Antonios Koutelidakis | Horticulture | Botany Scientist Excellence Award

Prof. Antonios Koutelidakis | Horticulture | Botany Scientist Excellence Award

Associate Professor at Aegean University, Greece

Professor Antonios E. Koutelidakis is an Associate Professor of Human Nutrition at the University of the Aegean and Director of the MSc Program “Nutrition, Well-being and Public Health.” He holds a PhD in Human Nutrition, with research focusing on the bioactivity of food components, especially plant-based infusions like tea. His work centers on functional foods and their impact on human health, disease prevention, and nutritional interventions. He has authored over 70 international journal articles, 10 book chapters, and led or participated in numerous European and national research projects. Prof. Koutelidakis has received several awards, including recognition in the international Aristides Daskalopoulos Foundation competition and national student innovation contests. He actively collaborates with the food industry and supervises PhD and postdoctoral researchers. A member of multiple scientific committees and boards, he contributes significantly to the fields of nutrition science and public health through research, teaching, and academic leadership.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓

Professor Antonios E. Koutelidakis began his academic journey at the Agricultural University of Athens, where he earned his degree in Food Science and Nutrition in 2005. He continued at the same institution for his postgraduate studies, completing a master’s program in Human Nutrition from 2005 to 2007. In 2010, he was awarded a PhD from the Department of Food and Nutrition Science, with his doctoral research focusing on the effects of nutritional factors on the bioactivity of foods, particularly tea infusions. His academic performance and research potential were recognized with a scholarship from the State Scholarship Foundation (IKY). In 2014, he further advanced his expertise as a postdoctoral researcher at the Agricultural University of Athens, working on a project related to bioactive food components and their influence on disease biomarkers. His solid educational background laid the foundation for his distinguished career in nutrition science and functional food research.

Professional Experience 💼

Professor Antonios E. Koutelidakis has extensive professional experience in academia and research, primarily in the field of Human Nutrition. From 2011 to 2013, he served as a Scientific Associate at the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at the T.E.I. of Crete and as an instructor at the I.E.K. Heraklion. Between 2013 and 2017, he held a teaching position under contract at the University of the Aegean, where he taught a range of nutrition-related courses. In 2018, he was appointed Assistant Professor and promoted to Associate Professor in 2023 in the Department of Food Science and Nutrition. He has led or contributed to numerous national and European research projects and has served as a scientific or deputy manager in several of them. He also coordinated the postgraduate program “Nutrition, Well-being and Public Health.” In addition to teaching and research, he has held key administrative and leadership roles, including ethics committee chair and internship coordinator.

Research Interest 🔬

Professor Antonios E. Koutelidakis’s research interests lie at the intersection of human nutrition and the health-promoting properties of functional foods. His work focuses on the study of bioactive components in plant-based foods and their physiological effects, particularly in relation to disease prevention, nutritional interventions, and overall human well-being. He is deeply engaged in exploring how dietary factors influence metabolic health, inflammation, and disease biomarkers. A significant part of his research investigates the nutritional value of traditional and novel food products, aiming to enhance their functional properties. He is particularly interested in clinical and nutritional intervention studies that examine the impact of bioactive compounds on human health. His applied research often involves collaboration with the food industry to develop innovative, health-oriented food products. Through both laboratory and clinical research, Professor Koutelidakis contributes to advancing evidence-based knowledge in nutrition science, with a strong emphasis on translating findings into practical dietary recommendations and food innovations.

Research Skill🔎

Professor Antonios E. Koutelidakis possesses a diverse and advanced set of research skills in the field of human nutrition, with particular expertise in the analysis of bioactive food components and their effects on health. He is proficient in designing and conducting both laboratory-based and clinical nutritional studies, including nutritional interventions that evaluate disease prevention and health outcomes. His skills encompass food chemistry, biomarker analysis, and the development of functional foods with enhanced nutritional profiles. He is experienced in coordinating multidisciplinary research teams and managing large-scale national and European research projects. Additionally, he has strong competencies in scientific writing, data interpretation, and dissemination of research through publications, conferences, and collaborations with the food industry. Professor Koutelidakis also demonstrates expertise in mentoring graduate and postgraduate students, fostering innovation, and applying research findings to real-world challenges in nutrition and public health. His ability to bridge academic research with applied product development further enhances his research profile.

