Marina Parchaykina | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Marina Parchaykina | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Head of the Department of Biotechnology and Biochemistry at Ogarev Mordovia State University, Russia

Dr. Parchaykina Marina Vladimirovna is a distinguished researcher and educator specializing in biotechnology, biochemistry, and bioengineering. With a proven track record in the study of peripheral nerve regeneration, biologically active substances, and bacterial nanocellulose-based biocomposites, she has made significant contributions to both academia and applied biomedical sciences. As the head of the Department of Biotechnology, Biochemistry and Bioengineering at Ogarev Mordovia State University, she oversees research and education while mentoring the next generation of scientists. Her work is widely published in international journals indexed in Scopus and Web of Science. A recipient of prestigious academic awards, Dr. Parchaykina exemplifies scientific excellence, innovation, and leadership. Her involvement in national-level funded research projects and her focus on regenerative medicine place her at the forefront of cutting-edge science in Russia. Her contributions are marked by a multidisciplinary approach, integration of young researchers, and a vision toward impactful scientific and medical advancements.

Professional Profile 

Scopus Profile  | ORCID Profile

Education

Dr. Parchaykina completed her undergraduate education at the Faculty of Biotechnology and Biology, Ogarev Mordovia State University in 2011, specializing in Biochemistry. She pursued her postgraduate studies at the same institution from 2011 to 2014, gaining a deep understanding of advanced biochemical processes and research methodologies. In 2016, she earned her Ph.D. from Voronezh State University, where she successfully defended her dissertation in the field of biological sciences. Her academic journey has laid a strong foundation in molecular biology, biotechnology, and regenerative medicine. Through rigorous academic training, Dr. Parchaykina developed a profound command of experimental techniques and interdisciplinary scientific thinking. Her continuous engagement in professional development and scientific research further underscores her commitment to advancing knowledge in the life sciences. Her educational background has also equipped her to lead academic departments and contribute meaningfully to the formulation of biotechnology curricula and scientific training programs.

Experience

Dr. Marina Parchaykina currently serves as the Head of the Department of Biotechnology, Biochemistry, and Bioengineering at Ogarev Mordovia State University. In this capacity, she not only leads academic and administrative functions but also manages large-scale research initiatives and guides students, graduate researchers, and young faculty members. Her professional career began shortly after her graduation, and she has steadily ascended to leadership through dedication and a consistent record of academic excellence. She has been instrumental in winning competitive research grants, including a major state-supported project in 2024, aimed at developing regenerative biomedical technologies. Over the years, she has authored over 40 scientific publications, contributed to 6 textbooks, and developed 1 electronic educational resource. Her professional engagements also include participation in national and international conferences, cross-institutional collaborations, and innovation-driven projects, making her a central figure in Russian biomedical and biotechnological research and education ecosystems.

Research Interest

Dr. Parchaykina’s research interests lie at the intersection of biotechnology, regenerative medicine, and bioengineering. She focuses on the degeneration and regeneration of the peripheral nervous system, seeking innovative ways to restore nerve function through biologically active substances and nanostructured biomaterials. A central theme of her work is the development of bacterial nanocellulose-based biocomposites used as conduits and gels for tissue engineering and nerve repair. Her research integrates molecular biology, biophysics, and pharmaceutical sciences, addressing critical problems in somatic nerve and blood vessel regeneration. Dr. Parchaykina is also engaged in identifying and applying physiologically active compounds that influence receptor systems involved in regenerative processes. This interdisciplinary approach helps in the design of next-generation therapeutic tools and materials. Her ongoing projects aim to bridge the gap between basic biochemical research and clinical applications, positioning her work as both fundamental and translational in its long-term implications for healthcare.

Award and Honor

Dr. Parchaykina has received several notable awards that underscore her excellence in both research and education. In 2024, she was awarded a First-Degree Diploma in the “Best Educational Publication” category for co-authoring the textbook Medical Immunology and Biotechnology for Obtaining Monoclonal Antibodies. This award highlights her commitment to creating high-quality academic content and advancing the learning process in biotechnology. The same year, she was honored with a Certificate of Appreciation for her long-standing contribution to scientific research, curriculum development, and the mentoring of future specialists. Additionally, under her supervision, a research team secured 48 million rubles in competitive funding from the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, as part of a prestigious grant initiative. These accolades reflect her leadership, scientific merit, and influence in the academic community, making her an outstanding candidate for recognition on national and international platforms.

