Maryam Ghasempour | Dentistry | Women Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Maryam Ghasempour | Dentistry | Women Researcher Award

Babol University of Medical Sciences, Iran

Professor Maryam Ghasempour is a distinguished academic and researcher in pediatric dentistry, with over three decades of experience in clinical practice, teaching, and research. She currently serves as the Head of Postgraduate Studies in the Pediatric Dentistry Department at Babol University of Medical Sciences, where she is also a member of the Research Council and Oral Health Research Center. She has played a key role in advancing pediatric dental research, particularly in the areas of microbiology, dental anomalies, and preventive dentistry. Having published extensively in national and international journals, Professor Ghasempour has contributed significantly to the understanding of oral health in children. Her leadership extends to organizing academic events, including serving as the President of the 21st Congress of the Iranian Association of Pediatric Dentistry in 2024. She has also mentored numerous postgraduate students, fostering the next generation of dental researchers. Her commitment to evidence-based pediatric dentistry and public health initiatives highlights her influence in the field.

Professional Profile

Education

Professor Maryam Ghasempour’s academic journey began with a Doctorate of Dentistry from Shahid Beheshti Dental School in Tehran, Iran, in 1990. She then specialized in pediatric dentistry, earning a Pedodontics degree from Mashhad Dental School in 1995. Her dedication to furthering her expertise led her to Cardiff University in the United Kingdom, where she completed a fellowship in pediatric dentistry in 2002. This international training enriched her knowledge in advanced techniques and methodologies within pediatric dentistry. Over the years, she has continued her academic progression, achieving the rank of Associate Professor in 2016 and later being promoted to Full Professor at Babol University of Medical Sciences in 2024. Her strong academic background, coupled with extensive research and clinical experience, has established her as a leading expert in pediatric dentistry, with a focus on innovative treatment modalities, oral microbiology, and preventive dental care.

Professional Experience

Professor Ghasempour’s career spans several prestigious roles within the field of pediatric dentistry. She began as an Assistant Professor at Babol University of Medical Sciences in 1995 and has since progressed to Full Professor in 2024. Throughout her career, she has held key administrative and leadership positions, including serving as the Head of Postgraduate Studies in the Pediatric Dentistry Department and as a member of the Research Council at Babol Dental School. She has played an active role in curriculum development, postgraduate mentorship, and interdisciplinary research collaborations. Her influence extends beyond academia, as she has been involved in organizing national and international conferences, including serving as the President of the 21st Congress of the Iranian Association of Pediatric Dentistry in 2024. Her professional contributions have significantly advanced pediatric dental research and education in Iran and beyond.

Research Interests

Professor Ghasempour’s research focuses on various aspects of pediatric dentistry, including dental microbiology, preventive dentistry, oral health epidemiology, and dental anomalies. She has conducted extensive studies on the role of oral microbiota in early childhood caries, biofilm formation, and the effects of probiotics and natural extracts on dental pathogens. Additionally, she has explored dental developmental anomalies and their clinical implications, as well as the relationship between systemic conditions and oral health. Her research also extends to evaluating new treatment materials, such as fluoride-releasing compounds and antimicrobial agents, for their effectiveness in pediatric dental care. With a strong interest in public health dentistry, she has worked on projects assessing oral health awareness and preventive strategies among children and their families. Her interdisciplinary approach to research has led to numerous high-impact publications in international journals.

Research Skills

Professor Ghasempour possesses a diverse range of research skills that have contributed to her extensive body of work. She is proficient in clinical research methodologies, statistical analysis, and laboratory-based microbiological studies. Her expertise includes in vitro and in vivo experimental designs, molecular microbiology techniques, and biomaterial testing for pediatric dentistry applications. Additionally, she has experience in epidemiological research, conducting large-scale surveys on oral health and dental care practices among pediatric populations. Her ability to integrate clinical practice with scientific inquiry has allowed her to develop innovative approaches for diagnosing and managing pediatric dental conditions. Furthermore, she has strong mentorship skills, guiding postgraduate students in their research endeavors. Her work often involves interdisciplinary collaborations, bridging gaps between dentistry, microbiology, and public health to enhance the understanding and treatment of childhood dental diseases.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her career, Professor Ghasempour has received several awards and recognitions for her contributions to pediatric dentistry and research. Her work has been widely acknowledged in national and international forums, and she has been a recipient of multiple research grants supporting her innovative studies in oral health. As a prominent researcher, she has also been invited to present at numerous academic conferences and serve as a keynote speaker. Her leadership in the field has led to her appointment as the President of the 21st Congress of the Iranian Association of Pediatric Dentistry in 2024. Additionally, her role in advancing dental education and research has been recognized by Babol University of Medical Sciences, where she has played a crucial role in shaping postgraduate programs. These accolades reflect her dedication to improving pediatric dental care through research, education, and public health initiatives.

