Gerd Fabian Volk | Cognitive Rehabilitation | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Dr. Gerd Fabian Volk | Cognitive Rehabilitation | Outstanding Scientist Award

apl. Prof. Dr. med. habil. Gerd Fabian Volk (👶1978, Wertheim am Main) is a leading German otolaryngologist 👨‍⚕️, currently serving as Senior Physician and Head of the Facial Nerve Center in Jena 🏥. With a deep commitment to clinical excellence, academic teaching 📚, and innovative research 🧪, he has significantly contributed to the fields of neurolaryngology, facial nerve disorders, and ultrasound diagnostics 🧠🗣️. His work bridges cutting-edge imaging 🖼️ and functional diagnostics for head-neck disorders. Living in Jena with his family 👨‍👩‍👧‍👧, he actively supports patient education through YouTube 📹, coordinates national workshops, and advocates for interdisciplinary collaboration 🤝. Volk is a respected speaker 🎤, faculty member at international dissection courses ✂️🧠, and an initiator of hybrid symposia. He balances leadership with education, translating research into real-world clinical impact 🌍💡.

Profile

Education 🎓

Studied human medicine at Westfälische Wilhelms Universität Münster (1999–2006) 🎓🩺, earning his state exam. In 2007, he completed his doctorate (Dr. med.) with a thesis on axonal regeneration in retinal ganglion cells in primates and rats 🧬🐒🐀. He achieved board certification in ENT (2012) 👂👃🧠 and earned his postdoctoral qualification (habilitation) in 2017 with pioneering research on quantitative imaging of facial muscles 🖼️💪. His venia legendi was granted by Friedrich Schiller University Jena in otorhinolaryngology 📜👨‍🏫. Further qualifications include DEGUM Level II (2018) for ultrasound, clinical trial leadership certification (2009), animal research leadership certification (2002), and interdisciplinary leadership training at UKJ 🏅📊. His broad educational background underpins his medical, scientific, and didactic work, combining clinical care, diagnostics, and teaching for the next generation of ENT specialists 👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️👨‍🏫.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Since 2013, Dr. Volk leads the Facial Nerve Center in Jena and co-founded the Tinnitus Center 👨‍⚕️🔊. He is currently Senior Physician at the ENT Department, University Hospital Jena and member of the steering committee for the Center for Rare Diseases Jena (since 2024) 🧩🧬. He previously held rotational research fellowships in radiology and neurology (2008–2013) and has organized national ENT courses since 2009 🧠🎓. With consistent academic teaching since 2012, he has led cadaver dissection courses, neurolaryngology workshops, and ultrasound diagnostics trainings 🧑‍🏫💻. He is an active contributor to ethics commissions and rare disease networks 👥⚖️. His work merges clinical ENT practice, surgical skill, and educational outreach through digital platforms (e.g., YouTube, www.lemg.org) 🌐📹. A devoted mentor, he organizes monthly PhD symposia and integrates hybrid teaching formats, balancing high-level medical care with forward-thinking academic initiatives 📚🏥🎯.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Recipient of multiple national prizes, including the 1st Poster Prize by the German Society for Ultrasound in Medicine (2019) 🥇📊 for Parkinson-related facial muscle imaging, and the DEGUM Head-Neck Section Award for his habilitation research (2018) 🧠🏅. Awarded competitive IZKF research fellowships in neurology and radiology (2008–2013) 🧬🔬. Recognized leader in rare disease diagnostics and member of Germany’s CRANIO-Net for rare craniofacial disorders (since 2022) 🧩👶. Since 2020, he contributes to the Ethics Commission of the University Hospital Jena ⚖️. He is speaker for ENT indications in the Botulinumtoxin Working Group of the German Society of Neurology (since 2022) 💉🧠. Nominated for professorial posts in Bielefeld, Halle, and Charité Berlin between 2019–2023 🏛️📚. Volk’s sustained excellence across clinical care, diagnostics, research, and education has earned him national recognition and leadership roles in academic ENT medicine 🧠🏥✨.

