Ali Nouri | Neuroscience & Education | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ali Nouri | Neuroscience & Education | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ali Nouri Malayer, University, Iran.

Dr. Ali Nouri is an accomplished Associate Professor at Malayer University with a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction and postdoctoral training in cognitive science from Lund University. His academic and research journey bridges the fields of curriculum studies and educational neuroscience, focusing on the neurocognitive foundations of learning, instructional design, and educational neurotechnology. With over 50 published journal articles, one major book, and leadership in more than 17 research projects at various levels, Dr. Nouri has played a pivotal role in shaping the emerging field of Educational Neuroscience. He is also the director of a Cognitive Science Laboratory, serves on editorial boards of leading journals, and actively participates in global academic collaborations. His research is highly cited, and he is a recognized figure in both national and international academic communities.

Profile

Google Scholar

šŸŽ“ Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Ali Nouri began his academic journey with a deep curiosity about how humans learn and how education systems can be enhanced through scientific insight. He pursued his Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the prestigious Tarbiat Modares University in 2012, laying a strong theoretical foundation in curriculum studies. His passion for integrating brain science into education led him to undertake a sabbatical training in Cognitive Science at Lund University, Swedenā€”a formative experience that expanded his expertise into interdisciplinary domains, combining educational theory with neuroscience.

šŸ‘Øā€šŸ« Professional Endeavors

Currently serving as an Associate Professor at Malayer University, Dr. Nouri is a committed educator and researcher in the Educational Sciences Department. His professional path includes teaching engagements at the Institute for Cognitive Studies and leadership roles such as directing the Neuroeducation Studies Special Interest Group (SIG) under the Iranian Curriculum Studies Association. His work embodies a hybrid identityā€”as both a curriculum theorist and a neuroscientistā€”bridging pedagogical design and neural science.

šŸ§  Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Nouriā€™s research centers on the neurocognitive foundations of learning, the neuroscientific underpinnings of curriculum, and instructional design. With a visionary approach, he integrates neurotechnology, particularly AI-supported educational tools, into learning environments. Through his work, he seeks to revolutionize how learning is conceptualized and delivered by translating neuroscience insights into practical curriculum strategies. His significant contributions have helped solidify Educational Neuroscience as a legitimate field of academic inquiry and application.

šŸ“š Research Projects and Scholarly Output

Dr. Nouri has successfully led 3 international, 4 national, and 10 institutional-level research projects, highlighting his consistent engagement with innovation and development in neuroeducation. His scholarly record includes over 50 peer-reviewed journal articles, contributions to book publications, and numerous conference papers. His co-authored book, Crossing Mind, Brain, and Education Boundaries (ISBN: 978-1-5275-9075-5), underscores his interdisciplinary outlook. His Google Scholar citation index of 723 and Scopus citations of 78 further reflect the reach and credibility of his academic work.

šŸ§Ŗ Innovation, Collaboration, and Editorial Leadership

In addition to his academic roles, Dr. Nouri has provided consultancy on 8 industry-related projects, underscoring the practical impact of his work. He is also the Principal Investigator and Director of the Cognitive Science Laboratory, fostering collaborative inquiry into educational technologies and brain research. He serves on the editorial boards of leading journals like Dialogic Pedagogy and IJCRSEE, and actively participates in academic discourse through more than 10 international conferences. His affiliations with global bodies like the American Educational Research Association and various national groups reflect his active engagement with the global academic community.

šŸ† Accolades and Recognition

Although Dr. Nouri’s contributions are more reflected in impact than in awards, his roles as a research leader, keynote speaker, and academic collaborator have earned him wide respect within scholarly circles. His ability to cross disciplinary boundaries, innovate teaching strategies, and publish rigorously in reputable outlets places him among the leading voices shaping the field of neuroeducation today.

