Heba Jalloun | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Heba Jalloun | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

King Fahd Armed Forces Hospital from Saudi Arabia

Dr. Heba Essam Jalloun is a highly accomplished consultant in colorectal, minimally invasive, and robotic surgery, currently based at King Fahd Armed Forces Hospital (KFAFH) in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. With over two decades of extensive clinical, academic, and research experience, Dr. Jalloun has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the advancement of surgical practice, training, and innovation in her field. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and Surgery from King Abdul-Aziz University in 2000, followed by the Saudi Specialty Certificate in General Surgery in 2008. Her international training includes two prestigious fellowships in South Korea focusing on minimally invasive, laparoscopic, robotic, oncology, and pelvic floor surgeries. Beyond her clinical responsibilities, she actively participates in training future surgeons as the Director of the General Surgery Saudi Board Residency Program at KFAFH. Dr. Jalloun is widely recognized for her contributions as a speaker at national and international conferences, as well as her active participation in surgical societies across Saudi Arabia, Europe, and Asia. Her work during the COVID-19 pandemic as a frontliner and her extensive involvement in global research collaborations further emphasize her dedication to both patient care and the academic community.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Heba Jalloun’s educational foundation is rooted in excellence and international exposure. She began her medical education at King Abdul-Aziz University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and General Surgery (MBChB) between 1994 and 2000. After passing the Saudi License Exam in 2000, she pursued her residency in General Surgery through the Saudi Board program, completing her Saudi Specialty Certificate in General Surgery (SSC-SURG) in 2008. Her postgraduate training was distinguished by a strong focus on advanced surgical techniques, particularly in minimally invasive procedures. She furthered her expertise through two consecutive fellowships in South Korea: one in Minimal Invasive Surgery, Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgery for Colorectal Diseases (2015–2016), and the second in Oncology, Proctology, and Pelvic Floor Surgery (2017). These fellowships were undertaken at the Catholic University of Korea, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, providing her with global perspectives and high-level surgical training. Dr. Jalloun also acquired numerous certifications including ATLS instructor, Basic Surgical Skills instructor, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, and the Train of Trainer (TOT) program. Her dedication to continuous professional development is further evident through her involvement in structured surgical courses and certifications that support both clinical excellence and teaching proficiency.

Professional Experience

Dr. Heba Jalloun’s professional career spans over two decades of dedicated service, with a significant focus on general, colorectal, and robotic surgery. She began her journey in clinical practice as a resident in family medicine from 2001 to 2003, then transitioned into general surgery residency at Northwest Armed Forces Hospital and King Abdulaziz & Oncology Center from 2003 to 2008. After receiving her board certification, she was appointed as a Registrar and later an Assistant Consultant in General Surgery at KFAFH. Her expertise and leadership were recognized as she advanced to the roles of General Surgery Consultant in 2014 and Colorectal, Minimally Invasive, and Robotic Surgery Consultant in 2018. In 2022, she was appointed Director of the Saudi Board General Surgery Residency Program at KFAFH. Alongside clinical duties, Dr. Jalloun has led and organized numerous simulation-based training courses, contributed significantly to resident education, and participated in advanced surgical workshops both nationally and internationally. Her role during the COVID-19 pandemic as a frontliner and key investigator in global surgical research further highlights her dynamic and compassionate leadership. She is also an active member of surgical societies in Saudi Arabia and abroad, bridging international best practices with local healthcare advancements.

