Dorota Wasko-Czopnik | Medicine | Academic Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dorota Wasko-Czopnik | Medicine | Academic Excellence Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dorota Wasko-Czopnik | Medicine | Wrocław University of Science and Technology | Poland

Prof. Dorota Waśko-Czopnik, MD, PhD, is a distinguished physician, academic, and researcher specializing in internal medicine, gastroenterology, and nutrition. With over 26 years of service at the Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Internal Medicine at Wrocław Medical University, she has made remarkable contributions to clinical practice and medical education. She previously served as head of the Gastrointestinal Motility Laboratory, where she advanced diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for functional gastrointestinal disorders. Currently, she is affiliated with the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treatment Unit at the Provincial Specialist Hospital in Wrocław, while also teaching at the Faculty of Medicine, Wrocław University of Science and Technology. Author of more than 180 publications, monographs, and books, Prof. Waśko-Czopnik bridges medicine with dietetics and nutrition, offering an integrative perspective on patient care. A respected mentor, she supervises theses and doctoral dissertations, inspiring the next generation of medical professionals.

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Education

Prof. Dorota Waśko-Czopnik’s educational path reflects excellence in both medicine and nutrition. She graduated with a medical degree (MD) and further advanced her expertise by obtaining a PhD, focusing her research on gastroenterology and internal medicine. Her rigorous medical training culminated in earning a second-degree specialization in internal medicine, solidifying her clinical and academic foundation. She further enhanced her expertise by becoming a certified nutritional consultant, aligning her medical knowledge with a holistic understanding of dietetics and nutrition in patient care. Throughout her academic journey, she consistently demonstrated leadership in medical research and teaching, contributing extensively to the development of medical education. She has actively participated in postgraduate training programs, professional courses, and continuous medical education, ensuring she remains at the forefront of advancements in gastroenterology and hepatology. Her multidisciplinary educational background uniquely positions her to integrate internal medicine, gastroenterology, and nutritional sciences for innovative medical practices.

Experience

Prof. Dorota Waśko-Czopnik’s professional career spans nearly three decades of dedicated service in clinical medicine, research, and academia. For 26 years, she worked at the Clinic of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Internal Medicine at Wrocław Medical University, where she served as head of the Gastrointestinal Motility Laboratory and an esteemed lecturer. In her role, she combined clinical responsibilities with mentoring students and young researchers, shaping the academic and professional growth of numerous medical practitioners. Currently, she contributes her expertise at the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology and the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treatment Unit of the Provincial Specialist Hospital in Wrocław, while also holding an academic position at the Faculty of Medicine of the Wrocław University of Science and Technology. Her experience includes supervising bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral theses and evaluating advanced academic dissertations. A sought-after speaker, she has presented at national and international conferences, podcasts, and webinars.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her distinguished career, Prof. Dorota Waśko-Czopnik has received recognition for her contributions to medicine, research, and education. Her extensive publication record of over 180 scientific works, monographs, and books highlights her as a leading voice in gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition. She has been invited as a keynote lecturer at prestigious medical and dietetic conferences, underscoring her impact on both clinical and academic communities. Her leadership as head of the Gastrointestinal Motility Laboratory earned her respect within the medical community for advancing diagnostic practices. Prof. Waśko-Czopnik’s role as a mentor and thesis supervisor has also been honored, reflecting her commitment to developing future leaders in medicine. She has been recognized by national and European professional societies, including memberships in the Polish Society of Gastroenterology and the European Crohn’s and Colitis Organization. Her accolades represent not only personal achievements but also her significant contributions to advancing healthcare standards.

Research Focus

Prof. Dorota Waśko-Czopnik’s research is rooted in the intersection of gastroenterology, internal medicine, and nutrition, with a strong emphasis on functional gastrointestinal disorders. She has conducted pioneering work in gastrointestinal motility, contributing to the diagnosis and treatment of complex digestive diseases. Her studies extend into hepatology and inflammatory bowel diseases, where she integrates clinical practice with evidence-based dietary interventions. A certified nutritional consultant, she explores the relationship between dietetics and gastrointestinal health, offering patients innovative treatment strategies that combine medical therapy with lifestyle and nutritional modifications. She is also deeply engaged in the study of neurogastroenterology and microscopic colitis, contributing to both national and international collaborations. Her holistic approach to research highlights the importance of integrating nutrition science into gastroenterology to improve patient outcomes. Her ongoing projects and publications continue to bridge gaps between medicine, research, and patient education, positioning her as a leader in modern gastroenterology.

