Jingwen Zhang | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Jingwen Zhang | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Research Fellow from The University of Melbourne, Australia

Dr. Jingwen Zhang is an emerging epidemiologist specializing in respiratory health, particularly chronic cough in adults. Currently serving as a Research Fellow at the Allergy and Lung Health Unit, The University of Melbourne, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to impactful public health research. With academic training in clinical medicine, public health, and epidemiology, Dr. Zhang brings a unique multidisciplinary perspective to her work. Her research is recognized at both national and international levels, having received prestigious scholarships, competitive grants, and multiple awards for her presentations. She has published extensively and has provided significant contributions as a peer reviewer for leading journals, including The Lancet and New England Journal of Medicine. Beyond her research, Dr. Zhang is actively engaged in teaching, mentoring postgraduate students, organizing scientific meetings, and participating in collaborative initiatives that aim to advance respiratory health research. Her work has attracted considerable media attention, reflecting its relevance to the broader public. Dr. Zhang’s dedication to improving respiratory health outcomes, her leadership in the research community, and her drive for continuous professional development make her a distinguished figure in the field of epidemiology with great potential for future leadership on a global scale.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Jingwen Zhang’s academic journey is a blend of excellence in clinical and public health disciplines. She is currently pursuing her Doctor of Philosophy (Epidemiology) at The University of Melbourne, Australia, from 2019 to 2024. Her research focuses on the epidemiology of adult chronic cough, supported by the prestigious University of Melbourne and China Scholarship Council Joint Scholarship. This scholarship covers her tuition fees and provides a substantial living stipend, reflecting the competitiveness of her candidature. Prior to this, she earned a Master of Public Health with First Class Honours from The University of Melbourne in 2018, showcasing her early academic excellence in the public health domain. Her undergraduate degree in Clinical Medicine, obtained from Qingdao University, China, in 2016, provided her with a strong foundation in medical sciences. This diverse educational background equips her with critical clinical insights and advanced epidemiological skills, making her uniquely capable of translating clinical problems into population-based research solutions. Throughout her studies, Dr. Zhang has actively pursued advanced training and upskilling workshops in contemporary epidemiology, clinical trials, and causal inference, further enhancing her scientific competence and professional readiness to address complex public health issues.

Professional Experience

Dr. Jingwen Zhang’s professional journey is marked by progressive research and academic responsibilities. Since 2023, she has been working as a Research Fellow at the Allergy and Lung Health Unit, The University of Melbourne, contributing to cutting-edge respiratory health research. Between 2021 and 2023, she served as a Research Assistant at the same institution, where she supported numerous projects in chronic cough and lung health epidemiology. Her experience extends to academic teaching as a casual tutor at the Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics in 2021, where she taught core epidemiology subjects and developed teaching materials for advanced courses. Earlier in her career, in 2016, she worked as a teacher and administrative officer at Amio International Education in China, which provided her with valuable organizational and communication skills. Dr. Zhang’s career also reflects her active participation in scientific committee meetings, leadership in organizing collaborative research initiatives, and volunteer contributions at major scientific conferences. These experiences demonstrate her dedication to academic service and her capacity for multi-tasking across research, teaching, mentoring, and community engagement. Her sustained involvement in both the academic and clinical research environment showcases her readiness to contribute at a higher level within the international research community.

Research Interest

Dr. Jingwen Zhang’s primary research interest lies in the epidemiology of chronic cough and its broader implications for respiratory health. Her doctoral research focuses on understanding chronic cough phenotypes and identifying occupational and environmental risk factors associated with different cough types among middle-aged adults. She is particularly interested in how long-term exposure to air pollution and other environmental factors contribute to chronic respiratory conditions. Her work also explores the epidemiology of asthma-COPD overlap and interventions to improve lung function among adults and children. Dr. Zhang’s research interests extend to the development of evidence-based clinical and public health strategies for improving lung health outcomes. Additionally, she is committed to applying advanced epidemiological methods, including causal inference, longitudinal data analysis, and systematic reviews, to address pressing public health issues. She is passionate about translating complex research findings into actionable insights that can shape policy, clinical practice, and public awareness. Dr. Zhang is also actively involved in collaborative cohort studies such as TAHS and PRECURSOR, which provide large-scale data for respiratory health research. Through her multi-dimensional research focus, Dr. Zhang aims to bridge the gap between clinical observations and population health interventions, ultimately improving respiratory disease management and prevention strategies.

