Camille Blackman | Neurology and Gender-Affirming Care | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Camille Blackman | Neurology and Gender-Affirming Care | Best Researcher Award

Camille Blackman is a dedicated medical student and multidisciplinary researcher with a passion for advancing gender-affirming healthcare and surgical education. Currently pursuing her MD at the University of Illinois College of Medicine, she brings a diverse background in anthropology, emergency medicine, and clinical research. Camille’s clinical experiences range from working as an EMT and physical therapist assistant to serving as a medical assistant in dermatology. Her current research at Johns Hopkins Center for Transgender and Gender Expansive Health centers on surgical outcomes, educational innovation, and health equity. She has published and presented nationally on topics like craniofacial surgery, sexual medicine, and transgender health. Outside of medicine, she is a nationally competitive runner and co-founder of Nameless Track Club. Camille also contributes to mentoring, leadership development, and medical education reform. Fluent in English and French, she exemplifies a well-rounded, compassionate, and forward-thinking physician in training.

Profile

🎓 Education

Camille Blackman’s academic journey reflects her interdisciplinary strength and commitment to health equity. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Cultural Anthropology from Northwestern University (2012–2016), where she was also a Division 1 athlete. To transition into a medical career, she completed a post-baccalaureate pre-medical program at DePaul University (2016–2017). Camille is currently a Doctor of Medicine (MD) candidate at the University of Illinois College of Medicine, expected to graduate in 2026. Her medical education is enhanced by participation in the Surgical Exploration and Discovery (SEAD) program and leadership in multiple mentorship initiatives. Her academic excellence is evidenced by her involvement in high-impact research, her role as an M3 mentor, and her selection for honors like Academic All-Big Tens. Throughout her academic path, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to inclusion, excellence in scholarship, and innovation in clinical care, especially for underserved populations such as the transgender and gender-diverse community.

🧪 Experience

Camille Blackman has built a robust portfolio of healthcare experience over nearly a decade. As a current research trainee at the Johns Hopkins Center for Transgender and Gender Expansive Health, she contributes to cutting-edge projects focused on surgical outcomes and health equity. Prior to that, she worked as a medical assistant at the Illinois Dermatology Institute (2020–2023), a physical therapist assistant at RUSH Rehabilitation (2018–2021), and an EMT at Medical Express Ambulance (2018–2020). Her roles have spanned both emergency and outpatient care, giving her a comprehensive clinical foundation. In addition to her hands-on experience, she’s actively involved in medical education as a mentor and peer leader at UICOM. Camille also volunteers in both clinical and community settings, including Face the Future Foundation and Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital. Her practical and research experience across diverse settings reinforces her trajectory as a future physician-leader in gender-affirming and reconstructive surgery.

🏅 Awards and Honors

Camille Blackman has been recognized for both academic and athletic excellence. She is a recipient of the prestigious Academic All-Big Ten award (2013–2016) and earned the John and Rita Canning and Dinn Brothers Student-Athlete Scholarships while at Northwestern University. In athletics, she is a Tracksmith-sponsored elite runner and has posted competitive times in major races, including a 2:48 marathon and top finishes in the Chicago 13.1 and Shamrock Shuffle. Her early accolades include the Western Massachusetts Athlete of the Year and the Tommy Cochary High School Mile Grant. As a medical student, she was selected for the Surgical Exploration and Discovery (SEAD) program and received a $25,000 pilot grant from the Hopkins Business of Health Initiative as a co-investigator for transgender health systems innovation. Her honors reflect a rare combination of scientific acumen, athletic discipline, and community impact, affirming her multifaceted contributions to medicine and public health.