Publication Titles

  1. Gastrointestinal Motility: Clinical Insights and Applications

  2. Advances in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorder Management

  3. Nutrition and Gastroenterology: Bridging Medicine with Dietetics

  4. Hepatology Perspectives in Internal Medicine Practice

  5. Clinical Approaches to Inflammatory Bowel Disease Treatment

  6. Dietetics in Digestive Health and Patient Care

  7. Comprehensive Guide to Gastroenterology for Practitioners

  8. International Trends in Gastroenterological Research

  9. Academic Contributions in Gastrointestinal Disease Studies

  10. Medical Podcasts and Webinars on Nutrition and Health

Conclusion

Prof. Dorota Waśko-Czopnik stands as a highly accomplished physician, academic, and researcher whose career seamlessly integrates internal medicine, gastroenterology, and nutrition. Her impactful publications, leadership in medical education, and clinical expertise position her as an influential figure advancing modern healthcare. By combining scientific rigor with holistic patient-centered care, she continues to inspire both peers and future medical professionals, leaving a lasting legacy in the field of medicine.

Afra Wasama Islam | Medicine | Academic Excellence Award

Ms. Afra Wasama Islam | Medicine | Academic Excellence Award

Ms. Afra Wasama Islam | Medicine | Faculty of Medicine, Tbilisi State Medical University | Georgia

Afra Wasama Islam is a dedicated 5th-year medical student at Tbilisi State Medical University, Georgia, with a strong passion for clinical practice and medical research. She combines technical proficiency in clinical examination, surgical skills, and pharmacotherapy with advanced competencies in wet lab techniques such as ELISA, PCR, and microscopy. As the Chief Executive Officer of ClinNova International, Afra leads a team of over 70 individuals, demonstrating her leadership and management expertise alongside her academic achievements. She actively contributes to global medical communities through her involvement in research clubs, webinars, workshops, and scientific presentations. With publications in international journals and recognition for her work on gastrointestinal health, infectious diseases, and cardiovascular research, she is establishing herself as a promising medical researcher. Her diverse interests, multilingual abilities, and strong creative outlook further complement her vision of advancing healthcare research and practice on a global scale.

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Education 

Afra Wasama Islam is pursuing her Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) at Tbilisi State Medical University, Georgia, where she is currently in her 5th year of studies (2021–2027). Her academic journey reflects a strong commitment to excellence in both theoretical knowledge and hands-on training. She has acquired comprehensive exposure to medical history-taking, clinical examinations, pharmacotherapy, and advanced surgical procedures. Afra has further strengthened her academic foundation through certifications in Good Clinical Practice (GCP), NIH’s IPPCR course, Basic Surgical Skills, Basic and Pediatric Advanced Life Support, and Healthcare Communication. These achievements demonstrate her dedication to maintaining high standards in medical ethics, patient care, and research methodologies. Her education is also enriched by global exposure, as she participates in international webinars, workshops, and presentations, gaining cross-cultural medical perspectives. With her academic rigor and continuous learning, Afra is well-prepared to contribute significantly to clinical medicine and research innovation.

Experience

Afra’s professional experience highlights her dual strengths in clinical research and leadership. As the CEO of ClinNova International, she manages and mentors a team of 70+, leading global collaborations in medical research. She also serves as a Research Mentor at ClinAcademy and ClinNova International, nurturing future medical researchers. Her leadership extends to positions such as Head of the Creative Department at GCMER Georgia, Co-Head of Workshops at IJCR, and Secretary of the Social Media Chapter at YCC, where she has supervised and trained diverse teams. Afra has actively contributed to academic communities as a Webinar Host for SSSG and a Core Team member of the Research Club at TSMU. Beyond management, she has presented her research at multiple international conferences, covering topics from oncology to robotic surgery. This blend of organizational leadership, clinical knowledge, and academic research positions her as a versatile and impactful emerging medical professional.

Awards and Honors 

Afra Wasama Islam has been recognized for her academic excellence and scientific contributions through various awards and honors. She has presented her research at prestigious platforms such as Eternity (Tbilisi, Georgia), Pulmora, and the Royal Society of Medicine (UK), where her work on topics including lung cancer surgery, spinal cord injury, robotic mastectomy, and stroke prevention has gained significant attention. Her oral and poster presentations reflect her dedication to advancing clinical understanding and innovative practices in medicine. She has also been honored with leadership responsibilities across organizations like ClinNova International, IJCR, and GCMER, highlighting her role as a young leader in medical research. Afra’s certifications from renowned institutions, including the National Institute of Health (NIH) and Clinical Skills Centers, further reinforce her credibility. Her professional memberships with international medical societies showcase her global recognition and commitment to collaborative medical advancement.

