Recognized Biomedical Research Leaders 2025

Dr. James Utley is a pioneering scientist at the forefront of cellular therapy, AI, and data science. A Johns Hopkins-educated Immunohematology expert and Certified Advanced Biotherapies Professional (CABP), he also holds advanced certifications in data science and machine learning. While serving as Technical Director at a major healthcare organization, Dr. Utley oversaw more than 150,000 successful cellular transfusions and spearheaded advancements that significantly improved patient outcomes. This experience included leading initiatives for the Department of Defense, where he revolutionized cellular transfusion practices. His innovative approach is further exemplified by his FDA-approved work and numerous publications in leading scientific journals. Dr. Utley is also known for his bold, hands-on approach to research, embodying the spirit of a "biohacker" by pushing the boundaries of CRISPR and genetic engineering through self-experimentation. This unique blend of rigorous scientific training and unconventional methods has earned him the moniker "the pirate" within the biohacker community.

As a Mechanical Engineer and Business Analyst, I thrive at the intersection of engineering innovation and strategic problem-solving. With experience in business development, market analysis, and process optimisation, I’ve delivered impactful results—whether driving market expansion or improving processes in manufacturing. Passionate about leveraging technology and data to fuel growth, I’m always looking for the next challenge—optimizing operations, exploring new markets, or designing innovative solutions.

Dr. Jagdish Khubchandani is a Professor of Public Health at New Mexico State University (NMSU), known for his extensive research and expertise in global health and social epidemiology

Dr. Akshaya Srikanth Bhagavathula is an Associate Professor of Epidemiology at North Dakota State University, internationally recognized for his pioneering work at the intersection of digital epidemiology, pharmacovigilance, and artificial intelligence. His research harnesses advanced statistical modeling and AI to track and predict health behaviors, medication safety, and disease patterns in real time—bridging traditional epidemiology with next-generation digital health analytics. Dr. Bhagavathula has published more than 250 peer-reviewed articles in leading journals, including Annals of Epidemiology, JAMA Network Open, and Lancet Digital Health. His work has been widely cited and featured in major media outlets such as The New York Times, where he discussed the real-world safety of GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro). Recognized among the Stanford–Elsevier Top 2% of Scientists (2019–2024) and elected as a Fellow of the American College of Epidemiology, Dr. Bhagavathula is known for translating complex data into actionable insights that shape public health policy and clinical practice. His ongoing projects include NIH- and NSF-aligned initiatives on AI-powered overdose forecasting, digital twins for public health, and real-world drug safety surveillance using explainable machine learning. With a decade of experience spanning more than two dozen countries and collaborations with organizations such as WHO, USAID, and UNICEF, Dr. Bhagavathula brings a global, data-driven, and human-centered approach to solving modern health crises.

Dr. Paul Durham is distinguished professor of biology and director of Missouri State University's Center for Biomedical and Life Sciences, a multidisciplinary laboratory that utilizes cellular/molecular, microbiological, biochemical and chemical techniques. A primary goal of his research is to determine the signaling pathways by which inflammatory and anti-inflammatory agents control neuropeptide gene expression in disorders involving the trigeminal nerve. Currently, he is studying the regulation of protein expression in cultured nerve and glial cells, human cell lines, in vivo animal models and clinical studies. A major focus of his research has been to elucidate the cellular/molecular mechanisms by which novel drugs and nutraceuticals modulate the excitability state of neurons and glial cells under pathological conditions in models of migraine, TMJ disorder and epilepsy. More recently, his laboratory has been investigating epigenetic mechanisms and changes in gut microbiota in response to changes in diet, sleep pattern, stress and chronic inflammation. Durham is frequently invited as a guest lecturer. He has authored or co-authored 80 peer-reviewed research publications, numerous book chapters and technical reports, and 160 published abstracts. He has received nearly $14 million in external grants to support his research. In addition, Durham has served on numerous National Institutes of Health (NIH) study sections and advisory boards, and is currently a reviewer for 15 different journals.

I’m an entrepreneur working at the intersection of AI, product execution, and healthcare access. Over the last decade I’ve built and led teams that turn new technology into practical tools for real businesses. I co-founded BotsCrew in 2016, grew it into a global AI services company, and later joined the CourtAvenue collective, where we help large enterprises adopt generative AI with speed and precision. I also founded AllClinicalTrials.com and Curify, two platforms focused on making it easier for patients to find and enroll in legitimate clinical trials. That work started from a personal experience trying to find treatment options for a family member, and it pushed me toward building products that remove friction from complex systems. My background is in applied mathematics and AI, but most of my learning came from building things fast, talking to customers, and fixing what didn’t work. I’m especially interested in how generative AI will reshape operations, customer experience, and decision-making in large organizations. I try to share what I learn - both the wins and the mistakes - so others can move faster.

