Raeesa Manjoo-Docrat | Infectious Diseases | Young Researcher Award

Dr. Raeesa Manjoo-Docrat | Infectious Diseases | Young Researcher Award 

Lecturer | Univeristy of the Witwatersrand | South Africa

Dr. Raeesa Manjoo-Docrat is a developing scholar affiliated with the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, whose work contributes to the advancement of quantitative epidemiology and public health modelling in South Africa. Her research focuses on the development and application of spatial, age-stratified epidemiological models aimed at understanding disease transmission dynamics within heterogeneous populations. With four peer-reviewed publications and 27 citations, she has established a growing academic footprint supported by an h-index of 2, reflecting the early but significant influence of her work. Her recent open-access article in Heliyon (2025), which applies spatial modelling frameworks to the South African COVID-19 pandemic, exemplifies her commitment to integrating mathematical rigor with real-world public health challenges. Manjoo-Docrat has collaborated with multidisciplinary teams comprising epidemiologists, mathematicians, and public health scientists, enabling her to contribute to robust analytical frameworks and high-quality scientific outputs. These collaborations also highlight her ability to operate effectively within diverse research environments and to engage in evidence-based problem solving that supports both academic and policy-relevant outcomes. Her research sits at the intersection of infectious disease dynamics, health systems planning, and data-driven decision support, positioning her work within a globally relevant domain of applied epidemiology. Beyond academic metrics, her contributions have societal impact by informing approaches to epidemic preparedne  ss, guiding interventions for vulnerable demographic groups, and enhancing understanding of spatial disparities in health outcomes. Through her continued scholarship, Manjoo-Docrat aims to strengthen the integration of mathematical modelling into national and regional public health strategies, ensuring that data-informed insights contribute to improved health resilience and equitable disease control.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Manjoo-Docrat, R., Abdelatif, N., Holloway, J., Dudeni-Tlhone, N., Dresselhaus, C., Mbayise, E., … Makhanya, S. (2025). Spatial age-stratified epidemiological model with applications to South African COVID-19 pandemic. Heliyon, 11(11), e43171. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2025.e43171

2. Dresselhaus, C., Fabris-Rotelli, I., Manjoo-Docrat, R., Brettenny, W., Holloway, J., Thiede, R., Debba, P., & Dudeni-Tlhone, N. (2023). A spatial model with vaccinations for COVID-19 in South Africa. Spatial Statistics, 58, Article 100792. Cited by 2.

3. Manjoo-Docrat, R. (2022). A spatio-stochastic model for the spread of infectious diseases. Journal of Theoretical Biology, 533, 110943.  Cited by 16.

4. Fabris-Rotelli, I., Holloway, J., Kimmie, Z., Archibald, S., Debba, P., Manjoo-Docrat, R., … Potgieter, A. (2022). A Spatial SEIR Model for COVID-19 in South Africa. Journal of Data Science, Statistics, and Visualisation, 2(7), 14–45.  Cited by 5.

Fangfang Tao | Chikungunya Virus | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Fangfang Tao | Chikungunya Virus | Best Researcher Award 

Zhejiang Chinese Medical University | China

Prof. Dr. Fangfang Tao is a dedicated researcher at Zhejiang Chinese Medical University whose work spans integrative medicine, public health, and translational biomedical science. With a portfolio of 35 peer-reviewed publications and over 380 citations, Dr. Tao has established a growing scholarly presence supported by an h-index of 11, reflecting consistent influence and research quality. Her contributions often integrate traditional Chinese medical principles with modern clinical and epidemiological approaches, advancing evidence-based understanding of disease mechanisms, therapeutic strategies, and patient-centered health outcomes. Dr. Tao’s collaborative record is extensive, with partnerships involving more than 100 co-authors across national and international institutions, demonstrating her commitment to interdisciplinary inquiry and global scientific engagement. Her work contributes meaningfully to emerging health challenges by prioritizing rigorous methodology, culturally relevant medical insights, and innovative therapeutic frameworks. Through her research, Dr. Tao aims to bridge traditional medical knowledge with contemporary biomedical science to enhance clinical practice, inform health policy, and promote accessible, effective care. Her scholarly achievements underscore not only a strong trajectory in academic research but also a broader societal impact, as her studies support improved diagnostic approaches, better-targeted interventions, and enhanced patient well-being across diverse populations.