Research Skills

Dr. Jingwen Zhang possesses a diverse and highly applicable skill set that supports her work in epidemiology and respiratory health research. She is proficient in advanced epidemiological study designs, data cleaning, and statistical analysis, with strong expertise in using statistical software such as R and REDCap. Dr. Zhang has completed specialized training in causal inference, clinical trials, reproducible research, and contemporary epidemiology, equipping her with the methodological tools necessary for high-impact research. She has substantial experience in data management, including cleaning and processing large cohort datasets, spirometry data, and address tracking for environmental exposure studies. Dr. Zhang is also skilled in systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and longitudinal study methodologies. Additionally, she has developed teaching skills through her involvement in tutorials, course material development, and student assessment. Dr. Zhang’s experience extends to manuscript preparation, scientific communication, and peer reviewing for high-ranking journals. Her organizational capabilities are evident through her role in coordinating large research initiatives, managing academic social media platforms, and hosting scientific meetings. With strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication, Dr. Zhang’s research skills enable her to contribute meaningfully to multidisciplinary teams and deliver impactful epidemiological research outcomes.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her academic and professional journey, Dr. Jingwen Zhang has received several prestigious awards and honors that recognize her contributions to respiratory epidemiology. In 2022, she won the Best Poster Award at the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand Annual Scientific Meeting for her work on occupational risks associated with novel cough phenotypes. In 2023, she received the Golden Prize at the 4th International Cough Conference for her oral presentation on the associations between air pollutants and cough types in middle-aged adults, a recognition that included funding for accommodation and travel. Dr. Zhang was awarded the University of Melbourne and China Scholarship Council Joint Scholarship, a highly competitive program covering both tuition fees and a generous living stipend for her Ph.D. studies. She also secured the PHIRST Grant in 2021 and multiple travel grants in 2024, including the TSANZ Janet Elder International Travel Award. Dr. Zhang’s excellence extends beyond awards, as she has been invited to review manuscripts for leading journals like The Lancet, Thorax, New England Journal of Medicine, and European Respiratory Journal, showcasing her growing influence in the research community. These accolades reflect her scientific rigor, leadership potential, and dedication to improving public health outcomes.

Conclusion

Dr. Jingwen Zhang exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding early-career researcher with a promising future in the field of epidemiology and respiratory health. Her strong academic foundation, research productivity, and active participation in academic service position her as a rising leader in public health research. Dr. Zhang’s work addresses a critical gap in chronic cough epidemiology and contributes valuable knowledge with the potential to influence clinical guidelines and public health policies. She has successfully combined rigorous research with impactful community engagement and international scientific dissemination. Her role as a mentor and organizer further demonstrates her leadership and commitment to building collaborative research environments. With further opportunities to expand international collaborations, increase first-author publications in top-tier journals, and lead larger research grants, Dr. Zhang is well-positioned to achieve global recognition in her field. Her comprehensive skill set, exceptional dedication, and passion for improving respiratory health outcomes make her a highly deserving candidate for prestigious research awards and continued academic advancement. Dr. Zhang’s career trajectory reflects not only her scientific excellence but also her potential to drive meaningful change in public health both nationally and internationally.

Publications Top Notes

1. Associations Between Occupational Exposures and Cough Subclasses Among Middle‐Aged Australians

  • Authors: Jingwen Zhang, Jennifer L. Perret, Dinh S. Bui, Sheikh M. Alif, Michael J. Abramson, Anne B. Chang, Hans Kromhout, Garun S. Hamilton, Paul S. Thomas, Bircan Erbas, et al.

