Dr. Mrinalini Balki is a distinguished anesthesiologist and researcher specializing in obstetric anesthesia. With over two decades of experience in clinical practice and academia, she has significantly contributed to advancing maternal healthcare. She is a professor at the University of Toronto and a Senior Clinician Scientist at the Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute. Dr. Balki’s research focuses on optimizing anesthetic techniques for labor and delivery, ensuring safer outcomes for mothers and newborns. Her extensive publication record and numerous national and international awards underscore her influence in the field. Throughout her career, she has combined clinical expertise with pioneering research, addressing critical challenges in anesthesia and obstetric care. She has also played a pivotal role in mentoring future anesthesiologists and researchers, fostering innovation and excellence. Recognized globally, her work has shaped the understanding of myometrial contractility, uterotonic agents, and anesthetic safety in obstetric patients. Her ongoing commitment to high-impact research, education, and clinical excellence positions her as a leading figure in her field. Dr. Balki’s dedication to improving patient safety, combined with her impressive research credentials, makes her a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile

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Education

Dr. Balki has an extensive academic background in medicine and anesthesiology. She earned her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree from Nagpur University, India, in 1994. She subsequently completed her Doctor of Medicine (MD) in Anesthesiology from Nagpur University in 1997, achieving specialist certification from the Maharashtra Medical Council. To further refine her expertise, she pursued multiple fellowships at the University of Toronto. From 2001 to 2004, she completed clinical and research fellowships in anesthesia, neuroanesthesia, and obstetric anesthesia at Toronto’s leading hospitals, including Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto Western Hospital, and St. Michael’s Hospital. In addition to these achievements, Dr. Balki has obtained several professional certifications, including the Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC) in 2002 and certification in Neonatal Resuscitation in 2003. She has also successfully cleared the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Step 1 & 2. Her continuous commitment to learning and updating her medical skills is further demonstrated by her Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certification in 2025. Dr. Balki’s extensive education, combined with her postgraduate research training, has laid the foundation for her successful career in anesthesiology and research.

Professional Experience

Dr. Balki has an impressive professional background, spanning both clinical and academic roles. Since 2004, she has been an active staff member in the Department of Anesthesia at Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, where she provides expert anesthetic care, particularly in obstetric and perioperative anesthesia. She also holds clinical appointments at the Kensington Eye Institute and Women’s College Hospital. Academically, she has served at the University of Toronto for over two decades, progressing from Assistant Professor in 2004 to full Professor in 2021. She is a faculty member in the departments of Anesthesia, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Physiology, reflecting her interdisciplinary expertise. Dr. Balki has also contributed to research as a Senior Clinician Scientist at the Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute since 2017. Her prior experience includes clinical appointments at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and University Health Network, further broadening her expertise. Internationally, she worked as a Staff Anesthesiologist in India before relocating to Canada. Her career reflects a strong combination of clinical excellence, academic leadership, and research innovation, making her a respected authority in the field of anesthesiology.

Research Interests

Dr. Balki’s primary research interest lies in obstetric anesthesia, particularly optimizing uterotonic drug administration and improving maternal outcomes. She has conducted extensive research on myometrial contractility, focusing on how various uterotonic agents interact with oxytocin to enhance or inhibit contractions during labor and postpartum hemorrhage treatment. Her work has significant implications for developing safer and more effective anesthesia protocols in obstetric care. Additionally, she is interested in maternal hemodynamics, pain management techniques during labor, and the effects of anesthetic drugs on both mother and fetus. Simulation-based medical education is another area of her research, aiming to improve interdisciplinary teamwork in obstetric crisis management. Her studies have influenced clinical guidelines and best practices in obstetric anesthesia. Dr. Balki is also involved in translational research, bridging the gap between laboratory findings and real-world clinical applications. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates pharmacology, anesthesiology, and obstetrics, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of maternal physiology and anesthetic response. Through her research, she continues to contribute to advancements in anesthesia safety, pain control, and maternal health outcomes.

