Philipp Kanske | Medicine | Research Excellence Award

Prof. Dr. Philipp Kanske | Medicine | Research Excellence Award

Professor | TUD Dresden University of Technology | Germany

Prof. Dr. Philipp Kanske is an internationally recognized expert in cognitive and affective neuroscience whose work bridges psychology, social cognition, neuroimaging, and mental health research. His research centers on empathy, compassion, emotion regulation, personality functioning, and the neurobiological mechanisms that shape human social behavior across the lifespan. He investigates how individuals perceive and respond to others’ emotions, how empathic stress is transmitted within families, and how interventions such as meditation and compassion training can induce functional neural plasticity and improve emotional well-being, particularly in older adults. His interests extend to personality organization in both clinical and non-clinical populations, disease progression in bipolar disorder, white-matter microstructure, attachment dynamics in couples, value integration for self and others, and ritual-based methods for strengthening human–nature connectedness in the context of sustainability transformations. Prof. Kanske is skilled in a wide range of methodologies including experimental psychology, behavioral analysis, longitudinal study design, cognitive testing, psychoneuroendocrinology, structural and functional MRI, and advanced statistical modeling. His contributions to research transparency and reproducibility are reflected in his leadership in developing the PECANS methodological framework for cognitive and neuropsychological studies. Throughout his career, he has received multiple awards and honors (as listed in Scopus’s “Awarded Grants” section), recognizing his innovative contributions to social neuroscience, aging research, and clinical psychology. According to Scopus Preview, he has 7,136 citations, 163 documents, and an impressive h-index of 43, underscoring his global scientific influence and sustained scholarly productivity. Overall, Prof. Dr. Philipp Kanske’s work provides significant insights into how emotional, neural, and relational processes shape human behavior, offering important implications for mental health, interpersonal functioning, and societal well-being, and solidifying his role as a leading figure in modern neuroscience and psychology.

ProfilesScopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

  1. Kanske, P., Heissler, J., Schönfelder, S., Bongers, A., & Wessa, M. (2011). How to regulate emotion? Neural networks for reappraisal and distraction. Cerebral Cortex, 21(6), 1379–138.
    Citations: 698

  2. Schurz, M., Radua, J., Tholen, M. G., Maliske, L., Margulies, D. S., Mars, R. B., … Kanske, P. (2021). Toward a hierarchical model of social cognition: A neuroimaging meta-analysis and integrative review of empathy and theory of mind. Psychological Bulletin, 147(3), 293–. Citations: 648

  3. Kanske, P., & Kotz, S. A. (2007). Concreteness in emotional words: ERP evidence from a hemifield study. Brain Research, 1148, 138–148. Citations: 630

  4. Preckel, K., Kanske, P., & Singer, T. (2018). On the interaction of social affect and cognition: Empathy, compassion and theory of mind. Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences, 19, 1–6.
    Citations: 554

  5. Moshontz, H., Campbell, L., Ebersole, C. R., IJzerman, H., Urry, H. L., Forscher, P. S., … Kanske, P. (2018). The Psychological Science Accelerator: Advancing psychology through a distributed collaborative network. Advances in Methods and Practices in Psychological Science, 1(4), 501–515. Citations: 499

Prof. Dr. Philipp Kanske’s work advances global scientific understanding of empathy, compassion, and emotion regulation by uncovering the neural and psychological mechanisms that drive healthy social functioning. His research enables evidence-based mental-health interventions, strengthens human well-being across communities, and supports interdisciplinary innovation in neuroscience, clinical psychology, aging research, and societal resilience.

 

Nancy Blumenthal | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nancy Blumenthal | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Advanced Senior Lecturer at  University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing | United States

Dr. Nancy P. Blumenthal, DNP, ACNP-BC, is a distinguished nurse scientist and advanced practice leader recognized for her pioneering contributions to lung transplantation and cardiopulmonary care. With a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Health Policy and Leadership from Yale University and advanced nursing degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and Boston University, she has built a career grounded in academic excellence and clinical expertise. Her research focuses on organ allocation strategies, transplant outcomes, and patient-centered innovations, supported by notable grants including the Fu-Mei Lee Research and Innovation Grant. Widely published in premier journals such as Chest, American Journal of Transplantation, and Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation, her work bridges evidence-based research with transformative clinical application. In addition to her scholarly achievements, Dr. Blumenthal is a respected educator, mentor, and leader in professional societies, advancing global nursing standards and shaping policies that improve patient care and healthcare delivery worldwide.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile 