Research Interests 🔬

Prof. Volk’s research centers on facial nerve diagnostics and therapy 🧠🧑‍⚕️, neurolaryngology, and ultrasound imaging of head-neck structures 🖼️. He specializes in quantitative imaging of facial muscles for conditions like facial paralysis and Parkinson’s disease 🤖🧠. His work combines clinical neurophysiology, MRI analysis, and laryngeal electromyography (LEMG) 📈💬. He also pioneers educational innovations in hybrid learning, simulation-based teaching, and cadaver dissection techniques for ENT and neurology professionals 🧑‍🏫🧪. Through platforms like www.lemg.org and dedicated YouTube channels 📹, he disseminates knowledge on advanced diagnostics such as salivary duct endoscopy, voice disorders, and botulinum toxin use 💉. A strong advocate for interdisciplinary networks and rare disease research, he leads initiatives in patient-centered care, including organizing the “Fazialis-Nerv-Tag” and supporting patient education 🤝❤️. His translational research aims to enhance diagnostic precision and develop novel rehabilitation strategies for complex craniofacial disorders 🧬🔧.

Publications 

  • Electromyography as an Objective Outcome Measure for the Therapeutic Effect of Biofeedback Training to Reduce Post-Paralytic Facial Synkinesis

    Healthcare
    2025-03-04 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3390/healthcare13050550
    CONTRIBUTORS: Isabell Hahnemann; Julia Fron; Jonas Ballmaier; Orlando Guntinas-Lichius; Gerd Fabian Volk

  • Evaluation of the Effects of an Electromyography-Based Bio-Feedback Training of Patients with Post-Paralytic Facial Synkinesis Using Electromyography Amplitudes as Objective Outcome Measure

    2024-12-16 | Preprint
    DOI: 10.20944/preprints202412.1326.v1
    CONTRIBUTORS: Isabell Hahnemann; Julia Fron; Jonas Ballmaier; Orlando Guntinas-Lichius; Gerd Fabian Volk

  • Deceleration of denervated facial muscle atrophy through functional electrical stimulation: a sonographic quantification in patients with facial nerve paralysis

    European Journal of Translational Myology
    2024-11-13 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.4081/ejtm.2024.13162
    CONTRIBUTORS: Gabriel Meincke; Johannes Krauß; Maren Geitner; Anna-Maria Kuttenreich; Dirk Arnold; Jonas Ballmaier; Thomas Lehmann; Winfried Mayr; Orlando Guntinas-Lichius; Gerd Fabian Volk

Mehmet Okur | Working Memory Intervention | Memory Mastery Award

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Dr. Mehmet Okur | Working Memory Intervention | Memory Mastery Award

Dr. Mehmet Okur is a researcher and educator specializing in special education, learning disabilities, and cognitive interventions. He holds bachelor’s degrees in Mathematics and Special Education and a Ph.D. in Special Education. As the founder of the Mega-Cognition Center, he develops innovative tools to support cognitive development, attention, and learning difficulties. His research includes early screening tools for learning disabilities, ADHD interventions, and processing speed assessments. Dr. Okur has contributed significantly to special education, collaborating with experts worldwide to advance cognitive and educational research. His work bridges theory and practice, enhancing learning outcomes for individuals with diverse needs.

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Mehmet Okur holds dual bachelor’s degrees in Mathematics and Special Education, providing a strong foundation in both analytical and educational sciences. He earned his Ph.D. in Special Education, focusing on cognitive development, learning disabilities, and ADHD. His doctoral research contributed to the development of innovative assessment tools for early detection of learning disabilities. His academic journey includes interdisciplinary studies, integrating cognitive neuroscience with educational psychology. He continuously enhances his expertise through professional training and collaborative research, ensuring his contributions to special education remain cutting-edge and impactful.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Mehmet Okur has extensive experience in special education, cognitive research, and intervention program development. As the founder of the Mega-Cognition Center, he designs educational tools for children with learning disabilities and ADHD. His work includes developing the ÖGEBTÖ screening tool, processing speed interventions, and attention assessment tests. He collaborates with institutions and researchers to enhance cognitive and learning strategies. Additionally, he has consulted on educational projects, conducted training workshops, and contributed to national and international research initiatives, making a significant impact on special education and cognitive science.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Mehmet Okur’s research revolves around learning disabilities, ADHD, cognitive interventions, and early screening tools. He has developed innovative assessment methods like ÖGEBTÖ for early detection of learning disabilities and interventions to improve processing speed. His work also focuses on executive function training, attention development, and working memory enhancement. He collaborates with cognitive scientists and educators to refine assessment tools and intervention strategies. His research bridges neuroscience and education, aiming to create effective solutions for children with learning challenges, ultimately enhancing their cognitive and academic performance.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Mehmet Okur has received recognition for his contributions to special education and cognitive research. His development of the ÖGEBTÖ screening tool earned industry and academic acclaim. He has been honored for his work in cognitive interventions, receiving nominations for prestigious awards like the Memory Mastery Award. His contributions to learning disability research, ADHD interventions, and cognitive assessment tools have been acknowledged by professional societies. His dedication to advancing educational methodologies and his commitment to improving cognitive development continue to earn him accolades in the field.

