Christianah Ibironke Odita | Epidemiology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Christianah Ibironke Odita | Epidemiology | Best Researcher Award 

Research Officer | National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom | Nigeria

Dr. Christianah Ibironke Odita is a distinguished Chief Veterinary Research Officer and Head of the Division of Veterinary Public Health and Preventive Medicine at the National Veterinary Research Institute (NVRI), Vom, Nigeria. She holds a Ph.D. in Veterinary Science from the University of Pretoria, South Africa, an M.Sc. in Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health from the Royal Veterinary College, University of London, and a Master of Veterinary Public Health (MVPH) as well as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria. Her research focuses on the epidemiology and control of infectious and zoonotic diseases, particularly at the human–animal interface, with specialization in disease surveillance, risk modeling, outbreak investigation, and preventive medicine. Dr. Odita has authored and co-authored several impactful publications in reputed journals, including Vaccine, One Health Outlook, Nigerian Veterinary Journal, and Open Veterinary Journal. Her scholarly contributions span critical studies on rabies, avian influenza, anthrax, and antimicrobial resistance in poultry, emphasizing evidence-based strategies for public health policy and disease prevention. She is a Commonwealth Scholar and a recipient of the Epix Analytics One Risk Course Awards for excellence in report writing and presentation, as well as the NVRI Research Grant Award. Dr. Odita continues to contribute to advancing veterinary epidemiology and public health through research, mentorship, and active engagement in collaborative One Health initiatives across Africa. She has 7 citations from 4 documents with an h-index of 2.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Akanbi, O. B., Alaka, O. O., Olaifa, O. S., Meseko, C. A., Inuwa, B., Ohore, O. G., Tijani, M., Jarikre, T., Ola, O., & Odita, C., et al. (2024). Pathology and molecular detection of influenza A subtype H9N2 virus in commercial poultry in Nigeria. Open Veterinary Journal.

2. Odita, C. I., Conan, A., Smith-Antony, M., Battice, J., England, S., Barry, D., Gessner, B. D., & Knobel, D. L. (2022). Non-specific effects of rabies vaccine on the incidence of self-reported common infectious disease episodes: A randomized controlled trial. Vaccine.

3. Knobel, D., Odita, C. I., Conan, A., Barry, D., Smith-Anthony, M., Battice, J., England, S., & Gessner, B. D. (2020). Non-specific effects of rabies vaccine on the incidence of common infectious disease episodes: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial. Trials.

4. Odita, C. I., Conan, A., Barry, D., Smith-Antony, M., Battice, J., England, S., Gessner, B. D., & Knobel, D. (2020). Non-specific effects of rabies vaccine on the incidence of common infectious disease episodes: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

Eze Ajaegbu | Infectious Diseases | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Eze Ajaegbu | Infectious Diseases | Best Researcher Award 

Senior Lecturer | David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences | Nigeria

Dr. Eze Elijah Ajaegbue is a distinguished researcher currently serving as a Researcher on Vector Control and Cancer at David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Nigeria. He earned his B.Sc. in Clinical Medicine from Anambra State University, Uli, and has further enhanced his expertise with a six-month Data Science course at PORA Academy, Nigeria, complementing his strong foundation in biomedical research. Dr. Ajaegbue’s research primarily focuses on vector-borne disease control, cancer biology, and diabetes-related studies, integrating epidemiology, nutrition, and translational health sciences. Over the years, he has contributed to numerous peer-reviewed publications exploring the mechanisms of disease transmission, preventive interventions, and innovative strategies to improve patient outcomes. His dedication to scientific excellence has earned him multiple awards and recognitions for research innovation and community impact, reflecting his commitment to both academic and public health advancement. Beyond his research, Dr. Ajaegbue plays an active role in editorial and peer-review capacities for several scientific journals, ensuring the dissemination of high-quality research in his field. His work is further distinguished by extensive community engagement, where he has led programs in schools, hospitals, and local organizations to promote academic development, nutrition awareness, and health education. With a unique blend of rigorous scientific inquiry, data-driven research approaches, and strong mentorship, Dr. Ajaegbue continues to make significant contributions to health research, vector control, and community well-being, positioning himself as a leading figure in advancing public health initiatives in Nigeria and beyond. He has 54 citations from 13 documents with an h-index of 4.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus

Featured Publications

1. Ajaegbu, E. E., Danga, S. P. Y., Chijoke, I. U., & Okoye, F. B. C. (2016). Mosquito adulticidal activity of the leaf extracts of Spondias mombin L. against Aedes aegypti L. and isolation of active principles. Journal of Vector Borne Diseases.

2. Osonwa, U. E., Ugochukwu, J. I., Ajaegbu, E. E., Chukwu, K. I., Azevedo, R. B., et al. (2017). Enhancement of antibacterial activity of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride by complexation with sodium cholate. Bulletin of Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University.