Education

Dr. Nancy P. Blumenthal’s educational journey reflects her dedication to advancing nursing science and healthcare leadership. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in Health Policy and Leadership from Yale University, a program that strengthened her expertise in healthcare systems, evidence-based policy, and organizational leadership. Prior to Yale, she pursued advanced nursing education at the University of Pennsylvania, where she refined her clinical skills in acute and critical care. Her academic foundation began at Boston University, where she cultivated her passion for patient-centered care and medical innovation. Collectively, these esteemed institutions shaped her as a clinician, researcher, and policy advocate. Her education seamlessly integrates theory with practice, preparing her to tackle pressing healthcare challenges. By combining advanced clinical training with leadership-focused education, Dr. Blumenthal has positioned herself as both a thought leader and practitioner, capable of bridging the gap between frontline care delivery and high-level healthcare policymaking.

Experience

Dr. Blumenthal’s professional career highlights her dual expertise as a clinician and academic leader. With extensive experience in lung transplantation and advanced cardiopulmonary care, she has played a pivotal role in developing innovative strategies to improve patient survival and quality of life. Her leadership extends beyond bedside practice to institutional governance, where she has influenced healthcare policy, organizational design, and the integration of advanced nursing practice into multidisciplinary teams. She has also served as principal investigator and co-investigator on numerous funded research projects, including international collaborations focused on transplantation outcomes and organ allocation systems. As an educator, she has mentored emerging clinicians and researchers, fostering the next generation of nurse leaders. She is a respected voice in professional organizations, contributing to committees, conferences, and knowledge-sharing platforms. Dr. Blumenthal’s experience reflects a career dedicated not only to advancing science and patient care but also to shaping healthcare systems for sustainable improvement.

Research Interest

Dr. Blumenthal’s research interests focus on the critical intersection of clinical innovation, healthcare policy, and patient-centered outcomes. She is particularly dedicated to advancing lung transplantation research, with an emphasis on improving organ allocation frameworks, optimizing transplant survival, and addressing barriers to equitable access. Her studies often explore how evidence-based strategies can enhance both patient safety and long-term outcomes in complex cardiopulmonary care. She is also deeply interested in the integration of nursing leadership within transplantation research, highlighting the unique role of advanced practice nurses in bridging clinical practice with scholarly inquiry. Beyond transplantation, her research spans healthcare quality improvement, patient engagement, and the development of resilience in clinical teams. She actively collaborates with interdisciplinary researchers and policymakers, ensuring her work remains both relevant and impactful. Her research philosophy emphasizes not only generating knowledge but also translating it into sustainable models that transform healthcare delivery across diverse populations.

Award and Honor

Throughout her career, Dr. Blumenthal has received recognition for her scholarly excellence, clinical leadership, and policy contributions. Her research has been supported by notable grants such as the Fu-Mei Lee Research and Innovation Grant, which enabled significant advancements in transplantation science. She has published extensively in top-tier journals, including Chest, American Journal of Transplantation, and Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation, earning professional acclaim and high citation impact. In addition to her academic achievements, she has been honored by professional organizations such as the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT), the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), and Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, reflecting her global recognition as a leader. Her awards highlight her commitment to advancing nursing education, healthcare innovation, and policy development. Collectively, these honors affirm her reputation as an influential figure who continuously contributes to both practice and scholarly advancement.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Factors affecting integration of the nurse practitioner workforce into health systems: a Delphi consensus study
Year: 2025
Citation: 3

Title: Adaptation of the Nurse Practitioner Integration Model for older adult primary care models
Year: 2025
Citation: 2

Title: Mismatch identified in symptom burden profiles in lung transplantation: Symptom Burden Profiles
Year: 2023
Citation: 3

Conclusion

Dr. Nancy P. Blumenthal exemplifies the qualities of a transformative nurse leader, scholar, and clinician whose work has significantly shaped lung transplantation and advanced nursing practice. With a strong academic foundation, extensive clinical experience, and pioneering research, she has become a recognized authority in both clinical and academic spheres. Her contributions extend beyond individual research to policy reform, interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentorship, creating ripple effects that elevate healthcare systems. By integrating education, research, and leadership, she has advanced patient outcomes while inspiring innovation in nursing practice worldwide. Her recognitions and honors stand as a testament to her enduring influence in healthcare. As a mentor and role model, she continues to nurture future generations of nursing leaders, ensuring sustainability and growth within the profession. Dr. Blumenthal’s career embodies excellence, dedication, and vision, making her a highly respected figure in nursing and an inspiration across the global healthcare landscape.

