Mr. Nihal Muneer | Pathology | Best Researcher Award
Speech & Swallow Pathologist at Dayad General Hospital, India
Nihal Muneer is a dedicated Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) with a focus on evidence-based care for patients with speech, language, and swallowing disorders. With a strong academic background and a series of relevant internships and professional roles, Nihal has accumulated valuable experience in both clinical and research settings. Their work includes comprehensive assessments, therapeutic interventions, and the publication of research articles, notably in reputable journals. With certifications in advanced techniques like Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) and transgender voice therapy, Nihal brings a broad and specialized skill set to the field. They are also engaged in scientific communication, presenting findings at national conferences and contributing to professional knowledge in SLP.
Professional Profile
Education
Nihal Muneer pursued his Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (MSc SLP) from NITTE Institute of Speech and Hearing (2022–2024), where he honed his research and clinical skills in speech, language, and swallowing disorders. His studies focused on advanced therapeutic techniques and comprehensive assessment methods, preparing him for multifaceted roles in clinical and academic settings. Prior to this, Nihal completed a Bachelor of Science in Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology (BASLP) from the Naseema Institute of Speech and Hearing (2018–2022) with a CGPA of 6.95. His undergraduate studies laid a solid foundation in diagnosing and treating communication disorders, supplemented by hands-on experience in internships and research projects. Throughout his academic journey, Nihal actively engaged in extracurricular certifications and value-added courses, demonstrating his commitment to lifelong learning and contributing to the field of speech-language pathology.
Experience
Nihal Muneer has extensive experience in speech-language pathology across various healthcare settings. He currently serves as a Senior Speech & Swallow Pathologist at Daya General Hospital in Thrissur, Kerala, where he specializes in diagnosing and treating complex swallowing and speech disorders. During his postgraduate program at K.S. Hegde Medical Academy in Mangalore, Nihal gained two years of rigorous clinical training, focusing on advanced assessments and therapeutic interventions. His experience extends to roles at Thrissur Speech and Hearing Clinic, where he provided targeted care to diverse populations, including pediatric, adult, and geriatric patients. Nihal also completed internships at reputed institutions like Health Care Global Oncology, Bangalore, and the Spastic Society of Karnataka, gaining hands-on experience with specialized tools and techniques. This extensive background has equipped him with a well-rounded skill set for addressing a wide range of communication and swallowing disorders.
Research Interests
Nihal Muneer’s research is centered on improving diagnostic and therapeutic methods in speech-language pathology, with a particular focus on voice and swallowing disorders. His recent projects explore electroglottographic and acoustic measures to enhance voice assessment accuracy, and his dissertation examines the unique voice characteristics of female speech-language pathologists. Nihal is also dedicated to understanding clinical workload impacts on therapy effectiveness, as seen in his survey-based research on SLP workloads. His work aims to bridge gaps between clinical practice and academic research, ensuring that evidence-based practices are continuously refined for better patient outcomes. Through his publications and conference presentations, Nihal contributes valuable insights to the field, particularly in personalized care techniques for patients with complex communication and swallowing needs.
Awards and Honors
Nihal Muneer has achieved several accolades in the field of speech-language pathology, highlighting his dedication and contributions. His research article on voice disorders, published in the Journal of Voice (Elsevier), was recognized in academic circles for advancing insights into effective therapeutic techniques. At the 15th National Conference of the Indian Speech Language & Hearing Association (Kerala Branch) in 2023, Nihal presented his innovative study on electroglottographic and acoustic measures of voice, earning praise from peers and senior professionals. He also presented a research-based paper titled “A Close Look at Speech Language Pathologist’s Workload” at KMC Mangalore, showcasing his research’s practical applications in optimizing clinical workloads. These achievements reflect Nihal’s commitment to evidence-based practice and clinical innovation, making him a recognized figure in the field.
Skills
Nihal Muneer is proficient in a wide range of skills essential for speech-language pathology. His clinical abilities include advanced voice therapy, dysphagia management, and fluency shaping therapy. Nihal is skilled in using specialized tools like FEES (Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing), PRAAT, Dr. Speech, Spirometry, and Nasometry, which enhance his diagnostic accuracy and treatment effectiveness. His expertise extends to managing diverse patient populations, including those with childhood and adult language disorders, motor speech disorders, and post-laryngectomy rehabilitation needs. Nihal is also an excellent communicator, collaborating effectively with caregivers, parents, and other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive support networks for his patients. These skills, combined with his research abilities, make him a well-rounded professional dedicated to continuous learning and patient-centered care.
Conclusion
Publications Top Noted
“Profiling Voice Characteristics of Female Speech-Language Pathologists” published in the Journal of Voice, you can find the citation details as follows:
DOI: 10.1016/j.jvoice.2024.09.027
Authors: Nihal Muneer, along with Dr. Srushti Shabnam (his advisor for this research)
Journal Issue Date: October 2024
Published in: Journal of Voice, a peer-reviewed journal known for its focus on voice science and disorders.