3. Eze, E. A., Danga, S. P. Y., & Okoye, F. B. C. (2014). Larvicidal activity of the leaf extracts of Spondias mombin Linn. (Anacardiaceae) from various solvents against malarial, dengue and filarial vector mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae). Journal of Vector Borne Diseases.

4. Lame, Y., Nukenine, E. N., Pierre, D. Y. S., Elijah, A. E., & Esimone, C. O. (2015). Laboratory evaluations of the fractions efficacy of Annona senegalensis (Annonaceae) leaf extract on immature stage development of malarial and filarial mosquito vectors. Journal of Arthropod-Borne Diseases.

5. Victor, C., Moses, O., Eze, A., Festus, O., & Charles, E. (2018). Isolation, identification, and evaluation of biological activities of Daldinia eschscholtzii, an endophytic fungus isolated from the leaves of Musa paradisiaca. GSC Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Mohamed Abouelkhair | Public Health | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Mohamed Abouelkhair | Public Health | Best Researcher Award

Associate professor | Rowan University | United States

Dr. Mohamed Adel Salaheldin Abouelkhair, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVM (Virology and Immunology), is an Associate Professor of Virology and Clinical Immunology at the Shreiber School of Veterinary Medicine, Rowan University, New Jersey. He earned his Bachelor of Veterinary Science and Master of Science in Veterinary Infectious Diseases from the University of Sadat City, Egypt, followed by a PhD in Comparative and Experimental Medicine from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he also completed his postdoctoral research. Dr. Abouelkhair’s research spans veterinary and comparative immunology, viral pathogenesis, infectious disease diagnostics, microbial vaccines, and host-pathogen interactions, with particular focus on immunological mechanisms in companion animals and translational models for human health. He has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed publications, book chapters, and has contributed to advancing molecular diagnostics and immunological assays used in veterinary medicine. His scholarly impact is reflected in multiple prestigious honors, including the Peggy Cotter Award for Outstanding Early Career Researcher from the American Society for Microbiology (ASM), the ASM Future Leaders Mentorship Fellowship, the Zoetis Distinguished Veterinary Teacher Award nomination, and recognition at the University of Tennessee Research Foundation awards for a U.S. patent on Staphylococcus pseudintermedius virulence factors. Additionally, he has been awarded multiple Scholarships of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) projects and the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Visiting Faculty Travel Grant. Beyond research, Dr. Abouelkhair actively serves the scientific community as Chair of the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists Graduate Student Awards Committee and contributes as a reviewer and editorial board member for leading scientific journals in microbiology, immunology, and virology.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Elaadli, H., Badr, Y., Raouf, M., Kania, S. A., Elsakhawy, O. K., Altaib, H., & Abouelkhair, M. A. (2025). Isolation and molecular characterization of three Staphylococcus pseudintermedius strains from dogs and humans in Egypt. Current Microbiology. Advance online publication.

2. Elsakhawy, O. K., & Abouelkhair, M. A. (2025). Genome mining reveals a sactipeptide biosynthetic cluster in Staphylococcus pseudintermedius.

3. Elsakhawy, O. K., Roozitalab, A., Abouelkhair, M. A., & Roux, S. (2025). Genome sequence of a bovine respiratory syncytial virus strain from a cow in Tennessee. Microbiology Resource Announcements.

4. Elsakhawy, O. K., Roozitalab, A., Abouelkhair, M. A., & Matthijnssens, J. (2025). Genome sequence of a Tetraparvovirus ungulate 1 strain from a cow in Tennessee, USA. Microbiology Resource Announcements.

5. Baker, E., Rich, S. M., Dennis, M., Miller, D., Su, C., Rosypal von Dohlen, A., Abouelkhair, M. A., Hamer, S. A., Jensen, A., & Gerhold, R. (2025). Pathology and parasitology of free-ranging coyotes from Tennessee and South Carolina.

Dachasa Dabalo | Public Health | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Dachasa Dabalo | Public Health | Best Researcher Award

Expert at Ethiopian Health Insurance Services, Ethiopia

Mr. Dachasa Dabalo is a dedicated healthcare professional and researcher with notable contributions in public health, clinical practice, and academic teaching. His research has addressed pressing health challenges such as lifestyle modification in hypertensive patients and food insecurity among HIV-positive populations, reflecting a strong commitment to evidence-based solutions for community health improvement. With extensive experience in nursing, public health services, and quality assurance, he has successfully combined practical expertise with scholarly inquiry, demonstrating both leadership and innovation in healthcare delivery. His proficiency in statistical analysis, data management, and scientific writing has further strengthened his ability to produce impactful research that informs policy and practice. While expanding publications in high-impact journals and engaging in international collaborations would enhance his global visibility, his current achievements highlight a well-rounded researcher whose work bridges clinical, academic, and public health domains. These qualities make him a strong and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile

Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile 

Education

Mr. Dachasa Dabalo has built a strong academic foundation that supports his professional and research achievements in the health sciences. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, which equipped him with comprehensive knowledge of clinical care, patient management, and nursing principles, forming the basis of his early career in healthcare services. To further strengthen his expertise, he pursued a Master of Science in Public Health, where he deepened his understanding of epidemiology, disease prevention, health promotion, and research methodologies. This advanced training enabled him to bridge the gap between clinical practice and public health research, focusing on areas such as chronic disease management, nutrition, and healthcare equity. Throughout his education, he developed strong analytical, teaching, and data management skills, supported by proficiency in statistical software and research tools. His academic journey reflects a continuous pursuit of excellence, preparing him to contribute meaningfully to both national health systems and global research.