Featured Publications

1. Niu, N., Zhang, J., Zhang, N., Mercado-Uribe, I., Tao, F., Han, Z., Pathak, S., … (2016). Linking genomic reorganization to tumor initiation via the giant cell cycle. Oncogenesis, 5(12), e281.
Cited by: 169

2. Tao, F., Tian, X., Ruan, S., Shen, M., & Zhang, Z. (2018). miR‐211 sponges lncRNA MALAT1 to suppress tumor growth and progression through inhibiting PHF19 in ovarian carcinoma. The FASEB Journal, 32(11), 6330–6343.
Cited by: 92

3. Tao, F., Tian, X., Lu, M., & Zhang, Z. (2018). A novel lncRNA, Lnc-OC1, promotes ovarian cancer cell proliferation and migration by sponging miR-34a and miR-34c. Journal of Genetics and Genomics, 45(3), 137–145.
Cited by: 59

4. Tian, X., Tao, F., Zhang, B., Dong, J. T., & Zhang, Z. (2018). The miR‐203/SNAI2 axis regulates prostate tumor growth, migration, angiogenesis and stemness potentially by modulating GSK‐3β/β-catenin signal pathway. IUBMB Life, 70(3), 224–236.
Cited by: 42

5. Jiang, X., Cui, X., Xu, H., Liu, W., Tao, F., Shao, T., Pan, X., & Zheng, B. (2019). Whole genome sequencing of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli isolated from a wastewater treatment plant in China. Frontiers in Microbiology, 10, 1797.
Cited by: 34

Prince Kyere Dwaah | Public Health | Best Epidemiological Research Award

Mr. Prince Kyere Dwaah | Public Health | Best Epidemiological Research Award

Assistant Veterinary Technologist | Akenten Appiah Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development | Ghana

Mr. Prince Kyere Dwaah is an emerging public health researcher and MPhil student at the Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development (AAMUSTED), Ghana. With a background bridging public, animal, and community health, his work demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing zoonotic disease control and health education in underserved populations. His research contributions span clinical case documentation, community-based intervention studies, and immunological insights into host-pathogen interactions. Notably, his case report on a Suspected Outbreak of Sheep Pox in Techiman, Ghana underscores his engagement in veterinary epidemiology and rapid field response, while his study on The Role of Community-based Rabies Education in Promoting Preventive Health Behaviors highlights his focus on integrating health literacy into public health strategy. Through such works, Dwaah has fostered interdisciplinary collaborations across veterinary and public health sectors, contributing to the understanding of disease prevention and behavioral change communication. His interest in parasitic immunology, as reflected in his work on host defense mechanisms against worm infections, reveals his scientific curiosity and broader concern for global infectious disease challenges. With a growing body of publications in peer-reviewed journals and citations reflecting his emerging influence, he aspires to strengthen disease surveillance systems, improve health awareness, and promote sustainable health practices in sub-Saharan Africa. His scholarly endeavors embody the intersection of research, education, and community engagement, aligning with global goals for equitable and preventive healthcare.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Dwaah, P. K., Awua-Boateng, N. Y. A., Osei-Tutu, A., Akwei, M., & others. (2025). Suspected outbreak of sheep pox in Techiman, Ghana: A case report. Clinical Images and Medical Case Reports, 2(1), 1–3.

2. Dwaah, P. K., Ahmed, M., Amissah, P., Oppong, F. S., Lumor, P., Edze, P., & Sayibu, I. (2024). The role of community-based rabies education in promoting preventive health behaviors in Techiman: A case study on rabies sensitization. Journal of Health Education Research & Development, 12(5).

3. Dwaah, P. K., & Oppong, F. S. (n.d.). Unveiling host defense networks: Worm resistance mechanisms and mechanisms by which hosts resist worm infections

Through his research on zoonotic diseases and community-based health education, Dwaah Prince Kyere advances public health awareness and preventive strategies in Ghana. His work bridges veterinary science and human health, fostering resilient communities and contributing to global One Health initiatives.

