Learn more about Lilian M. Azzopardi
Lilian M. Azzopardi
Professor of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta
Introducing Professor Lilian M. Azzopardi, BPharm (Hons), MPhil, PhD, MRPharmS, FFIP, FESCP – a distinguished Professor of Pharmacy at the University of Malta, where she holds the position of Head of Department of Pharmacy and Chairperson of the Doctoral Committee within the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery.
Professor Azzopardi is renowned for her pioneering contributions to pharmacy education, leading the way in introducing transformative methodologies. Notably, she spearheaded the innovative post-graduate international doctorate in pharmacy, a collaborative effort between the University of Malta and the University of Illinois at Chicago, further solidifying her position as a visionary educator.
A trailblazer in her field, Professor Azzopardi is highly esteemed for her ability to integrate fundamental sciences with practical applications, catering to the diverse needs of stakeholders. Her ingenuity is evident through the development of experiential learning activities and interprofessional education experiences at both undergraduate and post-graduate levels, fostering a holistic approach to learning.
Recognized for her research excellence, she has received prestigious awards from the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) and the European Society of Clinical Pharmacy, a testament to her significant contributions to advancing pharmaceutical sciences.
Professor Azzopardi’s global influence is further demonstrated by her roles as co-chair of the working group for the FIP Nanjing Statements on Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences Education and as a core team member for the FIP Digital Health in Pharmacy Education initiative. Additionally, she serves as the chair-elect of the Advisory Group of the Academic Institutional Membership (AIM) within FIP.
Beyond her academic achievements, Professor Azzopardi is currently esteemed as the President of the European Association of Faculties of Pharmacy, embodying her dedication to advancing pharmacy education and promoting excellence across Europe.
In summary, Professor Lilian M. Azzopardi is a trailblazing academic leader whose contributions to pharmacy education and research have earned her international acclaim. Her visionary approach and commitment to excellence continue to shape the future of pharmacy education and practice, inspiring generations of students and professionals alike. We are honored to have her as a distinguished speaker at our conference.
Learn more about Ronald M. Harden
Ronald M. Harden
Professor of Medical Education (Emeritus), University of Dundee, Scotland
Introducing Professor Ronald M. Harden OBE, MD, FRCP(Glas), FRCS(Ed), FRCPC, a renowned authority in the field of medical education and an esteemed Professor of Medical Education (Emeritus) at the University of Dundee, United Kingdom.
With a background in medicine, Professor Harden’s journey began as an endocrinologist before transitioning to a full-time career in medical education, where he made an indelible mark. As Editor-in-Chief of Medical Teacher and former General Secretary and Treasurer of the Association for Medical Education in Europe (AMEE), his commitment to excellence in medical education is evident.
Throughout his illustrious career, Professor Harden has been a pioneer of innovative approaches to curriculum planning, assessment, teaching, and learning. Notably, he is credited with introducing the groundbreaking Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE), a widely adopted standard for assessing clinical competence. His contributions also encompass the development of the spiral curriculum and the influential SPICES model, both instrumental in shaping modern medical education.
A prolific author, Professor Harden’s works span more than 400 papers published in esteemed journals. Notably, he has co-edited essential resources such as “A Practical Guide for Medical Teachers” and the “Routledge International Handbook of Medical Education.” Additionally, he is a co-author of influential books including “Essential Skills for a Medical Teacher,” “The Definitive Guide to the OSCE,” “Eight Roles of the Medical Teacher,” and “The Changing Role of Medical Students.”
His exceptional contributions to medical education have garnered international recognition and prestigious awards. Notably, he was honored with the Karolinska Institutet Prize for Research in Medical Education, often equated to the Nobel Prize in medical education. In recognition of his services, he was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Queen Elizabeth II.
Internationally acclaimed, Professor Harden was bestowed with the Gusi Peace Prize for his outstanding contributions to medical education during a ceremony in Manila. Furthermore, he received the honorary degree of Doctor of Laws from the University of Dundee, further solidifying his impact on the global medical education landscape.
Recently, he was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the President of the National University of Singapore at the 2023 Asia-Pacific Medical Education Conference (APMEC), further exemplifying the profound impact of his work on a global scale.
With an enduring dedication to elevating medical education, Professor Ronald M. Harden stands as a beacon of excellence, inspiring educators and shaping the future of medical learning and practice. We are privileged to have him as a distinguished speaker at our conference, and his insights will undoubtedly enrich our academic discourse.
Learn more about Menico Rizzi
Menico Rizzi
Professor of Biochemistry at University of Piemonte Orientale, Italy
Introducing Professor Menico Rizzi, an esteemed academic and researcher with a diverse portfolio of achievements, currently affiliated with multiple prestigious institutions.
As a Full Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Piemonte Orientale, Italy, Professor Rizzi holds an outstanding academic background, graduating with honors in Chemistry and obtaining a PhD in Industrial Biotechnology. His academic journey has taken him to renowned research institutions globally, including EMBL-Hamburg (Germany), University of York (UK), University of Kyoto (Japan), and the National Institute for Infectious Diseases in Tokyo (Japan), where he engaged in groundbreaking research with the support of prestigious fellowships.
