas and Universidad Complutense, Madrid, with a focus on executive function and cognitive aging. His clinical training includes residencies in psychiatry at 12 de Octubre Hospital, Madrid, internships in neurology at McGill University, Montreal, and neuropsychiatry at the Institute of Neurology, London, as well as postdoctoral neuroscience training at NYU Langone Health. Dr. Osorio’s professional career encompasses roles as attending psychiatrist in several Spanish hospitals, research scientist at Alzheimer’s Project Research Unit (CIEN Foundation) in Madrid, and progressive academic appointments at NYU School of Medicine and the Healthy Brain Aging and Sleep Center, where he is now a tenured associate professor. His research interests focus on sleep disorders as risk factors for neurodegeneration, slow-wave sleep and sleep spindle physiology, memory consolidation, and advanced neuroimaging techniques including PET imaging of glucose metabolism, amyloid, and tau in normal aging, cognitive decline, and Alzheimer’s disease. He possesses expertise in clinical psychiatry, cognitive assessment, neuroimaging analysis, sleep research methodologies, and interdisciplinary translational research. Dr. Osorio has received numerous awards and honors, including international fellowships, the Spanish National Psychiatry Residents Research Award, the Anne Elizabeth Suratt Young Investigator Award, and departmental mentorship recognitions. He has authored 130 publications, accumulated 9,893 citations, and holds an h-index of 44, reflecting his impactful contributions to science and clinical practice. Dr. Osorio’s work bridges neuroscience and clinical application, advancing understanding of cognitive aging, informing early detection strategies for Alzheimer’s disease, and contributing to the development of interventions that benefit patients and society at large, marking him as a leading figure in neuropsychiatric research and aging studies.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. Bernard, M. A., Boutajangout, A., Debure, L., Ahmed, W., Briggs, A. Q., Boza-Calvo, C., Vedvyas, A., Marsh, K., Bubu, O. M., Osorio, R. S., et al. (2024, July 10). The relationship between anxiety and levels of Alzheimer’s disease plasma biomarkers. Preprint.

  2. Iosifescu, D. V., Song, X., Gersten, M. B., Adib, A., Cho, Y., Collins, K. M., Yates, K. F., Hurtado-Puerto, A. M., McEachern, K. M., Osorio, R. S., et al. (2023, July 13). Protocol report on the transcranial photobiomodulation for Alzheimer’s disease (TRAP-AD) study. Healthcare, 11(14), 2017.

  3. Parasoglou, P., Osorio, R. S., Khegai, O., Kovbasyuk, Z., Miller, M., Ho, A., Dehkharghani, S., Wisniewski, T., Convit, A., Mosconi, L., et al. (2022, December). Phosphorus metabolism in the brain of cognitively normal midlife individuals at risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Neuroimage: Reports, 2, 100121.

  4. Lal, C., Ayappa, I., Ayas, N., Beaudin, A. E., Hoyos, C., Kushida, C. A., Kaminska, M., Mullins, A., Naismith, S. L., Osorio, R. S., et al. (2022, August). The link between obstructive sleep apnea and neurocognitive impairment: An official American Thoracic Society workshop report. Annals of the American Thoracic Society, 19(8), 1250–1267.

  5. Teipel, S., Bruno, D., Plaska, C. R., Heslegrave, A., Ramos-Cejudo, J., Osorio, R. S., Zetterberg, H., Blennow, K., & Pomara, N. (2021, October). Association of CSF sTREM2, a marker of microglia activation, with cholinergic basal forebrain volume in major depressive disorder. Journal of Affective Disorders, 295, 1017–1025.

Dr. Ricardo Osorio’s work advances the understanding of sleep and neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer’s disease, by identifying early risk factors and therapeutic targets. His research bridges neuroscience and clinical practice, improving strategies for diagnosis, prevention, and intervention, thereby benefiting patients, healthcare systems, and society globally.

Maria Sundvall | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by WSA Awards

Dr. Maria Sundvall | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

University of Turku, Finland

Dr. Maria Sundvall is a distinguished physician-scientist and academic leader in Clinical Oncology and Molecular Cancer Biology, renowned for her translational research bridging laboratory discoveries with clinical applications. She earned her Medical Doctor degree in 2003, followed by a Ph.D. in Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Turku, Finland, in 2007, where her thesis focused on “Signaling of ErbB4 Isoforms in Cancer.” She was later awarded the Title of Docent in 2015 and became a Specialist Physician in Clinical Oncology and Radiotherapy in 2018. Professionally, Dr. Sundvall serves as a Consultant in Clinical Oncology at Turku University Hospital and a Clinical Lecturer at the Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, where she also directs the Cancer Research Unit. Her earlier career includes postdoctoral research at Harvard Medical School under Professor P.P. Pandolfi, where she advanced her expertise in oncogenic signaling and targeted cancer therapies. Her research interests focus on receptor tyrosine kinase signaling, metabolic vulnerabilities in cancer, resistance mechanisms to EGFR-targeting therapies, and precision oncology for breast and prostate cancers. Dr. Sundvall possesses advanced research skills in molecular biology, cell signaling, cancer genomics, and translational medicine, with proficiency in various laboratory and clinical trial methodologies. She has authored over 34 publications in prestigious journals such as PNAS, Cancer Research, Clinical Cancer Research, and Oncogene, contributing key insights into cancer mechanisms and therapeutic resistance. Her numerous honors include the Turku University Foundation Ph.D. Thesis Award and research grants exceeding €1 million from the Research Council of Finland, the Finnish Medical Foundation, and the Sigrid Juselius Foundation. In conclusion, Dr. Sundvall exemplifies excellence in research, teaching, and clinical innovation, with her work significantly advancing the understanding of cancer biology and influencing future directions in precision oncology and patient-centered cancer care worldwide.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

Sriraman, S., Virtanen, V., Kukkula, A., Toriseva, M., Lumiainen, A., West, G., Poutanen, M., Taimen, P., & Sundvall, M. (2025). Androgen receptor‐mediated regulation of BRCA1 modulates the antioxidant defense in prostate cancer. The Journal of Pathology. Advance online publication.