Josiah Orji | Infectious Diseases | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Josiah Orji | Infectious Diseases | Best Researcher Award

Student | Federal University of Technology | Nigeria                         

Mr. Josiah Orji is an applied mathematician specializing in differential equations, mathematical modeling, and numerical simulation, with a focus on biological and medical applications. He excels in translating complex biological processes into mathematical frameworks, conducting analytical and computational analyses, and preparing findings for publication. Currently pursuing an M.Tech. in Applied Mathematics (Distinction) at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, his dissertation explores the modeling and optimal control of malaria transmission dynamics with the impact of an effective vaccine. He holds a B.Tech. in Industrial Mathematics (First Class Honors) from the same university. His research has been published in peer-reviewed journals, emphasizing malaria and schistosomiasis modeling, and he possesses strong programming skills in MATLAB, Maple, and Python. A PTDF scholar and recipient of multiple academic awards, including the Prof. Reuben Olufenwa Ayeni Award and a NAMCUS Bronze Medal, Josiah has teaching experience at both pre-degree and secondary levels and has served in leadership roles such as President of the Watchman Catholic Charismatic Campus Fellowship. His research interests include mathematical biology, optimal control theory, computational mathematics, and data-driven approaches to disease modeling. He is proficient in LaTeX and web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript), a member of professional bodies such as Black in AI and ResearchGate, and remains committed to advancing interdisciplinary research in mathematics, data science, and biomedical systems while mentoring future scientists through teaching, tutoring, and community engagement.

Featured Publications

1. Orji, J. C., Yusuf, T. T., Afolabi, A. S., & Dawodu, K. A. (2025). Integrated malaria control: Impacts of vaccination and combined interventions on disease dynamics. Modeling Earth Systems and Environment, 11(6), 1–23

2. Chukwuebuka, O. J., Miswanto, M., & Sunday, A. A. (n.d.). Optimal control problems constrained by non-linear ordinary differential equations.

 

Lianfen Qian | Pandemic Preparedness | Best Researcher Award

United States

Prof. Lianfen Qian | Pandemic Preparedness | Best Researcher Award

Professor | The University of Arizona | United States

Dr. Lianfen Qian is a distinguished biostatistician and Professor of Practice at the University of Arizona, with extensive expertise in developing and applying statistical methodologies to biomedical, environmental, and genomic research. She earned her B.S. and M.S. in Mathematics and Statistics from Zhejiang University, China, and her Ph.D. in Statistics from Michigan State University. Dr. Qian’s research focuses on survival analysis, longitudinal data modeling, semi-competing risks, and structural change detection. Her work has been widely published in leading journals such as Biometrika, Computational Statistics & Data Analysis, and Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology. A seasoned educator and mentor, she has guided numerous Ph.D. and M.S. students, with one of her mentees earning first place in the 2015 ASA/CAUSE Undergraduate Research Project Competition. She has also served in leadership roles for the American Statistical Association’s South Florida Chapter and contributed as an NSF panelist. Dr. Qian’s career includes academic appointments at Florida Atlantic University and Lynn University, along with her leadership of Mathematics and Data Science, LLC. Her numerous honors include the ASA Award for Outstanding Chapter Service, NSF travel and research awards, and recognition in Who’s Who in America. She has collaborated on research projects funded by the NSF, NCI, and DoD, and continues to contribute to advancing data-driven research and interdisciplinary science. (Document: Lianfen Qian,

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Heilmayer, O., Digialleonardo, J., Qian, L., & Roesijadi, G. (2008). Stress tolerance of a subtropical Crassostrea virginica population to the combined effects of temperature and salinity. Estuarine, Coastal and Shelf Science, 79(1), 179–185. Cited by 100.

2. Wang, S., Qian, L., & Carroll, R. J. (2010). Generalized empirical likelihood methods for analyzing longitudinal data. Biometrika, 97(1), 79–93. Cited by 78.

3. Koul, H. L., Qian, L., & Surgailis, D. (2003). Asymptotics of M-estimators in two-phase linear regression models. Stochastic Processes and Their Applications, 103(1), 123–154. Cited by 72.