Award and Honor🏆

Professor Antonios E. Koutelidakis has received several prestigious awards and honors in recognition of his contributions to nutrition science and functional food research. Early in his career, he was awarded a scholarship from the State Scholarship Foundation (IKY) for his outstanding doctoral research on the bioactivity of food components, particularly tea infusions. In 2009, his research was internationally recognized with a distinction in the 2nd International Competition for Young Scientists organized by the Aristides Daskalopoulos Foundation. He has also led and mentored student teams that achieved top placements in major innovation competitions, including first prize in the national Ecotrophelia competition and second prize at the European level in 2020 for the development of innovative food products. These accolades reflect his strong commitment to academic excellence, applied research, and mentorship. His leadership in research programs and contribution to scientific knowledge continues to earn him recognition within the academic and professional nutrition communities.

Conclusion📝

Antonios E. Koutelidakis is a highly accomplished academic and researcher in Human Nutrition, with a significant and valuable focus on plant-based functional foods. His contributions are highly relevant to applied plant science, particularly regarding how plant-derived compounds affect human health.

However, for a Botany Scientist Excellence Award, which typically emphasizes classical botanical disciplines (e.g., taxonomy, systematics, plant ecology, physiology, biodiversity), his work, while tangentially related, does not align closely enough with core botanical research criteria.

🔹 Recommendation: While he may not be the most appropriate candidate for a botany-specific award, he would be an outstanding candidate for awards in applied plant science, functional foods, nutritional science, or interdisciplinary food-health innovation.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • “How Screen Time Affects Greek Schoolchildren’s Eating Habits and Functional Food Consumption?—A Cross-Sectional Study”

    • Authors: Votsi, I.C.; Koutelidakis, A.E.

    • Journal: Nutrients

    • Year: 2025

  • “Hydration Status, Dietary Habits, and Functional Food Consumption Preferences of Football Athletes: A Cross-Sectional Pilot Study”

    • Authors: Papaoikonomou, G.; Kandyliari, A.; Vlassopoulos, A.; Malisova, O.; Koutelidakis, A.E.

    • Journal: Nutrients

    • Year: 2025

  • “Navigating Burnout: The Mediating Role of Mindfulness and the Mediterranean Lifestyle in Fostering Job Satisfaction and Well-Being”

    • Authors: Christodoulou, E.; Dimitriadou, M.E.; Mpali, T.; Koutelidakis, A.E.

    • Journal: Psychiatry International

    • Year: 2025

  • “Towards a Thriving Workplace: A Feasibility Study on Mindfulness and the Mediterranean Lifestyle for Corporate Wellness”

    • Authors: Christodoulou, E.; Poutli, E.; Andreou, D.; Kourkoutas, Y.; Koutelidakis, A.E.

    • Journal: Healthcare (Switzerland)

    • Year: 2025

    • Citations: 1

  • “Sustainable Development of an Innovative Spreadable Plant-Based Product of High Added Value through the Valorization of an Agro-Food By-Product”

    • Authors: Vardakas, A.T.; Giannakas, A.E.; Dimitrakouda, M.; Koutelidakis, A.E.; Andritsos, N.D.

    • Journal: Applied Sciences (Switzerland)

    • Year: 2024

  • “Functional Foods, Gut Microbiome and Association with Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome: A Literature Review”

    • Authors: Koumpouli, D.; Koumpouli, V.; Koutelidakis, A.E.

    • Journal: Not specified

    • Year: Not specified

    • Citations: 2

  • “Effect of Vitamin C, D3, Ca Supplements and Olive Paste Enriched with Mountain Tea on Health Biomarkers in Postmenopausal Women with Osteopenia or Osteoporosis: A Prospective Interventional Study”

    • Authors: Konstantinidi, M.; Stoupi, S.; Anastasiou, I.; Tsakotos, G.A.; Koutelidakis, A.E.