Experience

Mr. Dachasa Dabalo has extensive professional experience spanning clinical care, academic teaching, public health research, and health system strengthening. He began his career as a health practitioner, where he coordinated health extension programs, improved child health services, and enhanced nutrition interventions, demonstrating his commitment to community health improvement. As a senior clinician, he provided comprehensive nursing care, emergency support, and patient counseling, while also contributing to service quality improvement and student mentorship. His academic role as a university lecturer allowed him to share knowledge, guide students, and conduct research relevant to national health priorities. Currently, as a Strategic Health Service Purchasing and Quality Assurance Expert at the Ethiopian Health Insurance Agency, he plays a key role in monitoring healthcare quality, strengthening service delivery, and supporting health financing reforms. This diverse professional background highlights his ability to integrate practice, research, and policy, showcasing a career dedicated to advancing healthcare outcomes.

Research Interest

Mr. Dachasa Dabalo’s research interests lie at the intersection of clinical care, public health, and health systems improvement, with a strong focus on addressing critical challenges that impact community well-being. He is particularly interested in lifestyle modification practices for chronic disease management, food insecurity among vulnerable populations, and the social and behavioral factors influencing health outcomes. His work also extends to quality assurance in healthcare delivery, exploring strategies to strengthen health service purchasing, provider performance monitoring, and equitable access to care. With a background in both nursing and public health, he brings a multidisciplinary perspective that bridges patient-centered care and population-level interventions. He is also keen on advancing research in nutrition, communicable and non-communicable diseases, and health policy implementation. By integrating data-driven approaches, statistical analysis, and evidence-based practice, his research aims to inform policy, guide effective interventions, and contribute to sustainable improvements in national and global health systems.

Award and Honor

Mr. Dachasa Dabalo has earned recognition for his dedication to healthcare service, teaching, and research, which reflect his commitment to advancing public health and clinical excellence. His publication on lifestyle modification among hypertensive patients and food insecurity among HIV-positive individuals demonstrates his ability to conduct impactful research that addresses pressing health challenges, earning appreciation within academic and professional circles. In his role as a lecturer, he was acknowledged for his contribution to student learning, mentorship, and knowledge dissemination in the field of nursing and public health. His leadership in quality assurance and strategic health service purchasing at the Ethiopian Health Insurance Agency also highlights his role in strengthening healthcare systems and improving patient care delivery. While formal international awards and honors may continue to grow as his career progresses, his achievements to date reflect merit, dedication, and impact—qualities that make him a strong candidate for prestigious recognitions and awards.

Research Skill

Mr. Dachasa Dabalo possesses strong research skills that integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application in public health and clinical sciences. He is proficient in designing and conducting studies, from developing research proposals to implementing data collection tools such as Kobo and ODK, ensuring accuracy and reliability in fieldwork. His expertise in statistical software, including SPSS, Stata, SAS, R, and EpiInfo, enables him to perform advanced data analysis, interpretation, and presentation of findings in a scientifically sound manner. He is skilled in managing large datasets, performing quantitative analysis, and applying scientific methods to address complex health challenges. In addition, he has experience in article writing, peer review, and scientific communication, making his work accessible to both academic and professional audiences. His ability to combine problem-solving, evidence-based approaches, and interdisciplinary perspectives underscores his capacity to generate impactful research that informs policy, strengthens health systems, and contributes to global health knowledge.

Publications Top Notes

Title: Lifestyle Modification Practice and Associated Factors Among Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Dachasa Dabalo

Title: Magnitude of Food Insecurity and Its Associated Factors Among Adult HIV Patients on Antiretroviral Therapy at Public Health Facilities in Ambo Town, West Shewa, Ethiopia
Authors: Dachasa Dabalo, Tolessa Beyene, Mitsiwat Abebe, Mulatu Ayana

Conclusion

Mr. Dachasa Dabalo is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions bridge clinical care, academic teaching, and impactful public health research, showcasing both depth and versatility. With demonstrated commitment to healthcare improvement and community well-being, he exemplifies the qualities of a dedicated researcher. While further expansion in global collaborations and high-impact publications would strengthen his profile even more, his current achievements already reflect significant merit. He is well-suited for recognition as a promising and impactful researcher whose work continues to advance both academic knowledge and public health practice.