Risa Yamada | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Risa Yamada | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Researcher from National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan

Risa Yamada is an esteemed Chief Researcher at the Department of Preventive Intervention for Psychiatric Disorders, National Institute of Mental Health, National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Japan. Her research primarily focuses on neuropsychopharmacology, epidemiology, and neurophysiology in patients with psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, mood disorders, and substance abuse. She is renowned for her pioneering work in the epidemiology of gambling disorders, exploring the impact of comorbid behavioral addiction. Her research has yielded significant insights into the effectiveness of serotonin-5-HT1A receptor partial agonists for cognitive enhancement in schizophrenia, with findings published in prestigious journals. Additionally, she is conducting cutting-edge research on transcranial photobiomodulation to ameliorate cognitive deficits in schizophrenia. Yamada has made notable contributions to the understanding of depression severity and the role of adverse childhood experiences in mood disorders. With a background in clinical psychology and neuropsychopharmacology, she is a rising leader in the field of psychiatric research.

Professional Profile

Education

Risa Yamada completed her medical education at the Jikei University School of Medicine, earning her Ph.D. in February 2023. Prior to this, she received a Bachelor of Science degree from Toho University in 2011 and a Master of Psychology from Teikyo University in 2018. Throughout her educational journey, she focused on the intersection of clinical psychology and psychiatry, particularly in understanding the neuropsychological aspects of psychiatric disorders. Her academic development laid a strong foundation for her subsequent research career. In addition to her medical degrees, Yamada holds certifications as a Clinical Psychologist (2019) and a Public Psychologist (2019), which further demonstrate her expertise and commitment to advancing psychological and psychiatric research. These educational qualifications, coupled with her practical research experience, allow Yamada to contribute significantly to the development of new treatment strategies for psychiatric conditions, particularly those related to cognitive dysfunction and behavioral addictions.

Professional Experience

Risa Yamada currently serves as the Chief Researcher at the Department of Preventive Intervention for Psychiatric Disorders at the National Institute of Mental Health, part of the National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry in Tokyo, Japan. She has been in this role since September 2021 and has been instrumental in leading research focused on cognitive impairments in psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia. Yamada’s career began as a Research Associate in the Department of Mental Disorder Research at the National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry from 2018 to 2021, where she investigated depression severity and its links to adverse childhood experiences and coping styles. Prior to her current position, she conducted a doctoral research project at Jikei University, where she explored the relationship between gambling disorder and psychiatric conditions. Her extensive experience spans multiple research settings, with her work having a significant impact on clinical understanding and treatment development for various psychiatric conditions. Yamada’s role as a researcher and educator also extends to her involvement in several leading academic societies in psychiatry and neuropsychopharmacology.

Research Interests

Risa Yamada’s research interests lie at the intersection of clinical psychology, psychiatry, and neuropsychopharmacology. She is deeply engaged in studying the cognitive and neurophysiological aspects of psychiatric disorders, particularly schizophrenia, mood disorders, and behavioral addictions such as gambling disorders. Her work focuses on the use of neuropsychological methods to explore the biological and psychological underpinnings of these conditions, with a particular emphasis on cognitive impairment. One of her notable research projects involves studying the augmentation of cognitive function in schizophrenia using serotonin-5-HT1A receptor partial agonists, a promising avenue for improving psychotic symptoms and cognitive deficits. Additionally, Yamada is investigating the potential of transcranial photobiomodulation, a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, to address cognitive impairments in patients with schizophrenia. She also explores the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and mood disorders, with the goal of identifying effective biomarkers and treatments for negative valence in psychiatric conditions. Her research aims to advance both theoretical understanding and practical interventions for these prevalent and challenging mental health conditions.

