Lina Higueras-Rodriguez | Education | Research Excellence Award

Dr. Lina Higueras-Rodriguez | Education | Research Excellence Award

Permanet lecturer at University of Granada, Spain

Dr. Lina Higueras-Rodríguez is a Permanent Lecturer in the Department of Didactics and School Organization at the University of Granada, holding a PhD in Education with International Mention (Cum Laude) and academic training in Pedagogy, Early Childhood Education, and Psychopedagogical Intervention. Her academic career began with a national FPU predoctoral fellowship, and she has taught at both the University of Almería and the University of Granada. Her research centers on inclusive higher education, faculty professional development, educational leadership, and methodological innovation in contexts of digital transformation. She contributes empirically grounded institutional frameworks that integrate inclusion, accessibility, digital competence, and ethical artificial intelligence, moving beyond fragmented or tool-based approaches. Using mixed-methods research, comparative institutional analysis, and typological modeling, her work identifies structural gaps and training inequities that shape university teaching practices. She is an active member of the FORCE Research Group (HUM-386), participates in national and international research projects and networks such as ISSPP and RILME, serves on editorial boards, and supports evidence-informed policy and responsible innovation in higher education.

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Featured Publications


Classroom Violence and Family Functionality: A Look at the Role of the Aggressor and the Victim

– International Journal of Interdisciplinary Educational Studies, 2025


Inclusive Teaching and Learning of Mathematical Concepts: An Action Research Project in Primary Education

– International Journal of Science, Mathematics and Technology Learning, 2025

 

Nyambane Ontita | Microbiology | Best Research Article Award

Dr. Nyambane Ontita | Microbiology | Best Research Article Award

Central South University, China

Profile

ORCID

🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Nyambane Clive Ontita's academic journey reflects a deep-rooted passion for environmental microbiology and sustainable technologies. He began his undergraduate studies with a Bachelor of Science in Education (Biology/Agriculture) from Bugema University, Uganda, in 2010, which laid a strong foundation in biological sciences and teaching. Driven by a growing curiosity about microbial life, he pursued a Master of Science in Microbiology at Kenyatta University, Kenya, graduating in 2015. His passion for advanced research and problem-solving led him to China, where he is currently completing a Ph.D. in Environmental Microbiology at Central South University (2021–2025), under the mentorship of Prof. Weimin Zeng.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Clive’s professional path is as dynamic as it is impactful. He served as a Part-time Lecturer at Kisii University (2015–2021), where he taught medical microbiology and mentored students in both theory and practical laboratory skills. Simultaneously, he lectured at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) (2016–2021), handling modules in general microbiology and environmental physiology. These roles not only honed his communication and instructional abilities but also solidified his role as a dedicated educator and mentor. Earlier in 2015, he gained hands-on clinical experience as a Graduate Researcher at Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, working on microbial ecology and antibiotic resistance in clinical settings.

🔬 Research Focus and Scientific Contributions

Clive's doctoral research centers on microbial electrochemical strategies for rare earth element (REE) recovery and wastewater treatment, merging microbiology with environmental engineering. He has engineered bioelectrochemical systems (BES) capable of recovering Ce(III), Y(III), Gd(III), and La(III) from contaminated industrial and mining waste streams. His work delves into biofilm dynamics, metal resistance, and biogeochemical transformations, utilizing sophisticated techniques such as XPS, SEM, XRD, and FTIR. Clive also employs 16S rRNA sequencing, qPCR, and PICRUSt for microbial community analysis and functional predictions. His research significantly contributes to the fields of metal recovery, biostabilization, and sustainable waste management, aligning with global environmental sustainability goals.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Clive’s work holds both academic and environmental significance. Through his research, he addresses urgent global challenges such as waste valorization, emerging contaminant degradation, and mine waste reuse. His efforts are shaping innovative solutions that integrate microbial systems into sustainable industrial practices. Recognized for his leadership and innovation, Clive has been honored as the Best Research Student at Central South University (2024) and Best Research Group Presenter (2022)—a testament to his scientific rigor and ability to inspire peers.

