Chizaram Onyeaghala | Infectious Diseases | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Chizaram Onyeaghala | Infectious Diseases | Best Researcher Award

Consultant Physician | University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital | Nigeria

Dr. Chizaram A. Onyeaghala is a Consultant Physician and Infectious Diseases Specialist at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. His expertise lies in infectious diseases, HIV medicine, emerging and re-emerging infections, and global health. With a strong academic foundation, he holds qualifications from prestigious institutions, including the West African College of Physicians, the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria, and advanced certifications in Vaccinology, Genomics, and Global Health from Stellenbosch University, Liverpool John Moores University, and the Royal College of Physicians, London. Dr. Onyeaghala’s research portfolio reflects a robust engagement with global health challenges. His works, cited over 837 times with an h-index of 11 and i10-index of 12, have been published in top-tier journals such as The Lancet Infectious Diseases, European Respiratory Journal, and Clinical Infectious Diseases. His collaborations with renowned institutions, including the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Queen Mary University of London, and Washington University in St. Louis, underscore his commitment to international scientific partnership and multidisciplinary inquiry. He has contributed to several landmark studies on Mpox, COVID-19, tuberculosis, antimicrobial resistance, and Lassa fever, which have informed clinical practice and public health response strategies in Nigeria and beyond. As a lead clinician in WHO- and LSTM-funded studies, and a member of national technical working groups, his research and leadership have had tangible societal impact—enhancing epidemic preparedness, infection prevention, and community health resilience. Dr. Onyeaghala’s professional engagements extend to editorial and review roles for international journals and active membership in organizations such as IDSA, IAS, ESCMID, and NIDS. His growing scholarly influence, mentorship activities, and policy-driven research continue to strengthen global infectious disease control and scientific innovation.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus | ORCID | ResearchGate | LinkedIn

Featured Publications

  1. Mitjà, O., Alemany, A., Marks, M., Mora, J. I. L., Rodríguez-Aldama, J. C., Silva, M. S. T., Onyeaghala, C. A., et al. (2023). Mpox in people with advanced HIV infection: A global case series. The Lancet, 401(10380), 939–949. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(23)00273-3 — Citations: 480

  2. Ogoina, D., Dalhat, M. M., Denue, B. A., Okowa, M., Chika-Igwenyi, N. M., Onyeaghala, C. A., et al. (2023). Clinical characteristics and predictors of human mpox outcome during the 2022 outbreak in Nigeria: A cohort study. The Lancet Infectious Diseases, 23(12), 1418–1428. https://doi.org/10.1016/S1473-3099(23)00409-7 — Citations: 49

  3. Global Tuberculosis Network, Casco, N., Jorge, A. L., Palmero, D. J., Alffenaar, J. W., Fox, G. J., Onyeaghala, C. A., et al. (2023). Long-term outcomes of the global tuberculosis and COVID-19 co-infection cohort. European Respiratory Journal, 62(5). https://doi.org/10.1183/13993003.00925-2023 — Citations: 45

  4. Migliori, G. B., Visca, D., van den Boom, M., Tiberi, S., Silva, D. R., Centis, R., Onyeaghala, C. A., et al. (2021). Tuberculosis, COVID-19 and hospital admission: Consensus on pros and cons based on a review of the evidence. Pulmonology, 27(3), 248–256. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pulmoe.2020.12.016 — Citations: 41

  5. Haeuser, E., Byrne, S., Nguyen, J., Raggi, C., McLaughlin, S. A., Bisignano, C., Onyeaghala, C. A., et al. (2025). Global, regional, and national trends in routine childhood vaccination coverage from 1980 to 2023 with forecasts to 2030: A systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study. The Lancet. — Citations: 26

Daniele Lages | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Mrs . Daniele Lages | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Doutoranda at Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais , Brazil