Research Skills

Risa Yamada possesses a diverse and advanced skill set in clinical research, particularly in the fields of neuropsychopharmacology, epidemiology, and neurophysiology. She is proficient in conducting meta-analyses and cross-sectional studies, particularly related to psychiatric disorders and cognitive dysfunction. Her expertise in neuropsychological methods allows her to investigate complex interactions between psychological traits and psychiatric conditions. Yamada is skilled in using clinical scales and neurophysiological tools, such as skin conductivity measures, to assess psychological traits like interoception and alexithymia in relation to psychiatric conditions. Furthermore, she has experience in neuroimaging techniques, including the use of transcranial photobiomodulation for brain stimulation. Yamada’s work with behavioral addiction, particularly gambling disorders, demonstrates her ability to apply epidemiological methods to mental health research. She is also adept at analyzing large-scale clinical data sets and using statistical models to explore the relationship between psychiatric symptoms and demographic variables. These research skills enable her to lead impactful studies that contribute both to the scientific community and to practical applications in the treatment of psychiatric disorders.

Awards and Honors

Risa Yamada has received recognition for her contributions to psychiatric research, particularly in the areas of neuropsychopharmacology and behavioral addiction. She has been awarded several academic honors, including recognition for her groundbreaking research on gambling disorders, which was the first of its kind in Japan. Her work on cognitive enhancement therapies for schizophrenia has been published in high-impact journals, earning her a reputation as a leader in the field. While she has not yet received large-scale awards, her growing recognition within the academic community and her role as Chief Researcher at the National Institute of Mental Health reflect her increasing influence. Yamada’s contributions to psychiatric research have been acknowledged through invitations to present her findings at prestigious international conferences. She is also a member of several leading professional societies, including the Collegium Internationale Neuro-Psychopharmacologicum and the Japanese Society of Neuropsychopharmacology, further solidifying her status as a respected researcher.

Conclusion

Risa Yamada is a highly promising and accomplished researcher in the field of psychiatry, with a focus on neuropsychopharmacology, neurophysiology, and epidemiology. Her work has already made a significant impact, particularly in the understanding of cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia and gambling disorders. With a robust educational background and extensive professional experience, Yamada is well-positioned to continue contributing to the advancement of psychiatric research. Her innovative approach to non-invasive brain stimulation, alongside her focus on biomarkers for psychiatric conditions, highlights her potential for further breakthroughs. While her research is primarily centered on schizophrenia and mood disorders, expanding her focus to other psychiatric conditions would enhance the breadth of her contributions. With continued growth in international collaboration and further emphasis on translational research, Yamada has the potential to make a lasting impact on both clinical practice and scientific understanding in the field of psychiatry.

Publications Top Notes

  • Clinical Significance of Psychiatric Comorbidities Among Outpatients With Gambling Disorder in Japan: A 12-Month Follow-Up Study
    Authors: Yamada, R., Stickley, A., Shigeta, M., Miyata, H.
    Year: 2025

  • Semantic memory disorganization linked to social functioning in patients with schizophrenia
    Authors: Wada, A., Sumiyoshi, C., Yoshimura, N., Hashimoto, R., Matsumoto, J., Stickley, A., Yamada, Y., Kikuchi, A., Kubota, R., Matsui, M., Nakachi, K., Fujimaki, C., Adachi, L., Yamada, R., Sumiyoshi, T.
    Year: 2025

  • Autistic trait severity in early schizophrenia: Role in subjective quality of life and social functioning
    Authors: Wada, A., Yamada, R., Yamada, Y., Sumiyoshi, C., Hashimoto, R., Matsumoto, J., Kikuchi, A., Kubota, R., Matsui, M., Nakachi, K., Fujimaki, C., Adachi, L., Stickley, A., Yoshimura, N., Sumiyoshi, T.
    Year: 2025

  • Problematic gambling and psychotic-like experiences: Findings from Japan
    Authors: Stickley, A., Shirama, A., Yamada, R., Sumiyoshi, T.
    Year: 2024

  • Augmentation therapy with serotonin1A receptor partial agonists on neurocognitive function in schizophrenia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
    Authors: Yamada, R., Wada, A., Stickley, A., Yokoi, Y., Sumiyoshi, T.
    Year: 2023

  • Effect of 5-HT1A Receptor Partial Agonists of the Azapirone Class as an Add-On Therapy on Psychopathology and Cognition in Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
    Authors: Yamada, R., Wada, A., Stickley, A., Yokoi, Y., Sumiyoshi, T.
    Year: 2023