Research Interests

Dr. Heba Jalloun’s research interests are aligned closely with her clinical expertise in colorectal surgery, minimally invasive techniques, and oncology. She is deeply engaged in advancing surgical methodologies through evidence-based studies and is particularly focused on Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols, outcomes of laparoscopic procedures, and the management of colorectal diseases. Her international collaborations reflect her commitment to global health challenges, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, where she co-authored several high-impact publications addressing surgical delays, postoperative complications, and vaccine safety related to surgical outcomes. Additionally, she is interested in surgical education, clinical audits, and quality improvement projects—particularly those improving patient discharge efficiency and postoperative recovery. Dr. Jalloun has also explored surgical techniques in emergency abdominal procedures and rare case reports, including drug addiction among high school students. Her current and ongoing research includes hospital-based projects, international multicenter cohort studies, and case series publications. Through this multifaceted research approach, Dr. Jalloun aims to bridge gaps between clinical practice and academic inquiry, ultimately contributing to improved patient safety, surgical precision, and innovation in healthcare systems across the region and globally.

Research Skills

Dr. Heba Jalloun possesses a strong portfolio of research skills encompassing clinical study design, data collection, analysis, publication, and academic presentations. She has served as a principal investigator for several international multicenter studies focused on elective cancer surgery, acute cholecystitis, and surgical outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her contributions demonstrate proficiency in conducting prospective cohort studies, managing collaborative global datasets, and interpreting clinical implications across diverse healthcare settings. Additionally, Dr. Jalloun is skilled in writing and reviewing scientific manuscripts, poster presentations, and case reports. Her research on ERAS protocols, laparoscopic surgery outcomes, and oncologic safety has been published in respected international journals. She actively contributes to hospital-based quality improvement projects and is proficient in coordinating multidisciplinary research teams. Dr. Jalloun’s training experience also equips her with excellent skills in presenting at international symposiums, conducting workshops, and teaching evidence-based surgical practices. Her ability to integrate research into clinical practice makes her an asset to both academic and medical institutions. Furthermore, her dedication to mentorship and supervision of trainees in research-related tasks reinforces her role as a leader in academic medicine and clinical education.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Heba Jalloun has received multiple awards and honors in recognition of her clinical excellence, teaching capabilities, and service to the healthcare community. She was honored with the Best Instructor and Teacher award at King Fahd Armed Forces Hospital (KFAFH) for the academic year 2019–2020, reflecting her impactful contributions to surgical education. Earlier in her career, she was recognized as the Best Senior Registrar in 2010–2011, showcasing her exceptional performance during residency. Her role as an instructor in ATLS and Basic Surgical Skills courses since 2005 further highlights her longstanding commitment to surgical training. Dr. Jalloun received certificates of appreciation for her contributions to patient safety and experience in both 2021 and 2023, underlining her dedication to improving healthcare quality. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she was acknowledged for her invaluable service as a frontliner and key investigator in international research collaborations. Additionally, she has been commended for her participation as a speaker in numerous national and international symposiums. These accolades collectively reflect her multifaceted contributions as a surgeon, educator, researcher, and leader committed to advancing the field of surgery and patient care at both national and global levels.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Heba Essam Jalloun exemplifies the qualities of a distinguished surgeon, educator, and researcher, making her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her career demonstrates an exceptional balance between clinical practice, academic leadership, and impactful research contributions. Through her international training in advanced surgical techniques and ongoing participation in global collaborative studies, she has significantly enriched both patient outcomes and medical knowledge. Her work during the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside her numerous publications and hospital projects, highlights her commitment to addressing real-world challenges with scientific rigor. Dr. Jalloun’s leadership in surgical education, evident from her role as Director of the Saudi Board Residency Program, further establishes her as a mentor and role model for future generations of surgeons. With multiple awards recognizing her teaching, service, and research, she has shown unwavering dedication to excellence in healthcare. While her work is already commendable, expanding her independent research leadership and engaging in broader interdisciplinary projects could further enhance her impact. Overall, Dr. Jalloun’s credentials and achievements reflect not only her expertise but also her vision for continuous innovation and improvement in surgery and medical education. She is a highly deserving candidate for this prestigious recognition.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Influence of the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Protocol on Postoperative Inflammation and Short-Term Postoperative Surgical Outcomes After Colorectal Cancer Surgery

  • Authors: Jalloun Heba Essam (H.E.), Lee In Kyu (I.K.), Kim Min-ki (M.), Lee Yoon-suk (Y.), Jeon Hae-myung (H.)

