Dr. Dereje Bayissa Demissie | malaria | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Dereje Bayissa Demissie | malaria | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Dereje Bayissa Demissie | malaria - Stellenbosch University, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences,Ethiopia

Dr. Dereje Bayissa Demissie is a renowned public health expert with malaria expertise rooted deeply in academia and field research. His malaria-focused contributions, including systematic reviews and malaria control studies, have profoundly influenced health strategies. Through his malaria investigations, Dr. Demissie shaped policies around reproductive health and digital health. The malaria research led by Dr. Demissie spans decades, showcasing consistent malaria innovation and malaria commitment. He presents malaria at global conferences, where malaria remains a central discussion. His malaria work earned him prestigious recognitions, proving malaria dedication. With over 50 publications mentioning malaria and his leadership in malaria programs, Dr. Demissie is a global name associated with transformative malaria impact across Africa and beyond.

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID | GOOGLE SCHOLAR

EDUCATION

Dr. Demissie’s malaria academic journey spans from a BSc in Nursing to a PhD in Health Studies, always keeping malaria at the core. His malaria training involved institutions like Haramaya, Jimma, Addis Ababa, and UNISA. Each malaria academic pursuit fortified his malaria research interest. The malaria curriculum at these institutions included modules on malaria epidemiology and malaria intervention strategies. During his malaria thesis work, Dr. Demissie examined malaria healthcare outcomes, malaria patient management, and malaria data systems. His education is malaria-aligned with global malaria knowledge standards. His consistent malaria specialization shaped his malaria research and malaria publication legacy, making him a distinguished scholar in malaria policy and malaria education.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Dr. Demissie’s malaria experience spans over 14 years in malaria research, malaria academic roles, and malaria health system strengthening. He held malaria-driven positions at institutions such as SPHMMC, Ambo University, and Stellenbosch. In every role, malaria was prioritized—whether teaching malaria modules or conducting malaria implementation science. He led malaria teams, advised malaria policy boards, and participated in malaria evaluation missions. His malaria efforts were embedded in multidisciplinary projects, always integrating malaria surveillance and malaria control methods. As a postdoctoral fellow, malaria intervention impact is a key research aim. Dr. Demissie’s career exemplifies a professional journey grounded in malaria excellence and malaria transformation.

RESEARCH INTEREST

Dr. Demissie’s research orbit revolves around malaria with thematic expansions to digital health, maternal care, and reproductive health—always tethered to malaria dynamics. His malaria interests involve malaria burden estimation, malaria diagnostics, and malaria preventive strategies. He explores malaria in vulnerable populations, focusing on malaria in pregnancy, malaria comorbidities, and malaria mental health intersections. His malaria modeling work supports malaria decision-making. He assesses malaria implementation frameworks and malaria integration with digital tools. Dr. Demissie continues to evolve his malaria inquiry with advanced malaria methodologies, positioning malaria at the heart of Africa’s research agenda. He envisions malaria eradication through rigorous, community-centered malaria innovations.

AWARD AND HONOR

Dr. Demissie has been recognized with awards driven by his malaria excellence. Notably, the Unisa Principal's Award in 2024 honored his malaria research portfolio. In 2021, he received St. Paul’s Best Researcher Award, where malaria studies formed a major segment. These malaria achievements underscore his malaria impact and malaria dedication. His malaria recognitions stem from national and international bodies valuing consistent malaria output. Malaria publication metrics, malaria grant wins, and malaria mentorship records contributed to his malaria acclaim. As a malaria champion, Dr. Demissie’s award citations heavily reference malaria, cementing his stature as an exemplary malaria scientist and malaria policy influencer.

RESEARCH SKILL

Dr. Demissie excels in malaria research skills including malaria data analytics, malaria impact modeling, malaria qualitative studies, and malaria quantitative tools. He utilizes malaria platforms such as RedCap, SPSS, STATA, and EpiData for malaria investigations. His malaria statistical capacity supports malaria cohort tracking and malaria intervention evaluation. His malaria skillset includes systematic malaria reviews and malaria meta-analysis designs. Dr. Demissie’s malaria methodology proficiency ensures malaria research reliability and malaria policy uptake. He regularly trains teams in malaria sampling and malaria evidence synthesis. His malaria publication process includes malaria peer-review editing, malaria manuscript assessments, and malaria-focused journal leadership roles.