šŸ”® Legacy and Future Contributions

Dr. Nouri’s academic journey is far from over. His commitment to expanding the field of educational neurotechnologyā€”including AI and brain-computer interfacesā€”promises transformative contributions in years to come. As an educator, researcher, and leader, he is poised to further influence the integration of neuroscience into classroom practice, teacher training, and policy formation. His legacy is likely to be defined by his pioneering work in constructing neuroeducational methodologies, empowering future scholars and practitioners to build a scientifically grounded and cognitively responsive educational system.

Publication

  • Emancipatory Pedagogy in Practice: Aims, Principles and Curriculum Orientation
    A. Nouri, S.M. Sajjadi ā€” 2014

 

  • Defining the Boundaries for Neuroeducation as a Field of Study
    A. Nouri, M. Mehrmohammadi ā€” 2012

 

  • The Basic Principles of Research in Neuroeducation Studies
    A. Nouri ā€” 2016

 

  • Making Neuroscience a Priority in Initial Teacher Education Curricula: A Call for Bridging the Gap Between Research and Future Practices in the Classroom
    A. Sortwell, E. Gkintoni, S. Zagarella, U. Granacher, P. Forte, R. Ferraz, … ā€” 2023

 

  • Expectations of Institutionalized Elderly from Their Children
    A. Nouri, S. Farsi ā€” 2018

 

  • Evaluating What Mind, Brain and Education Has Taught Us
    T. Tokuhama-Espinosa, A. Nouri ā€” 2020

 

  • Foundations of Cognitive Education: Issues and Opportunities
    M. Talkhabi, A. Nouri ā€” 2012

 

  • An Adaptable, Open-Access Test Battery to Study the Fractionation of Executive-Functions in Diverse Populations
    G.A.V. Zanini, M.C. Miranda, H. Cogo-Moreira, A. Nouri, A.L. FernĆ”ndez, … ā€” 2021

 

  • Practical Strategies for Enhancing Interdisciplinary Collaboration in Neuroeducational Studies
    A. Nouri ā€” 2013

 

  • Dialogic Learning: A Social Cognitive Neuroscience View
    A. Nouri ā€” 2014

 

šŸ§¾ Conclusion

Dr. Nouri exemplifies interdisciplinary excellence, combining deep theoretical expertise in curriculum development with cutting-edge insights from cognitive neuroscience. His pioneering work has helped define Educational Neuroscience as both an academic field and a practical discipline. Through ongoing research, leadership, and collaboration, he continues to influence the future of education by integrating brain-based strategies and neurotechnology into learning environments. His legacy is marked by innovation, scholarly rigor, and a visionary commitment to transforming education through science.

Marina Makri | Neuroscience & Education | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Marina Makri | Neuroscience & Education | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Marina Makri, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.

Marina Makri is a multidisciplinary researcher whose academic and professional journey bridges biology, psychotherapy, and neuroscience. With foundational degrees in biological sciences and advanced training in counseling and clinical psychology, she has crafted a unique research identity focused on neurodegenerative diseases, genetic counseling, and caregiver support. Her contributions to numerous Erasmus+ and Horizon 2020 projects demonstrate her expertise in managing international collaborations, developing innovative educational tools, and promoting genetic literacy. Her dedication extends beyond research, as seen in her extensive volunteer work aimed at supporting caregivers and vulnerable populations through inclusive, science-driven initiatives.

Profile

Orcid

šŸŽ“ Early Academic Pursuits

Marina Makri’s academic journey began with a solid foundation in biological sciences. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 2010, followed by a Masterā€™s degree in Biological Sciences, focusing on Ecological Design and Sustainable Development. Her academic curiosity soon led her into the field of mental health and counseling. Between 2014 and 2017, she pursued a Master of Arts in Counseling and Psychotherapy at the University of East London while simultaneously undertaking multiple advanced training programs in clinical diagnosis, child and adolescent psychopathology, and psychological assessment. This multidimensional academic background laid the groundwork for her current doctoral research at the School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, initiated in 2020.