📚 Academic Citations and Scholarly Presence

Clive’s scholarly output and impact can be tracked through his profiles on ORCID and Google Scholar, where his contributions to environmental microbiology and bioremediation are gaining citations. His academic footprint continues to grow, reinforcing his influence in both African and international scientific communities.

🧪 Technical Skills and Competence

Clive is proficient in a wide array of advanced laboratory and analytical techniques. His core competencies include DNA extraction, 16S rRNA sequencing, qPCR, and bioinformatics analysis. He is also skilled in instrumental techniques such as ICP-OES, XRD, SEM, XPS, and FTIR, essential for surface and mineral analysis. His expertise in designing and operating BES reactors, coupled with data processing using OriginLab, SPSS, and GraphPad Prism, highlights his interdisciplinary strengths across biology, chemistry, and engineering domains.

👨‍🏫 Teaching and Mentorship

An enthusiastic educator, Clive has spent over six years teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in microbiology. At Kisii University and JKUAT, he supervised student research and practical laboratory sessions, nurturing future scientists in microbial culturing, molecular diagnostics, and environmental analysis. His teaching philosophy is centered on hands-on learning, critical thinking, and real-world applications, which have had a lasting impact on many aspiring microbiologists in Kenya.

🏅 Conferences, Networking & International Exposure

Clive has actively participated in international academic forums, gaining exposure to global innovations and collaborative opportunities. Notably, he attended the Annual International Training Courses (AITC) in Bangkok, Thailand (August 2024), focusing on Carbon Neutrality and Net Zero Emissions. He also presented at the 9th Graduate Innovation Forum on the Low-Carbon Development of Metal Resources at Central South University in 2023. These engagements highlight his commitment to environmental solutions at a global scale.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

Clive envisions a future where microbial technologies transform waste into resources, and he aims to lead research and training initiatives that support sustainable development in Africa and beyond. His interdisciplinary approach uniquely positions him to contribute to policies and technologies for cleaner industries, resource recovery, and bio-inspired material science. As a rising scholar, Clive is set to leave a lasting legacy through innovation, mentorship, and international collaboration.

Selected Publications

Title: Electrochemically active biofilms responses to gadolinium stress during wastewater treatment in bioelectrochemical systems
Authors: Nyambane Clive Ontita, Anaman R., Sarkodie E. K., Wang Y., Bichi A. H., Shanshan X., ... & Zeng W.
Journal: Journal of Hazardous Materials
Year: 2025
Title: Insights into anode substrate optimization in bioelectrochemical systems for efficient cathodic lanthanum recovery during wastewater treatment
Authors: Nyambane Clive Ontita, Emmanuel Konadu Sarkodie, Richmond Anaman, Tang Yun Hui, Weimin Zeng
Journal: Journal of Water Process Engineering
Year: 2024
Title: Substrate-Mediated Enhancement of Bioelectrochemical Systems for Sustainable Rare Earth Element Recovery from Mining Wastewater
Authors: Nyambane Clive Ontita, Richmond Anaman, Charles Amanze, Hyline Nyangweso, Weimin Zeng
Journal: Journal of Water Process Engineering
Year: 2025
Title: Mechanistic Insights into Biphasic Effects of Ce(III) on Anode Biofilms in Bioelectrochemical Systems during Industrial Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Nyambane Clive Ontita, Charles Amanze, Richmond Anaman, Xiao Shanshan, Tang Yun Hui, Felix Kwofie, Pius Abraham Tetteh, Weimin Zeng
Journal: Water, Air, and Soil Pollution
Year: 2025
Title: Isolation and Whole-genome analysis of Desmodesmus sp. SZ-1, a novel acid-tolerant carbon-fixing microalga
Authors: Wang Y., Liu A., Amanze C., Ontita N. C., Zeng W.
Journal: Bioresource Technology
Year: 2024

 

Gergana Marchev | animal nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Gergana Marchev | Animal Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Agricultural Institute - Shumen, Bulgaria

Profile

scopus

orcid

Early Academic Pursuits

Gergana Yordanova Marcheva began her academic journey at Trakia University in Stara Zagora, where she obtained her Master’s degree in Agronomy with a specialization in Livestock Breeding in 2007. This foundation set the stage for her future dedication to the advancement of animal science, particularly in pig breeding and nutrition.

