Pascal Vollenweider | Software Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Pascal Vollenweider| Software Engineering | Best Researcher Award

Biomechanical Engineer | Straumann Group| Switzerland

Mr. Pascal Vollenweider is a highly skilled biomechanical engineer whose work bridges mechanical engineering and biomedical science, with a strong focus on orthodontic biomechanics and laser-based material processing. He currently serves as a Biomechanical Engineer at Ortho RDI, Institut Straumann AG in Basel, where he specializes in in-vitro testing of clear aligners and the development of advanced experimental methods. He holds a Master of Science in Life Science with a specialization in Biomedical Engineering from FHNW Muttenz (2020–2023), where his thesis on the Biomechanical Investigation of Orthodontic Tooth Movements Induced by Clear Aligners earned the highest distinction, demonstrating his ability to integrate engineering precision with biological understanding to enhance clinical orthodontic applications. His earlier academic training includes a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from FHNW Brugg-Windisch, with a focus on Production Engineering, where his research on Laser Machining of PEEK for Security Features on Surfaces reflected his proficiency in high-precision manufacturing and materials science. Professionally, he has contributed to the Institute for Product and Production Engineering at FHNW, engaging in laser-based surface structuring, supervising student research, and supporting industrial collaborations. His multidisciplinary expertise enables him to contribute to the development of next-generation orthodontic devices and biomedical solutions that combine mechanical innovation with patient-centered design. Fluent in German, English, and French, Vollenweider demonstrates strong potential for global collaboration and continued research excellence. His work embodies a commitment to innovation, scientific rigor, and societal benefit through engineering-driven advancements in healthcare technology.

Featured Publication

Vollenweider, P. (2023). Validation of the quantitative case analysis method for measuring orthodontic tooth movement. Journal of Biomedical Engineering and Orthodontic Research, 15(2), 145–156.

Caitlin Kent | Open Source | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Caitlin Kent | Open Source | Best Researcher Award

Honours Student | University of Wollongong | Australia

Ms. Caitlin Kent has built a distinguished career in nursing and health research, with a particular focus on global and tropical health, immunisation programs, and community-based research. Her role at the Menzies School of Health Research demonstrates expertise in coordinating participant recruitment, conducting mixed-methods and qualitative research, and presenting findings to stakeholders and policy partners. Caitlin’s work contributes to the advancement of public health initiatives aimed at addressing disease prevention and improving healthcare outcomes in diverse populations. Her professional experience spans both clinical and research settings, including emergency departments, acute care, and neurological wards, where she has developed critical skills in patient management, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration. As part of the “B Part of it NT” Meningococcal B vaccine study, Caitlin engaged in public health research focused on vaccination coverage and disease control in Northern Territory communities. Her work as a Nurse Immuniser during the Covid-19 and Influenza vaccination rollout further reflects her dedication to preventive healthcare and rural outreach. In addition to her clinical expertise, Caitlin’s engagement in leadership and mentorship programs—such as the Menzies Leadership Development Program, Emerging Research Leadership Program, and Catalyse Mentorship Program—highlights her commitment to advancing research capacity and promoting women in STEMM. Her recognition through academic awards and participation in professional development programs underscores a strong foundation in evidence-based practice and applied health research. Through her ongoing Honours in Nursing and active involvement in multidisciplinary research initiatives, Caitlin continues to contribute to improving healthcare delivery, fostering community health awareness, and strengthening the integration of clinical practice with research innovation across Australia’s tropical and remote health landscape.

Profile:  ORCID
Featured Publication

Kent, C., & Halcomb, E. (2025). Nurses’ experiences of mental health care in the emergency department: An integrative review. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 34(9–10), 1–15.