Research Skills

Dr. Balki possesses a diverse set of research skills that have contributed to her success as a leading investigator in anesthesiology. She has expertise in designing and conducting randomized controlled trials, allowing her to generate high-quality clinical evidence. Her proficiency in in-vitro research methods has enabled her to explore myometrial contractility under various conditions, leading to innovative findings in obstetric pharmacology. She is skilled in advanced statistical analysis, ensuring data-driven decision-making in her research. Dr. Balki also excels in medical simulation-based research, using high-fidelity simulations to evaluate clinical teamwork and response to obstetric emergencies. She has experience in grant writing, securing significant funding for her studies. Additionally, her ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including anesthesiologists, obstetricians, and pharmacologists, has strengthened her research output. She is well-versed in systematic reviews and meta-analyses, allowing her to synthesize existing knowledge and identify research gaps. Her strong publication record, combined with her ability to translate research findings into clinical practice, demonstrates her exceptional research capabilities.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Balki has received numerous prestigious awards, reflecting her excellence in research and clinical practice. Internationally, she has been honored multiple times by the Society for Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology, receiving the esteemed Zuspan Award in 2006, 2009, 2010, and 2014. She has also won several Best Paper Awards, including at the Canadian Anesthesiologists’ Society Annual Meetings in 2008, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2016, and 2020. Her contributions to patient safety and medical education have been recognized with the Patient Safety Award and Research in Education Award in 2015. She was also awarded the Canadian Anesthesiologists’ Society Career Scientist Award and the Dr. R. A. Gordon Research Award. In addition to her received awards, she has been nominated multiple times for the Richard Knill Award, further affirming her impact on anesthesiology research. These recognitions highlight her consistent contributions to advancing knowledge and improving clinical practices in obstetric anesthesia.

Conclusion

Dr. Mrinalini Balki is a highly accomplished researcher whose work has made significant contributions to the field of anesthesiology, particularly in obstetric care. Her extensive research, spanning clinical trials and laboratory studies, has influenced maternal healthcare practices worldwide. Her leadership in academia, combined with her clinical expertise, has positioned her as a key figure in anesthesiology research. She has received multiple prestigious awards, reflecting her dedication to excellence and innovation. While her research primarily focuses on obstetric anesthesia, expanding collaborations in broader anesthesia fields and public health policy could further enhance her impact. Her exceptional research skills, commitment to education, and ability to translate findings into improved patient care make her a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Dr. Balki’s continued contributions to scientific advancements in anesthesia will undoubtedly shape the future of maternal and perioperative healthcare.

Publications Top Notes

1. Title: Oxytocin versus carbetocin at elective Cesarean delivery in parturients with class III obesity: a double-blind randomized controlled noninferiority trial
   Authors: W. Turner, William; L. Boonstra, Linda; C.V. Maxwell, Cynthia V.; K.N. Downey, Kristi N.; M. Balki, Mrinalini
   Year: 2025

2. Title: Maintenance infusion rate of oxytocin after initial 1-IU bolus for elective Cesarean delivery: a dose-finding study
   Authors: L. Boonstra, Linda; J.C.A. Carvalho, José Carlos Almeida; W. Turner, William; J.A. Thomas, Jackie A.; M. Balki, Mrinalini
   Year: 2024
   Citations: 1

3. Title: Differential sensory block during labour epidural analgesia: a prospective observational study to investigate the relationship of lower and upper sensory block levels to cold, pinprick, and light touch
   Authors: J.F. Casellato, Julia F.; M. Balki, Mrinalini; A. Wang, Andrew; K.N. Downey, Kristi N.; J.C.A. Carvalho, José Carlos Almeida
   Year: 2024
   Citations: 4

4. Title: In Response
   Authors: E. Peska, Emil; M. Balki, Mrinalini; W. Pfeifer, Wesla; K.N. Downey, Kristi N.; J.C.A. Carvalho, José Carlos Almeida