4. Gan, W., Bragg, F., Walters, R. G., Millwood, I. Y., Lin, K., Chen, Y., Guo, Y., … (2019). Genetic predisposition to type 2 diabetes and risk of subclinical atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases among 160,000 Chinese adults. Diabetes, 68(11), 2155–2164. Cited by 71.

5. Xu, Y., Chen, B., Qian, W., & Li, H. (2013). Properties of pure n-butylammonium nitrate ionic liquid and its binary mixtures with alcohols at T = 293.15 to 313.15 K. The Journal of Chemical Thermodynamics, 58, 449–459. Cited by 70.

Amos Kipkorir Langat | Infectious Disease | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Amos Kipkorir Langat | Infectious Disease | Best Researcher Award 

Senior Research Fellow | Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Techno | Kenya

Dr. Amos Kipkorir Langat, Ph.D., is a highly accomplished statistician, academic, and economist with expertise in Bayesian analysis, machine learning, spatial statistics, and public health modeling. He earned his Ph.D. in Mathematics (Statistics) from the Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology and Innovation, his MSc. in Applied Statistics from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), and his BSc. in Economics and Mathematics from Kabarak University. Currently, he serves as a Lecturer at JKUAT and Senior Economist at the County Government of Bomet, with previous teaching roles at Maasai Mara and Kabarak Universities. His research spans statistical modeling of infectious diseases, HIV risk factors, maternal health, survival and time series analysis, and measurement error models. He has supervised MSc. and Ph.D. students across Africa, authored over 30 peer-reviewed publications, and contributed to journals such as Scientific African, Asian Journal of Probability and Statistics, and Annals of Medicine & Surgery. Dr. Langat has secured prestigious awards including the AU Ph.D. Scholarship and SICSS research funding, and he actively contributes as a reviewer and conference organizer. His technical expertise includes proficiency in R, Python, STATA, SAS, SPSS, WinBUGS/OpenBUGS, and advanced econometric tools. A member of the Royal Statistical Society, ISCB, IBS, and the Kenya National Statistical Society, he also demonstrates a strong commitment to community service through educational leadership roles. Dr. Langat exemplifies a dedicated scholar, mentor, and researcher advancing applied statistics in public health and beyond

Profile: Google Scholar | Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

1. Langat, A., Orwa, G., & Koima, J. (2017). Cancer cases in Kenya; forecasting incidents using Box & Jenkins ARIMA model. Biomedical Statistics and Informatics, 2(2), 37–48. Cited by: 21

2. Benki-Nugent, S. F., Martopullo, I., Laboso, T., Tamasha, N., Wamalwa, D. C., … [and others]. (2019). High plasma soluble CD163 during infancy is a marker for neurocognitive outcomes in early-treated HIV-infected children. JAIDS Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes, 81(1), 102–109. Cited by: 14

3. Mutinda, J. K., & Langat, A. K. (2024). Stock price prediction using combined GARCH-AI models. Scientific African, 26, e02374. Cited by: 10

4. Mutinda, J. K., & Langat, A. K. (2024). Modeling the impact of air pollution and meteorological variables on COVID-19 transmission in Western Cape, South Africa. International Journal of Mathematics and Mathematical Sciences, 2024(1), 1591016. Cited by: 5

5. Mutinda, J. K., & Langat, A. K. (2024). Capital asset pricing model: A renewed application on S&P 500 index. Asian Journal of Economics, Business and Accounting, 24(6), 226–239. Cited by: 4

Timothy Waje | Epidemiology of viral diseases | Best Academic Researcher Award

Mr. Timothy Waje | Epidemiology of viral diseases | Best Academic Researcher Award 

Ph.D.Researcher at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi ,Nigeria

