Shebli Atrash | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Shebli Atrash | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Shebli Atrash | Levine Cancer Institute | United States

Dr. Shebli Atrash, MD, MS, FACP, is a distinguished physician-scientist specializing in hematological malignancies and blood disorders. Currently serving as Associate Professor at Wake Forest University School of Medicine, he is deeply committed to advancing cancer research, patient care, and medical education. With an MD from the University of Damascus and advanced training in cancer biology at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Dr. Atrash has built a career centered on innovation in oncology. His expertise spans clinical practice, academic teaching, translational research, and leadership in clinical trials. Over the years, he has earned multiple recognitions for excellence, including Resident of the Year and awards for top accrual in clinical trials. As a reviewer and editor for leading journals and an active member of numerous professional societies, he continues to shape the global conversation in oncology. His dedication bridges scientific innovation with compassionate patient care.

Professional Profile: 

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Education

Dr. Atrash began his medical journey at the University of Damascus, where he earned his MD. His pursuit of deeper scientific knowledge led him to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), where he completed a Clinical Translational Science Certificate and a Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences with a cancer biology track. To complement his clinical and academic expertise, he also completed advanced leadership training through the Physician/APP Leadership Institute program at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute and Wake Forest University School of Medicine. His educational path reflects a balance of rigorous medical training, translational research expertise, and leadership development. Each step has prepared him to excel in bridging bedside care with cutting-edge oncology research. His lifelong learning commitment underscores his passion for improving outcomes for patients with hematologic malignancies.

Experience

Dr. Atrash’s professional journey demonstrates a remarkable blend of clinical excellence, academic leadership, and scientific research. He began his training as an Internal Medicine Intern and Resident at St. Barnabas Hospital/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, followed by a Hematology & Oncology Fellowship at UAMS. His faculty appointments span prestigious institutions, including the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, University of North Carolina, Atrium Health, and now Wake Forest University School of Medicine, where he serves as an Associate Professor in Hematology and Oncology. Beyond academia, Dr. Atrash has contributed to clinical trial development, serving on multiple advisory boards for leading pharmaceutical companies and acting as a reviewer and editor for top oncology journals. His wide-reaching experience also includes roles on independent review committees for pivotal Phase  clinical trials. With a career marked by leadership, innovation, and collaboration, Dr. Atrash is recognized as both a skilled clinician and a visionary researcher.

Research Interest

Dr. Atrash’s research interests center on hematological malignancies, with a special focus on multiple myeloma. He is deeply engaged in exploring novel therapies and clinical trials that advance patient care, including CAR-T cell therapy, antibody-drug conjugates, and combination regimens for relapsed/refractory myeloma. His translational work integrates cancer cell biology with therapeutic innovation, seeking to develop strategies that improve survival and quality of life for patients. He is currently the Principal Investigator of a multimillion-dollar investigator-initiated trial exploring Carfilzomib, Lenalidomide, Dexamethasone, and Belantamab Mafodotin for multiple myeloma. Additionally, his roles on the International Myeloma Working Group (IMWG), Southwest Oncology Group (SWOG), and CIBMTR reflect his influence on the global hematology research agenda. His interests also extend to improving clinical trial design, translational oncology, and immune-based therapies, positioning him as a leader in shaping the next generation of cancer therapeutics.

Awards

Dr. Atrash has consistently been recognized for his excellence in medicine, research, and clinical trials. Early in his career, he was honored as Resident of the Year at St. Barnabas Hospital. During his time at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, he received the Dean’s Circle of Excellence Awards, highlighting his academic and clinical contributions. More recently, at Atrium Health, he was recognized as the Top Accruer for interventional and non-interventional clinical trials, showcasing his leadership in clinical research and dedication to advancing therapies for patients. These honors reflect his consistent ability to combine academic rigor, research innovation, and patient-centered care. Collectively, they illustrate a career built on excellence, impact, and recognition from both peers and leading institutions in oncology and internal medicine.

