Makiko Mitsunami | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Makiko Mitsunami | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Makiko Mitsunami, Integrated Center for Women’s Health, Japan

Dr. Makiko Mitsunami is a dedicated physician-scientist specializing in obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive epidemiology. Born in Shiga, Japan, she obtained her MD from Jichi Medical University in 2008 and earned an MMSc from Harvard Medical School in Clinical Investigations. She later completed her PhD at Jichi Medical University, further enriching her academic prowess. Her professional journey includes rigorous clinical residency and postdoctoral research fellowships at prestigious institutions such as the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Dr. Mitsunami’s research explores the intersection of nutrition, environmental health, and reproductive outcomes, with a strong focus on plant-based diets, infertility, and hormonal biomarkers. Her numerous grants and awards—including multiple research fundings from the Fuji Protein Foundation—underscore her impactful work. As a research associate at Harvard, she continues to mentor students and contribute to groundbreaking studies, advocating for women’s reproductive health globally through science and public health interventions.

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Suitability Summary for Research for Best Researcher Award

Dr. Makiko Mitsunami is an exemplary candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award based on her robust academic background, extensive clinical and research experience, and impactful contributions to medical science, particularly in obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive health. She holds an MD, MMSc in Clinical Investigations, and a PhD, combining rigorous clinical training with advanced research expertise from prestigious institutions such as Jichi Medical University and Harvard Medical School. This strong educational foundation supports her credibility and authority in her field.

Throughout her career, Dr. Mitsunami has balanced clinical responsibilities and academic pursuits, holding roles from junior resident to senior medical staff and research fellow. Her postdoctoral research experience at Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health highlights her commitment to advancing public health knowledge, particularly in areas such as nutrition, environmental health, and epidemiology, under the guidance of notable principal investigators. Her leadership experience as Associate Director of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Higashi-Ohmi General Medical Center further demonstrates her ability to integrate research with clinical practice and manage healthcare delivery effectively.

🎓 Education 

Dr. Makiko Mitsunami embarked on her academic journey at Jichi Medical University, where she earned her MD in 2008, followed by postgraduate residency training in obstetrics and gynecology across multiple medical centers in Japan. Pursuing a passion for clinical research, she enrolled in Harvard Medical School’s Master of Medical Sciences (MMSc) in Clinical Investigations, graduating in May 2021. She culminated her academic accomplishments with a PhD in Medicine from Jichi Medical University in 2023, reflecting a robust blend of clinical acumen and research excellence. Her academic path was enriched with prestigious international training experiences at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, where she contributed to studies on nutrition, epidemiology, and environmental health. Her cross-disciplinary education and commitment to women’s health have made her a prominent figure in reproductive medicine and global health. Her educational background empowers her ongoing contributions to cutting-edge research and healthcare improvement.

💼 Professional Experience 

Dr. Mitsunami’s professional experience spans clinical practice, academic appointments, and cutting-edge public health research. She began her career as a junior and senior resident in obstetrics and gynecology across several hospitals in Japan, including Otsu Red Cross and Shiga University of Medical Science Hospital. From 2012 to 2015, she served as a Visiting Assistant Professor of General Surgery, later becoming Associate Director of the Ob-Gyn department at Higashi-Ohmi General Medical Center. Her passion for research led her to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, where she currently serves as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow and Research Associate under esteemed mentors such as Dr. Jorge Chavarro and Dr. Shruthi Mahalingaiah. Her research addresses nutrition, endocrine health, infertility, and environmental exposures. She has also contributed significantly to student training and curriculum development. Her diverse professional background uniquely positions her at the intersection of clinical medicine and impactful research.

🏅 Awards and Recognition

Dr. Makiko Mitsunami has been widely recognized for her contributions to reproductive medicine and clinical research. Early in her career, she received the Young Investigator’s Award in 2012 from the Society for Study of the Kidney in Pregnancy for her work on cardiomyopathy in dialysis patients. She has been awarded multiple competitive research grants from the Fuji Protein for Research Foundation between 2021 and 2025, totaling over $30,000 in support of her investigations into soy-based diets and reproductive health. In 2023, she was honored with the JMSA Scholarship from the Japanese Medical Society of America. Notably, she secured a prestigious Rotary Foundation Global Scholarship for her research on plant-based diets and hypertensive disorders during pregnancy, valued at $69,776. Additionally, she was selected as a Rose Service Learning Program Fellow at Harvard in 2024. These accolades reflect her growing global impact and academic excellence.