Research Skill

Dr. Parchaykina possesses a diverse set of research skills that span molecular biology, biochemistry, material science, and bioengineering. She is adept at designing and executing multidisciplinary experiments aimed at understanding cellular responses to biomaterials, as well as developing innovative techniques for nerve and tissue regeneration. Her expertise includes the use of bacterial nanocellulose to create advanced biocomposites and the formulation of gel-based therapeutic substances targeting degenerative tissues. Additionally, she has strong capabilities in scientific writing, grant proposal development, and project management, having led several large-scale funded initiatives. She is proficient in academic publishing and familiar with platforms like Scopus, Web of Science, and ORCID for maintaining research profiles. Her mentorship of students and early-career researchers further enhances her collaborative and instructional skills, reinforcing her role as both a scholar and an educator. Dr. Parchaykina’s comprehensive research toolkit allows her to contribute meaningfully to both theoretical and applied biomedical sciences.

Publication Top Notes

  • Title: Cost-Effective Production of Bacterial Cellulose and Tubular Materials by Cultivating Komagataeibacter sucrofermentans B-11267 on a Molasses Medium

  • Journal: Polymers (Open Access)

  • Type: Article

  • Year of Publication: 2025

Conclusion

Dr. Parchaykina Marina Vladimirovna is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her impactful research in nerve regeneration and biotechnology, leadership in large-scale funded projects, consistent publication record, and dedication to scientific education underline her exceptional contributions to both academia and society. With her current momentum and vision, she is well-positioned to lead significant biomedical breakthroughs and continue mentoring the next generation of scientists. Her trajectory reflects not only past excellence but also great promise for future leadership and innovation in her field.

Gülçin Gacar | Neurogenerative Disease | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gülçin Gacar | Neurogenerative Disease | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. at Kocaeli University, Turkey

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gülçin Gacar is a distinguished academician and biomedical researcher at Kocaeli University, specializing in stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, and cancer therapeutics. With over two decades of experience, she has made significant contributions to translational medical science, particularly in the areas of mesenchymal stem cell applications, oxidative stress response, and neurodegenerative disease models. Her leadership in national scientific projects, extensive publications in internationally indexed journals, and mentoring of graduate and doctoral students exemplify her dedication to advancing health sciences. Dr. Gacar’s work bridges laboratory-based biomedical research with clinical relevance, making her a respected figure in the Turkish and European scientific communities. She actively participates in multidisciplinary collaborations and professional associations, and has been honored with several national and international awards for her research excellence and scientific communication. Her dynamic approach and consistent research output position her as a leading voice in innovative biomedical research in Turkey and beyond.

Professional Profile 

Google Scholar | Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile

Education

Dr. Gacar holds a Ph.D. in Medical Microbiology from Kocaeli University, awarded in 2005, where her research focused on gene expression under varied thermal and growth conditions in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. She previously completed her M.Sc. in Medical Biology at the same university in 2001, investigating antibiotic resistance in Shigella species isolated post-earthquake. Her foundational education began with a B.Sc. in Biology from Istanbul University in 1996. Through this academic trajectory, she developed a deep understanding of cell biology, microbiology, and molecular genetics. Her strong academic background is complemented by further specialization in stem cell research and flow cytometry techniques. Over the years, she has enriched her scientific acumen by integrating multidisciplinary knowledge and keeping abreast with current developments in molecular medicine, immunology, and tissue engineering. Her educational foundation has been pivotal in shaping her robust research capabilities and her success as a mentor, educator, and investigator in health sciences.

Professional Experience

Dr. Gülçin Gacar has served in several critical academic and research roles at Kocaeli University since 2001. She is currently an Associate Professor at the Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Stem Cell Sciences, where she also teaches doctoral-level courses on immunology, cell cycle regulation, and flow cytometry. Previously, she held positions as Assistant Professor at the Stem Cell and Gene Therapy Center and in the Department of Public Health Nursing. She has also served as the head of the Flow Cytometry Laboratory. Her professional trajectory highlights a steady ascent through academic ranks, underpinned by her research excellence and leadership in scientific project management. Dr. Gacar has supervised multiple master’s and doctoral theses on cutting-edge topics in stem cell therapy, neurobiology, oncology, and tissue engineering. Beyond research and teaching, she actively contributes to curriculum development, laboratory administration, and interdepartmental collaborations, embodying the role of a versatile academic professional in health and life sciences.

