Mr Ernesto Diaz | Data Scientist | Best Researcher Award

Mr Ernesto Diaz |  Data Scientist | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Specialist at University of California, San Francisco – Radiology & Biomedical Imaging , United States.

Ernesto Diaz is an accomplished researcher and data scientist specializing in biomedical imaging and artificial intelligence applications in healthcare. With a strong background in medical imaging, deep learning, and data science, he has contributed significantly to Hyperpolarized Carbon-13 MRI research, cancer imaging, and radiation oncology. His work has been recognized through prestigious NIH awards, peer-reviewed publications, and multiple conference presentations. Passionate about advancing healthcare technology, Ernesto combines technical expertise with a commitment to mentorship and diversity in STEM.

Professional Profile

Orcid

Education 🎓

Ernesto earned his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from San Francisco State University in 2022, graduating with Dean’s List honors (2020-2022). His education provided a strong foundation in programming, data analysis, and computational research, which he has applied extensively in biomedical imaging and artificial intelligence projects.

Professional Experience 💼

  • As a Data Scientist at UCSF’s Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, Ernesto leads software development for medical imaging analysis, enhancing data processing and visualization tools. His previous research experience includes working on automated radiation treatment planning and bioinformatics coding for population health studies. His contributions have improved efficiency in clinical workflows and advanced AI applications in medical imaging.

Research Interests 🌍

His research revolves around Hyperpolarized Carbon-13 MRI, deep learning for medical image segmentation, and automation in radiation oncology. At UCSF, he developed a DICOM standardization tool for metabolic imaging and co-developed a U-Net deep learning model for prostate cancer segmentation. Additionally, he has explored health disparities in underserved communities, analyzing COVID-19’s impact on marginalized populations.

Awards & Honors 🏆

  • NIH Diversity Supplement Award (2022-2024) – Recognized for contributions to Hyperpolarized 13C MRI research.
  • NIH-SF BUILD Scholar (2021-2022) – Selected for leadership potential and commitment to diversity in research.
  • Dean’s List (2020-2022) – Awarded for academic excellence at San Francisco State University.

Top Noted Publications 📚

Title: Deep Learning-Based Tumor Segmentation of Murine Magnetic Resonance Images of Prostate Cancer Patient-Derived Xenografts

Authors: Satvik Nayak, Henry Salkever, Ernesto Diaz, Avantika Sinha, Nikhil Deveshwar, Madeline Hess, Matthew Gibbons, Sule Sahin, Abhejit Rajagopal, Peder E. Z. Larson, et al.

Journal: Tomography

Publication Year: 2025

DOI: 10.3390/tomography11030021

Indexing: Indexed in major scientific databases.

Conclusion

Ernesto Diaz is a rising leader in medical imaging research, blending AI, data science, and biomedical imaging to drive innovation. With his technical skills, research excellence, and dedication to mentorship, he continues to push the boundaries of healthcare technology and scientific discovery. 🚀

Dr Janelle Darby | Gynecologic Oncology | Best Researcher Award |

Dr. Janelle Darby | Gynecologic Oncology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor, at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, United States

Dr. Janelle Pakish Darby, MD, MS, is an accomplished Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Wake Forest School of Medicine. She earned her MD from the University of Washington School of Medicine and a Master of Science from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Dr. Darby’s research focuses on gynecologic oncology, specifically endometrial cancer, with a notable emphasis on the immune microenvironment of microsatellite instable endometrial cancer. Her academic journey includes postdoctoral training at prestigious institutions like Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and MD Anderson Cancer Center. Throughout her career, Dr. Darby has received numerous honors, including the Felix Rutledge Fellow award and the Best Abstract on Gynecologic Oncology Award. She is actively involved in advancing medical education through her innovative work in developing gynecologic oncology curricula and her participation in leadership programs such as the Association of Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics (APGO) Academic Scholars and Leaders Program. Dr. Darby’s contributions to both research and education make her a distinguished figure in her field.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Orcid

Education 🎓

Dr. Janelle Pakish Darby earned her Bachelor of Arts in Biology from the University of Pennsylvania in 2006, before pursuing her MD at the University of Washington School of Medicine in 2010. She further advanced her academic credentials by obtaining a Master of Science from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston in 2016. Her research thesis, titled “The Immune Microenvironment of Microsatellite Instable Endometrial Cancer,” reflects her academic dedication to advancing the understanding of cancer biology.

Experience 💼

Dr. Darby is currently an Assistant Professor at the Wake Forest School of Medicine in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, where she has been shaping the next generation of medical professionals since 2018. Prior to this role, she completed a residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center and a fellowship in Gynecologic Oncology at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Her professional journey is a testament to her commitment to patient care and academic excellence.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Darby’s research primarily focuses on gynecologic oncology, with a particular interest in endometrial cancer. She has extensively studied the immune microenvironment of cancer, specifically microsatellite instable endometrial cancer, contributing to the growing body of knowledge surrounding cancer immunology. Her expertise in cancer diagnostics and treatment positions her as a leader in the field, working toward improving patient outcomes through novel approaches in gynecologic oncology.

Award 🏅

Dr. Darby has received numerous honors throughout her career. She was awarded the SPARX/CHAP Participation Award in 2008 for her commitment to community health, followed by the Felix Rutledge Fellow recognition at MD Anderson Cancer Center in 2012. In 2013, she was awarded the Best Abstract on Gynecologic Oncology Award at the AAGL Global Congress on Minimally Invasive Gynecology, underscoring her academic excellence and contributions to the field of gynecology.

Top Noted Publication 📑

Title: A patient stratification signature mirrors the immunogenic potential of high grade serous ovarian cancers

Authors:

Laurel K. Berry

Ashok K. Pullikuth

Kristen L. Stearns

Julia Chifman

Lance David Miller

Journal: Journal of Translational Medicine

Year of Publication: 2024

Citations: Not yet available (as of the current year)

Index: Journal of Translational Medicine

Conclusion

Dr. Janelle Pakish Darby is a highly qualified and dedicated professional with a solid track record in academic and clinical research. Her work in gynecologic oncology and her involvement in education and leadership make her a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. While her research output and funding could be further enhanced, her expertise, leadership, and potential for future contributions to cancer research position her as an exceptional candidate. Expanding her research network and publications would solidify her standing as a leader in her field.