Elena Popa | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Elena Popa | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Lecturer at “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy Iasi, Romania

Dr. Elena Popa is a distinguished Senior Lecturer at “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Iași, Romania, with over 20 years of academic experience in Family and Preventive Medicine. Her research career, grounded in a Ph.D. on PPAR receptors and metabolic syndrome, has evolved to address critical public health issues such as chronic inflammation, Long COVID, and PCOS. She has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals and book chapters, actively contributing to national screening programs and interdisciplinary health initiatives. Dr. Popa uniquely integrates clinical practice with academic research, promoting evidence-based approaches in primary care. Her dedication to preventive strategies and translational research makes her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. While further international collaboration and visibility of research metrics would enhance her profile, her impactful contributions to education, clinical practice, and public health firmly establish her as a leading figure in her field.

Professional Profile 

Education🎓

Dr. Elena Popa has a strong educational background in medical sciences, culminating in a Ph.D. in Medical Sciences obtained in 2014. Her doctoral research focused on “The Role of PPAR Receptors in Metabolic Syndrome,” demonstrating her early and sustained interest in the complex mechanisms underlying metabolic and inflammatory disorders. She pursued her medical education at the “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Iași, Romania, where she currently serves as a Senior Lecturer. Over the years, Dr. Popa has continued to expand her knowledge through active participation in academic and professional development programs, including national and international conferences, workshops, and continuing medical education (CME) courses. Her academic journey reflects a commitment to both clinical excellence and research innovation, with a special focus on family medicine, preventive healthcare, and chronic disease pathophysiology. This solid educational foundation supports her role as both a researcher and a mentor in the medical field.

Professional Experience📝

Dr. Elena Popa has over two decades of professional experience in the fields of medical education, clinical practice, and research. She currently holds the position of Senior Lecturer in the Department of Preventive Medicine and Interdisciplinarity at the “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Iași, Romania. In this role, she is deeply involved in teaching and mentoring medical students and residents, particularly in Family Medicine and Preventive Medicine. Alongside her academic duties, Dr. Popa maintains an active clinical practice as a family physician, enabling her to apply research insights directly to patient care. Her professional contributions also include involvement in national health screening programs, public health campaigns, and interdisciplinary healthcare initiatives. She frequently lectures at national conferences and continuing medical education programs, reinforcing her commitment to advancing healthcare knowledge and practice. Dr. Popa’s combined academic, clinical, and research roles exemplify her dedication to improving healthcare outcomes through integrated, evidence-based approaches.

Research Interest🔎

Dr. Elena Popa’s research interests center on the intersection of chronic inflammation, metabolic disorders, and public health. Her early work, initiated during her Ph.D. studies on the role of PPAR receptors in metabolic syndrome, laid the foundation for a broader exploration into inflammatory mechanisms underlying complex syndromes. She is particularly focused on conditions such as Long COVID and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), examining their links to endocrine dysfunction and systemic inflammation. Dr. Popa is also deeply engaged in preventive medicine, with an emphasis on improving primary care strategies and promoting early detection and intervention for chronic diseases. Her research bridges basic science and clinical application, aiming to translate findings into practical healthcare solutions. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and participation in national health programs, she seeks to enhance public health outcomes. Her work is characterized by a commitment to integrating medical research with education and community-based clinical practice.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Elena Popa has earned recognition and respect throughout her career for her outstanding contributions to medical education, clinical practice, and research. Her dedication to advancing preventive medicine and chronic disease management has been acknowledged through invitations to speak at numerous national conferences and continuing medical education (CME) programs. She has been honored for her active involvement in national health screening initiatives and interdisciplinary public health projects, which have had a meaningful impact on community health outcomes. As a mentor and educator, Dr. Popa has received commendations from academic institutions and professional organizations for her commitment to student training and resident development in family medicine. While specific awards are not explicitly listed, her sustained professional excellence, research productivity, and leadership in both academic and clinical settings reflect a career marked by distinction. Her reputation as a respected physician-researcher underscores her suitability for high-level academic and scientific honors, including the Best Researcher Award.