Timothy Waje is a dedicated Nigerian professional with a strong commitment to health education, disease control, and research. He blends leadership, strategic planning, and organizational skills in both academic and field environments. Known for his work in neglected tropical diseases, his career spans public health, microbiology, and institutional leadership. Timothy has excelled in managing complex projects under pressure, fostering collaborations, and achieving measurable results in challenging environments across northern Nigeria. His multidisciplinary approach combines scientific research, policy engagement, and grassroots mobilization. With a natural ability to train and lead, he continuously drives health improvements through capacity-building initiatives and innovative solutions. His familiarity with Nigeria’s diverse regional contexts enhances his effectiveness in community engagement and program implementation. In every role, Timothy demonstrates integrity, dedication, and a passion for public service, making him an influential figure in the health and research sectors.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Timothy Waje has pursued a progressive academic path rooted in microbiology and public health. His foundational studies equipped him with deep knowledge in applied microbiology, research methodology, and epidemiology. Through advanced degrees, he developed expertise in medical microbiology and expanded his understanding of infectious disease control, biostatistics, and public health systems. His academic journey is marked by continuous learning and critical thinking, supported by hands-on training in laboratory sciences and data analysis. Waje’s education reflects a clear alignment with his professional focus, as he explored both theoretical and practical aspects of disease transmission, diagnostics, and community-based health strategies. He has also acquired strong competencies in research design, data interpretation, and scientific communication. These qualifications have not only enhanced his academic credentials but also strengthened his leadership in public health interventions, particularly in northern Nigeria. His commitment to education continues to shape his impact as a trainer, researcher, and mentor in the field.

Experience

Timothy Waje brings a wealth of experience across the fields of public health, microbiology, education, and banking. As a provost, he has overseen administrative and academic functions, trained staff, led institutional governance, and taught core subjects in microbiology and disease control. In public health, he has served as a consultant and field expert on multiple neglected tropical diseases programs, successfully conducting surveys, monitoring treatments, and leading community mobilization. His roles have involved supervising data collection, analyzing survey outcomes, and managing implementation logistics. He has also played critical roles in organizing training sessions, facilitating capacity development, and interacting with government and health agencies. Before transitioning into health leadership, Timothy worked in the banking sector, where he excelled in customer service, compliance, operations, and financial management. Across sectors, his ability to lead, organize, and meet deliverables under pressure has distinguished his career. He adapts easily, solves problems strategically, and mentors others effectively in various roles..

Research Focus

Timothy Waje’s research is grounded in medical microbiology, infectious diseases, and epidemiology, with a special focus on public health concerns in northern Nigeria. His work addresses key health challenges such as cytomegalovirus, lymphatic filariasis, hepatitis viruses, malaria, and Campylobacter infections. Through reviews, clinical studies, and laboratory-based investigations, he examines pathogen prevalence, molecular patterns, genetic diversity, and drug resistance. His research combines both quantitative and qualitative methodologies, often informed by real-world public health interventions. Waje contributes to understanding the spread, diagnosis, and control of diseases that affect vulnerable populations. His investigations aim to inform evidence-based decision-making, improve diagnostics, and support targeted interventions in community settings. He is especially interested in diseases with socioeconomic impacts, focusing on prevention, early detection, and sustainable health education. Waje collaborates with academic, governmental, and international organizations, and is committed to sharing knowledge that advances both science and the practical management of infectious diseases.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Occurrence of Cytomegalovirus among Pregnant Antenatal Women within Bauchi Metropolis, Nigeria

Journal: Clinical Epidemiology and Global Health

Summary:
This study investigates the presence and prevalence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Bauchi, Nigeria. The research focuses on understanding the epidemiological patterns and potential health implications of CMV infections during pregnancy. Utilizing serological testing methods, the study evaluates CMV exposure levels in a representative sample of pregnant women. The findings contribute to public health awareness regarding maternal CMV infection and stress the need for routine screening in antenatal care settings to reduce potential risks to maternal and fetal health.

Conclusion

Timothy Waje stands out as a versatile professional with a rare combination of academic rigor, field experience, and organizational leadership. His journey reflects a commitment to service, whether through education, scientific research, or health program implementation. In every role, he promotes teamwork, quality delivery, and continuous learning. Waje’s work contributes meaningfully to disease control, institutional development, and capacity building in underserved areas. His interdisciplinary expertise and regional familiarity position him to address complex health challenges with culturally sensitive and evidence-based strategies. Beyond technical skills, his strong ethical foundation, communication abilities, and leadership qualities inspire those he works with. As he continues to advance in research and academic pursuits, his impact is felt across public health, education, and community engagement landscapes. Timothy Waje exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated scholar, capable administrator, and transformative health advocate who consistently strives for excellence, collaboration, and the betterment of society through knowledge and service.