Erin Haley | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Erin Haley | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Henry Ford Health System | United States

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Early Academic Pursuits ✨

Dr. Erin Haley embarked on her academic journey with a strong foundation in psychology and creative writing at Grand Valley State University. She then pursued a Master of Education in School Counseling at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, earning licensure as a K-12 school counselor. Her passion for understanding human behavior and mental health led her to East Carolina University, where she obtained both her Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology with a health emphasis. Her doctoral research focused on a self-compassion intervention for women with overweight/obesity and internalized weight bias, showcasing her commitment to addressing weight stigma and mental health concerns.

Professional Endeavors 🎓

Dr. Haley's career is marked by an impressive trajectory in clinical psychology and health research. She currently serves as a T32 Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, MI, where she contributes to groundbreaking research in behavioral medicine. Her role in multiple NIH-funded projects, including an R21 grant investigating alcohol use after bariatric surgery and an R34 grant exploring prenatal yoga’s impact on postpartum depression, underscores her dedication to enhancing health outcomes through psychological interventions.

Contributions and Research Focus 📝

Dr. Haley's research spans critical areas in clinical psychology, including weight stigma, bariatric surgery outcomes, eating behaviors, and mental health disparities. She has played a pivotal role in optimizing self-compassion interventions to reduce internalized weight stigma and improve psychological well-being among women post-bariatric surgery. Her collaborations with esteemed researchers have resulted in publications that provide valuable insights into psychiatric symptoms, disordered eating, and substance use among diverse populations. Her work on mindfulness-based interventions for university students further highlights her commitment to holistic mental health approaches.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Haley’s contributions to clinical psychology have been recognized through multiple peer-reviewed publications in esteemed journals, including Obesity Surgery, Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine, Eating Behaviors, and Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases. Her involvement in high-impact research grants and collaborations with leading experts further attest to her expertise and influence in the field. The acceptance of her studies in top-tier journals reflects the significance of her research in shaping interventions for weight-related mental health issues.

Impact and Influence 🔍

Dr. Haley's work has had a profound impact on the understanding of weight-related psychological factors, particularly among individuals undergoing bariatric surgery. Her research provides evidence-based insights into the intersections of mental health, body image, and eating behaviors, guiding clinicians and policymakers in developing more effective interventions. By integrating self-compassion techniques into behavioral weight loss programs, she has contributed to innovative strategies that promote sustainable mental and physical well-being.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

With a promising career ahead, Dr. Haley continues to push the boundaries of clinical psychology and health research. Her pending NIH K23 grant proposal aims to further refine self-compassion interventions for women after bariatric surgery, ensuring equitable mental health support for diverse populations. As she advances in her career, her work is expected to shape the future of psychological interventions, fostering a more compassionate and inclusive approach to health and wellness. Dr. Erin Haley's dedication to research, advocacy, and clinical excellence solidifies her as a leading force in the field of clinical psychology.

 

Publications

  • 📄 Psychological factors associated with binge eating among women with infertility

    • Author(s): Haley, E. N., Vanderziel, A. M., Loree, A. M., Vagnini, K. M., Joseph-Mofford, G., Hecht, L. M., Miller-Matero, L. R.
    • Journal: Eating Behaviors
    • Year: Accepted for publication

  • 📄 Gender and Racial Differences in the Overvaluation of Shape, Weight, Excess Skin, and Psychosocial Correlates Following Bariatric Surgery

    • Author(s): Haley, E. N., Braciszewski, J. M., Carlin, A. M., Snodgrass, M., Pearl, E. S., Loree, A. M., & Miller-Matero, L. R.
    • Journal: Obesity Surgery
    • Year: 2025

  • 📄Social support among women with infertility: Associations with psychiatric symptoms, disordered eating, and substance use

    • Author(s): Miller-Matero, L. R., Joseph-Mofford, G. E., Vagnini, K. M., Haley, E. N., Vanderziel, A. M., Loree, A. M., & Hecht, L. M.
    • Journal: Journal of Health Psychology
    • Year: 2025