5. Title: Oxytocin at Elective Cesarean Delivery: A Dose-Finding Study in Pregnant People with Twin Pregnancy
   Authors: E. Peska, Emil; M. Balki, Mrinalini; W. Pfeifer, Wesla; K.N. Downey, Kristi N.; J.C.A. Carvalho, José Carlos Almeida
   Year: 2024
   Citations: 4

6. Title: Carbetocin vs. oxytocin at elective caesarean delivery: a reply
   Authors: M. Balki, Mrinalini; F. McDonagh, F.; J.C.A. Carvalho, José Carlos Almeida

7. Title: In Response
   Authors: O.F.C. van den Bosch, Oscar F.C.; R.A. Chaudhry, Rabail Arif; J. Wicker, James; L. Munshi, Laveena; M. Balki, Mrinalini

8. Title: Predictors and Hospital Outcomes in Pregnant Patients Undergoing Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Nationwide Study
   Authors: O.F.C. van den Bosch, Oscar F.C.; R.A. Chaudhry, Rabail Arif; J. Wicker, James; L. Munshi, Laveena; M. Balki, Mrinalini
   Year: 2022
   Citations: 13

9. Title: Association of body fluid distribution with obstructive sleep apnea in pregnant individuals with a body mass index ≥ 40 kg·m²—a prospective observational feasibility study
   Authors: J. Wicker, James; C.V. Maxwell, Cynthia V.; K.N. Downey, Kristi N.; M. Singh, Mandeep; M. Balki, Mrinalini

10. Title: General anesthesia for Cesarean delivery in a parturient critically ill with COVID-19: a case report
    Authors: B. Kaminski, Bradley; W. Turner, William; M. Virdee, Misha; W.L. Whittle, Wendy L.; M. Balki, Mrinalini

Jonathan Thomas Matthew Super is a dedicated medical professional and researcher with expertise in trauma and orthopaedics. He holds an MBBS from Imperial College London and a First-Class Honours BSc in Exercise and Sport Sciences from Exeter University. With a strong clinical background and an impressive publication record, he has contributed extensively to orthopaedic research, focusing on biomechanics, surgical techniques, and healthcare inequalities. His work has been recognized through multiple commendations and awards, including the Wildcard Prize at the South East Scotland Orthopaedic Research Day. Jonathan’s ability to merge clinical practice with research has positioned him as a promising figure in the field of orthopaedics.

Professional Profile

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• ORCID Profile
• Google Scholar

Education

Jonathan Super completed his MBBS at Imperial College London between 2013 and 2020. During this time, he also pursued an intercalated BSc in Exercise and Sport Sciences at Exeter University, graduating with First-Class Honours in 2018. His early education at Solihull School was marked by academic excellence, earning 10 A*s at GCSE and A-levels in Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, and Latin. He has further demonstrated his commitment to medical education by successfully passing the Intercollegiate MRCS examinations, solidifying his foundation in surgical sciences and clinical practice. His educational achievements reflect his dedication to both medicine and research.

Professional Experience

Jonathan’s clinical experience spans multiple specialties, with a primary focus on trauma and orthopaedics. Since August 2022, he has been undergoing Specialty Training in Trauma and Orthopaedics in the South East Scotland Rotation. Prior to this, he completed his Foundation Year training at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, gaining experience in orthogeriatric medicine, accident and emergency, otolaryngology, gastroenterology, general surgery, and liaison psychiatry. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he served as a volunteer and interim foundation doctor at St Mary’s Hospital, Paddington, showcasing his resilience and commitment to patient care. His diverse clinical background strengthens his ability to conduct research that is directly relevant to medical practice.

Research Interest

Jonathan’s research interests lie at the intersection of orthopaedic surgery, biomechanics, and healthcare disparities. He has explored topics such as biologic augmentation of meniscus repair, intra-articular injections for knee osteoarthritis, and survivorship outcomes in total ankle arthroplasty. Additionally, he has contributed to research on burnout in postgraduate trainees and the impact of socioeconomic status on medical training. His work highlights a commitment to improving both surgical techniques and the broader healthcare system. By addressing both clinical and systemic issues, Jonathan aims to advance the quality of patient care while also shaping medical education and policy.

