INTERNATIONAL BEST RESEARCHER AWARD in Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Neurodevelopment, Rehabilitation, Inclusive Education and Clinical Research

Scientific Research Center of APAE São Lourenço and Grupo Unis, Brazil

Dr. Fernanda Ribeiro Marins is a Brazilian scientist, educator, researcher, healthcare leader, and entrepreneur dedicated to advancing science, education, innovation, and healthcare excellence. Her multidisciplinary career integrates research, teaching, leadership, and institutional development, with a strong commitment to generating social impact through knowledge. She holds degrees in Physiotherapy and Pedagogy and earned her Master’s degree, PhD, and Postdoctoral Fellowship in Physiology and Pharmacology from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), one of Brazil’s leading research institutions. During her doctoral studies, she completed an international research program at Augusta University, USA, expanding her expertise in cardiovascular physiology and autonomic regulation. Dr. Marins is currently a Professor at UNIS São Lourenço and serves as a Professor and Graduate Advisor in the Master’s Program of FEPESMIG–Grupo Unis, where she mentors researchers and contributes to scientific production in health, education, and regional development. Throughout her academic career, she has participated in numerous research projects, scientific publications, and presentations at national and international conferences. Beyond academia, she has become a recognized leader in healthcare education and innovation. Her work focuses on strengthening healthcare, educational, and social institutions through professional development, scientific research, leadership training, and evidence-based management. She has collaborated with organizations such as APAE São Lourenço, Hospital São Lourenço, Hospital de Olhos do Sul de Minas, Clínica Dom Pedro, and other healthcare institutions, promoting innovation and continuous improvement. Among her most significant achievements are the creation of the Scientific Research Center at APAE São Lourenço, the Scientific Excellence Center at Clínica Dom Pedro, and the development of major scientific initiatives, including the Research Day events of Southern Minas Gerais and Hospital São Lourenço. She also contributed to the establishment of the scientific journal Vida & Saúde, registered with DOI and ISSN identifiers. Her leadership has directly supported the development of medical residency programs and scientific projects that have impacted more than 3,000 professionals, students, healthcare workers, and community members. Dr. Marins has received several awards recognizing her contributions to science, education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship, including the Special CREFITO-4 Award for Excellence in Healthcare Management and Entrepreneurship, the Nair Castro de Oliveira Honorary Medal, and multiple commendations from public and academic institutions. She is also a bestselling author through the collaborative book Women Who Transform: 90 Days of Inspiration. Married and the proud mother of Mariana, Dr. Marins believes that knowledge should be transformed into meaningful action. Through her work as a researcher, educator, mentor, and leader, she continues to inspire professionals and institutions while promoting innovation, inclusion, and sustainable development in healthcare and education.