Aiying Zhang | Computational Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

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Assist. Prof. Dr. Aiying Zhang | Computational Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Aiying Zhang, University of Virginia, United States.

Dr. Aiying Zhang is a rising scholar in the field of mental health data science, currently serving as an Assistant Professor at the University of Virginia and a Faculty Member at the UVA Brain Institute. Her academic foundation spans statistics, biomedical engineering, and clinical biostatistics, acquired from esteemed institutions including USTC, Tulane University, and Columbia University. Her research focuses on developing advanced computational and statistical tools—such as graphical models and multimodal fusion—to decode complex brain data from imaging and genetics. She applies these innovations to better understand and predict psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s disease. Her work is distinguished by its interdisciplinary nature, translational relevance, and potential to reshape clinical approaches to mental health.

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Aiying Zhang’s journey into the realm of data science and mental health research began with a strong foundation in quantitative sciences. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Statistics from the prestigious School for the Gifted Young at the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) in 2014. Driven by a passion for biomedical innovation and its intersection with human health, she pursued a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Tulane University, which she completed in 2021. Her graduate years were marked by deep inquiry into statistical modeling and neuroimaging, laying the groundwork for her later interdisciplinary research. She further honed her expertise through postdoctoral training in Clinical Biostatistics and Psychiatry at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, where she blended statistical rigor with clinical insight.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Zhang is currently an Assistant Professor of Data Science at the University of Virginia, where she has been on the tenure-track faculty since August 2023. She also holds a concurrent position as a Faculty Member at the UVA Brain Institute, underscoring her active role in advancing brain research across institutional boundaries. Prior to her academic appointment at UVA, she served as a Research Scientist II at the New York State Psychiatric Institute, contributing to high-impact psychiatric research. Her professional journey also includes research assistantships at Tulane University and the University of Florida, roles in which she cultivated strong collaborative and translational research skills.

🧠 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Zhang’s research lies at the intersection of data science, neuroscience, and mental health. She specializes in developing advanced statistical and computational methodologies to investigate the biological underpinnings of psychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. Her work prominently features the use of graphical models—both directed and undirected—and machine learning techniques to analyze complex datasets, such as MRI, DTI, fMRI, MEG, and various genomic modalities including SNP and DNA methylation. Her research has contributed to a deeper understanding of conditions like schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s disease, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and anxiety disorders, through the lens of multimodal data fusion and integrative neurogenetics.

🧪 Innovation in Mental Health Data Science

A distinctive hallmark of Dr. Zhang’s scholarship is her innovative application of multimodal fusion techniques to disentangle the complexities of typical and atypical brain development. Her work leverages high-dimensional neuroimaging and genetic data to draw meaningful inferences about mental health trajectories. She is particularly focused on building interpretable models that bridge the gap between data and clinical insight, thereby enabling earlier and more precise diagnostics. By combining machine learning with biomedical expertise, her contributions pave the way for next-generation tools in psychiatry and neuroscience.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her academic and professional trajectory, Dr. Zhang has earned widespread respect for her analytical acumen and interdisciplinary collaborations. Her postdoctoral role at Columbia, a hub for clinical psychiatry and biostatistics, positioned her among leaders in the field and enriched her research portfolio with translational applications. Her selection as faculty at a leading institution like UVA further reflects recognition of her scholarly excellence and her potential to drive future innovations in mental health data science.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Zhang’s work has significant implications for both the scientific community and clinical practice. Her methods empower researchers and clinicians alike to draw meaningful patterns from multimodal datasets, thereby advancing precision psychiatry. Moreover, her collaborative efforts across biomedical engineering, statistics, and clinical disciplines have fostered integrative frameworks that extend beyond academic settings into real-world applications. Her contributions are helping to shape a more data-driven and personalized future in mental health care.

🔮 Legacy and Future Contributions

As she continues her academic journey, Dr. Zhang aims to expand her research frontiers by exploring dynamic brain-behavior associations and improving the interpretability of AI models in clinical contexts. With a commitment to mentorship and open science, she is building a legacy rooted in intellectual rigor, innovation, and societal relevance. Her future contributions are expected to not only deepen our understanding of mental health disorders but also inspire a new generation of data scientists dedicated to neuroscience and human well-being.

