Baloji Biaya Désiré | Public Health | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Baloji Biaya Désiré | Public Health | Best Researcher Award 

PhD student | Official University of Mbujimayi | Democratic Republic of the Congo

BALOJI BIAYA Désiré is a distinguished doctoral researcher in public health at the Official University of Mbujimayi, recognized for his strong commitment to advancing healthcare systems and addressing the multifaceted challenges of public health in resource-limited settings. His academic and professional pursuits integrate rigorous quantitative and qualitative research methodologies to explore critical areas such as HIV management, acute malnutrition, epidemic disease control, and malaria prevention. As principal investigator of an influential study on HIV care perceptions in Mbujimayi, he led the conception, design, data collection, analysis, and interpretation, culminating in a publication that has contributed significantly to understanding patient experiences and healthcare barriers within the Democratic Republic of Congo. His collaborative engagements with national and international NGOs reflect a deep commitment to humanitarian service and evidence-based health policy development. Through these partnerships, he has played a pivotal role in translating field research into actionable strategies for improving access, retention, and quality of care in underserved populations. His scholarly work, disseminated through reputable international journals, underscores his dedication to community-centered research and global health equity. Beyond academic contributions, he is actively involved in professional networks such as the National Council of the Order of Physicians, the Union of Physicians of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Competence Intelligence Development Expertise Solidarity Group, where he advocates for ethical standards and capacity building among healthcare professionals. With a growing portfolio of research, consultancy projects, and ongoing innovation, BALOJI BIAYA Désiré continues to bridge the gap between scientific inquiry and real-world health solutions, making a measurable impact on public health policy, disease prevention, and community empowerment across Africa and beyond.

Profile: ORCID 

Featured Publications

1. Baloji, D., Ntambwe, G., Ntambua, A., Kidinda, W., Kazadi, M. B., Mpanya, A., Mukuna, B., Ngongo, L., Mjumbe, C., & Mutombo, A. K. (2025). Perceptions, challenges and barriers to HIV care in Mbujimayi in the East Kasai Province, DR Congo: A qualitative study. HIV/AIDS – Research and Palliative Care.

2. Baloji, D., Ntambwe, G., Mpanya, A., Mukuna, B. N., Tague, C., Mjumbe, C. K., Mutombo, A. K., & Lutumba, P. (2025). Correlates of viral load suppression among people living with HIV on antiretroviral treatment in Mbujimayi, Democratic Republic of Congo. Preprint.

3. Baloji Biaya, D., Freddy, K., Jean, L., & Lutumba, P. (2025). Diagnostic versus la prescription médicale des antipaludiques et antibiotiques: Attitude et pratiques des cliniciens à Kinshasa en République Démocratique du Congo. Revue Congolaise des Sciences & Technologies.

4. Baloji Biaya, D. (2021). Urgence sanitaire Covid-19: Perception du confinement en milieu urbain africain. International Journal of Educational Research (IJO).

5. Baloji Biaya, D., & Kouakou, E. (2020). Diseases associated to the treatment of malnutrition in children in developing countries: Case of the Wikong Therapeutic and Nutritional Intensive Care Unit in Democratic Republic of Congo. Acta Scientific Paediatrics,

Jack Ogony | Infectious Diseases | Outstanding Scientist Award

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Dr. Jack Ogony | Infectious Diseases | Outstanding Scientist Award

Research Associate | Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University | Kenya

Dr. Jack Ogony is a distinguished Research Associate at the Institute for Health Research, Epidemiological Surveillance and Trainings (IRESSEF), with over 13 years of extensive experience in public health research across Sub-Saharan Africa. He is currently completing his PhD in Epidemiology and Biostatistics at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, having previously earned a Master’s in Epidemiology from the same institution, a Postgraduate Certificate in Monitoring and Evaluation from the Kenya Institute of Management, and a BSc in Medical Laboratory Science from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology. Dr. Ogony’s research primarily focuses on epidemiology, infectious diseases, climate change impacts on health systems, and vaccine and drug trial studies. He has contributed significantly to understanding the burden of Plasmodium falciparum and Dengue virus infections among under five in Western Kenya and the wider implications of climate change on African healthcare infrastructure. His work has been published in high-impact journals including Frontiers in Public Health, PLOS Global Public Health, and the East African Medical Journal, others, reflecting both the depth and breadth of his contributions. He has also served as Principal Investigator on multiple USAID-funded  under the Climate Adaptation Research Program (CARP). Recognized for his leadership and expertise, Dr. Ogony is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene and the African Society for Laboratory Medicine. He has earned awards for scientific excellence and serves as a peer reviewer for multiple journals, contributing to the advancement of global health research and capacity building in and infectious disease control across Africa. He has 28 citations from 5 documents with an h-index of 2.

