John de Figueiredo | Loneliness and Demoralization | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. John de Figueiredo | Loneliness and Demoralization | Best Researcher Award

Yale University School of Medicine | United States

Prof. John de Figueiredo is a highly accomplished psychiatrist, educator, and researcher whose career bridges clinical excellence, academic leadership, and international recognition in psychiatry and public health. He earned his medical degree from the University of Bombay, followed by advanced training in mental health at the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, and completed residency and fellowship training at the Johns Hopkins Hospital and School of Medicine. His academic career at Yale University School of Medicine has spanned decades, progressing from assistant professor to clinical professor, where he has supervised and mentored fellows, residents, medical students, and multidisciplinary teams. His research interests focus on cultural psychiatry, psychopathology, psychosomatic medicine, psychiatric epidemiology, and geriatric psychiatry, contributing significantly to understanding the interaction between culture, mental health, and clinical practice. He is recognized for skills in teaching, supervision, curriculum design, and cross-cultural clinical care, complemented by leadership roles in global psychiatric associations. Prof. de Figueiredo has been honored with numerous national and international awards, including recognition by the American Psychiatric Association, the American Psychopathological Association, and the Royal Society of Medicine, among others. In conclusion, his career reflects a lifelong commitment to advancing psychiatry, medical education, and patient care through scholarship, mentorship, and global collaboration.

Profile: Google scholar

Featured Publications

Natalia N. Kudryavtseva | Neurobiology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Natalia N. Kudryavtseva | Neurobiology | Best Researcher Award

Institute of Cytology and Genetics of SB RAS | Russia

Professor Natalia N. Kudryavtseva is a highly distinguished neuroscientist and leading researcher at the I.P. Pavlov Institute of Physiology RAS in Saint Petersburg and the Institute of Cytology and Genetics SB RAS in Novosibirsk, with extensive academic and research contributions in behavioral pharmacology, neurogenetics, and biological psychiatry. She completed her education at Novosibirsk State University in physiology and advanced to hold key positions as junior, senior, and leading researcher, later becoming head of the Neurogenetics of Social Behaviour Sector and the Neuropathology Modelling Laboratory. Her professional journey includes visiting research at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in the United States, along with teaching as professor of physiology at Novosibirsk State University. Her research interests span behavioral genetics, social biology, psychopharmacology, transcriptomic analysis, and modelling of psychoemotional disorders, particularly through the sensory contact model she developed, widely applied in the study of chronic social conflict and neuropsychiatric mechanisms. She is skilled in neurogenomics, experimental neurobiology, and psychopharmacological correction, with more than one hundred eighty publications and several books. She is an active member of international research societies and has collaborated with institutions across Europe and the USA. Recognized for her pioneering contributions, with a citation index exceeding four thousand and an h-index of thirty-seven, she has received numerous honors for advancing knowledge on the neurobiology of aggression and psychoemotional disorders, making her a truly deserving candidate for international recognition.

Profile: ORCID

Featured Publications

Sarah Leibowitz | Behavioral Neurobiology | Most Cited Article Award

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Dr. Sarah Leibowitz | Behavioral Neurobiology | Most Cited Article Award

The Rockefeller University | United States

Dr. Sarah F. Leibowitz is a Research Associate Professor at The Rockefeller University in the Laboratory of Behavioral Neurobiology. With a career dedicated to uncovering the neural basis of addiction, she focuses on how the brain regulates consumption of substances like alcohol and nicotine, as well as high-fat and high-sugar foods. Her pioneering work explores the transition from casual intake to substance dependence, linking specific brain mechanisms to addictive behaviors. Dr. Leibowitz’s research also highlights how emotional traits—such as impulsivity and anxiety—influence substance use. In recent years, she has expanded her work to investigate how maternal diet and drug exposure during pregnancy affect the brain development and behavior of offspring. Her studies reveal persistent neural and behavioral changes that may increase vulnerability to addiction later in life. Through her research, she aims to identify early indicators of addiction risk and explore preventive strategies for substance abuse disorders.

Profile

ORCID

Education

Dr. Sarah F. Leibowitz earned her Ph.D. in behavioral neurobiology, establishing her foundation in neuroscience and psychobiology. Although specific details of her academic institutions are not publicly disclosed, her academic trajectory clearly reflects rigorous training in neurobiology, endocrinology, and developmental neuroscience. Her education emphasized the interplay between brain structure, behavior, and environmental stimuli—especially as related to addiction and nutrition. Over the course of her doctoral and postdoctoral work, she developed specialized expertise in rodent models, neurochemical techniques, and behavioral neuroscience. Her educational background has equipped her to contribute significantly to the understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying addiction, impulsivity, and maternal influences on brain development. Dr. Leibowitz’s academic formation has not only shaped her robust research career but also positioned her as a mentor and thought leader in the intersection of behavioral neuroscience, addiction research, and developmental psychobiology.

