Somporn Techangamsuwan | Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Somporn Techangamsuwan | Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Professor | Chulalongkorn University | Thailand

Prof. Dr. Somporn Techangamsuwan (DVM, MSc, PhD, DTBVP) is a distinguished Professor in the Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.) from Chulalongkorn University in 1999, followed by a Master of Science in Clinical Pathology from Mahidol University in 2003, and a Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Germany, in 2009. She further achieved the Thai Board of Veterinary Pathology (DTBVP) in 2016. Over the course of her academic career, she has progressed from instructor (1999–2009) to professor (since 2018), while also serving in key administrative roles including Assistant Dean of Postgraduate Studies (2016–2021) and Assistant Dean of Research Affairs (2021–present). Her research interests encompass veterinary pathology, infectious diseases, oncology, molecular diagnostics, and clinical pathology, with significant contributions to the understanding of viral infections in companion animals. Her research skills include molecular characterization, virus detection, diagnostic assay development, and neuropathological analysis. Prof. Somporn has an impressive record of scholarly publications, with an H-index of 22 (2021–2025), and has served as an invited editorial board member for Veterinary Pathology and Veterinary Sciences. Her exceptional achievements have earned her numerous awards, including the Outstanding Research Unit Award (2025), multiple Best Presentation and Excellent Research Awards from national and international veterinary congresses, and international recognition from the American Society of Microbiology. Throughout her career, Prof. Somporn has demonstrated excellence in veterinary pathology research and education, significantly advancing diagnostic and molecular veterinary science in Thailand and beyond. Her dedication to academic leadership, innovative research, and mentoring has established her as a leading figure in veterinary pathology and infectious disease research in Southeast Asia.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

  • Pratakpiriya, W., Seki, F., Otsuki, N., Sakai, K., Fukuhara, H., Katamoto, H., … & Techangamsuwan, S. (2012). Nectin4 is an epithelial cell receptor for canine distemper virus and involved in neurovirulence. Journal of Virology, 86(18), 10207–10210. https://doi.org/10.1128/JVI.01216-12 Citations: 153

  • Lempp, C., Spitzbarth, I., Puff, C., Cana, A., Kegler, K., Techangamsuwan, S., … & Baumgärtner, W. (2014). New aspects of the pathogenesis of canine distemper leukoencephalitis. Viruses, 6(7), 2571–2601. https://doi.org/10.3390/v6072571 Citations: 142

  • Keawcharoen, J., Techangamsuwan, S., Ponpornpisit, A., Lombardini, E. D., Patchimasiri, T., Pirarat, N., … & Oraveerakul, K. (2015). Genetic characterization of a betanodavirus isolated from a clinical disease outbreak in farm‐raised tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in Thailand. Journal of Fish Diseases, 38(1), 49–54. https://doi.org/10.1111/jfd.12212 Citations: 75

  • Piewbang, C., Jo, W. K., Puff, C., van der Vries, E., Kesdangsakonwut, S., Rungsipipat, A., & Techangamsuwan, S. (2018). Novel canine circovirus strains from Thailand: Evidence for genetic recombination. Scientific Reports, 8(1), 7524. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-018-25882-3 Citations: 72

  • Niwetpathomwat, A., Kaewthamasorn, M., Tiawsirisup, S., Techangamsuwan, S., & Nuchprayoon, S. (2007). A retrospective study of the clinical hematology and the serum biochemistry tests made on canine dirofilariasis cases in an animal hospital population in Bangkok, Thailand. Research in Veterinary Science, 82(3), 364–369. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rvsc.2006.09.002 Citations: 66

Nihal Muneer | Pathology | Best Researcher Award

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

Nihal Muneer is a capable and passionate candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Their comprehensive clinical skills, evidence of research contributions, and commitment to professional development all align with the qualities expected of an award-winning researcher in speech-language pathology. With a few areas for further development, Nihal’s profile is strong, making them a commendable candidate who shows promise for future contributions to the field. Their dedication to evidence-based practice and continual learning makes them deserving of recognition and support for continued professional growth.

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.