šŸ§  Professional Endeavors in Neurodegenerative Research

Marinaā€™s career reflects her deep commitment to neurological and cognitive health. Her most impactful contributions have emerged from her involvement in numerous EU-funded projects related to Alzheimer’s disease and neurodegenerative conditions. As a Research Associate and Project Manager for Erasmus+ and Horizon 2020 programs, she has played pivotal roles in initiatives like ā€œEnhancing Genetic Knowledge for Neurodegenerative Disorders through Gamification,ā€ ā€œGenetic Counseling in European Universities,ā€ and the internationally recognized ā€œDominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network (DIAN).ā€ These roles showcase her interdisciplinary expertise in genetics, cognitive science, and patient education.

šŸ”¬ Contributions and Research Focus

Marina’s research portfolio is extensive and firmly rooted in supporting vulnerable populations through innovation and empathy. Her work spans cognitive rehabilitation, genetic counseling, and game-based learning for adults with disabilities. A unique blend of scientific inquiry and psychological understanding characterizes her contributions, as seen in projects such as Games4CoSkills and E.L.So.M.C.I., which explore educational and cognitive development through gamification. She is also deeply involved in supporting informal caregivers through initiatives like InfoCARE and S.IN.CA.L.A., contributing to both academic literature and real-world health policy enhancements.

šŸŒ Community Impact and Volunteering

Beyond research, Marina has consistently extended her expertise through volunteering. Her engagement with the Greek Carers Network EPIONI and the Greek Association of Alzheimerā€™s Disease and Related Disorders reflects her commitment to accessible education and support for caregivers. Her initiatives often bridge generations and address the needs of underserved groups, such as women with physical disabilities and at-home caregivers, emphasizing equity and social innovation. Through these projects, she has elevated the voices of informal carers and contributed to a more inclusive healthcare model.

šŸ§¬ Accolades and International Collaborations

Marinaā€™s collaborative work has garnered recognition on both national and European platforms. Her role as a Greek Coordinator for the Washington University-led DIAN study signals her integration into prestigious global research networks. Many of the Erasmus+ projects she has managed or contributed to have been distinguished for their innovation in health education, genetic literacy, and caregiver support. These endeavors reflect not only her organizational excellence but also her scientific credibility and capacity for thought leadership in neuroscience and genetics.

šŸ’” Legacy and Future Contributions

Marina Makri is poised to be a leading figure in integrating mental health, neurogenetics, and public education. With a PhD nearing completion and a decade of hands-on project experience, she stands ready to shape future directions in personalized medicine and cognitive care. Her vision aligns with emerging global prioritiesā€”promoting early detection, democratizing genetic knowledge, and developing engaging tools for lifelong learning and mental resilience.

šŸŒŸ Influence and Inspiration

Marinaā€™s multifaceted career has left a meaningful imprint on the fields of neuroscience, psychology, and community health. Her synthesis of biology, psychotherapy, and digital innovation serves as an inspiring model for young researchers seeking to make a societal impact through science. By harmonizing rigorous academic research with compassionate care, she continues to influence both clinical practices and educational frameworksā€”contributing to a future where science and humanity go hand in hand.

publication

Title: Interventions for Caregivers of People with Dementia in Greece
Author: Marina Makri
Year: 2017

 

šŸ Conclusion

Marina Makri exemplifies the modern researcher who not only advances scientific knowledge but also ensures it reaches and benefits the wider community. Her work in genetics, cognitive health, and caregiver education underscores a commitment to interdisciplinary solutions and social impact. As she completes her PhD, her trajectory suggests continued influence in neurocognitive research, public health education, and inclusive policy developmentā€”making her a promising and impactful leader in the field of neuroscience and health psychology.

Michael Leoncio | Neuroscience & Education | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Michael Leoncio | Neuroscience & Education | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Michael Leoncio, NIcklaus Childrne’s Hospital, United States.