Research Skill🔬

Dr. Elena Popa possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that span both theoretical analysis and practical application in clinical and public health settings. Her expertise includes designing and conducting clinical and epidemiological studies, with a strong foundation in evidence-based medicine. She is adept at scientific writing, having authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed journal articles and book chapters focused on chronic inflammation, metabolic disorders, and preventive healthcare. Dr. Popa demonstrates skill in data interpretation, literature synthesis, and the integration of interdisciplinary perspectives, particularly in exploring the complex interactions between inflammation, endocrine dysfunction, and chronic disease. Her ability to translate research findings into real-world clinical strategies highlights her strength in translational research. Additionally, she effectively collaborates across academic and healthcare sectors, contributing to national screening programs and health initiatives. Her dual roles as a practicing physician and academic researcher enable her to apply rigorous scientific inquiry directly to patient care and healthcare improvement.

Conclusion💡

Dr. Elena Popa is a highly qualified and impactful candidate for the Best Researcher Award, especially for domains focused on preventive medicine, chronic disease pathophysiology, and translational clinical research. Her blend of long-term academic involvement, interdisciplinary focus, and commitment to applying research in clinical settings is commendable.

Publications Top Noted✍️

  • The Significance of Low Magnesium Levels in COVID-19 Patients

    • Authors: EA Coman, A Ceasovschih, AD Petroaie, E Popa, C Lionte, C Bologa, …

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 21

  • Stress: from symptom to disease

    • Authors: MG Traian, AE Coman, L Traian, R Petrovanu

    • Year: 2013

    • Citations: 8

  • Epidemiological study of metabolic syndrome and risk of diabetes mellitus in a rural family medicine practice in Bacau County

    • Authors: D Alamir, P Elena, A Bacusca, MG Traian, R Petrovanu, AE Coman

    • Year: 2014

    • Citations: 5

  • Flow Cytometry Analysis of Pparα Receptors in Metabolic Syndrome

    • Authors: E Popa, F Zugun-Eloae, M Zlei, D Jitaru, OM Pintilie, AE Coman, M Traian, …

    • Year: 2014

    • Citations: 4

  • Non-invasive Serological Markers of Hepatic Fibrosis – Mini Review

    • Authors: E Popa, RI Avram, AE Popa, AE Coman

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 3

  • PEX6 Mutation in a Child with Infantile Refsum Disease—A Case Report and Literature Review

    • Authors: AM Slanina, EA Coman, D Anton-Paduraru, E Popa, CL Barbacariu, …

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 3

  • Pelvic inflammatory disease

    • Authors: E Popa, AA Chis-Srban, C Manole, A Coman

    • Year: 2019

    • Citations: 3*

  • O analiza SWOT a rezultatelor screeningului de cancer de col uterin (2012–2016)

    • Authors: G Calfa, E Popa, D Pletea, M Grigore, I Pavaleanu

    • Year: 2016

    • Citations: 3

  • The “Viral” Form of Polyarteritis Nodosa (PAN)—A Distinct Entity: A Case Based Review

    • Authors: V Pasa, E Popa, M Poroch, A Cosmescu, AI Bacusca, AM Slanina, …

    • Year: 2023

    • Citations: 2

  • The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Mental Health: A Web-Based Study Among Romanian Adults

    • Authors: E Popa, T Tetia, M Poroch, AE Coman

    • Year: 2022

    • Citations: 2

  • Methods of internet addiction screening for teens and young adults in Primary Care

    • Authors: AM Slanina, AD Petroaie, C Nasaudean, AI Bacusca, U Monica, …

    • Year: 2021

    • Citations: 2

  • Disfuncția endotelială – de la mecanisme moleculare la cuantificare și tratament în practica medicală

    • Authors: E Popa, MG Traian, A Bacusca, A Diaa, R Petrovanu, AE Coman

    • Year: 2014

    • Citations: 2

Johannes Lässing | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Johannes Lässing | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Post doc at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Germany

