Hülya Yılmaz Önal | Nutritional Science | Best Researcher Award

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Best Researcher Award

Hülya Yılmaz Önal
Istanbul Medeniyet University, Türkiye

Hülya Yılmaz Önal
Affiliation Istanbul Medeniyet University
Country Türkiye
Google Scholar z-7mD0oAAAAJ
Documents 35
Citations 93
h-index 7
Subject Area Nutritional Science and Functional Foods
Event International Food Scientists Awards

Hülya Yılmaz Önal is a Turkish academic and Associate Professor specializing in nutrition and dietetics. Her scholarly work focuses on obesity, sustainable nutrition, public health nutrition, Mediterranean dietary patterns, childhood nutrition, and nutritional epidemiology. Through research, postgraduate supervision, scientific publications, and administrative leadership, she has contributed to advancing evidence-based nutritional sciences and community health initiatives.[1]

Abstract

This article summarizes the academic achievements and research contributions of Hülya Yılmaz Önal. Her investigations encompass obesity management, vitamin D deficiency, sustainable nutrition, Mediterranean dietary adherence, emotional eating behavior, pediatric nutrition, and public health interventions. Her work integrates clinical nutrition, dietary assessment, and community health promotion, supporting evidence-based nutrition strategies across different population groups.[2]

Keywords

Nutrition, Dietetics, Obesity, Vitamin D, Mediterranean Diet, Sustainable Nutrition, Public Health Nutrition, Childhood Nutrition, Food Behavior, Nutritional Epidemiology.

Introduction

Nutrition science plays a critical role in disease prevention and health promotion. Associate Professor Hülya Yılmaz Önal has contributed significantly to this field through research on obesity, dietary behavior, nutritional sustainability, and population health. Her interdisciplinary perspective combines clinical, educational, and public health approaches to address contemporary nutritional challenges.[3]

Research Profile

Önal earned her Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Hacettepe University, completed her master’s degree in Catering Systems, and obtained a PhD in Nutrition and Dietetics from Okan University. She currently serves as Associate Professor at Istanbul Medeniyet University while holding several academic leadership positions, including Vice Dean and Head of Department responsibilities.[1]

Research Contributions

  • Research on obesity, vitamin D deficiency, and metabolic health.
  • Studies addressing sustainable nutrition and dietary behavior.
  • Investigations involving childhood nutrition and food literacy.
  • Supervision of postgraduate research in nutrition and dietetics.
  • Leadership of community-focused nutrition education projects.

Publications

  • Immunonutritional Indices, Inflammatory Markers, and Thyroid-Related Parameters in Adults with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (2026).
  • Artificial Intelligence Diet Plans Underestimate Nutrient Intake Compared to Dietitians in Adolescents (2026).
  • Dialogic Reading-Based Nutrition Education and Dietary Diversity in Preschool Children (2026).
  • Factors Associated with Weight Change During the COVID-19 Pandemic (2021).
  • The Effect of Weight Loss on Serum Vitamin D Levels in Obese Women (2017).

Research Impact

Her research has contributed to understanding dietary behaviors, obesity-related conditions, nutritional sustainability, and preventive health strategies. The findings support healthcare professionals, dietitians, educators, and policymakers in designing evidence-based interventions that improve nutritional awareness and long-term public health outcomes.[4]

Award Suitability

Based on her publication record, project leadership, postgraduate mentorship, and contributions to public health nutrition, Hülya Yılmaz Önal demonstrates strong qualifications for international recognition in nutrition and dietetics research. Her sustained academic productivity and institutional leadership further strengthen her suitability for research excellence awards.

Conclusion

Hülya Yılmaz Önal has established a notable academic profile within nutrition and dietetics through research, education, project leadership, and scientific dissemination. Her work addresses important public health challenges while promoting sustainable and evidence-based nutritional practices. Continued contributions from her research program are expected to further strengthen the scientific understanding of nutrition-related health outcomes.

External Links

References

  1. Istanbul Medeniyet University. Academic Profile of Hülya Yılmaz Önal. Faculty of Health Sciences.
  2. Önal, H.Y. et al. (2026). The impact of dialogic reading-based nutrition education on preschool children’s nutrition knowledge and dietary diversity. BMC Public Health. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12889-025-25792-5
  3. Önal, H.Y. & Alphan, M.E. (2017). The Effect of Weight Loss on Serum Vitamin D Levels in Obese Women with Vitamin D Deficiency.
  4. Önal, H.Y. et al. (2021–2026). Selected publications on obesity, sustainable nutrition, public health nutrition, and dietary behavior research.