Research Skills

Jonathan has developed a strong skill set in research methodologies, data analysis, and clinical trials. He is proficient in systematic reviews, retrospective cohort studies, and qualitative research. His ability to work with large datasets and analyze outcomes in orthopaedic surgery has led to multiple peer-reviewed publications. Additionally, he has experience in manuscript writing, grant applications, and conference presentations. His collaborative work with multidisciplinary teams further demonstrates his ability to contribute effectively to complex research projects. His research skills not only support his academic contributions but also ensure that his findings have practical applications in clinical practice.

Awards and Honors

Jonathan has received several academic and professional accolades throughout his career. At Imperial College London, he earned a Merit in Psychiatry, while his time at Exeter University was marked by a Dean’s Commendation and a Sport and Health Sciences Commendation for Academic Performance. His undergraduate research was recognized with the Human Kinetics Prize for Best Dissertation Poster. More recently, he was awarded the Wildcard Prize at the South East Scotland Orthopaedic Research Day in 2024. His achievements reflect both academic excellence and a commitment to advancing medical knowledge.

Conclusion

Jonathan Super has established himself as a dedicated clinician and researcher in the field of orthopaedics. His strong academic foundation, diverse clinical experience, and extensive research contributions position him as a promising candidate for prestigious scientific recognition. While he has already made significant strides in orthopaedic research, further leadership roles, independent research funding, and international collaborations would enhance his impact in the field. His commitment to advancing medical science and improving patient outcomes underscores his potential as a distinguished scientist.

Publications Top Notes

• Title: 30-day morbidity and mortality of bariatric surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic: a multinational cohort study of 7704 patients from 42 countries
  Authors: R. Singhal, C. Ludwig, G. Rudge, G.V. Gkoutos, A. Tahrani, K. Mahawar, …
  Year: 2021
  Citations: 54

• Title: 30-day morbidity and mortality of sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and one anastomosis gastric bypass: a propensity score-matched analysis of the GENEVA data
  Authors: R. Singhal, V.R. Cardoso, T. Wiggins, J. Super, C. Ludwig, G.V. Gkoutos, …
  Year: 2022
  Citations: 46

• Title: Waiting lists for symptomatic joint arthritis are not benign: prioritizing patients for surgery in the setting of COVID-19
  Authors: J.A. Morris, J. Super, D. Huntley, T. Ashdown, W. Harland, R. Anakwe
  Year: 2020
  Citations: 33

• Title: Effect of COVID-19 pandemic on global bariatric surgery practices – The COBRAS study
  Authors: R. Singhal, A.A. Tahrani, N. Sakran, M. Herrera, V. Menon, M. Khaitan, …
  Year: 2021
  Citations: 27

• Title: 30‐Day morbidity and mortality of bariatric metabolic surgery in adolescence during the COVID‐19 pandemic – The GENEVA study
  Authors: R. Singhal, T. Wiggins, J. Super, A. Alqahtani, E.P. Nadler, C. Ludwig, …
  Year: 2021
  Citations: 18

• Title: Current concepts in the management of bisphosphonate-associated atypical femoral fractures
  Authors: B. Rudran, J. Super, R. Jandoo, V. Babu, S. Nathan, E. Ibrahim, A.V. Wiik
  Year: 2021
  Citations: 16

• Title: Open tibia/fibula in the elderly: a retrospective cohort study
  Authors: A. Lee, L. Geoghegan, G. Nolan, K. Cooper, J. Super, M. Pearse, S. Naique, …
  Year: 2022
  Citations: 15

• Title: Triaging of respiratory protective equipment on the assumed risk of SARS-CoV-2 aerosol exposure in patient-facing healthcare workers delivering secondary care: a rapid review
  Authors: P. Ramaraj, J. Super, R. Doyle, C. Aylwin, S. Hettiaratchy
  Year: 2020
  Citations: 12