 Experience

Dr. Sarah Leibowitz brings decades of experience in behavioral neuroscience, serving as a Research Associate Professor at The Rockefeller University. In this role, she leads research exploring how neurochemical circuits in the brain influence the consumption of addictive substances and palatable foods. Her experience spans experimental neurobiology, developmental studies, and translational addiction research, using advanced rodent models to simulate human behavioral patterns. She has worked extensively on characterizing the neural pathways that control emotional traits such as impulsivity and anxiety, which predispose individuals to addiction. In addition, Dr. Leibowitz has pioneered investigations into prenatal programming—studying how maternal substance use affects offspring neurodevelopment and behavior. Her career has been marked by interdisciplinary collaborations, significant grant support, and mentoring emerging scientists. Dr. Leibowitz’s extensive lab-based research experience has positioned her at the forefront of studies on addiction vulnerability, making meaningful contributions to both basic neuroscience and potential clinical applications.

Awards and Honors

While specific awards and honors for Dr. Sarah F. Leibowitz are not publicly detailed, her long-standing appointment at The Rockefeller University—a prestigious research institution—attests to her outstanding contributions in behavioral neurobiology. Recognition in the scientific community is reflected through her published research, influential collaborations, and leadership in addiction-related neuroscience. She is frequently cited in peer-reviewed journals, indicating strong academic impact and recognition from fellow researchers. Her studies addressing prenatal influences on addiction vulnerability have garnered widespread attention in developmental neuroscience and public health sectors. In addition to academic merit, Dr. Leibowitz’s role as a mentor and educator suggests acknowledgment of her commitment to training the next generation of scientists. The significance and longevity of her research position imply that she has received competitive research funding and peer-reviewed grants, further recognizing the value of her work in advancing understanding of substance use disorders.

Research Focus

Dr. Leibowitz’s research focuses on the neurobiological mechanisms underlying addiction, particularly the transition from use to dependence on substances like alcohol, nicotine, and palatable foods. Her laboratory investigates how neurochemical pathways in various brain regions drive compulsive consumption and are influenced by traits such as novelty seeking, impulsivity, and anxiety. A major area of her research explores the developmental origins of addiction: how maternal consumption of drugs or high-fat/high-sugar diets during pregnancy alters brain development and long-term behavior in offspring. These studies reveal that such prenatal exposures can “reprogram” the brain, increasing susceptibility to substance use disorders in adolescence and adulthood. Through rodent models, Dr. Leibowitz aims to identify biomarkers and early-life predictors of addiction risk, as well as investigate potential interventions for prevention. Her multidisciplinary approach integrates behavioral neuroscience, endocrinology, and developmental biology, contributing valuable insights into addiction’s origins, progression, and possible prevention strategies.

Publications

Title: Neurological Disorders Induced by Drug Use: Effects of Adolescent and Embryonic Drug Exposure on Behavioral Neurodevelopment
Year: 2024
Citations: 2

Title: Utility of the Zebrafish Model for Studying Neuronal and Behavioral Disturbances Induced by Embryonic Exposure to Alcohol, Nicotine, and Cannabis
Year: 2023
Citations: 8

Title: Role of Chemokine Cxcl12a in Mediating the Stimulatory Effects of Ethanol on Embryonic Development of Subpopulations of Hypocretin/Orexin Neurons and Their Projections
Year: 2023
Citations: 10

Title: Embryonic ethanol exposure induces ectopic Hcrt and MCH neurons outside hypothalamus in rats and zebrafish: Role in ethanol‐induced behavioural disturbances
Year: 2022
Citations: 18

Conclusion

Dr. Sarah F. Leibowitz’s work stands at the intersection of neuroscience, behavior, and developmental biology, providing groundbreaking insights into addiction, prenatal brain development, and preventive strategies for substance use disorders, making her a leading figure in behavioral neurobiology and addiction research.

 

Caroline Cecil Kaufman | Clinical Psychology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Caroline Cecil Kaufman | Clinical Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Caroline C. Kaufman is an Assistant Psychologist at McLean Hospital and Instructor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. She earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Memphis, with a specialization in the psychology of religion and spirituality. Her work lies at the intersection of spirituality, trauma, and mental health, particularly among underserved and marginalized populations. Dr. Kaufman has developed spiritually integrated psychotherapeutic interventions and conducted groundbreaking research on antisemitism, PTSD, and alcohol misuse. She has trained at leading institutions, including Yale School of Medicine, and currently leads multiple funded projects aimed at adapting clinical care to spiritual and religious diversity. Dr. Kaufman is widely recognized for her academic contributions and advocacy for inclusive behavioral health. Her professional mission centers on empowering vulnerable communities through evidence-based, spiritually inclusive mental health research and care. She is also a frequent speaker and active contributor to national and international psychology organizations.

Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Kaufman’s clinical and academic experience spans leading institutions in psychology and psychiatry. She currently serves as Assistant Psychologist at McLean Hospital and Instructor at Harvard Medical School. From 2021 to 2023, she was a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Spirituality and Mental Health Program at McLean. Her internship was at Yale-New Haven Hospital, where she worked in child and adolescent intensive outpatient care and the Yale Gender Program. She has held clinical roles across diverse settings, including Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, Daybreak Treatment Center, and Head Start programs. She also held supervisory roles, including at Yale and the University of Memphis. Dr. Kaufman has been actively engaged in research, professional service, and teaching throughout her career. Her expertise lies in integrating spirituality and trauma-focused therapies, and she serves as Principal Investigator on several funded research projects. She also advises diversity and inclusion initiatives across clinical psychology organizations.

