Wisal Zafar | AI in Healthcare | Data Scientist of the Year Award

Mr. Wisal Zafar | AI in Healthcare | Data Scientist of the Year Award

Lecturer at Cecos University of IT and Emerging Sciences, Pakistan

Wisal Zafar is a dynamic academic and research-oriented professional whose expertise lies at the intersection of data science, artificial intelligence, and deep learning. With a strong foundation in software engineering, he has progressively transitioned into data-centric domains where he now actively contributes as a lecturer, researcher, and data scientist. His work integrates modern machine learning techniques and neural networks to tackle real-world problems ranging from healthcare to education. His career is marked by a drive to foster innovation through technology, an unwavering commitment to academic excellence, and a passion for nurturing student potential in both undergraduate and postgraduate settings.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Wisal’s academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering from Iqra National University, Peshawar, completed in 2020 with a commendable CGPA of 3.47/4.00. Building on this strong foundation, he pursued a Master of Science in Software Engineering at the same university, expected to be completed by mid-2024, where he currently holds a CGPA of 3.50/4.00. His academic record reflects a consistent pursuit of knowledge and skill advancement in software technologies, deep learning, and data analysis. Prior to his university education, he completed his Intermediate from Capital Degree College and matriculation from The Jamrud Model High School with notable academic performances.

Experience

Professionally, Wisal has held several key positions in academia and data processing. He is currently serving as a Lecturer at CECOS University of IT and Emerging Sciences, Peshawar, where he imparts advanced-level knowledge in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Machine Learning. Before this, he contributed significantly to Iqra National University both as a Lecturer and as an EDP Officer, where he oversaw electronic data processing and optimized data accessibility across research and academic projects. His roles have consistently involved not only teaching but also mentorship, particularly in guiding final-year students through research and development of innovative software solutions. His earlier professional engagements also include roles as a Junior Web Developer and teaching positions, showcasing a diverse skill set in both educational and technical domains.

Research Interests

Wisal’s research interests are rooted in the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning to critical societal challenges. His work spans brain tumor detection, plant disease classification, emotion recognition in educational settings, and mental health analysis using social media data. He is particularly intrigued by hybrid deep learning architectures, transformer-based models, and neural networks. He consistently integrates image processing techniques and NLP tools to build intelligent, data-driven solutions. His recent focus includes real-time decision support systems, content-based image retrieval, and multi-scale classification, which have promising implications for both healthcare and education systems.

Awards

In recognition of his exceptional contribution to the academic and technical environment, Wisal was honored with the “Best Employee of the Year 2023” award at Iqra National University. This accolade acknowledges his consistent performance, innovative approach to teaching and research, and his ability to blend administrative responsibilities with cutting-edge academic delivery. His recognition serves as a testament to his dedication, collaborative spirit, and leadership potential in the academic research community.

Publications

Wisal has made significant scholarly contributions, with several research publications in high-impact international journals. His paper “Enhanced TumorNet: Leveraging YOLOv8s and U-Net for Superior Brain Tumor Detection and Segmentation Utilizing MRI Scans” was published in Results in Engineering (2024) and is cited for its innovative approach to medical imaging using hybrid models. Another influential work, “Revolutionizing Diabetes Diagnosis: Machine Learning Techniques Unleashed”, appeared in MDPI-Healthcare (2023) and explores diagnostic modeling using AI techniques. His third publication, “A Survey on Big Data Analytics (BDA) Implementation and Practices in Medical Libraries of Punjab”, published in the Journal of Computing & Biomedical Informatics (2023), provides insights into the integration of BDA in healthcare information systems. These publications highlight his range—from healthcare diagnostics to knowledge systems—and his adaptability in multiple AI-driven domains.