🔬 Research Focus

Camille Blackman’s research centers on gender-affirming care, surgical education, and health disparities. At the Johns Hopkins Center for Transgender and Gender Expansive Health, she explores clinical outcomes related to chest masculinization and hormone therapy, and contributes to the development of transgender health infrastructure. She has authored and co-authored multiple peer-reviewed publications on subjects such as craniofacial surgery techniques, body mass index implications in gender-affirming surgeries, and innovative educational approaches like clay modeling in anatomy instruction. Camille’s forthcoming book chapters on vaginoplasty and transgender care centers further establish her as an emerging scholar in surgical education and gender health equity. She has presented her work at high-profile conferences, including the Plastic Surgery Research Council and the Sexual Medicine Society of North America. Through her research, Camille aims to enhance inclusivity, clinical outcomes, and the surgical learning experience, particularly in areas where historically marginalized populations have faced significant healthcare gaps.

✅ Conclusion

Camille Blackman is a future physician and trailblazer in gender-affirming healthcare whose interdisciplinary expertise, clinical compassion, and research innovation are advancing inclusive medicine, educational reform, and equity in surgical outcomes.

Publications

Jun-kyu Hwang | Neurosurgery | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Jun-kyu Hwang | Neurosurgery | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jun Kyu Hwang is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at Yongin Severance Hospital, affiliated with Yonsei University College of Medicine in Korea. He earned his M.D. from Yonsei University in 2010 and later pursued a Master’s and currently a Ph.D. in Neurosurgery at the same institution. With extensive clinical training and fellowships in pediatric and general neurosurgery at prestigious institutions including Severance Hospital and Asan Medical Center, Dr. Hwang has built a robust academic and clinical foundation. Since 2021, he has been serving in his current role, contributing to surgical education, clinical practice, and neurosurgical research. His work spans advanced neurosurgical procedures, clinical innovation, and academic mentorship. He is known for his dedication to patient care, surgical precision, and academic rigor. Dr. Hwang’s career reflects his commitment to advancing neurosurgical practice through a combination of hands-on experience and continued academic pursuit.

Profile

🎓 Education

Dr. Hwang completed his M.D. degree at Yonsei University College of Medicine in 2010, laying the groundwork for a career dedicated to neuroscience and clinical surgery. Driven by academic excellence and a passion for neurosurgery, he further obtained a Master’s degree in Neurosurgery from the Graduate School of Yonsei University between 2016 and 2019. His postgraduate educational journey reflects a focus on deepening his expertise in surgical techniques, neurological pathology, and clinical outcomes. Continuing this academic momentum, he is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Neurosurgery at Yonsei University. This doctoral work demonstrates his strong interest in neurosurgical innovation and research, with a commitment to integrating scientific advancement into clinical practice. His education spans both rigorous academic study and immersive clinical training, forming a comprehensive foundation for excellence in neurosurgical care and research. Dr. Hwang’s ongoing academic endeavors ensure that he remains at the forefront of modern neurosurgical developments.

🧪 Experience

Dr. Hwang began his clinical journey with a neurosurgical residency at Severance Hospital, Yonsei University from 2014 to 2017, where he gained comprehensive surgical and clinical experience. He continued his training as a Clinical Fellow in Pediatric Neurosurgery at Severance Hospital in 2018, focusing on the surgical treatment of neurological conditions in children. From 2019 to 2020, he expanded his expertise through a fellowship at Asan Medical Center under the University of Ulsan, specializing further in complex neurosurgical procedures. In 2021, he assumed the role of Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University. His professional roles have encompassed patient care, surgical instruction, and clinical mentorship. Dr. Hwang’s experience reflects a trajectory of increasing responsibility, technical refinement, and dedication to both adult and pediatric neurosurgical practice. He continues to contribute significantly to clinical excellence, resident education, and research development in neurosurgery.

🏅 Awards and Honors

While specific awards and honors are not listed in the provided CV, Dr. Jun Kyu Hwang’s prestigious appointments and continuous academic advancement signify professional recognition and trust by leading medical institutions. His acceptance into competitive fellowships at Severance Hospital and Asan Medical Center—two of Korea’s top medical centers—reflect his exceptional competence and commitment to excellence. His transition from residency to fellowship and then to Clinical Assistant Professor at Yongin Severance Hospital is itself a mark of distinction. Typically, such roles are conferred upon individuals who demonstrate not only strong clinical capabilities but also promise in academic and research contributions. His ongoing Ph.D. candidacy at Yonsei University also indicates academic recognition and support for his scholarly potential. These milestones together point to a career distinguished by merit-based progression, institutional confidence, and high standards of patient care and medical professionalism.