Daniele dos Santos Lages is a dedicated Brazilian researcher specializing in public health, with a focus on epidemiology, particularly related to leprosy (hanseníase). Her work combines academic rigor with social impact, addressing neglected diseases and strengthening primary healthcare systems. She is fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, which allows her to collaborate across international boundaries. Daniele has received multiple academic honors, presented research at notable conferences, and published significant contributions on disease surveillance and public health policy. Her involvement in research groups, notably NEPHANS at UFMG, underlines her leadership in advancing public health research in Brazil. She has also completed various international and national health training programs, demonstrating a commitment to lifelong learning and capacity building. Daniele’s blend of academic achievement, research productivity, and social responsiveness positions her as an influential figure in public health, making her a strong candidate for recognition through research and academic excellence awards.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Daniele dos Santos Lages has pursued an outstanding academic path focused on nursing and public health at the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), one of Brazil’s top universities. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Nursing, followed by a specialization in Family Health (Residência Multiprofissional) from the same institution. She further advanced her academic qualifications by completing a Master’s degree and is currently a doctoral candidate in Nursing with a focus on Public Health at UFMG. Throughout her educational journey, she has consistently focused on public health issues, particularly in disease prevention and control, with a strong emphasis on leprosy. Her academic background is complemented by several national and international certifications in epidemiology, health surveillance, and neglected tropical diseases, many of which are issued by globally recognized bodies like WHO and PAHO. This combination of formal education and specialized training gives her a strong foundation for conducting impactful, evidence-based health research.

Professional Experience📝

Daniele has built a meaningful professional career around research and public health services, with an emphasis on leprosy control and primary healthcare strategies. She is an active member of the NEPHANS research group at UFMG, where she contributes to epidemiological studies, health surveillance analysis, and healthcare delivery systems. Her work includes data-driven policy evaluations and healthcare service assessments focused on vulnerable populations affected by neglected diseases. Daniele has authored and co-authored several academic papers and posters, many of which were presented at national and international conferences, receiving awards for scientific excellence. In addition to her research, she has participated in teaching, public health campaigns, and collaborative projects with health institutions and government agencies. Her hands-on experience with Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS) has informed her practical understanding of public health challenges. By combining academic insight with field engagement, Daniele bridges the gap between theory and practice, making her contributions highly relevant and applicable.

Research Interest🔎

Daniele dos Santos Lages is deeply committed to advancing research in public health, with her primary focus on the epidemiology of neglected tropical diseases, particularly leprosy (hanseníase). Her academic and professional endeavors revolve around disease surveillance, healthcare accessibility, health equity, and the effectiveness of Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS). Daniele is particularly interested in the social determinants of health, evaluating how poverty, education, and access to care affect disease prevalence and treatment outcomes. She explores the intersection of clinical practice and public policy to propose practical, evidence-based improvements in primary care. Her research integrates quantitative epidemiological data with qualitative insights from affected populations, aiming to inform public health strategies and reduce disease-related stigma. As a doctoral researcher, she is involved in multidisciplinary investigations that align with global health priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those concerning the elimination of neglected diseases and the promotion of universal health coverage.

Award and Honor🏆

Daniele dos Santos Lages has been recognized multiple times for her academic excellence and impactful research in public health. Among her accolades, she received awards for the best oral presentation at national conferences, highlighting her effective communication and the societal relevance of her work. She has also been granted scholarships and research support through prestigious programs like PROBIC/FAPEMIG, affirming the merit of her scientific inquiries. Her participation in highly competitive international training programs hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) further underscores her status as a distinguished emerging scholar. These programs focus on epidemiological intelligence, health surveillance, and strategies to combat neglected tropical diseases. Daniele’s consistent recognition reflects her commitment to scientific rigor, community health, and leadership within Brazil’s healthcare research community. These honors not only validate her contributions but also inspire her continued efforts to advance evidence-based practices in public health and epidemiology.

Research Skill🔬

Daniele dos Santos Lages possesses a robust set of research skills that equip her to address complex public health issues with analytical precision and social sensitivity. Her expertise spans epidemiological data analysis, qualitative and quantitative research design, health indicators assessment, and policy evaluation. She is proficient in statistical software and epidemiological tools used for surveillance and data interpretation, allowing her to derive actionable insights from large health datasets. Daniele also demonstrates strong competencies in scientific writing, grant proposal development, and knowledge translation for both academic and public audiences. She actively applies mixed-method approaches to explore healthcare access, disease distribution, and the effectiveness of Brazil’s health policies. In addition to technical skills, she excels in collaborative research, working across disciplines and institutions to contribute to national and international public health projects. Her fluency in Portuguese, English, and Spanish facilitates international collaboration, making her a versatile and globally relevant public health researcher.

