Neuro-ophthalmology 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.

Assoc Prof Dr. Pasquale Viggiano - Ophthalmology - Young Scientist Award

University of Bari: Universita degli Studi di Bari Aldo Moro - Italy

Author Profile

Early Academic Pursuits

Assoc Prof Dr. Pasquale Viggiano began his academic journey with a solid foundation in medicine, graduating from the Catholic University of Sacred Heart in Rome in 2015. During his undergraduate years, he engaged in clinical and research electives, demonstrating a keen interest in ophthalmology. His early exposure to the field provided him with valuable insights and experiences, laying the groundwork for his future endeavors.

Professional Endeavors

After completing his medical degree, Viggiano pursued further specialization in ophthalmology, undertaking a residency program at the University G. D'Annunzio Chieti-Pescara from 2016 to 2020. Under the guidance of esteemed mentors such as Prof. Leonardo Mastropasqua and Prof. Paolo Carpineto, he honed his skills and deepened his understanding of ocular health and diseases.

Following his residency, Viggiano embarked on fellowships and research positions to broaden his expertise. He completed a fellowship in cataract surgery at the Eye Research Center and Dr. Agarwal's Eye Hospital, further enhancing his surgical proficiency. Subsequently, he held researcher positions at prestigious institutions like the IRCCS-Fondazione Bietti in Rome and the University of Bari "Aldo Moro."

Contributions and Research Focus

Assoc Prof Dr. Viggiano's contributions to ophthalmic research are extensive and impactful. His publications cover a wide array of topics ranging from retinal imaging and vascular changes in age-related macular degeneration to innovative approaches in cataract surgery and anterior capsule contraction syndrome management. Through his collaborative efforts, he has advanced the understanding of various ocular conditions and contributed valuable insights to the scientific community.

His research focus revolves around utilizing advanced imaging techniques such as optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) to investigate retinal and choroidal vascular changes in ocular diseases. By elucidating the pathophysiology of these conditions, Viggiano aims to improve diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic interventions, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.

Accolades and Recognition

Assoc Prof Dr. Viggiano's exceptional contributions have garnered recognition within the ophthalmic community. His co-authored publications have been featured in esteemed journals, reflecting the high quality and significance of his research endeavors. Additionally, his collaborative efforts with renowned clinicians and researchers underscore his standing as a respected figure in the field.

Impact and Influence

Assoc Prof Dr. Viggiano's work has made a significant impact on both clinical practice and academic discourse. By elucidating novel insights into ocular pathologies and treatment modalities, he has influenced clinical decision-making and contributed to the development of innovative therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, his publications serve as valuable educational resources for ophthalmologists and researchers worldwide, shaping the future direction of ocular research and patient care.

Legacy and Future Contributions

As a dedicated clinician-scientist, Viggiano's legacy lies in his commitment to advancing the frontiers of ophthalmic knowledge and improving patient outcomes. His multifaceted approach, combining clinical expertise with cutting-edge research, paves the way for continued innovation and progress in the field. With a passion for discovery and a drive to make a difference, Viggiano is poised to leave a lasting imprint on ophthalmology, inspiring future generations to push the boundaries of scientific inquiry and clinical practice.