Eddie Wampande | Biological Networks | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Eddie M. Wampande | Biological Networks | Best Researcher Award

Makerere University | Uganda

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DR. EDDIE M. WAMPANDE: A VISIONARY IN INFECTIOUS DISEASE EPIDEMIOLOGY AND VETERINARY SCIENCE

EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Eddie M. Wampande began his academic journey with a scholarship awarded by the Government of Uganda to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Veterinary Medicine (BVM) at Makerere University from 1993 to 1998. Driven by a strong passion for infectious diseases and parasitology, he advanced to complete a Master’s degree in Molecular Biology (Parasitology) at the same university with a WHO/TDR scholarship. His academic accomplishments culminated in a Ph.D. in Molecular Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases, with a focus on the phenotypes and microevolution of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, supported by the Tuberculosis Research Unit (TBRU), Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland.

PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Wampande’s professional journey has been deeply intertwined with Makerere University. He began as a Research Assistant (2000–2002) in the Molecular Biology Laboratory and gradually progressed to Research Associate (2002–2005) and later Senior Lecturer (2005 to date). In 2012, he joined the University of Basel’s Swiss Tropical Institute and Public Health as a Research Fellow, and since 2014, he has been serving as the Director of the Central Diagnostic Laboratory. His commitment to capacity building is evident in his leadership of diagnostic and research programs, reflecting strong administrative and technical expertise.

CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON BIOLOGICAL NETWORKS

Dr. Wampande's primary research focus is on the molecular epidemiology of infectious pathogens of both economic and public health significance, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, African Swine Fever Virus, Trypanosoma brucei, and antimicrobial-resistant pathogens. He has supervised 15 MSc students to completion, covering diverse research areas including tuberculosis genotyping, HIV diagnosis, zoonotic transmission, and antibiotic resistance. His Ph.D. mentorship includes completed theses and ongoing research projects related to TB-HIV co-infections and antimicrobial resistance dynamics in poultry farms. He has also served as external examiner for Ph.D. theses from other countries, evidencing his continental influence.

IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Wampande has been instrumental in multiple resource mobilization efforts, securing national and international grants totaling over USD 1.3 million, supporting projects ranging from vector-borne diseases to molecular diagnostics and zoonotic infections. He led the “Stamp Out Sleeping Sickness” initiative in Eastern Uganda (2010–2015) and coordinated large-scale field surveys such as the serological bovine tuberculosis survey in Karamoja (2022) and control programs targeting tick and bacterial resistance (2015–2019). His work has directly impacted national policy on disease surveillance, diagnostics, and animal-human health interface management.

ACADEMIC CITES

His scholarly work and technical reviews have earned him appointments such as Reviewer for the International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases (2015–2017) and BMC Infectious Diseases (2017–2020). He is a member of several key scientific bodies, including the Genome Analysis Working Group and Microbiome Working Group under H3Africa, a continent-wide initiative promoting genomic research. His contributions to genome bioinformatics were further recognized by a three-month fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine, USA, funded by the MRC/UVRI Infection and Immunity Program.

LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Wampande’s legacy lies in his consistent dedication to training the next generation of African scientists, advancing research infrastructure, and deepening our understanding of infectious disease epidemiology. His participation in global initiatives like the THRiVE Program (Welcome Trust, UK) and Cambridge Africa’s Alborado Research Scheme underlines his commitment to collaborative science. Looking ahead, his ongoing Ph.D. supervision, continuous research in African Swine Fever epidemiology, and further exploration of zoonotic diseases place him in a pivotal role in shaping Africa's public health research landscape.

OTHER NOTABLE TOPICS

HONORS AND FELLOWSHIPS
Dr. Wampande has received numerous accolades, including the Makerere University Research Award for Excellence, Welcome Trust Postdoctoral Fellowship, and Gates Foundation Travel Grant.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
He remains an advocate for community-inclusive scientific approaches, using participatory methods to combat diseases and ensure sustainable practices in animal husbandry, agriculture, and diagnostics across Uganda.

RESOURCE MOBILIZATION EXPERTISE
He has led and co-led research projects funded by major organizations such as the United States Department of Agriculture, Defence Threat Reduction Agency, and the WHO/TDR, contributing to cross-sectoral innovation and knowledge application in both academic and governmental contexts.

NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS

"A description of the clinical signs and lesions of African swine fever, and its differential diagnoses in pigs slaughtered at selected abattoirs in central Uganda" 

  • Author: JE Ekakoro, A Nassali, C Hauser, K Ochoa, D Ndoboli, R Okwasiimire
  • Journal: Frontiers in Veterinary Science
  • Year: 2025

"Detection and molecular characterisation of fowl adenovirus associated with inclusion body hepatitis and hydropericardium syndrome in Uganda" 

  • Author: W Eneku, R Okwasiimire, F Mutebi, M Kisekka, S Kakooza, M Afayoa
  • Journal: Tropical Animal Health and Production
  • Year: 2025

"Patterns of compensatory mutations in rpoA/B/C genes of multidrug resistant M. tuberculosis in Uganda" 

  • Author: DP Kateete, S Namakula, E Kigozi, FA Katabazi, GW Kasule, K Musisi
  • Journal: bioRxiv
  • Year: 2025

"Hepatoprotective effect of methanol fruit extract of Punica granatum L in highly active antiretroviral therapy-induced toxicity in Wistar rats" 

  • Author: E Kwizera, EM Wampande, CD Kato, P Mujinya, A Wandera, F Bwambale
  • Journal: Drug and Chemical Toxicology
  • Year: 2024

"Polymorphisms in immune genes and their association with tuberculosis susceptibility: An analysis of the African population" 

  • Author: W Wodelo, EM Wampande, A Andama, DP Kateete, K Ssekatawa
  • Journal: The Application of Clinical Genetics
  • Year: 2024

Jing Dong| molecular epidemiology | Best Researcher Award

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Jing Dong| molecular epidemiology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor,Medical College of Wisconsin, United States📖

Dr. Jing Dong is an Assistant Professor at the Medical College of Wisconsin, specializing in molecular epidemiology. With expertise in studying the molecular mechanisms of diseases, Dr. Dong has made significant contributions to understanding disease prevention and public health. Her outstanding research work has earned her the Best Researcher Award, recognizing her innovative approaches and impactful findings in the field.

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Education Background🎓

Jing Dong, PhD, completed his Bachelor of Science degree at Nanjing Medical University in Jiangsu, China, from 2002 to 2007. He then pursued his PhD in Medical Sciences at the same institution, graduating in 2012.Dr. Dong’s academic career includes postdoctoral fellowships at prestigious institutions. From 2012 to 2017, he was a Postdoctoral Fellow at the Branch of Epidemiology, NIEHS/NIH, in Research Triangle Park, NC. Following this, he served as a Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) Postdoctoral Associate at the Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, in Houston, TX, from 2017 to 2020.

Professional Experience🌱

In 2020, Dr. Dong was appointed as an Assistant Professor in the Division of Hematology and Oncology at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW). He has also held roles in various collaborative initiatives such as the Community and Cancer Science Network (CCSN) and the Milwaukee Lung Cancer Collaborative Work Group. Additionally, he became a faculty member of the MCW Graduate School in 2023, qualifying as a Primary Master’s Thesis Mentor in the Precision Medicine program.

Research Interests🔬

Dr. Dong’s research primarily focuses on cancer genomics, health disparities in cancer, and the genetic underpinnings of multiple myeloma and other hematologic malignancies. His work aims to uncover genetic factors contributing to cancer progression, particularly in underrepresented populations such as African Americans. He also investigates the role of mitochondrial DNA in cancer and transplant outcomes, as well as improving precision medicine through genetic data analysis.

Awards & Honors:

Throughout his career, Dr. Dong has received multiple accolades, including the IARC/WHO Summer Fellowship in Cancer Epidemiology (2010), the CPRIT-awarded Postdoctoral Associate (2017), and the Medical College of Wisconsin Cancer Center Scientific Retreat Best Poster Award (2022). He also received the Faculty Development Award from the Department of Medicine at MCW in 2023.

Skills:

Dr. Dong is highly skilled in epidemiology, cancer genomics, and bioinformatics. He has expertise in conducting large-scale genomic studies, utilizing bioinformatic tools for data analysis, and mentoring graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in cancer research. His technical skills include genomic data analysis, genetic epidemiology, and advanced statistical methods for cancer research. He is also proficient in collaborating across interdisciplinary teams, fostering significant advancements in cancer biology and treatment strategies.