PUBLICATIONS

Dr. Demissie authored over 64 peer-reviewed works, many focused directly on malaria. His malaria papers examine long-lasting insecticidal nets, malaria in maternal populations, and malaria behavioral studies. He’s contributed malaria systematic reviews and malaria clinical trials that shape malaria control discourse. His malaria works are indexed in high-impact journals, and malaria is a keyword in nearly every publication. He authored malaria chapters and malaria reports cited globally. His malaria bibliometric record includes hundreds of malaria citations. Each malaria study by Dr. Demissie pushes forward malaria understanding, contributing substantially to malaria reduction and malaria policy enhancement across sub-Saharan Africa.

  • Title: Poor radiological outcomes and associated factors among tibial shaft fracture patients treated with intramedullary nail fixation at Addis Ababa Burn, Emergency and Trauma Hospital, Ethiopia
    Authors: Shugie, Y.; Kebede, S.; Adugna, F.; Demissie, D.B.; Desta, T.
    Journal: Frontiers in Surgery

  • Title: Prevalence of ventilator-associated pneumonia and associated factors among intubated adult patients admitted in public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a facility-based retrospective study design
    Authors: Estibel Mengist Tegegne; Birhanu Chekol Gete; Dereje Bayissa Demissie
    Journal: Frontiers in Medicine

  • Title: Attitude towards assisted reproductive technology: acceptance of donors eggs, sperms, and embryos as treatment of human infertility: a systematic review and meta-analysis
    Authors: Demissei, D.B.; Biratu, T.D.; Gamshe, E.N.; Deressa, A.T.
    Journal: Reproductive Health

  • Title: Intensive Care Unit Dialysis Practice, Clinical Outcomes, and Associate Factors Among Critically Ill Patients at St.Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A Prospective Cohort Study Design
    Authors: Getahun, Z.; Demissie, D.B.; Sulan, M.; Tufa, M.K.; Laytin, A.; Mehari, M.
    Journal: Research Square

  • Title: Magnitude, disparity, and predictors of poor-quality antenatal care service: A systematic review and meta-analysis
    Authors: Demissie, D.B.; Molla, G.; Tiruneh Tiyare, F.; Badacho, A.S.; Tadele, A.
    Journal: SAGE Open Medicine

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, Dr. Demissie is a malaria thought leader whose malaria scholarship, malaria education, and malaria interventions leave an enduring impact. His malaria experience spans local malaria challenges to global malaria frameworks. Dr. Demissie remains committed to malaria excellence—mentoring malaria researchers, publishing malaria science, and advising malaria strategies. His malaria contributions are embedded in the broader landscape of global health. With malaria positioned as a pressing issue, Dr. Demissie’s role in malaria discourse is increasingly vital. He envisions a malaria-free world driven by informed malaria actions, rigorous malaria research, and inclusive malaria policies. Dr. Demissie’s legacy is a malaria legacy.

Yang Cheng – Malaria – Best Researcher Award

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Yang Cheng - Malaria - Best Researcher Award

Institute for Prevention and Control of Tropical Diseases and Chronic Diseases, Hainan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention - China

AUTHOR PROFILE 

SCOPUS

EARLY ACADEMIC ROOTS 🎓

Dr. Yang Cheng’s academic journey began with a profound interest in medicine and parasitology. Born in May 1986, he pursued his Bachelor’s degree in Clinical Medicine from Bengbu Medical College, China, graduating in 2009. Motivated by the complex biology of parasites and their interactions with human hosts, he pursued a Ph.D. in Human Parasitology at Kangwon National University, South Korea, and obtained his doctorate in 2014. His time abroad broadened his exposure to international research perspectives, laying the groundwork for a robust academic career. Post-Ph.D., Dr. Cheng further honed his expertise through a postdoctoral research position at the prestigious NIH-NIAID (USA) from 2014 to 2016. This phase was instrumental in sharpening his scientific acumen, allowing him to work with globally respected researchers in immunology and infectious diseases. His diverse academic background—spanning Asia and the United States—prepared him to tackle global parasitic diseases with a cross-disciplinary approach. With each academic milestone, Dr. Cheng cultivated a deepening focus on malaria infection and host immune response, eventually positioning himself as a key thought leader in tropical disease research.

PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY & LEADERSHIP 🧑‍🔬

Dr. Cheng’s professional trajectory is distinguished by leadership roles and impactful research. In 2016, he became an Associate Professor at Jiangnan University, Wuxi, China, where he also assumed the role of Chief Leader of the Pathogenic Infection and Immunity Laboratory. His leadership extends to Hainan, where he directs the Institute for Prevention and Control of Tropical Diseases and Chronic Diseases at the Hainan Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention. His dual appointments reflect his commitment to both academic advancement and public health application. Beyond titles, Dr. Cheng has led numerous high-profile research initiatives. He currently heads multiple funded projects, including grants from the Natural Science Foundation of China, Jiangsu Province, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and Central Universities' Fundamental Research Funds. His ability to manage interdisciplinary research, mentor junior scientists, and lead disease prevention programs solidifies his reputation as a leader in the field. Balancing lab discovery with field implementation, Dr. Cheng bridges research with policy and practice, especially in endemic regions.

RESEARCH EXCELLENCE IN MALARIA & IMMUNOLOGY 🧬

At the heart of Dr. Cheng’s career lies his passion for understanding malaria pathogenesis and immune response. His work focuses on four interconnected areas: the invasion mechanisms of Plasmodium, the host’s immune response and immune evasion, screening of malaria vaccine candidates, and public prevention of parasitic diseases. Through a combination of molecular biology, immunology, and epidemiology, he has advanced knowledge in how Plasmodium interacts with host cells and evades immune detection. His research has resulted in over 20 SCI-indexed publications as first or corresponding author, underscoring both volume and scientific rigor. Notably, his recent work has revealed important roles for proteins such as PvMSP1P-19, PvTRAg23, and GAMA in malaria pathogenesis and immune modulation. By identifying targets for potential vaccines and therapeutics, Dr. Cheng's contributions support global efforts to eradicate malaria. His innovative experiments, often involving collaborative research teams, have been well-recognized in journals such as The Journal of Biological Chemistry, Frontiers in Immunology, and Infection and Immunity. Dr. Cheng's research doesn’t just decode molecular interactions—it creates practical pathways for disease control strategies.

GLOBAL COLLABORATIONS & SCIENTIFIC IMPACT 🌏

Dr. Cheng has actively collaborated across borders, enhancing the global footprint of his research. His postdoctoral tenure at the NIH-NIAID fostered early international experience, but his collaborations have since extended through participation in multi-national conferences, international grants, and co-authored studies. Notably, his research supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation highlights global trust in his work’s applicability to malaria control. Additionally, his papers often include international co-authors from diverse regions such as Africa, Korea, and Southeast Asia, indicating the geographic relevance and appeal of his findings. His participation in One Health discussions and COVID-19 response analysis showcases his versatility and responsiveness to emerging global threats. Dr. Cheng’s research on the genetic diversity and immunogenicity of Plasmodium species imported from Africa to China speaks to his role in transcontinental disease tracking. These partnerships have enabled knowledge transfer and capacity building in endemic regions, strengthening public health infrastructures. By working with global teams, Dr. Cheng has become a conduit for scientific exchange, policy dialogue, and technological innovation in tropical medicine.

AWARDS AND DISTINCTIONS 🏅

Recognition of Dr. Cheng’s outstanding research and leadership is reflected in the accolades he has received. In 2014, he was honored with the PhD of Excellence by Kangwon National University, a testament to his exceptional doctoral work. Six years later, in 2020, he was named Honor Young Scientist Scholar at Jiangnan University, affirming his continued contribution to academic research and student mentorship. He also received the Science and Technology Award from the China General Chamber of Commerce the same year, which acknowledged his applied scientific efforts and innovation in health-related research. These awards highlight his dual strengths: theoretical rigor and practical impact. Dr. Cheng’s ability to transform complex research into public health strategies, particularly in parasitic disease control, has been critical in earning these distinctions. His awards not only validate his contributions but also set a benchmark for emerging researchers under his mentorship. As a role model and thought leader, he has cultivated a research environment focused on excellence, integrity, and social relevance.

