Napoleon Bellua Sam | Epidemiology and Biostatistics | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Napoleon Bellua Sam | Epidemiology and Biostatistics | Best Researcher Award

University for Development Studies, Tamale, Ghana.

Dr. Napoleon Bellua Sam is a biostatistician, epidemiologist, and Senior Lecturer at the University for Development Studies (UDS), Ghana. With a Ph.D. in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, he has significant expertise in medical research, data governance, biostatistical modeling, and public health analytics. Dr. Sam has held roles including Research Development Officer and Statistician at UDS, and Senior Tutor at the University of Cape Coast. He has led multiple impactful research projects on disease trends, healthcare efficiency, and treatment adherence. Internationally engaged, he serves as Co-PI for the NIHR Global Health Group on equitable healthcare and actively contributes to workshops, editorial boards, and training programs across Africa and Asia. Dr. Sam’s work aims to enhance healthcare systems through advanced statistical applications and evidence-based practices, with a strong passion for mentoring and capacity building in research and academia.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Napoleon Bellua Sam holds a Ph.D. in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from Anhui Medical University, China (2017–2020), a Master’s degree in Industrial Mathematics from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana (2010–2012), and a BSc. in Statistics from the University of Cape Coast (2004–2008). He also earned a Higher National Diploma in Electrical/Electronic Engineering from Takoradi Polytechnic (2000–2003). In addition to his formal education, Dr. Sam has undertaken extensive global training through short courses on biostatistics, research ethics, statistical software, data management, climate science, and machine learning in countries such as Kenya, India, Nigeria, and South Africa. He also holds a diploma in Pastoral Counseling from Rhema Leadership Institute and is a ministerial candidate at Trinity Theological Seminary. These multidisciplinary credentials have shaped his expertise in statistical analysis, epidemiological modeling, and health research governance, enabling his leadership in academic and public health research domains across Africa and beyond.

Professional Experience

Dr. Napoleon Bellua Sam has amassed over 15 years of academic and research experience. He currently serves as a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Medical Research and Innovation at UDS. Previously, he was Research Development Officer (2016–2021) and Assistant Research Development Officer (2014–2016) at UDS. He also worked as a Senior Technician (Statistician) from 2009–2014. Concurrently, he has been a Senior Tutor at the University of Cape Coast’s Center for Distance Education since 2012. His academic contributions include teaching graduate-level courses in Biostatistics, Research Methods, and Health Statistics. Earlier in his career, he completed national service at Takoradi Polytechnic and the University of Cape Coast. His diverse roles have allowed him to bridge teaching, statistical consultancy, and research administration. Dr. Sam’s teaching and leadership roles underscore his commitment to enhancing academic excellence, research productivity, and evidence-informed policy-making in health and education systems.

Research Interests

Dr. Napoleon Bellua Sam’s research focuses on applying advanced biostatistics and epidemiological methods to improve public health outcomes, particularly in resource-limited settings. His current projects explore the efficiency of healthcare delivery using data envelopment analysis, longitudinal quality of life assessments among leprosy patients, and statistical modeling of disease patterns such as cerebrospinal meningitis in Northern Ghana. He applies survival analysis, structural equation modeling, and time-series forecasting in his studies. Dr. Sam is also engaged in systematic reviews and meta-analyses, particularly in inflammatory biomarkers like myeloperoxidase in rheumatoid arthritis patients. His research supports decision-making in health policy and planning. As Co-PI of the NIHR Equi-Injury project, his work centers on equitable healthcare access for injured populations across low- and middle-income countries. Passionate about data science for health systems strengthening, Dr. Sam continuously integrates machine learning and modern analytics to address complex healthcare challenges in Africa and beyond.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Napoleon Bellua Sam has been honored with multiple prestigious awards and grants. He was named Best Postgraduate Foreign Student upon graduation from Anhui Medical University in 2020 and served as Alumni Liaison Ambassador for Ghana and Africa graduates of the university. He received a fully funded Ph.D. scholarship from the Chinese Scholarship Council in 2017. He has secured several competitive international grants, including travel and training grants from institutions such as NIHR Global Surgery Unit, NAMBARI/DSSD, and the Data Science Initiative for Africa. These funded his participation in workshops on machine learning, climate change, health systems, and statistical data analysis in countries like Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, India, and Liberia. As a Co-PI of the NIHR Global Health Group project, he is currently involved in a multi-country research program on equitable access to quality healthcare, managing a substantial grant of over £213,000. These recognitions affirm his impactful contributions to global health research.