Conclusion

Professor Maryam Ghasempour is a leading figure in pediatric dentistry, with a distinguished career spanning research, education, and clinical practice. Her extensive publication record, leadership roles, and contributions to dental education have made a lasting impact on the field. She has played a crucial role in advancing pediatric dental research, particularly in microbiology, preventive dentistry, and dental anomalies. Her dedication to mentorship and academic leadership has shaped the next generation of dental professionals. As an advocate for evidence-based dentistry, she continues to contribute to the development of innovative treatment approaches and public health strategies aimed at improving oral health outcomes in children. Through her expertise, research, and leadership, she has established herself as a key figure in pediatric dentistry, making significant strides in both national and international dental communities.

Publications Top Notes

  1. Evaluation of salivary thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, total protein, and pH in children with various degrees of early childhood caries: a case-control study

    • Authors: Aliakbarpour F, Mahjoub S, Masrour-Roudsari J, Seyedmajidi S, Ghasempour M

    • Year: 2021

  2. The association between the salivary cortisol level of mothers, children’s temperament, and early childhood caries

    • Authors: Abedizadeh H, Faramarzi M, Khafri S, Qujeq Q, Ahangary M, Ghasempour M

    • Year: 2021

  3. Anti-Streptococcus mutans property of a chitosan-containing resin sealant

    • Authors: Rajabnia R, Ghasempour M, Gharekhani S, Gholamhoseinnia S, Soroorhomayoon S

    • Year: 2016

  4. Comparative in vitro study of the effectiveness of Green tea extract and common storage media on periodontal ligament fibroblast viability

    • Authors: Adeli F, Zabihi E, Abedian Z, Gharekhani S, Pouramir M, Khafri S, Ghasempour M

    • Year: 2016

  5. Impact of oral and dental health on quality of life in Iranian preschool children and their families

    • Authors: Nemati S, Ghasempour M, Khafri S

    • Year: 2016

  6. Effect of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Lippia citriodora on Candida albicans

    • Authors: Ghasempour M, Omran SM, Moghadamnia AA, Shafiee F

    • Year: 2016

  7. Relationship between Learning Style and Academic Status of Babol Dental Students

    • Authors: Nasiri Z, Gharekhani S, Ghasempour M

    • Year: 2016

  8. Effect of milk and yogurt on Streptococcus sobrinus counts and caries score in rats

    • Authors: Ghasempour M, Rajabnia R, Ashrafpour M, Ehsani A, Moghadamnia AA, Gharekhani S, Shahandashti EF, Bagheri M

    • Year: 2015

  9. In vitro viability of human periodontal ligament cells in green tea extract

    • Authors: Ghasempour M, Moghadamnia AA, Abedian Z, Amir MP, Feizi F, Gharekhani S

    • Year: 2015

Didem Tezen | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Didem Tezen | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award

Istanbul University- Cerrahpasa, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine, Turkey