🔬 Research Focus

Dr. Hwang’s research focuses on the clinical and surgical aspects of neurosurgery, with a particular interest in pediatric neurosurgery, advanced surgical techniques, and neuro-oncology. His academic pathway, including a Master’s and ongoing Ph.D. in Neurosurgery, is aligned with investigating surgical outcomes, improving procedural methodologies, and exploring innovative approaches to treating neurological disorders. His clinical fellowships and continued academic pursuits suggest involvement in translational research—bridging laboratory findings with clinical applications. As a Clinical Assistant Professor, he likely collaborates in institutional research initiatives, contributes to clinical trials, and mentors junior researchers. His research aims to enhance precision in neurosurgical interventions, reduce complications, and improve recovery outcomes, particularly in pediatric populations. With experience in high-volume tertiary hospitals, Dr. Hwang integrates his research with real-world patient care, contributing data-driven insights to the academic community. His long-term vision likely involves developing safer, more effective neurosurgical strategies through evidence-based practice.

✅ Conclusion

Dr. Jun Kyu Hwang exemplifies a dedicated neurosurgeon committed to academic excellence, clinical expertise, and research innovation, making impactful contributions to both patient care and the neurosurgical field in Korea.

Corneliu Toader | Neurosurgery | Distinguished Scientist Award

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Dr. Corneliu Toader | Neurosurgery | Distinguished Scientist Award

Conf. Univ. Dr. Corneliu Toader is a renowned Romanian neurosurgeon, serving as a primary neurosurgeon at the National Institute of Neurology and Neurovascular Diseases since 2000 and as a university lecturer at “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest. With over three decades of experience, he has performed over 3,200 complex neurosurgical operations, including more than 1,200 cerebral aneurysms. His clinical expertise spans cerebrovascular surgery, AV malformations, brain and skull base tumors, and spinal procedures. He has also held key leadership roles, including Manager of the National Institute of Neurology since 2009. A dedicated academic, he has advanced from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor, shaping the next generation of neurosurgeons. He is multilingual and trained across Europe, bringing global standards to Romanian neurosurgery.

