Jin Yong Hong | Behavioral Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jin Yong Hong | Behavioral Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jin Yong Hong,  Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine,  South Korea.

Dr. Jin Yong Hong, MD, PhD, is a distinguished neurologist and academic leader with a career grounded in excellence, innovation, and service. Beginning his medical education at Yonsei University, he steadily advanced through rigorous academic and clinical pathways to become an Associate Professor at Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine. His focused expertise in movement disorders and dementia, enriched by both national and international research experience, especially at the University of Pennsylvania, highlights his dedication to solving complex neurological diseases. Through teaching, research, and clinical practice, he has significantly contributed to the growth of neuroscience and medical education in South Korea.

 

Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Jin Yong Hong embarked on his journey in medicine with a deep commitment to academic excellence, beginning with his premedical studies at Yonsei University in Seoul from 2001 to 2003. He swiftly advanced through the rigorous medical curriculum, earning a Bachelor of Medical Science in 2007. Not content with just clinical practice, he pursued higher education with a Master of Medical Science completed in 2014 and culminated his scholarly journey with a Doctorate in Medical Science from the same esteemed institution in 2021. His academic path reflects a relentless pursuit of knowledge in the neurological sciences and a strong foundation in research methodology and clinical application.

🧠 Professional Endeavors in Neurology

Following his graduation, Dr. Hong immersed himself in hands-on clinical training, beginning with an internship and residency in Neurology at the renowned Severance Hospital of the Yonsei University Health System. This period, from 2007 to 2012, was marked by rigorous clinical immersion and specialization. His passion for neuroscience led him to pursue subspecialty training in Movement Disorders and Dementia, completing both clinical and research fellowships. Notably, he expanded his research exposure internationally through a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania in the United States from 2022 to 2024, further enriching his expertise in neurodegenerative pathology and laboratory medicine.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Hong’s research has consistently revolved around movement disorders and dementia, placing him at the forefront of understanding neurodegenerative diseases. His clinical experience, paired with extensive research work in both Korea and the United States, underscores his commitment to unraveling the complexities of disorders like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and related cognitive impairments. His interdisciplinary approach bridges clinical neurology with translational science, contributing significantly to advancing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in the field.

🏥 Academic Leadership and Teaching

As an Associate Professor at the Department of Neurology, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Dr. Hong plays a vital role in shaping the next generation of neurologists. Since 2016, he has not only led clinical initiatives but also mentored students and junior faculty. His previous tenure as a Clinical Assistant Professor from 2014 to 2016 helped lay the groundwork for a collaborative and research-driven academic environment at the Wonju Severance Christian Hospital. His academic roles have helped blend clinical excellence with cutting-edge research in one of Korea’s premier medical institutions.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Dr. Hong’s excellence has been consistently recognized by peers and institutions alike. In 2014, he received the Academic Award for Highest Achievement from Yonsei University College of Medicine, marking him as a top-tier scholar among his peers. The same year, he was awarded a Fellowship by the Korean Movement Disorder Society, acknowledging his promising contributions to the field. Further cementing his role as a leading voice in neurological research, he was honored in 2021 with the JMD Article Award, reflecting the impact and relevance of his scholarly publications.

🌍 Impact and Influence in Neurological Science

With active memberships in the Korean Neurological Association, the Korean Movement Disorder Society, and the Korean Dementia Association, Dr. Hong maintains an influential presence within the scientific community. His cross-continental experience, especially through his postdoctoral work in the United States, has positioned him as a bridge between Eastern and Western neurological research paradigms. His publications and ongoing collaborations continue to influence both clinical practice and academic discourse, especially in the diagnosis and management of neurodegenerative conditions.

🌟 Legacy and Future Contributions

Looking ahead, Dr. Jin Yong Hong is poised to continue making groundbreaking contributions in the field of neurology. With a career marked by academic distinction, clinical expertise, and research innovation, he represents a model of holistic excellence in medicine. His future work is likely to delve deeper into translational neuroscience, aiming to develop practical solutions for patients suffering from movement and cognitive disorders. As a mentor, researcher, and clinician, Dr. Hong is building a legacy that will inspire and influence the medical community for years to come.