  • Prevalence and Clinical Significance of Psychiatric Comorbidities With Gambling Disorder in 12 Clinical Settings in Japan
    Authors: Yamada, R., Miyashita, K., Hashimoto, T. M., et al.
    Year: 2023

  • Discrepancy between Clinician-rated and Self-reported Depression Severity is Associated with Adverse Childhood Experience, Autistic-like Traits, and Coping Styles in Mood Disorders
    Authors: Yamada, R., Fujii, T., Hattori, K., et al.
    Year: 2023

  • The relationship between severity of drug problems and perceived interdependence of drug use and sexual intercourse among adult males in drug addiction rehabilitation centers in Japan
    Authors: Yamada, R., Shimane, T., Kondo, A., Yonezawa, M., Matsumoto, T.
    Year: 2021

Wangari Mutuku | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Wangari Mutuku | Health Professions | Best Researcher Award

Public Health Lecturer from Kenya medical training college, Kenya

Josephine Mutuku is a seasoned Public Health professional with over six years of diverse experience in data science, research, and teaching. With expertise in data-driven decision-making, mixed-method research, and public health policy development, she has contributed significantly to the field. Currently serving as a Public and Community Health Lecturer at the Kenya Medical Training College, she is involved in shaping the curriculum and delivering high-quality education. Her career includes key roles at notable organizations, such as the African Population Health Research Centre, Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, and the Ministry of Health, where she applied her expertise in epidemiology, data analysis, and public health education. Josephine’s dedication to improving community health through evidence-based practices has been demonstrated through her various research projects and public health initiatives. She holds a Master’s in Public Health from Mount Kenya University and a Bachelor’s in Environmental Health from Pwani University. Her work has had a profound impact on public health in Kenya, and she is continually expanding her knowledge and skills to address the evolving needs of global health.

Professional Profile

Education

Josephine Mutuku’s educational background reflects a strong foundation in public health and environmental health, which underpins her extensive career in the field. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Health at Mount Kenya University, expected to graduate in 2024. Her undergraduate studies in Environmental Health at Pwani University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree, have provided her with a deep understanding of the environmental factors that influence public health. Additionally, Josephine’s early education in secondary school, at Matungulu Girls’ School, gave her the academic discipline and determination to pursue higher education. Josephine has further enhanced her expertise through various certifications, including those from prestigious institutions such as the University of Washington, University of Nairobi, and the African Population Health Research Centre. These certifications have expanded her knowledge in areas like project management, global health policy development, and mental health, equipping her with a diverse skill set that she continues to apply in her research and professional roles. Her ongoing commitment to education reflects her desire to stay at the forefront of public health developments and contribute meaningfully to the field.

Professional Experience

Josephine Mutuku’s professional experience spans a variety of roles in public health, research, and education, showcasing her versatility and dedication to advancing health outcomes. Since March 2023, she has served as a Public and Community Health Lecturer at the Kenya Medical Training College, where she is responsible for delivering lectures, creating educational content, and managing academic records for students. In addition, Josephine is currently a Research Assistant at the African Population Health Research Centre, where she conducts comprehensive literature reviews, manages data collection processes, and contributes to research report writing. Her previous experience includes roles as a Masters Fellow and Data Scientist at the Centre for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis, where she performed data extraction, cleaning, and analysis to support public health strategies. Additionally, as a Public Health Consultant at Markline Centre for Leadership and Management, Josephine has developed strategic initiatives and contributed to quality improvement projects. Her diverse professional background demonstrates her ability to bridge the gap between academic, research, and community health, making her an influential figure in public health education and practice in Kenya.

Research Interests

Josephine Mutuku’s research interests are centered around improving public health outcomes through evidence-based practices and innovative data analysis techniques. She is particularly interested in epidemiology, public health policy development, and community health interventions. Her work in data science has allowed her to explore how data-driven decision-making can improve health outcomes, especially in resource-limited settings. Josephine is also passionate about mixed-method research, which combines qualitative and quantitative approaches to develop a comprehensive understanding of public health challenges. She has worked on projects related to sexual and reproductive health, environmental health risks, and disease prevention, demonstrating her broad range of research interests. Additionally, Josephine is interested in health education and the development of public health communication strategies that resonate with diverse populations. Her ongoing research endeavors aim to bridge the gap between research findings and actionable public health policies. Through her work, she strives to contribute to sustainable public health solutions that can be implemented in both local and global contexts, with a particular focus on the African continent.