Dr. Michael Leoncio is a dedicated pediatric critical care physician whose academic and professional journey reflects a deep passion for child health. Beginning with a dual degree in Chemistry and Physical Therapy, he went on to earn his D.O. from the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine. His clinical training took him from a pediatric residency in New Jersey to specialized fellowships at Miami Childrenā€™s Hospital, focusing on both general and cardiac pediatric critical care. Throughout his career, Dr. Leoncio has made significant contributions in the high-intensity environment of pediatric ICUs, shaping protocols, mentoring new clinicians, and improving outcomes for countless children.

Profile

Orcid

šŸŽ“ Early Academic Pursuits

Born in Hialeah, Florida, Dr. Michael Leoncio’s educational journey began with a strong dual foundation in Chemistry and Physical Therapy at the University of Miami, where he earned both his BHS and BA degrees. Driven by a passion for healing and science, he advanced to the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine, obtaining his Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.) in 2004. These formative years were marked by his unwavering dedication to medicine and a growing interest in pediatric health, setting the stage for his future specialization in pediatric critical care.

šŸ„ Professional Endeavors

Following medical school, Dr. Leoncio completed a pediatric internship and residency at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center in New Jersey. His experiences under the mentorship of Dr. Josh Rosenblatt solidified his commitment to caring for children facing complex health challenges. He then pursued advanced fellowship training in Pediatric Critical Care Medicine from July 2007 to June 2010 at Miami Childrenā€™s Hospital, under Dr. Balaganghadar Totapally. Continuing his pursuit of excellence, he further specialized with an additional year as a Clinical Fellow in Pediatric Cardiac Critical Care Medicine, guided by Dr. Anthony Rossi. These rigorous training years provided Dr. Leoncio with extensive hands-on experience in managing critically ill children with cardiac conditions.

šŸ”¬ Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Leoncioā€™s fellowship years were not only defined by clinical mastery but also by his engagement in cutting-edge pediatric and cardiac intensive care research. Working within high-acuity settings, he contributed to innovations in the care of neonates and children requiring intensive monitoring and support. His clinical insights have contributed to protocol advancements in cardiac intensive care, especially in the nuanced management of post-operative pediatric patients.

šŸ… Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his academic and professional career, Dr. Leoncio has garnered recognition for his commitment to compassionate, evidence-based care. His peers and mentors have consistently praised his diligence, leadership qualities, and dedication to the field of pediatric critical care. These commendations reflect not only his technical expertise but also his empathetic approach to both patients and their families during the most vulnerable times.

Publication

  • Prevalence of Arginine Vasopressin Deficiency among Children and Adolescents Declared Dead by Neurologic Criteria
    Cesar Esteban Larancuent; Valandrea Merilan; Michael Leoncio; Juan Manuel Lozano; Balagangadhar R. Totapally | 2025

 

  • Epidemiology and outcomes of children with accidental hypothermia: A propensity-matched study
    Totapally A; Leoncio M; Beltramo F; Keith Meyer; Raszynski A; Totapally BR | 2017

 

  • Serial cardiac troponin concentrations as marker of cardiac toxicity in children with status asthmaticus treated with intravenous terbutaline
    Kalyanaraman M; Bhalala U; Leoncio M | 2011

 

  • Therapeutic hypercapnia enhances the inflammatory response to endotoxin in the lung of spontaneously breathing rats
    Norozian FM; Leoncio M; Torbati D; Keith Meyer; Raszynski A; Totapally BR | 2011

 

šŸ Conclusion

Driven by compassion, expertise, and a vision for innovation, Dr. Leoncio stands as a beacon in the field of pediatric medicine. His commitment to critical care continues to inspire those around him and set new standards for excellence in child health. As he looks to the future, his ongoing efforts promise to elevate pediatric intensive careā€”ensuring that every child, no matter how critically ill, receives the best possible chance at recovery and life.