🧪 Experience

Dr. Kaufman has received numerous accolades for her academic and clinical contributions. In 2024, she was awarded the Eleanor and Miles Shore Fellowship by McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School. She is a 2022 Livingston Fellow at Harvard Medical School and was selected for the prestigious Yale Program for Medicine, Spirituality, & Religion Fellowship in 2020. That same year, she received the Jewish Community Hero Award. Other honors include the International Research Network’s Early Career Researcher Award (2022), the Graduate Student Talk Award from the Tennessee Psychological Association (2018), and the Sigma Xi Undergraduate Research Award from Williams College (2015). Dr. Kaufman has been consistently recognized for her innovative research in spirituality and mental health, her leadership in DEI initiatives, and her commitment to advancing culturally sensitive clinical care. She also received multiple travel and presentation awards from the APA and other scholarly organizations throughout her academic training.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Kaufman has received numerous accolades for her academic and clinical contributions. In 2024, she was awarded the Eleanor and Miles Shore Fellowship by McLean Hospital and Harvard Medical School. She is a 2022 Livingston Fellow at Harvard Medical School and was selected for the prestigious Yale Program for Medicine, Spirituality, & Religion Fellowship in 2020. That same year, she received the Jewish Community Hero Award. Other honors include the International Research Network’s Early Career Researcher Award (2022), the Graduate Student Talk Award from the Tennessee Psychological Association (2018), and the Sigma Xi Undergraduate Research Award from Williams College (2015). Dr. Kaufman has been consistently recognized for her innovative research in spirituality and mental health, her leadership in DEI initiatives, and her commitment to advancing culturally sensitive clinical care. She also received multiple travel and presentation awards from the APA and other scholarly organizations throughout her academic training.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Kaufman’s research focuses on the integration of spirituality, religiosity, and psychological science, particularly in the treatment of trauma, PTSD, and alcohol misuse. Her scholarship explores how spiritual identity and belief systems influence mental health outcomes, with a strong emphasis on marginalized and high-risk populations such as first responders and Jewish communities facing antisemitism. She leads several research projects, funded by organizations such as the John Templeton Foundation and Harvard Medical School, examining spiritually integrated psychotherapy, resilience among trauma survivors, and inclusion of religious diversity in behavioral health. She also investigates antisemitic prejudice and its psychological effects. Through both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, her work advances clinical science by developing culturally and spiritually sensitive interventions. Dr. Kaufman’s interdisciplinary research informs clinical practices and policy frameworks to promote inclusive, evidence-based care. She also collaborates across academic and community settings to ensure her research has practical, population-level impact.

✅ Conclusion

Publications

  • Mental Health Clinical Pastoral Education—A Specialized CPE Program

    Religions
    2025-07 | Journal article | Author
    DOI: 10.3390/rel16070886
    CONTRIBUTORS: Angelika A. Zollfrank; Caroline Cecil Kaufman; David H. Rosmarin

  • The scale matters: assessing body size with figure rating scales in a diverse sample of young adults

    Eating and Weight Disorders
    2022 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1007/s40519-021-01166-9

  • Integrating Spirituality in Group Psychotherapy with First Responders: Addressing Trauma and Substance Misuse

    Religions
    2022-11 | Journal article | Author
    DOI: 10.3390/rel13121132
    CONTRIBUTORS: Caroline Cecil Kaufman; David Hillel Rosmarin; Hilary Connery

  • Parenting in matched pairs of women of color experiencing intimate partner violence and living with and without HIV

    Journal of Traumatic Stress
    2021 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.1002/jts.22737
    EID: 2-s2.0-85116930252
    Part of ISSN: 15736598 08949867
    CONTRIBUTORS: Thurston, I.B.; Howell, K.H.; Kaufman, C.C.; Mandell, J.E.; Decker, K.M.

Azzeddine Charki | Neuropsychology | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Azzeddine Charki | Neuropsychology | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Azzeddine Charki is a Professor of Cognitive and Biological Psychology at the Faculty of Letters and Human Sciences Aïn Chock, Hassan II University, Casablanca. He holds a Ph.D. in Neuropsychology from Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez. Dr. Charki is an esteemed researcher and active member of the Laboratory for Studies and Research in Cognitive and Human Sciences, focusing on psychology and language. With a strong dedication to cognitive psychology and neuropsychology, he supervises numerous research projects and contributes significantly to academic discourse. He has authored and co-authored several publications in high-impact journals on topics such as executive function, mentalizing, and neurodevelopmental disorders like ASD and ADHD. Fluent in Arabic, French, and English, he integrates pedagogical expertise with rigorous data analysis and project management. Dr. Charki’s commitment to advancing psychological science is matched by his passion for mentoring and fostering academic growth in his field.

Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Azzeddine Charki earned his Ph.D. in Neuropsychology from Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez. His doctoral work laid the foundation for his deep specialization in neuropsychology and cognitive sciences, particularly in executive function and mentalizing. Throughout his academic training, he developed a multidisciplinary understanding of brain-behavior relationships, integrating biological, cognitive, and social perspectives. His education emphasized both theoretical models and practical application in clinical and developmental contexts. Dr. Charki also received training in pedagogy, research methodology, and advanced data analysis techniques, which he continues to use in his academic career. His strong educational background has enabled him to contribute to Moroccan and international scholarship in cognitive and neuropsychology. His academic formation has also nurtured a strong inclination toward interdisciplinary research and collaborative knowledge production, particularly in the study of social cognition and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism and ADHD.