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Toader graduated from the “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, in 1986, with a general medicine degree and the highest honors, scoring 10/10 in his licensure exam. He completed secondary education at Liceul Sanitar Galați (1976–1980). In 2007, he earned his Ph.D. in Medicine from “Carol Davila” University, awarded Magna Cum Laude by ministerial decree. He has received international neurosurgical training via EANS courses in spine, vascular, pediatric, and functional neurosurgery, conducted in France, the Netherlands, Czech Republic, and Germany. Additional training includes pediatric neurosurgery in Brașov, reconstructive microsurgery in Italy, skull base surgery in Bucharest, and a visiting neurosurgeon stage in Marburg, Germany. His continuous education in Europe reflects a commitment to cutting-edge neurosurgical advancements and academic excellence.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Toader’s medical career began in 1986 as a military intern doctor, followed by a general practice role (1989–1990) in Galați. From 1990 to 1995, he trained as a neurosurgery resident at Spitalul “Gheorghe Marinescu,” Bucharest. He then served as neurosurgery specialist (1995–2000), and since 2000, as a primary neurosurgeon at the National Institute of Neurology and Neurovascular Diseases. Academically, he began as Assistant Professor in 1999, became Senior Lecturer in 2011, and is now Associate Professor at “Carol Davila” University. He was Medical Director (2007–2009) and has been Manager of the National Institute since 2009. He has performed over 3,200 advanced neurosurgical procedures. His organizational skills include public health service management, acquired through specialized national training. He is highly skilled in both clinical and academic neurosurgery with leadership roles in institutional governance.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Toader was awarded Magna Cum Laude for his 2007 Ph.D. in Medicine from “Carol Davila” University. He graduated with a perfect score in his medical licensure exam, a rare academic distinction. He has received recognition for completing prestigious neurosurgery training programs across Europe under the European Association of Neurosurgical Societies (EANS). He was invited as a foreign visiting neurosurgeon to the University Clinic of Neurosurgery in Marburg, Germany. His leadership roles as Medical Director and Manager of the National Institute reflect his exceptional administrative and professional contributions. His expertise in micro-neurosurgery, laser neurosurgery, and skull base procedures has earned him recognition within the Romanian and European neurosurgical community. Additionally, his proficiency in English, French, and Italian supports his international collaborations and continued excellence in academic and surgical fields.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Toader’s research interests align with his surgical expertise in cerebrovascular diseases, particularly cerebral aneurysms, arterio-venous malformations, and skull base tumors. His academic and clinical investigations emphasize advanced techniques in micro-neurosurgery, laser-assisted surgery, and reconstructive neurosurgery. He integrates his European neurosurgical training into practice, enhancing outcomes for complex brain and spinal pathologies. His research also covers pediatric neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, and functional neurosurgery. Dr. Toader is engaged in multidisciplinary studies to improve surgical approaches and patient recovery, supported by his teaching role at “Carol Davila” University. His managerial experience supports institutional research projects focused on clinical innovation, procedural safety, and surgical efficacy. His contributions shape national neurosurgical protocols and mentor research in clinical neurosciences and neurosurgical education.

Publications

Forshing Lui | Neurology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Forshing Lui | Neurology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. For-Shing Lui, a U.S. citizen and licensed neurologist in California, the UK, and Hong Kong, is an esteemed academic and clinician with over four decades of international experience in neurology and internal medicine, currently serving as Professor of Neurology at California Northstate University College of Medicine (CNUCOM), where he contributes significantly to medical education, curriculum development, and professional regulatory boards.

Profile

Education 🎓

Dr. Lui completed his M.B.B.S. from the University of Hong Kong in 1978, followed by an internal medicine residency (1978–1982) at the same institution; he then undertook neurology fellowship training at Newcastle General Hospital, UK (1982–1984), and a neurology residency at UC Davis (1995–1999), also serving as Chief Resident; his qualifications include being a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians (Edinburgh), Fellow of the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine, and Fellow of the American Academy of Neurology.

Experience 👨‍🏫

Dr. Lui has served as Expert Consultant and Reviewer for the Medical Board of California, Professor and Course Director at CNUCOM since 2014, Chair of Clinical Sciences, and Vice Chair of Education; formerly, he was Staff Neurologist and Chief of Neurology at Kaiser Permanente, Clinical Professor at UC Davis, and practiced as a neurologist and internist in Hong Kong; his roles spanned clinical practice, academic leadership, curriculum design, quality assurance, and international consultancy.

Awards & Recognitions 🏅

Dr. Lui received the 2022 A.B. Baker Teacher Recognition Award from the American Academy of Neurology, the ITLE University Distinguished Teacher Award in 2021, and multiple CNUCOM Professor of the Year Awards (2019–2023); his national recognitions include listings in America’s Top Physicians and Sacramento Magazine’s Top Doctors; he won the Croucher Fellowship (1982), John Anderson Gold Medal (1978), and several medical school scholarships for academic excellence, including the Li Shu Fan Prize in Pharmacology.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Lui’s academic and clinical interests lie in neurology education, vascular neurology, neuroimaging, and multiple sclerosis, with a deep commitment to medical pedagogy and curriculum leadership; his research integrates neurodiagnostic techniques with clinical neurology, particularly in imaging-based teaching, and he has presented regularly at neuroradiology conferences and contributed to educational innovation in neurology training at both Kaiser Permanente and CNUCOM, reflecting a lifelong dedication to mentoring, patient care, and advancing neurologic knowledge.

Publications