Dr. Didem Tezen is a dedicated neurologist and researcher with a strong academic background and extensive experience in clinical neurology. She has contributed significantly to the field through her research on neuromuscular disorders, dementia, movement disorders, and neurogenetics. With multiple publications in reputable journals, she has demonstrated expertise in both clinical and molecular neuroscience. Dr. Tezen’s research focuses on the genetic and biochemical mechanisms underlying neurological diseases, aiming to advance diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. She has worked at prestigious institutions, including Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa and Bakırköy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital, and currently serves at Oltu State Hospital in Erzurum, Turkey. Her work is highly regarded for its impact on understanding rare neuromuscular syndromes, neuroinflammatory pathways, and neurodegeneration. She actively collaborates with leading experts in neurology and has played a key role in pioneering studies on biomarkers for dementia and genetic mutations in movement disorders. Dr. Tezen’s commitment to scientific discovery and her clinical expertise make her a valuable contributor to the field of neurology. Her growing international presence and dedication to translational research place her among the emerging leaders in neurological research and patient care.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Didem Tezen has pursued a distinguished academic journey in medicine and neurology, building a solid foundation for her research and clinical practice. She completed her medical education at Istanbul University, Istanbul Faculty of Medicine from 2011 to 2017, where she developed her fundamental medical knowledge and clinical skills. After graduating, she advanced her expertise by specializing in neurology at Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, between 2018 and 2024. This rigorous residency program provided her with extensive experience in managing a wide range of neurological conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases, neuromuscular disorders, and cerebrovascular diseases. During her studies, she actively participated in clinical research projects and collaborated with experienced faculty members, allowing her to gain practical knowledge in neurophysiology, neuroimaging, and genetic neurology. Her educational background has played a crucial role in shaping her research interests, particularly in biomarker discovery, genetic analysis, and neuroinflammatory mechanisms in neurological disorders. Currently, she continues to apply her knowledge and expand her expertise as a practicing neurologist, while also engaging in ongoing research in her field. Her academic achievements and commitment to lifelong learning highlight her dedication to advancing neurological science and patient care.

Professional Experience

Dr. Didem Tezen has accumulated extensive clinical and research experience throughout her career in neurology. She began her professional journey at Bakırköy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training and Research Hospital, where she worked from 2017 to 2018, gaining firsthand experience in diagnosing and treating a variety of neurological conditions. This period provided her with essential clinical skills and exposure to neurology emergencies and complex neurological disorders. From 2018 to 2024, she further honed her expertise at Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, Cerrahpaşa Faculty of Medicine, Neurology Department, where she was involved in both clinical neurology and research. During this time, she contributed to several groundbreaking studies focusing on neurodegenerative diseases, neuromuscular disorders, and molecular neurology. She collaborated with esteemed researchers and specialists in neurophysiology, genetics, and electrophysiology, leading to several high-impact publications. As of 2024, Dr. Tezen has been serving as a neurologist at Oltu State Hospital in Erzurum, Turkey, where she continues to provide specialized care to patients with complex neurological disorders. Her clinical expertise, combined with her strong research background, allows her to integrate the latest scientific advancements into patient treatment, making her a highly valued physician and researcher in the field of neurology.

Research Interests

Dr. Didem Tezen’s research interests are primarily focused on the genetic and biochemical mechanisms of neurological diseases, aiming to improve both diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. One of her key areas of interest is neurodegeneration, particularly the role of biomarkers and neuroinflammatory pathways in dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Her research has explored the clinical significance of YKL-40, VILIP-1, and inflammatory cytokines in neurodegenerative disorders, shedding light on their potential use as biomarkers for disease progression. She is also deeply engaged in studying neuromuscular diseases, with a focus on congenital myasthenic syndromes, hereditary polyneuropathies, and motor neuron diseases. Her investigations into genetic mutations associated with these disorders have provided critical insights into their pathophysiology. Additionally, she has contributed to research on movement disorders, examining rare cases of ADCY5 gene mutations and cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis. Dr. Tezen is also interested in clinical neurophysiology, particularly the application of electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies in diagnosing neuromuscular and movement disorders. Her multidisciplinary approach, integrating genetics, neuroinflammation, and electrophysiology, positions her as a forward-thinking researcher in the field of neurology.

