Dr. Douglas Evans | Surgery | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Douglas Evans | Surgery | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Douglas Evans, Medical College of Wisconsin, United States

Dr. Douglas B. Evans is a distinguished leader in surgical oncology and currently serves as Chair of the Department of Surgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin. His medical expertise focuses on pancreatic cancer and complex surgical oncology, where he has made significant contributions through his leadership and research. He is highly respected for his extensive work at prestigious institutions, including the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, where he previously held a tenured professorship. Dr. Evans’ commitment to advancing cancer research and improving patient care has earned him recognition nationally and internationally. He has served on multiple national advisory boards and contributed to various scientific committees. Dr. Evans’ work continues to impact the fields of surgery and oncology, enhancing the understanding and treatment of pancreatic cancer.

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Summary of Suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award

Dr. Douglas B. Evans, with his extensive background in surgical oncology and a distinguished career, is highly suited for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His leadership as Chair of the Department of Surgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin since 2009 demonstrates his commitment to advancing surgical practices and medical education. His impressive list of academic and clinical roles, including his tenure as a professor at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, highlights his sustained contributions to the field of cancer research, particularly in pancreatic and thyroid cancers.

🎓 Education 

Dr. Douglas B. Evans received his foundational education at Oliver Ames High School in North Easton, Massachusetts. He then attended Bates College in Lewiston, Maine, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree. His medical journey continued at Boston University School of Medicine, where he obtained his M.D. Following this, Dr. Evans pursued postgraduate training in surgery at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, where he completed both his internship and residency in general surgery. His specialization in surgical oncology was honed during his fellowship at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. This extensive academic background provided him with the expertise required to become a leading figure in the surgical treatment of pancreatic and gastrointestinal cancers. His licensures include multiple states such as Texas and Wisconsin, and he is board-certified by the American Board of Surgery, with recertifications reflecting his continued commitment to excellence in surgical practice.

💼  Experience 

Dr. Douglas B. Evans has an extensive career in surgical oncology, marked by significant leadership roles. He began as an Instructor in Surgery at Dartmouth Medical School and progressed to Teaching Associate at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. At MD Anderson, Dr. Evans ascended from Assistant Professor to full Professor of Surgery, eventually securing the Hamill Foundation Distinguished Professorship in honor of Dr. Richard G. Martin, Sr. Since 2009, he has been the Chair of the Department of Surgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin, where he also holds the Ausman Family Foundation Chair. Dr. Evans’ career highlights include serving as Surgeon-in-Chief at Froedtert Hospital and contributing to numerous advisory boards and national committees. His experience and influence in academic surgery, particularly in pancreatic cancer research and treatment, have established him as a key figure in the surgical oncology field.

🏅 Awards and Honors 

Dr. Douglas B. Evans has received numerous awards and honors throughout his distinguished career in surgical oncology. Early recognition came with the Resident’s Publication Award in 1985, followed by the prestigious Thomas P. Almy Award in 1987. His dedication to teaching was acknowledged by multiple Outstanding Teacher Awards, notably in 1995 and 2003 at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. In 1999, he was awarded the American College of Surgeons Traveling Fellowship. More recently, Dr. Evans was honored with the Andrew L. Warshaw Master Educator Award in 2014 from the Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract, as well as the Wisconsin Way Award in Medicine in 2018. In 2021, he was appointed to the Douglas B. Evans Chair for Surgical Research, a testament to his contributions to both clinical practice and academic surgery. In 2023, he received the Benjamin E. Mays Medal from Bates College, their highest alumni honor.