Peter Makieu | Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Peter Makieu | Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Research Teaching Assistant at Njala University, Sierra Leone

Peter Makieu is a multidisciplinary researcher and academic with a strong foundation in Agribusiness Management, Computer Science, and Engineering. His work spans data analysis, machine learning applications in agriculture, food and nutrition research, and crop science. With published research in peer-reviewed Elsevier journals, he has demonstrated expertise in both scientific writing and research methodology. Peter’s academic and professional journey reflects a commitment to advancing sustainable agricultural systems, promoting nutrition security, and integrating digital technology in rural development.

Publications Profile

Orcid

Google Scholar

🎓 Education Details

  • Master of Science in Computer Science and Engineering
    Njala University, Sierra Leone – Graduation: February 2025

  • Master of Science in Agribusiness Management
    Njala University, Sierra Leone – Graduated with GPA: 4.67 (April 2021)

  • Bachelor of Science with Honors in Agribusiness Management
    Graduated with GPA: 4.58

  • Diploma in Computer Science
    Graduated with GPA: 4.50
    Minor: Computer Science

  • Languages: Fluent in English, Mende, and Krio

👩‍🔬 Professional Experience

Academic & Research Roles

  • Research Teaching Assistant, Njala University (Jan 2022 – Mar 2025)

    • Contributed to research, teaching, curriculum support, student mentoring, and data analysis.

  • Reviewer, Current Nutraceuticals Journal (April 2025)

    • Reviewed manuscripts, provided academic feedback, and upheld publication ethics.

  • Editorial Board Member, Botany Scientist Awards (March 2025)

    • Reviewed submissions and participated in award selection.

Administrative & Leadership Roles

  • Acting Principal & Lecturer, Ambassador Wurie Institute of Management and Technology College (Oct 2022 – July 2023)

    • Led academic administration, curriculum development, and stakeholder engagement.

Technical and Analytical Roles

  • Data Analyst, Office of the Vice President – Rice Value Chain Assessment (Oct 2023 – Dec 2024)

    • Conducted large-scale data analysis to support national agricultural initiatives.

  • Intern, Gold Tree Sierra Leone Limited (June – July 2021)

    • Worked on palm oil production and marketing with smallholder farmers.

  • National Electoral Commission (NEC) (March – April 2018)

    • Data Entry Officer for voter registration systems.

  • IT/ICT Officer and Tutor, Youth in Action for Development Sierra Leone (2014–2016)

    • Conducted ICT training for students and staff.

🌱 Research Interests

  1. Agribusiness

    • Sustainable business models in agriculture

    • Market analysis, global supply chains, and policy impact on agriculture

  2. Food and Nutrition

    • Nutrition security and access

    • Food safety in supply chains

    • Development of culturally relevant healthy food innovations

  3. Crop Science

    • Genetic improvement for yield and resilience

    • Agroecological practices and sustainable farming

    • Precision agriculture and smart farming technologies

  4. Machine Learning in Agriculture

    • Predictive analytics for crop yield

    • Data-driven farming via IoT and AI

    • Automation in agricultural processes

🏆 Awards and Honors

  • Generic Research Competency, Academic Staff Association, Njala University – March 2024

  • Best Graduating Student, Department of Agribusiness – April 2021

  • Research Abilities & Leadership Competencies, Sierra Leone Debating Council – April 2021

🔍 Conclusion

Peter Makieu is a dynamic academic with robust interdisciplinary training and a clear vision for integrating technology, research, and leadership in agricultural development. His career trajectory reflects a strong dedication to sustainability, innovation, and academic excellence. With proven expertise in both scientific and administrative roles, Peter is well-positioned to contribute significantly to research, policy, and educational initiatives within and beyond Sierra Leone.