🌍 Research Skill On Medicine

Dr. Mitsunami brings a multifaceted research skill set to the field of reproductive medicine, grounded in clinical expertise and public health methodology. Her core research skills include epidemiologic study design, statistical data analysis, and translational research in human reproduction. She excels in linking environmental exposures and dietary patterns—especially plant-based diets—to hormonal health and fertility. Her work leverages biomarker analyses such as Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels to evaluate ovarian reserve, endometriosis risk, and menopausal timing. Through her affiliations at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, she collaborates across departments of nutrition, epidemiology, and environmental health, contributing to multidisciplinary studies. Fluent in Japanese and English, she conducts culturally sensitive research on fertility awareness among Japanese populations in the U.S.. Her ability to secure funding, lead research protocols, and co-author impactful publications highlights her as a capable and forward-thinking researcher improving global reproductive outcomes.

📖 Publication Top Notes

  • Access to HPV vaccination in Japan: Increasing social trust to regain vaccine confidence
    Authors: K Kunitoki, M Funato, M Mitsunami, T Kinoshita, MR Reich
    Journal: Vaccine
    Volume(Issue): 39 (41), Pages: 6104-6110
    Citations: 42
    Year: 2021

  • Association of gestational diabetes with subsequent long-term risk of mortality
    Authors: YX Wang, M Mitsunami, JAE Manson, AJ Gaskins, JW Rich-Edwards, …
    Journal: JAMA Internal Medicine
    Volume(Issue): 183 (11), Pages: 1204-1213
    Citations: 37
    Year: 2023

  • Women’s and men’s intake of omega-3 fatty acids and their food sources and assisted reproductive technology outcomes
    Authors: A Salas-Huetos, M Arvizu, L Mínguez-Alarcón, M Mitsunami, …
    Journal: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
    Volume(Issue): 227 (2), Pages: 246.e1-246.e11
    Citations: 32
    Year: 2022

  • Paternal adherence to healthy dietary patterns in relation to sperm parameters and outcomes of assisted reproductive technologies
    Authors: A Salas-Huetos, L Mínguez-Alarcón, M Mitsunami, M Arvizu, JB Ford, …
    Journal: Fertility and Sterility
    Volume(Issue): 117 (2), Pages: 298-312
    Citations: 23
    Year: 2022

  • Physical activity before pregnancy and the risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy
    Authors: M Arvizu, L Minguez-Alarcon, JJ Stuart, M Mitsunami, B Rosner, …
    Journal: American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology MFM
    Volume(Issue): 4 (2), Article: 100556
    Citations: 19
    Year: 2022

  • Pre-pregnancy menstrual cycle regularity and length and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus: prospective cohort study
    Authors: YX Wang, S Wang, M Mitsunami, JAE Manson, JW Rich-Edwards, …
    Journal: Diabetologia
    Volume(Issue): 64 (11), Pages: 2415-2424
    Citations: 14
    Year: 2021

  • A dietary score representing the overall relation of men’s diet with semen quality in relation to outcomes of infertility treatment with assisted reproduction
    Authors: M Mitsunami, A Salas-Huetos, L Mínguez-Alarcón, JA Attaman, JB Ford, …
    Journal: F&S Reports
    Volume(Issue): 2 (4), Pages: 396-404
    Citations: 12
    Year: 2021

  • Prepregnancy healthy lifestyle and adverse pregnancy outcomes
    Authors: S Wang, M Mitsunami, E Ortiz-Panozo, CW Leung, JAE Manson, …
    Journal: Obstetrics & Gynecology
    DOI: 10.1097
    Citations: 11
    Year: 2022

  • Men’s dietary patterns in relation to infertility treatment outcomes among couples undergoing in vitro fertilization
    Authors: M Mitsunami, A Salas-Huetos, L Mínguez-Alarcón, JA Attaman, JB Ford, …
    Journal: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics
    Volume(Issue): 38 (9), Pages: 2307-2318
    Citations: 11
    Year: 2021