Publications

Dr. Atrash has authored and co-authored numerous impactful publications in top-tier oncology and hematology journals. His research spans multiple myeloma, novel therapeutics, and immune-based strategies, with publications widely cited by peers. He also serves as a reviewer, guest editor, and editorial board member for high-impact journals such as Cancers, British Journal of Haematology, and Annals of Blood. Selected publications include:

Title: Dexamethasone for the management of CRS Related to teclistamab in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma
Citations: 2

Title: Outcomes of teclistamab in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma with prior exposure to BCMA-directed therapy: a multicenter study from the U.S. Multiple Myeloma Immunotherapy Consortium
Journal: Blood Cancer Journal, 2025

Title: A phase 2 randomized study of modakafusp alfa as a single agent for patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma
Journal: Blood, 2025

Title: Stem Cell Mobilization Yields with Daratumumab (Dara) and Lenalidomide (Len)-Containing Quadruplet Induction Therapy in Patients with Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma (NDMM): A Real-World Experience at 2 Institutes
Journal: Clinical Lymphoma Myeloma and Leukemia, 2025

Title: Teclistamab for patients with heavily pretreated relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma and renal impairment
Journal: Blood Advances, 2025

Title: Global Access to Multiple Myeloma Therapies
Journal: JCO Global Oncology, 2025

Conclusion

Dr. Shebli Atrash is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award, bringing together academic excellence, clinical innovation, and impactful service to the hematology and oncology community. His strong record in clinical trial leadership, journal editorships, and advisory roles establishes him as a distinguished researcher in multiple myeloma. With continued growth in authorship leadership, international visibility, and mentorship, Dr. Atrash’s career trajectory promises sustained contributions to cancer research and patient outcomes. Based on his strengths, he is highly suitable for this award.

Nicolas Karakatsanis | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nicolas Karakatsanis | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award 

Associate Professor of Biomedical Engineering in Radiology, at Weill Cornell Medicine, United States.

Dr. Nikolaos A. Karakatsanis is a distinguished nuclear physicist specializing in molecular imaging and medical physics. Currently, he serves as an Assistant Professor at Weill Cornell Medical College and holds several leadership roles in radiology and biomedical engineering. His work spans cutting-edge research in cardiovascular PET/MR imaging, nuclear medicine physics, and quantitative image reconstruction. Dr. Karakatsanis’s contributions to the field have led to advancements in medical imaging technology, benefiting both clinical and research applications. With numerous awards and high-impact publications, he remains at the forefront of nuclear medicine innovation, including notable work in PET scanning and software development.

Professional Profile

Scopus

ORCID

Google Scholar

Education 🎓

Dr. Karakatsanis received his Joint Bachelor’s & Master’s in Electrical & Computer Engineering from the National Technical University of Athens in Greece, graduating in 2005. He completed his Ph.D. in the same field at NTUA in 2010, focusing on medical imaging technologies. During his academic journey, he broadened his expertise as a Visiting Scholar at UCLA’s Crump Institute for Molecular Imaging and through various postdoctoral research fellowships at prestigious institutions, including Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions and Geneva University Hospitals, where he specialized in PET imaging and data analysis.

Experience 💼

Dr. Karakatsanis’s professional career spans both academic and clinical domains. He served as a Research Scientist at Mount Sinai’s Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Institute, advancing cardiovascular imaging techniques. His role as an Assistant Professor at Weill Cornell Medical College focuses on biomedical engineering in radiology, where he leads innovative research in nuclear imaging. Additionally, he contributes to various professional organizations, including the Society of Nuclear Medicine & Molecular Imaging. Dr. Karakatsanis’s diverse background in both academic and clinical settings allows him to integrate theory and practice in advancing medical technologies.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Karakatsanis’s research interests are centered on improving molecular imaging techniques, particularly PET and PET/MR imaging. His work aims to enhance image quality and accuracy in clinical applications, especially in cardiovascular imaging. He is passionate about developing and optimizing software for medical imaging and data analysis. His expertise also extends to simulating imaging systems and advancing nuclear physics instrumentation. Dr. Karakatsanis is actively engaged in interdisciplinary research, collaborating across various fields to drive innovation in medical diagnostics and therapeutics.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Karakatsanis has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his career. He was honored with the Thomaidio Award for Best Master’s Thesis in 2005 and Best Journal Publication in 2006. He has also been awarded several Trainee Grants from the IEEE Nuclear Plasma & Sciences Society. His work on PET imaging was recognized with the Original Research Article featured in Physics in Medicine and Biology (PMB) in 2016, which was ranked among the top 10 most popular PMB articles. In 2023, he was awarded the Hal O’Brien Rising Star Award in Nuclear Medicine.

