Maëva Daoud | Brain stimulation | Young Scientist Award

Dr Maëva Daoud | Brain stimulation | Young Scientist Award

Research Assistant, Aix Marseille University, France

Maëva Daoud is a Research Assistant specializing in Neuroscience, currently serving as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the University of Geneva. Her work spans across brain stimulation, epilepsy, and neurophysiological measurements. Daoud holds a PhD in Neuroscience from Aix Marseille University and has developed a strong foundation in experimental neuroscience through multiple internships and research roles. She is particularly passionate about improving treatments for epilepsy using non-invasive brain stimulation techniques like transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Daoud has authored several publications, presented at international conferences, and is actively involved in research that bridges basic and clinical neuroscience. In addition, she contributes to team leadership, organizing lab meetings and PhD events, demonstrating her capacity for both scientific and collaborative efforts.

Profile

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Education

  • 2024–2025: Postdoctoral Researcher in Neuroscience, University of Geneva, Switzerland
  • 2020–2024: PhD in Neuroscience, Aix Marseille University, France
  • 2017–2019: Master in Fundamental and Clinical Neuroscience, Claude Bernard University, France
  • 2015–2017: Bachelor in Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Paul Sabatier University, France

Daoud’s education reflects a strong academic progression, starting with a Bachelor’s degree in physiology and advancing through a Master’s and PhD in neuroscience. Her research trajectory has been deeply focused on epilepsy, brain networks, and neurostimulation. During her doctoral studies, she trained at prominent institutions like the Systems Neuroscience Institute and received mentorship from leading experts in the field. This educational foundation has prepared her for postdoctoral research aimed at improving clinical treatments for neurological conditions using advanced techniques like tDCS and neuroimaging.

Experience

Maëva Daoud’s research experience spans multiple prestigious institutions. From 2020 to 2024, she worked on her PhD at the Systems Neuroscience Institute in Marseille, focusing on brain stimulation‘s effects in epilepsy. Her research explored the neurophysiological mechanisms and network dynamics involved in drug-resistant epilepsy and their modulation by multichannel tDCS. Prior to this, she completed research internships at the Neuroscience Research Center of Lyon (2019) and Animal Cognition Research Center (2017), gaining expertise in intracerebral EEG, brain anatomy, and behavioral neuroscience. These internships provided her with diverse skills in neuroimaging, electrophysiology, and animal models, all of which contributed to her robust scientific foundation. Daoud has also taken on leadership roles in organizing team meetings and PhD events, demonstrating her collaborative skills.

Research Focus

Maëva Daoud’s research focuses on improving treatments for epilepsy through non-invasive brain stimulation, particularly multichannel transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Her work aims to understand the neurophysiological effects of tDCS on brain networks in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. She uses advanced techniques such as MEG, HR-EEG, and source reconstruction to study the impact of tDCS on brain excitability, functional connectivity, and epileptogenic zones. Daoud’s research explores both local and network changes in the brain, with the goal of personalizing brain stimulation therapies. Additionally, she investigates sleep-related brain dynamics and cortical-thalamic coupling during paradoxical sleep, offering insights into the fundamental mechanisms of brain networks. Her work blends clinical and experimental neuroscience, providing potential clinical applications for treating epilepsy and other neurological disorders.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Daoud M, Medina S, et al., The extent and depth of the epileptogenic zone network impact the response to tDCS. (Accepted in Brain Communication)
  2. Daoud M, Medina S, et al., Local and Network Changes after Multichannel tDCS using MEG in Patients with Refractory Epilepsy. (Accepted in Clinical Neurophysiology)
  3. Bastuji H, Daoud M, et al., REM sleep remains paradoxical: sub-states determined by thalamo-cortical and cortico-cortical functional connectivity. J Physiol. 2024, 602(20):5269-5287.
  4. Daoud M†, Durelle C†, et al., Long-term effect of multichannel tDCS protocol in patients with central cortex epilepsies associated with epilepsia partialis continua. Brain Topogr. 2024, 10.1007/s10548-024-01045-3.
  5. Simula S†, Daoud M†, et al., Transcranial current stimulation in epilepsy: A systematic review of the fundamental and clinical aspects. Front Neurosci. 2022;16:909421.
  6. Daoud M, Salvador R, et al., Stereo-EEG based personalized multichannel tDCS in drug-resistant epilepsy. Clin Neurophysiol. 2022;137:142-151.