Research Interest

Dr. Gacar’s primary research interests revolve around stem cell-based therapies, cancer biology, oxidative stress mechanisms, and neurodegenerative disorders. She investigates mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes, photodynamic cancer therapies, and regenerative models for diseases such as Alzheimer’s and diabetes. Her work also includes exploring the cytotoxic effects of bioactive compounds on various cancer cell lines and studying the immunomodulatory properties of stem cells in transplantation. By focusing on cell signaling pathways, gene expression analysis, and flow cytometry-based techniques, she aims to understand how stem cells can be harnessed for therapeutic use. Her interests are inherently translational—linking laboratory findings to potential clinical applications. Through projects funded by national science agencies and universities, Dr. Gacar is pioneering approaches that use stem cells and nanomedicine for regenerative outcomes. This intersection of molecular biology and therapy design defines her role as an innovator in personalized and regenerative medical research.

Award and Honor

Dr. Gülçin Gacar has earned numerous accolades recognizing her outstanding contributions to biomedical research. She was the recipient of the Best Oral Presentation Award from the European Biotechnology Thematic Network Association and earned poster and presentation awards from prestigious bodies such as MOKAD, TEOD, and TÜRK DİYABET VAKFI. She received an ECNP Research Grant and a Travel Stipend Award from the International Association for Dental Research (IADR). Her work on stem cells, Alzheimer’s models, and cancer therapies has frequently been highlighted at national and international conferences. These recognitions not only reflect the scientific merit of her research but also her ability to effectively communicate complex findings. Dr. Gacar’s consistent recognition over the past decade underscores her reputation as a high-impact researcher and speaker. Her awards stand as a testament to her innovation, leadership, and dedication to addressing critical problems in health and disease through rigorous scientific inquiry.

Research Skill

Dr. Gacar brings a robust set of research skills to her field, combining deep expertise in flow cytometry, molecular diagnostics, and cell culture techniques. She is proficient in designing and conducting in vitro and in vivo experiments, especially those related to mesenchymal stem cell behavior, apoptosis assays, and oxidative stress modeling. Her experience spans RNA/protein expression analysis, immunohistochemistry, exosome isolation, and advanced imaging techniques. She is skilled in statistical data interpretation and scientific project management, having led and participated in numerous multi-phase research grants. Her ability to translate molecular research into therapeutic models is evident in her published work and thesis supervision. Furthermore, she regularly trains students and lab personnel in technical procedures and project methodologies, emphasizing both scientific rigor and reproducibility. Her multidisciplinary approach combines biology, medicine, and bioengineering, making her a well-rounded and technically proficient researcher equipped to lead high-impact biomedical investigations.

Conclusion

Dr. Gülçin Gacar is an outstanding and impactful researcher with a long-standing record in translational biomedical research, particularly in stem cell therapy and cancer treatment. Her work bridges basic science with clinical applications, and her mentorship and leadership amplify her contributions to the scientific community. With her strong publication record, consistent research funding, and educational leadership, she is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award. Her future research promises continued advancements in regenerative medicine and innovative therapeutic approaches.

Publications Top Noted

  • E. Karaöz, B.N. Doğan, A. Aksoy, G. Gacar, S. Akyüz, S. Ayhan, Z.S. Genç, …
    Isolation and in vitro characterisation of dental pulp stem cells from natal teeth
    2010Citations: 308

  • E. Karaöz, A. Aksoy, S. Ayhan, A.E. Sarıboyacı, F. Kaymaz, M. Kasap
    Characterization of mesenchymal stem cells from rat bone marrow: ultrastructural properties, differentiation potential and immunophenotypic markers
    2009Citations: 261

  • K. Schallmoser, E. Rohde, A. Reinisch, C. Bartmann, D. Thaler, C. Drexler, …
    Rapid large-scale expansion of functional mesenchymal stem cells from unmanipulated bone marrow without animal serum
    2008Citations: 228

  • H. Vahaboglu, F. Budak, M. Kasap, G. Gacar, S. Torol, A. Karadenizli, …
    High prevalence of OXA-51-type class D β-lactamases among ceftazidime-resistant clinical isolates of Acinetobacter spp.: co-existence with OXA-58 in multiple clones
    2006Citations: 148