Professional Endeavors

Dr. Marcheva’s career within the Agricultural Academy – Sofia, Agricultural Institute - Shumen has been marked by steady progression. She served as an Assistant Professor until 2023, after which she was promoted to Associate Professor. Additionally, she held the role of Director of the Experimental Base of the Agricultural Institute – Shumen from 2021 to 2024. These positions underscore her leadership, commitment to research, and contribution to applied agricultural practices.

Contributions and Research Focus

Her primary area of research is Livestock Breeding (6.3), with a strong emphasis on Pig Breeding and Pig Nutrition. Her research delves into the impacts of dietary changes on pig health and performance, including studies on low-protein intake, feed restriction, brewer's yeast supplementation, and the use of activated charcoal. Her expertise bridges both experimental fieldwork and theoretical frameworks aimed at enhancing animal welfare and productivity.

International Collaborations and Scientific Engagement

Dr. Marcheva is actively involved in collaborative efforts and maintains scientific affiliations. She is a member of the Association for Breeding the Black Pied Breed in Bulgaria since 2014. Although specific international collaborations are not listed, her publication record suggests engagement with a network of scientists across Eastern Europe and beyond.

Impact and Influence

With 49 scientific publications, including 8 in journals with an impact factor, Dr. Marcheva has contributed significant findings to her field. She has received 49 citations overall, with 37 citations in the last five years, reflecting increasing recognition of her work. Her Web of Science H-index is 1, and her research is cataloged under multiple platforms:

Academic Cites – Selected Publications

  1. The Effects of a Low Protein Intake on the Growth and Blood Parameters of Weaning PigsAnimal Science Papers and Reports, 2024.

  2. Effect of Feed Restriction and Low Protein Level on the Performance of Growing PigsTrakia Journal of Sciences, 2023.

  3. Effect of the Use of Autolyzed Brewer’s Yeast in Compound Feeds for Weaned PigsЖивотновъдни науки, 2023.

  4. Effect of Addition of Activated Charcoal on the Nutrient Digestibility in Fattening PigsЖивотновъдни науки, 2022.

  5. Effect of Activated Charcoal on Blood Parameters in Fattening PigsЖивотновъдни науки, 2022.

  6. Spirulina Supplementation Affects Folliculogenesis in GiltsJournal of Applied Phycology, 2018.

Technical and Research Skills

Dr. Marcheva’s technical strengths lie in experimental animal feeding trials, nutrient analysis, and physiological parameter assessments. She has experience designing controlled studies and evaluating the influence of biologically active supplements and alternative nutritional strategies on animal growth and welfare.

Teaching and Leadership Experience

As part of her academic role, she likely contributes to mentorship, seminars, and practical training for students and junior researchers, especially within the Agricultural Institute – Shumen. Her tenure as Director of the Experimental Base highlights her administrative capabilities and oversight of experimental design and animal husbandry protocols.

Research Projects and Funding Participation

In the last five years, she has participated in several funded projects:

  • Ж - 182 (2023–2025): Forecasting productivity through heterozygosity and nutritional influence (Coordinator: Prof. DSc. Radka Nedeva) – Running.

  • Ж - 162 (2022): Genetic diversity and biologically active feeding (Coordinators: Prof. Apostolov & Prof. Nedeva) – Completed.

  • Ж - 132 (2017–2019): Animal selection methods focused on physiology and welfare (Coordinators: Prof. Apostolov & Prof. Nedeva) – Completed.

Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Gergana Yordanova Marcheva’s contributions to animal nutrition and livestock breeding research are crucial for the modernization of agricultural practices in Bulgaria and Eastern Europe. Her work supports not only improved productivity in farm animals but also aligns with evolving global standards for animal welfare and sustainable farming. Her continuing role in research, leadership, and education ensures that her influence will extend well into the future.