Publication

  • Leverage multimodal neuro-imaging and genetics to identify causal relationship between structural and functional connectivity and ADHD with Mendelian randomization
    C Ji, S Lee, S Sequeira, J Jin, A Zhang — 2025

 

  • Integrated brain connectivity analysis with fmri, dti, and smri powered by interpretable graph neural networks
    G Qu, Z Zhou, VD Calhoun, A Zhang, YP Wang — 2025

 

  • Altered hierarchical rank in intrinsic neural time-scales in autism spectrum disorder
    A Solomon, W Yu, J Rasero, A Zhang — 2025

 

  • A Privacy-Preserving Domain Adversarial Federated learning for multi-site brain functional connectivity analysis
    Y Zhang, L Wang, KJ Su, A Zhang, H Zhu, X Liu, H Shen, VD Calhoun, … — 2025

 

  • A Novel GNN Framework Integrating Neuroimaging and Behavioral Information to Understand Adolescent Psychiatric Disorders
    W Yu, G Qu, Y Kim, L Xu, A Zhang — 2025

 

  • A Bayesian incorporated linear non-Gaussian acyclic model for multiple directed graph estimation to study brain emotion circuit development in adolescence
    A Zhang, G Zhang, B Cai, TW Wilson, JM Stephen, VD Calhoun, YP Wang — 2024

 

  • Exploring hierarchical gradients of intrinsic neural timescales in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease
    A Zhang, K Wengler, X Zhu, G Horga, TE Goldberg, S Lee — 2024

 

  • Time‐varying dynamic Bayesian network learning for an fMRI study of emotion processing
    L Sun, A Zhang, F Liang — 2024

 

  • Altered hierarchical gradients of intrinsic neural timescales in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease
    A Zhang, K Wengler, X Zhu, G Horga, TE Goldberg, S Lee, … — 2024

 

  • Associations Between Brain Connectivity and Psychiatric Symptoms in Children: Insights into Adolescent Mental Health
    D Mutu, K Ji, X He, S Lee, S Sequeira, A Zhang — 2024

 

🧾 Conclusion

Dr. Zhang’s journey exemplifies a seamless integration of data science and neuroscience to address pressing mental health challenges. Her innovative use of multimodal data and machine learning not only contributes to scientific advancement but also enhances real-world clinical decision-making. As she continues to pioneer research at the intersection of computation and psychiatry, her influence is poised to grow, shaping the future of precision mental health care and empowering both academia and clinical practice through data-driven insights.

 

İlyas UÇAR | Neuroimaging | Trailblazer in Neuroscience Award

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Assoc.Prof.Dr. Ilyas UÇAR | Neuroimaging | Trailblazer in Neuroscience Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ilyas UÇAR,  Erciyes University, Turkey.

İlyas Uçar is a dedicated academic and researcher specializing in anatomical sciences, particularly in developmental anatomy and teratology. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, followed by a Master’s and Ph.D. in Anatomy (Medicine) from Erciyes University. His research has focused on the effects of pharmaceutical agents such as Interferon and Paracetamol on embryonic and fetal development, shedding light on critical concerns regarding drug safety during pregnancy. As an Associate Professor, he has contributed to academia through teaching, mentorship, and interdisciplinary research, earning recognition for his impactful work. His studies have influenced medical guidelines and inspired  further research into prenatal health.

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📚 Early Academic Pursuits

İlyas Uçar embarked on his academic journey with a deep-rooted interest in health sciences, particularly in the intricate mechanisms of human anatomy. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation from Abant İzzet Baysal University in 2007, where he developed a strong foundation in musculoskeletal function and rehabilitation techniques. His passion for understanding the human body at a deeper level led him to pursue postgraduate studies, marking the beginning of an extensive academic exploration.

His pursuit of higher education continued at Erciyes University, where he completed his Master’s degree in Anatomy (Medicine) in 2014. Under the guidance of Doç. Dr. Tolga Ertekin, he conducted groundbreaking research on the effects of Interferon beta-1a (IFNβ-1A) and Interferon beta-1b (IFNβ-1B) on in vitro embryonic development. This study not only refined his expertise in developmental anatomy but also set the stage for his future contributions to teratology and embryological research.