Pavel Vodicka | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Pavel Vodicka | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Senior researcher at Charles University in Prague Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Czech Republic

Prof. Dr. Pavel Vodička is a distinguished Czech scientist whose career has been devoted to unraveling the genetic, molecular, and environmental mechanisms underlying cancer, particularly colorectal and gastrointestinal malignancies. With a Ph.D. in toxicology from Charles University and a D.Sc. in molecular oncology, he has led pioneering research on DNA repair, genomic instability, cancer predisposition, and therapy response. Over four decades, he has held prominent academic and research leadership roles, including Head of the Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer at the Institute of Experimental Medicine. Internationally respected, he has contributed to EU Framework Programs, bilateral collaborations, and global cancer genetics consortia. His prolific record includes more than 320 publications, 12,000+ citations, and service on editorial boards and evaluation panels. Beyond research, he is a dedicated mentor of doctoral students and an invited lecturer worldwide. Prof. Vodička’s lifelong contributions have significantly advanced cancer biology, prevention, and therapeutic strategies.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile  

Education

Prof. Dr. Pavel Vodička’s academic journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing biomedical science. He completed his medical studies at the Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, followed by doctoral research at the National Institute of Public Health, where he earned his Ph.D  with a thesis on the metabolism and toxicity of acrylic acid derivatives. Guided by the esteemed scientist Ivan Gut, M.D., D.Sc., this early training provided him with a strong foundation in molecular toxicology. Over the years, he enriched his expertise through international fellowships and visiting scientist roles at renowned institutions such as the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health in Helsinki and the Karolinska Institute in Sweden. His academic pursuits culminated in the prestigious Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) degree, awarded for his extensive research on genetic, molecular, and environmental risk factors in colorectal cancer. This educational background positioned him as a global leader in cancer biology.

Experience

Prof. Vodička’s professional career spans more than four decades, marked by leadership, innovation, and global collaboration. Beginning as a postdoctoral fellow in Finland and later as a visiting scientist at Karolinska Institute, he gained valuable exposure to international research environments. He returned to Prague to contribute significantly at the Institute of Experimental Medicine, where he advanced from senior scientist to Head of the Department of Molecular Biology of Cancer, a position . His leadership was instrumental in shaping cutting-edge programs in genetic and molecular toxicology. Alongside, he has been deeply engaged in teaching and supervising doctoral students at Charles University, serving on multiple academic boards and examination committees. He also participated in evaluating research projects for prestigious bodies such as the EU Commission, WHO-IARC, and Czech Science Foundation. His career demonstrates a rare combination of scientific productivity, institutional leadership, and mentorship excellence.

Research Interest

Prof. Vodička’s research interests center on understanding how genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors contribute to cancer initiation, progression, and treatment outcomes. He has dedicated much of his recent work to colorectal and pancreatic cancers, focusing on predisposition, DNA repair mechanisms, and chemotherapy effectiveness. His studies explore chromosomal instability, telomere dynamics, and functional assays of DNA repair capacity in both healthy individuals and cancer patients. He has also investigated how lifestyle, occupational exposures, and oxidative damage influence disease onset and prognosis, bridging molecular research with public health relevance. His multidisciplinary approach integrates molecular biology, toxicology, epidemiology, and clinical oncology, enabling a holistic view of carcinogenesis. By collaborating with international consortia such as GECCO and PANDoRA, he contributes to global efforts to identify biomarkers for cancer susceptibility and treatment response. Prof. Vodička’s innovative research continues to shape strategies for early detection, prevention, and improved therapeutic interventions in oncology.