🌍 Research Focus

Dr. Douglas B. Evans’ research primarily focuses on the surgical treatment of pancreatic cancer and complex gastrointestinal cancers. His work has significantly advanced the understanding of pancreatic tumor biology and the development of surgical techniques to improve patient outcomes. He is particularly interested in translational research that bridges basic science discoveries and clinical applications. Dr. Evans has contributed to groundbreaking studies on the molecular mechanisms driving pancreatic cancer, enhancing the accuracy of surgical interventions and postoperative care. His research has been pivotal in the development of multi-disciplinary treatment approaches that combine surgery with chemotherapy and radiation therapy for pancreatic and other gastrointestinal cancers. As a renowned leader in his field, Dr. Evans has published extensively in high-impact medical journals, and his research efforts continue to shape the landscape of surgical oncology and improve the prognosis for cancer patients worldwide.

📖 Publication Top Notes

  • One hundred years after “carcinoid”: epidemiology of and prognostic factors for neuroendocrine tumors in 35,825 cases in the United States
    • Citation: 5547
  • Management of Thyroid Nodules Detected at US: Society of Radiologists in Ultrasound Consensus Conference Statement
    • Citation: 1921
  • Medullary thyroid cancer: management guidelines of the American Thyroid Association
    • Citation: 1712
  • Cancer-associated stromal fibroblasts promote pancreatic tumor progression
    • Citation: 1310
  • Borderline resectable pancreatic cancer: definitions, management, and role of preoperative therapy
    • Citation: 1012

Dr. Cedric Anthierens | Marine Robotics | Business Innovation Award

Dr. Cedric Anthierens | Marine Robotics | Business Innovation Award

Dr. Cedric Anthierens, COSMER Lab, University of Toulon, France

Cédric Anthierens is an Associate Professor at the University of Toulon, where he heads the mechatronics and robotics department at the Seatech Engineering School. A graduate of INSA of Lyon in 1996, Cédric earned his PhD in microrobotics in 1999. His academic career spans two decades, during which he has focused on research in marine and submarine robotics. At the COSMER Lab, his work includes developing underwater robots, umbilical management systems, and cooperation between autonomous surface and underwater vehicles. Beyond academia, Cédric collaborates with industry leaders like AlcenAlseamar, managing fleets of autonomous gliders to further enhance maritime exploration technologies.

Professional Profile

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Summary of Suitability for the Research for Business Innovation Award 

Cédric Anthierens demonstrates strong qualifications for the Research for Business Innovation Award, with a unique blend of academic research and real-world business innovation. As an Associate Professor at the University of Toulon’s COSMER Lab, his work focuses on marine and submarine robotics, with a specific emphasis on autonomous surface and underwater vehicles. This field of research directly contributes to cutting-edge advancements in marine technology, offering practical applications in industries like defense, ocean exploration, and environmental monitoring.

 🎓  Education 

Cédric Anthierens holds a degree in Engineering from INSA Lyon, a prestigious French engineering school, which he completed in 1996. He pursued further studies in robotics, earning a PhD in microrobotics in 1999. His doctoral research focused on the intricacies of micromechanical systems, laying the foundation for his career in marine robotics. He further honed his expertise through various advanced research programs, specializing in underwater vehicle navigation and autonomous robotics. His academic background, a blend of theoretical and practical experience, has been instrumental in shaping the curriculum at the Seatech Engineering School, where he now leads the mechatronics and robotics department.

💼   Experience 

Cédric Anthierens has extensive experience in the field of robotics, particularly in marine and underwater systems. Since joining the University of Toulon in 2014, he has served as the head of the mechatronics and robotics department at Seatech Engineering School. His research focuses on creating autonomous systems for both surface and underwater vehicles, and he has collaborated with leading organizations such as AlcenAlseamar and Sherpa Engineering. Through projects like fleet management of autonomous underwater gliders and advanced algorithms for robotic path planning, he has contributed significantly to the field of marine robotics. His academic and industrial experience positions him as a key figure in advancing underwater robotic technologies.