I am Brian Tham, an Applied Artificial Intelligence undergraduate at Singapore Institute of Technology with a strong academic record and practical experience in AI research and development. My work focuses on advancing AI applications, particularly in the areas of model protection, computer vision, and machine learning. You may view my portfolio/website at https://tham.ai As a Research Student at Singapore Institute of Technology, I've contributed to significant work on AI model protection, specifically focusing on defending deep neural networks against model extraction attacks. My research encompasses model watermarking, adversarial robustness, and advanced defense mechanisms, with practical applications in medical imaging through UNet model implementation for brain MRI segmentation. My technical portfolio includes notable projects such as FoodVision, a real-time deep learning food detection system utilizing YOLOv8 technology, and a Speech Emotion Recognition system based on Wav2Vec2. I've also conducted comprehensive analyses of emerging technologies, including a detailed study of ransomware impacts across various industries and an evaluation of AI chatbot capabilities. Previously, I enhanced medical education at Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, where my e-learning courseware development contributed to a 20% improvement in student test scores. My professional experience extends to the Ministry of Defence of Singapore, where I specialized in data processing automation and visualization using PowerBI and Excel. I hold multiple prestigious certifications, including Google Professional Machine Learning Engineer, Google Business Intelligence, and AI4I® – Proficiency in AI from AI Singapore. My technical expertise spans Python, machine learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch), and data analysis tools, complemented by a deep understanding of quantum computing, large language models, and autonomous vehicle technologies. This combination of academic excellence, practical research experience, and technical expertise positions me at the forefront of AI innovation and its real-world applications.

Specialties: Community mental health, minority women's sexual health disparities research, and STI and HIV prevention research.

(Dr.) Nik Taylor's research focusses on (1) human-animal relationships including links between violence to animals and to humans and (2) the neoliberalisation of higher education/universities. Nik is co-director of the New Zealand Centre for Human-Animal Studies at the University of Canterbury, where she also teaches topics on human-animal violence links; scholar-advocacy; social change, and crime and deviance, particularly domestic violence and animal abuse. Nik’s latest books include Queer Entanglements (Cambridge University Press, with Damien Riggs, Heather Fraser and Shoshana Rosenberg) and Rescuing Me, Rescuing You: Companion Animals and Domestic Violence (Palgrave, 2019, with Heather Fraser).

I’m a lifesciences compliance strategist with a passion for building real-world, right-sized programs in fast-moving environments. With deep experience in pharma and medtech, I specialize in translating regulatory complexity into practical, actionable frameworks. I’ve spent 7+ years navigating the gray areas of compliance—from training physicians on industry expectations to building startup programs from the ground up. I believe compliance should be ethical, functional, and human-centered—and that culture is built through clarity, storytelling, and respect, not fear. Outside of policy and audits, I speak regularly on startup compliance and love turning “boring” topics into memorable moments. I'm here to connect, create, and contribute.

Brian is the Chief AI Officer at Health-Vision.AI, LLC, where he leads responsible AI implementation and develops ethical AI, security, and governance frameworks for healthcare and life sciences organizations in the US and EU. He is also the founder of Envision-Health.AI and creator of HealthRoundsAI, a platform that helps future clinicians use AI ethically and communicate more effectively with patients. With decades of public- and private-sector experience in health tech, AI strategy, data governance, and digital innovation, Brian is a recognized thought leader on AI ethics, AI governance, and the societal impacts of AI in healthcare. He also serves as an adjunct instructor in social sciences and AI ethics and has published in JMIR, Public Health Reports, and the Journal of Community Health.

