Ketan Bulsara | Cellular Neuroscience | Excellence in Neuroscience Research Award

Dr. Ketan Bulsara | Cellular Neuroscience | Excellence in Neuroscience Research Award

Dr. Ketan Bulsara, University of Connecticut, United States.

Dr. Ketan Ramanlal Bulsara is a distinguished neurosurgeon, educator, and administrator whose career has been defined by excellence in academic leadership, innovative research, and patient-centered surgical advancements. With a strong foundation in medical education and training, he has held prestigious positions at leading institutions, making significant contributions to the fields of cerebrovascular and skull base surgery. His work in neurosurgical education, healthcare policy, and perioperative quality improvement continues to influence the next generation of medical professionals.

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šŸŽ“ Early Academic Pursuits: The Foundation of Excellence

Dr. Ketan Ramanlal Bulsara’s journey into the world of neurosurgery began with a strong academic foundation. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Biology and Neuroscience, graduating Magna Cum Laude from Davidson College in 1992. His passion for medicine led him to Duke University School of Medicine, where he earned his Medical Degree with Honors in 1996. Committed to mastering his craft, Dr. Bulsara underwent rigorous neurosurgical training at Duke University Medical Center, progressing through internship, residency, and chief residency roles. His dedication to specialized knowledge took him to the University of Iowa for a fellowship in Transoral Surgery and later to Duke’s Neurovascular Program for an advanced Endovascular Fellowship, earning CAST certification by the Senior Neurological Society.

šŸŽ‰ Professional Endeavors: Pioneering Neurosurgical Excellence

Dr. Bulsara has held esteemed academic and leadership positions throughout his career. Beginning as an Assistant Professor at the University of Missouri, he quickly ascended to directorship roles at Yale University, where he led Neuroendovascular and Skull Base Surgery Programs. His expertise and leadership took him to UConn Health, where he has served as Professor and Chief of Neurosurgery since 2017. As Program Director of UConn’s Neurosurgery Residency Training Program and Director of Operating Room Quality, he has been instrumental in shaping the next generation of neurosurgeons. His administrative impact extended further when he was appointed Interim Inaugural Chairman of UConn’s Department of Neurosurgery in 2024.

šŸ“š Contributions and Research Focus: Advancing Neurosurgical Innovation

Throughout his career, Dr. Bulsara has been at the forefront of neurosurgical research, focusing on cerebrovascular and skull base surgery, neuroendovascular techniques, and perioperative advancements. His tenure at Yale and UConn Health has been marked by groundbreaking contributions to neurosurgical methodologies, patient safety protocols, and cutting-edge surgical interventions. With a keen interest in medical policy and administration, he also serves as Chair of the UConn Health/University of Connecticut Dean’s Task Force on Coding and Documentation, ensuring optimal standards in medical practice.

šŸ† Accolades and Recognition: A Trailblazer’s Achievements

Dr. Bulsara’s exemplary work has earned him widespread recognition in academic, clinical, and administrative spheres. His leadership has been pivotal in strengthening neurosurgical departments and residency programs, earning respect from peers and students alike. His continued commitment to excellence led him to pursue an Executive MBA at Yale School of Management, which he completed in 2017, equipping him with advanced skills in healthcare management and strategic planning. Furthering his multidisciplinary expertise, he embarked on a legal education at the University of Connecticut School of Law in 2024, highlighting his commitment to integrating medicine, business, and law for the betterment of healthcare.

šŸ’” Impact and Influence: Shaping the Future of Neurosurgery

Dr. Bulsara’s influence extends far beyond the operating room. As a mentor, he has trained and guided numerous neurosurgeons, instilling in them the values of precision, innovation, and patient-centered care. His research and administrative contributions have shaped hospital policies and perioperative strategies, leading to improved surgical outcomes and enhanced healthcare delivery systems. His work in academic leadership continues to bridge the gap between medical practice, research, and education.