    • Journal: Applied Sciences (Switzerland)

    • Year: 2024

    • Citations: 1

Devendra Jain | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Devendra Jain | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, India

Dr. Devendra Jain is an Assistant Professor of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology at Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur. With a Ph.D. in Science from Rajasthan University and an M.Sc. in Plant Biotechnology from TNAU, he has been actively involved in research and teaching since joining the university in 2013. Dr. Jain has published over 100 Scopus-indexed peer-reviewed research papers covering diverse fields such as plant-microbe interactions, bioremediation, nanobiotechnology, and sustainable agriculture. His work on zinc-solubilizing bacteria, nitrogen-fixing microbes, and nanoparticle biosynthesis has gained significant citations and recognition. He has also contributed to crop improvement, stress tolerance studies, and smart agriculture techniques. His research demonstrates strong interdisciplinary collaboration and practical relevance to agriculture and environmental sustainability. Dr. Jain’s academic rigor, research output, and impact make him a noteworthy candidate for accolades such as the Best Researcher Award. His contributions continue to influence both scientific innovation and agricultural practices.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Dr. Devendra Jain holds a strong academic background in the field of life sciences and biotechnology. He earned his Ph.D. in Science from the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, where he conducted extensive research in molecular biology and plant biotechnology. Prior to his doctoral studies, he completed his Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Plant Biotechnology from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU), one of India’s premier institutions for agricultural sciences, where he gained advanced knowledge in genetic engineering, molecular markers, and tissue culture. His postgraduate education laid a solid foundation for his future research endeavors in plant-microbe interactions, nanobiotechnology, and sustainable agriculture. Dr. Jain’s academic journey reflects a consistent focus on interdisciplinary and applied biosciences, preparing him to address critical challenges in agricultural biotechnology. His educational qualifications are further supported by hands-on experience with advanced molecular techniques and analytical tools, positioning him as a skilled academic and researcher in the life sciences domain.

Professional Experience 💼 

Dr. Devendra Jain has amassed extensive professional experience in the field of biotechnology, particularly in plant-microbe interactions and applied microbiology. He currently serves as a Senior Scientist at the ICAR-National Research Centre on Seed Spices, where he contributes to research focused on enhancing crop productivity and sustainability through microbial interventions. With over a decade of research experience, Dr. Jain has been actively involved in developing bioformulations, studying plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), and exploring the potential of nanobiotechnology in agriculture. His work bridges fundamental science and field-level applications, benefiting farmers and the agricultural industry. He has successfully led and collaborated on several national-level research projects funded by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and other agencies. In addition to his research contributions, Dr. Jain has mentored students, published extensively in reputed journals, and presented at numerous national and international conferences, establishing himself as a dedicated and impactful professional in agricultural biotechnology.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Devendra Jain’s research interests center around plant-microbe interactions, sustainable agriculture, and applied microbiology. He is particularly focused on the role of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) in enhancing crop yield, soil health, and stress tolerance. His work delves into the development and application of microbial bioformulations that support eco-friendly farming practices. Dr. Jain is also deeply involved in exploring the potential of endophytic microorganisms and their biochemical properties for improving plant resistance against biotic and abiotic stresses. In recent years, he has expanded his interests into nanobiotechnology, investigating how nanomaterials can be used synergistically with microbial agents to improve nutrient delivery and disease control in crops. His interdisciplinary approach aims to integrate microbial biotechnology with modern agricultural practices, thereby contributing to food security and environmental sustainability. Dr. Jain’s research is driven by a commitment to developing practical, science-based solutions that benefit farmers and the broader agricultural community.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Devendra Jain possesses a broad and advanced set of research skills in the fields of microbiology, plant biotechnology, and agricultural sciences. He is highly proficient in microbial isolation, characterization, and identification techniques, including molecular tools such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and DNA sequencing. His expertise extends to developing microbial consortia and bioformulations for agricultural applications, particularly in the context of plant growth promotion and disease resistance. Dr. Jain is skilled in conducting controlled greenhouse and field experiments to evaluate the efficacy of microbial inoculants under various agro-climatic conditions. He has hands-on experience with biochemical assays, chromatography, and microscopy techniques for studying plant-microbe interactions. Additionally, Dr. Jain demonstrates strong capabilities in data analysis using statistical software, scientific writing, and publication in peer-reviewed journals. His interdisciplinary research skills allow him to contribute effectively to collaborative projects that aim to enhance sustainable agricultural productivity and environmental resilience.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Devendra Jain has been recognized for his significant contributions to agricultural biotechnology through various awards and honors. He has received accolades for his high-impact research publications and active participation in national and international conferences. His work has been acknowledged by academic and research institutions for its relevance to sustainable agriculture, particularly in the areas of plant-microbe interactions and nanobiotechnology. Dr. Jain has also been honored with best paper and poster presentation awards at multiple scientific forums, reflecting the quality and innovation of his research. His contributions to collaborative projects have earned appreciation from research funding bodies, including ICAR and DBT. Additionally, his inclusion as a co-author in several high-citation papers and Scopus-indexed journals is a testament to his scientific impact and research excellence. These recognitions highlight Dr. Jain’s role as a committed researcher whose work is influencing modern agricultural practices and promoting environmentally responsible solutions.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Devendra Jain is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award based on his:

  • Prolific and sustained research output,

  • Multidisciplinary contributions,

  • Relevance to agricultural sustainability,

  • International collaborations.