🏥 Professional Endeavors

With a strong academic foundation, İlyas Uçar transitioned into professional academia, where he merged his passion for teaching with his commitment to scientific discovery. His doctoral studies at Erciyes University’s Institute of Health Sciences were a significant milestone, culminating in his Ph.D. in Anatomy (Medicine) in 2018. His dissertation, supervised by Prof. Dr. Erdoğan Unur, explored the potential teratogenic effects of paracetamol on fetal bone development, shedding light on critical concerns regarding prenatal medication exposure.

Following his doctoral achievements, he took on an active role in academia, mentoring students and engaging in interdisciplinary research. His teaching methods, rooted in both theoretical knowledge and practical application, have made a lasting impact on students specializing in anatomy and health sciences.

🔬 Contributions and Research Focus

İlyas Uçar’s research focuses on developmental anatomy, particularly the impact of pharmaceutical agents on embryonic and fetal growth. His studies on interferons and paracetamol have contributed valuable insights into the possible risks associated with commonly used medications during pregnancy. Through meticulous experimental methodologies, he has explored the implications of these substances on skeletal formation, paving the way for further advancements in medical safety guidelines.

In addition to his work in teratology, he has delved into the broader aspects of anatomical sciences, bridging the gap between clinical applications and fundamental research. His interdisciplinary approach has fostered collaborations with medical professionals, physiologists, and pharmacologists, further enriching the field of health sciences.

🏅 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout his career, İlyas Uçar has earned recognition for his dedication to research and education. His scholarly contributions have been acknowledged in scientific circles, with his research findings being cited in academic discussions on embryology and anatomy. His work has not only contributed to medical literature but has also influenced guidelines on drug safety during pregnancy.

As an esteemed faculty member, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the academic curriculum, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education in anatomical sciences. His ability to inspire and guide young researchers has cemented his reputation as a mentor and leader in his field.

🌍 Impact and Influence

The influence of İlyas Uçar extends beyond the lecture halls and research laboratories. His findings have raised awareness about the importance of cautious pharmaceutical use during pregnancy, prompting further investigations into the long-term effects of medications on fetal development. His work continues to serve as a reference point for medical researchers, policymakers, and healthcare professionals seeking to enhance patient safety.His collaborations with medical institutions and research centers have facilitated knowledge exchange, ensuring that his discoveries have practical implications in clinical and pharmacological settings. By addressing critical questions in developmental anatomy, he has contributed to the broader understanding of how external factors influence human growth and development.

Publication

  • Effect of respiratory muscle training on pulmonary function and aerobic endurance in soccer players
    T. Ozmen, G.Y. Gunes, I. Ucar, H. Dogan, T.U. Gafuroglu – 2017

 

  • The effect of kinesio taping versus stretching techniques on muscle soreness, and flexibility during recovery from Nordic hamstring exercise
    T. Ozmen, G.Y. Gunes, H. Dogan, I. Ucar, M. Willems – 2017

 

  • The relationship between muscle size, obesity, body fat ratio, pain, and disability in individuals with and without nonspecific low back pain
    I. Ucar, C. Kararti, I. Cüce, E. Veziroğlu, A. Özüdoğru, F.A. Koçak, Y. Dadalı – 2021

 

  • Is scoliosis related to mastication muscle asymmetry and temporomandibular disorders? A cross-sectional study
    I. Ucar, S. Batin, M. Arik, A. Payas, E. Kurtoğlu, C. Kararti, T. Seber, et al. – 2022

 

  • Is the integration problem in the sensorimotor system the cause of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis?
    A. Payas, S. Batin, E. Kurtoğlu, M. Arik, T. Seber, I. Ucar, E. Unur – 2023

 

  • Analysis of changes in brain morphological structure of Taekwondo athletes by diffusion tensor imaging
    E. Kurtoğlu, A. Payas, S. Düz, M. Arik, I. Ucar, T.T. Tokmak, M.F. Erbay, N. Acer, et al. – 2023

 