Conclusion

Wisal Zafar stands out as a highly motivated data scientist and academician with a clear vision for the future of AI and its applications. Through his diverse academic background, hands-on teaching experience, impactful research, and recognized contributions to institutional growth, he exemplifies the qualities of an innovative thinker and dedicated professional. His continued exploration of deep learning and intelligent systems is not only enriching the academic field but also paving the way for practical solutions to societal challenges. With a growing portfolio of research and a keen eye for technological advancements, Wisal is well-poised to make long-term contributions to AI-based research and higher education. His career trajectory illustrates a seamless blend of academic rigor, technical skill, and research excellence.

Neeraj Thakur | AI in Healthcare | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Neeraj Thakur | AI in Healthcare | Best Researcher Award

Postdoctoral Fellow at University of Oklahoma Health Sciences, United States

Dr. Neeraj S. Thakur, currently a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center (OUHSC), is a highly motivated researcher specializing in drug delivery systems, theranostic platforms, and AI-based approaches for developing novel diagnostics and treatments. With over a decade of international research experience spanning the USA, Europe, and Asia, Dr. Thakur has led multiple projects related to nanomaterial design, formulation development, and the synthesis of advanced drug delivery systems for treating diseases like cancer and infections. His expertise extends to both small molecules and large biomolecules, utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as polymeric and lipid nanoparticles. He has an extensive publication record with 29 papers, five patents, six book chapters, and significant contributions to the field.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Thakur earned his Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Technology (Biotechnology) from the National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Mohali, India, where his research focused on the development of nanoparticle-based fluorescent probes for biomedical applications. He also holds an M.Tech in Pharmaceutical Technology (Biotechnology) from NIPER, Mohali, where he was the class topper, and a B.Pharm degree from Shri G.S. Institute of Technology and Science, Indore. Additionally, he is pursuing a Certificate in Data Science and Machine Learning from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Experience

Dr. Thakur has held significant roles in various research institutions. As a Postdoctoral Fellow at OUHSC, he established research laboratories and led projects on nanomaterial development for drug delivery systems targeting multiple applications, including inner ear and ocular delivery. Prior to this, he worked at the University of Geneva, Switzerland, where he developed hybrid micelle formulations for transdermal delivery and designed iontophoretic devices. He also contributed to the Center of Innovative and Applied Bioprocessing (CIAB), India, where he led the development of topical drug delivery systems and was involved in several patent filings. These experiences have honed his skills in formulation and analytical development, laboratory management, and industrial collaboration.

Research Interests

Dr. Thakur’s research interests focus on the development of advanced drug delivery systems, particularly using nanomaterials such as polymeric and lipid nanoparticles. His work aims to improve the therapeutic efficacy of drugs by enhancing their delivery to specific sites in the body, such as the inner ear, ocular tissues, and tumors. He is also dedicated to the integration of AI-based approaches for optimizing drug delivery design, ensuring more precise treatments for conditions like cancer and ototoxicity. His passion extends to the creation of theranostic platforms for early disease diagnosis and personalized medicine.

Awards

Throughout his career, Dr. Thakur has received numerous accolades for his contributions to pharmaceutical sciences. Notable among them are the John B. Bruce Scholarship Award (2024), the Best Abstract Award at AAPS Pharm360 (2023), and the prestigious Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship (2020-2021). His earlier achievements include the DST-INSPIRE and CSIR Research Fellowships, which are awarded to the top 1% of students in India. These recognitions underscore his impact on the scientific community and his leadership in advancing pharmaceutical research.

Publications

Dr. Thakur has authored 29 peer-reviewed papers, with some of his recent work focused on innovative drug delivery systems. Key publications include:

Thakur, N.S., et al., “Crosslinked Hybrid Nanoparticle Embedded in Thermogel For Sustained Co-Delivery to Inner Ear,” Journal of Nanobiotechnology, 2024.

Thakur, N.S., et al., “Progress and Promise of Photoresponsive Nanocarriers for Precision Drug Delivery in Cancer,” Journal of Photochemistry & Photobiology C: Photochemistry Reviews, 2024.