 Selected Publication

  • Title: Effect of herbal supplements (Nettle and rosehip) on the sperm quality in Danube White breed boars
    Authors: Gergana Yordanova, Danail Kanev, Yordan Marchev, Radka Nedeva, Todorka Nikolova, Nadezhda Palova
    Journal: Bulgarian Journal of Agricultural Science
    Year: 2020

  • Title: Effect of the addition of Spirulina platensis on the carcass traits, chemical composition and physical characteristics of M. Longissimus dorsi in fattening pigs
    Authors: Gergana Yordanova, Jordan Nakev, Radka Nedeva, Yordan Marchev, Teodora Popova, Elena Kistanova, Almantas Simkus
    Journal: Bulgarian Journal of Agricultural Science
    Year: 2016

  • Title: Lipid profile of M. Longissimus dorsi in response to dietary Spirulina platensis supplementation in pigs
    Authors: Gergana Yordanova, Teodora Popova, Jordan Nakev, Radka Nedeva, Yordan Marchev, Elena Kistanova, Almantas Shimkus
    Journal: Bulgarian Journal of Agricultural Science
    Year: 2015

Prof. Dr. Maria Helena Pimentel | Nursing Education | Outstanding Contribution Award

Prof. Dr. Maria Helena Pimentel | Nursing Education | Outstanding Contribution Award

Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Portugal.

Maria Helena Pimentel is a distinguished Professor Coordinator at the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança (IPB), Portugal, specializing in Nursing and Health Sciences. With decades of experience in academia and healthcare, she has contributed significantly to research in sociology, nursing education, and public health. Her leadership roles in the IPB, including serving as Director of the School of Health, demonstrate her commitment to advancing higher education and healthcare training.

Profile

Orcid

🎓 Education

Prof. Dr. Maria Helena Pimentel holds a Ph.D. in Sociology (2011) from the University of Minho, Portugal, with a thesis on "Lifestyle and Health: The Daily Life of Students at the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança." She earned a Master’s in Nursing Sciences (1999) from the University of Porto, focusing on "Nursing Students’ Perceptions of the Profession." Additionally, she completed a Postgraduate Specialization in Child and Pediatric Health Nursing (1993) at the Coimbra School of Nursing and obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Nursing (1985) from the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança, Portugal.

👩‍🏫 Professional Experience

Prof. Dr. Maria Helena Pimentel is a Professor Coordinator (2012–present) at the Polytechnic Institute of Bragança, Portugal, where she previously served as an Adjunct Professor (2000–2012) and an Assistant Professor (1993–2000). Before her academic career, she worked as a Nurse (1986–1989) at the Bragança Hospital Unit, Portugal.

🔬 Research Interests

Maria Helena Pimentel's research focuses on:

Nursing Education and Training

Public Health and Healthcare Systems

Sociology of Health and Well-being

Lifestyle and Student Health

🏆 Awards & Leadership Roles

Director of the School of Health – IPB (2009–2017)

President of the Scientific and Pedagogical Council – IPB (2009–2017)

Member of the Scientific Council of IPB (2017–Present)

International Collaborations through Erasmus Programs (Spain, France, Portugal)

📚 Selected Publications

"Consumption of Major Psychoactive Substances During the COVID-19 Pandemic Among Higher Education Students", Revista de Enfermagem Referência (2023). DOI: 10.12707/RVI22031

"Local Health Unit: A Vertical Integration Model of Healthcare", Revista de Enfermagem Referência (2022). DOI: 10.12707/RV21061

"Human Work on the Frontline of the Pandemic: Socio-Health Assistance", Lex Social: Revista de Derechos Sociales (2021). DOI: 10.46661/lexsocial.5972

"Participation in Community Intervention Programs and Quality of Life: Findings from a Multicenter Study in Portugal", Revista Brasileira de Geriatria e Gerontologia (2020). DOI: 10.1590/1981-22562020023.190017

"Social Benefits in Portuguese Public Higher Education Over the Last Four Decades", AULA (2017). DOI: 10.14201/aula201723

 

 

 

 

Dr. Cyril Ugwuogor | Functional Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Cyril Ugwuogor | Functional Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Madonna University Nigeria Elele, Nigeria.