Dr. B.J. Lehecka is a Full Professor of Physical Therapy at Wichita State University, holding a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) from Wichita State University and a PhD in Orthopedic and Sports Science. His expertise centers on orthopedic physical therapy and sports science, with a strong specialization in gluteal function, lower extremity endurance, and sports mechanics. Key Achievements Peer-Reviewed Publications: Dr. Lehecka is a prolific author with at least 29 peer-reviewed publications and book chapters, including works on gluteal endurance measures (GEMs), muscle activation during bridges and yoga poses, and functional testing. Grant Activity: He has secured funding for research, including studies on bone density, lean muscle mass, and jump height in NCAA Division I athletes. Presenting Expert: He is a highly sought-after presenter, delivering numerous scientific and professional talks across the country and internationally, often focusing on "Butt Science" and "Hip Fitness for Tennis and Pickleball Athletes". Academics and Leadership: Dr. Lehecka currently serves as a Full Professor (Tenured) and has held numerous leadership roles, including Chair of the College of Health Professions Tenure and Promotion Committee. Awards: His teaching and research excellence have been recognized with awards like the Wichita State University College of Health Professions Excellence in Research Award (2024) and multiple teaching accolades.

Dr. Ayesha Bryant, M.S.P.H, M.D. is a physician, clinical scientist, and associate professor dedicated to translating complex medical research into practical health solutions. With more than 100 peer-reviewed publications and multiple textbook chapters, Dr. Bryant is recognized for her contributions to perioperative outcomes research, preventive medicine, and quality-of-life improvement. She currently serves as a clinical advisor at Alpas Wellness, a drug, alcohol & mental health treatment center in Maryland. She completed her medical training at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine and Emory University, with additional training in epidemiology and public health. Her research has been featured at major national and international conferences, including the Society of Thoracic Surgeons and the American Association for Thoracic Surgery. Dr. Bryant’s expertise spans functional medicine, AI-driven healthcare algorithms, and national clinical data registry research. She is passionate about combining evidence-based medicine with real-world wellness strategies to improve patient outcomes and preventive care. In addition to her academic work, she has written for Rupa Health, where she shares insights on how readers can live healthier, more vibrant lives.

** MEN'S HEALTH EXPERT OPEN TO MEDIA INQUIRIES **I have spent years studying men's issues, from relationships to sexual function to psychology and wellness. An Amazon bestselling author who has a mission in life to help other men with their problems. If you are having trouble in life with depression, physical health, bad relationships or anger, I want to help you have a better life.I have a long and troubled history and have had to overcome many hurdles to get to where I am. If I could do it, so can you, and I am happy to help.My DM's are always open for media requests and people looking for podcast guests.

In my role, I meticulously oversee various clinical projects, ensuring each phase is executed with precision and in compliance with GCP standards. Core Competencies: Clinical Trials Monitoring Clinical Safety Protocols Streamlined Clinical Operations Regulatory Compliance Mastery Educational Background: MSc in Molecular Science and Nanotechnology, Louisiana Tech University MSc in Medical Genetics, MGM University of Health Sciences With a robust educational foundation and a keen eye for detail, I have successfully navigated through different therapeutic areas and regions, delivering high-quality results consistently. My journey in the realm of clinical research is driven by an insatiable curiosity and a deep-seated commitment to advancing science and practice. Let’s Connect! If you are passionate about transforming health care and improving patient lives, or if you wish to exchange insights and collaborate on projects, feel free to connect with me. Together, let’s contribute to a healthier, more understanding world for individuals navigating through challenges.

Dr. Chandril Chugh is a U.S.-trained, board-certified neurologist with over 17 years of global experience. He specializes in treating complex brain and spine conditions, including stroke, migraine, dementia, epilepsy, and brain trauma. He brings expertise in interventional neurology, using minimally invasive procedures to treat neurological emergencies and chronic disorders. Dr. Chugh also focuses on lifestyle-related issues like stress-induced anxiety, insomnia, and burnout—offering holistic solutions grounded in neuroscience. As co-founder of the Dr Good Deed Foundation, he has helped transform rural healthcare in India through teleclinics, health camps, and community outreach. Through social media and his digital series “Hello Doctor,” Dr. Chugh simplifies brain health and wellness for the public, making expert medical knowledge accessible and relatable to all.

PhD graduate with 10+ years of experience as a food scientist, specialized in sensory analysis, R&D, data processing and analysis, and project management.Committed to excellence in food science through extensive research, education, and industry contributions. Focused on continuous improvement, fostering balanced workplaces, and effective teamwork.Based in Portugal, open to travel and relocations.

Hello! Thanks for viewing my profile. I'm on the lookout for an interesting opportunity in Market Research/Insights/Behavioural Science/UX research.I'm a banking professional turned behavioural science enthusiast. My interests lie in consumer psychology, public policy research, and the application of behavioural science concepts in the real world. In my free time, I volunteer with a few mental health NGOs. Access to mental health support is a social cause I deeply care about and contribute to. Feel free to contact me here or via email at aishwaryasundar1995@gmail.com