Publication

  • Neuroanatomical substrates of visual hallucinations in patients with non-demented Parkinson’s disease
    S Shin, JE Lee, JY Hong, MK Sunwoo, YH Sohn, PH Lee
    2012

 

  • Presynaptic dopamine depletion predicts levodopa-induced dyskinesia in de novo Parkinson disease
    JY Hong, JS Oh, I Lee, MK Sunwoo, JH Ham, JE Lee, YH Sohn, JS Kim, …
    2014

 

  • The MMSE and MoCA for screening cognitive impairment in less educated patients with Parkinson’s disease
    JI Kim, MK Sunwoo, YH Sohn, PH Lee, JY Hong
    2016

 

  • The burden of white matter hyperintensities is a predictor of progressive mild cognitive impairment in patients with Parkinson’s disease
    MK Sunwoo, S Jeon, JH Ham, JY Hong, JE Lee, JM Lee, YH Sohn, …
    2014

 

  • Cerebral microbleeds in patients with Parkinson’s disease
    JH Ham, H Yi, MK Sunwoo, JY Hong, YH Sohn, PH Lee
    2014

 

  • Subjective cognitive decline predicts future deterioration in cognitively normal patients with Parkinson’s disease
    JY Hong, MK Sunwoo, SJ Chung, JH Ham, JE Lee, YH Sohn, PH Lee
    2014

 

  • Clinical and biomarker characteristics according to clinical spectrum of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in the validation cohort of Korean Brain Aging Study for the Early Diagnosis …
    J Hwang, JH Jeong, SJ Yoon, KW Park, EJ Kim, B Yoon, JW Jang, HJ Kim, …
    2019

 

  • Subjective cognitive complaints and objective cognitive impairment in Parkinson’s disease
    JY Hong, Y Lee, MK Sunwoo, YH Sohn, PH Lee
    2018

 

  • Neurocognitive and atrophic patterns in Parkinson’s disease based on subjective memory complaints
    JY Hong, JE Lee, YH Sohn, PH Lee
    2012

 

  • Telomere shortening reflecting physical aging is associated with cognitive decline and dementia conversion in mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer’s disease
    SH Koh, SH Choi, JH Jeong, JW Jang, KW Park, EJ Kim, HJ Kim, JY Hong, …
    2020

 

🧾 Conclusion

Dr. Hong’s journey illustrates the profound impact one dedicated individual can make within the scientific and medical communities. His legacy is already evident in his scholarly achievements, the students he mentors, and the patients he serves. As he continues to advance the understanding and treatment of neurological conditions, Dr. Hong remains a beacon of academic integrity, scientific rigor, and compassionate care. His future promises continued breakthroughs that will shape the field of neurology and bring hope to countless lives affected by neurodegenerative disorders.

Ishrat Yousaf | Developmental Psychopathology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. prof. Dr. Ishrat Yousaf | Developmental Psychopathology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ishrat Yousaf,  Capital University of Science & Technology, Islamabad,  Pakistan.

Dr. Ishrat Yousaf is a pioneering psychologist and academic with over eight years of experience in higher education. Her Ph.D. research broke new ground in Pakistan by addressing mental health, suicide risk, and social functioning among individuals with HIV/AIDS. As an Associate Professor at Capital University of Science & Technology, she blends clinical insight with research-driven practices. Her expertise includes psychological assessment, cognitive behavioral therapy, and the cross-cultural validation of psychological tools. Dr. Yousaf has led several HEC-funded projects targeting youth mental health and has presented her work on international platforms. Her contributions continue to shape the fields of applied and clinical psychology in both local and global contexts.

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Ishrat Yousaf began her academic journey with a strong foundation in Clinical Psychology, earning her M.Sc. from the University of Peshawar after completing a Bachelor of Science from the College of Home Economics. Her academic excellence and curiosity about human behavior led her to pursue a Ph.D. in Psychology at the University of Peshawar. Her doctoral research was groundbreaking—marking the first in Pakistan to explore the psychological disorders, suicide risk, and social functioning among individuals living with HIV/AIDS. This pioneering study laid the foundation for her future academic and clinical endeavors in public mental health.

👩‍🏫 Professional Endeavors

With more than eight years of experience in academia, Dr. Yousaf has served in key academic roles, most notably as Assistant Professor and now as Associate Professor at Capital University of Science & Technology (CUST), Islamabad. Her role involves teaching, mentoring, and supervising students in various psychological disciplines, particularly in Applied and Clinical Psychology. She is deeply involved in developing curricula, designing intervention models, and leading institutional projects that merge psychological research with community outreach.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Yousaf’s research spans a wide spectrum within clinical and applied psychology. She has conducted significant work on mental health in marginalized populations, such as individuals with HIV/AIDS and youth with substance use disorders. Her work also includes cross-cultural adaptation and validation of psychological tests and developing indigenous interventions using cognitive behavioral therapy. As Principal and Co-Principal Investigator, she has led numerous projects funded by the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, targeting depression, anxiety, and mental wellness among youth.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her academic career, Dr. Yousaf has received multiple honors and scholarships. She was awarded a competitive Ph.D. scholarship by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan and selected for a Developing Country Scholarship by the 74th International Congress of Psychology in Yokohama, Japan. She has consistently earned research grants based on merit and her demonstrated commitment to mental health advocacy and evidence-based psychological practice.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Yousaf’s work has been published in numerous peer-reviewed international journals, adding valuable insights to the fields of clinical psychology and public mental health. Her research has not only contributed to the academic body of knowledge but also informed policy and practice in mental health services in Pakistan. She has participated in and presented at both national and international conferences, enhancing the global discourse on HIV/AIDS, youth mental health, and psychological resilience.