🏅  Awards and Honors 

Cédric Anthierens has received numerous accolades for his contributions to marine and robotics research. His work on developing underwater robotic systems has garnered recognition from both academic and industrial organizations. He has been honored for his innovations in autonomous vehicle navigation and path planning, including awards for excellence in innovation. His leadership in managing industry collaborations, particularly with AlcenAlseamar, has also been acknowledged, as he played a pivotal role in advancing the capabilities of autonomous underwater gliders. As an academic leader, Cédric has received institutional awards for his contributions to the Seatech Engineering School, where he has successfully led the mechatronics and robotics department.

🌍  Research Focus 

Cédric Anthierens’ research primarily revolves around the development of autonomous marine and submarine robotic systems. His focus is on improving the intelligence and effectiveness of glider fleets, advancing algorithms for underwater vehicle navigation, and optimizing robotic path planning. He has worked extensively on cooperative systems between autonomous surface vehicles (USVs) and underwater vehicles (ROVs), particularly addressing umbilical management between these systems. At the COSMER Lab, his research has led to the creation of simulation tools that enhance the planning and execution of underwater missions, enabling robots to perform tasks more efficiently. His collaboration with industrial partners has also contributed to practical advancements in maritime robotics.

📖 Sustainable SolutionsPublications Top Notes

  •  Automated Deployment of an Underwater Tether Equipped with a Compliant Buoy–Ballast System for Remotely Operated Vehicle Intervention
  •  A New Flex-Sensor-Based Umbilical-Length Management System for Underwater Robots
  •  A Simulator of Underwater Glider Missions for Path Planning
  •  Towards Active Self-Management of Umbilical Linking ROV and USV for Safer Submarine Missions
  •  Sensory Navigation Guide for Visually Impaired Sea Kayakers

Dr. Soheila Kookalani | Construction | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Soheila Kookalani | Construction | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Soheila Kookalani, Cambridge University, United Kingdom

Soheila Kookalani is a distinguished Research Associate at the University of Cambridge, specializing in Civil and Structural Engineering. She has a profound expertise in steel reuse, the circular economy, life-cycle assessment, and the integration of digital twin technologies in construction. Her research focuses on leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to optimize structural designs, promoting sustainability in construction. Soheila holds a Ph.D. in Civil and Structural Engineering from Shanghai Jiao Tong University, where she pioneered research on GFRP elastic gridshells. With a commitment to environmental responsibility, she continuously explores innovative ways to integrate sustainable practices into building designs, aiming to revolutionize construction methodologies. She has numerous publications in leading journals, demonstrating her contribution to both academia and the industry. Her work emphasizes sustainable engineering practices that align with modern technological advancements, particularly in the realm of structural optimization and reuse strategies.

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Summary of Suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award

Soheila Kookalani’s innovative approach to structural engineering, coupled with her strong commitment to sustainability and integration of advanced technologies, positions her as a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her work has significant implications for the future of sustainable construction, making her a valuable asset to both academia and industry.

🎓 Education 

Soheila Kookalani pursued her academic journey with a solid foundation in architectural and civil engineering. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from Azad University in Iran, where her thesis explored hybrid architecture in cinematic arts. She then advanced her studies with a Master of Science in Civil and Structural Engineering from Hohai University, China, focusing on the seismic performance of hybrid structures in high-rise buildings. Her academic journey culminated with a Ph.D. from Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China, where she focused on the structural optimization of GFRP elastic gridshells using machine learning techniques. Her doctoral research contributed to advancing knowledge in structural design and building sustainability. Throughout her studies, Soheila has consistently integrated innovative technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, into her research, making her an authority in the field of structural design and optimization for sustainable construction.

💼 Experience 

Soheila Kookalani has accumulated extensive experience in civil and structural engineering, with a primary focus on sustainable design practices. She currently serves as a Research Associate at the University of Cambridge, where she is engaged in a groundbreaking project on the reuse of structural steel in construction. Her experience spans across diverse areas, including the circular economy, life-cycle assessment, building information modeling (BIM), and digital twin technology. From 2018 to 2022, she conducted research on GFRP elastic gridshells as part of her Ph.D. at Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Prior to this, Soheila gained practical experience working on seismic performance evaluation of hybrid structures during her Master’s at Hohai University. Her expertise also extends to the application of artificial intelligence in optimizing structural designs, demonstrating her capacity to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical application in sustainable construction.