SCIENTIFIC CONTRIBUTIONS & PUBLICATIONS 📚

Dr. Cheng’s publication record is both prolific and impactful, with over 20 SCI-indexed articles that span molecular parasitology, immunology, and public health. His 2024 study in The Journal of Biological Chemistry revealed how PvMSP1P-19 binds with membrane proteins band3 and CD71, advancing our understanding of Plasmodium vivax reticulocyte invasion. In another 2024 paper in Infection and Immunity, he examined the interaction between PySRA and macrophage receptors, shedding light on how malaria parasites manipulate host immune responses. His interdisciplinary approach also led to studies on PvTRAg23’s effect on spleen fibroblasts, COVID-19 epidemiology, and immune signaling pathways like cGAS-STING. His work demonstrates a continuous thread of innovation—from bench research to field-level application. Each publication not only contributes to scientific discourse but also serves as a building block for vaccine development, diagnostic tool refinement, and epidemiological forecasting. His research frequently bridges basic science and translational outcomes, with far-reaching implications for disease surveillance and health policy.

LEGACY AND FUTURE ASPIRATIONS 🔮

Dr. Cheng stands at the forefront of infectious disease research with a legacy defined by innovation, leadership, and global vision. His future trajectory promises continued advancement in malaria vaccine development, immune evasion mechanisms, and public health interventions. As Director of a key disease control institute and a research lab leader, he is well-positioned to influence both academic inquiry and practical policy. He envisions building a multidisciplinary center for tropical diseases, incorporating genomics, immunology, and big data analytics to combat emerging parasitic threats. Moreover, he remains committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists, creating a ripple effect of knowledge and skill development across borders. With growing international collaborations, sustained publication momentum, and a strong foundation in both theory and practice, Dr. Cheng’s legacy is still in the making—one that aligns with global health goals and scientific excellence.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

  • Title: Proteomic profiling of spleen in rat infected with Clonorchis sinensis using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry analysis
    Authors: S. Han, Su; J. Wan, Jie; X. Zhang, Xiaoli; J. Wu, Jianlin; R. Chen, Rui
    Journal: Acta Tropica
  • Title: MicroRNAs in opisthorchiids and their definitive hosts: Current Status and Perspectives
    Authors: X. Li, Xiang; J. Ding, Jian; X. Zhang, Xiaoli; J. Cao, Jianping; S. Han, Su
    Journal: [Journal not specified] (Full text link is disabled, and journal name not shown)
  • Title: Plasmodium vivax tryptophan-rich antigen reduces type I collagen secretion via the NF-κBp65 pathway in splenic fibroblasts
    Authors: W. Kong, Weizhong; H. Zhang, Hangye; Y. Sun, Yifan; S. Han, Su; Y. Cheng, Yang
    Journal: Parasites and Vectors
  • Title: ASIC1 promotes migration and invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma via the PRKACA/AP-1 signaling pathway
    Authors: Y. Liu, Youyi; B. Wang, Boshi; Y. Cheng, Yang; Y. He, Youzhao; C. Jin, Cheng
    Journal: Carcinogenesis
  • Title: The Plasmodium vivax MSP1P-19 is involved in binding of reticulocytes through interactions with the membrane proteins band3 and CD71
    Authors: S. Zuo, Shenghuan; J. Lu, Jiachen; Y. Sun, Yifan; E. Han, Eun-Taek; Y. Cheng, Yang
    Journal: Journal of Biological Chemistry

Gouvidé Jean GBAGUIDI – Malaria – Best Researcher Award

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Gouvidé Jean GBAGUIDI - Malaria - Best Researcher Award

West African Science Service on Climate change and Adapted Land Use(WASCAL) - Benin

 