  • Women’s adherence to healthy dietary patterns and outcomes of infertility treatment
    Authors: A Salas-Huetos, M Mitsunami, S Wang, L Mínguez-Alarcón, …
    Journal: JAMA Network Open
    Volume(Issue): 6 (8), Article: e2329982
    Citations: 10
    Year: 2023

 

Do Young Kim | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Do Young Kim | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Do Young Kim, Yonsei University College of Medicine South Korea

Do Young Kim is a Professor of Internal Medicine at Yonsei University College of Medicine and a hepatologist at Severance Hospital in Seoul, Korea. Having been part of the faculty since 2007, Dr. Kim is widely recognized for his contributions to hepatology, particularly in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). He earned his medical degree from Yonsei University in 1996 and completed his training at Severance Hospital. Dr. Kim’s research experience includes a position as a research associate at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center from 2011 to 2012, where he focused on proteomics and microRNA in HCC.

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Summary of Suitability for the “Research for Best Researcher Award”

Professor Do Young Kim, a prominent figure in hepatology and internal medicine, has made significant contributions to the field of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and hepatitis C research. As a professor at Yonsei University College of Medicine and a hepatologist at Severance Hospital, he has established himself as a leading expert in his field since 2007. His academic background, including his degree from Yonsei University and specialized training at Severance Hospital, laid a solid foundation for his remarkable career.

His research focus on proteomics and microRNA in HCC, particularly during his tenure at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, has led to innovative insights into the mechanisms underlying liver cancer and hepatitis C. This focus has translated into a series of impactful publications, where he has served as the corresponding author in studies that explore new treatment paradigms and diagnostic advancements for HCC. His work on the efficacy and safety of various treatments, including sorafenib and lenvatinib, has become essential reading for clinicians and researchers alike.

🎓 Education 

Dr. Do Young Kim obtained his medical degree from Yonsei University in Seoul, Korea, in 1996. After completing his studies, he underwent medical training at Severance Hospital, where he continued his professional development until 2001. In 2011, Dr. Kim broadened his academic horizons by becoming a research associate at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, where he focused on proteomics and microRNA in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This international research experience allowed him to deepen his expertise in the molecular aspects of liver cancer. Dr. Kim’s ongoing contributions to medical education and his research have been deeply influenced by his foundational education and global training experiences.

💼 Professional Experience 

Dr. Do Young Kim is currently serving as a Professor of Internal Medicine at Yonsei University College of Medicine and a hepatologist at Severance Hospital in Seoul, Korea. Since joining Severance Hospital in 2007, he has become an integral part of the team, specializing in hepatology and liver diseases. His research has advanced understanding in areas such as hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and hepatitis C. In 2011-2012, Dr. Kim expanded his professional expertise by working as a research associate at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, USA. There, he conducted cutting-edge research in proteomics and microRNA in relation to HCC, which added a new dimension to his medical and scientific career. His ongoing clinical and research contributions have made him a leader in the field of hepatology.

🏅 Awards and Recognition

Dr. Do Young Kim has received significant recognition in the field of hepatology, with several prestigious awards throughout his career. His research on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and hepatitis C has earned him acknowledgment both nationally and internationally. He is particularly recognized for his contributions to clinical practices surrounding HCC and his extensive publication record in highly respected medical journals. His role as a corresponding author in key studies, such as those published in Hepatology and J Gastroenterol Hepatol, highlights his leadership in advancing knowledge about liver disease. Dr. Kim’s research and clinical expertise have earned him the trust and respect of colleagues in the medical community, solidifying his position as a leading expert in the field of internal medicine and hepatology.

🌍 Research Skills On Medicine

Dr. Do Young Kim’s research skills are highly regarded, particularly in the fields of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and hepatitis C. He specializes in proteomics and microRNA, utilizing these molecular techniques to gain deeper insights into the pathophysiology of liver diseases. His time at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center honed his skills in advanced research methodologies, which he continues to apply in his work at Severance Hospital and Yonsei University College of Medicine. Dr. Kim’s research is both experimental and clinical, bridging the gap between laboratory findings and real-world medical applications. He is skilled in conducting large-scale studies, analyzing complex data, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to advance scientific understanding. His research has led to significant clinical improvements in the management of liver diseases, particularly in HCC treatment and early detection.