  • P.C. Demircan, A.E. Sariboyaci, Z.S. Unal, G. Gacar, C. Subasi, E. Karaoz
    Immunoregulatory effects of human dental pulp-derived stem cells on T cells: comparison of transwell co-culture and mixed lymphocyte reaction systems
    2011Citations: 126

  • S.S. Gocmez, N. Gacar, T. Utkan, G. Gacar, P.J. Scarpace, N. Tumer
    Protective effects of resveratrol on aging-induced cognitive impairment in rats
    2016Citations: 114

  • A.T. Özdemir, R.B.Ö. Özdemir, C. Kırmaz, A.E. Sarıboyacı, Z.S.Ü. Halbutoğlları, …
    The paracrine immunomodulatory interactions between the human dental pulp derived mesenchymal stem cells and CD4 T cell subsets
    2016Citations: 90

  • F. Kolayli, G. Gacar, A. Karadenizli, A. Sanic, H. Vahaboglu, Study Group
    PER-1 is still widespread in Turkish hospitals among Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter spp.
    2005Citations: 90

  • G. Akpinar, M. Kasap, A. Aksoy, G. Duruksu, G. Gacar, E. Karaoz
    Phenotypic and proteomic characteristics of human dental pulp derived mesenchymal stem cells from a natal, an exfoliated deciduous, and an impacted third molar tooth
    2014Citations: 89

  • Y.M. Lee, S.Y. Shin, S.S. Jue, I.K. Kwon, E.H. Cho, E.S. Cho, S.H. Park, E.C. Kim
    The role of PIN1 on odontogenic and adipogenic differentiation in human dental pulp stem cells
    2014Citations: 64

  • E. Karaöz, A. Okçu, G. Gacar, Ö. Sağlam, S. Yürüker, H. Kenar
    A comprehensive characterization study of human bone marrow MSCs with an emphasis on molecular and ultrastructural properties
    2011Citations: 63

Mohammed Abdullah Issa | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Issa | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Head of Department at Imam Ja’afar Al-Sadiq University, Iraq

Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Issa is a distinguished Environmental Engineer with expertise in environmental sustainability, risk assessment, and safety management. He has an H-index of 15, has published over 25 research articles in high-impact Clarivate and Scopus-indexed journals, and has served as a reviewer for 28 scientific papers. Recognized for his academic excellence, he has received multiple appreciation certificates from universities and journals. His research focuses on water quality, ecological compliance, and environmental safety, contributing significantly to sustainable development.

Professional Profile 

Education

Dr. Issa holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering (2020) and an M.S. in Environmental Technology Management (2016) from University of Putra Malaysia. He completed his B.S. in Environmental Engineering at Al-Mustansiriya University, Iraq (2010). He received the 2017 Putra Research Grant and a 2018 Graduate Student Scholarship, highlighting his academic excellence. His research and coursework emphasized environmental management, sustainability, and risk assessment.

Professional Experience

Dr. Issa is currently the Head of the Oil & Gas Department and a Lecturer Doctor at Imam Ja’afar Al-Sadiq University, Iraq. He previously worked as an Environmental Engineer at the Ministry of Iraqi Environment (2023-2024) and a Safety Engineer at Enbia’ath Almustaqbel (2011-2013). His expertise includes project management, occupational safety, and ecological compliance. Additionally, he has contributed to strategic environmental policies, sustainable development initiatives, and international research collaborations.

Research Interests

Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Issa’s research focuses on environmental sustainability, water quality management, ecological compliance, and risk assessment. He specializes in hazard recognition, safety management, and sustainable development strategies. His work aims to develop innovative approaches for minimizing environmental hazards, improving water treatment processes, and optimizing industrial sustainability practices. He is also interested in climate change mitigation, environmental monitoring, and the application of advanced materials in environmental engineering. His research integrates environmental technology, risk management frameworks, and occupational health standards to enhance sustainable infrastructure and public safety.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Issa has received several prestigious awards, including the 2017 Putra Research Grant and the 2018 Graduate Student Scholarship from the University of Putra Malaysia. He has been recognized with multiple appreciation certificates from Imam Ja’afar Al-Sadiq University for outstanding research contributions. Additionally, he has received certificates of appreciation from scientific journals and conferences for his role as a reviewer and speaker.