Publications 📚

Jeevitha Gowda R | Cognitive impairment | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Jeevitha Gowda R | Cognitive impairment | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor, Alliance University, United Kingdom

🧠 Dr. Jeevitha Gowda R is a dedicated research scholar specializing in cognitive neuroscience and public health, with a strong focus on dementia prevention. She has expertise in developing cognitive screening tools, conducting neuropsychological assessments, and designing neuroscience-based interventions to enhance brain health. Currently serving as a Guest Faculty and Research Associate, she is passionate about bridging research with real-world applications. With proficiency in EEG, ERP, and data analysis, her work emphasizes cognitive aging, behavioral psychology, and mental well-being. Her research contributions include multiple conference presentations, publications, and cognitive training programs. She has received prestigious recognitions, including Best Paper Awards and research fellowships. Her commitment extends to community mental health programs, where she collaborates with NGOs and research institutions. Through her work, she aims to advance cognitive neuroscience and improve public health outcomes. 📚🔬

Profile

Education 🎓

🎓 Dr. Jeevitha Gowda R holds a Ph.D. in Cognitive Neuroscience and Public Health from Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences, Bengaluru (Thesis Submitted), focusing on developing cognitive tools for early dementia detection in primary healthcare settings. She earned a Master’s in Cognitive Neuroscience from JSS Academy of Higher Education, Mysuru (2018), ranking among the top 3 students, with coursework in neural cognition, psychological assessment, and clinical interventions. Her dissertation explored mental fatigue due to sleep deprivation using EEG and ERP. She completed her Bachelor’s in Life Sciences from JSS College for Women, Mysuru (2016), excelling in biochemistry, microbiology, and environmental psychology. Additionally, she trained at the Defence Institute of Psychological Studies (DRDO) and Narayana Health, Bengaluru, gaining hands-on experience in EEG, neuropsychological assessments, and cognitive therapy. Her interdisciplinary education combines neuroscience, psychology, and public health, preparing her for impactful research and innovation in brain health. 🧠📖

Experience 👨‍🏫

💼 Dr. Jeevitha Gowda R has extensive experience as a Research Associate at the Centre for Integrative Health and Well-Being (2020–Present), where she develops neuropsychological intervention tools and conducts cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) programs. She also serves as a Senior Research Associate at Brighter Minds, focusing on cognitive enhancement and neuroscience-based training programs. As a Guest Lecturer at Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences (2021–Present), she teaches biostatistics, neurophysiology, and psychology. Her past clinical internships at DRDO and Narayana Health provided her with hands-on expertise in EEG, ERP, and neuropsychological assessments. She has conducted research on cognitive impairment, dementia screening, and sleep deprivation’s effects on cognition. Additionally, she has authored 50+ neuroscience articles, presented at international conferences, and collaborated with NGOs for mental health awareness. Her diverse experience integrates academic, clinical, and research-based expertise to advance cognitive neuroscience and public health. 🏥📊

Research Interests 🔬

🔬 Dr. Jeevitha Gowda R’s research bridges cognitive neuroscience, psychology, and public health, focusing on early dementia detection, cognitive aging, and neuropsychological interventions. She specializes in developing culturally relevant cognitive screening tools for primary healthcare, improving accessibility to dementia diagnostics. Her work explores neuropsychological assessments, EEG-based cognitive analysis, and behavioral interventions for enhancing mental well-being. She has conducted studies on sleep deprivation, cognitive impairment, and neurofeedback therapy. She collaborates with institutions like DRDO, Narayana Health, and Brighter Minds to implement neuroscience-driven programs. Her research extends to the psychological well-being of dementia caregivers, neurocognitive training for brain health, and integrating technology into mental health solutions. Through interdisciplinary studies and global research collaborations, she aims to advance early dementia detection methods and improve cognitive health strategies. Her work contributes to policy-making, clinical psychology, and public health initiatives. 🏥📊