Dr. Johannes Lässing is a distinguished researcher in sports medicine and exercise physiology, currently serving as a research associate and head of sports medicine at Martin Luther University, Halle (Saale). With a Ph.D. (Dr. rer. med.) from the Medical Faculty of Leipzig, awarded magna cum laude, his research focuses on physiological adaptations to exercise, rehabilitation, and preventive healthcare. He has led multiple research projects on chronic metabolic diseases, post-COVID-19 return to sports, and dental protection in athletes. A prolific academic, he has reviewed for top-tier journals such as the European Respiratory Journal and Plos One, further establishing his credibility in the field. Dr. Lässing has also contributed to clinical trials and holds certifications in medical research ethics. His expertise extends to teaching biochemistry, physiology, and pathology in sports. With a strong research foundation, he continues to advance innovative solutions in sports science and rehabilitation.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Johannes Lässing has a strong academic background in sports medicine and rehabilitation. He earned his Dr. rer. med. (Doctor of Medical Science) from the Medical Faculty of Leipzig in February 2022, achieving magna cum laude distinction. His doctoral research focused on the impact of individualized dental protection on cardiopulmonary, hormonal-metabolic parameters, and athletic performance. Prior to his Ph.D., he completed a Master of Science in Rehabilitation and Prevention from 2013 to 2016, further strengthening his expertise in sports medicine and health sciences. His education is complemented by specialized certifications, including advanced and basic courses for clinical investigators under the German Medical Association (AMG), as well as training in study direction for clinical trials. This robust educational foundation, combined with extensive research experience, has equipped Dr. Lässing with the knowledge and skills to contribute significantly to sports medicine, exercise physiology, and preventive healthcare.

Professional Experience

Dr. Johannes Lässing has extensive professional experience in sports medicine and research, currently serving as a research associate and head of sports medicine at Martin Luther University, Halle (Saale), since July 2022. Previously, he was a research associate at the Institute for Sports Medicine and Prevention (2017–2022), where he led multiple projects, including studies on acute physiological adaptations to dental protection, exercise interventions for chronic metabolic diseases, and telemonitoring-based health programs for cancer patients. He also spearheaded research on return-to-sport diagnostics after SARS-CoV-2 infection and strength training adaptations. From 2015 to 2020, he worked as a student and scientific assistant at the same institute, contributing to diabetes research. Additionally, he has served as a lecturer, teaching biochemistry, physiology, anatomy, and pathology in sports science. With expertise in clinical trials and medical diagnostics, Dr. Lässing continues to make significant contributions to exercise physiology and rehabilitation research.

Research Interest

Dr. Johannes Lässing’s research interests lie at the intersection of sports medicine, exercise physiology, and preventive healthcare. His work focuses on understanding the physiological and metabolic adaptations to exercise, with particular emphasis on rehabilitation, chronic disease management, and athletic performance. He has conducted research on exercise interventions for metabolic diseases, post-COVID-19 return-to-sport diagnostics, and the role of dental protection in physiological responses. Additionally, his studies explore the effects of strength training on acute physiological adaptations and the use of telemonitoring for cancer rehabilitation. His expertise extends to clinical trials, where he investigates innovative approaches to improving health outcomes through exercise-based interventions. Dr. Lässing is also interested in biochemistry and pathology in sports, aiming to bridge the gap between medical diagnostics and performance optimization. Through his research, he contributes to advancing knowledge in sports science, rehabilitation strategies, and preventive healthcare applications.

Award and Honor

Dr. Johannes Lässing has been recognized for his contributions to sports medicine and exercise physiology through various academic honors and research grants. He was awarded a prestigious research scholarship (Promotionsstipendium) from the European Social Fund (ESF) between 2017 and 2020, supporting his doctoral research on the impact of individualized dental protection on physiological and metabolic parameters in athletes. His Ph.D. from the Medical Faculty of Leipzig was conferred with magna cum laude distinction, highlighting the excellence of his research. Additionally, his work has been acknowledged through invitations to review for high-impact journals, such as the European Respiratory Journal and Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport. His leadership in multiple research projects at Martin Luther University further demonstrates his academic influence. With his growing impact in sports science and rehabilitation, Dr. Lässing continues to contribute significantly to the advancement of medical research in exercise and preventive healthcare.