Publications Top Notes

Mr. Kennedy Kipkoech | Infectious Disease Mathematical Modelling | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Kennedy Kipkoech | Infectious Disease Mathematical Modelling | Best Researcher Award

PhD student at Infectious Disease Mathematical Modelling, University of Bristol, Kenya

Mr. Kennedy Kipkoech is a career Biostatistician and Modeler with 14 years of experience in research and policy at health research institutions and government agencies. He can work with researchers, program implementers, and policymakers in scientific inquiries, generating and disseminating new knowledge to inform policy and programming. His research interests focus on using epidemiological methods and statistical and mathematical modeling approaches to understand transmission dynamics and control of infectious diseases, particularly the evaluation of the impact of program interventions on HIV, viral hepatitis, and non-communicable diseases epidemics.

Professional Profiles:

Education:

Mr. Kennedy Kipkoech has a diverse academic background, including a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Statistics from Maseno University, Kenya, awarded with First Class Honors in 2008. He also holds a Master’s degree in Biostatistics from Moi University, Kenya, obtained in 2011. Currently, he is pursuing a Ph.D. in Infectious Disease Modelling at the University of Bristol/Cape Town, expected to be completed in 2024.

Experience:

From March 2010 to June 2013, Mr. Kennedy Kipkoech worked as a Data Analyst at the Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research (KEMRICGHR) in Kisumu, Kenya. In this role, he was responsible for statistical data analysis and data management, scientific writing of manuscripts and abstracts, developing data tools, and liaising with software developers to develop and test program data management systems. Following this, from July 2013 to August 2014, he served as a Biostatistician at the Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) Research Collaboration in Eldoret, Kenya. His responsibilities included statistical data analysis, protocol and proposal development, manuscript and abstract writing and review, and updating and reporting to the Data and Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) on an ad hoc basis. Subsequently, from September 2014 to April 2016, Mr. Kipkoech worked at the Kenya Medical Research Institute, Center for Global Health Research (KEMRICGHR) in Kisumu, Kenya, as a Statistician. Here, he was involved in statistical data analysis, protocol and proposal development, manuscript and abstract writing and review, and design and implementation of comprehensive monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems for the program. He also provided training and mentorship to junior data staff.

Computing Skills:

Mr. Kennedy Kipkoech possesses a range of computing skills essential for his work. He is proficient in mathematical modeling software such as Estimation and Projection Package (EPP), Spectrum model (AIM, Goals and Resource Needs Model), Imperial College NCD model (C++ & Matlab), Incidence Pattern Model (R implementation), and DREAMS Cost and Impact Model. He is also skilled in various statistical packages including R, SAS, Stata, SPSS, and Geographic Information Systems (Q-GIS). Additionally, Mr. Kipkoech has experience with database management systems like MS Access and SQL Server. He is adept at using MS Office applications, has knowledge in graphic design, and is capable of hardware and software installation and maintenance.