Prof. Ugwuogor Cyril Ifeanyichukwu is a distinguished mathematician and researcher specializing in Functional Analysis and Fixed Point Theory. With a strong academic background and extensive teaching experience, he has made remarkable contributions to mathematical optimization, iterative processes, and nonlinear analysis. Currently serving as a Lecturer at Madonna University Nigeria, he has also participated in various international conferences and published impactful research in renowned journals.

Profile

Orcid

Education 🎓

Prof. Cyril Ugwuogor has pursued his academic journey across Nigeria’s top institutions, specializing in Mathematics. He earned his Ph.D. in Mathematics (Functional Analysis) from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, in 2024. Prior to that, he obtained an M.Sc. in Mathematics (Functional Analysis) from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in 2017, where he had also completed his B.Sc. in Mathematics in 2006. His foundational education includes the Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) in 2000 and the First School Leaving Certificate in 1993.

Experience 👨‍🏫

With over a decade of experience in academia, Prof. Cyril Ugwuogor has held multiple teaching and administrative roles across various institutions. Since 2018, he has served as a Lecturer II at Madonna University Nigeria, where he teaches and mentors students in mathematics. He has also contributed as a Mathematics Tutor for JUPEB Mathematics Courses, helping to prepare students for higher education. From 2009 to 2012, he worked as a Postgraduate Demonstrator at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, assisting in advanced mathematics instruction. Additionally, he held leadership positions as the Head of School and Head of the Mathematics Department at Doyen Academy School between 2014 and 2018. His early teaching experience includes serving as an NYSC Mathematics Teacher at Community Secondary School, Moriki, Zamfara State, from 2007 to 2008.

Research Interests 🔬

Prof. Ugwuogor’s research focuses on:
Fixed Point Theory & Functional Analysis – Exploring iterative processes and convergence theorems.
Mathematical Optimization – Developing novel methods for solving nonlinear equations.
Fractional Differential Equations – Application of Caputo-type fractional equations in Banach spaces.
Nonlinear Analysis & Operator Theory – Investigating stability and computational approaches.

Awards & Recognitions 🏆

🏅 Young Mathematician Award – Nigerian Mathematical Society
🏅 Best Paper Presentation Award – Mathematical Analysis and Optimization Research Group (MANORG)
🏅 Research Excellence Award – Madonna University Nigeria

Notable Publications 📚

Prof. Ugwuogor has published extensively in internationally recognized journals. Here are some of his key papers:

1️⃣ Strong convergence theorems for equilibrium problems and fixed points of asymptotically nonexpansive map

Nigerian Mathematical Society Journal (2014, Vol. 33, p.77)

2️⃣ Iterative construction of the fixed point of Suzuki’s generalized nonexpansive mappings in Banach spaces

Fixed Point Theory Journal (2022, No. 2, 633-652) DOI: 10.24193/fpt-ro.2022.2.13

3️⃣ Convergence analysis of a new implicit iteration process for asymptotically nonexpansive mappings in Banach spaces

The Journal of Analysis DOI: 10.1007/s41478-022-00520-z

4️⃣ A novel fixed point iteration process applied in solving the Caputo type fractional differential equations in Banach spaces

International Journal of Modern Physics C DOI: 10.1142/S0129183124501766

5️⃣ Approximation of the fixed point of multivalued mapping in Banach spaces with applications

Mathematics (MDPI) (2025, Vol. 13, Issue 739) DOI: 10.3390/math13050739

 

 

Dr. Amy Miner Ross | Immunology | Best Innovation Award

Dr. Amy Miner Ross | Immunology | Best Innovation Award

OHSU, United States.

Dr. Amy Miner Ross, Ph.D., R.N., C.N.S., is an esteemed nursing scholar and educator at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) School of Nursing. With a rich background in neuroscience nursing, critical care, and health systems leadership, she has significantly contributed to research on inflammatory response in stroke/TIA and work environments in nursing. Over the years, Dr. Ross has received multiple prestigious awards, served in key academic leadership roles, and has been an advocate for evidence-based nursing practice and education.