Research Skill

Dr. Johannes Lässing possesses a diverse set of research skills in sports medicine, exercise physiology, and clinical trials. His expertise includes designing and leading interdisciplinary research projects focused on physiological adaptations to exercise, rehabilitation, and preventive healthcare. He is proficient in conducting clinical studies, with experience in medical diagnostics, telemonitoring, and self-management programs for chronic diseases and cancer rehabilitation. Dr. Lässing is skilled in data collection and analysis, utilizing advanced physiological and biochemical assessment techniques to study metabolic responses and performance adaptations. His ability to critically evaluate scientific literature is reflected in his role as a reviewer for high-impact journals. Additionally, he has strong teaching and mentorship skills, educating students in biochemistry, physiology, anatomy, and pathology in sports science. With certifications in clinical trial management and medical research ethics, he continues to contribute innovative insights to the field, advancing knowledge in sports science and healthcare interventions.

Conclusion

Johannes Lässing is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on his extensive contributions to sports medicine and physiology research. His leadership in research projects, publication record, and expertise in clinical trials make him a highly competitive nominee. Strengthening international collaborations, increasing first-author publications, and securing more independent research grants would further elevate his profile.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Repetition‐dependent acute cardiopulmonary responses during intensity‐matched squats in males
    Authors: Johannes Lässing, Sonja Hummelmann, Maxi Kramer, Ulrich Laufs, Sven Fikenzer, Roberto Falz
    Year: 2025
    Citation: DOI: 10.1113/EP092363

  • Title: Effects of postoperative physical exercise rehabilitation on cardiorespiratory fitness, functional capacity, and quality of life in patients with colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer – a systematic review and meta-analysis
    Authors: Beyer Mailin, Bischoff Christian, Laessing Johannes, Gockel Ines, Falz Roberto
    Year: 2024
    Citation: DOI: 10.1007/S00432-024-06064-Y

  • Title: Effect of home-based online training and activity feedback on oxygen uptake in patients after surgical cancer therapy: a randomized controlled trial
    Authors: Roberto Falz, Bischoff C, Thieme R, Tegtbur U, Hillemanns P, Stolzenburg JU, Aktas B, Bork U, Weitz J, Lässing J, et al.
    Year: 2023
    Citation: DOI: 10.1186/s12916-023-03010-6

  • Title: Intensity-dependent cardiopulmonary response during and after strength training
    Authors: Lässing J, Maudrich T, Kenville R, Uyar Z, Bischoff C, Sven Fikenzer, Busse M, Roberto Falz
    Year: 2023
    Citation: DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33873-x

  • Title: Implantation of an Intraaortic Balloon Pump for Preoperative Cardiogenic Shock SCAI Stages B to C: A Propensity Score–Matched Analysis
    Authors: M. Vondran, K. von Aspern, J. Garbade, M. Schmidt, J. Lässing, T. Ghazy, A. Rastan, M. A. Borger, T. Schröter
    Year: 2022
    Citation: DOI: 10.1055/S-0042-1742844

  • Title: Repeated cardiopulmonary performance measurements in young competitive handball players with and without SARS-CoV-2 infection
    Authors: Johannes Lässing, S. Kwast, C. Bischoff, N. Hölldobler, M. Vondran, R. Falz, M. Busse
    Year: 2022
    Citation: DOI: 10.1186/s13102-022-00591-2

  • Title: Motor control strategies differ between monoarticular and biarticular quadriceps muscles during bipedal squats
    Authors: Tom Maudrich, Tapper P, Clauß M, Roberto Falz, Lässing J, Rouven Kenville
    Year: 2022
    Citation: DOI: 10.1111/sms.14230

  • Title: Effects and duration of exercise-based prehabilitation in surgical therapy of colon and rectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
    Authors: Roberto Falz, Bischoff C, Thieme R, Dr. Johannes Lässing, Mehdorn M, Stelzner S, Busse M, Gockel I
    Year: 2022
    Citation: DOI: 10.1007/s00432-022-04088-w

  • Title: Is implantable cardioverter defibrillator surgery in patients with an implanted left ventricular assist device safe under uninterrupted oral anticoagulation?
    Authors: Vondran M, von Aspern K, Garbade J, Lässing J, Kiefer P, Rastan AJ, Borger MA, Schroeter T
    Year: 2022
    Citation: DOI: 10.1111/aor.14217