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

🏆 Dr. Jeevitha Gowda R has received multiple accolades for her contributions to cognitive neuroscience and public health research. She won the Best Paper Award at the Epidemiology Foundation of India Conference (2023, Goa) for her groundbreaking work on dementia screening. Her research paper on cognitive tool validation earned a Special Mention at the International Dementia Conference (DEMCON-2024, IISC Bangalore). During her master’s, she ranked among the top 3 dissertations at JSS Academy of Higher Education. She was awarded the Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) by Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences (2022–2024) for her Ph.D. research. She has also secured research grants for projects on dementia detection and cognitive enhancement. Recognized for her impactful contributions, she collaborates with prestigious institutions, including DRDO and Narayana Health, to advance neuropsychological research. Her work continues to shape innovations in mental health and aging. 🎖️🧠

Publications 📚

  • Jeevitha Gowda R, Anish Mehta, Krishnamurthy Jayanna. (2025).
    Dementia: A Public Health Challenge in India. South Eastern European
    Journal of Public Health, 29–43. Retrieved from
    hps://www.seejph.com/index.php/seejph/article/view/3295 (Scopus)

  • Jeevitha Gowda R. The Impact of Cultural Beliefs and Stigma on
    Dementia Care and Diagnosis: A Scoping Review, 25 November 2024,
    PREPRINT (Version 1) available at Research Square
    hps://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-5519592/v1
  • Jeevitha Ramesh, Parimala Guruprasad (2024) Factors Affecting the
    Psychological Well-Being of Caregivers of Dementia Patients: A
    Thematic Review. Journal of Neurology Research Reviews & Reports.
    SRC/JNRRR-260
  • Development and Validation of Cognitive Screening Tools for
    Dementia Detection in Primary Care Seings: An Exploratory Pilot
    Study – Under review at International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry.
    (Corresponding Author)
  • Burden of Cognitive Impairment Including Dementia, and Associated
    Risk Factors Among the Rural Population of South Karnataka, India –
    Under review at Journal of Public Health Research. (Corresponding
    Author)
  • Impact of Training Module on Lifestyle and Healthy Behaviours: An
    Exploratory Pilot in India – Under review at Journal Explore.
    (Co-Author)

Nuray Alaca | Motor İmagery | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr. Nuray Alaca | Motor İmagery | Best Researcher Award

 

Profile

Education

She completed her Doctorate in Physiology at Marmara University, Institute of Health Sciences, Turkey, from 2011 to 2015. Prior to that, she earned her Postgraduate degree in Orthopedic Rehabilitation from the same institute between 1999 and 2002. Her academic journey began with an Undergraduate degree in Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation from Istanbul University, School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation, where she studied from 1995 to 1999.

Research 

Her research focuses on physiotherapy and rehabilitation, with a strong academic background in the field. She has been serving as an Associate Professor at Acibadem Mehmet Ali Aydinlar University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, since 2021. Prior to this, she worked as an Assistant Professor from 2016 to 2021 and as a Lecturer from 2011 to 2015 at the same institution.

She has been actively involved in various research projects in physiotherapy and rehabilitation, supervising both postgraduate and doctoral students. Her ongoing research includes a randomized controlled trial on graded motor imagery as an adjunct to physiotherapy in chronic rotator cuff-related pain and an investigation into the sensorimotor representation of body schema in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis compared to healthy individuals. In 2024, she supervised a postgraduate study on the effect of manual lymph drainage in treating breast edema in patients undergoing breast-conserving surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy. Additionally, she is leading a doctoral study examining the effects of tactile stimulation, swimming exercise, or their combination on oxidative stress, inflammation, amyloid beta, neurogenesis, neurotrophic factors, and molecular signaling in an Alzheimer’s model. Her recent research includes a 2023 retrospective study on the effects of tumor type and treatments on lymphedema levels in breast cancer patients undergoing complex decongestive lymphedema therapy. She also supervised a 2021 postgraduate study exploring the effects of swimming exercise, low-level laser, or their combination on degeneration, inflammation, oxidative stress, utrophin protein, and irisin peptide in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (MDX) mice.

Publication

  • Comparison of Pressure Feedback Biofeedback Training with Conventional Lumbar Dynamic Strength Exercises for Chronic Low Back Pain: A Prospective Randomized Trial.

    Alternative therapies in health and medicine
    2024-11-18 | Journal article
    PMID: 39565706
    CONTRIBUTORS: Öztürk Ü; Çörekçi AA; Alaca N; Subaşı F

  • Comparison of static balance and pressure distribution in individuals with unilateral lower limb amputation: The role of barefoot, heel support, and vision.