Publications Top Notes 📄

1.

  • Excessive burden of lysosomal storage disorder gene variants in Parkinson’s disease
    • Authors: LA Robak, IE Jansen, J Van Rooij, AG Uitterlinden, R Kraaij, J Jankovic, et al.
    • Journal: Brain
    • Volume: 140 (12), Pages: 3191-3203
    • Year: 2017
    • Citations: 420
  • Genome-wide association analysis identifies new lung cancer susceptibility loci in never-smoking women in Asia
    • Authors: Q Lan, CA Hsiung, K Matsuo, YC Hong, A Seow, Z Wang, HD Hosgood III, et al.
    • Journal: Nature Genetics
    • Volume: 44 (12), Pages: 1330-1335
    • Year: 2012
    • Citations: 346
  • A genome-wide association study identifies new susceptibility loci for non-cardia gastric cancer at 3q13.31 and 5p13.1
    • Authors: Y Shi, Z Hu, C Wu, J Dai, H Li, J Dong, M Wang, X Miao, Y Zhou, F Lu, et al.
    • Journal: Nature Genetics
    • Volume: 43 (12), Pages: 1215-1218
    • Year: 2011
    • Citations: 313
  • Early second-trimester serum miRNA profiling predicts gestational diabetes mellitus
    • Authors: C Zhao, J Dong, T Jiang, Z Shi, B Yu, Y Zhu, D Chen, J Xu, R Huo, J Dai, et al.
    • Journal: PloS One
    • Volume: 6 (8), Article e23925
    • Year: 2011
    • Citations: 291
  • Serum microRNA profiling and breast cancer risk: the use of miR-484/191 as endogenous controls
    • Authors: Z Hu, J Dong, LE Wang, H Ma, J Liu, Y Zhao, J Tang, X Chen, J Dai, et al.
    • Journal: Carcinogenesis
    • Volume: 33 (4), Pages: 828-834
    • Year: 2012
    • Citations: 257
  • Plasma miRNAs as early biomarkers for detecting hepatocellular carcinoma
    • Authors: Y Wen, J Han, J Chen, J Dong, Y Xia, J Liu, Y Jiang, J Dai, J Lu, G Jin, et al.
    • Journal: International Journal of Cancer
    • Volume: 137 (7), Pages: 1679-1690
    • Year: 2015
    • Citations: 241
  • Seminal plasma microRNAs: potential biomarkers for spermatogenesis status
    • Authors: W Wu, Z Hu, Y Qin, J Dong, J Dai, C Lu, W Zhang, H Shen, Y Xia, X Wang
    • Journal: Molecular Human Reproduction
    • Volume: 18 (10), Pages: 489-497
    • Year: 2012
    • Citations: 161
  • Genome-wide microRNA expression profiling in idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia: significant up-regulation of miR-141, miR-429, and miR-7-1-3p
    • Authors: W Wu, Y Qin, Z Li, J Dong, J Dai, C Lu, X Guo, Y Zhao, Y Zhu, W Zhang, et al.
    • Journal: Human Reproduction
    • Volume: 28 (7), Pages: 1827-1836
    • Year: 2013
    • Citations: 160
  • Association analyses identify multiple new lung cancer susceptibility loci and their interactions with smoking in the Chinese population
    • Authors: J Dong, Z Hu, C Wu, H Guo, B Zhou, J Lv, D Lu, K Chen, Y Shi, M Chu, et al.
    • Journal: Nature Genetics
    • Volume: 44 (8), Pages: 895-899
    • Year: 2012
    • Citations: 156
  • Alcohol, smoking, and risk of oesophago-gastric cancer
    • Authors: J Dong, AP Thrift
    • Journal: Best Practice & Research Clinical Gastroenterology
    • Volume: 31 (5), Pages: 509-517
    • Year: 2017
    • Citations: 151

Conclusion

Dr. Jing Dong’s exceptional research expertise, leadership, mentorship, and dedication to addressing cancer health disparities make him an ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His multifaceted approach to scientific inquiry and his consistent track record of high-impact publications and presentations establish him as a standout figure in his field. With further emphasis on translational research and broader public engagement, Dr. Dong has the potential to make even more profound contributions to both scientific discovery and patient care.

