Irenka Baldo Clemot | Neurology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Irenka Baldo Clemot | Neurology | Best Researcher Award

MRCVS, ECVN Resident from The Ralph Veterinary Referral Centre, United Kingdom

Dr. Irenka Baldo Clemot is a highly accomplished veterinary professional specializing in neurology, currently serving as a Neurology Resident at The Ralph Referral Centre in Buckinghamshire, UK. With over seven years of experience in both first opinion and specialist referral settings, she has honed her clinical expertise across a diverse array of disciplines, including neurology, orthopaedics, and emergency veterinary medicine. Dr. Clemot is known for her strong leadership in high-pressure environments and her compassionate approach to animal care. Her career path has led her through several prestigious internships and residencies, during which she developed advanced skills in diagnostics, surgery, and neurological assessments. A dedicated mentor and educator, she has guided veterinary students and junior professionals while actively contributing to internal case discussions and medical presentations. Dr. Clemot has also engaged in clinical research, focusing on canine neurological conditions, with published articles in respected journals such as Vet Surg and VetRecord CaseReports. Her active memberships in professional bodies like the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, British Veterinary Association, and European College of Veterinary Neurology further demonstrate her commitment to academic and professional excellence. Her trajectory exemplifies the qualities of a future leader in veterinary neurology and education.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Irenka Baldo Clemot pursued her veterinary degree at the University of Murcia, Spain, where she graduated in 2016 with a strong academic record and a passion for neurology. Throughout her education, she participated in multiple externships and internships that laid the foundation for her specialization in neurological and surgical disciplines. She completed student rotations at the University Veterinary Hospital of Murcia and trained as a student/assistant veterinary surgeon at institutions such as JC1 Clinic and Nexo Mescal in Spain. These hands-on clinical experiences complemented her formal education, providing her with early exposure to practical veterinary medicine in both hospital and field environments. Her post-graduate development includes a comprehensive series of specialized courses and workshops across Europe, focusing on neuroanatomy, neuropathology, diagnostic imaging, and emergency care. Highlights include advanced training through the ESVN-ECVN Symposiums and Brain Camps in Munich and Bologna, organized by the ACVIM. Dr. Clemot has also completed courses on computed tomography, ultrasonography, endocrinopathies, and neurosurgical interventions, often under the guidance of globally recognized experts. Her ongoing professional development reflects a lifelong commitment to learning, ensuring she remains updated on the latest research and clinical advancements in veterinary neurology and internal medicine.

Professional Experience

Dr. Clemot’s professional journey spans across the UK and Spain, beginning with her role as a veterinary surgeon in Spanish clinics and evolving into advanced residency roles in the UK. She began her clinical career in Spain at Clinivet and El Gato Azul, later moving to the UK where she joined Medivet in Oxfordshire as a veterinary surgeon from 2017 to 2019. She then expanded her expertise at Hamilton Specialist Referrals, assisting in orthopaedic and neurology internships. She further enhanced her clinical capabilities through a rotating internship and emergency veterinary role at Willows Veterinary Centre in Birmingham from 2021 to 2022. Following this, she undertook a neurology internship and later a residency at The Ralph Referral Centre in Buckinghamshire. Her current residency role involves managing complex neurological cases, performing neurology consultations, and assisting in advanced spinal and brain surgeries. She also takes responsibility for training veterinary students and presenting clinical cases to peers. Dr. Clemot is highly adept in emergency care, advanced diagnostics, neurosurgical procedures, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Her experience reflects a strong trajectory of growth, leadership, and dedication to both clinical excellence and veterinary education, making her a valuable asset in any specialist veterinary environment.

Research Interest

Dr. Irenka Baldo Clemot’s research interests lie primarily in the field of canine neurology, with a focus on spinal disorders, neuroimaging, and emergency neurological care. Her clinical experiences have inspired a deep interest in the diagnosis and surgical treatment of complex neurological diseases, such as degenerative lumbosacral stenosis, syringomyelia, and vascular encephalopathies. Dr. Clemot is particularly drawn to improving diagnostic imaging techniques, notably the application of dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for enhanced presurgical assessments. She is also interested in the clinical progression and surgical outcomes of rare and under-reported neurological conditions in small animals. In addition to clinical neurology, she has a strong inclination toward advancing evidence-based emergency management strategies for acute neurological presentations, including seizure disorders and traumatic brain injuries. Her participation in multiple European symposiums and her collaboration with senior neurologists in both clinical and research settings have helped shape a comprehensive research vision that combines hands-on veterinary practice with scholarly inquiry. Dr. Clemot aims to contribute to the growing body of veterinary neurological knowledge, especially in improving clinical protocols, treatment algorithms, and post-surgical recovery outcomes through data-driven studies and collaborative clinical research.