    Prosthetics and orthotics international
    2024-11-08 | Journal article | Author
    DOI: 10.1097/pxr.0000000000000403
    PMID: 39514704
    CONTRIBUTORS: Tatar Y; Nilüfer Kablan; Nejla Gercek; Nuray Alaca

  • Kinesiophobia, physical activity levels and barriers in breast cancer patients, survivors, and healthy controls: A case-control analysis.

    JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association
    2024-08-01 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.47391/jpma.10558
    PMID: 39160708
    CONTRIBUTORS: Alaca N; Karayazi KT; Arslan DC; Karakus MB; Uras C

  • The immediate effect of thoracolumbar fascia taping on biomechanical properties, low back pain and balance in individuals with transfemoral amputation.

    Journal of back and musculoskeletal rehabilitation
    2024-01 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3233/bmr-230314
    PMID: 38517772
    CONTRIBUTORS: Çalışkan Z; Alaca N; Kablan N

Bailey Bennett | Cognitive Rehabilitation| Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Bailey Bennett | Cognitive Rehabilitation| Best Researcher Award

 

Emporia State University, United States

Profile

 

Education

She completed her Master’s in Art Therapy and Clinical Counseling at Emporia State University from August 2021 to May 2024, graduating with a 4.0 GPA. Her studies included a focus on Mental Health.

She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Pittsburg State University, graduating Summa Cum Laude in December 2020. Her studies emphasized Substance Abuse Services.

Additionally, she completed her Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts at Johnson County Community College from January 2015 to May 2017, also graduating with a 4.0 GPA and as a member of the Honors College.

WORK EXPERIENCE

She has extensive experience in the mental health and art therapy fields. Since January 2021, she has been working at Minds Matter LLC as a Cognitive and Behavioral Therapist, as well as an Art Therapy Consultant. In this role, she provides therapy to individuals with Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), helping them live independently, while also offering consultations and support for integrating art into therapy sessions. She presents on various topics, including research and art therapy, and assists clients in reaching their individual goals. Additionally, she attends weekly supervision sessions to deepen her knowledge of TBI.

From August 2023 to May 2024, she completed an internship at the Emporia State University Counseling Center, where she provided therapy to students, administered assessments, and contributed to treatment plans. She adhered to ethical standards and confidentiality in her work.

She also interned at Corner House Inc. from August 2022 to April 2023, where she provided therapy, participated in client screening and assessment, and assisted in treatment plan development. She provided both individual and group counseling, ensuring compliance with ethical standards and confidentiality.

During her time at Crawford County Mental Health in Pittsburg, KS, from January to December 2020, she completed 400 hours of internship, working at the Addiction Treatment Center and the Women’s Renewal House. She facilitated various client groups and observed counselors in different settings.

Additionally, from August 2019 to May 2020, she served as the Media Manager and Vice-President for Students for Violence Prevention at Pittsburg State University. In this position, she created media content and worked with university staff to educate students on topics such as sexual assault, stalking, domestic violence, and unhealthy relationships. She was awarded the NASPA-BACCHUS Region IV-W Peer Educator Award for her efforts in educational outreach.

Awards

She has received several notable awards throughout her academic and professional career. In 2023, she was honored with the Research Award at the Capital Graduate Research Summit at Emporia State University. She also earned 3rd place at the Research and Creativity 2023 People’s Choice Award. In 2020, she received the NASPA-BACCHUS Region IV-W Peer Educator Award for Excellence for her contributions to peer education on campus. Additionally, she was awarded the Outstanding Undergraduate Scholarship for Pittsburg State University’s Psychology Program in 2020.

Educational Opportunities & Research Experience

She has conducted significant research and contributed to various academic projects. In 2022, she conducted human subjects research to study the effects of art therapy on individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), finding significant results regarding reduced anxiety in this population. Her research was presented at the Capital Graduate Research Summit in Topeka, KS, in 2023, where she was awarded the Research Award for ESU.

From 2019 to 2020, she worked as a Research Assistant for Dr. Warner, focusing on visual attention and conducting human subjects research, which was submitted to the APA National Conference.

Additionally, she served as the Vice-President/Social Media Coordinator for Students for Violence Prevention (SVP) from 2019 to 2020, where she played a key role in organizing and promoting initiatives focused on preventing violence and raising awareness on campus.