🧪 Experience

Dr. Azzeddine Charki began his academic career as a Temporary Professor at Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez (2020–2022), where he taught and conducted research in cognitive and neuropsychology. Since November 2023, he has been serving as Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Letters and Human Sciences Aïn Chock, Hassan II University, Casablanca. Over the years, he has supervised numerous undergraduate and postgraduate research projects and participated in collaborative initiatives within the university’s Laboratory for Studies and Research in Cognitive and Human Sciences. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Dr. Charki has contributed extensively to the academic literature with a focus on executive functioning, theory of mind, and developmental psychopathology. His professional experience also includes project management, scientific writing, and dissemination of research findings. His bilingual and multicultural skills have allowed him to reach a wide range of students and researchers across Arabic, Francophone, and Anglophone academic contexts.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Dr. Azzeddine Charki has earned recognition primarily through his impactful research publications and academic service in Morocco’s leading institutions. Although specific named awards were not detailed, his repeated inclusion in peer-reviewed international and regional journals such as Applied Neuropsychology: Child, Neuropsychiatry and Neuropsychology, and the Arab Journal of Psychology signifies scholarly acknowledgment of his research excellence. His work on autism spectrum disorder, theory of mind, and executive functions reflects high intellectual merit and contributes meaningfully to both theoretical understanding and practical applications in neuropsychology. Dr. Charki’s mentorship of numerous student research projects and his active engagement in cross-disciplinary studies also underscore his standing as a respected academic. Being a core member of a cognitive science laboratory at Hassan II University further testifies to his leadership in scientific inquiry and academic collaboration. These contributions collectively demonstrate his respected status and growing impact in the field of cognitive psychology and neurodevelopmental research.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Charki’s research centers on cognitive psychology and neuropsychology, with particular interest in executive functions, social cognition, and neurodevelopmental disorders. He investigates mentalizing processes, especially the cognitive and affective domains of theory of mind in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). His work explores both typical and atypical development, aiming to identify neural and behavioral mechanisms underlying disorders such as ASD and ADHD. He also delves into comparative frameworks across schizophrenia spectrum disorders, highlighting the neurobiological overlap in social cognition deficits. Dr. Charki integrates developmental psychology, neurobiology, and psychometric assessments to explore how children’s cognitive representations are structured and evolve in different socio-cultural contexts. His scholarly publications demonstrate a strong methodological foundation and innovative contributions to understanding how executive functions interact with social behavior. Furthermore, he actively examines Moroccan sociocultural representations in educational contexts, blending qualitative and quantitative approaches to enrich cognitive psychological theory and practice.

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Azzeddine Charki is a dedicated cognitive psychologist whose interdisciplinary research on executive function, mentalizing, and neurodevelopmental disorders enhances both scientific understanding and educational practice through a culturally grounded and evidence-based approach.

Publications

  • Charki, A., Zarbouch, B., Bouchala, C., & Meklaui, F., Z . (2024). Neuronal and developmental dimensions of mentalizing and it’s connection with executive functions. Arab Journal of Psychology. https://doi.org/10.57642/AJOPSY911

 

  • Charki, A., Meklaoui, F. Z., Charki, A., & Ettouzani, A. (2025). Examining the association between variation of ASD and cognitive and affective domains of mentalizing in verbal children with ASD. Applied Neuropsychology: Child, 1–11. https://doi.org/10.1080/21622965.2025.2504502

 

 

 

 

 

 

Marianne Rizk-Hildbrand | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Marianne Rizk-Hildbrand | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

She is completing her PhD at KJPP Zürich, focusing on youth suicide prevention through the AdoASSIP project. Her professional experience spans various roles within KJPP Zürich, including emergency care, inpatient therapy, diagnostics, family counseling, and research. Earlier, she worked in diverse sectors such as aviation, hospitality, and legal assistance, demonstrating adaptability and strong interpersonal skills. Alongside her clinical and research commitments, she has been active in volunteer work, serving as a translator for refugee projects. Her multilingual proficiency in German, English, French, and Egyptian Arabic allows her to connect effectively with diverse populations. She is recognized as an AdoASSIP instructor, supervisor, and therapist, reflecting her advanced therapeutic competencies. She embodies a rare combination of academic rigor, clinical expertise, and cross-cultural sensitivity, preparing her for a leading role in adolescent mental health care and research.

Profile

🎓 Education

Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (2014-2018) from the University of Zürich, supplemented by an exchange semester at Humboldt University, Berlin (2019). She then pursued a Master of Science in Psychology at the University of Zürich (2018-2021), successfully completed in HS2020. Additionally, she earned multiple certifications in AdoASSIP therapy, including supervisor and instructor credentials between 2022 and 2024. In December 2024, she attained the title of federally recognized psychotherapist (IPKJ). Currently, she is finalizing her PhD (expected 2025), focusing on youth suicidality. Her earlier studies include the Gymnasium at Kantonsschule Hottingen (2006–2010), Bachelor of Law studies (incomplete, 2011–2014), and primary education in Opfikon. This strong educational background provides her with a solid foundation in both psychological theory and clinical practice, which she continuously enriches with ongoing training and research involvement, particularly in adolescent mental health, suicidality, and peer influence dynamics.