Profile: Scopus | ORCID

Publications

1. Ogony, J., Menya, D., Mangeni, J. N., Ayodo, G., & Karanja, S. M. (2025). Public health facility vulnerabilities, preparedness and health outcomes for P. falciparum and Dengue virus infected children under 5 years with acute febrile illnesses in Western Kenya. Frontiers in Public Health, 13, 1526558.

2. Ogony, J., Mangeni, J., Ayodo, G., Amulen, E., Scopas, F., Juma, T., … & Hannah, C. (2025). The stifling burden of climate change on African public healthcare systems. Frontiers in Public Health, 13, 1559737.

3. Ogony, J., Karanja, S., Menya, D., Mangeni, J., & Ayodo, G. (2024). Prevalence and risk factors of Plasmodium falciparum and Dengue virus infections among children below 5 years with acute febrile illnesses in Kisumu and Busia Counties. East African Medical Journal, 101(12).

4. Owusu Agyare, B., Eder, P., Shenai, S., Chendi, B. H., Carlson, C., Iradukunda, A., Mukoka, M., Ogony, J., Manigart, O., O., O., Ogbaini-Emovon, E., & Seida, A. A. (2024). Potential implications of the climate crisis on diagnostics. PLOS Global Public Health, 4(3), e0002935.

5. Ogony, J., Obiero, B., Tukhuwa, B., Gondwe, C., Kampeta, E., Orner, C., & Tiruneh, T. (2021). Research knowledge translation activities in Africa: An outlook of the opportunities and obstacles. International Journal of Scientific Advances, 2(5), 8.

Joseph Prahlow | Public Health | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Joseph Prahlow | Public Health | Best Researcher Award

Professor at St Louis University School of Medicine, United States

Joseph August Prahlow, MD stands out as a highly accomplished forensic pathologist and academic leader whose career reflects outstanding contributions to research, education, and professional service. He has held influential leadership roles within national organizations, including serving as president and chair, where he helped shape forensic standards and medical education. His scholarly impact is evident through numerous awards recognizing excellence in both research and teaching, alongside long-standing editorial responsibilities with leading forensic journals. Prahlow’s dedication to mentoring and educating future professionals highlights his commitment to advancing the field across generations. While his achievements are remarkable, opportunities remain for expanding global research collaborations and fostering interdisciplinary work that links forensic pathology with broader health and societal issues. Additionally, increased international mentorship could further extend his influence worldwide. Overall, his extensive record of leadership, research excellence, and academic service makes him highly deserving of recognition through the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

 Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile 

Education

Joseph August Prahlow, MD has built a strong educational foundation that has supported his distinguished career in forensic pathology and academic medicine. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree following undergraduate studies in biology and chemistry, with additional overseas study experiences that enriched his academic perspective. His postgraduate training included a comprehensive internship and residency in anatomic and clinical pathology, followed by a specialized fellowship in forensic pathology at a leading medical center, which provided him with advanced expertise in the field. Complementing his traditional medical training, he later pursued studies in homeopathic medicine, reflecting his openness to diverse approaches in healthcare and medical science. His educational path demonstrates both academic excellence and a commitment to broadening his knowledge base, enabling him to excel as a clinician, researcher, and educator. This diverse and rigorous education has been central to his professional achievements and his ability to mentor future medical professionals.