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID

🌍 EARLY ACADEMIC ROOTS AND FORMATIVE EDUCATION

Gouvidé Jean Gbaguidi was born on March 8, 1989, in the Republic of Benin. His early academic pursuits reflect a steady and determined climb through the sciences. Beginning with a Scientific Baccalaureate in 2011, he progressed to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry-Biology-Geology, followed by a Master of Science in Natural Sciences with a focus on Biology in 2016. Not one to rest on accomplishments, he pursued a professional Master’s degree in Hydrology, specializing in Ecohydrology, highlighting his interest in the environment and water systems. This academic journey laid the groundwork for his PhD studies in Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management, undertaken at the West African Science Service Center on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL) at the University of Lomé and the Hamburg University of Applied Sciences. His doctoral research, focusing on malaria risk modelling and community vulnerability in the context of climate change, signified his early commitment to impactful interdisciplinary science. Jean's education not only equipped him with deep scientific understanding but also empowered him with cross-border perspectives through training programs in Ghana, Kenya, Germany, and India. Fluent in both French and English, he emerged from his academic path with the tools necessary to address global health and climate challenges. His educational foundation was never merely about degrees—it was a launchpad for transformative research with a global vision and regional relevance, particularly tailored to West Africa’s unique climate and public health dynamics.

🧪 SCIENTIFIC CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS

Gouvidé Jean Gbaguidi's research stands at the intersection of public health, climate science, and mathematical modelling. His doctoral thesis focused on malaria risk prediction and vulnerability assessment in Northern Benin, a region facing intense climate variability. By integrating climate data with health indicators, he offered pioneering insights into how malaria transmission dynamics are evolving under environmental stressors. His expertise is evident in multiple peer-reviewed publications that explore the use of remote sensing, vegetation indices, and geographic information systems to build predictive models for malaria outbreaks. A hallmark of his work is the practical application of advanced tools like EMOD (Epidemiological Model of Diseases), VECTRI, and satellite data, enabling more accurate forecasting of disease patterns. Jean's publications are not only scientifically robust but also socially relevant, addressing both the ecological and human dimensions of malaria vulnerability. His research has been widely recognized, appearing in top journals such as Scientific Reports, BMC Public Health, Malaria Journal, and One Health Outlook. His work emphasizes data-driven strategies that inform local interventions and regional health policies. Furthermore, his collaborative efforts with prominent scientists and institutions enhance the translational value of his research. Whether through bibliometric analysis of climate-related infectious diseases or scoping reviews on African educational curricula, Jean consistently seeks to bridge gaps between research, policy, and practice. His scientific focus is a model of integrated health-environment research that responds to the real-world challenges of disease in the Global South.

🧠 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS AND TEACHING IMPACT

Jean’s career trajectory is marked by a blend of academic rigor and practical engagement. Since December 2024, he has served as a Main Instructor in mathematical modelling of malaria at Iba Der Thiam University in Senegal, where he trains future African scientists to use cutting-edge disease models like EMOD. This role is part of a broader regional initiative supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. His teaching combines theory and practice, empowering students to simulate disease dynamics and assess intervention strategies in real-world scenarios. From July 2023 to July 2024, he also served as Project Manager at the Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, a role that honed his leadership and cross-cultural communication skills. Jean’s earlier roles included working at the Ministry of Energy, Water, and Mining in Benin, as well as participating in climate change training programs at UN institutions. These experiences reflect his multidisciplinary outlook and commitment to integrating science with policy. In addition to his academic responsibilities, Jean has engaged in several capacity-building programs across Africa, training in statistical tools like R and Python, as well as GIS and remote sensing technologies. These competencies have made him a valued contributor in regional training networks such as RUFORUM and UNITAR. Jean’s professional endeavors underscore a broader mission: to democratize access to advanced scientific tools and to mentor the next generation of African climate and health researchers. His impact is not only in publications but also in the classrooms and labs where future leaders are shaped.