  • 📄Characteristics and Clinical Outcomes of Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome After Bariatric Surgery

    • Author(s): Haley, E., Coyne, P., Carlin, A., Santarossa, S., Loree, A., Braciszewski, J., ... & Miller-Matero, L.
    • Journal: Obesity Surgery
    • Year: 2025

  • 📄 Weight and shape overvaluation and its relation to anxiety, depression, and maladaptive eating symptoms for patients up to 4 years after bariatric surgery

    • Author(s): Pearl, E. S., Murray, M. F., Haley, E. N., Snodgrass, M., Braciszewski, J. M., Carlin, A. M., & Miller-Matero, L. R.
    • Journal: Surgery for Obesity and Related Diseases
    • Year: 2024

 

María Alejandra Aguirre | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr. María Alejandra Aguirre | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Universidad Católica de Cuenca | Ecuador

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Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Prof. Dr. María Alejandra Aguirre embarked on her academic journey with a focus on Nutrition and Food Sciences. She completed her undergraduate education at the Catholic University of Cuenca, where she earned her degree in Food Engineering in 2007. Her passion for the field led her to further her studies with a Master's degree in Food Quality from the National University of Education (UNAE) in 2016. She continued to build on this foundation, achieving a PhD in Nutrition and Food Sciences from the University of Granada in March 2023. Her academic training has been marked by a consistent pursuit of knowledge and excellence.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Prof. Aguirre has held various professional roles that reflect her expertise and commitment to nutrition and food sciences. Her career includes significant positions such as Head of the Department of Nutrition at the Catholic University of Cuenca and involvement with the District Directorate of Popular Economy and Solidarity. She has also served as an accredited researcher by SENESCYT (National Secretariat of Higher Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation) and has contributed to numerous projects related to nutritional education and food quality.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Prof. Aguirre’s research primarily revolves around nutritional status, food quality, and public health. Her work includes studies on the impact of dietary habits on the nutritional status of children and the effectiveness of nutrition education programs in indigenous communities. Notable publications include her research on the relationship between fried food consumption and nutritional status in children, and the characterization of complementary feeding practices. Her research is aimed at improving public health outcomes through better nutritional practices and education.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Prof. Aguirre has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to the field of nutrition. She was honored with the Honorato Vásquez Award by the University of Azuay as the best graduate. Additionally, her work has been featured in the "Academic Women of Cañar" book, which highlights influential women in academia. Her achievements have been acknowledged through various awards and publications, underscoring her impact in the field.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Prof. Aguirre’s work has had a significant impact on both local and international levels. Her research and publications contribute valuable insights into nutritional practices and public health strategies. Her involvement in community-based projects and educational programs has helped improve dietary habits and health outcomes in various populations, particularly in Ecuador. Her influence extends through her roles as an educator, researcher, and advocate for better nutrition and public health.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

Prof. Aguirre’s legacy is marked by her dedication to advancing knowledge in nutrition and her commitment to improving public health. Her future contributions are likely to continue shaping the field of nutrition through ongoing research, educational initiatives, and community outreach. As she moves forward, her work will likely address emerging nutritional challenges and continue to influence health policies and practices. Her ongoing efforts will further solidify her role as a leading expert in nutrition and food sciences.

 

Publications

📚Irruption of Network Analysis to Explain Dietary, Psychological and Nutritional Patterns and Metabolic Health Status in Metabolically Healthy and Unhealthy Overweight and Obese University Students: Ecuadorian Case

  • Authors: María Alejandra Aguirre-Quezada; María Pilar Aranda-Ramírez
  • Journal: Nutrients
  • Year: 2024

📚Salud Digital: Un nuevo paradigma en la salud impulsado por la Tecnología, la Educación y el Derecho

  • Authors: Mercedes Magdalena Sarmiento Pesántez; Marina Cecilia Andrade Molina; María Alejandra Aguirre Quezada; Rosa Valeria Vázquez Villavicencio
  • Book
  • Year: 2024