Conclusion💡

Daniele dos Santos Lages exhibits exceptional promise and achievement as a public health researcher, particularly in the domain of leprosy surveillance and primary healthcare systems. Her strong academic background, dedication to neglected diseases, and proactive engagement in capacity-building initiatives mark her as a passionate and purpose-driven professional. Her research is not only scientifically relevant but socially responsive, aligning closely with global health equity goals. Although she would benefit from more diversified research themes and wider international exposure, her foundation is solid and future potential is significant. With continued interdisciplinary collaboration and publication in global platforms, Daniele is well-positioned to make substantial contributions to global public health. Therefore, she is a strong and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, especially within categories that recognize early-career excellence, commitment to social determinants of health, and contributions to underrepresented health issues in vulnerable populations. Her work exemplifies the blend of academic rigor and societal relevance that such awards aim to honor.

Publications Top Noted✍️

  • Title: A baixa escolaridade está associada ao aumento de incapacidades físicas no diagnóstico de hanseníase no Vale do Jequitinhonha
    Authors: D dos Santos Lages, BM Kerr, I de Caux Bueno, ENA Niitsuma, FCF Lana
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 51

  • Title: Spatial analysis of the epidemiological risk of leprosy in the municipalities of Minas Gerais
    Authors: IC Bueno, DS Lages, FCF Lana
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 12

  • Title: Profile of the leprosy endemic in the district of Murrupula, Nampula, Mozambique: A population-based study
    Authors: GC Ribeiro, DS Lages, ATC Lages, VB Souza, A Marega, FCF Lana, …
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 4

  • Title: Consistência do registro dos casos de hanseníase no Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação em Minas Gerais-período: 2017 a 2021
    Authors: GCS Reis, DS Lages, FCF Lana
    Year: 2024
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Avaliação do grau de incapacidade física por hanseníase em Minas Gerais
    Authors: D dos Santos Lages, BM Kerr, I de Caux Bueno, ENA Niitsuma, SL Vidal, …
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 2

  • Title: Spatial, Social and Serological Factors in the Prevalence and Risk of Leprosy in Areas of High Endemicity: An Integrative Review
    Authors: DS Lages, ICL Maciel, SL Vidal, FCF Lana
    Year: 2025
    Citations: Not listed (assumed 0 or pending)

  • Title: Análise da ocorrência de sífilis em gestantes em um município da Região Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte entre 2011 e 2021
    Authors: SL Dias, D dos Santos Lages, ICL Maciel, FCF Lana
    Year: 2025
    Citations: Not listed

  • Title: Correlation and Trends in Primary Health Care and Family Health Strategy Coverage of Leprosy Detection in Minas Gerais
    Authors: DS Lages, ICL Maciel, SL Vidal, FCF Lana
    Year: 2025
    Citations: Not listed

  • Title: An interrupted time series study of the leprosy case detection in Brazil after the COVID-19 pandemic
    Authors: GJB Sousa, DS Lages, PPL Barbosa, MCN Rocha, SA de Sena Neto, …
    Year: 2025
    Citations: Not listed

Solomon Tesfaye | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Solomon Tesfaye | Immunology and Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Researcher at University of Gondar, Ethiopia

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Solomon Tesfaye is a distinguished researcher and academic in the field of biomedical sciences, specializing in infectious diseases, parasitology, and epidemiology. He holds a PhD in Biology from Addis Ababa University and has over two decades of experience in academia, currently serving as an Associate Professor at Gondar University, Ethiopia. His extensive research portfolio includes numerous publications in high-impact journals, focusing on malaria, tuberculosis, hepatitis, HIV, and gastrointestinal parasitic infections. Dr. Tesfaye has made significant contributions to public health through his studies on disease prevalence, risk factors, and control strategies. His work is widely recognized for its impact on healthcare policies and disease management in Ethiopia. In addition to research, he has played a crucial role in mentoring students and advancing scientific knowledge. With a strong academic background, ongoing research, and collaborative efforts, Dr. Tesfaye continues to be a leading figure in biomedical research and higher education.