Research Skills

Dr. Issa possesses advanced research skills in data analysis, environmental risk assessment, and sustainability modeling. He is proficient in ISO 14001 (Environmental Management Systems), ISO 9001 (Quality Management), and ISO 31000 (Risk Management). His technical expertise includes Olympus BX 51 High Power Microscopy, subcritical water analysis, and statistical modeling for environmental studies. He is also skilled in scientific publishing, peer review, and academic writing, making significant contributions to high-impact journals.

Conclusion

Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Issa is a highly qualified candidate for the Best Researcher Award, with a strong research publication record, leadership in academia, and significant contributions to environmental engineering. His teaching, research, and professional experiences make him a deserving nominee. Enhancing international collaborations, leading more funded projects, and focusing on research-based innovation would further solidify his standing as a top-tier researcher.

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Fluorescent Sensing of Fe³⁺ in Acidic Environment by Carbon Dots Derived From Empty Fruit Bunch Biochar: Central Composite Design Optimization
    Authors: MA Issa, ZH Jabbar, H Zentou, RB Khalaf
    Year: 2025
    Citations: Not available (New publication)

  • Title: Developing an Integrated Mathematical Model of Fermentation-Pervaporation System for Bioethanol Production
    Authors: H Zentou, ZZ Abidin, MA Issa, R Yunus, DRA Biak
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 10

  • Title: A Review Study Summarizes the Main Characterization Techniques of Nano-Composite Photocatalysts and Their Applications in Photodegradation of Organic Pollutants
    Authors: ZH Jabbar, BH Graimed, AA Okab, MA Issa, SH Ammar, HJ Khadim, et al.
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 54

  • Title: Fabrication of g-C₃N₄ Nanosheets Immobilized Bi₂S₃/Ag₂WO₄ Nanorods for Photocatalytic Disinfection of Staphylococcus aureus Cells in Wastewater: Dual S-Scheme Charge Separation
    Authors: ZH Jabbar, AA Okab, BH Graimed, MA Issa, SH Ammar
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 37

  • Title: Highly Stable β-Bi₂O₃/Ag Decorated Nanosilica as an Efficient Schottky Heterojunction for Ciprofloxacin Photodegradation in Wastewater Under LED Illumination
    Authors: BH Graimed, AA Okab, ZH Jabbar, MA Issa, SH Ammar
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 38

  • Title: Photocatalytic Destruction of Congo Red Dye in Wastewater Using a Novel Ag₂WO₄/Bi₂S₃ Nanocomposite Decorated g-C₃N₄ Nanosheet as Ternary S-Scheme Heterojunction: Improving the …
    Authors: ZH Jabbar, AA Okab, BH Graimed, MA Issa, SH Ammar
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 50

  • Title: Sustainable Applications of Carbon Dots-Based Composites as Photocatalyst for Environmental Pollutants Remediation
    Authors: ZZ Abidin, MY Pudza, MA Issa, H Zentou, NH Harun, NAA Halim
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 4

  • Title: Room Temperature Operated Hydrogen Sensor Using Palladium Coated on Tapered Optical Fiber
    Authors: MM Alkhabet, SH Girei, HK Salih, R Thabit, MA Issa, S Paiman, N Arsad, et al.
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 19

  • Title: Photocatalytic Degradation of Congo Red Dye Using Magnetic Silica-Coated Ag₂WO₄/Ag₂S as Type I Heterojunction Photocatalyst: Stability and Mechanisms Studies
    Authors: ZH Jabbar, BH Graimed, MA Issa, SH Ammar, SE Ebrahim, HJ Khadim, et al.
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 72

  • Title: Ecofriendly Adsorption and Sensitive Detection of Hg (II) by Biomass-Derived Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Dots: Process Modelling Using Central Composite Design
    Authors: MA Issa, H Zentou, ZH Jabbar, ZZ Abidin, H Harun, NAA Halim, et al.
    Year: 2022
    Citations: 41

  • Title: Modelling of Mass Transfer During Pervaporation of Ethanol/Water Mixture Using Polydimethylsiloxane Membrane
    Authors: H Zentou, ZZ Abidin, R Yunus, DRA Biak, MA Issa, MY Pudza
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 13

