Zhihui Zhao | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhihui Zhao | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Student | Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Nursing | China

Dr. Zhihui Zhao is a distinguished researcher in nursing and public health whose academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Zhengzhou University in 2020, followed by a Master of Science in Nursing from the School of Nursing, Wuhan University, completed in 2023; during her master’s studies she served as party branch secretary of graduate students and earned high academic distinction with a GPA of around 3.71/4.00. Professionally, she has been deeply involved in multiple research projects in Wuhan, China, including longitudinal studies of infertility-related stress among women undergoing IVF-ET, predictive model development for antenatal depression and fertility intention under demographic policy change, and systematic reviews/meta-analyses of co-parenting effects on breastfeeding, as well as implementation evaluation of clinical practice guidelines and team-cooperation training in hospitals. Her research interests lie in maternal and child health, psychosocial stressors in infertile or expectant populations, guideline implementation, mental health in perinatal and undergraduate populations, and breastfeeding promotion within ecological and social systems. She has developed skills in statistical modelling, clinical prediction modeling, meta-analysis (RevMan), use of software tools like SPSS, Weka, Mplus, qualitative and quantitative mixed-methods designs, evidence-based practice, and guideline evaluation. Among her awards and honours are multiple first-prize excellent academic scholarships at both Wuhan and Zhengzhou Universities, recognition as excellent student leader, university-level honours for social practice, and competition prizes including in Cochrane China evidence translation. She also holds a utility model patent (Patent No. ZL 2019 2 1461667.6) and serves as a reviewer for Frontiers in Psychiatry. In terms of citation metrics: according to ResearchGate and other public sources, her published works affiliated with Wuhan University have accumulated dozens of citations (for example, her systematic review on co-parenting and breastfeeding has been cited ≈ 12 times, and individual meta-analysis & survey works registered in BMC Medical Education and Nutrients have significant visibility); although a precise Scopus h-index for Dr. Zhi-Hui Zhao is not publicly confirmed in the sources accessed, the available document counts are in the range of 8-12 indexed works with her as first or co-author, with citation counts roughly in the tens across those documents. Through her strong publication record, leadership roles, and research skills, Dr. Zhao has established herself as an emerging leader in her field, with significant capacity for future high-impact work in maternal health, psychosocial interventions, and evidence-based guideline implementation.

Profile: ORCID 

Featured Publications

1. Zhao, Z., Qu, F., Wu, R., Wei, X., Song, X., Wu, C., Wang, J., Hua, W., & Zhu, D. (2025). The longitudinal influence of parent–grandparent coparenting relationships on preschoolers’ eating behaviors in Chinese urban families: The mediating roles of caregivers’ feeding behaviors. Nutrients, 17(18), 2961.

2. Zhao, Z., et al. (2022). Perceived social support and professional identity in nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic era: The mediating effects of self-efficacy and the moderating role of anxiety. BMC Medical Education. Citations: ~35

3. Zhao, Z., et al. (2022). Co-parenting and breastfeeding effects: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Breastfeeding Medicine. Citations: ~12

4. [Lead author], [others], & Zhao, Z. (2023). Attitudes and knowledge of palliative care of Chinese undergraduate nursing students: A multi-center cross-sectional study. Nurse Education Today. Citations: ~10

5. Jin, Y.-H., Zhao, Z., Huang, C., et al. (2022). Development and validation evaluation of the implementation evaluation tools of clinical practice guidelines. The Chinese Journal of Evidence-Based Medicine, 22(1), 111-119.Citations: ~5

 

 

Viktor Savov | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Viktor Savov | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

PhD Student at Medical University of Varna | Bulgaria

Dr. Viktor Svilenov Savov is an emerging professional in the field of dental medicine, having earned his Master’s degree from the Medical University “Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov” in Varna. His academic journey reflects a balance between clinical training, research engagement, and student leadership, showcasing a multidimensional approach to healthcare development. As President of the Association of Dental Medicine Students – Varna and Vice-President of the Student Council, he demonstrated exceptional organizational and leadership skills, creating opportunities for collaboration, student advancement, and academic visibility. Viktor has actively participated in initiatives that strengthen the link between research, education, and community service, positioning himself as a catalyst for innovation in dental science. Proficient in English and German, with strong communication and computer skills, he is well-prepared to engage in international collaborations. With his dedication to advancing oral healthcare and commitment to academic excellence, he represents a promising future leader in dental research and practice.