Professional Profile 

Education

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Solomon Tesfaye has a strong academic background in biology and biomedical sciences. He earned his PhD in Biology under the Biomedical Sciences Stream from Addis Ababa University (2011–2017), where he conducted extensive research on infectious diseases. Prior to that, he completed his Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Biology under the Biomedical Sciences Stream at Addis Ababa University (2006–2008), further strengthening his expertise in medical research. His academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Biology from Dilla University (1996–2000), providing him with a solid foundation in biological sciences. Dr. Tesfaye’s early education includes high school at Butajira Senior Secondary School (1989–1993) and elementary education at Butajira Elementary School (1982–1988). His progressive academic achievements have enabled him to excel in biomedical research, making significant contributions to infectious disease studies, particularly in Ethiopia. His dedication to education and research has established him as a leading scholar in his field.

Professional Experience

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Solomon Tesfaye has extensive professional experience in academia and research, with a strong focus on biomedical sciences. He is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology at Gondar University, Ethiopia, a position he has held since September 2024. Prior to this, he served as an Assistant Professor at the same university from 2018 to 2024 and as a Lecturer from 2017 to 2018. His teaching career began in 2000, with roles as a Biology and Chemistry teacher in various secondary schools, including Butajira Senior Secondary School and Mechara Secondary School. He also worked at the School of Tomorrow Preparatory Private School in Addis Ababa. Over the years, Dr. Tesfaye has combined his teaching expertise with impactful research in infectious diseases. His vast experience in higher education and research has allowed him to mentor students, contribute to scientific advancements, and enhance public health initiatives in Ethiopia.

Research Interest

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Solomon Tesfaye’s research interests lie in the field of biomedical sciences, with a strong focus on infectious diseases, parasitology, epidemiology, and public health. His work primarily investigates the prevalence, risk factors, and control strategies for diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, hepatitis, HIV, and gastrointestinal parasitic infections. He is particularly interested in vector-borne diseases and the impact of environmental and biological factors on disease transmission. Dr. Tesfaye’s research also explores antimicrobial resistance patterns, seroprevalence studies, and innovative approaches to disease prevention and management. His studies contribute significantly to understanding disease dynamics in Ethiopia and beyond, with implications for healthcare policies and public health interventions. Through his research, he aims to develop effective strategies for disease control and to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and practical healthcare applications. His commitment to advancing biomedical research continues to have a meaningful impact on both academia and public health.

Award and Honor

There is no specific mention of awards and honors received by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Solomon Tesfaye in the provided information. However, based on his extensive research contributions, academic achievements, and professional experience, he is likely to have earned recognition in his field. As a highly accomplished researcher in biomedical sciences, his work on infectious diseases, parasitology, and epidemiology has had a significant impact on public health in Ethiopia and beyond. His numerous publications in reputable journals, mentorship of students, and dedication to scientific advancement may have led to institutional and academic recognition. Additionally, his role as an Associate Professor at Gondar University and his involvement in collaborative research projects indicate his influence in the academic and scientific community. If further details on specific awards or honors are available, they would provide a clearer picture of his formal recognitions and achievements in the field of biomedical research.

Research Skill

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Solomon Tesfaye possesses strong research skills in biomedical sciences, with expertise in infectious diseases, parasitology, epidemiology, and public health. His ability to design and conduct scientific studies is evident through his extensive publication record in high-impact journals. He excels in data collection, statistical analysis, and interpreting epidemiological trends, particularly in disease prevalence and risk factors. Dr. Tesfaye is skilled in laboratory techniques related to microbiology and parasitology, including serological testing and antimicrobial resistance studies. His research also involves fieldwork, assessing disease patterns, and evaluating environmental influences on disease transmission. He is proficient in using advanced research methodologies, literature reviews, and evidence-based approaches to address public health challenges. His collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and mentoring of students further highlight his research leadership. Through his analytical skills, innovative thinking, and dedication to scientific discovery, Dr. Tesfaye continues to contribute significantly to biomedical research and public health advancements.

Conclusion

Based on his extensive research contributions, impactful publications, and academic experience, Solomon Tesfaye is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His work significantly contributes to biomedical sciences, particularly in infectious diseases affecting public health. Strengthening international collaborations, securing funding, and translating research into innovations can further enhance his profile.