Thakur, N.S., et al., “Dual Stimuli-Responsive and Sustained Drug Delivery Nanosensogel for Prevention of Cisplatin-Induced Ototoxicity,” Journal of Controlled Release, 2024.

Paul, S., et al., “Co-Administration of Chemo-Phototherapeutic Loaded Lignin Nanoarchitecture for Skin Cancer and Bacterial Infections,” ACS Applied Nano Materials, 2024.

Kumar, S., et al., “Bioengineered Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Based Biosensors and Applications,” Sensors and Diagnostics, 2023. These works, which cover nanomedicine, drug delivery, and nanomaterial innovation, have significantly contributed to the field of pharmaceutical sciences and have been widely cited.

Conclusion

Dr. Neeraj S. Thakur’s multifaceted career highlights his dedication to advancing pharmaceutical research through innovation in nanotechnology and drug delivery systems. His profound knowledge in both academic and industrial settings, along with his leadership in driving collaborative research projects, continues to position him as a key figure in his field. With a focus on precision medicine, AI-based design, and the development of targeted therapies, Dr. Thakur is making remarkable strides toward improving patient outcomes and advancing the future of drug delivery and diagnostics.

Abu Sarwar Zamani | AI in Healthcare | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Abu Sarwar Zamani | AI in Healthcare | Best Researcher Award 

Asst. Professor | Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University | Saudi Arabia

Dr. Abu Sarwar Zamani is a dedicated and disciplined academic and research professional with over 15 years of experience. Specializing in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Deep Learning, Data Mining, and the Internet of Things (IoT), he has made significant contributions in both the academic and research fields. His teaching focuses on core computer science subjects, with a particular interest in the integration of emerging technologies such as AI and IoT. His professional journey reflects a passion for knowledge sharing and innovative research, contributing to scientific advancements in computer science and technology. Currently, he serves as an Assistant Professor at Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia, while also working as a Post-Doctoral Fellow at the International Islamic University Malaysia.

Profile

Scholar

Education

Dr. Zamani’s academic foundation includes a Ph.D. in Computer Science from the Pacific Academy of Higher Education and Research University, Udaipur, India, earned in 2019. Prior to his doctorate, he completed a Master of Philosophy in Computer Science (2009) from Vinayak Mission University, Chennai, and a Master of Science in Computer Science (2007) from Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi. His undergraduate studies were in Computer Applications at MCRP, Bhopal, India (2002). This extensive academic background, paired with his continuous pursuit of knowledge, has laid the foundation for his research contributions and teaching success.

Experience

Dr. Zamani has held various academic positions throughout his career. He is currently an Assistant Professor in the Department of Computer Science at Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University in Saudi Arabia, a position he has held since August 2020. In addition to his teaching role, Dr. Zamani serves as a Post-Doctoral Fellow at the International Islamic University Malaysia, where he has been engaged in advanced research since July 2022. Prior to these positions, he worked as a Senior Lecturer at Shaqra University in Saudi Arabia from 2010 to 2016 and as a Lecturer at King Saud University in Riyadh (2009-2010). His academic career began as a Lecturer at Ibne Seena Pharmacy College in India (2007-2009). Over the years, Dr. Zamani has contributed significantly to both the academic and administrative frameworks of these institutions, including curriculum development and research committees.

Research Interests

Dr. Zamani’s research interests lie primarily in AI, ML, Deep Learning, Data Mining, IoT, and their applications in various domains. His work focuses on leveraging machine learning techniques to develop predictive models for healthcare, cybersecurity, and educational services. He has also researched IoT-based systems, contributing to advancements in real-time data analytics for improved decision-making and optimization of resources. His research has garnered attention in areas like automated disease detection, smart health monitoring, and the design of secure and efficient systems for IoT networks.

Awards

Dr. Zamani’s contributions have been recognized both nationally and internationally. He has been granted three international patents from India and Australia, further solidifying his standing as an innovator in the fields of machine learning and IoT-based systems. His patents cover key areas such as machine learning-based prediction systems for heart disease and systems for improving educational services. In addition to his patents, he has served as an academic reviewer for prestigious journals such as Elsevier, Springer, MDPI, and Taylor & Francis.