  • Year: 2025

2. Chronic Bronchitis in Children and Adults: Definitions, Pathophysiology, Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Consequences

  • Authors: Jingwen Zhang, Danielle F. Wurzel, Jennifer L. Perret, Caroline J. Lodge, E. Haydn Walters, Shyamali C. Dharmage

  • Year: 2024

3. Association of Novel Adult Cough Subclasses With Clinical Characteristics and Lung Function Across Six Decades of Life in a Prospective, Community-Based Cohort in Australia: An Analysis of the Tasmanian Longitudinal Health Study (TAHS)

  • Authors: Jingwen Zhang, Caroline J. Lodge, E. Haydn Walters, Anne B. Chang, Dinh S. Bui, Adrian J. Lowe, Garun S. Hamilton, Paul S. Thomas, Chamara V. Senaratna, Alan L. James, et al.

  • Year: 2024

4. A Review of the Role of Pollen in COVID-19 Infection

  • Authors: Nur Sabrina Idrose, Jingwen Zhang, Caroline J. Lodge, Bircan Erbas, Jo A. Douglass, Dinh S. Bui, Shyamali C. Dharmage

  • Year: 2023

5. Risk Factors for Chronic Cough in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

  • Authors: Jingwen Zhang, Jennifer L. Perret, Anne B. Chang, Nur S. Idrose, Dinh S. Bui, Adrian J. Lowe, Michael J. Abramson, E. Haydn Walters, Caroline J. Lodge, Shyamali C. Dharmage

  • Year: 2022

6. Serum Cytokine Concentrations and Asthma Persistence to Middle Age

  • Authors: Jingwen Zhang, Eugene H. Walters, Mimi L. K. Tang, Adrian J. Lowe, Caroline J. Lodge, Dinh Bui, Rangi Kandane‐Rathnayake, Bircan Erbas, Garun S. Hamilton, Bruce R. Thompson, et al.

  • Year: 2020

Shayan Yousufzai | Medicine and Dentistry | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Shayan Yousufzai | Medicine and Dentistry | Young Scientist Award

General practitioner and Clinical Research Fellow from Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran

Dr. Shayan Yousufzai is a highly motivated physician and clinical researcher with a strong foundation in medical education, research, and academic writing. Having earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from Islamic Azad University of Medical Sciences in Shiraz, he has demonstrated a consistent commitment to integrating clinical excellence with evidence-based research. Dr. Yousufzai’s passion for scientific inquiry has led to an impressive portfolio of peer-reviewed publications and collaborations with both national and international researchers. His clinical exposure spans a range of specialties including pediatric, thoracic, vascular, and ENT surgery, enriching his multidisciplinary understanding of healthcare. Known for his professionalism, attention to detail, and collaborative spirit, he brings a unique blend of analytical thinking and practical medical skills to every project. Beyond medicine, Dr. Yousufzai is proficient in research tools, data analysis software, and academic writing platforms, enhancing his ability to contribute to high-quality scholarly outputs. His long-term vision centers on bridging the gap between clinical practice and research innovation, ultimately aiming to impact patient outcomes on a global scale. With a strong commitment to continuing education and scientific contribution, Dr. Yousufzai is emerging as a promising figure in the evolving landscape of clinical research and academic medicine.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Shayan Yousufzai pursued his medical education at the Islamic Azad University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz Branch, where he obtained his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. His academic journey was marked by distinction, leadership, and a strong inclination toward clinical research. During his medical training, he demonstrated exceptional academic performance while actively engaging in extracurricular and scholarly activities. His early exposure to complex medical cases during clinical rotations sparked a passion for surgery and scientific inquiry. He complemented his formal education with practical experiences in various hospitals, particularly in pediatric, thoracic, vascular, and ENT surgery. Recognizing the value of research in improving healthcare outcomes, Dr. Yousufzai sought out mentorship from senior clinicians and researchers, through which he gained expertise in data analysis, evidence-based practice, and academic writing. Beyond the classroom, he participated in workshops, training courses, and medical conferences that deepened his understanding of scientific methodology and global health issues. Additionally, he completed several certification courses that enhanced his clinical research capabilities, such as scientific writing, research ethics, and clinical trial design. His academic foundation has not only prepared him to navigate complex clinical environments but has also inspired a lifelong dedication to combining hands-on medical care with impactful research initiatives.