Profile

Scopus
Google Scholar

📚 Education

Dr. Amy Miner Ross holds a Ph.D. in Nursing from Oregon Health & Science University (2006), where her research focused on the inflammatory response in stroke and transient ischemic attacks (TIA). She earned an M.S. in Nursing from the University of California, San Francisco (1987), specializing in Physiological Nursing and Physiology. Her academic foundation includes a B.S. in Nursing from the University of San Francisco (1978) and an A.S. in Science from City College of San Francisco (1974). With a strong background in nursing education and research, Dr. Ross has made significant contributions to the understanding of physiological responses in critical health conditions.

👩‍🏫 Professional Experience

Dr. Amy Miner Ross is an Associate Professor at the Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) School of Nursing, where she has been a faculty member since 2006. She has held various leadership roles, including Interim Director of the Doctor of Philosophy Program (2020–2022) and Director of Health Systems & Organizational Leadership (2014–2024). From 2006 to 2012, she was also a faculty member in the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program.

Beyond academia, Dr. Ross has extensive clinical and research experience. She served as a Research Consultant & Director of Professional Development at Asante Health System (2005–2008) and worked as a Neuroscience Clinical Nurse Specialist at Rogue Valley Medical Center (2003–2006). Earlier in her career, she was a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Neurosurgery Research at the University of California, San Francisco (1983–1989), contributing to advancements in neurosurgical care and research.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Ross's research focuses on:

Inflammatory response in stroke/TIA

Peripheral immune response trajectories in stroke patients

Work environments & nursing care quality

Health systems leadership & nursing education

She has been involved in NIH-funded research and has received grants for projects investigating stroke immunology, healthcare environments, and virtual reality applications in nursing.

🏆 Awards & Honors

OHSU SON Excellence in Teaching Award (2023)

OHSU Graduate Faculty Recognition Award (2023, 2016)

FLAME Award – Faculty Mentor Nominee (2023)

Sakai Inclusivity Award – OHSU Teaching Learning Center (2022)

Top Downloaded Paper Award – Journal of Nursing Scholarship (2018-2019)

Neuroscience Nursing Foundation New Investigator Award (2013)

Pan American Games Gold Medalist – Synchronized Swimming (1971)

📄 Selected Publications

Liu, J., You, L., Zheng, J., Ross, A.M., & Liu, K. (2016). Effects of work environments on the quality of care in ICUs: a multisite study in China. Journal of Nursing Care Quality. PMID: 26796973 [Cited 25 times]

Ross, A. M., Lee, C. S., & Lutsep, H. (2015). Influence of Gender and Age on the Peripheral Immune Response in Stroke. Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing. PMID: 25774839 [Cited 6 times]

Ross, A. M. & Lee, C. S. (2015). Description and identification of the peripheral immune response trajectories over time in first-time & recurrent stroke/TIA. Journal of Neuroscience Nursing, 47(5), 256-262. PMID: 26236950 [Cited 3 times]

Li, K., Yan, T., You, L., Li, R., & Ross, A. M. (2015). International classification of functioning, disability and health categories for spinal cord injury nursing in China. Disability and Rehabilitation, 37(1), 25-32. PMID: 24564326 [Cited 15 times]

 

 

 

Mr. José Cidade | Education | Best Researcher Award

Mr. José Cidade | Education | Best Researcher Award

CIIE - Center for Educational Research and Intervention, Portugal.

José Manuel Cidade Filipe da Silva is a dedicated PhD Fellow at the Centre for Research and Intervention in Education (CIIE), University of Porto. As a doctoral candidate in the Doctoral Program in Education Sciences at the Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences (FPCEUP), he is currently supported by a PhD Scholarship from the National Public Agency for Science, Technology, and Innovation (FCT, IP). José holds a graduate degree in Music Conducting and a Master’s in Ensemble Music Teaching, blending his academic expertise with a passion for musical performance, including choral and orchestral conducting and wind band music. His research highlights the role of civil wind bands in non-formal education, contributing significantly to the field of educational sciences.