🧪 Experience

Her clinical experience is extensive, primarily at KJPP Zürich since 2020. As a doctoral student (2021-2024) and psychologist on youth wards (2023-2024), she conducted diagnostics, therapy, psychodiagnostic testing, family consultations, and managed clinical documentation. She contributed significantly to research, including master’s student supervision and publishing scholarly articles. Earlier roles include psychologist at the emergency centre KANT (2021-2023), where she handled acute psychiatric assessments and crisis interventions. She previously held positions in other sectors such as aviation (Swissport), hospitality (Migros Fitnesspark), legal assistance (Wenger Plattner), and customer service (Jelmoli), which enriched her communication and organizational skills. Additionally, she volunteered as a translator for refugees, showcasing her humanitarian commitment. Her interdisciplinary and multicultural experience enables her to work effectively with diverse patient populations, while her research roles highlight her commitment to advancing evidence-based interventions for youth at risk of suicide.

🏅 Awards and Honors

While no formal awards are explicitly mentioned, her series of professional certifications reflect significant achievements in her field. She became a certified AdoASSIP therapist (2022), supervisor (2023), and instructor (2024), underlining her deep specialization in evidence-based suicide prevention methods for adolescents. Her admission to the federally recognized psychotherapy program (IPKJ) and successful completion in December 2024 further demonstrate her recognized competence in clinical psychotherapy. The selection to pursue a PhD focused on adolescent suicidality at KJPP Zürich itself indicates academic merit and research potential. In addition, her consistent involvement in both clinical practice and cutting-edge research within one of Switzerland’s leading psychiatric institutions highlights her professional excellence. Her voluntary contributions to refugee support services reflect an ongoing commitment to social responsibility and community engagement, qualities often acknowledged and respected in healthcare professionals and researchers alike.

🔬 Research Focus

Her research centers on adolescent suicidality, particularly within the AdoASSIP program, a specialized intervention for youth following suicide attempts. Her doctoral dissertation (to be defended in September 2025) investigates complex factors such as body shaming, violence, self-care, and the social contagion of suicidality among peers. This work contributes to a nuanced understanding of the psychosocial dynamics leading to youth suicide attempts. She is deeply involved in intervention research, combining clinical practice with empirical investigation, which allows her to test, refine, and implement effective therapeutic strategies. Her work also involves supervising master’s theses, publishing scientific papers, and contributing to ethical and methodological standards within clinical research. By integrating her practical experience with academic inquiry, she addresses pressing public health concerns and advances therapeutic techniques aimed at reducing youth suicidality. Her research holds significant potential to inform policy, clinical practice, and future studies in adolescent mental health.

✅ Conclusion

Through a combination of advanced clinical training, focused research on adolescent suicidality, and diverse professional experiences, she emerges as a highly competent psychologist and researcher poised to make impactful contributions to youth mental health care, suicide prevention, and evidence-based therapeutic interventions within multicultural contexts.

Publications

  • The Body as a Battleground: A Qualitative Study of the Impact of Violence, Body Shaming, and Self-Harm in Adolescents with a History of Suicide Attempts

    International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
    2025-05-30 | Journal article
    DOI: 10.3390/ijerph22060859
    CONTRIBUTORS: Marianne Rizk-Hildbrand; Tara Semple; Martina Preisig; Isabelle Haeberling; Lukasz Smigielski; Dagmar Pauli; Susanne Walitza; Birgit Kleim; Gregor E. Berger

Fahri SEZER | Guidance and Psychological Counseling | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Fahri SEZER | Guidance and Psychological Counseling | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Fahri Sezer is a distinguished academic and researcher at Balıkesir University Necatibey Faculty of Education 🇹🇷, specializing in psychological counseling, music therapy 🎵, career guidance 🧭, developmental and educational psychology 🧠📚; his work bridges theory and practice, emphasizing student well-being 💪, self-esteem 🌱, coping strategies 🧩, and resilience; he is known for mentoring young scholars 🧑‍🏫 and leading interdisciplinary mental health research 🤝, with a strong publication record in both national and international platforms 🏅📖.

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Fahri Sezer holds advanced degrees in psychological counseling and developmental psychology 🎓🧠; his educational foundation includes robust training in educational sciences, guidance, and counseling 💡📚, providing him the expertise to design psycho-pedagogical models for enhancing emotional well-being and cognitive growth in diverse populations 🌍; his academic journey is marked by scholarly excellence, reflective inquiry, and continuous contribution to mental health education and teacher training programs 🎯🧑‍🏫.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Fahri Sezer serves as an Associate Professor at Balıkesir University’s Department of Guidance and Psychological Counseling 🏛️; he has led and collaborated on numerous research projects exploring student well-being, family dynamics, and teacher competencies 🧠👨‍🏫; his career highlights include national-level research on social skills, divorce effects, conflict resolution, and child psychology 💔➡️❤️, along with authoring educational materials for classroom management, counseling, and developmental psychology 📘✍️; he also provides academic mentoring and scientific editing 🧾🔬.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Fahri Sezer has earned wide recognition for his contributions to educational psychology 🧠🎖️; his research on self-esteem, life satisfaction, and student resilience has been featured in peer-reviewed journals and global conferences 🌐📢; his book chapters and co-authored volumes demonstrate academic leadership 📘👑; Sezer is admired for his impactful national projects addressing teacher training, family therapy, and psychosocial support frameworks 🧑‍🏫💡; his role as editor, author, and mentor enriches Turkey’s academic landscape 🇹🇷💫.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Fahri Sezer’s research revolves around psychological counseling 🧠💬, music therapy 🎵🧠, career guidance 🧭, educational resilience, developmental psychology 👶➡️🧓, social skill interventions 🤝, and student mental health 💖; he investigates how attitudes, coping mechanisms, and counseling practices affect life satisfaction and emotional growth 🌈📈; his focus also includes designing educational materials, studying teacher awareness, and exploring psychosocial dimensions of divorce and child development 🧸⚖️; blending research with community service and academic collaboration 🤗🔍.