Experience

Joseph August Prahlow, MD has accumulated extensive professional experience that highlights his leadership, expertise, and dedication to forensic pathology and academic medicine. He has served in multiple roles as a forensic pathologist across prominent medical examiner offices, including leadership positions such as Deputy Chief Medical Examiner, where he contributed to advancing forensic investigations and public health standards. His academic career has been equally distinguished, holding professorships and vice-chair roles in pathology at respected medical schools, where he combined clinical practice with teaching and mentorship. Prahlow’s experience extends beyond institutional service to national leadership, having served as president and chair of major forensic and pathology organizations, where he played a critical role in shaping professional standards and educational frameworks. His long-standing involvement with editorial boards of leading journals further underscores his influence in advancing scientific knowledge. Collectively, his professional experience reflects a balance of clinical practice, research, education, and organizational leadership.

Research Interest

Joseph August Prahlow, MD has developed wide-ranging research interests that reflect his deep commitment to advancing forensic pathology and its intersection with medicine, law, and public health. His work focuses on forensic autopsy practice, death investigation standards, and the pathological findings that help unravel complex medicolegal cases. He has contributed to research aimed at improving the accuracy, reliability, and educational value of forensic pathology, while also engaging in studies that address public health concerns related to causes of death, such as sudden unexpected deaths, child fatalities, and cases involving emerging forensic challenges. His interests also extend to medical education, where he has examined effective teaching strategies and curriculum development to enhance the training of future forensic experts. More recently, his pursuit of complementary perspectives, including homeopathic medicine, demonstrates a willingness to explore integrative approaches within medical science. Altogether, his research interests combine scientific rigor with educational and societal impact.

Award and Honor

Joseph August Prahlow, MD has received numerous awards and honors that underscore his excellence as a researcher, educator, and leader in forensic pathology. He has been recognized in Stanford University and Elsevier’s Top Scientist Rankings, reflecting his global impact on scientific research. His dedication to teaching has earned multiple Outstanding Clinical and Basic Science Educator awards, Trustee Teaching Awards, and Physician of the Year recognition from academic institutions. Nationally, he has been honored with prestigious accolades such as the Milton Helpern Award from the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, the STAR Award, the President’s Award, and the Outstanding Service Award from the National Association of Medical Examiners, recognizing both his scientific and service contributions. He has also been acknowledged for his research funding success and innovation with awards such as the Excellence in Discovery Award. Collectively, these honors highlight his sustained commitment to advancing forensic science, education, and medical practice.

Research Skill

Joseph August Prahlow, MD possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that have significantly advanced the field of forensic pathology and medical science. He is highly skilled in forensic autopsy methodology, death investigation techniques, and the interpretation of complex pathological findings, which are critical to generating reliable and impactful research outcomes. His expertise extends to developing and applying forensic standards, contributing to the accuracy and consistency of scientific practice across the discipline. In addition, his strong background in clinical and anatomic pathology provides a robust foundation for integrating laboratory analysis with forensic casework. Prahlow has also demonstrated proficiency in academic research through authorship, peer review, and editorial responsibilities for leading journals, showcasing his ability to evaluate and disseminate scientific knowledge. His research skills are complemented by strengths in medical education, curriculum design, and mentorship, enabling him to bridge scientific inquiry with training future professionals, thereby amplifying the impact of his work.

Publications Top Notes

Title: Deaths Related to New-Onset Seizures After Vaccination
Authors: Joseph A. Prahlow

Title: Death due to positional asphyxia related to underlying seizure disorder
Authors: Garlen Yu; Joseph A. Prahlow

Title: Insulin-Related Suicides—3 Cases
Authors: Joseph A. Prahlow; Marcel Castor; Prentiss Jones

Title: “COVID-Collateral” Deaths
Authors: Joseph A. Prahlow; Theodore Brown

Title: Arc-like curvilinear bullet pathways along inner surface of skull – two cases
Authors: Keenan Boulnemour; Joseph A. Prahlow

Conclusion

Overall, the candidate’s extensive contributions to forensic pathology, research excellence, and academic leadership make them highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award. Their strengths strongly outweigh the areas for improvement, and with expanded global collaboration and mentorship, their already significant impact could grow even further.