Zahra Barati | epidemiology | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Zahra Barati | epidemiology | Best Researcher Award

Zahra Barati at  Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran📝

Zahra Barati is a skilled epidemiologist with a strong foundation in public health research and statistical analysis. She has demonstrated excellence in academic achievements, teaching, and leadership within her field. As a distinguished student and a dedicated researcher, Zahra has contributed to significant research in infectious disease epidemiology, including a recent thesis on bovine brucellosis, and has received multiple recognitions for her academic and professional contributions.

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Education 🎓

Zahra Barati holds a Master’s degree in Epidemiology (MSc) from the School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, completed in February 2024. Her thesis, supervised by Professor Shahrokh Izadi, focused on “Bovine Brucellosis, Associated Risk Factors, and Preventive Measures in Industrial Cattle Farms.” During her master’s program, Zahra acquired extensive knowledge in epidemiology and biostatistics, covering topics such as epidemiological methods, statistical methods in epidemiology, and the epidemiology of infectious and non-communicable diseases. She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Public Health at Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Iran, in June 2016.

Professional Experience 💼

Zahra has been actively involved in teaching, research, and leadership roles throughout her academic journey. She instructed undergraduate students in public health internship courses at Semnan University of Medical Sciences. Additionally, she served as Secretary of the Epidemiology and Biostatistics Student Scientific Association at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, leading workshops and activities for two years. Her professional accomplishments also include being recognized as an outstanding employee at Semnan Medical Sciences Health Center (2017-2019) and winning the Red Crescent First Aid Competition at Semnan University of Medical Sciences in 2018.

Research Interests 🔬

Zahra’s research focuses on designing and conducting epidemiological studies with a particular interest in infectious and non-communicable diseases. Her expertise includes cross-sectional, case-control, cohort studies, clinical trials, and vaccine studies. Additionally, she has specialized skills in multivariate analysis, survival analysis, and statistical software (SPSS and Stata).

Author Metrics 🏆

Zahra Barati has contributed to the field of epidemiology through various academic presentations, including poster and speaking engagements at the International Congress of Epidemiology, where she shared her research findings. Her work has been well-received within academic circles, highlighting her expertise in public health issues and infectious disease epidemiology. Her research outputs, particularly in the areas of bovine brucellosis and COVID-19, showcase her ability to conduct and interpret complex epidemiological studies, contributing valuable insights to the field. Zahra’s author metrics reflect her growing influence in epidemiology, as evidenced by her active participation in international conferences and scientific associations, with future publication opportunities anticipated as she continues to expand her research portfolio.

Publications Top Notes 📚
  1. “Risk Factors Associated with Severity and Death from COVID-19 in Iran: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Study”
    • Authors: Mehri, A., Sotoodeh Ghorbani, S., Farhadi-Babadi, K., Rahimi, E., Barati, Z., Taherpour, N., et al.
    • Journal: Journal of Intensive Care Medicine
    • Year: 2023
    • Volume and Issue: 38(9)
    • Pages: 825-837
    • Summary: This study systematically reviews and performs a meta-analysis on data regarding COVID-19 severity and mortality in Iran, identifying significant risk factors linked to adverse outcomes. The research synthesizes findings from multiple studies to provide insights on how demographic, health-related, and environmental factors impact COVID-19 outcomes, aiding in targeted public health interventions.
  2. “Bovine Brucellosis, Associated Risk Factors and Preventive Measures in Industrial Cattle Farms: A Case-Control Study”
    • Authors: Izadi, S., Moghaddas, V., Feizi, A., Bahreinipour, A., Barati, Z.
    • Journal: Heliyon
    • Year: 2024
    • Summary: This case-control study investigates the risk factors and preventative strategies for bovine brucellosis in industrial cattle farms. The paper provides a comprehensive analysis of management practices, environmental factors, and other variables that contribute to the incidence of brucellosis. The findings offer actionable recommendations for reducing infection rates and implementing effective control measures in cattle farms.

Conclusion

Zahra Barati stands out as a highly capable epidemiologist with a strong foundation in research, teaching, and leadership within her field. Her academic achievements, combined with her professional recognitions and technical expertise, make her an excellent candidate for the “Best Researcher Award.” To maximize her research impact and further her career, Zahra could focus on increasing her publication count, expanding her research scope, and seeking more international collaborations. Given her dedication and accomplishments, Zahra is well-positioned for this award and demonstrates great potential to continue contributing to public health and epidemiology.