Research Skills

Josephine Mutuku possesses a diverse set of research skills that have been honed through years of practical experience in the public health field. Her expertise in data analysis is a key strength, with proficiency in tools such as R, Python, SPSS, and NVIVO, which she uses to conduct complex analyses and generate insights that inform public health strategies. She has developed strong skills in data visualization and dashboard development, using platforms like Power BI to present findings in a way that is accessible to both healthcare professionals and policymakers. Josephine’s ability to conduct mixed-method research allows her to gather both qualitative and quantitative data, providing a more holistic view of the public health issues at hand. She is also highly skilled in literature reviews, research protocol development, and report writing, contributing to the successful completion of numerous research projects. Her skills in program development and monitoring and evaluation enable her to design and assess public health interventions that are both effective and sustainable. These research competencies, combined with her passion for public health, position her as a skilled and dedicated researcher.

Awards and Honors

Josephine Mutuku has been recognized for her contributions to public health and research through various certifications and academic achievements. While she has not publicly listed any specific awards, her academic and professional qualifications attest to her commitment to excellence. She has earned certifications in several areas relevant to global health, including Global Mental Health for Global Health from the University of Washington, Scientific Manuscript Writing from the University of Nairobi, and Project Management for Global Health from the University of Washington. These certifications not only reflect her ongoing dedication to learning but also enhance her ability to contribute to the advancement of public health initiatives. Additionally, Josephine’s recognition as a lecturer at the Kenya Medical Training College and her role in various public health projects demonstrate her leadership and expertise in the field. Her involvement in high-level research collaborations and her contributions to health policy development further highlight her achievements and the respect she has earned within the public health community.

Conclusion

Josephine Mutuku stands out as a committed and versatile public health professional with a strong academic background, diverse research experience, and a passion for improving health outcomes. Her expertise in epidemiology, data science, and public health policy development, combined with her teaching and consulting roles, make her a well-rounded candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Josephine’s dedication to using data-driven approaches to inform public health decisions and her focus on community health interventions demonstrate her commitment to making a tangible impact. While her research output could benefit from an expanded publication record, her skills, experience, and potential for future growth make her a promising researcher in the public health field. With continued focus on enhancing her leadership in larger-scale research projects and securing more international collaborations, Josephine is poised to make significant contributions to public health research and practice.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Determinants of Male Partner Participation in Antenatal Care at Kangundo Hospital, Kenya

  • Authors: Wangari Mutuku, John Kariuki, Atei Kerochi

  • Journal: Advances in Public Health

  • Publication Date: April 18, 2025

  • Contributors: Wangari Mutuku

Nancy Clark | Health Professions | Women Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nancy Clark | Health Professions | Women Researcher Award

Nursing at University of Victoria, Canada

Dr. Nancy Clark is a dedicated scholar and researcher in the field of nursing, with a particular focus on addressing social and structural inequities in mental health care for underserved populations. She is currently an Assistant Professor at the University of Victoria, where she engages in teaching, research, and community-based initiatives aimed at promoting health equity. Dr. Clark’s research is rooted in critical theory and intersectionality, emphasizing systemic issues such as racism, classism, and sexism that contribute to social exclusion. Her work has led to meaningful contributions in public policy and healthcare service delivery. As a leader in numerous professional organizations, she collaborates with academic, community, and government partners to enhance the well-being of marginalized groups, particularly immigrants and refugees.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Nancy Clark holds a Ph.D. in Nursing from the University of British Columbia (2015), where her dissertation explored community capacity to support Karen refugee women’s mental health during resettlement. She also earned an M.Sc. in Nursing (2005) and a B.Sc. in Nursing (1993) from the same institution. Additionally, she holds a Diploma in Nursing from Langara College (1990). Her academic foundation combines rigorous training in nursing with a focus on mental health and social justice, enabling her to tackle complex healthcare challenges.