Research Skills

Dr. Clemot possesses a robust set of research skills that complement her clinical practice. She is proficient in conducting case-based research, preparing scientific manuscripts, and delivering oral and poster presentations at reputable symposiums such as the BVNS Symposium and the ESVN-ECVN Congress. Her skill in designing and interpreting advanced diagnostic imaging—particularly MRI—has been critical in her published research on dynamic spinal assessment techniques. Dr. Clemot is trained in scientific writing, literature review, and data interpretation, which is reflected in her co-authored articles published in VetRecord CaseReports and Veterinary Surgery (Vet Surg). She is also experienced in using evidence-based methodologies to approach clinical questions, formulating hypotheses, and presenting results in a professional setting. Her communication skills enable her to translate complex findings into actionable insights, especially during clinical rounds and academic sessions. She has mentored peers on research paper preparation and has helped organize in-house training sessions. Additionally, she is competent in statistical analysis, abstract submission processes, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. These skills, combined with her academic curiosity, position her to expand her research portfolio and contribute meaningfully to the advancement of veterinary neurological science.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Irenka Baldo Clemot has been widely recognized for her contributions to veterinary neurology, both clinically and academically. She has received numerous invitations to present her research at major veterinary congresses, including flash and oral presentations at the BVNS Symposium (2022 & 2025) and the ESVN-ECVN Symposium. Her case study on post-traumatic syringomyelia was selected for presentation and is under peer-review, indicating the quality and relevance of her research work. She also delivered impactful presentations on atlanto-axial instability, vascular encephalopathies, and epileptic seizure management, which have earned her acclaim within professional circles. In addition to presenting, Dr. Clemot has been recognized for her mentorship contributions, guiding veterinary students and interns across multiple institutions. She is a registered Member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and affiliated with professional societies including the British Veterinary Association (BVA), British Veterinary Neurology Society (BVNS), and European Society and College of Veterinary Neurology (ESVN & ECVN). Her continuous professional development through elite training programs and symposiums further underlines her commitment to excellence and her growing recognition as a future leader in veterinary neuroscience.

Conclusion

Dr. Irenka Baldo Clemot is a dedicated and dynamic veterinary neurologist whose career trajectory reflects an exceptional blend of clinical expertise, academic engagement, and compassionate patient care. With a solid foundation in veterinary education and extensive practical experience, she is actively contributing to the evolution of neurological diagnostics and surgical techniques in small animal care. Her publications, leadership in clinical training, and ability to translate complex neurological findings into clinical solutions illustrate her multidisciplinary impact. As a committed member of the international veterinary neurology community, Dr. Clemot embodies the qualities of a future academic leader, researcher, and innovator. Her passion for continuous learning, research, and teaching is evident in her ongoing pursuit of excellence through symposiums, advanced training, and collaborative projects. Her work not only enhances clinical standards but also builds a bridge between veterinary science and practical innovation. Dr. Clemot’s future goals include expanding her research influence globally, leading educational initiatives, and contributing to improved diagnostic protocols and patient care strategies. She stands as an inspiring example of how clinical practice and scholarly inquiry can harmonize to create meaningful advancements in the field of veterinary medicine.

 

Zhongqing Sun | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zhongqing Sun | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Researcher at Xijing Hospital, China

Dr. Zhongqing Sun is an accomplished assistant researcher specializing in neurobiology, with a strong focus on neural regeneration and neuroprotection. His academic journey has led him through prestigious institutions such as The University of Hong Kong and Jinan University, contributing significantly to research on neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s, epilepsy, and stroke. As a leader in translational neuroscience, he integrates basic research with clinical applications, employing innovative techniques to explore potential therapies. Dr. Sun’s work combines cutting-edge molecular biology tools, including RNA-seq, live cell imaging, and stem cell therapies, to investigate new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases. His contributions extend through various high-impact publications and collaborative projects. He continues to drive forward research initiatives with the goal of improving the quality of life for patients with neurological conditions.

Professional Profile

Education:

Dr. Zhongqing Sun holds a Ph.D. in Orthopaedics and Traumatology from The University of Hong Kong, where his research focused on neural regeneration and repair. He completed his Master’s degree in Pharmacology at Jinan University, specializing in the regenerative aspects of the central nervous system, and his Bachelor’s degree in Preventive Medicine from Henan University of Chinese Medicine. This extensive educational background laid a solid foundation for his research in the field of neurology and regenerative medicine, particularly in the context of neurological diseases.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Sun’s professional experience spans multiple prestigious institutions. He is currently an Assistant Researcher at Xijing Hospital, The Fourth Military Medical University, where he leads translational research on common neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and stroke. Prior to this, he worked as a research assistant at The University of Hong Kong, focusing on neurodegenerative diseases and eye health, specifically Alzheimer’s and glaucoma. Additionally, he gained valuable experience at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, where he investigated pain mechanisms and the role of microglia in neuropathic pain. He has also contributed to research in electrophysiological recording at the Shanghai Institute of Neuroscience.