📈 INNOVATIONS IN MALARIA MODELLING AND DATA SCIENCE

A defining feature of Jean Gbaguidi’s work is his innovation in malaria modelling. At the core of his PhD and ongoing research is the use of mathematical and statistical modelling to forecast malaria transmission under different climate change scenarios. He harnesses platforms like EMOD from the Institute for Disease Modeling and VECTRI to build simulation frameworks that incorporate climate, health, and socio-economic data. These models serve not only academic purposes but also provide actionable intelligence for public health officials and policy makers. His groundbreaking studies, such as the evaluation of the RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine using modelling approaches, illustrate how data science can predict health outcomes and optimize interventions in resource-limited settings. Jean’s ability to link large datasets—from satellite imagery to epidemiological records—makes his models both dynamic and adaptable. His training in QGIS, AVHRR-based vegetation health indices, and Climate Data Operator (CDO) software enables him to analyze multi-layered geospatial data with precision. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, his research has generated early warning systems for malaria outbreaks, a potentially life-saving tool for health ministries in vulnerable regions. By championing real-time analytics and predictive modelling, Jean is setting new benchmarks for how infectious disease risks are assessed and managed in the Global South. His contribution to the fusion of artificial intelligence, climate modelling, and public health surveillance represents a frontier in epidemiological research, emphasizing innovation for sustainable impact.

🏅 HONORS, PUBLICATIONS AND GLOBAL RECOGNITION

Jean Gbaguidi’s accomplishments are recognized through a distinguished body of scientific publications and international engagement. He has authored and co-authored over nine peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals across climate science, public health, and infectious disease modelling. Among them are widely cited works such as “Potential Impact of Climate Change on the Transmission of Malaria in Northern Benin” and “Towards an Intelligent Malaria Outbreak Warning Model,” which have shaped discussions on climate-linked health vulnerabilities in West Africa. His work has also been accepted in reputable journals like One Health Outlook, Discover Social Science and Health, and Critical Public Health. Jean's participation in global conferences—including SYMMA 2024 in Senegal, the WRCP Open Science Conference in Rwanda, and scientific days at the University of Lomé—reflects his active role in the international research community. His scholarly contributions are coupled with recognition from training bodies like UNITAR, WHO, and RUFORUM, which have supported his professional development and capacity-building missions. These accolades are not just personal milestones; they serve as indicators of the global relevance and scientific merit of his work. Through collaborative research and publication with renowned academics such as Walter Leal Filho and Nikita Topanou, Jean has cemented his position as a trusted voice in the discourse on climate-resilient health systems. His rising ORCID profile and active presence in scholarly networks ensure that his research continues to influence both academic and policy domains on an international scale.

🌐 REGIONAL IMPACT AND CROSS-BORDER COLLABORATION

Gouvidé Jean Gbaguidi is not just a national asset for Benin but a regional thought leader in climate-health intersection research. His work bridges geographical, institutional, and disciplinary boundaries. By collaborating with institutions across Benin, Togo, Senegal, Germany, and Ghana, Jean has cultivated a network that amplifies the regional impact of his work. As a bilingual researcher fluent in English and French, he seamlessly integrates into diverse academic and policy environments. His leadership roles, including as a project manager and instructor in international contexts, reflect his capacity to translate research into cross-border dialogue and action. Jean is also actively engaged in pan-African training efforts, contributing to capacity building initiatives through RUFORUM, UNITAR, and university-led workshops. His focus on the vulnerability of West African communities to climate-sensitive diseases like malaria has made his work highly policy-relevant. Beyond research, he has contributed to curriculum assessments for African universities, evaluating how effectively educational institutions address the nexus of climate and health. These efforts aim to embed resilience thinking into Africa’s academic and policy frameworks. Jean’s regional vision is anchored in equity, sustainability, and scientific excellence. Whether through data-sharing platforms, multi-country modelling projects, or academic mobility, he champions an integrated African response to public health threats exacerbated by climate change. His work underscores that local problems require regional solidarity and innovative thinking—principles that Jean embodies both in practice and scholarship.

🔮 LEGACY, VISION AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking ahead, Jean Gbaguidi’s trajectory points toward leadership in the global health and climate resilience landscape. With a recently defended PhD and a wealth of interdisciplinary experience, he is positioned to pioneer innovative policies, technologies, and frameworks that reduce disease burdens in climate-sensitive regions. His vision extends beyond academic publication to the co-creation of knowledge with communities, health authorities, and fellow researchers. He aims to scale early warning systems for malaria to other parts of sub-Saharan Africa, incorporating real-time environmental monitoring and artificial intelligence. Jean is also committed to shaping education by advocating for the integration of climate-health modules into African university curricula, ensuring that future generations of scientists are prepared for the challenges ahead. His aspiration includes mentoring young researchers across the continent, particularly those in underrepresented communities. By combining fieldwork, big data analytics, and participatory science, Jean envisions a future where policies are informed by robust, context-specific evidence. As he expands his collaborations and influences, his legacy will likely rest in his ability to translate complex science into tools that save lives, influence public policy, and build local capacities. His story is a testament to how a researcher from a small West African town can influence global dialogues on infectious disease, climate justice, and sustainable development. Jean Gbaguidi stands not only as a scholar but as a catalyst for change—ready to inspire and lead a new era of science-driven social transformation.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