  • Year: 2020

  • Citations: 19

Seyed Hassan Tonekaboni | Medicine and Dentistry | Outstanding Contribution Award

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Dr. Seyed Hassan Tonekaboni | Medicine and Dentistry | Outstanding Contribution Award

Clinical Research Fellow from Shahid Beheshti Medical University, Iran

Dr. Seyed Hassan Tonekaboni is a distinguished Pediatric Neurologist and academic leader with over three decades of experience in clinical care, research, and medical education. He currently serves as a Clinical Research Fellow at the Autism Research Centre, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital in Toronto, Canada, under the supervision of Dr. Evdokia Anagnostou. Prior to this, he held the prestigious position of Full Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at Shahid Beheshti Medical University (SBMU) in Tehran, Iran, and was a senior staff pediatric neurologist at Mofid Children’s Hospital. His expertise lies in pediatric neurology, neurogenetics, epilepsy, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Dr. Tonekaboni has been instrumental in shaping child neurology services in Iran and has led numerous research initiatives addressing the diagnosis, treatment, and management of neurological conditions in children. His contributions extend to education, where he played key roles in postgraduate training and curriculum development. A respected voice in his field, he has served on national committees, editorial boards, and research centers, contributing significantly to pediatric neurology research in Iran and internationally. With a strong foundation in clinical practice and a growing international research portfolio, Dr. Tonekaboni is recognized for his enduring impact on child health and neurodevelopmental care.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Seyed Hassan Tonekaboni’s educational journey is both extensive and highly specialized, reflecting his deep commitment to pediatric neurology and medical genetics. He obtained his medical degree (MD) from Shahid Beheshti Medical University (SBMU), Tehran, in 1990. Following his general pediatric residency at the same institution, he pursued a subspecialty in Pediatric Neurology from 1996 to 1998, earning his national board certification in this field. To further enhance his expertise, Dr. Tonekaboni undertook a prestigious fellowship in Medical Genetics (AFSA: Attestation de Formation Spécialisée Approfondie) at Pierre and Marie Curie University and Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital in Paris, France, from 2003 to 2004. His postgraduate training includes clinical research fellowships and observerships in Canada, including at the SickKids Hospital and the Autism Research Centre at Holland Bloorview in Toronto. These programs focused on neurogenetics, neuromuscular disorders, and autism spectrum conditions, broadening his clinical and research skills in international settings. His comprehensive educational background—spanning Iran, France, and Canada—has allowed him to integrate global best practices with regional expertise. This diverse academic foundation has greatly informed his approach to complex pediatric neurological disorders and has supported his leadership in clinical research and academic development in both national and international contexts.

Professional Experience

Dr. Seyed Hassan Tonekaboni has amassed a wealth of professional experience across clinical, academic, and research domains in pediatric neurology. His early career began at Mofid Children’s Hospital, where he served as a Staff Pediatrician and Clinician Educator from 1993 onward. Over the decades, he progressively held key academic roles at Shahid Beheshti Medical University (SBMU), becoming Assistant Professor in 2004, Associate Professor in 2005, and ultimately Full Professor by 2012. In these roles, he taught medical students and trained residents while managing pediatric neurology inpatient and outpatient services. From 2005 to 2017, he led the Medical Research Development Centre at Mofid Hospital, demonstrating his leadership in advancing research infrastructure. Dr. Tonekaboni has also held national positions, such as Vice Dean of Postgraduate Medical Education at SBMU, Vice President of the Iranian Neurogenetic Society, and a member of multiple Ministry of Health evaluation boards. His international engagement includes a research fellowship at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital in Canada, where he focuses on autism and neurodevelopmental research. His career reflects a deep commitment to integrating clinical excellence with research and policy development, making him a central figure in pediatric neurology in Iran and an emerging contributor in global pediatric neuroscience.