Professor Rizzi has been a driving force in advancing academia and research evaluation. He is a notable member of the Board of Directors of ANVUR (Italian National Agency for the evaluation of Universities and Research Centres) since April 2020, where he leads the coordination of evaluations in the biomedical area, Doctoral programs, and research evaluation. Additionally, he is a valued member of the Steering Board of the global initiative CoARA – Coalition for Advancing research assessment.
Throughout his career, Professor Rizzi has held influential positions, such as Coordinator of the Evaluation Committee of the Universities of Piemonte Orientale and Genova, Deputy Rector for research at the University of Piemonte Orientale, and coordinator of the PhD program in Pharmaceutical Biotechnologies at the same university.
Beyond academia, he is a co-founder of the Academic spin-off iXTAL, exemplifying his commitment to bridging research and practical applications.
Notably, Professor Rizzi has played an integral role in international organizations, serving as an expert at the World Health Organization for the International Nonproprietary Name (INN) program. He also contributes significantly as a vice-chair for biological drugs and a member of the Steering Committee of the WHO initiative “School of INN.” Additionally, he is actively involved in the development of the “African Union – European Union Innovation Agenda,” showcasing his dedication to global research initiatives.
Professor Rizzi’s research expertise centers on the biochemistry and structural biology of proteins relevant to poverty-linked diseases, cancer, and cognitive impairment. His work has garnered substantial support from prestigious funding sources, including the European Commission, the Italian Ministry of University and Research, the Italian Ministry of Health, the Piedmont Region, private foundations, and chemical and pharmaceutical companies.
As a seasoned speaker and organizer, he has participated in numerous national and international congresses and schools under the patronage of UNESCO, further enriching academic discourse and knowledge dissemination.
In summary, Professor Menico Rizzi is a trailblazing academic leader with a profound impact on medical and biochemistry research. His multifaceted roles in prominent institutions and his dedication to promoting excellence in research evaluation and global initiatives make him an invaluable speaker at our conference.
Learn more about David Taylor
David Taylor
Professor of Medical Education and Physiology at the Gulf Medical University in Ajman
Introducing Professor David C.M. Taylor, a distinguished academic and scholar in the field of medical education and physiology, currently serving as Professor of Medical Education and Physiology at the Gulf Medical University in Ajman.
Professor Taylor’s academic achievements are extensive, holding multiple accolades, including a BSc (hons), MEd, MA, PhD, and EdD. He is a Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (PFHEA) and was honored with a UK National Teaching Fellowship in 2009, recognizing his exceptional contributions to education.
His commitment to medical education is further highlighted by his fellowships with prestigious organizations such as the Academy of Medical Educators and the Association for Medical Education in Europe (AMEE). Moreover, he is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology (FRSB), signifying his substantial impact in the field.
At Gulf Medical University, Professor Taylor plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between educational practices and cutting-edge research in medical education. As the Director of the Center for Leadership and Innovation in Health Professions Education, he spearheads efforts to ensure that undergraduate and postgraduate education is informed by the latest advancements in the field.
Professor Taylor’s contributions extend to the realm of publication and editorial leadership. He serves as the Editor of the AMEE guides, published online, as booklets, and in the esteemed journal “Medical Teacher.” His editorial expertise also extends to the editorial boards of “Medical Teacher” and “MedEdPublish.”
With a profound passion for research, Professor Taylor has authored over 170 papers in education and science, published in peer-reviewed, high-impact journals. Additionally, he has contributed to over 200 abstracts, responses, and letters, solidifying his influence in the academic community.
Recently, Professor Taylor’s focus has shifted towards the exploration of artificial intelligence and its practical applications in the laboratory, along with the ethical challenges surrounding its implementation in medical education. His work in this area contributes significantly to the advancement of medical research and pedagogy.
Acknowledging his global impact, Professor Taylor holds the esteemed title of Visiting Professor at the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University Medical School in China. He is also recognized as an Honorary Fellow of the Institute for Public Health and Policy and the Centre for Higher Education Studies at the University of Liverpool.
In summary, Professor David C.M. Taylor stands as a prominent figure in the field of medical education and physiology, enriching the landscape of education and research through his diverse contributions. His role as an academic leader, researcher, and editor makes him a valuable addition to our conference, and we eagerly anticipate his insights and expertise.
Learn more about Álvaro Fides Valero
Álvaro Fides Valero
Telecommunication Engineer at Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV), Spain
Introducing Álvaro Fides Valero, a Telecommunication Engineer based at the Polytechnic University of Valencia (UPV), Spain.
Graduating as a Telecommunication Engineer from UPV in 2007, Álvaro has built an impressive career spanning 15 years in the department of Health and Wellbeing Technologies (SABIEN) at the ITACA Institute of UPV. His journey began as a software developer, and over time, he has assumed roles of increasing responsibility, eventually becoming a project coordinator for multiple European research projects.
Álvaro’s expertise lies at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies, particularly in the fields of Internet of Things (IoT) and Ambient Assisted Living (AAL). He has been deeply involved in various projects centered around the universAAL IoT Platform, contributing significantly to its development and its large-scale deployment.