Publications 

Xiuwei Zhang | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

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 Dr. Xiuwei Zhang | Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Xiuwei Zhang, PhD, is a researcher at Hefei University of Technology, specializing in traffic behavior and psychology. She holds a doctoral degree from Hefei University of Technology, where her work focuses on improving traffic safety through behavioral psychology methods. Zhang’s research addresses critical issues such as driver behavioral changes and children’s perception of street crossing hazards. She is deeply involved in advancing traffic safety by understanding how people interact with traffic environments, with an emphasis on psychological cognition. Zhang has also contributed significantly to the field through several published papers and patents, aiming to enhance both driver and pedestrian safety. With an established academic career and passion for traffic psychology, Zhang aims to provide actionable solutions to improve road safety globally.

Profile

Education 🎓

Xiuwei Zhang completed her undergraduate studies at Qingdao University of Science and Technology. She pursued her master’s and doctoral degrees at Hefei University of Technology, where she focused on traffic behavior and psychology. During her time at Hefei, Zhang developed a deep understanding of how psychological factors influence road safety, particularly in the context of driver behavior and children’s traffic hazard perception. Her academic training has allowed her to integrate cognitive psychology with transportation safety, paving the way for innovative solutions to reduce traffic-related accidents. Zhang’s educational background in this interdisciplinary field has made her a strong proponent of using behavioral psychology to improve urban traffic environments, with her research significantly contributing to traffic safety science.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Xiuwei Zhang has experience conducting impactful research on traffic psychology at Hefei University of Technology, where she has worked on driver behavior, risk perception, and children’s safety while crossing streets. She contributed to multiple key projects, such as the optimization of urban road intersections using intelligent detection and the evolution of driver’s risk perception in co-driving vehicles. Zhang participated in developing local and national standards, such as the “Evaluation Standard for Driver Takeover Ability of Autonomous Vehicles.” Her patents include solutions for assessing and preventing conflicts between human-vehicle interactions in signal intersections. Additionally, Zhang’s academic role extends to reviewing papers for Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behavior. She is an active participant in cutting-edge research projects, such as the National Natural Science Foundation of China and Anhui Province’s housing and urban development projects, focusing on making roads safer through innovative traffic designs and behavioral analysis.

Research Interests 🔬

Xiuwei Zhang’s research focuses on traffic behavior and psychology, with particular attention to driver behavior, children’s traffic safety, and cognitive biases in road environments. Her work aims to enhance the perception of road hazards, particularly among children, and to improve road safety through behavioral psychology techniques. One of her significant contributions is the study of children’s perception of street-crossing risks under visually occluded conditions, providing valuable insights into how environmental factors impact traffic behavior. Zhang’s research on driver behavior changes, particularly in co-driving scenarios with automated vehicles, seeks to develop better risk perception strategies to improve safety on the roads. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates traffic safety with cognitive science, making her work influential in both the practical and theoretical aspects of traffic safety. Zhang’s innovations also extend to the design of intelligent traffic systems and road intersections, contributing to the future of urban road safety in smart cities.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Xiuwei Zhang has received several prestigious awards and honors during her academic career, including the “Outstanding Graduate of the School Class of 2024” and multiple scholarships, such as the School Second Class Scholarship for the 2022-2023 academic year. Her excellence as a volunteer was recognized when she was named the “Outstanding Red Cross Volunteer” of Qingdao West Coast New District in 2018. Zhang’s consistent academic achievements are highlighted by her scholarships across multiple years and her significant contributions as a member of the Auto Traffic College Institute Graduate Student Association. These accolades reflect her dedication to research, teaching, and community service. Zhang’s awards demonstrate her potential as a leader in traffic safety research and behavioral psychology, highlighting her academic excellence and contributions to improving road safety.

Publications 📚

Aynur Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez | Neurodevelopmental Disorders | Best Researcher Award

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Prof Dr. Aynur Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez | Neurodevelopmental Disorders | Best Researcher Award

Asst. Prof. Aynur Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez is a neuroscientist at İstanbul Nişantaşı University, specializing in neurodegenerative diseases, neuroprotection, and the gut-brain axis. She completed her Ph.D. in Neuroscience at Istanbul University in 2013 and has been a faculty member since 2014. Her research spans Alzheimer’s, autism, and Parkinson’s disease, focusing on stem cell therapies and functional foods for cognitive enhancement. She has led TÜSEB-approved projects and holds patents on bioactive functional foods. Aynur teaches Neurology, Cognitive Neurophysiology, and Industrial Biotechnology. She actively contributes to cutting-edge innovations, particularly in prebiotic-microbiota interactions.