Research Skills

Dr. Didem Tezen possesses a diverse set of research skills that enable her to conduct high-quality scientific investigations in neurology. She is proficient in neurogenetics, with expertise in analyzing genetic mutations related to neuromuscular diseases and movement disorders. Her ability to integrate molecular genetics and clinical findings has significantly contributed to understanding rare neurological conditions. She is also skilled in biomarker research, particularly in the context of dementia and neurodegeneration. Her experience in measuring serum biomarkers, neuroinflammatory markers, and neurodegenerative proteins has advanced the field’s understanding of disease progression and potential treatment targets. In clinical neurophysiology, she has expertise in performing and interpreting electrophysiological tests, such as EMG and nerve conduction studies, which are essential for diagnosing neuromuscular disorders. Additionally, her research involves advanced neuroimaging techniques, including MRI analysis of brain volume changes in dementia patients. Her ability to design clinical studies, analyze statistical data, and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams further enhances her research capabilities. Her strong academic writing skills have also enabled her to publish multiple research papers in peer-reviewed journals, reinforcing her reputation as an accomplished researcher.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Didem Tezen has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to neurology research through several awards and honors. She has received institutional recognition for her work in biomarker discovery and neurogenetics, contributing to a deeper understanding of neurodegenerative and neuromuscular disorders. Her research on biomarkers in dementia and neuroinflammatory pathways has been highly regarded in neurology conferences and academic circles. She has also played a key role in multi-disciplinary research teams that have advanced the field of neuromuscular genetics. In addition to her scientific achievements, Dr. Tezen’s clinical excellence and commitment to patient care have earned her commendations from senior neurologists and faculty members. Her dedication to both research and clinical neurology sets her apart as a well-rounded physician-scientist. With her growing body of work and increasing international presence, she is poised to receive further recognition for her contributions to neurology and neuroscience research in the years to come.

Conclusion

Dr. Didem Tezen is a highly accomplished neurologist and researcher with a strong background in neuromuscular disorders, neurodegeneration, and neurogenetics. Her extensive research output, clinical expertise, and multidisciplinary approach make her a valuable asset to the field of neurology. Her contributions to biomarker discovery, genetic analysis, and electrophysiology have advanced our understanding of neurological diseases, earning her recognition among peers. While she has already established a strong foundation, further expanding her international collaborations, securing research funding, and increasing first-author publications could elevate her to greater scientific prominence. Overall, Dr. Tezen is a deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award, and her dedication to scientific excellence will continue to have a significant impact on neurology research and patient care.

Scientific Activities

  1. Tezen D, Koçhan Kızılkılıç E, Akkan Suzan A, et al. 2025.

    • Correlation between serum YKL-40 and VILIP 1 levels and brain volume in dementia patients.
  2. Tezen D, Khojakulov Z, Gündüz A, Deymeer F, Demirbilek V, Başak AN. 2024.

    • Clinical, electrophysiological, and genetic analysis of a family with two rare neuromuscular disorders: congenital myasthenic syndrome and hereditary polyneuropathy.
  3. Tezen D, Kızılkılıç EK, Erener N, Khojakulov Z, Demirbilek V, Başak AN. 2025.

    • Experience with salbutamol treatment in a family with congenital myasthenia due to CHRNE mutation.
  4. Tezen D, Savrun F. 2023.

    • Alt Motor Nöron Hastalıkları, in Türkiye Klinikleri Nöroloji Özel Sayı-Motor Nöron Hastalıkları, edited by Nurten Uzun Adatepe.
  5. Gulmammadli N, Konukoğlu D, Merve Kurtuluş E, Tezen D, Ibrahim Erbay M, Bozluolçay M. 2022.

    • Serum Sirtuin-1, HMGB1-TLR4, NF-KB and IL-6 levels in Alzheimer’s: The Relation Between Neuroinflammatory Pathway and Severity of Dementia.
  6. Tezen D, Gunduz A, Erdemir Kiziltan M, Yalcinkaya C, Kiziltan G. 2022.

    • ADCY5 gene mutation: a case report.
  7. Tezen D, Şimşir G, Çokar Ö, Demirbilek V, Başak AN, Yapıcı Z. 2022.

    • Four Turkish families with hyperekplexia: A missense mutation and the exon 1-7 deletion in the GLRA1 gene.
  8. Aktuglu Zeybek C, Gunduz A, Enver EO, Tezen D, Kiykim E, Kızıltan ME. 2020.

    • Movement disorders in the early-diagnosed cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis: An electrophysiological study.
  9. Benbir Şenel G, Tezen D, Tekgül Ş, Başak AN. 2020.

    • Co-existence of Mutations in PRRT2 and ABCC6 Genes in a Turkish Family.