Profile

Orcid

Education 🎓

José Manuel Cidade Filipe da Silva's academic journey began with a graduate degree in Music Conducting, followed by a Master’s in Ensemble Music Teaching, both of which solidified his understanding of music and its pedagogical applications. Currently pursuing his PhD in Education Sciences at University of Porto, he is part of a dynamic research environment focused on advancing knowledge in non-formal and informal education.

Experience 💼

José has significant experience in both academic research and musical practice. Alongside his doctoral studies, he has been actively engaged in music performance, particularly in choral and orchestral conducting. His musical journey also includes performing as a wind band musician. José has participated in several national and international scientific events, contributing to discussions and advancements in music education. His broad involvement in both academia and performance has enriched his understanding of music’s role in community development and lifelong learning.

Research Interests 🔬

José’s research primarily focuses on the educational role of civil wind bands within non-formal and informal education. He explores how these musical communities provide an alternative form of learning outside traditional school settings.

Lifelong Learning and Cultural Enrichment

One of the key aspects of his research is understanding how civil wind bands contribute to lifelong learning. José is particularly interested in how participation in these bands encourages personal development, cultural exchange, and skill-building over time, regardless of the participants' age or background.

Social Cohesion through Music

José’s work also delves into how wind bands foster social cohesion. He examines the role these musical groups play in bringing diverse community members together, promoting inclusivity, and strengthening social bonds through shared musical experiences.

Perceptions of Educational Experiences

His research investigates how participants in civil wind bands perceive their educational experiences. By analyzing their reflections and feedback, José seeks to understand the transformative impacts of participating in these bands, including enhanced self-expression and the development of soft skills.

Impact on Local Cultural Ecologies and Community Engagement

José's research emphasizes how these bands influence local cultural ecologies. By looking at the long-term effects of wind band participation, he explores how these groups contribute to preserving local musical traditions while fostering a sense of community engagement.

Development of Skills in Non-Traditional Learning Environments

Finally, his work highlights the skill development that occurs within civil wind bands, especially in non-traditional learning environments. José studies how these communities serve as spaces for artistic expression, personal growth, and the acquisition of both musical and life skills, all outside the formal education system.

Awards 🏆

PhD Scholarship: Received from the National Public Agency for Science, Technology and Innovation (FCT, IP), recognizing his exceptional academic potential.

National and International Recognition: Acknowledged for his research in music education at various scientific events.

Publications: His work has been published and cited in national and international journals, contributing significantly to the field of non-formal education and music.

Academic Contribution: José’s research on the educational impact of civil wind bands has garnered attention for its potential to enrich community engagement and lifelong learning.

Selected Publications 📖

Motivation for Participation in Civil Wind Bands: Contributions for Non-Formal Educational Contexts

Journal: Education Sciences, 2025-02-02

Civil Wind Bands Beyond Music Education: A Scoping Review (2010-2021)

Journal: RECIEM, 2024-10-11

Portuguese Wind Bands: Sketching Their Socio-Educational Profiles

Conference: 27th International Wind Music Conference, 2024-07-01

Portuguese Civil Wind Bands: An Approach to Their Educational Values

Conference: 4ª Conferência Internacional Emoções, Artes e Intervenção, 2024-04-19

 

 

 

Dr. Juan S. Barajas-Gamboa | Obesity Surgery | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Juan S. Barajas-Gamboa | Obesity Surgery | Best Researcher Award

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Juan S. Barajas-Gamboa is an accomplished Adjunct Clinical Professor of Surgery and Research Scholar with over 15 years of expertise in academic medicine, medical education, and strategic program development. His work spans clinical research, innovative teaching, and securing significant research funding. Passionate about fostering global research collaborations and mentoring future medical professionals, he has contributed extensively to medical education and research advancements in the Middle East and beyond.