📚Estado Nutricional y Parasitosis en Preescolares

  • Author: María Alejandra Aguirre
  • Journal: Polo del Conocimiento
  • Year: 2018

 

Kyriaki Myrissa | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc Prof Dr. Kyriaki Myrissa | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

St Mary's University | United Kingdom

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Academic Pursuits 🎓

Dr. Kyriaki Myrissa embarked on her academic journey at the University of Leeds, where she completed her BSc (Hons) in Psychology in 2009. Her early research focused on dietary interventions and their impact on health, which led to her Master’s by Research (MRes) in 2011, studying the effects of increased fiber intake on body composition and appetite control. This foundational work paved the way for her PhD in Psychology, completed in 2016, where she explored the complex interplay of affect, cognition, behavior, and motivation in weight loss and maintenance.

Professional Endeavors 💼

Dr. Myrissa's professional career is marked by her dedication to academia and research. She has held various positions at the University of Leeds, including Research Assistant, Practical Research Demonstrator, and Lecturer. In 2017, she joined St Mary’s University in Twickenham, London, where she currently serves as an Associate Professor in Nutrition, Health & Exercise Sciences. Her role also includes being the Postgraduate Subject Lead and Course Lead for MSc Chronic Disease Management. Her responsibilities extend to teaching, supervision of PhD students, and overseeing postgraduate programs.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Myrissa’s research contributions are both diverse and impactful. Her work primarily focuses on mental health, obesity, neurodevelopmental disorders, and the role of nutrition and physical activity in managing chronic diseases. She has been involved in various research projects, including dietary interventions for children with ADHD, the relationship between age-friendliness and quality of life in older adults, and the motor signature of autism. Her research has been published in numerous journals, contributing valuable insights to the fields of psychology, nutrition, and public health.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Myrissa’s excellence in teaching and research has been recognized through her Fellowships with the Higher Education Academy, including achieving Senior Fellow status in 2023. Her successful research grants and involvement in significant studies, such as the effects of kefir on children with ADHD and the medical events associated with parkrun in the UK, underscore her influence in her field.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Myrissa’s work has had a significant impact on the academic and health communities. Her research on weight management, mental health, and neurodevelopmental disorders has contributed to better understanding and management of these conditions. Her role as an educator has influenced a generation of students in the fields of psychology, nutrition, and public health, fostering future leaders and researchers.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

As Dr. Myrissa continues her work at St Mary’s University, her legacy is one of dedication to advancing knowledge in health and nutrition sciences. Her ongoing research and commitment to teaching ensure that she will continue to contribute to her fields, inspiring both her peers and students. Her future endeavors promise to further explore the intersections of mental health, behavior, and nutrition, driving forward the understanding and management of chronic diseases.

 

Publications

📄 Article: Cross-sectional study examining the association between diet quality and the prevalence of anxiety and depression in UK undergraduate students
Author: Myrissa, K., Court, C., Kelaiditi, E.
Journal: Nutrition Bulletin
Year: 2024

📄 Article: Randomised controlled trial of the effects of kefir on behaviour, sleep and the microbiome in children with ADHD: a study protocol
Author: Lawrence, K., Fibert, P., Hobbs, J., Cotter, P.D., Gregory, A.M.
Journal: BMJ Open
Year: 2023

📄 Article: Orthorexia Nervosa: Examining the reliability and validity of two self-report measures and the predictors of orthorexic symptoms in elite and recreational athletes
Author: Myrissa, K., Jackson, L., Kelaiditi, E.
Journal: Performance Enhancement and Health
Year: 2023

📄 Article: Public beliefs and willingness to accept COVID-19 vaccines among adults in South-Western Nigeria: A cross-sectional study
Author: Olaoye, I., Ekong, A., Samuel, A., Jacdonmi, T., Gboyega, F.
Journal: AIMS Public Health
Year: 2023