Publications

Dr. Zamani has published more than 100 papers in SCI, PubMed, and Scopus-indexed journals, as well as two conference papers. Some of his significant publications include:

Zamani, A. S., et al. “Implementation of machine learning techniques with big data and IoT to create effective prediction models for health informatics.” Biomedical Signal Processing and Control, 2024, Elsevier, DOI: 10.1016/j.bspc.2024.106247.

Zamani, A. S., et al. “The Prediction of Sleep Quality using Wearable-assisted Smart Health Monitoring System based on Statistical Data.” Journal of King Saud University-Science, 2023, Elsevier, DOI: 10.1016/j.jksus.2023.102927.

Zamani, A. S., et al. “Machine Learning Techniques for Automated and Early Detection of Brain Tumor.” International Journal of Next-Generation Computing, 2022, Perpetual Innovation, DOI: 10.47164/ijngc.v13i3.711.

Zamani, A. S., et al. “Cloud Network Design and Requirements for the Virtualization System for IoT Networks.” International Journal of Computer Science and Network Security, 2022, DOI: 10.22937/IJCSNS.2022.22.11.101.

Zamani, A. S., et al. “Towards Applicability of Information Communication Technologies in Automated Disease Detection.” International Journal of Next-Generation Computing, 2022, Perpetual Innovation, DOI: 10.47164/ijngc.v13i3.705.

Akhtar, M. M., Zamani, A. S., et al. “Stock Market Prediction Based on Statistical Data Using Machine Learning Algorithm.” Journal of King Saud University-Science, 2022, Elsevier, DOI: 10.1016/j.jksus.2022.101940.

Prasad, V. D. P., Zamani, A. S., et al. “Computational Technique Based on Machine Learning and Image Processing for Medical Image Analysis of Breast Cancer Diagnosis.” Security and Communication Networks, 2022, Hindawi, DOI: 10.1155/2022/1918379.

Conclusion

Dr. Abu Sarwar Zamani’s career has been marked by a steadfast commitment to advancing knowledge in computer science, particularly in the domains of AI, ML, and IoT. His extensive experience in both teaching and research has made him a key figure in these fields, with numerous published works and patents to his name. As a dedicated educator and researcher, Dr. Zamani continues to make valuable contributions to the academic community and industry, with a focus on developing innovative solutions for healthcare, cybersecurity, and education. His work exemplifies the intersection of technology and human well-being, ensuring that his research has a lasting impact on society.

Samar Jallad | AI in Healthcare | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Samar Jallad | AI in Healthcare | Best Researcher Award

Assistant professor | AL-Quds University | Palestine

Assist. Prof. Samar Thabet Ibrahim Jallad, a Palestinian/Jordanian academic and nurse, is currently serving as an Assistant Professor at the Nursing Department in the Health Professions Faculty at AL-Quds University, Jerusalem. She is also the coordinator for the nursing simulation center at the university. Dr. Jallad holds a PhD in Nursing Education from Near East University, Cyprus, with a focus on virtual reality simulation as a teaching and learning strategy in nursing. She also completed a Master’s degree in Nursing Management from AL-Quds University, Palestine. Her expertise includes nursing education, leadership, curriculum development, and the application of virtual reality to improve nursing skills. Dr. Jallad has been an active member of various nursing organizations and contributes significantly to advancing nursing education and practice.

Profile

Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Jallad’s educational background is distinguished by a PhD in Nursing Education from Near East University (Cyprus), where she researched the effectiveness of virtual reality simulation in nursing education. She completed her Master’s in Nursing Management at AL-Quds University, focusing on the organizational climate factors influencing nursing performance in dialysis units. Her Bachelor’s degree in Nursing was awarded by Jordan University. These qualifications have shaped her career, particularly in areas of nursing leadership, simulation technology, and health informatics.