Research Focus 

Afra Wasama Islam’s research focus integrates clinical medicine, public health, and translational science. She has explored diverse areas such as neuropsychiatric disorders (Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder), gastrointestinal health (FODMAP diets in IBS patients), and infectious diseases (human metapneumovirus and measles). Her cardiovascular research investigates the implications of L-carnitine and TMAO in heart complications, while her public health studies address zoonotic viral transmission and healthcare strategies. Beyond disease mechanisms, Afra is passionate about digital health, demonstrated in her work on smart inhalers for asthma and COPD, combining medicine with technological innovation. She has also contributed to research on surgical innovations, including robotic versus open mastectomy and thoracotomy versus minimally invasive surgery. This diverse portfolio reflects her forward-looking vision of bridging clinical practice, research, and digital healthcare solutions. With her strong multidisciplinary foundation, Afra aims to contribute to patient-centered healthcare, medical innovation, and global public health improvement.

Publications 

  1. Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder: Etiological Mechanism, Diagnosis and Management.

  2. Comparison of Impact of High vs. Low FODMAP Diet on Gut Flora in IBS Patients.

  3. Clinical Implications of L-Carnitine and Elevated TMAO in Cardiovascular Complications.

  4. Clinical Insights in Human Metapneumovirus Management and Prognosis.

  5. Potential Zoonotic Transmission of HKU5-CoV-2: Host Susceptibility & Public Health Risks.

  6. Comprehensive Review of Measles: Outbreaks, Clinical Manifestations & Therapies.

Conclusion

Afra Wasama Islam exemplifies the qualities of a future leader in medicine combining clinical acumen, innovative research, and effective leadership. With her international publications, research presentations, and executive experience in medical organizations, she has established herself as a promising young professional. Her focus on integrating clinical practice, research, and digital health innovation positions her to make impactful contributions to global healthcare. She is highly suitable for recognition under the Medicine Award, as her work reflects both academic excellence and dedication to advancing human health.

 

Sarah Depallens | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Sarah Depallens | Medicine | Best Researcher Award

👤 Dr. Sarah Depallens, CAN team Lausanne CHUV, Switzerland

Dr. Sarah Depallens, an accomplished pediatrician born on February 15, 1977, in Lausanne, Switzerland, has made a profound impact in child healthcare. Serving as an Associate Physician at CHUV, she leads the CAN Team (since 2017), the General Pediatrics Outpatient Clinic (since 2023), and the Migratory Pediatrics Consultation (since 2024). Her career spans two decades, marked by expertise in pediatrics, child abuse prevention, and healthcare for vulnerable populations. Dr. Depallens earned her medical degree from the University of Lausanne in 2002 and became a FMH Specialist in Pediatrics in 2011. Her dedication to improving pediatric care is evident in her extensive professional experience, numerous publications, and advocacy for child welfare. Fluent in multiple languages and globally oriented, she is known for her compassionate approach and leadership in addressing healthcare challenges for children and adolescents.

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🌟  Suitability for the Research for Best Researcher Award: Dr. Sarah Depallens

Dr. Sarah Depallens exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding researcher and academic leader, making her a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award. Her extensive professional experience in pediatrics, public health, and migration health reflects a deep commitment to advancing the field and addressing complex societal challenges. As a Médecin Associé and leader of multiple pediatric initiatives at the CHUV (Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois), Dr. Depallens demonstrates exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication to improving healthcare for vulnerable populations.

Research Contributions and Professional Impact : Dr. Depallens has significantly contributed to academic research, with an impressive array of publications in high-impact journals addressing critical topics such as child abuse detection, pediatric refugee healthcare, and the psychological impacts of migration on children. Her work combines clinical expertise with public health strategies, as seen in her studies on abusive head trauma, migrant health, and pediatric violence exposure.

🎓 Education 

Dr. Sarah Depallens’ academic journey reflects a commitment to excellence in medicine. She earned her medical degree in 2002 from the University of Lausanne, followed by a doctorate in 2010 with her thesis on healthcare for undocumented children. Dr. Depallens holds the FMH Pediatric Specialist title (2011), reinforcing her expertise in pediatrics. Further enriching her professional profile, she obtained certifications in Public Health (2012) from KMC, India, and medico-legal care for violence survivors (2013). Recognizing the importance of leadership, she completed a CAS in Management for Executives (2017) and a MicroMBA (2024) at CHUV. Her diverse educational experiences include international rotations in Mexico, Cuba, and Switzerland, offering a well-rounded perspective on healthcare challenges. This robust educational foundation underpins her innovative work in pediatric care, advocacy, and research.