📄 Article: Health Workers’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on Reporting Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) in Nigeria: A Cross-sectional Study
Author: Olaoye, I., Fatiregun, A.A., Myrissa, K., Gboyega, F., Stephen, F.
Journal: Journal of Health Research
Year: 2023

 

Fung Kuen Koo | Nursing and Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Fung Kuen Koo | Nursing and Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Western Sydney University | Australia

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📚 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Fung Kuen Koo’s academic journey is marked by distinguished qualifications in health and education. She earned her Ph.D. in 2005 from the University of Sydney’s Faculty of Education & Social Work, presenting a thesis on the health beliefs and behaviors of older Hong Kong Chinese people in Australia. Prior to this, she completed a Master of Education in Health Education at the same institution in 1999, investigating barriers to health promotion participation among older Chinese-speaking individuals in New South Wales. She also holds a Master of Public Health from the University of Wollongong (1997), a Bachelor of Health Science in Nursing from the University of Western Sydney (1995), and a Diploma of General Nursing from Caritas Medical Centre in Hong Kong (1993).

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Koo’s professional career is extensive and impactful. She is currently a Senior Lecturer at Western Sydney University’s Hawkesbury Campus since July 2022. Before this, she held various significant positions, including Senior Lecturer/Lead for Pre-Registration Master in Nursing at Charles Darwin University, and Honorary Senior Lecturer at the University of Sydney. Her earlier roles include Lecturer at the University of Sydney, Clinical Instructor at the University of Hong Kong, and Registered Nurse at multiple prestigious institutions including Royal North Shore Hospital and Mater Hospital in Sydney.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Koo’s research contributions are vast and varied. Her work spans several critical areas, including preventive health, health education, and the integration of cultural perspectives into healthcare. Notable projects include the development of community cancer screening programs for Chinese-Australian women and studies on the willingness of young adults to provide dementia care. Her research on cultural influences and vitamin D status among South East Asian women highlights her commitment to addressing health disparities through culturally informed interventions.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Koo’s excellence in research and education has been recognized through various grants and awards. She has received funding from esteemed organizations like the Australian Association of Gerontology, the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education, and the Cancer Institute NSW. Her projects have been pivotal in advancing community health initiatives and educational programs, earning her a reputable position in the field of health education.

🌟 Impact and Influence

Dr. Koo’s impact on the field of nursing and health education is profound. Her work has influenced health promotion practices, particularly among Chinese-speaking communities in Australia. Through her innovative research and dedicated teaching, she has shaped the perspectives of countless students and healthcare professionals, fostering a deeper understanding of culturally competent care.

🏅 Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Koo’s legacy is one of dedication, innovation, and cultural sensitivity in healthcare. She continues to inspire future generations of nurses and educators with her pioneering research and commitment to community health. Her ongoing projects and future endeavors promise to further enhance the integration of cultural perspectives into health education and practice, ensuring her lasting influence on the field.

 

Publications 🖋️ 

📝Evaluating pre-and post-oral health literacy of undergraduate nursing students on an oral-systemic health learning intervention
Authors: Fung Kuen Koo BHS(Nsg), MPH, MEd, PhD, Rebecca Chen BOH, MIntPH, Judith Fethney BA (Hons), BTeach, Jay Balante BSN, MAN (Adult Health Nsg), GradCertClinEd, MACN, Grace Wong RDT, BHM, BTrngDev, MHlthProm, GradCert, HPEd, PhD
Journal: Journal of Dental Education
Year: 2024

📝Nursing students' experiences of using flipcharts as a learning tool during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Balante, J., Candelaria, D., Perez, D., Koo, F.
Journal: Nurse Education Today
Year: 2023

📝A systematic review of quantitative and qualitative literature on health professionals' experiences communicating with Chinese immigrants
Authors: Li, J., Lowres, N., Koo, F.K., Gallagher, R.
Journal: International Journal of Nursing Practice
Year: 2021