Professional Experience

Dr. Shayan Yousufzai has accumulated valuable professional experience through a combination of clinical practice and active participation in medical research. After earning his MD, he trained in several hospital settings where he handled patient care across a range of specialties, notably pediatric, thoracic, and vascular surgery. These immersive clinical experiences enabled him to develop strong diagnostic and procedural skills while working alongside seasoned professionals in high-pressure environments. Parallel to his clinical roles, Dr. Yousufzai embraced opportunities to contribute to research and academic writing. He collaborated with multidisciplinary teams on studies that spanned topics in general medicine, surgery, and public health. His contributions often included literature reviews, data interpretation, and manuscript development for submission to peer-reviewed journals. Notably, he played a key role in coordinating research projects that involved international collaboration, underscoring his communication and organizational strengths. His active involvement in conferences, both as an attendee and presenter, reflects his commitment to lifelong learning and knowledge dissemination. With a holistic view of medicine that encompasses both patient care and scientific advancement, Dr. Yousufzai’s professional experience positions him as a dynamic and capable contributor in the realms of clinical practice, research, and academic development.

Research Interests

Dr. Shayan Yousufzai’s research interests lie at the intersection of clinical medicine, public health, and translational research. He is particularly passionate about investigating the mechanisms of disease progression, evaluating treatment outcomes, and improving surgical practices through evidence-based methods. His research often focuses on multidisciplinary areas, including pediatrics, thoracic surgery, ENT disorders, and global health challenges. Dr. Yousufzai is also deeply interested in epidemiology, health policy, and the role of preventative care in reducing the burden of chronic disease. His involvement in diverse research initiatives demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing clinical protocols and contributing to medical knowledge that directly benefits patients. Additionally, he has an interest in exploring the ethical and practical dimensions of healthcare delivery in resource-limited settings, aiming to inform interventions that are both sustainable and equitable. Dr. Yousufzai continuously seeks opportunities to apply innovative methodologies such as meta-analyses, clinical trials, and systematic reviews to generate high-impact findings. With a keen eye for scientific rigor and a collaborative mindset, his research endeavors are grounded in the goal of bridging clinical gaps and fostering health equity on a global scale.

Research Skills

Dr. Shayan Yousufzai possesses a diverse and comprehensive set of research skills that enhance his contributions to both academic and clinical studies. He is proficient in designing research protocols, conducting systematic reviews, and synthesizing evidence using meta-analytical tools. His academic training and hands-on experience have equipped him with strong capabilities in literature search strategies, critical appraisal, and hypothesis formulation. Dr. Yousufzai is well-versed in using software such as EndNote, Mendeley, and Zotero for reference management, and he has practical knowledge of SPSS and Excel for statistical analysis. He is skilled in data collection, survey design, and manuscript preparation, with multiple publications in peer-reviewed journals to his name. Moreover, his ability to collaborate across disciplines and manage research timelines makes him a valuable team member on complex projects. His familiarity with ethical research practices and regulatory requirements further adds to his credibility as a reliable researcher. In addition to his technical skills, Dr. Yousufzai excels in scientific writing and peer-review processes, allowing him to communicate complex findings with clarity and precision. His combined clinical insight and research acumen enable him to ask relevant questions and design studies that are both impactful and clinically applicable.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his academic and professional journey, Dr. Shayan Yousufzai has been recognized for his outstanding performance and dedication to medical research and clinical excellence. During his time at Islamic Azad University, he consistently ranked among the top students in his cohort, earning accolades for both academic and extracurricular achievements. His passion for research and scholarly writing has resulted in multiple publications in peer-reviewed international journals, some of which have gained recognition in academic circles. He has been acknowledged by peers and mentors alike for his contributions to collaborative projects, especially those involving multidisciplinary and cross-institutional teams. Additionally, Dr. Yousufzai has received certificates of excellence for his participation in research workshops, online medical training programs, and scientific writing courses. He has been invited to present his findings at several academic conferences, where his work was well-received and praised for its relevance and clarity. His ability to balance clinical responsibilities with academic research has earned him a reputation as a driven and dependable medical professional. These honors reflect his ongoing commitment to contributing meaningfully to the field of medicine, both in clinical practice and in the scientific community.