  • Title: Unleashing the power of intelligence: revolutionizing malaria outbreak preparedness with an advanced warning system in Benin, West Africa
    Authors: Gouvidé Jean Gbaguidi, Nikita Topanou, Walter Leal Filho, Komi Agboka, Guillaume K. Ketoh
    Journal: Archives of Public Health
    Publication Date: 2025-04-10

 

  • Title: Money for health: handling the costs of climate change to African health systems
    Authors: Walter Leal Filho, Gouvidé Jean Gbaguidi, Wassa Diarrassouba, Pim Martens
    Journal: Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition
    Publication Date: 2025-03-26

 

  • Title: Assessing vulnerability to malaria in the context of climate change: a comprehensive study in northern Benin, West Africa
    Authors: Gouvidé Jean Gbaguidi, Nikita Topanou, Walter Leal Filho, Guillaume K. Ketoh
    Journal: Discover Social Science and Health
    Publication Date: 2025-03-10

 

  • Title: The role of climatic changes in the emergence and re-emergence of infectious diseases: bibliometric analysis and literature-supported studies on zoonoses
    Authors: Walter Leal Filho, Gustavo J. Nagy, Gouvidé Jean Gbaguidi, Shlomit Paz, Maria Alzira Pimenta Dinis, Johannes M. Luetz, Ayyoob Sharifi
    Journal: One Health Outlook
    Publication Date: 2025-02-25

 

  • Title: Climate Change-Related Disaster Risk Events in Togo: A Systematic Review
    Authors: Massama-Esso P. Assiah, Gouvidé Jean Gbaguidi, Mouhamed Idrissou, Kossivi Hounake
    Journal: American Journal of Climate Change
    Publication Date: 2024

Chenyu Zhu – Global Health and Infectious Disease Burden – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Infectious

 

Chenyu Zhu - Global Health and Infectious Disease Burden - Best Researcher Award

Jinan university - China 

AUTHOR PROFILE 

scopus

🌱 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Chenyu Zhu began her academic journey with a focused curiosity in the intricate relationship between environmental science and human health. As a master’s candidate at Jinan University, she chose to specialize in Environment and Health, an area demanding interdisciplinary knowledge and scientific rigor. Her academic path was marked by early excellence, culminating in her recognition at the International Graduate Forum on Environmental Toxicology, where she earned First Place in 2023. This achievement highlighted not just her scholarly promise, but also her dedication to exploring the toxicological mechanisms behind pollutants and their impact on public health. This early phase of academic life laid a strong foundation for her future contributions in the field, combining both theoretical insight and practical research. Supported by a robust academic environment and consistent mentorship, she swiftly developed a unique research identity that bridged environmental toxicology with molecular biology.

🔬 RESEARCH FOCUS AND INNOVATION

Zhu’s primary research area centers on RNA epigenetic modifications in the context of environmental pollution-induced diseases. Her groundbreaking work investigates the mechanisms of cellular senescence triggered by toxic pollutants, particularly focusing on RNA methylation types such as m6A and m7G. Her involvement in three major Guangdong Natural Science Foundation projects speaks to her active role in uncovering how molecules like TRMT61B and METTL14 influence mitochondrial and cellular function under environmental stressors. These research initiatives have deepened our understanding of molecular aging and the role pollutants play in accelerating degenerative diseases. Her innovations go beyond lab work—they offer critical insights that may inform therapeutic strategies for mitigating public health risks associated with environmental contaminants. Her ability to decode complex biological interactions places her at the frontier of environmental health sciences and positions her research as vital for pollution-related disease prevention and early intervention.

