Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dalia Haroun | Health | Women Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dalia Haroun | Health | Women Researcher Award

Zayed University, United Arab Emirates

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Dalia Haroun’s academic journey reflects a steadfast dedication to the field of nutrition and child health. Her passion for understanding the complexities of human nutrition began at the American University of Beirut, where she earned her B.Sc. (Hons) in Nutrition and Dietetics between 1998 and 2002. This foundational education shaped her interest in the broader implications of diet on human development, particularly in the vulnerable stages of childhood.

With a desire to deepen her expertise, Dr. Haroun pursued a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition and Immunology at the University of Surrey, London, from 2003 to 2004. Graduating with distinction, she wrote a thesis on the hydration of fat-free mass in obese versus non-obese children, which set the stage for her future research. Her academic curiosity continued at University College London, where she completed her Ph.D. in Child Health between 2005 and 2008. Her doctoral thesis, titled “Body Composition in Childhood Obesity,” established her as a dedicated scholar committed to investigating the health challenges faced by children in modern society.

🧪 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Haroun is currently serving as an Associate Professor of Nutrition and Co-Chair of the Department of Health Sciences at Zayed University, located in the United Arab Emirates. Since 2011, she has contributed meaningfully to the academic and professional growth of the department while actively mentoring future public health and nutrition professionals.

Her educational background has been supplemented by various specialized trainings that underscore her multidisciplinary expertise. These include DXA (Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry) training, Good Clinical Practice, and Peapod Body Composition Assessment training, in addition to certifications in First Aid and CPR. These credentials empower her to bring both academic depth and practical insights to the classroom and her research endeavors.

In addition to her teaching and research responsibilities, Dr. Haroun has actively participated in organizing national and regional initiatives related to public health awareness. Her role at Zayed University allows her to blend pedagogy, community engagement, and scientific investigation—qualities that have defined her professional character.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Haroun’s scholarly focus lies in child health, with an emphasis on body composition, childhood obesity, metabolic syndrome, and the psychosocial aspects of health such as bullying among children. Her research is interdisciplinary, bridging nutrition science with public health and behavioral studies.

A significant aspect of her work involves evaluating the physiological and psychological consequences of obesity among youth. Through her studies, Dr. Haroun explores how nutrition, physical activity, and psychosocial variables interact and affect the health outcomes of children. Her academic contributions, including peer-reviewed publications, are vital resources in the regional and global discourse surrounding childhood nutrition and health equity.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Over the years, Dr. Haroun has been repeatedly recognized for her tireless efforts in promoting child health in the UAE and beyond. In 2014, she was honored by the Ministry of Health for orchestrating a successful National Training Workshop on the Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV/AIDS.

Her consistent engagement in awareness campaigns and health education projects has earned her commendations from a variety of national bodies. The Dubai Education Zone, Ministry of Education, General Women’s Union, and UNICEF have all recognized her impactful work in areas such as child obesity prevention, injury awareness, and diabetes education. In 2010, she was honored by the Princess Haya Initiative for the Development of Health, Physical Education, and School Sports, a prestigious acknowledgment of her community-centric contributions.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Haroun’s influence stretches far beyond academic walls. Through her combined teaching, research, and public health initiatives, she has helped shape health policies and school-based intervention programs in the UAE. Her efforts have directly impacted thousands of children and families, particularly in the domains of obesity prevention, nutritional awareness, and health education.

Her collaborative projects with governmental and non-governmental organizations demonstrate a commitment not only to scholarship but also to societal well-being. By fostering partnerships and engaging in interdisciplinary efforts, she continues to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking forward, Dr. Dalia Haroun is well-positioned to continue her legacy as a pioneering scholar and community advocate in the Middle East and globally. Her future research is expected to delve deeper into the social determinants of child health, exploring innovative interventions to combat obesity and metabolic disorders.

As she continues to mentor students and professionals, she ensures that the next generation of health leaders are equipped with the knowledge, empathy, and scientific rigor required to tackle the world’s pressing health challenges. Her journey from a promising nutrition student in Beirut to a globally recognized academic leader in the UAE exemplifies a life of purpose, impact, and transformative vision.

📝Notable Publications

Validity of self-reported weight and height among female young adults in the United Arab Emirates

Authors: Dalia Haroun and Aseel Ehsanallah

Journal: PLOS ONE

Year: 2024 

Dr. Davood Shishebor | Performance Management | Leadership and Research Excellence Award

Dr. Davood Shishebor | Performance Management | Leadership and Research Excellence Award

Yazd Universitym, Iran

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Davood Shishebori’s academic journey is marked by a strong foundation in industrial engineering, beginning with his Master of Science in Industrial Engineering and Systems from Isfahan University. His thirst for knowledge led him to pursue a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering at the Iran University of Science and Technology (IUST), where he specialized in facility location and network design with a focus on system reliability. His dissertation, supervised by Professor M. S. Jabalameli, demonstrated his early commitment to solving complex industrial and logistical challenges through mathematical modeling.

