Migraine Archives - Research Data Analysis Awards

Dr. Vaishali Sharma | Neuroscience Data Analysis | Best Researcher Award

Post Graduate Institue of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) | India

Dr. Vaishali Sharma is a Senior Research Fellow at the Department of Neurology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, specializing in neurobiology, neuroinflammation, and sleep disorders. She earned her Ph.D. in Neurology (2020–2025) from PGIMER, focusing on the role of aquaporins, heat shock proteins, and neuroinflammatory markers in idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) and their correlation with clinical parameters. She also holds a master’s degree in Zoology and a bachelor’s in Medical Science. Her research encompasses molecular biomarkers, blood-brain barrier disruption, circadian rhythm disturbances, and the evaluation of sleep and headache disorders, combining clinical, translational, and systematic review approaches. Dr. Sharma has contributed to multiple peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations, investigating psychiatric and sleep abnormalities, migraine care, and IIH pathophysiology. She has been recognized with several awards and fellowships, including CSIR and ICMR travel grants, best poster awards, and national and international research fellowships. Her professional activities extend to academic leadership and organizing conferences in neuro-ophthalmology and neurology. Dr. Sharma’s work advances the understanding of neuroinflammatory mechanisms, sleep disorders, and headache pathophysiology, providing insights for improved diagnosis, treatment, and quality of life for patients with neurological disorders.

Featured Publications

Choudhary, N., Kumar, A., Sharma, V., Kaur, K., Kharbanda, P. S., Baishya, J., et al. (2024). “Effectiveness of CBT for reducing depression and anxiety in people with epilepsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.” Epilepsy & Behavior, 151, 109608.

Sharma, V., Chakravarty, K., Ray, S., Lal, V., & Takkar, A., Kharbanda, P. (2021). “Evaluation of prevalence and severity of obstructive sleep apnea using overnight-polysomnography in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension.” Journal of the Neurological Sciences, 429.

Sharma, V., Chakravarty, K., & Ray, S. (2023). “Questionnaire-based evaluation of sleep abnormality in patients with primary headache disorder: A cross-sectional study from tertiary care centre.” Journal of the Neurological Sciences, 455.

Sharma, S. R. V., & Chakravarty, K. (2023). “Questionnaire-based assessment of sleep abnormalities in patients with migraine: A cross-sectional study with a comparison group.” Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology, 26, S186.

Sharma, A. T. K., Chakravarty, K., Lal, V., & Kharbanda, P. S., et al. (2022). “Sleep and headache characteristics in patients with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) – An observational study.” Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology, 25, S296–S297.

Prof Dr. Marialuisa Gandolfi - Neurological disorders Award - Women Researcher

University of Verona - Italy

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Prof Dr. Marialuisa Gandolfi began her academic journey with a strong foundation in medicine, earning her medical degree from the University of Parma in 2003. Her dedication to furthering her expertise led her to specialize in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Verona in 2007. This period marked the initiation of her focused interest in neurological rehabilitation, which later became a cornerstone of her professional career.

Professional Endeavors

Prof Dr. Gandolfi's professional journey is characterized by a blend of clinical practice, research, and academic leadership. She started as a Medical Doctor at the Neurorehabilitation Unit of AOUI Verona in 2007, where she honed her skills in the practical application of rehabilitation techniques. Subsequently, she progressed through various research and teaching roles, culminating in her current position as Associate Professor in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at the University of Verona.

Contributions and Research Focus On Neurological disorders Award

Prof Dr. Gandolfi's research interests center around neurorehabilitation, particularly focusing on gait and balance disorders in patients with neurological diseases such as Parkinson's disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and stroke. Her expertise extends to postural abnormalities in Parkinson's disease, telerehabilitation, robotics, and pain management in neurorehabilitation settings. This breadth of focus underscores her commitment to addressing diverse challenges within the field and developing innovative solutions to improve patient outcomes.

Accolades and Recognition

Prof Dr. Gandolfi's contributions have earned her recognition both nationally and internationally. She has authored or co-authored over 128 peer-reviewed publications, reflecting her significant scholarly impact. Her H-index of 32 and over 3000 citations in Scopus attest to the quality and influence of her work. Moreover, her involvement in prestigious committees and scientific societies, such as the World Health Organization's Rehabilitation Programme and various Italian and European neurological rehabilitation societies, underscores her standing as a respected expert in her field.

Impact and Influence

Prof Dr. Gandolfi's impact extends beyond academia, as evidenced by her involvement in numerous funded research projects aimed at advancing rehabilitation techniques and improving patient care. Her collaborations with leading research institutions worldwide highlight the global reach of her work and its potential to shape future advancements in neurorehabilitation. Furthermore, her role as a mentor and educator has helped nurture the next generation of rehabilitation professionals, ensuring a lasting legacy of knowledge transfer and skill development.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As Prof Dr. Gandolfi continues to lead groundbreaking research, mentor aspiring professionals, and contribute to scientific discourse, her legacy in the field of neurorehabilitation is assured. Her dedication to improving patient outcomes, coupled with her interdisciplinary approach and international collaborations, positions her as a trailblazer in the quest for innovative rehabilitation strategies. Looking ahead, her future contributions are poised to further redefine standards of care and advance the field towards new frontiers of discovery and innovation.

In summary, Prof Dr. Marialuisa Gandolfi's academic pursuits, professional endeavors, research focus, accolades, and future contributions collectively underscore her pivotal role in advancing the field of neurorehabilitation and leaving a lasting impact on the lives of patients and professionals alike.