Abdulrahim Alrasheed | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Dr Abdulrahim Alrasheed | Neuroscience | Best Researcher Award

Medical Student, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, AlAhsa, Saudi Arabia

Abdulrahim Saleh Alrasheed is a dedicated medical student at the College of Medicine, King Faisal University in AlAhsa, Saudi Arabia, aspiring to specialize in neurosurgery. His academic journey is marked by a passion for research and a commitment to advancing medical knowledge. He has earned recognition for his contributions, including awards for his scientific presentations. As an Elsevier-certified peer reviewer and a research mentor on the ResearchMate platform, he plays an active role in nurturing emerging researchers. Abdulrahim leads both his batch and the Neurosurgery Interest Group, demonstrating his leadership skills and commitment to collaboration in academia. His proactive approach to research has resulted in several high-quality publications, highlighting his potential as a future leader in neurosurgery and neuroscience.

Profile

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Strengths for Award

Abdulrahim Saleh Alrasheed stands out as an exceptional candidate for the Best Researcher Award due to his impressive accomplishments as a fourth-year medical student aspiring to become a neurosurgeon. He has published four articles in reputable journals, showcasing his commitment to advancing the field of neuroscience. His work has already garnered recognition, including a best poster presentation award and the title of best researcher at the Innovation and Research Day at King Faisal University. As a certified peer reviewer and formal research mentor, he actively contributes to the academic community and supports the growth of fellow researchers. His leadership roles in various research groups demonstrate his dedication to fostering collaboration and innovation within his institution.

Areas for Improvement

While Abdulrahim has an impressive publication record, expanding his citation index could enhance his visibility and impact within the scientific community. Additionally, seeking opportunities for collaboration with established researchers in international settings may further enrich his experience and broaden the scope of his research. Pursuing patents or engaging in consultancy projects could also diversify his research portfolio and contribute to practical applications of his findings.

Education

Abdulrahim Saleh Alrasheed is currently pursuing his medical degree at the College of Medicine, King Faisal University, where he has excelled academically since 2021. His education has provided him with a robust foundation in medical sciences, particularly in neurosurgery and neuroscience. He actively engages in various academic activities, including seminars, workshops, and research projects that complement his formal education. Abdulrahim’s commitment to continuous learning is evident in his pursuit of certifications, such as becoming an Elsevier-certified peer reviewer. He also participates in initiatives like the Be Researcher program, which further enhances his research skills and knowledge. Through his involvement in the Neurosurgery Interest Group, he collaborates with peers and mentors, fostering a strong network that enriches his educational experience. His academic achievements and leadership roles reflect his dedication to becoming a skilled neurosurgeon and a competent researcher in the medical field.

Experience 

Abdulrahim Saleh Alrasheed has gained valuable experience through his active involvement in research and leadership within the academic community. He has completed six research projects and currently has four ongoing, demonstrating his commitment to advancing knowledge in neuroscience. As a first author on multiple published articles, he has honed his research and writing skills while contributing significantly to the field. His role as an Elsevier-certified peer reviewer showcases his expertise and ability to evaluate the quality of scientific work critically. In addition, Abdulrahim leads the Neurosurgery Interest Group and the Sail Research Club at King Faisal University, where he fosters collaboration among students and promotes research initiatives. His mentorship on the ResearchMate platform allows him to guide fellow students, further enhancing his leadership and communication skills. This blend of research, leadership, and mentorship experiences positions him as a promising future neurosurgeon and researcher.

Research Focus 

Abdulrahim Saleh Alrasheed’s research focus centers on neuroscience, particularly in neurosurgery and brain health. His work aims to explore innovative approaches and therapies that can improve patient outcomes in neurosurgical practices. He has conducted systematic reviews and meta-analyses on critical topics, such as immunomodulation in traumatic brain injury and the use of advanced imaging techniques for glioblastoma. These research efforts underscore his commitment to evidence-based practice and his desire to contribute meaningful insights to the field. By actively participating in peer review processes and collaborating with fellow researchers, Abdulrahim seeks to elevate the quality of scientific literature. His involvement in various research projects reflects his enthusiasm for investigating novel therapies and understanding complex neurological conditions. Through his work, he aspires to make significant contributions to the advancement of neuroscience and the development of innovative treatment strategies for patients suffering from neurological disorders.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Brainstem Toxicity Following Proton Beam Radiation Therapy in Pediatric Brain Tumors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis 📊
  2. Clinical Presentation, Diagnosis, and Management of Wrist Intravascular Papillary Endothelial Hyperplasia: A Case Report and Literature Review 🩺
  3. Emerging Therapies for Immunomodulation in Traumatic Brain Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis 🧠
  4. Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Glioblastoma: Oncology-Radiology Integration 🔍

Conclusion

Abdulrahim Saleh Alrasheed exemplifies the qualities of a distinguished researcher through his strong academic performance, impactful contributions to neuroscience, and leadership in fostering research initiatives. His ongoing commitment to innovation and mentorship positions him as a promising future leader in the field. Awarding him the Best Researcher Award would not only recognize his past achievements but also encourage his continued dedication to advancing medical science.