Sergio Sandoval-Alarcon | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Review Paper Award

Mr. Sergio Sandoval-Alarcon | Medicine and Health Sciences | Best Review Paper Award

Mr. Sergio Sandoval Alarcon | Medicine and Health Sciences | PhD Student at Universidad de Valparaiso | Chile

Dr. Sergio Sandoval-Alarcón is a seasoned Chilean academic and Associate Professor at the School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Valparaíso. With over two decades of experience in teaching, clinical practice, and curriculum development, he has made significant contributions to the fields of clinical biomechanics, ergonomics, and anatomy education. His research emphasizes improving musculoskeletal health through ergonomic interventions, as demonstrated by his recent publication in the Q1-ranked Applied Ergonomics. Dr. Sandoval-Alarcón holds a Master’s degree in Clinical Biomechanical Assessment and numerous postgraduate diplomas in areas such as scientific research, university teaching, and manual therapy. He has pioneered educational innovations using digital platforms for anatomy instruction and has been a key figure in developing kinesiology programs across multiple Chilean universities. His dedication to health promotion, interdisciplinary collaboration, and pedagogical advancement underscores his commitment to both academic excellence and public health impact.

Professional Profile 

Education 

Dr. Sergio Sandoval-Alarcón has built a robust academic foundation grounded in health sciences and clinical biomechanics. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology with Highest Distinction in 1999 from the Universidad Católica del Maule, Chile, followed by his Master’s degree in Clinical Biomechanical Assessment in 2016 from the prestigious Instituto de Biomecánica de Valencia (IBV), Universitat Politècnica de València, Spain. To further enrich his expertise, he has completed a wide range of postgraduate diplomas and certifications in scientific research, manual therapy, university teaching, coaching, health promotion, and competency-based training. These include programs from the Universidad de Chile, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Universidad de Playa Ancha, and Universidad de Talca, among others. His diverse and continuous educational journey reflects a deep commitment to lifelong learning and academic excellence.

Professional Experience 

Dr. Sergio Sandoval-Alarcón brings over two decades of rich and diverse professional experience in academia, clinical practice, and health education. He currently serves as an Associate Professor at the School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Valparaíso, where he has been a tenured faculty member since 2006. His teaching portfolio includes key subjects such as Human Anatomy, Biomechanics, and Clinical Kinesiology, and he has also led curriculum design and innovation initiatives. Beyond the classroom, he has served as a lecturer at several Chilean universities including Universidad de Playa Ancha, Universidad Andrés Bello, and Universidad de Aconcagua. Clinically, he worked extensively in primary health care settings, specializing in musculoskeletal and cardiovascular rehabilitation. Additionally, he has held leadership roles such as Program Director of Kinesiology at Universidad del Mar and has supervised numerous clinical internships and teaching diplomas. His career demonstrates a strong commitment to integrating academic rigor with community health needs.

Research Interests 

Dr. Sergio Sandoval-Alarcón’s research interests lie at the intersection of clinical biomechanics, ergonomics, and health education. He is particularly focused on the biomechanical assessment of human movement and the prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders, aiming to improve both clinical outcomes and workplace health. His studies often explore how ergonomic interventions can enhance physical function and reduce injury, especially in high-risk professions like dentistry. In parallel, he is deeply engaged in educational innovation, investigating digital methodologies for teaching anatomy and kinesiology, including the use of social media platforms for academic engagement. Through both applied clinical research and pedagogical development, Dr. Sandoval-Alarcón contributes to advancing health sciences in a multidisciplinary and impactful way.

Awards and Honors 

While Dr. Sergio Sandoval-Alarcón’s CV does not explicitly list formal awards or honors, his professional achievements reflect significant recognition through academic promotions, leadership roles, and scholarly contributions. His appointment as a tenured Associate Professor at the Universidad de Valparaíso highlights his respected status within the academic community. Additionally, his peer-reviewed publications in high-impact journals, such as Applied Ergonomics, and his involvement in national conferences on pedagogical innovation demonstrate professional acknowledgment of his research and teaching excellence. His selection as a tutor and lecturer in multiple postgraduate programs and diplomas further signifies his standing as a trusted expert and educator in the fields of kinesiology and clinical biomechanics.

Publications Top Noted

Title: Impact of ergonomic interventions on musculoskeletal health and work performance in dentists and dental students: a scoping review
Year: 2025

Conclusion

Dr. Sergio Sandoval Alarcón is a strong and competitive candidate for the Best Review Paper Award, primarily on the strength of his 2025 scoping review in a top-tier journal and his deep expertise in clinical biomechanics and ergonomics. His academic maturity, teaching leadership, and commitment to evidence-based practice support his candidacy.