Top Noted Publications 📚

Dr. Karakatsanis’s scholarly contributions include over 70 peer-reviewed research articles, many of which have had a significant impact on the field of medical imaging. Some of his notable publications include:

  • PyTomography: A Python Library for Medical Image Reconstruction
    • Authors: L.A. Polson, R. Fedrigo, C. Li, A. Rahmim, C.F. Uribe
    • Journal: SoftwareX, 2025
    • Overview: This article discusses a Python library for reconstructing medical images, focusing on the advancements and applications in PET imaging.
  • [18F]-Fluoroestradiol (FES) Brain PET in Estrogen Receptor Positive Breast Cancer
    • Authors: J. Ivanidze, A. Sharbatdaran, A. McCalla, J.P.S. Knisely, R.R. Ramakrishna
    • Journal: European Journal of Radiology, 2024
    • Overview: This study evaluates the role of [18F]-Fluoroestradiol (FES) PET in assessing estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer patients, particularly focusing on brain metastases.
  • Assessment of Dual Time Point Protocols in FDG PET/CT
    • Authors: N. Reshtebar, S.A. Hosseini, M. Zhuang, N.A. Karakatsanis, P. Sheikhzadeh
    • Journal: Medical Physics, 2024
    • Overview: A virtual clinical study evaluating dual time-point protocols for producing parametric Ki images in FDG PET/CT scans.
  • [1-11C]-Butanol PET Reveals Impaired Brain to Nasal Turbinates Pathway in Aging Amyloid Positive Subjects
    • Authors: N.H. Mehta, X. Wang, S.A. Keil, G.C.Y. Chiang, M.J. de Leon
    • Journal: Fluids and Barriers of the CNS, 2024
    • Overview: This study uses [1-11C]-Butanol PET to investigate impaired pathways in aging subjects with amyloid, with a focus on the brain and nasal turbinates.
  • [Ga68] DOTATATE PET/MRI-guided Radiosurgical Treatment in Meningiomas
    • Authors: J. Ivanidze, S. Chang, A. Haghdel, J.D. Palmer, J.P.S. Knisely
    • Journal: Neuro-Oncology, 2024
    • Overview: The paper discusses how PET/MRI-guided radiosurgery is used for treatment planning and response assessment in patients with meningiomas.
  • DOTATATE PET/MR Imaging in Differentiating Meningiomas
    • Authors: J. Kim, S.J.C. Chang, A. Haghdel, J.P.S. Knisely, J. Ivanidze
    • Journal: American Journal of Neuroradiology, 2024
    • Overview: Focuses on the differentiation between secondary-progressive and de novo World Health Organization Grade 3 meningiomas using DOTATATE PET/MRI imaging.
  • Brain Fluid Clearance After Traumatic Brain Injury Measured Using Dynamic PET
    • Authors: T.A. Butler, J.J. Schubert, N.A. Karakatsanis, F.E. Turkheimer, S.A. Shah
    • Journal: Neurotrauma Reports, 2024
    • Overview: This article investigates brain fluid clearance post-traumatic brain injury using dynamic PET imaging, offering insights into brain recovery and function.

Conclusion

Based on his exceptional academic qualifications, groundbreaking research contributions, notable professional achievements, and recognition within the scientific community, Dr. Nikolaos A. Karakatsanis is undoubtedly a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His ability to innovate and lead in the field of Nuclear Medicine and Biomedical Imaging positions him as a leader in his domain. While there are areas for further growth, particularly in expanding interdisciplinary collaborations and public engagement, his achievements to date make him a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

 

Matjaž Kopač | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Matjaž Kopač | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award 

Assistant Professor Doctorate, at UMC Ljubljana, Div. of Pediatrics, Slovenia.