Publications 📚

📘 1. Nutritional Study
Title: Nutritional values of cassava leaves in three districts, Kenema, Kailahun, and Bo, Sierra Leone
Journal: Food and Humanity Journal, Elsevier
Year: 2025
📍 Location: Sierra Leone
🌿 Keywords: Cassava leaves, Nutrition, Public health

📘 2. Agricultural Economics
Title: Assessing the Challenges Faced by Cocoa Farmers in Accessing Credit from Community Banks in Kailahun District, Sierra Leone
Journal: SSRN, Elsevier
Year: 2025
🍫 Keywords: Cocoa farming, Microfinance, Rural credit
📍 Location: Kailahun District, Sierra Leone

📘 3. AI Deployment Study
Title: Evaluating the Performance of AI Models Deployed on Edge Devices Versus Traditional Cloud Environments
Journal: Computers and Electrical Engineering Journal, Elsevier
Year: 2025
🤖 Keywords: Edge computing, AI performance, Cloud vs Edge

📘 4. Neural Network Research
Title: Evaluating the Efficiency and Performance of Minimalist Neural Network Architectures with Hybrid Activation Functions
Journal: Engineering Applications of Artificial Intelligence Journal, Elsevier
Year: 2025
🧠 Keywords: Neural networks, AI architectures, Activation functions

Terhi Junkkari | Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Terhi Junkkari | Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Principal lecturer at University of Turku/Seinajoki University of Applied Sciences, Finland

Dr. Terhi Junkkari is a seasoned expert in food science and consumer research with a strong academic background and over two decades of experience spanning academia, research, and the food industry. Currently a Principal Lecturer at Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences (SeAMK), Finland, she has held leadership roles including Dean of the School of Food and Agriculture. Her work bridges nutrition science, food development, and sustainable food systems, contributing to over 30 peer-reviewed publications and nearly 100 other scientific reports. She actively engages in EU-funded projects focused on food sustainability and innovation.

Publications Profile

Scopus

Orcid

🎓 Education Details

  • D.Sc. (Food Science/Nutrition) – University of Helsinki, 2001
    Thesis: The effect of vitamin D status on calcium and bone metabolism

  • M.Sc. (Human Nutrition) – University of Helsinki, 1994
    Thesis: Effect of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 on arachidonic acid metabolism in rat thyroid cells

  • Professional Teacher Education (Pedagogical Qualification) – Häme University of Applied Sciences, 2016

👩‍🔬 Professional Experience

Current Role:

  • Principal Lecturer, Food Science & Consumer Research, Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences (2022–present)

Previous Roles:

  • Dean, School of Food and Agriculture, SeAMK (2019–2021)

  • Lecturer, Food Development, SeAMK (2018)

  • Director, Business Unit Finland, Analyse2, Espoo (2015–2018)

  • Senior Manager, Professional Services Finland, Analyse2 (2008–2015)

  • Product Developer, Saarioinen Ltd, Tampere (2000–2008)

🌱 Research Interests

  • Nutrition labeling and consumer behavior

  • Product development for health and sustainability

  • Vitamin D and bone/calcium metabolism

  • Sustainable and future-oriented food systems

  • Public health nutrition and ready-to-eat food evaluation

  • Applied food science in foodservice and catering contexts

Ongoing EU-Funded Projects:

  • FOODPathS (2022–2025): Co-creating safe and sustainable food systems

  • FutureFoodS (2024–2030): European Partnership for future sustainable food systems

  • Future Frami Food Lab (2023–2025): Development of a regional food lab for innovation

🏆 Awards and Honors

  • Board Member, Association of Clinical and Public Health Nutritionists in Finland (RTY), 2006–2007

  • Chair, Sustainability and Responsibility Working Group, SeAMK, 2019–2022

  • Multiple professional certifications including hygiene passport, project management, and leadership training

🔍 Conclusion

Dr. Terhi Junkkari combines deep scientific expertise with practical industry and educational experience, making her a leading voice in nutrition-focused food science. Her academic contributions, leadership in sustainability initiatives, and engagement in EU research projects illustrate her commitment to advancing food system innovation and public health. Her research continues to impact both scientific understanding and real-world food development strategies.

Publications 📚

📄 Title: The effect of nutrition labels on lunch buffet consumption: a real-life experiment
👥 Authors: Junkkari, T.; Kantola, M.; Arjanne, L.; Luomala, H.T.; Hopia, A.I.
📚 Journal: British Food Journal
📅 Year: 2023
🔓 Access: Open Access
🔗 DOI/Link: (Insert DOI or URL if available)
📝 Article Type: Research Article
🔍 Keywords: Nutrition labels, Consumer behavior, Buffet consumption, Real-life experiment