📚 SCHOLARLY CONTRIBUTIONS

Despite being early in her academic career, Zhu has already published five peer-reviewed SCI-indexed papers that address key biological and toxicological questions. Her publications span reputable journals, including Scientific Reports, Food Science & Nutrition, and Biochimica et Biophysica Acta Reviews on Cancer. These papers explore pivotal topics like RNA methylation’s role in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, premature cellular senescence, cancer, and even liver diseases linked to PFAS exposure. Each article contributes unique molecular insights and collectively, they shape a more nuanced understanding of the cellular response to environmental stress. Through these studies, Zhu has established herself as a credible and impactful voice in environmental toxicology. Her work not only adds to academic literature but also offers potential pathways for diagnostics and targeted interventions in environmental health. The breadth and depth of her research speak volumes about her dedication to contributing meaningfully to her field.

🏆 ACCOLADES AND RECOGNITION

Recognition for Zhu’s contributions has been swift and well-deserved. Her award-winning presentation at the International Graduate Forum on Environmental Toxicology in 2023 was a testament to her ability to communicate complex scientific ideas with clarity and impact. This distinction, combined with her inclusion in the prestigious Wiley China Excellent Author Program, underscores her rising influence in the research community. These accolades are more than ceremonial; they validate the originality and relevance of her work. They also provide her with platforms to reach broader audiences and network with experts worldwide. Such honors are particularly significant for early-career scientists, offering both encouragement and credibility. Zhu’s ability to translate molecular science into practical insights for environmental health makes her an exemplary young researcher. Her recognitions are not just markers of past achievements—they are milestones pointing toward a promising scientific future.

🧠 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Zhu’s career growth has been guided by hands-on research involvement and consistent academic mentorship. Her participation in multiple Guangdong Natural Science Foundation projects reflects an early integration into high-level scientific inquiry. This experience has enabled her to refine experimental methodologies, analyze complex biological systems, and develop interdisciplinary perspectives. Moreover, her role as a member of the Chinese Society of Toxicology signifies her commitment to staying connected with professional networks and emerging scientific conversations. Though still in the early phase of her career, she exemplifies professional maturity, demonstrated through her contributions to collaborative projects and her proactive engagement with scientific communities. Her trajectory is not just about individual achievement—it reflects an earnest commitment to leveraging science in service of public health and environmental safety. With each research milestone, she moves closer to becoming a leading expert in environmental toxicology and RNA-based disease mechanisms.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Chenyu Zhu’s work carries both scientific and societal relevance. By focusing on the molecular underpinnings of pollution-related diseases, she directly addresses one of the world’s most urgent public health challenges. Her studies reveal how environmental toxins contribute to aging and disease through RNA modifications, which could revolutionize how we understand environmental risk at the cellular level. This intersectional work has the potential to shape policy, inform risk assessments, and guide the development of new treatments. As environmental health continues to gain global importance, Zhu’s research offers a much-needed bridge between molecular science and actionable solutions. Her findings contribute to early detection strategies and potential biomarker development, making her impact both forward-looking and practical. Through her scholarly dedication, she is helping to build a safer, more scientifically informed world—one cellular mechanism at a time.

🚀 LEGACY AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Looking ahead, Zhu Chenyu is poised to make enduring contributions to environmental toxicology and public health. Her strong foundation in RNA epigenetics positions her to expand into developing diagnostic tools and interventions that can detect or reverse pollution-induced cellular damage. Future research may delve deeper into gene-environment interactions, aging-related diseases, or the long-term effects of emerging contaminants. She envisions using her scientific skills not just for academic acclaim, but to advocate for cleaner environments and healthier populations. With her clear sense of purpose and proven research capability, Zhu stands ready to shape the next generation of environmental health innovations. Her legacy will likely be defined by how she uses cutting-edge science to tackle real-world problems. By combining curiosity, expertise, and compassion, she is not only shaping her own career but also contributing to a global shift toward evidence-based environmental protection.

NOTABLE PUBLICATION

Title: RNA m7G methylation regulators and targets significantly contribute to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Authors: Chenyu Zhu, Luyi Tan, Xinyu Zhang, Yibo Chen, Wenjuan Zhang

Journal: Scientific Reports

Year: 2025