  • The role of pineal gland volume in the development of scoliosis
    S. Batin, Y. Ekinci, K. Gürbüz, A. Payas, E. Kurtoğlu, I. Ucar, T. Seber, M. Arik, et al. – 2023

 

  • Masseter muscle thickness and elasticity in bruxism after exercise treatment: A comparison trial
    I. Ucar, C. Kararti, Y. Dadali, A. Özüdoğru, M. Okçu – 2022

 

  • The potential teratogenic effects of interferon beta-1a and interferon beta-1b on in vitro embryonic development
    I. Ucar, T. Ertekin, M. Nisari, D. Ceylan, Ö. Al, H. Ülger – 2016

 

  • Morphometric evaluation of acetabulum
    G.B. Uzun, M. Değermenci, I. Ucar, A. Arslan, M. Nisari – 2020

🔍 Conclusion

İlyas Uçar’s contributions to anatomical sciences extend beyond theoretical research, making a tangible impact on medical education and drug safety. His investigations into embryonic development have deepened the understanding of teratogenic risks, guiding both researchers and healthcare professionals. With a commitment to advancing knowledge through interdisciplinary collaboration, he continues to shape the future of anatomical and medical research. His legacy lies not only in his scientific discoveries but also in his role as an educator and mentor, ensuring that future generations carry forward his passion for medical science.

 

John Vincent Sanchez Orti | Biomarkers in Neurocognition | Young Scientist Award

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Dr. John Vincent Sanchez Orti | Biomarkers in Neurocognition | Young Scientist Award

Dr. Joan Vicent Sánchez Ortí, Health research institute,  Spain.

Joan Vicent Sánchez Ortí is a Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist currently working as a Research Technician at the Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria – INCLIVA. He is also a predoctoral researcher affiliated with CIBERSAM (Group 24, Universitat de València). His academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology (2016), a Master’s in General Health Psychology (2019), and a Master’s in Basic and Applied Neurosciences (2021), all from Universitat de València. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Medicine.

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🧠 A Passion for Understanding the Mind

Joan Vicent Sánchez Ortí was born on August 6, 1994, with an innate curiosity about the complexities of human cognition. From an early age, he displayed a deep interest in psychology and neuroscience, which led him to pursue an academic path dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of the brain. His journey began at the Universitat de València, where he obtained his degree in Psychology in 2016. Motivated by his growing fascination with neuropsychology, he continued his studies, earning a Master’s in General Health Psychology in 2019 and a Master’s in Basic and Applied Neurosciences in 2021. His dedication to advancing medical science led him to enroll in an official Doctorate Program in Medicine at the same institution.

🏥 Bridging Psychology and Neuroscience in Professional Practice

Currently serving as a Neuropsychologist and Research Technician at the Health Research Institute (INCLIVA) in Spain, Joan Vicent plays a vital role in understanding cognitive impairments associated with severe mental disorders. His affiliation with the Biomedical Research Center in Mental Health Network (CIBERSAM) – Group 24 at the Universitat de València has allowed him to contribute significantly to groundbreaking studies. His expertise lies in assessing neurocognitive deficits, biomarkers, and epigenetic factors, aiming to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric and neurological conditions.

🔬 Advancing Research in Neurocognitive Deficits and Mental Health

Joan Vicent’s research delves into the intricate connections between brain function, cognition, and mental health. His studies focus on identifying early biomarkers of cognitive decline, exploring epigenetic influences, and evaluating social functioning and quality of life in patients suffering from severe mental disorders. His contributions have been instrumental in improving the understanding of conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and neurodegenerative diseases, providing valuable insights for clinical interventions.

🏆 Recognized for Excellence in Neuroscience and Psychology

Through his commitment to scientific discovery, Joan Vicent has garnered recognition in the field of neuroscience and psychology. His contributions to neuropsychology and mental health research have positioned him as a promising figure in cognitive science. His work is widely acknowledged for its impact on the development of new therapeutic approaches and diagnostic techniques. With a strong academic and research background, he continues to be an influential voice in the study of cognitive impairment.

