Dr. Baye Dagnew Mekonnon | Medicine and Dentistry | Best Researcher Award 

Dr. Baye Dagnew Mekonnon is a dedicated medical researcher and academic with expertise in epidemiology, public health, and chronic disease management, particularly focusing on sleep, pain, and quality of life in neurological and metabolic conditions. He earned his Ph.D. in Medical Studies (Epidemiology) from the University of Tasmania, Australia, where his thesis on “Sleep and Pain in Multiple Sclerosis” produced five original research contributions and advanced the understanding of symptom burden in people with multiple sclerosis. He also holds a Master of Science degree in Medical Physiology from Jimma University, Ethiopia, and a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the University of Gondar. Over the course of his career, he has accumulated more than eight years of teaching, clinical, and research experience, serving as a lecturer, MSc supervisor, and internal examiner at the University of Gondar before joining the Menzies Institute for Medical Research in Australia. His professional journey includes active involvement in large-scale projects such as the Australian Multiple Sclerosis Longitudinal Study and global collaborations through the Global Burden of Disease initiative. Dr. Baye Dagnew Mekonnon has authored over 70 peer-reviewed publications in reputable journals, contributing significantly to the fields of epidemiology, neurology, sleep research, and chronic disease epidemiology, with his work widely cited in international literature. His methodological expertise spans survey design, advanced statistical modeling, longitudinal and mixed-methods research, and data analysis using multiple software platforms, alongside substantial experience in ethics applications and governance. His research interests lie in exploring the intersections between sleep, pain, comorbidities, and mental health in chronic disease populations, with an emphasis on translating evidence into patient-centered interventions and health policies. In addition, he has engaged in research translation projects, including the development of educational resources for people with multiple sclerosis, while also presenting his work at national and international conferences. Dr. Baye Dagnew Mekonnon’s scholarship demonstrates a strong balance of academic rigor, innovation, and community relevance, underpinned by a collaborative and impact-driven approach. With his proven research excellence, teaching experience, and international collaborations, he is poised to continue making influential contributions to global health research, advancing understanding of complex chronic conditions, and shaping the future of epidemiological studies worldwide.