📖 Publication Top Notes

  • Letter to the editor on “Sorafenib vs. lenvatinib in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma after atezolizumab/bevacizumab failure: a real-world study”
    • Authors: Chon, Y.E., Kim, D.Y., Chon, H.J., Kim, D.Y.
    • Citation: Clinical and Molecular Hepatology, 2025, 31(1), pp. e98–e100
  • The Possible Impact of Zinc-Enriched Multivitamins on Treatment-Naïve Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis Patients
    • Authors: Seo, H.R., Chung, K.B., Kim, D.-Y.
    • Citation: Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2025, 14(1), 260
  • Survey on Alopecia Areata Patients’ Reported Factors that Determine Severity of Alopecia Areata: A Nationwide Multicenter Study
    • Authors: Kim, J.E., Lee, S., Kang, H., Lee, Y.W., Kim, M.-B.
    • Citation: Annals of Dermatology, 2024, 36(6), pp. 376–383
  • Prognostic Efficacy of the Albumin-Bilirubin Score and Treatment Outcomes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Large-Scale, Multi-Center Real-World Database Study
    • Authors: Kim, K.-P., Kim, K.M., Ryoo, B.-Y., Kim, J.-A., Kim, K.-H.
    • Citation: Liver Cancer, 2024, 13(6), pp. 610–628
  • Detection of NUDT15 R139C Variants and Azathioprine Utilization in Patients with Dermatologic Conditions
    • Authors: Chung, K.B., Sung, H., Kim, D.-Y.
    • Citation: International Journal of Dermatology, 2024, 63(3), pp. e75–e77
  • Quantitative Analysis of Hair Luster in a Novel Ultraviolet-Irradiated Mouse Model
    • Authors: Chung, K.B., Lee, Y.I., Kim, Y.J., Kim, D.-Y., Lee, J.H.
    • Citation: International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 2024, 25(3), 1885
    • Citations: 1
  • Heterogeneity in Keloid Scars: Influence of Mechanical Stretching on Keloids Arising from Different Anatomical Sites
    • Authors: Lee, Y.I., Yang, Y., Ham, S., Kim, D.-Y., Lee, J.H.
    • Citation: Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2024
  • The Efficacy of Treatment for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Elderly Patients
    • Authors: Lee, H.A., Lee, S., Lee, H.L., Rhim, H., Kim, D.Y.
    • Citation: Journal of Liver Cancer, 2023, 23(2), pp. 362–376
    • Citations: 2
  • Predictive Biomarkers of Survival in Patients with Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma Receiving Atezolizumab Plus Bevacizumab Treatment
    • Authors: Chon, Y.E., Cheon, J., Kim, H., Chon, H.J., Kim, B.K.
    • Citation: Cancer Medicine, 2023, 12(3), pp. 2731–2738
    • Citations: 26
  • Activated TAZ Induces Liver Cancer in Collaboration with EGFR/HER2 Signaling Pathways
    • Authors: Moon, H., Park, H., Chae, M.J., Kim, D.Y., Ro, S.W.
    • Citation: BMC Cancer, 2022, 22(1), 423
    • Citations: 11

Alfredo Gongora | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Alfredo Gongora | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

👤 Dr. Alfredo Gongora, Centro de Fertilidad Humana en México, Mexico

Dr. José Modesto Alfredo Góngora Rodríguez is a distinguished expert in reproductive medicine and gynecology. As Chairman of the Board and General Director at Centro de Fertilidad Humana, Mexico, he has pioneered key advancements in germ cell cryopreservation, sperm DNA fragmentation studies, and oxidative stress research in sperm. His contributions have significantly shaped the field of reproductive health in Mexico. Dr. Góngora holds a medical degree from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and a specialization in gynecology and obstetrics from Complutense University in Madrid, Spain. With numerous recertifications, he remains a leader in clinical excellence and innovation. Dr. Góngora is also an honorary member of various national and international medical societies, reflecting his global influence in the field. His commitment to advancing human reproductive health continues to inspire both practitioners and researchers worldwide.

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🌟 Assessment of Suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award: Dr. José Modesto Alfredo Góngora Rodríguez

Dr. José Modesto Alfredo Góngora Rodríguez is a distinguished expert in human reproductive medicine, with a remarkable career spanning several decades. His pioneering contributions to germ cell cryopreservation, sperm DNA fragmentation studies, and oxidative stress research in sperm have made significant impacts in the field of reproductive biology. These groundbreaking achievements demonstrate his innovative approach and dedication to advancing medical science, making him a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award.