Publications Top Noted

  • Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B and C and HIV Infections and Associated Risk Factors Among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Care Unit at Simada Hospital, South Gondar Zone, Northwest Ethiopia

    • Authors: Solomon Tesfaye, Tirngo Abebaw, Endalkachew Bizualem, Daniel Mehabie, Amir Alelign, Valeria Pasciu
    • Year: 2025
    • Citation: BioMed Research International, DOI: 10.1155/bmri/6895237
  • Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Typhoid Fever in Patients Attending Bishoftu Town Health Centers, Oromia, Central Ethiopia

    • Authors: Gebeyehu Mekonnen, Solomon Tesfaye, Damtew Bekele, Esubalew Asmare
    • Year: 2025
    • Citation: Preprint, DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-5875722/v1
  • The Prevalence and Factors Influencing Scabies among Elementary School Children in Yilmana Densa District, Northwest Ethiopia

    • Authors: Solomon Tesfaye, Mequanint Alem, Damtew Bekele, Ashenafi Alemu
    • Year: 2025
    • Citation: Preprint, DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-5850656/v1
  • Sero-Prevalence of Visceral Leishmaniasis and Associated Risk Factors among Febrile Patients Attending Metema Hospital, West Gondar Zone, North West Ethiopia

    • Authors: Solomon Tesfaye, Tibebnesh Getu, Tilahun Yohannes, Damtew Bekele
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: Acta Parasitologica, DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00882-3
  • Sero-prevalence of Visceral Leishmaniasis and Associated Risk Factors among Febrile Patients Attending Metema Hospital, West Gondar Zone, North West Ethiopia

    • Authors: Solomon Tesfaye, Tibebnesh Getu, Tilahun Yohanes, Damtew Bekele
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: Preprint, DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4213210/v1
  • Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasitic Infections and Associated Risk Factors Among Secondary School Students in Wonji Shoa, Adama District, East Shoa Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia

    • Authors: Abera Adugna, Tilahun Yohannes, Solomon Tesfaye, Francesca Mancianti
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: BioMed Research International, DOI: 10.1155/2024/5520924
  • Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B, C, and its Associated Risk Factors Among Clinically Suspected Patients Attending Poly and Maraki Health Centers, Gondar City, North West Ethiopia

    • Authors: Solomon Tesfaye, Adefework Alemu, Endalkachew Bizualem, Daniel Mehabie, Amir Alelign
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: SAGE Open Medicine, DOI: 10.1177/20503121241266347
  • Ocular Bacterial Infections and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns in Patients Attending Gondar Teaching Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia

    • Authors: Yeshambel Belyhun, Feleke Moges, Mengistu Endris, Banchamlak Asmare, Bemnet Amare, Damtew Bekele, Solomon Tesfaye, Martha Alemayehu, Fantahun Biadgelegne, Andargachew Mulu et al.
    • Year: 2018
    • Citation: BMC Research Notes, DOI: 10.1186/s13104-018-3705-y
  • Impact of Fertilizers and Green Algae (Spirogyra) on the Survival and Development of Immature Malaria Vector, Anopheles Gambiae Sensu Lato Giles (Diptera: Culicidae)

  • Bacteriological Profile and Drug Susceptibility Patterns in Dacryocystitis Patients Attending Gondar University Teaching Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia

    • Authors: Yared Assefa, Feleke Moges, Mengistu Endris, Banchamlak Zereay, Bemnet Amare, Damtew Bekele, Solomon Tesfaye, Andargachew Mulu, Yeshambel Belyhun
    • Year: 2015
    • Citation: BMC Ophthalmology, DOI: 10.1186/s12886-015-0016-0
  • Trends of Tuberculosis and HIV Infections Between 2004 and 2008 in Wolaita Sodo, Southern Ethiopia

    • Authors: Teklu T, Yeshambel Belyhun, Solomon Tesfaye, Girmay Medhin
    • Year: 2012
    • Citation: Ethiopian Medical Journal, PMID: 22519157
  • Malaria Prevalence Pattern Observed in the Highland Fringe of Butajira, Southern Ethiopia: A Longitudinal Study from Parasitological and Entomological Survey

    • Authors: Solomon Tesfaye, Yeshambel Belyhun, Takele Teklu, Tesfaye Mengesha, Beyene Petros
    • Year: 2011
    • Citation: Malaria Journal, DOI: 10.1186/1475-2875-10-153