Research Interests

Dr. Seyed Hassan Tonekaboni’s research interests are grounded in pediatric neurology, with a particular emphasis on epilepsy, neurogenetic disorders, neurodevelopmental disabilities, and clinical pharmacology. His scholarly work spans several key domains, including the treatment and management of refractory epilepsy in children, neurocognitive outcomes of pharmacologic interventions, and the impact of dietary therapies like the ketogenic and Atkins diets on seizure control. Recently, his interests have expanded into neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), especially in the context of his ongoing clinical research fellowship in Canada. Dr. Tonekaboni is deeply invested in translational research that bridges clinical observations with practical therapeutic strategies. His studies often explore the efficacy and safety of antiepileptic drugs, diagnostic tools for genetic neurological conditions, and family-centered care approaches. He also investigates sociocultural factors influencing care delivery, such as maternal knowledge and attitudes toward childhood epilepsy. Through his involvement with national research centers and international academic institutions, Dr. Tonekaboni aims to contribute to evidence-based pediatric neurology practices. His multidisciplinary approach is informed by clinical observation, genetic science, and public health principles, making his work both scientifically valuable and socially relevant in improving outcomes for children with neurological disorders.

Research Skills

Dr. Tonekaboni possesses a comprehensive set of research skills that support his multidisciplinary approach to pediatric neurology. His clinical expertise enables him to design and conduct robust observational and interventional studies, particularly in epilepsy and neurodevelopmental disorders. He is well-versed in clinical trial design, including randomized controlled trials, as demonstrated in his investigations on the use of levetiracetam, buccal midazolam, and ketogenic diets for seizure control. His training in medical genetics has equipped him with skills in genetic diagnostics and the interpretation of genomic data, especially within the context of pediatric neurogenetic syndromes. Additionally, his experience at the Autism Research Centre and SickKids Hospital in Canada has expanded his competence in neurodevelopmental assessments and autism-related behavioral research. Dr. Tonekaboni is proficient in grant writing and has successfully secured research funding for multiple clinical studies. He also demonstrates strong academic writing and publication skills, contributing to peer-reviewed journals and serving on editorial boards. His leadership in research development at Mofid Children’s Hospital involved mentoring junior researchers and enhancing institutional research capacity. His methodological skills, combined with a collaborative mindset and clinical insight, make him adept at translating research findings into improved patient care strategies in pediatric neurology.

Awards and Honors

Over the course of his career, Dr. Seyed Hassan Tonekaboni has received numerous recognitions for his academic, clinical, and research achievements. Although specific named awards are not extensively listed, his honors are reflected in the prestigious positions he has held and the trust placed in him by national and institutional bodies. He has been appointed to critical national committees in Iran, including the Iranian National Board of Pediatric Neurology, the National Council of Neurology, and the Medical Graduate Evaluation Committee under the Ministry of Health. His election as Vice Dean of Postgraduate Medical Education and Head of the Research Development Centre at SBMU indicates high institutional recognition. Moreover, his selection as a fellow at internationally respected institutions—such as the Autism Research Centre in Canada and Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital in France—reflects global recognition of his expertise and potential. He has also served as Chief Editor and Editorial Board Member for various scientific journals, such as the Iranian Journal of Child Neurology, confirming his scholarly influence. These appointments and invitations to contribute to academia, clinical service, and research infrastructure development are strong indicators of his outstanding contributions to pediatric neurology both nationally and internationally.