🏅Awards and Honors 

Throughout her academic and professional career, Soheila Kookalani has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to civil and structural engineering. She has received several prestigious awards and honors, including recognition from leading engineering conferences and academic institutions. Her work on the integration of AI and machine learning in structural design has garnered international attention, earning her accolades for innovation in sustainable construction. Soheila has also been honored for her research on GFRP elastic gridshells, receiving commendations for excellence in structural optimization and sustainable design. Her role as a published author in top-tier engineering journals has further solidified her reputation as a leading researcher in the field. Additionally, Soheila’s contributions to the reuse of structural steel and her involvement in cutting-edge projects at the University of Cambridge have earned her numerous industry awards, highlighting her commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable engineering practices.

🌍 Research Focus 

Soheila Kookalani’s research is centered on the intersection of civil engineering, sustainability, and advanced technology. Her primary focus is on steel reuse, promoting a circular economy in construction through the reuse of structural components. She is also deeply involved in life-cycle assessments, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of construction projects. Her research integrates building information modeling (BIM) and digital twin technology to enhance the design, monitoring, and optimization of construction projects. Soheila is particularly interested in applying artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to optimize structural designs, especially in the context of GFRP elastic gridshells. Her work on generative AI in structural engineering seeks to streamline design processes and improve sustainability. By combining these advanced technologies, her research contributes to developing more efficient, eco-friendly building practices that align with global sustainability goals.

📖 Publication Top Notes

  • BIM-based augmented reality for facility maintenance management
    • Cited by: 24
  • Structural analysis of GFRP elastic gridshell structures by particle swarm optimization and least square support vector machine algorithms
    • Cited by: 18
  • Shape optimization of GFRP elastic gridshells by the weighted Lagrange ε-twin support vector machine and multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm considering …
    • Cited by: 14
  • An analytic approach to predict the shape and internal forces of barrel vault elastic gridshells during lifting construction
    • Cited by: 14
  • Effect of Fluid Viscous Damper parameters on the seismic performance
    • Cited by: 14

Ms. Effimia Angeli | Prehistoric Archaeology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Effimia Angeli | Prehistoric Archaeology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Effimia Angeli, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Poland

Effimia Angeli is an accomplished archaeologist and PhD candidate at Maria Curie-Skłodowska University in Poland. Born on June 7, 1991, she has developed expertise in Neolithic pottery, focusing on Central Greece. Her passion for archaeology began during her undergraduate studies at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology and History of Art in 2014. She went on to pursue a Master’s in Mediterranean Archaeology at the University of Nottingham, completing her thesis on Neolithic painted ware. Effimia has participated in various archaeological projects across Greece and Poland, working extensively in field excavations, museum curation, and digital documentation. Her current PhD research delves into pottery as a source of information on Neolithic communities in Phthiotis, Greece. She continues to present her findings at international conferences, contributing to our understanding of ancient Mediterranean cultures.

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Suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award: Effimia Angeli

Effimia Angeli’s extensive academic background, research contributions, and practical experience in archaeology make her a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. She holds a Master’s degree in Mediterranean Archaeology from the University of Nottingham with distinction and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in archaeology, focusing on the Neolithic communities of Greece. Her diverse and high-quality research includes significant contributions to the understanding of pottery as a historical source, showcasing her ability to connect material culture to broader anthropological questions. Her publications in international journals, coupled with her participation in numerous excavation projects across Europe, reflect her ongoing commitment to advancing the field of archaeology.