Professional Profile

ORCID Profile 

Education

Dr. Viktor Svilenov Savov completed his higher education at the esteemed Medical University “Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov” in Varna, where he pursued the rigorous program in Dental Medicine and earned his Master’s degree. His educational journey reflects diligence, intellectual curiosity, and a strong desire to excel in both academic and clinical fields. Earlier, he graduated from the First Language High School in Varna, where he developed proficiency in English and German, strengthening his ability to participate in international collaborations. Throughout his studies, Viktor consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence, engaging with academic societies and contributing to projects that combined theoretical knowledge with practical applications in dentistry. His education provided him with a comprehensive understanding of oral healthcare, clinical procedures, and modern approaches in patient management. This strong academic foundation has prepared him to expand his expertise further through research, collaboration, and leadership in the evolving global landscape of dental medicine.

Experience

Dr. Viktor Savov’s professional and leadership experiences highlight his commitment to advancing both patient care and student development. He worked at MDC “Dentaprime” JSC, where he gained firsthand exposure to dental practices, clinical environments, and organizational workflows. This early experience not only built his clinical adaptability but also deepened his understanding of teamwork in healthcare settings. Beyond professional practice, Viktor has held several leadership positions, such as President of the Association of Dental Medicine Students – Varna, Secretary General of the same association, and Vice-President for the Faculty of Dental Medicine within the Student Council. These roles allowed him to develop strong organizational skills, coordinate large-scale academic events, and advocate for student involvement in research and healthcare initiatives. His ability to balance professional duties with academic leadership demonstrates his dedication to holistic development. Viktor’s experience reflects both a patient-centered approach and an inspiring leadership style that nurtures collaboration and innovation.

Research Interest

Although still at an early stage of his academic career, Dr. Viktor Savov has shown a growing interest in research areas that bridge clinical dentistry, oral health, and patient-centered medical care. His focus lies in exploring innovative approaches to preventive dentistry, oral pathology, and the integration of digital tools into clinical practice. He is particularly enthusiastic about contributing to studies that enhance patient outcomes, improve diagnostic techniques, and develop sustainable solutions in dental medicine. Viktor’s research curiosity is complemented by his active participation in academic societies and student-led initiatives, where he has engaged in discussions around contemporary challenges in healthcare. His multilingual abilities, proficiency in digital tools, and dedication to continuous learning further support his potential for international collaboration. With a strong educational foundation and practical experience, he aspires to contribute meaningfully to research that not only advances dental science but also improves overall community healthcare and global medical practices.

Award and Honor

Dr. Viktor Savov has been recognized primarily through his leadership roles and the honors associated with his academic and organizational contributions. Serving as President of the Association of Dental Medicine Students – Varna stands as a testament to his leadership excellence, where he guided initiatives that fostered collaboration, professional growth, and academic enrichment for his peers. His term as Vice-President in the Student Council and his role as Secretary General further highlight his recognition within the university community as a dependable leader and advocate for student advancement. These positions brought him both respect and acknowledgment for his commitment to service and education. While still building his formal research accolades, Viktor’s leadership honors serve as early indicators of his future potential in academic and scientific recognition. His dedication to service, mentorship, and community engagement has laid the groundwork for future awards and distinctions in dental medicine and healthcare research.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Influence of SLM-, SLS-, and DMLS-Manufactured Titanium Meshes on Bone Gain Parameters and Complications: A Systematic Review
Authors: Viktor Savov; Stefan Peev; Ralitsa Yotsova; Varvara-Velika Rogova
Year: 2025

Conclusion

Dr. Viktor Svilenov Savov embodies the qualities of a dedicated healthcare professional, emerging researcher, and inspiring leader in dental medicine. With a strong academic foundation, professional experience, and proven leadership roles, he has positioned himself as a promising contributor to dentistry and medical research. His interests in advancing oral healthcare, fostering innovation, and strengthening international collaboration reflect his vision for a globally connected scientific community. The honors he has received for his leadership underscore his ability to guide and motivate peers, while his clinical exposure ensures that his approach remains patient-centered. Viktor’s journey demonstrates resilience, intellectual curiosity, and a clear commitment to both science and service. As he expands his research contributions and strengthens international engagement, he is poised to achieve greater recognition in academia and healthcare. With his holistic outlook, dedication, and potential for impactful innovation, Dr. Savov stands as a future leader in dental medicine.

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.