Aditi Bhargava | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Aditi Bhargava | Biology and Life Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof Aditi Bhargava, University of California San Francisco, United States

Prof. Aditi Bhargava is a distinguished researcher and academician specializing in molecular biology, physiology, and endocrinology. She has made groundbreaking contributions to understanding the molecular mechanisms of stress responses, aging, and cardiovascular disease. Throughout her career, she has held prestigious positions, including Professor Emeritus at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). Prof. Bhargava’s research integrates hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors to uncover their roles in disease progression. With an extensive publication record and a commitment to mentoring the next generation of scientists, she has played a crucial role in advancing biomedical research. Her expertise extends to hormonal signaling pathways, genomics, and translational medicine. Recognized globally for her contributions, Prof. Bhargava has received numerous awards for her pioneering research. She continues to lead significant projects in precision medicine and molecular diagnostics, shaping the future of medical science. 🏆📚

Publication Profile

Google Scholar

Education

🎓 Prof. Aditi Bhargava has an outstanding academic background in molecular biology and physiology. She earned her PhD in Zoology (Molecular Biology) from the University of Pune, India (1995), where she focused on genetic and molecular mechanisms of disease progression. Prior to that, she completed her MSc in Zoology (Specialization: Molecular Biology) from the University of Pune (1988), laying a strong foundation in biotechnology and genomic studies. Her undergraduate journey began at the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur (1986), where she earned a BSc in Zoology (Honors), excelling in genetics, microbiology, and molecular biochemistry. Throughout her academic career, Prof. Bhargava has demonstrated exceptional analytical skills and research expertise, contributing to numerous scientific discoveries. She has also attended specialized training programs and workshops worldwide, enhancing her knowledge in gene regulation, bioinformatics, and cellular signaling. Her educational background has been instrumental in shaping her impactful research career. 🧬📖

Experience

👩‍🏫 Prof. Aditi Bhargava has held prestigious academic and research positions at world-renowned institutions. She served as a Professor Emeritus at UCSF, where she mentored numerous PhD scholars and postdoctoral researchers. Prior to that, she was a Professor and Associate Professor at UCSF, contributing significantly to research in molecular endocrinology and stress physiology. She also worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow at UCSF and New York Medical College, where she gained extensive experience in molecular signaling pathways and translational medicine. Throughout her career, she has led multiple NIH-funded projects, supervised clinical trials, and collaborated with leading scientists to develop novel therapeutic strategies. Her expertise spans gene expression analysis, pharmacogenomics, and precision medicine. As a distinguished educator, Prof. Bhargava has designed and taught advanced molecular biology courses, influencing the next generation of biomedical scientists. Her global research collaborations continue to make significant scientific advancements. 🌍🔍

Awards and Honors

Prof. Aditi Bhargava has received numerous prestigious awards recognizing her groundbreaking research contributions. She was honored with the UNESCO/TWAS Human Genome Fellowship, acknowledging her significant work in genomics and molecular biology. She also received the Senior Research Fellowship from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), highlighting her excellence in biomedical sciences. Additionally, she was awarded the Quest Diagnostic Young Investigator Award, recognizing her innovative approach to molecular diagnostics and disease modeling. Prof. Bhargava is a Fellow of the American Gastroenterological Association (AGAF), a testament to her pioneering work in endocrinology and gastrointestinal research. Her numerous NIH research grants and global collaborations underscore her leadership in precision medicine and therapeutic research. She has been invited as a keynote speaker at international conferences, sharing her expertise in molecular signaling and translational medicine. Her dedication to scientific excellence continues to inspire future generations. 🏆📜

Research Focus

Prof. Aditi Bhargava specializes in molecular endocrinology, stress physiology, and precision medicine. Her research explores the intricate interactions between hormones, genes, and environmental factors to understand their impact on aging, cardiovascular diseases, and stress responses. A major focus of her work is the regulation of gene expression in response to stress and hormonal fluctuations, which has implications for mental health, metabolic disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. She has extensively studied serum- and glucocorticoid-regulated kinases (SGK1), revealing their role in sodium transport and cellular homeostasis. Her work has also contributed to developing novel biomarkers for early disease detection. Prof. Bhargava integrates genomics, bioinformatics, and molecular diagnostics to advance therapeutic strategies for complex diseases. Her research has broad clinical applications, contributing to the development of targeted therapies for endocrine disorders, hypertension, and neurodegeneration. She remains at the forefront of biomedical innovation.

Publication Top Notes

Epithelial sodium channel regulated by aldosterone-induced protein sgk

Chronic stress promotes palatable feeding, which reduces signs of stress: feedforward and feedback effects of chronic stress

SGK integrates insulin and mineralocorticoid regulation of epithelial sodium transport

Gliopathic pain: when satellite glial cells go bad

The serum-and glucocorticoid-induced kinase is a physiological mediator of aldosterone action

Silencing the Kir4. 1 potassium channel subunit in satellite glial cells of the rat trigeminal ganglion results in pain-like behavior in the absence of nerve injury

Evidence for a role of connexin 43 in trigeminal pain using RNA interference in vivo

Mediatrice NIYONSABA | Qualitative Hypotheses | Best Paper Award

Mediatrice NIYONSABA | Qualitative Hypotheses | Best Paper Award

Mrs Mediatrice NIYONSABA, Rwanda Biomedical center, Rwanda

Mediatrice Niyonsaba is a dedicated health professional and researcher. Currently a second-year Master’s student in Epidemiology at the University of Rwanda, she holds a Bachelor’s degree in Anesthesia from the same institution. Since 2012, she has served as an anesthesia clinical officer at RBC/SAMU 🚑. Her research includes co-authoring a study on motorcycle crash epidemiology in Kigali and assisting in several projects, including those on anemia in trauma, substance abuse screening, and the impact of COVID-19 on CNS injuries. She is the lead author of a study on mHealth tools in prehospital care, published in the African Journal of Emergency Medicine 📚.