• Title: FFP3 Feelings and Clinical Experience (FaCE). Facial pressure injuries in healthcare workers from FFP3 masks during the COVID-19 pandemic
  Authors: R.M. Kwasnicki, J.T. Super, P. Ramaraj, L. Savine, S.P. Hettiaratchy
  Year: 2022
  Citations: 11

• Title: 30-day morbidity and mortality of sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and one anastomosis gastric bypass: A propensity score-matched analysis of the GENEVA data
  Authors: R. Singhal, V.R. Cardoso, T. Wiggins, J. Super, C. Ludwig, G.V. Gkoutos, …
  Year: 2022
  Citations: 7

Dr. Qi Yang Damien Qi is an advanced trainee in endocrinology with a strong background in clinical research, medical education, and quality improvement initiatives. His subspecialty interests include obesity, diabetes, and pituitary medicine, with a focus on translating research findings into improved patient care. Throughout his career, he has actively contributed to clinical research, publishing in high-impact journals and presenting findings at major national and international conferences. Dr. Qi has also played a key role in multiple quality improvement projects aimed at optimizing endocrinology practices. His leadership in medical education and mentoring has further enhanced his contributions to the field. A recipient of prestigious academic awards, including the Royal Melbourne Hospital Muriel Moody Prize and University of Melbourne Biomedicine Valedictorian, Dr. Qi is recognized for both his research excellence and compassionate clinical care. He maintains active memberships in leading professional organizations, including the Endocrine Society of Australia and the Australian Diabetes Society. With a commitment to advancing endocrinology through evidence-based research and innovation, Dr. Qi continues to contribute significantly to the medical and scientific community.

Professional Profile

• Scopus Profile

Education

Dr. Qi completed his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree at the University of Melbourne from 2014 to 2017, achieving a strong academic performance with an average score of 75.712. Prior to that, he earned a Bachelor of Biomedicine with a major in Genetics from the same university (2011–2013), where he was honored as the Class of 2013 Valedictorian, achieving an average score of 73.792. His strong academic foundation began at Scotch College, where he graduated with an outstanding ATAR score of 99.55. In addition to his formal education, Dr. Qi has actively engaged in continuing medical education through specialized training programs and professional development courses. He has attended various workshops, including the Journal Review Workshop Series on osteoporosis and metabolic bone disease, and has participated in multiple high-profile endocrinology and diabetes congresses such as the Australasian Diabetes Congress and the Endocrine Society of Australia Annual Scientific Meeting. His commitment to lifelong learning is evident in his continuous involvement in research, education, and clinical advancements, positioning him as a dedicated and well-rounded medical professional in endocrinology.

Professional Experience

Dr. Qi has gained extensive clinical experience through his work in multiple prestigious healthcare institutions. He began his career with an internship at Melbourne Health in 2018, where he rotated through various departments, including medicine, surgery, and emergency care. From 2019 to 2021, he completed his Basic Physician Training at Melbourne Health, gaining exposure to endocrinology, neurology, general medicine, hematology, cardiology, nephrology, and geriatrics. Since 2022, he has been an Endocrinology Advanced Trainee at Melbourne Health and Albury Wodonga Health, taking on inpatient, consult, and outpatient responsibilities. His clinical expertise spans general endocrinology, diabetes management, thyroid disorders, obesity treatment, metabolic bone diseases, and endocrine conditions in pregnancy. He has also undertaken overnight and weekend endocrinology on-call duties, further strengthening his hands-on experience in managing complex endocrine cases. Additionally, he has played a pivotal role in organizing and presenting multidisciplinary meetings on pituitary diseases, thyroid cancer, diabetes, and osteoporosis. His leadership in medical education includes supervising junior doctors, organizing specialty training sessions, and mentoring medical students. Through his diverse clinical roles, Dr. Qi has demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing patient care through both clinical practice and research.