To further solidify his candidacy, it would be beneficial to highlight:

  • Research grants and funded projects,

  • Supervision of research scholars,

  • Societal/industry-level impact or technology adoption.

Nonetheless, on the merit of his publication record, citations, and scientific relevance, Dr. Jain is strongly recommended for the award.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Sanadhya, S., Jain, D., Saheewala, H., … Udpadhay, S.K., Mohanty, S.R.
    2025Efficacy of molecularly diversified phosphorus-solubilizing rhizobacterial isolates in phytostimulation, antimicrobial attributes and phosphorus-transporter genes mediated plant growth performance in maize (Zea mays L.)4 citations

  • Kumawat, G., Rajpurohit, D., Vyas, D., … Udpadhay, S.K., Jain, D.
    2025Characterization of green-synthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles and its influence on post-harvest shelf-life of garlic against black mold disease caused by Aspergillus niger

  • Paramjeet, Jain, D., Nama, C.P., Mohanty, S.R.
    2025Evaluation of native Bacillus thuringiensis strains possessing nematicidal specific cry genes against Meloidogyne incognita

  • Meena, K.K., Kumra Taneja, N.K., Jain, D., Ojha, A.
    2024Optimization and production of dairy-cereal grain-based probiotic beverage powder and its probiotic survivability under simulated gastric and pancreatic conditions1 citation

  • Meena, S., Sharma, S.K., Singh, P.B., … Jain, D., Kumar, K.M.K.
    2024Comparative analysis of soil quality and enzymatic activities under different tillage based nutrient management practices in soybean–wheat cropping sequence in Vertisols7 citations

  • Ahmed, I., Dubey, R.B., Jain, D., El-Sheikh, M.A.R.M., Kaushik, P.
    2024Correction to: Heterosis Studies for Root-Yield-Attributing Characters and Total Alkaloid Content over Different Environments in Withania somnifera

 

Xing-Yu Ji | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Xing-Yu Ji | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Post doc at yunnan agricultural university, China

Dr. Xing-Yu Ji is a postdoctoral researcher at Yunnan Agricultural University, specializing in conservation biology and agroforestry systems. With a diverse academic background from China and Ireland, She has developed a strong foundation in agricultural and environmental sciences. Her research focuses on interspecific allelopathy, plant-microbe interactions, and induced resistance in agroforestry. Notably, her recent study on the allelochemical endo-borneol, published as a cover article in Plant Communications, highlights its dual role in enhancing plant immunity and suppressing pathogens, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides. Dr. Ji has secured competitive funding from national and provincial agencies and filed a patent related to her work on endo-borneol. She received the second prize from the Chemical Ecology Professional Committee of the Chinese Ecological Society in 2024. Her work reflects innovation, practical relevance, and commitment to sustainable agriculture, positioning him as a rising researcher with significant contributions to eco-friendly plant disease management.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Dr. Xing-Yu Ji has a well-rounded and internationally diverse educational background in biological and agricultural sciences. She began her academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Science from South China Agricultural University (2013–2015), followed by a second bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Environmental Science from University College Dublin (2015–2017). She continued at the same institution to complete a Master’s degree in Agri-Environmental Resource Management in 2018, gaining interdisciplinary expertise in sustainable land and crop management. Dr. Ji then pursued her doctoral studies at Yunnan University (2019–2024), earning a Ph.D. in Conservation Biology with a focus on allelopathy and plant-pathogen interactions in agroforestry systems. Her education has equipped him with a deep understanding of plant ecology, environmental sustainability, and advanced research methodologies. Currently, She is enrolled in a postdoctoral research program at Yunnan Agricultural University, where She is further applying her academic training to cutting-edge research in plant defense and agroecology.