Publication profile

scupos

Education

Since November 2021, she have been pursuing a Master of Science in Epidemiology at the University of Rwanda’s College of Medicine and Health Sciences 📚. I previously earned a Bachelor’s degree in Anesthesia from the same university (2015-2017) 🎓. My professional journey includes working as an anesthesia clinical officer at RBC/SAMU (Service d’Aide Medicale d’Urgence) since November 2012 🏥. Before that, I taught Biology at SAKE Secondary School from January to November 2009 👩‍🏫.

Experience

Since January 2019, I’ve been part of the SAMU team collaborating with Utah University to develop and pilot test a mobile health communication tool (912 m Health tool) aimed at enhancing emergency medical services 🚑. I co-authored “Epidemiology and prehospital care of motorcycle crashes in Kigali, Rwanda,” published in November 2019 🏍️. From January to April 2020, I was a research assistant for the Kigali Anemia in Trauma and Transfusion Study at CHUK 🏥. Between August 2020 and September 2021, I assisted in adapting screening instruments for detecting alcohol and drug abuse in Rwanda using ACASI 🍷💊. In late 2021, I contributed to research on the impact of COVID-19 on CNS injury treatment and outcomes 🧠. Recently, I authored “Challenges and opportunities to improve efficiency and quality of prehospital emergency care using an m Health platform,” published in the African Journal of Emergency Medicine in September 2023 📚.

Research focus

Dr. Sharmistha Jayaraman’s research focuses primarily on improving prehospital emergency care and trauma management in low-resource settings, particularly in Rwanda. Her studies encompass various aspects of emergency medical services (EMS), including challenges in locating emergency scenes 🚑, enhancing efficiency through m Health platforms 📱, neurotrauma management 🧠, and the epidemiology of trauma, such as motorcycle crashes 🏍️. Additionally, Dr. Jayaraman investigates the initial management of traumatic brain injuries and factors influencing HIV testing among emergency patients. Her work aims to improve healthcare outcomes by addressing critical gaps in prehospital care and emergency response systems in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Publication top notes

Challenges Locating the Scene of Emergency: A Qualitative Study of the EMS System in Rwanda

Challenges and opportunities to improve efficiency and quality of prehospital emergency care using an mHealth platform: Qualitative study in Rwanda

Trends in Neurotrauma Epidemiology, Management, and Outcomes during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Kigali, Rwanda

Factors associated with HIV testing among patients seeking emergent injury care in Kigali, Rwanda

The Initial Prehospital Management of Traumatic Brain Injuries in Kigali, Rwanda

The epidemiology and prehospital care of motorcycle crashes in a sub-Saharan African urban center

Data-driven prehospital training to decrease motorcycle crash deaths in a Sub-Saharan African urban center

 

Excellence in Research Award

Excellence in Research Award

Introduction:

Welcome to the Excellence in Research Award, celebrating outstanding contributions in the realm of academic inquiry and discovery. This prestigious accolade recognizes individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and impact in their respective fields of research.

Award Overview:

The Excellence in Research Award honors individuals across various disciplines for their exemplary achievements in advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and making significant contributions to their fields through groundbreaking research endeavors.

Eligibility:

  • Open to researchers of all ages and backgrounds
  • No age limits apply
  • Qualification: Demonstrated excellence in research
  • Publications: Significant contributions to scholarly literature
  • Recurrements: Continuous commitment to advancing knowledge and innovation

Evaluation Criteria:

Candidates will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

  1. Quality and significance of research contributions
  2. Innovation and creativity in research methodology
  3. Impact and influence on the field
  4. Consistency and sustainability of research efforts

Submission Guidelines:

  • Submit a comprehensive biography highlighting research achievements
  • Include an abstract summarizing key contributions
  • Provide supporting files such as publications, patents, or technical reports

Recognition:

Recipients of the Excellence in Research Award will receive:

  • A prestigious award certificate
  • Recognition at a formal ceremony or conference
  • Publicity through various media channels

Community Impact:

Winners of the award are expected to serve as role models and mentors within their research communities, inspiring future generations of scholars and fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.

Biography:

A detailed biography outlining the candidate's academic background, research interests, notable achievements, and contributions to the field is required.

Abstract and Supporting Files:

Candidates must submit an abstract summarizing their research accomplishments along with supporting files such as publications, patents, or technical reports to substantiate their contributions.