Conclusion

Dr. Seyed Hassan Tonekaboni is an accomplished pediatric neurologist and academic whose impact spans decades of clinical innovation, research leadership, and educational mentorship. His career reflects a seamless integration of clinical excellence and scholarly productivity, particularly in pediatric epilepsy, neurogenetics, and neurodevelopmental disorders. With a robust academic foundation and international collaborations in France and Canada, he has developed a global perspective on pediatric neurological care. Dr. Tonekaboni’s leadership roles in medical education, research administration, and national healthcare policy underscore his broad influence and commitment to advancing child health services in Iran and beyond. While his research visibility could be further amplified through increased high-impact international publications and global grant acquisition, his current portfolio demonstrates a substantial and meaningful contribution to medical science. His multidisciplinary approach, spanning clinical trials, genetics, education, and autism research, reflects his adaptability and dedication to addressing evolving challenges in pediatric neurology. In conclusion, Dr. Tonekaboni exemplifies the qualities of a seasoned clinician-scientist whose work continues to shape both academic scholarship and patient care. He is a strong candidate for recognition through awards that honor outstanding contributions to medical research and child neurological health.

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Genetics of intellectual disability in consanguineous families
    Authors: H. Hu, K. Kahrizi, L. Musante, Z. Fattahi, R. Herwig, M. Hosseini, C. Oppitz, …
    Journal: Molecular Psychiatry, 24(7), 1027–1039
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 224

  • Title: Effect of inbreeding on intellectual disability revisited by trio sequencing
    Authors: K. Kahrizi, H. Hu, M. Hosseini, V.M. Kalscheuer, Z. Fattahi, M. Beheshtian, …
    Journal: Clinical Genetics, 95(1), 151–159
    Year: 2019
    Citations: 78

  • Title: Spastic paraplegia with thin corpus callosum: description of 20 new families, refinement of the SPG11 locus, candidate gene analysis and evidence of genetic heterogeneity
    Journal: Neurogenetics, 7(3), 149–156
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 64

  • Title: GM2-Gangliosidosis (Sandhoff and Tay Sachs disease): diagnosis and neuroimaging findings (an Iranian pediatric case series)
    Authors: P. Karimzadeh, N. Jafari, H.N. Biglari, S.J. Dari, F.A. Abadi, M.R. Alaee, …
    Journal: Iranian Journal of Child Neurology, 8(3), 55
    Year: 2014
    Citations: 61

  • Title: Efficacy of the Atkins diet as therapy for intractable epilepsy in children
    Authors: S.H. Tonekaboni, P. Mostaghimi, P. Mirmiran, A. Abbaskhanian, F.A. Gorji, …
    Journal: Archives of Iranian Medicine, 13(6), 492–497
    Year: 2010
    Citations: 60

  • Title: Ryanodine receptor type 3 (RYR3) as a novel gene associated with a myopathy with nemaline bodies
    Authors: Y. Nilipour, S. Nafissi, A.E. Tjust, G. Ravenscroft, H. Hossein Nejad Nedai, …
    Journal: European Journal of Neurology, 25(6), 841–847
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 50

  • Title: Neurocognitive effects of phenobarbital discontinuation in epileptic children
    Authors: S.H. Tonekaboni, N. Beyraghi, H.S. Tahbaz, S.A. Bahreynian, …
    Journal: Epilepsy & Behavior, 8(1), 145–148
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 48

  • Title: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices among mothers of children with epilepsy: a study in a teaching hospital
    Authors: A.A. Kolahi, M. Abbasi-Kangevari, P. Bakhshaei, F. Mahvelati-Shamsabadi, …
    Journal: Epilepsy & Behavior, 69, 147–152
    Year: 2017
    Citations: 47

  • Title: Diagnosis and treatment of late-onset Pompe disease in the Middle East and North Africa region: consensus recommendations from an expert group
    Authors: MENA Pompe Working Group, F. Al Jasmi, M. Al Jumah, F. Alqarni, …
    Journal: BMC Neurology, 15, 1–17
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 47

  • Title: Bone mineral density in ambulatory children with epilepsy
    Authors: O. Yaghini, S.H. Tonekaboni, S.M. Amir Shahkarami, F. Ahmad Abadi, …
    Journal: The Indian Journal of Pediatrics, 82, 225–229
    Year: 2015
    Citations: 40