Matjaž Kopač, M.D., D.Sc., is a prominent pediatric nephrologist at the University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Slovenia. With an extensive background in pediatric nephrology and a strong focus on ultrasonography, his career has been dedicated to improving diagnostic techniques and treatments for kidney-related disorders in children. He completed his medical education at the Faculty of Medicine, Ljubljana University, and advanced his expertise through postgraduate studies and specialized training in pediatric radiology, nephrology, and dialysis. His work has led to groundbreaking research in pediatric nephrology, earning him recognition both in Slovenia and internationally. 🩺👨‍⚕️

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Matjaž Kopač’s academic journey began at the Faculty of Medicine, Ljubljana University, where he earned his medical degree in 1999. He was awarded the Prešeren award for his research on genetic susceptibility to lung cancer in the Slovenian population. His postgraduate education includes a Master of Science degree focused on asthma diagnosis and treatment. His doctoral thesis, completed in 2005, centered on innovative diagnostic methods for detecting vesicoureteral reflux in children. Matjaž furthered his knowledge with various advanced courses in ultrasonography and pediatric nephrology. 🎓📚

Experience

Dr. Kopač’s professional career includes key roles in pediatric nephrology at the University Medical Centre Ljubljana. He served as a Pediatric Nephrology Research Fellow, leading significant studies in the field, and has been appointed Assistant Professor in Pediatrics at the Faculty of Medicine. His clinical expertise extends to pediatric radiology and nephrology, supported by a rich history of international training, including courses and observerships in renowned medical centers such as the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Matjaž is a leading figure in Slovenian pediatric nephrology, contributing to multiple clinical and academic advancements. 🏥👩‍⚕️

Research Interest

Dr. Kopač’s research interests primarily focus on pediatric nephrology, with particular emphasis on diagnostic techniques such as ultrasonography for detecting vesicoureteral reflux, acute kidney injury in children, and the role of cytokines in nephrotic syndrome. His work aims to improve early diagnosis, treatment strategies, and patient outcomes in pediatric nephrology. Additionally, Matjaž has contributed to studies exploring the impact of genetic factors on kidney disease susceptibility in children. His research is instrumental in shaping clinical practice and advancing the field of pediatric nephrology. 🔬💉

Awards

Dr. Kopač has received numerous accolades throughout his career. Notably, he was awarded the prestigious Prešeren award during his studies for his research on genetic susceptibility to lung cancer. His continuous contributions to pediatric nephrology have earned him recognition both locally and internationally, with several awards from medical societies and institutions. His dedication to advancing pediatric nephrology and improving patient care has solidified his standing as a leading expert in his field. 🏅🏆

Top Notes Publication

  • Acute Kidney Injury in Children: Classification, Recognition, and Treatment Principles (Kopač, M., 2024, Children)
    • This article likely discusses the classification of acute kidney injury (AKI) in children, the recognition of its symptoms and causes, and principles of treatment, focusing on the best practices for managing this condition in pediatric patients.
  • Pediatric Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction: A Comprehensive Exploration of Clinical Implications and Diagnostic Strategies (Kopač, M., 2024, Biomedicines)
    • This paper likely explores the clinical implications of lower urinary tract dysfunction in children, providing insight into diagnostic strategies and the impact this condition can have on pediatric health.
  • Symptoms and Signs of Kidney Diseases in Children During COVID-19 Pandemic in Slovenia (Tolar, L., Kopač, M., 2023, Paediatria Croatica)
    • The article might describe how the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced the presentation of kidney diseases in children, particularly in Slovenia, detailing any unusual symptoms or trends observed during this time.
  • Associated Anomalies and Complications of Multicystic Dysplastic Kidney (Kopač, M., Kordič, R., 2022, Pediatric Reports)
    • This article discusses multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK) in children, specifically the associated anomalies and complications that may arise from this congenital condition.
  • Impact of Coronavirus Disease-2019 on Pediatric Nephrology Practice and Education: An ESPN Survey (Yazıcıoğlu, B., et al., 2022, Pediatric Nephrology)
    • The survey likely covers the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the practice of pediatric nephrology, including how it affected patient care, education, and the adaptation of nephrology practices during the global health crisis.

Conclusion

Dr. Matjaž Kopač is undoubtedly a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his robust clinical expertise, innovative contributions to pediatric nephrology, and significant impact within the research community. His academic excellence, extensive training, and dedication to advancing pediatric healthcare through research make him an outstanding choice. While opportunities exist to further amplify his influence, his current achievements already position him as a leading researcher in his field, deserving of recognition for his continued dedication to improving child health through medical research.