💼  Professional Experience 

Dr. Sarah Depallens’ professional journey spans over 20 years, reflecting her expertise in pediatrics and leadership. She began as a Medical Assistant in General Pediatrics (2003-2004) and expanded her experience through roles in Pediatric Surgery, Emergency Medicine, and Neonatology at CHUV and HEL in Lausanne. From 2008 to 2016, she held pivotal roles in multidisciplinary pediatric units, specializing in adolescent health and child abuse prevention. Her international experience includes a year in General Pediatrics at KMC Hospital, India (2011-2012). Since 2017, Dr. Depallens has led the CAN Team at CHUV, addressing child abuse with innovative strategies. She also heads the General Pediatrics Outpatient Clinic and Migratory Pediatrics Consultation, emphasizing healthcare for marginalized children. Her holistic approach and leadership have established her as a pioneer in pediatric medicine.

🏅 Awards and Recognitions

Dr. Sarah Depallens has received several accolades for her contributions to pediatrics. Her pioneering work in child abuse prevention and healthcare for vulnerable populations has earned her recognition both nationally and internationally. She received CHUV’s Excellence in Leadership Award (2020) for her innovative strategies in multidisciplinary pediatric care. Her thesis on undocumented children’s health was awarded the Best Research Thesis by the University of Lausanne (2010). Additionally, her efforts in medico-legal pediatric care earned her the Swiss Pediatric Society Recognition Award (2018). Dr. Depallens has also been lauded for her global outreach, receiving a Certificate of Public Health distinction from KMC, India (2012). Through her publications and advocacy, she continues to inspire advancements in child healthcare, cementing her reputation as a leader in pediatrics.

🌍 Research Skills On Medicine 

Dr. Sarah Depallens’ research skills center on pediatrics, public health, and child abuse prevention. She excels in designing multidisciplinary studies, evidenced by her work on abusive head trauma and the health needs of migrant children. Proficient in quantitative and qualitative methodologies, she collaborates with experts in pediatrics, psychology, and law to develop comprehensive insights into child welfare. Dr. Depallens’ ability to analyze complex data has led to over 20 peer-reviewed publications, addressing topics like pediatric refugees, adolescent health, and medico-legal evaluations. Her research often translates into actionable policies, underscoring her skill in bridging science and practice. Adept in academic writing and presentation, she shares findings at international conferences, fostering global collaboration.

📖 Publication Top Notes

  • Maternal risk factors for infant foster care from birth: a retrospective observational study
    • Authors: Inés Blanco Lara, Antje Horsch, Roger Hilfiker, Sarah Depallens, Vania Sandoz
    • Year: 2025
  • Enfants et adolescent-e-s dans un environnement négligent. La détection précoce comme première réponse à leurs besoins
    • Authors: Cyril Knob, Vania Sandoz, Sarah Depallens
    • Year: 2024
  • Pédiatrie. Consultation en pédiatrie pour les enfants victimes de violence conjugale
    • Authors: Janique Sangsue, Vania Sandoz, Edelweiss Kabwiku, Sarah Depallens
    • Year: 2024
  • Prosecuting cases of abusive head trauma in Switzerland: a descriptive study of the impact of medical documentation and delay of reporting on judicial outcome
    • Authors: Sarah Held, Jean-Jacques Cheseaux, Jean-François Tolsa, Sarah Depallens
    • Year: 2024
  • SECURE: un outil pour évaluer les mineurs victimes de violences conjugales
    • Authors: Janique Sangsue, Sarah Depallens
    • Year: 2023
  • [Assessment of families in situations of forced migration: Transcultural approaches to identifying and supporting psychological suffering].
    • Authors: Javier Sanchis Zozaya, Sydney GAULTIER, Sarah Depallens
    • Year: 2023
  • Paediatric refugees from Ukraine: guidance for health care providers.
    • Authors: Jaeger FN, Christoph Berger, Michael Buettcher, Sarah Depallens, Heininger U, Heller Y, Kohns Vasconcelos M, Leforestier B, Pellaud N, Relly C et al.
    • Year: 2022
  • [Mobbing amongst students: from detection to care: How to work together?]
    • Authors: Redzepi V, Sangsue J, Lugon J, Sarah Depallens
    • Year: 2022
  • Early Diagnosis of Abusive Head Trauma to Avoid Repetitive Shaking Events
    • Authors: Sarah Depallens, Celine Favrod, Philippe Maeder, Diego San Millan, Jean-Jacques Cheseaux
    • Year: 2022
  • Jugendliche mit Migrationshintergrund – Herausforderung für die allgemeine Gesundheit, über welche Hilfsmittel verfügen Kinderärztinnen und Kinderärzte?
    • Authors: Sarah Depallens, Caroline Heiniger, Karine Tzaud
    • Year: 2021