🔬 Legacy and Future Contributions

With a vision for inclusive and culturally-sensitive mental healthcare, Dr. Yousaf continues to innovate and lead in her field. Her future goals include expanding e-health psychological interventions and furthering indigenous therapy models suited for Pakistani youth. As a mentor and researcher, she is shaping the next generation of clinical psychologists equipped with the tools and cultural understanding necessary for transformative impact.

💡 Research that Heals and Empowers

At the core of Dr. Yousaf’s mission is the belief in psychology as a force for healing, empowerment, and social change. Her focus on vulnerable populations, combined with her clinical expertise, enables her to craft solutions that address the root causes of psychological distress. Her ongoing work is a testament to the powerful intersection of research, empathy, and cultural relevance in building healthier societies.

Publication

  1. Title: Anxiety scale for children with autism spectrum disorders: Translation, cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric evaluation
    Authors: Dr. Ishrat Yousaf, Maryam Khan, Dr. Sabahat Haqqani, Muqqadas Saba
    Year: 2025

 

  1. Title: Depression, Anxiety, Stress And Wellbeing Of Young Psychology Students In Pakistan: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Study
    Authors: Dr. Sabahat Haqqani, Muhammad Naeem, Taqdees Fatima, Noor Ul Sabahat, Dr. Ishrat Yousaf
    Year: 2024

 

  1. Title: Development of Wellness Guide: A Guided Self-Help Indigenous Intervention for Reducing Depression, and Anxiety and Enhancing Wellbeing of Pakistani Youth
    Authors: Ishrat Yousaf, Ishrat Rizwan, Sabahat Haqqani
    Year: 2024

 

  1. Title: Indigenous Conceptualization of Depression and Anxiety: FGDs with Pakistani Youth and Health Practitioners
    Authors: Ishrat Yousaf, Ishrat Rizwan
    Year: 2024

 

  1. Title: Editorial
    Authors: Naeem, B.; Aqeel, M.; Maqsood, A.; Yousaf, I.; Ehsan, S.; Gavrielides, T.
    Year: 2023

 

  1. Title: Psychometric properties of the revised Urdu version dyadic adjustment scale for evaluating marital relationship quality between madrassa and Non-Madrassa married women
    Authors: Naeem, Bushra; Aqeel, Muhammad; Maqsood, Aneela; Yousaf, Ishrat; Ehsan, Saima
    Year: 2023

 

  1. Title: Impact of Procrastination on Self-esteem of College and University Students of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
    Authors: Sana Khurshid, Saima Parwez, Ishrat Yousaf
    Year: 2023

 

  1. Title: HIV Treatment Adherence Self-efficacy Scale for Pakistani HIV/AIDS patients: Translation and psychometric evaluation
    Authors: Yousaf, Ishrat; Haqqani, Sabahat
    Year: 2022

 

  1. Title: The influence of illness perception, anxiety and depression disorders on students mental health during COVID-19 outbreak in Pakistan: a Web-based cross-sectional survey
    Authors: Aqeel, Muhammad; Abbas, Jaffar; Shuja, Kanwar Hamza; Rehna, Tasnim; Ziapour, Arash; Yousaf, Ishrat; Karamat, Tehmina
    Year: 2022

 

  1. Title: Maladaptive schema modes as the predictor of post-traumatic stress disorder among trauma survivors
    Authors: Zaman, S.; Arouj, K.; Irfan, S.; Yousaf, I.
    Year: 2021

🧾 Conclusion

Dr. Ishrat Yousaf’s journey reflects a profound commitment to advancing mental health awareness, especially among vulnerable and underserved populations. Her research, teaching, and therapeutic practices have set new benchmarks in clinical psychology in Pakistan. With a focus on culturally adaptive interventions and youth-centered mental health solutions, she is poised to leave a lasting legacy as both a scholar and a changemaker. Her ongoing dedication ensures that psychology in Pakistan continues to evolve with compassion, relevance, and scientific rigor.