 🎓 Education 

Effimia Angeli’s academic journey reflects her deep interest in archaeology. She is currently a PhD candidate at Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Poland, where her dissertation explores Neolithic pottery from Phthiotis, Central Greece, examining the period from 6370–5300 BC. She earned her Master of Arts in Mediterranean Archaeology from the University of Nottingham, UK, in 2019. Her MA thesis focused on the development of painted ware during the Middle and Late Neolithic periods in Central Greece, receiving a Distinction. Before that, she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Archaeology and History of Art at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens in 2014, with a thesis examining pottery in early Greek settlements. Her education has provided her with both theoretical knowledge and practical field experience, shaping her into an expert on Neolithic pottery and its role in ancient civilizations.

🏆 Grants

In 2024–2025, the Association for Environmental Archaeology (AEA) awarded a grant of 1961 GBP for the project “Environment and Interactions in Neolithic Greece: geoarchaeological research at Halai (Central Greece).” Led by Principal Investigator E. Angeli, the project focuses on exploring environmental and human interactions during the Neolithic period through geoarchaeological investigations at the site of Halai.

💼 Experience 

Effimia Angeli has a broad range of archaeological experience. Since 2021, she has participated in 13 rescue excavations in Poland, contributing to projects with firms like ArchaeoAdventure and Azupiranu Archaeological Services. She has worked on excavation sites across Poland, including medieval churches and cemeteries, gaining experience in digital documentation and excavation management. In Greece, Effimia has been part of the Cornell Halai and East Lokris Project since 2012, focusing on the study of Neolithic pottery. Her prior roles also include curatorial work for various Greek museums, where she was involved in the digital recording of collections. Her experience extends to training undergraduate students in archaeological drawing, excavation techniques, and pottery analysis. Effimia’s expertise spans prehistoric, medieval, and Roman archaeological contexts, making her a versatile and skilled professional in both field and academic settings.

🏅Awards and Honors 

Effimia Angeli has achieved recognition for her academic and fieldwork contributions in archaeology. In 2023, she secured first place in the PhD evaluation procedure at Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Poland, earning a 100% qualification for her research on Neolithic pottery. During her studies at the University of Nottingham, she was awarded a Distinction for her MA thesis on painted ware from Thessaly and Central Greece. Effimia has also been invited to present her research at prestigious international conferences, including the European Association of Archaeologists’ Annual Meetings and the Belgrade Conference on Archaeological Pottery. Her contributions to publications and her role as a field team leader in various excavation projects have earned her respect among her peers. Effimia’s dedication to the advancement of archaeological knowledge has been consistently recognized throughout her career.

🌍 Research Focus 

Effimia Angeli’s research is centered on Neolithic pottery, with a specific focus on Central Greece. Her PhD dissertation examines pottery as a source of information about Neolithic communities in Phthiotis from 6370 to 5300 BC. Effimia’s approach combines macroscopic analysis and conceptual metaphor theory to understand the symbolic and functional uses of pottery in ancient societies. Her previous work has explored the development of painted ware during the Middle and Late Neolithic periods, comparing regional differences between Thessaly and Central Greece. Effimia is particularly interested in the intersection of material culture and community identity, using ceramics as a lens through which to understand trade, social interaction, and environmental adaptation in prehistoric Greece. Her research also touches on the influence of natural disasters, such as earthquakes and tsunamis, on settlement patterns and pottery styles in coastal regions.

Publication Top Notes

“Conceptual meanings in middle Neolithic red-painted pottery from Central Greece: A case study”
“The Late Neolithic Pattern Burnished Pottery from Halai in East Locris, Central Greece: Preliminary Results of the Macroscopic Analysis”
“How did environmental factors affect the spread of Minoan Thalassocracy? Seasonal changes in winds and currents and their influence on the Minoan exchange networks”
“Painting the pots in the Middle Neolithic period. Red-on-White pottery from Central Greece”
“The development of maritime activity in the Aegean during the Bronze Age: navigational techniques and shipbuilding”