 

Publication

  • Spinal axon regeneration evoked by replacing two growth cone proteins in adult neurons – HM Bomze, KR Bulsara, BJ Iskandar, P Caroni, JH Pate Skene (2001)

 

  • Longitudinal molecular trajectories of diffuse glioma in adults – FP Barthel, KC Johnson, FS Varn, AD Moskalik, G Tanner, E Kocakavuk, et al. (2019)

 

  • Glioma progression is shaped by genetic evolution and microenvironment interactions – FS Varn, KC Johnson, J Martinek, JT Huse, MLP Nasrallah, P Wesseling, et al. (2022)

 

  • Accuracy of prediction instruments for diagnosing large vessel occlusion in individuals with suspected stroke: a systematic review for the 2018 guidelines for the early… – EE Smith, DM Kent, KR Bulsara, LY Leung, JH Lichtman, MJ Reeves, et al. (2018)

 

  • Perioperative complications in transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion versus anterior–posterior reconstruction for lumbar disc degeneration and instability – AT Villavicencio, S Burneikiene, KR Bulsara, JJ Thramann (2006)

 

  • Vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging identifies the site of rupture in patients with multiple intracranial aneurysms: proof of principle – CC Matouk, DM Mandell, M Günel, KR Bulsara, A Malhotra, R Hebert, et al. (2013)

 

  • Safety of transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion and intervertebral recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein—2 – AT Villavicencio, S Burneikiene, EL Nelson, KR Bulsara, M Favors, et al. (2005)

 

  • Laminectomy versus percutaneous electrode placement for spinal cord stimulation – AT Villavicencio, JC Leveque, L Rubin, K Bulsara, JP Gorecki (2000)

 

  • Indications for thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke from emergent large vessel occlusion (ELVO): report of the SNIS Standards and Guidelines Committee – M Mokin, SA Ansari, RA McTaggart, KR Bulsara, M Goyal, M Chen, et al. (2019)

 

  • Review of the literature on de novo formation of cavernous malformations of the central nervous system after radiation therapy – SM Nimjee, CJ Powers, KR Bulsara (2006)

 

šŸ’Ŗ Conclusion

A visionary in neurosurgery, Dr. Bulsara’s impact transcends surgical practice, reaching into medical education, research, and healthcare administration. His multidisciplinary approach—combining medicine, business, and law—positions him as a leader in shaping the future of healthcare. His commitment to innovation and excellence ensures that his contributions will continue to elevate neurosurgical standards and inspire future generations of medical professionals.

 

 

 

DaŔa Zupančič | Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. DaŔa Zupančič | Cellular Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. DaŔa Zupančič, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia.

DaŔa Zupančič is a distinguished academic and researcher specializing in cell biology, urothelial pathology, and medical education. Her extensive contributions to scientific research, particularly in the field of urothelial repair and cancer transformation, have earned her recognition, including the EMBO award. She has played a crucial role in mentoring and teaching, guiding future generations of researchers and medical professionals.

Profile

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✨ Early Academic Pursuits ✨

DaÅ”a Zupančič embarked on her academic journey with an unwavering passion for cell biology and medicine. She earned her Master’s degree in 2002 from the University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine, where she meticulously explored cellular and molecular biological changes in the rat bladder urothelium following cyclophosphamide exposure. This formative research laid the foundation for her Ph.D., which she successfully completed in 2006, investigating the protective role of melatonin in urothelial injury and repair. Her dedication to advancing biomedical knowledge was evident from the very beginning of her scholarly career.

šŸŽ“ Professional Endeavors šŸŽ“

Since 2006, DaŔa Zupančič has been an esteemed Associate Professor at the University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Cell Biology. Prior to this, she gained valuable experience as a Young Researcher and Teaching Assistant from 1999 to 2006. Her extensive expertise and commitment to education have made her an integral part of the institution, where she continuously fosters scientific curiosity and excellence among students and colleagues alike.

šŸŽ” Contributions and Research Focus šŸŽ”

Throughout her career, DaÅ”a Zupančič has dedicated her research to understanding cellular mechanisms in urothelial biology and pathology. Her investigations into cyclophosphamide-induced urothelial injury, melatonin’s protective effects, and retinoid signaling pathways in urothelial cancer transformation have provided valuable insights into cellular repair processes. Her work extends beyond laboratory research, influencing the medical community’s approach to urothelial diseases and potential therapeutic advancements.

šŸ† Accolades and Recognition šŸ†

Her exceptional contributions to biomedical research have been recognized on multiple platforms. In 2017, she was honored with the prestigious EMBO award for her short-term scholarship project on the role of the retinoid signaling pathway in urothelial cancer transformation. This recognition underscores her significant impact on the scientific community and highlights her pioneering approach to understanding cancer pathophysiology.