Profile

Scopus

Education 🎓

Dr. Juan S. Barajas-Gamboa began his academic journey at Colegio La Salle in Bucaramanga, Colombia, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology in November 2002. Pursuing his passion for medicine, he completed a medical internship at the Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira, Hospital Universitario San Jorge, Colombia, in July 2009. Shortly thereafter, he further enriched his clinical experience by undertaking a medical internship at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) in June 2010. He earned his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree in Medicine and Surgery from the Universidad Autónoma de Bucaramanga, Colombia, in July 2010. Following this, Dr. Barajas-Gamboa advanced his research career as a Postdoctoral Fellow in Translational and Clinical Research at UCSD, completing the program in December 2011, and continued as a Postdoctoral Fellow in Clinical Research at the same institution until July 2013.

Experience 🩺

Dr. Juan S. Barajas-Gamboa currently serves as an Adjunct Clinical Professor of Surgery at Khalifa University, UAE (2021–Present), where he focuses on developing research-driven curricula, mentoring faculty, and promoting research excellence. Since 2018, he has also been a Research Scholar at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, UAE, where he leads groundbreaking research in bariatric surgery, metabolic disorders, and personalized medicine, having successfully secured over $1.3 million in research grants. Between 2010 and 2018, Dr. Barajas-Gamboa held various research and teaching positions at institutions including UCSD and Universidad Industrial de Santander, concentrating on clinical and translational research to advance medical knowledge and practice.

Research Interests 🔬

Minimally invasive and robotic surgery

Bariatric and metabolic surgery

Surgical oncology

Precision medicine and patient-specific treatments

Innovations in medical education

Awards & Honors 🏆

2023: Research Scholar of the Year, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi

2022: IFSO MENAC Research Scholarship, Saudi Arabia

2021: Best Abstract, Emirates Diabetes and Endocrine Congress, UAE

2009: Honorary Mention, UNAB School of Medicine

2003: Scholarship for Best Results in ICFES Examination, UNAB, Colombia

Selected Publications 📚

Conversion of One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass to Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass: Mid-Term Results from the United Arab Emirates

Authors: Alshamsi, A., Barajas-Gamboa, J.S., Piechowska-Jóźwiak, M.I., Kroh, M., Rodriguez, J.

Journal: Surgical Endoscopy, 2025, 39(1), pp. 417–424, e13314.

Focuses on outcomes of surgical conversion procedures in bariatric patients in the UAE.

Impact of the COVID-19 Lockdown on Primary Bariatric Surgery: A Comparative Study of Weight Loss Trajectories and Perioperative Outcomes

Authors: Barajas-Gamboa, J.S., Khan, M.S.I., Romero-Velez, G., Kroh, M., Rodriguez, J.H.

Journal: Journal of Laparoendoscopic and Advanced Surgical Techniques, 2024, 34(12), pp. 1107–1110.

Analyzes the effects of the pandemic on bariatric surgical outcomes and weight-loss progress.

Management of Abdominal Wall Hernias in Bariatric Patients: A Narrative Review

Authors: Restrepo-Rodas, G., Barajas-Gamboa, J.S., Fuentes, J.L.G., Vargas-Cordova, R., Guerrón, A.D.

Journal: Annals of Laparoscopic and Endoscopic Surgery, 2024, 9.

Explores surgical management strategies for abdominal wall hernias in patients undergoing bariatric surgery.

Diastasis Recti with Concomitant Ventral Hernia Repair: An Initial Experience in the United Arab Emirates Population

Authors: Guerron, A.D., Restrepo-Rodas, G., Barajas-Gamboa, J.S., Cherubino, M., Rodriguez, J.

Journal: Journal of Laparoendoscopic and Advanced Surgical Techniques, 2024, 34(10), pp. 904–909.

Reports on the outcomes of managing diastasis recti alongside hernia repair in UAE patients.

Pain Assessment and Analgesic Requirements after Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Comparison Study of Robotic versus Laparoscopic Approaches

Authors: Barajas-Gamboa, J.S., Ihsan Khan, M.S., Mocanu, V., Kroh, M., Corcelles, R.

Journal: Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2024, 13(17), 5168.

Compares pain management outcomes between robotic and laparoscopic techniques in sleeve gastrectomy.