  • Title: Optimization and Modeling of the Performance of Polydimethylsiloxane for Pervaporation of Ethanol− Water Mixture
    Authors: H Zentou, ZZ Abidin, R Yunus, DRA Biak, MA Issa
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 9

  • Title: A New Model of Alcoholic Fermentation Under a Byproduct Inhibitory Effect
    Authors: H Zentou, Z Zainal Abidin, R Yunus, DR Awang Biak, M Abdullah Issa, et al.
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 30

  • Title: Sustainable Development of Enhanced Luminescence Polymer-Carbon Dots Composite Film for Rapid Cd²⁺ Removal from Wastewater
    Authors: M Abdullah Issa, Z Z. Abidin
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 39

Fay Horak | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Prof.Fay Horak | Neuroscience |nes Best Researcher Award

Endowed Progessor at Oregon Health & Science University, United States

Dr. Fay Marie Bahling Horak is a globally renowned researcher in neurology, specializing in movement and balance disorders. As the Jay Nutt Endowed Professor of Clinical Research of Movement Disorders at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), she has made groundbreaking contributions to understanding postural control, gait disorders, and Parkinson’s disease. With over four decades of research, she has secured multi-million-dollar grants from NIH, MJFF, VA, and DoD, driving advancements in wearable sensor technology and rehabilitation strategies. Dr. Horak’s highly cited publications, patents, and leadership in the field have earned her numerous prestigious awards, including the NIH MERIT Award, Research.com Best Female Scientist Award, and Neural Control of Movement Distinguished Career Award. She is an Adjunct Professor at multiple international institutions, a Chief Scientist at APDM Wearable Technologies, and a dedicated mentor shaping the next generation of researchers. Her work continues to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and clinical application, making her a pioneer in movement disorder rehabilitation.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Fay Horak has a strong educational foundation in physiology, neurophysiology, and physical therapy, which has shaped her distinguished career in movement disorder research. She earned her Ph.D. in Physiology & Biophysics from the University of Washington in 1982, following a Master’s degree in Neurophysiology from the University of Minnesota in 1977. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy from the University of Wisconsin in 1973. She further honed her expertise through a postdoctoral fellowship in Balance Disorders at the Neurological Sciences Institute (Good Samaritan Hospital, Portland) from 1982 to 1985. This diverse educational background provided her with the interdisciplinary knowledge necessary to become a leader in neurology, biomechanics, and rehabilitation science.

Professional Experience

Dr. Fay Horak has had an extensive and influential career in neurology, movement disorders, and rehabilitation research. She has been a Professor at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) since 1990, currently serving as the Jay Nutt Endowed Professor of Clinical Research of Movement Disorders in the Department of Neurology. She is also the Director of the Balance Disorders and Fall Prevention Laboratory, where she leads pioneering research on gait, posture, and neurological rehabilitation. Over the years, she has held adjunct professorships at multiple institutions worldwide, including the University of Bologna (Italy), Simon Fraser University (Canada), and the University of Waterloo (Canada). She previously served as a Senior Scientist at the Neurological Sciences Institute and a Supervisory Research Scientist at the Portland VA Health Care System. Beyond academia, Dr. Horak has contributed to industry innovation as the Chief Scientist at APDM Wearable Technologies (a Clario company), advancing sensor-based movement assessments. Her diverse experience in research, teaching, and clinical applications has established her as a global leader in movement science and rehabilitation.

Research Interest

Dr. Fay Horak’s research focuses on neurological movement disorders, postural control, gait dysfunction, and rehabilitation strategies. She is particularly interested in understanding the mechanisms of balance and mobility impairments in conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and aging-related movement disorders. Her work integrates neuroscience, biomechanics, and wearable sensor technology to develop innovative assessment tools and rehabilitation interventions aimed at improving mobility and preventing falls. She has led pioneering studies on freezing of gait, cortical control of posture, and sensorimotor integration, influencing both clinical practice and therapeutic development. Through multidisciplinary collaborations and high-impact research, Dr. Horak continues to shape the future of neurological rehabilitation and movement science.