šŸ‘Øā€šŸŽ“ Impact and Influence šŸ‘Øā€šŸŽ“

A dedicated mentor, DaÅ”a Zupančič has guided numerous students towards academic excellence. Between 2014 and 2025, she has successfully mentored four master’s students and is currently supervising two more. In addition, she has overseen the research endeavors of four Ph.D. candidates, with one having successfully defended their dissertation in 2023 and another expected to graduate in 2025. Her mentorship has shaped the next generation of biomedical researchers, fostering a culture of rigorous inquiry and scientific discovery.

šŸ“š Legacy and Future Contributions šŸ“š

Beyond her research, DaŔa Zupančič plays a pivotal role in academia through her extensive teaching engagements. Since 2000, she has been a cornerstone of education at the University of Ljubljana, contributing to multiple faculties, including Medicine, Biotechnical Sciences, Health Sciences, and Pharmacy. She teaches a range of graduate and doctoral courses, covering essential subjects such as Medical Cell Biology, Immunology, and Research in Medicine. Her dedication to education ensures that her knowledge and expertise continue to shape the minds of aspiring medical professionals and researchers for years to come.

Publication

  • Vitamin A‐Enriched Diet Increases Urothelial Cell Proliferation by Upregulating Itga3 and Areg After Cyclophosphamide‐Induced Injury in Mice
    Authors: Brina Dragar, Simona Kranjc Brezar, Maja Čemažar, Tanja Jesenko, Rok Romih, Mateja Erdani Kreft, Tadeja Kuret, DaÅ”a Zupančič
    Year: 2025

 

  • Selective Targeting of Lectins and Their Macropinocytosis in Urothelial Tumours: Translation from in vitro to ex vivo
    Authors: NataŔa Resnik, Tanja ViŔnjar, Tomaž Smrkolj, Mateja Erdani Kreft, Rok Romih, DaŔa Zupančič
    Year: 2023

 

  • Nanodiamonds as Possible Tools for Improved Management of Bladder Cancer and Bacterial Cystitis
    Authors: DaŔa Zupančič, Peter Veranič
    Year: 2022

 

  • Transmission Electron Microscopy Demonstration of Reduced Endothelial Glycocalyx in Severe Preeclampsia
    Authors: Mugerli S, Zupančič D, Rok Romih, Lučovnik M
    Year: 2022

 

  • Vitamin A and Retinoids in Bladder Cancer Chemoprevention and Treatment: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence, Challenges and Future Prospects
    Authors: Larisa Tratnjek, Jera Jeruc, Rok Romih, DaŔa Zupančič
    Year: 2021

 

  • Immunohistochemistry as a Paramount Tool in Research of Normal Urothelium, Bladder Cancer and Bladder Pain Syndrome
    Authors: DaŔa Zupančič, Rok Romih
    Year: 2021

 

  • Combined Lectin- and Immuno-Histochemistry (CLIH) for Applications in Cell Biology and Cancer Diagnosis: Analysis of Human Urothelial Carcinomas
    Authors: DaŔa Zupančič
    Year: 2020

 

  • Vitamin A Rich Diet Diminishes Early Urothelial Carcinogenesis by Altering Retinoic Acid Signaling
    Authors: DaÅ”a Zupančič, Jelena Korać-Prlić, Mateja Erdani Kreft, Lucija Franković, Katarina Vilović, Jera Jeruc, Rok Romih, JanoÅ” Terzić
    Year: 2020

 

  • Lectins as Possible Tools for Improved Urinary Bladder Cancer Management
    Authors: DaŔa Zupančič
    Year: 2019

 

  • Co-Culturing Porcine Normal Urothelial Cells, Urinary Bladder Fibroblasts and Smooth Muscle Cells for Tissue Engineering Research
    Authors: DaŔa Zupančič
    Year: 2018

 

🌟 Conclusion 🌟

With a career dedicated to pioneering research, impactful mentorship, and transformative education, DaŔa Zupančič continues to leave a lasting legacy in the scientific and academic communities. Her work not only enhances understanding of urothelial biology but also inspires innovation and discovery among young scientists. As she continues her academic and research endeavors, her influence on the field will undoubtedly grow, shaping the future of biomedical sciences.