Scholarships Awards:

Mr. Kennedy Kipkoech has received several scholarships and awards in recognition of his academic and professional achievements. These include the INSHU Conference registration scholarship award in Sydney, Australia in 2023, the ICASA Conference registration scholarship award in Durban, South Africa in 2021, and the University of Bristol, UK, and University of Cape Town, SA Cotutelle (dual) PhD award in 2019. He has also been awarded the RSTMH travel grant in 2017, the IAS Conference scholarship award in Durban, South Africa in 2016, and the HVR4P Conference scholarship award in Chicago, USA in 2016. Additionally, Mr. Kipkoech received the RSTMH travel grant in 2016 and 2015, and the 2015 HVTN Conference scholarship award in Cape Town, South Africa.

Assist Prof Dr. Jean Peyhardi | Statistics | Best Researcher Award

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Assist Prof Dr. Jean Peyhardi | Statistics | Best Researcher Award

IMAG at Statistics, University of Montpellier, France

👨‍🎓He remarkable academic journey, extensive research contributions, and dedication to the field of psychology are truly commendable. Your wealth of knowledge and diverse skill set reflect a deep commitment to understanding and addressing critical issues such as bullying, inclusion, and socialization.

🔬 He successful completion of a PhD in Psychology, along with the numerous advanced courses and workshops, showcases your continuous pursuit of excellence and expertise in your field.

🏆 The awards and recognitions, including the First Place in the Poster Award at the University of Stavanger, underscore the impact of your research and the high regard it holds in the academic community.

Professional Profiles:

👩‍🏫 Work Experience:

  • 2015–Present: Assistant Professor, University of Montpellier.
  • 2013–2015: A.T.E.R., University of Montpellier.

📚 Education:

  • 2010–2013: PhD in Biostatistics, University of Montpellier.
  • 2009–2010: Master of Probability and Statistics, University of Bordeaux.
  • 2008–2009: C.A.P.E.S. of Mathematics.
  • 2006–2008: Master of Fundamental Mathematics, University of Bordeaux.

🎓 PhD Thesis Title:

A new GLM framework for analyzing categorical data; application to plant structure and development.

👩‍🏫 Supervisors:

Yann Guédon & Catherine Trottier.

💻 Computer Skills:

Basic C++, Intermediate Python, R, LATEX, OpenOffice, Linux, Microsoft Windows.

Conferences:

  • 2023: Processus markoviens, semi-markoviens et leurs applications (Montpellier, France).
  • 2019: 12th International Conference on Computational and Methodological Statistics (London, UK).
  • 2015: 30th International Workshop on Statistical Modelling (Linz, Austria).
  • 2016: 46ème Journée de Statistique (Rennes, France).
  • 2013: 28th International Workshop on Statistical Modelling (Palermo, Italy).
  • 7th International Conference on Functional-Structural Plant Models (Saariselka, Finland).
  • 2012: 44ème Journée de Statistique (Bruxelles, Belgium).

Publications:

J. Peyhardi, C. Trottier, Y. Guédon. “A new specification of generalized linear models for categorical responses.” Biometrika 102 (4), 889-906. (2015) – Citations: 32

JB. Durand, B. Guitton, J. Peyhardi, Y. Holtz, Y. Guédon, C. Trottier, E. Costes. “New insights for estimating the genetic value of segregating apple progenies for irregular bearing during the first years of tree production.” Journal of experimental botany 64 (16), 5099-5113. (2013) – Citations: 30

A. Barbieri, J. Peyhardi, T. Conroy, S. Gourgou, C. Lavergne, C. Mollevi. “Item response models for the longitudinal analysis of health-related quality of life in cancer clinical trials.” BMC medical research methodology 17, 1-13. (2017) – Citations: 18

H. Bouscasse, I. Joly, J. Peyhardi. “A new family of qualitative choice models: An application of reference models to travel mode choice.” Transportation Research Part B: Methodological 121, 74-91. (2019) – Citations: 15

J. Peyhardi, Y. Caraglio, E. Costes, PÉ. Lauri, C. Trottier, Y. Guédon. “Integrative models for joint analysis of shoot growth and branching patterns.” New Phytologist 216 (4), 1291-1304. (2017) – Citations: 13