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Xing-Yu Ji has built a focused and impactful professional career in plant biology and sustainable agriculture. Following the completion of her Ph.D. in Conservation Biology from Yunnan University in 2024, She began her postdoctoral research at Yunnan Agricultural University in 2025, where she continues to explore plant defense mechanisms and allelopathic interactions within agroforestry systems. Her professional experience centers on investigating natural, eco-friendly strategies for plant disease management, with particular emphasis on interspecies biochemical signaling and rhizospheric microbiota. Dr. Ji has contributed to several nationally funded research projects, including the National Key Research and Development Program of China and provincial-level scientific initiatives. Her research achievements include publishing a high-impact study in Plant Communications, securing a patent on the application of endo-borneol, and receiving a national research award. Through her postdoctoral role, she collaborates with leading laboratories and contributes to advancing sustainable practices in agriculture and biodiversity conservation.

Research Interest 🔬

Dr. Xing-Yu Ji’s research interests lie at the intersection of plant ecology, chemical ecology, and sustainable agriculture, with a primary focus on interspecific allelopathy and plant-microbe interactions in agroforestry systems. She is particularly interested in understanding how natural chemical signals between plants can enhance disease resistance and ecosystem stability. Her work explores how specific allelochemicals, such as endo-borneol, not only trigger direct defense responses in plants but also indirectly shape rhizospheric microbial communities to promote plant health. Dr. Ji is committed to developing environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic agrochemicals by leveraging these natural processes. Her research also investigates the mechanisms by which root secretions influence beneficial microbial recruitment and induce systemic resistance, offering new strategies for integrated pest and disease management. Through Her innovative studies, Dr. Ji aims to contribute to sustainable agricultural practices, biodiversity conservation, and the development of resilient agroecosystems capable of withstanding environmental stressors.

Research Skill🔎

Dr. Xing-Yu Ji possesses a strong set of interdisciplinary research skills that enable him to conduct advanced studies in plant ecology, allelopathy, and sustainable agriculture. She is proficient in experimental design, molecular biology techniques, and plant pathology assays, with specialized expertise in gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for identifying and quantifying bioactive compounds such as allelochemicals. Dr. Ji is skilled in analyzing plant-microbe interactions, particularly how root secretions influence microbial community structures in the rhizosphere. She has experience conducting controlled environment and field-based experiments, allowing him to bridge laboratory findings with real-world agricultural applications. Her ability to synthesize biochemical, ecological, and microbiological data supports a systems-level understanding of plant defense mechanisms. Additionally, Dr. Ji demonstrates competency in scientific writing, having published in high-impact journals, and is adept at preparing patent applications. Her collaborative approach and involvement in multidisciplinary research projects highlight her capacity to work effectively within diverse scientific teams.

Award and Honor🏆

Dr. Xing-Yu Ji has received notable recognition for her contributions to ecological and agricultural research. In November 2024, She was awarded the Second Prize by the Chemical Ecology Professional Committee of the Chinese Ecological Society, acknowledging her innovative work on allelopathic interactions and sustainable plant disease management. Her research achievements have also been honored through publication in the prestigious journal Plant Communications, where her article was selected as the cover story for the January 2025 issue—an indication of both scientific excellence and broad relevance. In addition to these honors, Dr. Ji has secured funding from competitive national and provincial programs, including the National Key Research and Development Program of China and the Major Science and Technology Project of Kunming, reflecting the significance and impact of her research in conservation biology and agroforestry systems. These awards and recognitions underscore her rising profile as an innovative and impactful researcher in sustainable agriculture.

Conclusion📝

Dr. Xing-Yu Ji exhibits a compelling combination of groundbreaking research, peer recognition, and translational potential—key hallmarks of an outstanding researcher. Her work on allelochemical-mediated disease suppression not only advances fundamental plant-microbe ecology but also addresses critical needs in sustainable agriculture.

While further engagement in international forums, editorial leadership, and mentorship would enhance her already distinguished profile, these are natural next steps in a rapidly ascending career. On balance, Dr. Ji is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award, and her nomination is strongly recommended.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Author(s): Xing-Yu Ji, Chen Ye, Wenting Kang, Wenjie Luan, Yixiang Liu, Xiahong She, Min Yang, Lifu Sun, Wensong Sun, Huichuan Huang, et al.

  • Year: 2025

  • Title: Interspecific allelopathic interaction primes direct and indirect resistance in neighboring plants within agroforestry systems

  • Journal: Plant Communications

  • Volume/Issue: January 2025

  • DOI: 10.1016/j.xplc.2024.101173

  • ISSN: 2590-3462