Koskela, S., Pulkkinen, O., Mehmood, A., Kallionpää, R., Birkman, E.-M., Huuhtanen, J., Mustjoki, S., Coupland, S., Aittokallio, T., & Sundvall, M. (2025, July 8). Novel anti-PD1 predictive signature and functional dendritic-cell biomarkers in melanoma identified with systems immunology [Preprint]. Research Square.

Gnjatovic, J., Garces Ibanez, J., Rantala, J., Sundvall, M., Alanne, E., Vaittinen, S., Mattila, P., Jäättelä, M., & Hämälistö, S. (2025, April 29). Patient-derived lymphoma organoids and repurposed drugs: Novel solutions for improved B cell lymphoma treatment [Conference paper].

Hollmén, M., Löyttyniemi, E., Juhanoja, E., Vihinen, P., & Sundvall, M. (2025, February). High comorbidity and tumor proliferation predict survival of localized breast cancer patients after curative surgery: A retrospective analysis of real-world data in Finland. Surgical Oncology, 102(188).

Nissi, L., Tuominen, S., Routila, J., Huusko, T., Ketonen, P., Sundvall, M., Leivo, I., Irjala, H., Minn, H., & Grönroos, T. J. (2024, November). xCT as a predictor for survival in a population‐based cohort of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Cancer Medicine.

Gabriele Cortina | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Published on by WSA Awards

Dr. Gabriele Cortina | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Humanitas Castelli, Italy

Dr. Gabriele Cortina is an accomplished Orthopaedic and Traumatology Specialist recognized for his excellence in sports medicine, knee surgery, and joint reconstruction. He obtained his secondary diploma with distinction from Istituto Magistrale Luigi Pietrobono in Alatri (2006–2011) and earned his Laurea Magistrale a Ciclo Unico in Medicina e Chirurgia with 110/110 e lode from the Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma in 2017, followed by professional qualification as a Medico-Chirurgo from Università degli Studi di Roma Tor Vergata (2018) and a specialization in Orthopaedics and Traumatology with 50/50 e lode from Campus Bio-Medico di Roma in 2023. Professionally, he serves as an orthopaedic surgeon at Cliniche Humanitas Gavazzeni-Castelli in Bergamo, Clinica Pierangeli in Pescara, and Clinica Santa Teresa in Isola del Liri, while also completing a prestigious Sport Medicine and Knee Surgery Fellowship at ICATME, Barcelona, under Prof. J.C. Monllau. His previous roles include specialization training at Humanitas Gavazzeni and Castelli Clinics and observerships in shoulder and hip surgery at Clinica Villa Verde (Fermo) and Villa Ulivella (Firenze). Dr. Cortina’s research interests focus on orthopaedic biomechanics, joint preservation, rehabilitation protocols, and regenerative therapies. His notable publications include studies on rotator cuff repair, osteoarthritis, kinematic knee alignment, and adipose tissue injection therapy in reputed journals such as The Knee, Osteology, Journal of Surgical Case Reports, and Journal of Experimental Orthopaedics. He is fluent in Italian and proficient in English and has actively participated in international conferences and cadaveric training courses across Europe, including SIAGASCOT, CADLAB Cologne, and M.O.R.E. Knee Learning Center. His research skills encompass clinical data analysis, surgical innovation, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Honors include multiple cum laude academic distinctions and recognition as a finalist in the LiGca-Lab Program by SIAGASCOT. In conclusion, Dr. Cortina embodies the fusion of clinical precision and academic depth, contributing to the advancement of modern orthopaedics through evidence-based practice, cross-border collaboration, and a lifelong commitment to improving musculoskeletal health.

Profiles: Scopus|ORCID

Featured Publications

  1. Cortina, G., Antuofermo, S. M., Papalia, G. F., Cortina, R., Condello, V., Perelli, S., Monllau, J. C., & Madonna, V. (2025). Limited clinical benefit of medial meniscus posterior root repair combined with high tibial osteotomy in varus knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis. Journal of Experimental Orthopaedics.
  2. Cortina, G., Collarile, M., Condello, V., Orlandi, R., Russo, A., Madonna, V., & Pieracci, N. (2021). Spinal hematoma after total knee arthroplasty: A case report. Journal of Surgical Case Reports.
  3. Berton, A., De Salvatore, S., Candela, V., Cortina, G., Lo Presti, D., Massaroni, C., Petrillo, S., & Denaro, V. (2020). Delayed rehabilitation protocol after rotator cuff repair. Osteology, 1(1), 3.
  4. Cortina, G. (2020). Physical activity for the treatment of chronic low back pain in elderly patients: A systematic review. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 9(4), 1023.
  5. Cortina, G. (2019). New trends in treatment of osteoarthritis: “From cells to metal”. A case report of simultaneous different approach to bilateral hip osteoarthritis. Annals of Case Report.

Dr. Gabriele Cortina’s work advances the field of orthopaedic science through innovative approaches in joint reconstruction, sports medicine, and regenerative therapy, bridging clinical excellence with translational research. His contributions enhance surgical outcomes, improve patient mobility, and foster global innovation in minimally invasive and evidence-based orthopaedic care.