His academic exposure expanded internationally when he undertook a visiting Ph.D. course at Lehigh University, Pennsylvania, in 2012 under the supervision of Professor Lawrence V. Snyder. This experience provided him with valuable insights into global industrial systems and solidified his expertise in network optimization and supply chain reliability. His early academic pursuits reflect a deep passion for analytical problem-solving and a drive to enhance efficiency in industrial engineering.

Professional Endeavors 🏛️

Shishebori’s professional career is a testament to his dedication to both academia and practical applications in the field of industrial engineering. He currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Industrial Engineering Department at Yazd University, where he plays a crucial role in mentoring students and conducting pioneering research. Additionally, as the Head of the Quality and Productivity Center at Yazd University, he has been instrumental in promoting innovative methodologies that enhance operational efficiency across various industries.

In 2024, he was invited as a professor in the Department of Systems Engineering at École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS), University of Quebec, Montreal, Canada, where he collaborates with Associate Professor Armin Jabbarzadeh on cutting-edge research projects. His expertise and international engagements highlight his status as a leading figure in industrial and systems engineering.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Shishebori’s research primarily revolves around facility location, network design, supply chain reliability, and quality management. His work integrates mathematical modeling and optimization techniques to enhance decision-making processes in industrial systems. His significant contributions include:

  • Mathematical Modeling for Facility Location & Network Design – His Ph.D. research laid the foundation for optimizing industrial networks by incorporating system reliability into facility location decisions.
  • Supply Chain Optimization – He has worked extensively on robust and stochastic models to enhance supply chain resilience against disruptions.
  • Quality and Productivity Improvement – As the head of the Quality and Productivity Center at Yazd University, he has spearheaded initiatives that bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical industrial applications.

His collaborations with international institutions, particularly in Canada and the United States, have further expanded his research impact, leading to numerous publications in high-impact journals.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Shishebori’s contributions to industrial engineering have earned him numerous accolades and recognition within the academic and professional communities. His expertise in network design, supply chain resilience, and quality engineering has made him a sought-after expert in these fields. Some key recognitions include:

  • Invitation as a Visiting Professor at ÉTS, Canada (2024-2025) – A prestigious acknowledgment of his expertise in systems engineering.
  • Research collaborations with global scholars, including Professors Armin Jabbarzadeh (ÉTS) and Lawrence V. Snyder (Lehigh University).
  • Recognition for his contributions to supply chain reliability and quality management, with his work being cited extensively in leading industrial engineering research.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Shishebori’s research and academic contributions extend beyond the classroom and research labs. His work has directly influenced:

  • Industrial Practices – Through the Quality and Productivity Center at Yazd University, he has helped organizations implement efficient supply chain strategies and quality improvement frameworks.
  • Academic Community – As a professor and mentor, he has guided numerous students in industrial engineering, many of whom have gone on to contribute significantly to academia and industry.
  • International Collaboration – His engagements with universities in Canada and the United States have fostered knowledge exchange and advanced research in industrial engineering.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

As a distinguished academic and industry expert, Davood Shishebori’s legacy is defined by his commitment to advancing industrial engineering through research, education, and practical applications. Moving forward, he aims to:

  • Expand his research in AI-driven industrial optimization to develop smarter, data-driven decision-making models.
  • Strengthen international collaborations, particularly in North America and Europe, to further enrich industrial engineering methodologies.
  • Mentor the next generation of industrial engineers, ensuring that future professionals are well-equipped to tackle complex engineering challenges.

📝Notable Publications

  • Robust and reliable medical services network design under uncertain environment and system disruptions
  • Robust design of a multi-objective closed-loop supply chain by integrating on-time delivery, cost, and environmental aspects, case study of a Tire Factory
  • Designing a new mathematical model based on ABC analysis for inventory control problem: A real case study
  • A bi-objective production-distribution problem in a supply chain network under grey flexible conditions
  • Development of sustainable and resilient healthcare and non-cold pharmaceutical distribution supply chain for COVID-19 pandemic: a case study

 

Prof Baharak Akhtardanesh | Infection disease | Women Researcher Award

Prof Baharak Akhtardanesh | Infection disease | Women Researcher Award

Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, IRAN, Iran

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Baharak Akhtardanesh’s journey into veterinary medicine began at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Iran, where she pursued her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from 1995 to 2001. Her thesis, titled “Bacteriological and Serological Survey of Brucellosis in Female Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) Slaughtered in Ahvaz Slaughterhouse and Its Public Health and Economic Importance,” demonstrated her early commitment to veterinary public health and zoonotic diseases. This research laid a strong foundation for her future contributions to veterinary medicine.

Building on her passion for small animal medicine, Dr. Akhtardanesh pursued advanced training at the Veterinary Faculty of Tehran University, obtaining her Ph.D. (DVSc) in Small Animal Internal Medicine from 2001 to 2005. Her doctoral research focused on “Detection of Gastric Helicobacter-like Organisms (GHLOs) in Domestic and Stray Cats in Tehran Province via PCR,” reflecting her deep interest in gastrointestinal diseases in companion animals. This pioneering work helped enhance the understanding of feline gastric disorders and their implications for both animal and human health.