Professional Experience

Dr. Clark has over three decades of professional experience in nursing, academia, and community practice. Since 2017, she has served as an Assistant Professor at the University of Victoria, where she teaches and conducts research on mental health equity. Her previous roles include faculty appointments at Vancouver Community College and adjunct positions at the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University. Dr. Clark also has extensive experience in clinical practice, having worked in roles such as Community Mental Health Nurse, Case Manager, and Clinical Instructor in mental health and addictions. Her diverse career highlights her expertise in both theoretical and applied aspects of nursing and mental health care.

Research Interests

Dr. Clark’s research focuses on the intersection of mental health, social justice, and public policy, with an emphasis on addressing inequities affecting refugees, immigrants, and other marginalized groups. Her work explores the impact of systemic factors like racism, classism, and sexism on healthcare access and outcomes. She employs qualitative research methods, including ethnography and community-based participatory approaches, to give voice to underserved populations. Her program of research seeks to promote social justice by influencing healthcare policies and practices to recognize and address structural vulnerabilities. She is particularly interested in post-colonial and intersectionality theories, which frame her critical examination of health disparities.

Research Skills

Dr. Clark possesses advanced research skills in qualitative methodologies, including ethnographic and community-based participatory research. Her expertise extends to applying critical theoretical frameworks such as intersectionality and standpoint feminism to investigate systemic inequities in healthcare. She is adept at conducting gender-based policy analyses and translating research findings into actionable policy recommendations. Additionally, her experience in community engagement enables her to design and implement research projects that are both impactful and culturally sensitive, ensuring that marginalized populations have a voice in shaping health services and policies.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Clark’s contributions to nursing and mental health research have earned her numerous accolades and leadership roles. She is a recognized member of several prestigious organizations, including the Health Equity Collaborative Network and the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing, where she chaired the Mental Health Nurse Educator Group. Her appointment as an Affiliate Researcher at multiple institutions, such as the UBC Centre for Migration Studies and Fraser Health Authority, underscores her influence in the field. Additionally, she has been invited to serve as a Council Member for Pathways to Prosperity Canada, highlighting her commitment to fostering inclusive communities.

Conclusion

Dr. Nancy Clark is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to her impactful contributions to addressing health inequities among marginalized populations. Her work is rooted in critical theory, social justice, and community engagement, making her research highly relevant and transformative. By expanding her dissemination efforts and emphasizing quantifiable impacts, she could further solidify her position as a leading researcher in the field.

Publication Top Notes

  • Spirituality and treatment choices by South and East Asian women with serious mental illness
    Authors: L Chiu, M Morrow, S Ganesan, N Clark
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 81
  • Pilot study and evaluation of postgraduate course on “the interface between spirituality, religion and psychiatry”
    Authors: A Grabovac, N Clark, M McKenna
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 72
  • Applying intersectionality with constructive grounded theory as an innovative research approach for studying complex populations: Demonstrating congruency
    Authors: S Kassam, L Marcellus, N Clark, J O’Mahony
    Year: 2020
    Citations: 53
  • Religion and spirituality in the context of bipolar disorder: A literature review
    Authors: B Pesut, N Clark, V Maxwell, EE Michalak
    Year: 2011
    Citations: 51
  • Immigrant women and mental health care: Findings from an environmental scan
    Authors: J O’Mahony, N Clark
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 46
  • Exploring community capacity: Karen refugee women’s mental health
    Author: N Clark
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 42
  • Applying critical race feminism and intersectionality to narrative inquiry: A point of resistance for Muslim nurses donning a hijab
    Authors: N Clark, N Saleh
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 39
  • Understanding how self-management interventions work for disadvantaged populations living with chronic conditions: Protocol for a realist synthesis
    Authors: SL Mills, J Pumarino, N Clark, S Carroll, S Dennis, S Koehn, T Yu, …
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 30
  • Exploring intersectionality as a policy tool for gender-based policy analysis: Implications for language and health literacy as key determinants of integration
    Authors: N Clark, B Vissandjée
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 15
  • Themes for evaluating the quality of initiatives to engage patients and family caregivers in decision-making in healthcare systems: A scoping review
    Authors: CB Hamilton, M Dehnadi, ME Snow, N Clark, M Lui, J McLean, …
    Year: 2021
    Citations: 12