🌍 Impacting Lives Through Mental Health Research

Beyond academic achievements, Joan Vicent’s work has real-world implications, improving the quality of life for individuals facing cognitive challenges. His research contributes to developing more effective treatments, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, and fostering a better understanding of mental disorders. Through his role at INCLIVA and CIBERSAM, he actively collaborates with interdisciplinary teams, ensuring that his findings are translated into clinical practice, ultimately benefiting patients and healthcare professionals alike.

🚀 Paving the Way for Future Innovations in Neuropsychology

With a strong foundation in psychology, neuroscience, and medicine, Joan Vicent remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of cognitive research. His ongoing studies aim to integrate cutting-edge techniques in neuroimaging, genetics, and artificial intelligence to refine the understanding of neurocognitive disorders. His ambition is to contribute to the development of personalized medicine, where treatments are tailored to an individual’s neurobiological and psychological profile, revolutionizing mental healthcare.

🔮 A Vision for a Healthier, Cognitively Resilient Future

Looking ahead, Joan Vicent Sánchez Ortí envisions a world where mental health is better understood, diagnosed, and treated with precision. His dedication to neuropsychology and cognitive research will continue to shape the future of mental healthcare, inspiring new generations of scientists and clinicians. As he advances in his career, his unwavering commitment to improving lives through research stands as a testament to his passion and perseverance in the field of neuroscience.

Publication

  • Manual motor speed dysfunction as a neurocognitive endophenotype in euthymic bipolar disorder patients and their healthy relatives. Evidence from a 5-year follow-up study
    P Correa-Ghisays, V Balanzá-Martínez, G Selva-Vera, J Vila-Francés, …
    2017

 

  • Grip Strength, Neurocognition, and social functioning in people With Type-2 diabetes mellitus, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia
    M Aliño-Dies, JV Sanchez-Orti, P Correa-Ghisays, V Balanzá-Martinez, …
    2020

 

  • Visual memory dysfunction as a neurocognitive endophenotype in bipolar disorder patients and their unaffected relatives. Evidence from a 5-year follow-up Valencia study
    P Correa-Ghisays, JV Sánchez-Ortí, R Ayesa-Arriola, E Setién-Suero, …
    2019

 

  • Specific metabolic syndrome components predict cognition and social functioning in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus and severe mental disorders
    JV Sanchez‐Orti, V Balanzá‐Martinez, P Correa‐Ghisays, G Selva‐Vera, …
    2022

 

  • Immune–Inflammatory Biomarkers Predict Cognition and Social Functioning in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and …
    M Garés-Caballer, JV Sánchez-Ortí, P Correa-Ghisays, …
    2022

 

  • Probiotic, prebiotic, synbiotic and fermented food supplementation in psychiatric disorders: A systematic review of clinical trials
    C Ribera, JV Sánchez-Ortí, G Clarke, W Marx, S Mörkl, …
    2024

 

  • Transdiagnostic neurocognitive deficits in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia: A 1-year follow-up study
    P Correa-Ghisays, JV Sanchez-Orti, V Balanza-Martinez, G Selva-Vera, …
    2022

 

  • Inflammation and lipid metabolism as potential biomarkers of memory impairment across type 2 diabetes mellitus and severe mental disorders
    JV Sanchez-Orti, P Correa-Ghisays, V Balanza-Martinez, G Selva-Vera, …
    2023

 

  • MICEmi: A method to identify cognitive endophenotypes of mental illnesses
    P Correa-Ghisays, JV Sanchez-Orti, V Balanza-Martinez, I Fuentes-Dura, …
    2022

 

  • Specific immune-inflammatory profiles and neurocognitive deficits predict illness trajectories in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus or psychiatric disorders
    JV Sanchez-Orti, P Correa-Ghisays, V Balanza-Martinez, G Selva-Vera, …
    2025

 

Conclusion 🎯

Joan Vicent Sánchez Ortí’s dedication to neuroscience and mental health research positions him as an influential figure in the field. His expertise bridges psychology, medicine, and genetics, offering innovative solutions for cognitive disorders. With a strong commitment to improving lives through research, his work has already made a meaningful impact and will continue to shape the future of mental healthcare, neuropsychology, and personalized medicine. As he advances in his career, his passion and contributions will undoubtedly lead to groundbreaking discoveries in cognitive science.