Award and Honor

Dr. Fay Horak has received numerous prestigious awards and honors in recognition of her groundbreaking contributions to movement disorders research and rehabilitation science. She was honored with the NIH MERIT Award for 25 years of continuous R01 research funding, a testament to her sustained excellence in scientific inquiry. She has also received the Research.com Best Female Scientist Award, Neural Control of Movement Distinguished Career Award, and the International Society of Posture & Gait Research Honorary Membership. Her work has been widely cited, earning her recognition for having one of the 10 most cited papers in the last 125 years by the American Physiological Society. Additionally, she has received multiple accolades from the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), including the Catherine Worthingham Fellows Award and the Anne Shumway-Cook Neuroscience Translation Lectureship Award. Her impact extends beyond academia, as she has been recognized for technological innovation, receiving the OHSU Technology Innovation Award and patents for mobility assessment tools. Through these honors, Dr. Horak’s legacy as a pioneering researcher and mentor in movement science and neurorehabilitation continues to be celebrated globally.

Conclusion

Dr. Fay Marie Bahling Horak is an exceptional, world-renowned researcher in neurology, movement disorders, and rehabilitation. Her contributions to balance disorders, Parkinson’s disease, and wearable motion technology make her a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Her groundbreaking research, global collaborations, mentorship, and industry impact establish her as a leading expert in the field, making her an excellent choice for this prestigious recognition. 🚀

Publications Top Noted

  • Title: Daily life mobility detects frailty, falls, and functioning in older prostate cancer survivors treated with androgen deprivation therapy
    Authors: Tibbitts, D.C., Mancini, M., Stoyles, S., Horak, F.B., Winters-Stone, K.M.
    Year: 2025
    Citation: Journal of Geriatric Oncology, 16(2), 102180
  • Title: Complex Exercises Improve Cognition in People With Parkinson’s Disease and Freezing of Gait
    Authors: Silva-Batista, C., Almeida, F.O.D., Batista, A., Horak, F.B., Ugrinowitsch, C.
    Year: 2025
    Citation: Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair, 39(1), pp. 3–15
  • Title: Correction to: Mobilise-D insights to estimate real-world walking speed in multiple conditions with a wearable device
    Authors: Kirk, C., Küderle, A., Micó-Amigo, M.E., Curreli, C., Bottin, F.
    Year: 2024
    Citation: Scientific Reports, 14(1), 28878
  • Title: Accelerating Parkinson’s Disease drug development with federated learning approaches
    Authors: Khanna, A., Adams, J., Antoniades, C., Wagner, J.A., Jones, G.B.
    Year: 2024
    Citation: npj Parkinson’s Disease, 10(1), 225
  • Title: Reply to E. Shash
    Authors: Shah, V., Muzyka, D., Guidarelli, C., Horak, F., Winters-Stone, K.
    Year: 2024
    Citation: JCO Precision Oncology, 8
  • Title: Effects of balance constraints during a double-step reaching task
    Authors: Moya-Jofré, C., Mariman, J.J., Bruna-Melo, T., Mancini, M., Burgos, P.I.
    Year: 2024
    Citation: Gait and Posture, 113, pp. 130–138
  • Title: ISB recommendations on the definition, estimation, and reporting of joint kinematics in human motion analysis applications using wearable inertial measurement technology
    Authors: Cereatti, A., Gurchiek, R., Mündermann, A., Delp, S., Aminian, K.
    Year: 2024
    Citation: Journal of Biomechanics, 173, 112225
  • Title: A Pragmatic Review on Spinal Cord Stimulation Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease Gait Related Disorders: Gaps and Controversies
    Authors: Hvingelby, V.S., Carra, R.B., Terkelsen, M.H., Welter, M.-L., Zrinzo, L.
    Year: 2024
    Citation: Movement Disorders Clinical Practice, 11(8), pp. 927–947
  • Title: The Use of Novel Instrumented Socks to Detect Changes in Daily Life Mobility During an Exercise Intervention in Prostate Cancer Survivors Treated with Androgen Deprivation Therapy
    Authors: Tibbitts, D.C., Stoyles, S.A., Mancini, M., Dieckmann, N.F., Winters-Stone, K.M.
    Year: 2024
    Citation: Seminars in Oncology Nursing, 40(4), 151658
  • Title: Can strength training or tai ji quan training reduce frailty in postmenopausal women treated with chemotherapy? A secondary data analysis of the GET FIT trial
    Authors: Winters-Stone, K.M., Stoyles, S.A., Dieckmann, N.F., Roeland, E.J., Li, F.
    Year: 2024
    Citation: Journal of Cancer Survivorship, 18(4), pp. 1179–1189