Profile

Education 🎓

Aynur Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez earned her Ph.D. in Neuroscience from Istanbul University in 2013. Her academic journey emphasized neurobiology, neurodegenerative disease mechanisms, and innovative therapeutic strategies. Her doctoral research focused on neuroprotective compounds in Alzheimer’s disease. Before her Ph.D., she pursued studies in molecular biology and biotechnology, refining her expertise in cellular neuroscience. Throughout her education, she collaborated on interdisciplinary projects, integrating neurophysiology with pharmacological advancements. Her postdoctoral research extended into translational neuroscience, bridging laboratory findings with clinical applications. Aynur’s academic foundation laid the groundwork for her extensive research on cognitive function, stem cell therapy, and the gut-brain axis.

Experience 👨‍🏫

With over a decade of experience, Aynur Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez has been an Assistant Professor at İstanbul Nişantaşı University since 2014. She has led multiple national and international neuroscience projects, including TÜSEB-approved research on Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Aynur has played a pivotal role in developing functional foods aimed at cognitive enhancement and has secured patents for novel bioactive compounds. She actively collaborates with industry and academia, integrating neuroscience with biotechnology. Her teaching portfolio includes Neurology, Cognitive Neurophysiology, and Industrial Biotechnology. She has also mentored numerous graduate students in neuropharmacology and neurodegenerative research.

Research Interests 🔬

Aynur Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez’s research focuses on neurodegenerative diseases, neuroprotection, and the gut-brain axis. She explores innovative therapies for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and autism, with a strong emphasis on stem cell applications. Her work investigates the neuroprotective potential of bioactive compounds and functional foods, aiming to enhance cognitive function. She has pioneered research on the microbiota-brain relationship, particularly the role of prebiotics in neurodegeneration. Aynur’s projects also include SNP-based qPCR diagnostic tools for Alzheimer’s risk assessment. Through interdisciplinary collaborations, she integrates neuroscience with biotechnology, advancing the understanding of cognitive disorders and potential therapeutic interventions.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Aynur Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez has received multiple awards for her contributions to neuroscience, including national research grants and innovation awards for her work on functional foods for neuroprotection. She was honored by TÜSEB for her groundbreaking research in stem cell therapy for Parkinson’s disease. Her patented functional chocolate enriched with bioactive compounds received recognition for its cognitive benefits. Aynur has also been awarded project grants from TÜBİTAK for her research on neurodegeneration. She has been invited as a keynote speaker at international neuroscience conferences and has been recognized for her contributions to cognitive science.

Publications 📚

  • Attila Altunel, Aynur Muduroglu-Kirmizibekmez, Alparslan Onder, Ozlem Altunel, Ali
    Sever, Ihsan Kara, Efficacy of ACTH therapy in children with Landau-Kleffner Syndrome
    and Autism Spectrum Disorder: A retrospective analysis, Epilepsy & Behavior,Vol
    165,2025,110308, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.yebeh.2025.11030
  • Muduroglu-Kirmizibekmez A, Cati C, Onder A, Aydin S, Kara I. Investigation of the acute
    impact of rosemary consumption on brain activity in healthy volunteers. Nutr
    Neurosci. 2024 Jul 6:1-12. doi: 10.1080/1028415X.2024.2370729. Epub ahead of print.
    PMID: 38970803.
  • Biliz Y, Hasdemir B, Başpınar Küçük H, Zaim M, Şentürk AM, Müdüroğlu Kırmızıbekmez
    A, Kara İ. Novel N-Acyl Hydrazone Compounds as Promising Anticancer Agents:
    Synthesis and Molecular Docking Studies. ACS Omega. 2023 May 20;8(22):20073-
    20084. doi: 10.1021/acsomega.3c02361. PMID: 37305237; PMCID: PMC10249086.
  • Aydin S, Erözden AA, Tavşanlı N, Müdüroğlu A, Çalışkan M, Kara İ. Anthocyanin
    Addition to Kefir: Metagenomic Analysis of Microbial Community Structure. Curr
    Microbiol. 2022 Sep 20;79(11):327. doi: 10.1007/s00284-022-03017-x. PMID:
    36125585
  • Altunel Atilla, Müdüroğlu Kirmizibekmez Aynur, Altunel Emine Özlem (2022).
    Hypsarrhythmia Paroxysm Intensities that Initiate and Render Physical & Mental
    Retardation Irreversible in West Syndrome. International Journal of Neuroscience,
    DOI: 10.1080/00207454.2022.2078208 (Publication No: 7685958)

Mojtaba Rahimian Bougar | Clinical Psychology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Cognitive Scientist Awards

Mr. Mojtaba Rahimian Bougar | Clinical Psychology | Best Researcher Award

 

 

Profile

Education

He earned a Bachelor of Arts in General Psychology from Payame Noor University of Abadeh Center in 2014, where he conducted a research project titled Comparison of Early Maladaptive Schemas Among Three Groups of Men Dependent on Opium, Under Treatment, and Non-Dependent Over 15 Years of Age in Shiraz City. In 2023, he completed his Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology at the Islamic Azad University, Kish International Branch. His master’s research focused on The Structural Model of Suicidal Tendency Prediction Based on Psychological Needs, Mental Pain, and Object Relations with the Moderating Roles of Defense Mechanisms and Ego-Strength.