📝Assessing oral health literacy of university nursing students: A cross-sectional exploratory study
Authors: Wong, G., Koo, T.F., Fethney, J., Chen, R.
Journal: Nurse Education in Practice
Year: 2021

📝Understanding Prevention and Management of Coronary Heart Disease Among Chinese Immigrants and Their Family Carers: A Socioecological Approach
Authors: Jin, K., Neubeck, L., Koo, F., Ding, D., Gullick, J.
Journal: Journal of Transcultural Nursing
Year: 2020

 

Sarka Lisonkova | Health Professions | Women Research Award

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Assoc Prof Dr. Sarka Lisonkova | Health Professions | Women Research Award

The University of British Columbia | Canada

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Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Sarka Lisonkova's academic journey began at Palacky University in Olomouc, Czech Republic, where she earned her MD degree in 1994. She then pursued a Master's degree in Epidemiology at the State University of New York, USA, completing it in 1999. Her academic excellence continued at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Canada, where she obtained her PhD in Epidemiology in 2009. Following her PhD, Dr. Lisonkova undertook post-doctoral research at UBC, focusing on epidemiological studies from 2009 to 2012.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Lisonkova’s professional career is marked by significant roles both before and during her tenure at UBC. Before joining UBC, she was an Assistant Professor at Palacky University and a Visiting Researcher at the Scientific Institute of Public Health Louis Pasteur in Brussels, Belgium. At UBC, she has held various positions, starting as a Social Science Researcher from 2000 to 2007, advancing to a Research Associate, and then to an Assistant Professor in Obstetrics and Gynecology from 2014 to 2019. She has been an Associate Professor in the same department since 2019 and is also an associate member of the School of Population and Public Health since 2015.

Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Lisonkova has made substantial contributions to the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology, particularly in reproductive and child health sciences. She developed OBST 504, a course that emphasizes the critical appraisal of research in reproductive and children's health sciences, which has been incorporated into UBC’s curriculum. Her research interests include maternal and perinatal epidemiology, with a focus on understanding the factors underlying maternal and neonatal health outcomes. She is also actively involved in international collaborations aimed at preventing preterm births and improving neonatal health.

Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her career, Dr. Lisonkova has received numerous awards and distinctions. Some notable recognitions include the Harold A. Kaminetzky Prize Paper award in 2018 for her co-authored paper on maternal mortality in the United States and the Highly Cited Research Award from the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology in 2016. Additionally, she has received various scholarships and fellowships, such as the Senior Graduate Scholarship from the Canadian Institutes for Health Research and the Graduate Scholarship from the Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research.

Impact and Influence

Dr. Lisonkova's impact extends beyond her research contributions. She has been actively involved in shaping future research agendas through her participation in national and international workshops and committees. Notably, she was invited to the Core Stillbirth Estimation Group by the United Nations and has contributed to the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada’s workshop on maternal mortality and morbidity. Her leadership in the New Vulnerable Newborn Measurement collaboration highlights her influence in neonatal health research.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Lisonkova's legacy in the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology is characterized by her dedication to improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes through rigorous research and international collaboration. Looking forward, her ongoing work with the PREBIC collaboration and other international initiatives positions her to continue making significant contributions to the field. Her commitment to education and mentorship also ensures that her influence will be felt by future generations of researchers and healthcare professionals.

 

Notable Publications

Racial/Ethnic Disparity in Severe Maternal Morbidity Among Women Who Conceived by In-vitro Fertilization 2024

A history of recurrent pregnancy loss is associated with increased perinatal complications, but not necessarily a longer birth interval: a population study spanning 18 years 2024

Variation in Episiotomy Use Among Nulliparous Individuals by Maternity Care Provider and Associated Rates of Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injury 2024

Severe Maternal Morbidity and Mental Health Hospitalizations or Emergency Department Visits 2024

Maternal mortality in the United States: are the high and rising rates due to changes in obstetrical factors, maternal medical conditions, or maternal mortality surveillance? 2024 (6)