Dr. Góngora Rodríguez’s extensive educational background and specialization in gynecology, obstetrics, and human reproductive biology underscore his academic rigor and professional commitment. He has been certified and recertified multiple times by the Mexican Board of Gynecology and Obstetrics, reflecting his continuous pursuit of excellence and adherence to the highest standards in his field.

🎓  Education

Dr. Góngora’s academic journey began with a medical degree from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and La Salle University, where he studied from 1973 to 1978. He further specialized in gynecology and obstetrics, completing his postgraduate studies at Complutense University, Hospital Clínico de San Carlos in Madrid, Spain, under the mentorship of Prof. José Botella Llusia. Additional training took place at Hospital de México, solidifying his expertise. His credentials include professional licenses and specialty certifications from the Mexican Board of Gynecology and Obstetrics, with multiple recertifications spanning over two decades. Dr. Góngora has also specialized in human reproductive biology, ensuring his practice aligns with the latest advancements in the field. His dedication to continuous learning and professional development underscores his esteemed reputation as a leader in gynecology and reproductive medicine.

💼 Professional Experience

Dr. José Modesto Alfredo Góngora Rodríguez’s illustrious career is marked by leadership roles and groundbreaking contributions to reproductive medicine. As Chairman of the Board and General Director at Centro de Fertilidad Humana in Mexico, he has pioneered advancements in germ cell cryopreservation, sperm DNA fragmentation, and oxidative stress studies in sperm. His clinical expertise spans decades, complemented by his active participation in numerous national and international medical societies. Dr. Góngora’s professional milestones include founding memberships in esteemed organizations such as the Mexican College of Gynecological Endoscopy and Hysteroscopy. His collaborations with international societies, such as the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, further showcase his global influence. Renowned for his innovative approaches, Dr. Góngora has successfully integrated cutting-edge research into clinical practice, enhancing patient outcomes and advancing the field of human reproduction.

🏅 Awards and Recognitions 

Dr. Góngora’s achievements have earned him prestigious awards and recognitions in reproductive medicine. He is an honorary member of the Mexican College of Specialists in Gynecology and Obstetrics, reflecting his national contributions. He has also been honored by the Mexican Association of Reproductive Medicine and various international societies, including the British Fertility Society and the International Society for Fertility Preservation. His founding memberships in organizations such as the Mexican College of Gynecological Endoscopy and the Medical Society of Ángeles de las Lomas highlight his pioneering spirit. Through multiple recertifications from the Mexican Board of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Dr. Góngora has maintained clinical excellence. These accolades, coupled with his active participation in global medical societies, underscore his lasting impact on advancing reproductive health and gynecology, both in Mexico and internationally.

🌍 Research Skills On Health Professions

Dr. Góngora possesses exceptional research skills, focusing on human reproductive health. His groundbreaking work in germ cell cryopreservation has set benchmarks in fertility preservation techniques. He has conducted pioneering studies on sperm DNA fragmentation, offering valuable insights into male infertility diagnostics and treatment. His research on oxidative stress in sperm has advanced understanding of reproductive biology, influencing clinical protocols globally. Dr. Góngora’s dedication to evidence-based practices is evident in his collaboration with international medical societies, where he integrates cutting-edge findings into clinical applications. His ability to merge research with practice ensures high-quality patient care and contributes to the broader field of reproductive medicine.

📖 Publication Top Notes

1. Sperm Human Biobanking: An Overview
  • Authors: Góngora, A.; Holt, W.V.; Gosálvez, J.
  • Year: 2024
  • Journal: Archives of Medical Research
2. Strong Correlation Between Double-Strand DNA Breaks and Total Sperm DNA Fragmentation in the Human Ejaculate
  • Authors: Gosálvez, J.; Johnston, S.D.; Prado, A.; de la Vega, C.G.; Góngora, A.
  • Year: 2024
  • Journal: Archives of Medical Research
3. Multi-Centre Assessment of Nitroblue Tetrazolium Reactivity in Human Semen as a Potential Marker of Oxidative Stress
  • Authors: Gosálvez, J.; Coppola, L.; Fernández, J.L.; Johnston, S.; Esteves, S.C.
  • Year: 2017
  • Journal: Reproductive BioMedicine Online