Work experience

He is currently working as a Clinical Psychologist with an MA in Clinical Psychology. Previously, from 2013 to 2016, he served as an Expert in Charge and Research Consultant at Larestan University of Medical Sciences, Larestan, Iran. From 2019 to 2024, he worked as a Psychologist at the Social Emergency Center under the Welfare General Bureau of Fars Province in Shiraz, Iran. During the same period, he was an active member of various working groups, including the Working Group on Preventing Drug Misuse and Addiction, the Association for the Protection of Child Labourers under the Governorship & Welfare General Bureau, and the Suicide Prevention initiative within the Mental Health Unit of the Health & Care Professional Network in Eqlid City, Iran.

From 2013 to 2016, he worked as an Expert and Consultant at the Vice-Chancellor for Research and Technology at Larestan School of Medical Sciences, Larestan, Iran. From 2019 to 2024, he served as a Psychologist at the Eghlid Social Emergency Center under the Welfare General Bureau of Fars Province in Shiraz, Iran. Since 2019, he has been an active member of the Suicide Management and Prevention Working Group, as well as the Social Damage Prevention Working Group in Eqlid City, Fars Province. In 2023, he took on the role of Social Service Specialist at the Welfare Organization in Fars Province, Eqlid City, where he continues to contribute to social welfare initiatives.

National and international presentations and conferences

Farmani, A., Faramarzi, H., Rahimian Bougar, M., Sadeghi, M., & Aminian, M. (2021). Psychosocial
trauma screening during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. In the 3rd International
Conference on Psychology, Counseling and Education, 11 February 2021, Mashhad, Iran.
Rahimian Bougar, M., Farmani, A., Ahmadi, S., & Rahiminejad, S. (2021). Comparison of Early
Maladaptive Schemas in Opioid Abusers and Healthy Individuals. In the 3rd International Conference
on Psychology, Counseling and Education, 11 February 2021, Mashhad, Iran.
Farmani, A., Farahmand, H., Sadeghi, M., & Rahimian Bougar, M. (2021). Prediction of Marital
Conflict Management Styles on the Basis of the Big Five Factors of Personality with the Mediating Role
of Patience Components among Young Females. In the 9th International Conference of Modern
Research in Psychology,Counseling,and Educational Sciences, 22 July 2021, Tbilisi, Georgia.
Rahimian Bougar, M. (2016). The study of effectiveness of progressive muscle relaxation to reduce
symptoms in patients with migraine headache. The 5th Symposium of World Federation of
Neurosurgical Societies & The 7th International Neurosurgery Congress & The 1st International
Neuroscience Confederation Congress, 17-22 Apr 2016, Tehran, Iran.
Rahimian Bougar, M. (2016). The study of the prevalence of sexual dysfunction and its relationship to
quality of life and mental health of cancer patients. The 5th Symposium of World Federation of
Neurosurgical Societies & The 7th International Neurosurgery Congress & The 1st International
Neuroscience Confederation Congress, 17-22 Apr 2016, Tehran, Iran.
Sekhavati, E., Rahimian Bougar, M., Bostani, S., & Saem, J. (2016). Investigating the Individual and
Effective Protection Factors of Appropriate and Inappropriate Cesarean Section in Pregnant Women
Referred to Larestan Imam Reza Hospital. International Congress on Social Studies on Health For
Students, 21-23 December 2016, Shiraz, Iran.
Sekhavati, E., Rahimian Bougar, M., Bostani, S., & Raeisi, Z. (2016). An Explanation on the Prevalence
of Learning Disorders in Terms of Socioeconomic Factors of Health among the Elementary School
Students in Larestan City during Year 2014. International Congress on Social Studies on Health For
Students, 21-23 December 2016, Shiraz, Iran.
Sekhavati, E., Rahimian Bougar, M., Raeisi, Z., Bostani, S., & Sarafraz, N. (2016). THE PREVALENCE
OF SEXUAL RISK BEHAVIOR AND PROGNOSIS OF HIV INFECTION IN ADOLESCENTS AND
YOUNG ADULTS IN LARESTAN CITY. At the 17th International & Iranian Congress of Microbiology,
23-25 August 2016, Tehran, Iran.
Sekhavati, E., Neydavodi, M., Rahimian Bougar, M., Abedi, K., Mohammadi, Z., Raeisi, Z. (2016).
PREVALENCE OF PEDICULOSIS IN STUDENTS OF LARESTAN CITY IN 2015. At the 17th
International & Iranian Congress of Microbiology, 23-25 August 2016, Tehran, Iran.
Sekhavati, E., Rahimian Bougar, M., Bostani, S., & Alaie Nejad, M. (2016). Investigating the effects of
common atmospheric and air pollutants on cardiovascular diseases and neurological disorders: A
review study: with an emphasis on the pathology of atmospheric elements and air pollution in Iran. The
2nd International Conference on Environmental sciences, 25 & 26 May 2016, Tehran, Iran.

Publication