Experience

Dr. Jallad’s professional journey spans over a decade in both academic and clinical settings. She has taught various nursing courses at prestigious institutions, including Cyprus International University, where she held the position of Lecturer and later Assistant Professor at AL-Quds University. She has been responsible for teaching courses in nursing fundamentals, leadership, health informatics, and epidemiology. Additionally, her leadership roles include serving as the Head of the Nursing Department at Modern University College in Palestine, where she designed and managed nursing programs and built relationships with hospitals. Dr. Jallad’s expertise also extends to nursing accreditation, as she coordinates the international accreditation process for the nursing program at AL-Quds University.

Research Interests

Dr. Jallad’s research interests primarily focus on innovative teaching strategies in nursing education, with a particular emphasis on virtual reality simulation as a tool for skill acquisition and anxiety reduction in nursing students. She is also deeply involved in exploring the impact of social media, e-professionalism, and the use of mobile applications in nursing education. Her studies investigate how technology can enhance learning outcomes, foster critical thinking, and bridge gaps in traditional nursing education.

Awards and Recognition

Dr. Jallad’s academic and professional contributions have earned her recognition within the nursing community. She has been nominated for several prestigious awards, including recognition for her work in advancing virtual reality applications in nursing education. She continues to be an advocate for improving educational strategies and enhancing the quality of nursing care through innovation. Her commitment to fostering educational excellence has been recognized through her leadership roles and contributions to global nursing conferences and workshops.

Publications

Dr. Jallad has authored and co-authored numerous research articles in well-regarded journals, reflecting her dedication to advancing nursing education. Some notable publications include:

Jallad, S. and Sayej, S. (2016). “Effects of Selected Organizational Climate Factors on Nursing Performance and Patient Satisfaction in Renal Dialysis Units in West Bank Hospitals.” Journal of Health, Medicine and Nursing, 29: 72-86.

Jallad, S.T., & Işık, B. (2021). “The Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Simulation as a Learning Strategy in the Acquisition of Medical Skills in Nursing Education: A Systematic Review.” Irish Journal of Medical Science, 1-20.

Jallad, S.T., & Işık, B. (2021). “The Effectiveness of Virtual Reality Simulation as a Learning Strategy on Acquisition of Ventrogluteal Injection Skill and Anxiety Level.” FOURAGES Journal, 247(8), 31-61.

Işık, B., Özdemir, N., & Jallad, S.T. (2021). “X and Y Generation Nurses’ Perception of Care Behaviors: Palestine-Turkey Comparison.” FOURAGES Journal, 248(10), 50-72.

Jallad, S.T., Alsaqer, K., Ismail, A.I. et al. (2024). “Perceptions of Academic Staff Toward the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) in Clinical Nursing: Assessment Method.” Irish Journal of Medical Science. [DOI: 10.1007/s11845-024-03643-3].

Jallad, S.T., Alsaqer, K., Albadareen, B.I., & Almaghaireh, D. (2024). “Artificial Intelligence Tools Utilized in Nursing Education: Incidence and Associated Factors.” Nurse Education Today, 106355. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nedt.2024.106355].

Jallad, S.T., Natsheh, I., Helo, L.A. et al. (2024). “Nursing Students’ Perceptions, Satisfaction, and Knowledge Toward Utilizing Immersive Virtual Reality Application in Human Anatomy Course: Quasi-Experimental.” BMC Nursing, 23, 601. [DOI: 10.1186/s12912-024-02254-8].

Conclusion

Dr. Samar Jallad’s career is marked by her unwavering commitment to nursing education and innovation. Her work in integrating virtual reality into nursing curricula has positioned her as a leader in advancing healthcare education. Through her research, publications, and teaching, Dr. Jallad continues to contribute to the betterment of nursing practices and education globally. Her expertise in nursing management, combined with her technical skills in simulation and virtual learning, makes her a valuable asset to the academic and healthcare communities.