Research Interests

Dr. Qi’s research focuses on endocrinology, with particular interests in obesity management, diabetes treatment, and pituitary disorders. He has contributed to research exploring long-term outcomes of weight loss interventions in overweight individuals with type 2 diabetes, as well as the impact of perioperative diabetes management on medication adherence in elective surgery. His interest in metabolic bone diseases is reflected in his work on optimizing the use of intravenous zoledronic acid for osteoporosis management. He has also investigated novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for autoimmune-related diabetes and endocrine complications associated with immune checkpoint inhibitors. His research extends to the role of endocrine biomarkers in disease progression and the impact of hormonal imbalances on metabolic health. Through his involvement in quality improvement projects, he has sought to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice by developing structured protocols to enhance endocrine care. Dr. Qi remains committed to furthering knowledge in endocrinology, with a focus on evidence-based, patient-centered interventions that improve long-term health outcomes. His research contributions are widely recognized through publications, conference presentations, and collaborations with leading endocrinologists and medical researchers.

Research Skills

Dr. Qi possesses a diverse range of research skills that contribute to his success as a clinician-researcher. He has expertise in conducting clinical studies, including designing research protocols, data collection, statistical analysis, and manuscript preparation. His proficiency in systematic reviews and meta-analyses allows him to critically evaluate existing literature and contribute to evidence-based medical advancements. He has experience in interdisciplinary collaborations, working with researchers in endocrinology, metabolism, and internal medicine. His ability to present research findings effectively is demonstrated through his numerous oral and poster presentations at national and international medical conferences. Additionally, he has been involved in peer reviewing scientific articles, further honing his critical appraisal skills. His research leadership extends to mentoring junior researchers and medical students, guiding them in research methodology and academic writing. He is also skilled in securing institutional approvals and ethical clearances for clinical research projects. Through his technical and analytical expertise, Dr. Qi has played a key role in translating scientific research into clinical applications that enhance patient care. His commitment to continuous learning and innovation makes him a valuable contributor to the field of endocrinology research.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Qi has received several prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his academic excellence, clinical skills, and research contributions. In 2015, he was awarded the Royal Melbourne Hospital Muriel Moody Prize, a distinction given to a single medical student each year for demonstrating exceptional skill, kindness, and human understanding in patient care. In 2013, he was named the Class of 2013 Valedictorian for the Bachelor of Biomedicine program at the University of Melbourne, reflecting his outstanding academic achievements. His musical excellence was also recognized at a young age when he received an Associate in Music, Australia (AMusA) in Violin from the Australian Music Examinations Board at the age of 14. Throughout his medical training, he has continued to receive accolades for his research and presentations at major conferences. His work has been selected for oral and poster presentations at leading endocrinology and diabetes congresses, including the Australasian Diabetes Congress, Endocrine Society of Australia Annual Scientific Meeting, and American Diabetes Association’s Scientific Sessions. These achievements highlight his dedication to excellence in both clinical medicine and research.

Conclusion

Dr. Qi Yang Damien Qi is a highly accomplished endocrinology trainee, researcher, and educator with a strong commitment to advancing medical science. His extensive clinical experience, combined with his dedication to research in diabetes, obesity, and pituitary disorders, positions him as a leading contributor to the field. His academic achievements and research excellence are reflected in numerous publications, conference presentations, and quality improvement initiatives that have had a tangible impact on patient care. His leadership in education and mentoring further underscores his dedication to fostering the next generation of medical professionals. Dr. Qi’s ability to integrate research with clinical practice enables him to develop innovative solutions that improve health outcomes for patients with endocrine disorders. His numerous awards and honors highlight his outstanding contributions to medicine and research. Moving forward, his focus on translational research, international collaborations, and securing research funding will further solidify his impact in endocrinology. With a strong track record of excellence and a clear vision for the future, Dr. Qi is a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award in Research and a promising leader in his field.

Publications Top Notes