Award and Honor

Prof. Vodička’s scientific achievements have been recognized through numerous awards and honors, reflecting his international reputation and lifelong contributions. He received the Award from the Ministry of Health of the Czech Republic for his groundbreaking work on DNA adducts in occupational exposures. More recently, he was honored with the prestigious Silver Medal of Charles University for his exceptional service in advancing medical science. His global standing is reinforced by being ranked among the top molecular biology scientists in the Czech Republic by Research.com, including the first position in his discipline. Additionally, he has been frequently invited as a reviewer of professorial appointments at leading institutions such as MD Anderson Cancer Center and Memorial University. His editorial leadership in journals like Mutagenesis and Frontiers in Oncology further underlines his impact. Collectively, these honors showcase his role as a thought leader in cancer research.

Publication Top Notes

Title: The exposome and pancreatic cancer, lifestyle and environmental risk factors for PDACPavel Vodicka
Authors: Giulia Peduzzi, Livia Archibugi, Riccardo Farinella, Ruggero Ponz de Leon Pisani, Ludmila Vodickova, Pavel Vodicka, Bledar Kraja, Juan Sainz, David Bars-Cortina, Neil Daniel et al.
Journal/Conference: Seminars in Cancer Biology
Year: 2025
Citation: 2

Title: Genomic instability, DNA damage response and telomere homeostasis in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Saba Selvi, Carmen Macías Real, Manuel Gentiluomo, Katerina Balounova, Klara Vokacova, Andrea Cumova, Beatrice Mohlenikova-Duchonova, Cosmeri Rizzato, Erika Halasova, Ludmila Vodickova, Pavel Vodicka et al.
Journal/Conference: Seminars in Cancer Biology
Year: 2025
Citation: 1

Title: Pooled analysis of 3,741 stool metagenomes from 18 cohorts for cross-stage and strain-level reproducible microbial biomarkers of colorectal cancer
Authors: Multiple contributors (Nature Medicine consortium, includes Pavel Vodicka)
Journal/Conference: Nature Medicine
Year: 2025
Citation: 4

Title: A pooled analysis of host factors that affect nucleotide excision repair in humans
Authors: Congying Zheng, Sergey Shaposhnikov, Andrew Collins, Gunnar Brunborg, Amaya Azqueta, Sabine A S Langie, Maria Dusinska, Jana Slyskova, Pavel Vodicka, Frederik-Jan van Schooten et al.
Journal/Conference: Mutagenesis
Year: 2025

Title: A pleiotropy scan to discover new susceptibility loci for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Matteo Giaccherini, Mariaconcetta Rende, Manuel Gentiluomo, Chiara Corradi, Livia Archibugi, Stefano Ermini, Evaristo Maiello, Luca Morelli, Casper H J van Eijck, Giulia Martina Cavestro, Pavel Vodicka et al.
Journal/Conference: Mutagenesis
Year: 2025

Title: Defective DNA repair: a putative nexus linking immunological diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer
Authors: Safaa Andarawi, Ludmila Vodickova, Anusha Uttarilli, Petr Hanak, Pavel Vodicka
Journal/Conference: Mutagenesis
Year: 2025
Citation: 1

Title: Genetic, epigenetic and functional aspects of DNA repair in colorectal carcinogenesis
Authors: Pavel Vodicka, Ludmila Vodickova et al.
Journal/Conference:Carcinogenesis
Year: 2022
Citation: 45

Title: Telomere homeostasis and genomic instability in gastrointestinal cancers
Authors: Pavel Vodicka, Ludmila Vodickova et al.
Journal/Conference: International Journal of Cancer
Year: 2021
Citation: 38

Title: Genetic susceptibility to colorectal cancer in Central Europe: a large-scale collaborative study
Authors: Pavel Vodicka, Hermann Brenner, Andrea Gsur et al.
Journal/Conference: Gut
Year: 2020
Citation: 120

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Pavel Vodička exemplifies the qualities of a globally influential scientist, mentor, and leader in the field of cancer research. His academic foundation, extensive research experience, and sustained contributions to molecular oncology have significantly advanced the understanding of cancer susceptibility, genomic instability, and therapy response. With over 320 publications, thousands of citations, and participation in numerous international consortia, he has left a lasting mark on global cancer research and prevention strategies. His commitment to teaching, mentoring, and guiding young scientists reflects his vision for nurturing the next generation of researchers. Recognized with prestigious awards, including the Silver Medal of Charles University, his career is a testament to excellence, integrity, and innovation. Moving forward, his research and leadership promise to further influence cancer biology, shaping future diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic pathways. Prof. Vodička’s legacy firmly establishes him as an outstanding figure deserving the highest honors in science.