In recent years, Álvaro has expanded his focus to explore the convergence of healthcare, IoT, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Process Mining, and education. This diverse exploration has led him to undertake projects that bring together these domains seamlessly. Notably, he has served as the coordinator for the Escape4Health project, a venture under the Erasmus+ program aimed at developing escape rooms for healthcare curricula. This unique project leverages innovative approaches to enhance healthcare education and training.
As a Telecommunication Engineer with extensive experience in research coordination and a proven track record of success in European projects, Álvaro Fides Valero’s expertise and insights are eagerly anticipated at our conference. We are excited to have him as a distinguished speaker, where his knowledge and contributions will undoubtedly enrich our discussions and inspire fellow researchers and practitioners.
Learn more about Ken Masters
Ken Masters
Associate Professor of Medical Informatics in the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Sultanate of Oman
Ken Masters has an MA from Rodes University, South Africa, and a PhD in Medical Informatics from University of Cape Town, South Africa. He also has several education and education management qualifications from the universities of Rhodes, Stellenbosch and Cape Town. He is currently Associate Professor of Medical Informatics in the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Sultanate of Oman.
He has been involved in education and medical education for several decades, and his presentations and publications tend to focus on medical informatics’ issues within the context of medical education. These publications have included several AMEE Guides, including Artificial Intelligence in Medical Education, Ethical teaching in online medical education, and Artificial Intelligence Ethics Issues in Health Professions Education.
He is on the Editorial Boards of Medical Teacher, MedEdPublish and BMC Medical Education. He has been involved in several AMEE projects, and serves on the AMEE Technology-Enhanced Learning Committee.
ORCID: 0000-0003-3425-5020
Learn more about Liviu Oprea
Liviu Oprea
Professor of Bioethics at “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Iasi
Introducing Professor Liviu Oprea, an eminent scholar deeply dedicated to the realm of bioethics. With a wealth of expertise and substantial contributions, Professor Oprea has played a pivotal role in elevating the dialogue pertaining to ethical deliberations within the medical sphere.
Professor Oprea serves as a beacon of knowledge in the realm of bioethics, holding the esteemed position of Professor of Bioethics at Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Iasi. His educational journey is marked by a PhD from the prestigious University of Adelaide and a Master’s degree in Bioethics from Case Western Reserve University. His academic achievements lay a strong foundation for his invaluable insights into the complex interplay of ethics and healthcare.
At the heart of Professor Oprea’s dedication lies a profound passion for nurturing the next generation of medical professionals. He channels his extensive expertise to enlighten aspiring doctors through his impactful Bioethics courses. Professor Oprea’s commitment to cultivating ethically responsible medical practitioners showcases his unwavering dedication to the betterment of healthcare.
Professor Oprea has cultivated a rich tapestry of research endeavors, notably centered on qualitative investigations into the doctor-patient relationship. His insightful contributions extend to ethical intricacies in primary chronic care and public health ethics, illuminating vital perspectives on some of the most pressing issues in healthcare today.
His versatile expertise extends to interdisciplinary teaching in both clinical ethics and public health ethics, fostering a holistic understanding of the intricate ethical challenges that arise within medical practice and healthcare systems.
Professor Oprea’s impact reverberates through his extensive scholarly contributions, with over 30 published articles in the field of bioethics. His work serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to advancing ethical dialogues within the realm of medicine. Additionally, he has authored five seminal books, each delving into the intricate fabric of bioethical dilemmas and their reverberations in contemporary society.
Learn more about Dorica Dan
Dorica Dan
President of the Romanian National Alliance for Rare Diseases – RONARD
Dorica initiated RPWA (Romanian Prader Willi Association) in 2003, established RONARD (Romanian National Alliance for Rare Diseases) through a project funded by CEE Trust in 2007 and Romanian Rare Cancers Association in 2011. She has taken part in the opening of the first Centre for Information about Rare Genetic Diseases in Romania and initiated the National Plan for Rare Diseases in Romania. In June 2011 she has opened the Pilot Reference Center for Rare Diseases “NoRo” through a project implemented in partnership with Frambu Norway and funded by Norway Grants.
Today she is the chair of the Romanian Prader Willi Association, Romania (RPWA); president of the Romanian National Alliance for Rare Diseases(RONARD); president of the Romanian Association for Rare Cancers and the coordinator of the Centre for Information about Rare Genetic Diseases and NoRo Center. She is member of IPWSO (International Prader Willi Syndrome Organization) board, and is currently a EURORDIS EUROPLAN advisor.
Dorica represents EURORDIS at International Conferences throughout Europe and beyond, and is part of the Commission Expert Group on Rare Diseases. She is a member of the Programme Committee for the EURORDIS Conference on Rare Diseases and Orphan Products 2016 Edinburgh. Dorica is also part of the interim working group for the European Year for Rare Diseases. She is the Work Package leader of the EUCERD Joint Action Working for Rare Diseases (EJA) Work Package 6 focusing on Specialised Social Services, and is a member of the Council of National Alliances.