Research Interests:

Dr. Sun’s primary research interests lie in the neural regeneration and neuroprotection of the central nervous system. His focus includes developing therapeutic strategies for common neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, and epilepsy. He explores a variety of methodologies, including stem cell therapy, electrical stimulation, neuroinflammatory modulation, and the use of traditional Chinese medicine like Goji berries. His work aims to bridge basic neuroscience with clinical applications, particularly in the development of new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.

Research Skills:

Dr. Sun is proficient in a wide range of advanced research techniques used to study the central nervous system and neurological diseases. His skills include primary cell culture, cell line maintenance, transgenic animal models, behavioral analysis, electrophysiology, immunostaining, and live cell imaging. He is also experienced in high-throughput molecular techniques such as RNA-seq, single-cell sequencing, Western blotting, and PCR. These technical competencies enable him to conduct in-depth studies on neuroprotection and regeneration, laying the groundwork for novel therapeutic approaches to neurological disorders.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Zhongqing Sun has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to the field of neuroscience. His work on neural regeneration has earned him numerous accolades, including research grants and awards for innovation. He has received funding from prestigious institutions, such as The University of Hong Kong, and has contributed to several high-profile research projects in the field. His publications in top-tier journals like Biomaterials and Neural Regen Res further attest to his scientific leadership and the impact of his research. Additionally, he serves as a peer reviewer for journals, further validating his expertise and recognition within the scientific community.

Conclusion:

Zhongqing Sun has demonstrated exceptional promise and significant contributions to neuroscience, particularly in neurodegenerative diseases. His interdisciplinary approach to neural regeneration and neuroprotection, combined with his leadership in high-impact research projects, positions him as a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. To strengthen his profile, expanding the clinical and public outreach of his research could further cement his influence in the field. Given his combination of innovative research, leadership, and academic rigor, he is a deserving candidate for the award.

Publication Top Notes:

  1. Targeting Microglia in Alzheimer’s Disease: Pathogenesis and Potential Therapeutic Strategies
    • Authors: Sun, Z., Zhang, X., So, K.-F., Jiang, W., Chiu, K.
    • Year: 2024
    • JournalBiomolecules
    • Volume: 14
    • Issue: 7
    • Article Number: 833
    • Citations: 0
  2. Retinal safety and toxicity study of artesunate in vitro and in vivo
    • Authors: Lu, B.-W., Liang, Y.-X., Liu, J.-F., So, K.-F., Chiu, K.
    • Year: 2023
    • JournalAdvances in Ophthalmology Practice and Research
    • Volume: 3
    • Issue: 2
    • Pages: 47–54
    • Citations: 0
  3. Effects of Goji with different origins or different extraction methods on primary mixed glial cells (不同产地或提取工艺枸杞对原代胶质细胞抗氧化及抗炎作用的影响)
    • Authors: Zheng, C., Zhu, R., Sun, Z., So, K.-F., Chiu, K.
    • Year: 2022
    • JournalKexue Tongbao/Chinese Science Bulletin
    • Volume: 67
    • Issue: 4-5
    • Pages: 376–384
    • Citations: 2
  4. Lycium barbarum extract promotes M2 polarization and reduces oligomeric amyloid-β-induced inflammatory reactions in microglial cells
    • Authors: Sun, Z.-Q., Liu, J.-F., Luo, W., Hu, Y., Chiu, K.
    • Year: 2022
    • JournalNeural Regeneration Research
    • Volume: 17
    • Issue: 1
    • Pages: 203–209
    • Citations: 14
  5. Electrical stimulation at nanoscale topography boosts neural stem cell neurogenesis through the enhancement of autophagy signaling
    • Authors: He, L., Sun, Z., Li, J., Zhou, Q., Chiu, K.
    • Year: 2021
    • JournalBiomaterials
    • Volume: 268
    • Article Number: 120585
    • Citations: 45
  6. Electrical stimulation affects neural stem cell fate and function in vitro
    • Authors: Zhu, R., Sun, Z., Li, C., Chiu, K., He, L.
    • Year: 2019
    • JournalExperimental Neurology
    • Volume: 319
    • Article Number: 112963
    • Citations: 135