🌍 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Akhtardanesh embarked on her professional career with a clear focus on clinical medicine, teaching, and research. She underwent a rigorous four-year residency training program in Small Animal Internal Medicine at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman. This program prepared her for a distinguished career in academic veterinary medicine and specialty practice, emphasizing advanced diagnostics, treatment planning, and clinical research.

From 2005 to 2020, she served as a consulting veterinarian at the Animal House Unit of Kerman University of Medical Sciences. In this role, she provided critical guidance on laboratory animal welfare, regulatory compliance, and research ethics, ensuring humane treatment and optimal care for laboratory animals used in scientific research.

Dr. Akhtardanesh also played an instrumental role in veterinary education and hospital management. She held the position of Vice Director of the Clinical Science Department at Shahid Bahonar University from 2014 to 2018. Additionally, she served as Head of the Small Animal Internal Medicine Ward from 2006 to 2014 and again from 2020 to 2024, overseeing the training of future veterinarians and ensuring the highest standards of patient care in the university’s teaching referral hospital.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

As a board-certified internist, Dr. Akhtardanesh has made substantial contributions to small animal internal medicine. She specializes in diagnosing and treating complex medical conditions in dogs, cats, rabbits, and rodents. Her expertise includes gastrointestinal disorders, infectious diseases, metabolic syndromes, and internal medicine emergencies.

Her research interests are broad and impactful, covering topics such as:

  • Zoonotic Diseases – Investigating bacterial and viral infections transmitted between animals and humans.
  • Gastrointestinal Pathology – Exploring Helicobacter spp. infections in small animals.
  • Endocrine Disorders – Studying diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and adrenal diseases in companion animals.
  • Clinical Pharmacology – Evaluating the efficacy and safety of new treatment protocols for small animal diseases.

Dr. Akhtardanesh’s work has been published in numerous high-impact veterinary journals, and she actively contributes to the scientific community through conferences and symposia. She is also dedicated to mentoring veterinary students and interns, shaping the next generation of veterinary professionals.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Akhtardanesh’s dedication to veterinary medicine has earned her several accolades and professional honors. She is widely respected in the field for her clinical acumen, research contributions, and commitment to veterinary education. Her membership in prestigious veterinary organizations and her extensive publication record further attest to her influence and expertise.

Her commitment to continuous learning and professional development has made her a sought-after speaker at national and international veterinary conferences. Additionally, her role in the training of veterinary interns and residents has cemented her reputation as a leader in veterinary academia.

💪 Impact and Influence

Beyond her clinical and academic responsibilities, Dr. Akhtardanesh has had a profound impact on veterinary medicine in Iran and beyond. Her efforts in improving laboratory animal welfare have set new benchmarks for ethical research practices. As a mentor, she has guided numerous students and young veterinarians, inspiring them to pursue excellence in small animal internal medicine.

Through her research and clinical expertise, she has significantly advanced the understanding of internal medicine disorders in companion animals. Her contributions to diagnostic methodologies, treatment protocols, and disease prevention strategies continue to benefit veterinarians and pet owners alike.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

As Dr. Baharak Akhtardanesh looks ahead, she remains committed to advancing veterinary medicine through innovative research, education, and clinical excellence. Her future endeavors include:

  • Expanding research on zoonotic diseases and their implications for public health.
  • Developing new diagnostic techniques and treatment strategies for small animal medicine.
  • Enhancing veterinary education through modern pedagogical approaches and hands-on training programs.
  • Advocating for improved standards in laboratory animal welfare and ethical research practices.

📝Notable Publications

Feline immunodeficiency virus, feline leukemia virus and Toxoplasma gondii in stray and household cats in Kerman–Iran: Seroprevalence and correlation with clinical and …

Authors: B. Akhtardanesh, N. Ziaali, H. Sharifi, S. Rezaei
Journal: Research in Veterinary Science
Year: 2010

Canine heartworm in southeastern of Iran with review of disease distribution

Authors: J. Khedri, M.H. Radfar, H. Borji, M. Azizzadeh, B. Akhtardanesh
Journal: Iranian Journal of Parasitology
Year: 2014

Feline visceral leishmaniasis in Kerman, southeast of Iran: serological and molecular study

Authors: B. Akhtardanesh, I. Sharifi, A. Mohammadi, M. Mostafavi, M. Hakimmipour, …
Journal: Journal of Vector Borne Diseases
Year: 2017

erological evidence of canine monocytic ehrlichiosis in Iran

Authors: B. Akhtardanesh, R. Ghanbarpour, H. Blourizadeh
Journal: Comparative Clinical Pathology
Year: 2010

 Metastatic apocrine sweat gland adenocarcinoma in a terrier d

Authors: A. Baharak, K. Reza, D. Shahriar, A. Omid, V. Daruoosh, A. Nasrin
Journal: Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine
Year: 2012