Conclusion

Dr. Shayan Yousufzai stands out as a promising figure in modern medicine, blending clinical expertise with a deep passion for scientific research. His academic background, enriched by hands-on clinical experience and extensive involvement in research projects, positions him to contribute meaningfully to both patient care and academic advancement. With a clear focus on evidence-based practice and a global health perspective, he exemplifies the qualities of a well-rounded physician-researcher. His proficiency in medical writing, data analysis, and collaboration makes him an asset in any academic or clinical setting. Moreover, his dedication to ethical practices and health equity underscores a commitment to impactful and compassionate medicine. As he continues to expand his research portfolio and clinical competencies, Dr. Yousufzai remains driven by a mission to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes through innovation and inquiry. Whether at the bedside or in the lab, his holistic approach to medicine ensures that he is not only a skilled practitioner but also a thought leader shaping the future of healthcare. His journey reflects a continuous pursuit of excellence, and his contributions are set to leave a lasting mark on the global medical and scientific community.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: First time use of trans-anal endorectal pull through (Soave procedure) for management of recurrent rectal mucosal prolapse in children not responding to the conventional sclerotherapy interventions: A case series
    Authors: A. Tadayon, H. Hosseini, O. Azh, Sh. Yousufzai, A. Rahmanian, M. Pourkhosravani
    Year: 2025

  2. Title: Genetic Insights Into Hyaline Fibromatosis Syndrome: A Case Report of an ANTXR2 Mutation Featuring a Rare Variant c.697+1G>A
    Authors: Shabnam Hajiani Ghotbabadi, Reza Shiari, Shayan Yousufzai, Simin Sharifi
    Year: 2025

  3. Title: Unveiling the uncommon: Cholesterol granuloma in the nasopharynx of a young patient
    Authors: Amir Soltaniesmaeili, Alireza Yousefi, Shayan Yousufzai, Sajjad Soltani, Zhale Mardani
    Year: 2025

  4. Title: Establishing Reliability and Validity of the Persian Pediatric Bowel Management Scoring Tool for Postoperative Care in Hirschprung’s Disease
    Authors: Omidreza Azh, Shayan Yousufzai, Hossein Hosseini, Mehdi Forooghi, Sahar Ghahramani, Reihane Pourmosavian, Sajede Radmard, Bisma Zulfiqar, Ali Ghorbanpour, Mostafa Pourkhosravani et al.
    Year: 2025

  5. Title: Adenoid cystic carcinoma of the tongue: A case study highlighting surgical management of an exceptionally rare entity
    Authors: Bijan Khademi, Sajjad Soltani, Shayan Yousufzai, Alireza Yousefi, Mohammad Ehsan Golshannia, Zhale Mardani
    Year: 2025

  6. Title: Lentigo maligna melanoma of the face: Clinical insights from a case of recurrence following surgical excision
    Authors: Seyed Basir Hashemi, Sajjad Soltani, Shayan Yousufzai, Negar Fatehi, Alireza Yousefi
    Year: 2025

  7. Title: Management of nasopharyngeal stenosis post-tonsillectomy using the Madame Butterfly technique: A case report with novel approach
    Authors: Amir Soltaniesmaeili, Fateme Farhadipour, Shayan Yousufzai, Hossein Hosseini, Saeed Farjam, Alireza Yousefi
    Year: 2025

  8. Title: Ocular invasion in sinonasal malignant melanoma: A case report and review of literature
    Authors: Bijan Khademi, Sajjad Soltani, Alireza Yousefi, Pouya Heidari, Zhale Mardani, Shayan Yousufzai
    Year: 2025

  9. Title: Cystic lymphangioma of the head and tail of the pancreas in a middle-aged Iranian woman: A case report
    Authors: Bizhan Ziaian, Ardalan Golbahar-Haghighi, Farzad Dalfardi, Shayan Yousufzai, Ali Sina Aloudal
    Year: 2024

  10. Title: A giant trichobezoar in a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: A case report
    Authors: M. Forooghi, R. Shahrokhi, Sh. Yousufzai
    Year: 2024