Jianxiu Hao | Plant Pathology | Women Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jianxiu Hao | Plant Pathology | Women Researcher Award

Senior Agronomist at College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University | China

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jianxiu Hao is a dedicated scholar in the field of plant pathology, with a focus on the biological control of plant diseases and the application of beneficial microorganisms in agriculture. Her professional journey reflects a strong blend of academic excellence, research leadership, and practical innovation aimed at sustainable plant protection. She has contributed to advancing knowledge through impactful publications, books, and patents while playing an important role in the development of green agricultural practices. Her research addresses critical challenges in managing soil-borne plant diseases, particularly in economically important crops such as potatoes and strawberries. By integrating multidisciplinary approaches, she has developed solutions that combine molecular biology, microbiology, and applied agricultural sciences. Recognized for her contributions through various scientific awards and honors, Dr. Hao continues to lead research initiatives that not only expand academic understanding but also offer tangible benefits to agricultural productivity and food security.

Professional Profile 

Education

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jianxiu Hao completed her doctoral studies in plant pathology, establishing a strong academic foundation in the study of plant diseases and their management. Her doctoral research focused on the mechanisms of biological control and the role of functional microorganisms in enhancing plant resistance. This advanced training allowed her to explore innovative techniques for combating soil-borne pathogens, providing both theoretical insights and practical methods for disease management. Throughout her education, she developed expertise in molecular techniques, microbial screening, and pathogen interaction analysis. Her academic training was complemented by active involvement in collaborative projects, academic writing, and contributions to textbooks and teaching materials, enhancing her profile as both a researcher and an educator. The educational journey of Dr. Hao has been distinguished by a consistent emphasis on excellence, innovation, and the pursuit of knowledge that directly contributes to solving real-world challenges in sustainable agriculture and plant health management.

Professional Experience

Over the course of her professional career, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jianxiu Hao has established herself as a respected academic and researcher in plant pathology. As an associate professor and senior agronomist, she has successfully combined teaching, research, and project leadership roles. She has published widely in international journals and contributed as deputy editor-in-chief to academic monographs, reflecting her strong commitment to scholarly communication. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, she has led multiple scientific research projects and participated in several others, contributing significantly to advancements in her field. Her professional experience also includes the application of research outcomes to industry, with patents that demonstrate innovation in agricultural biotechnology. She has been recognized with prestigious awards for her contributions to science and technology, highlighting her role as both a thought leader and practitioner. Her professional career reflects a balance of academic scholarship, applied research, and service to the scientific and farming communities.

Research Interests

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jianxiu Hao primary research interests center on the biological control of plant diseases and the discovery and application of beneficial microorganisms and their metabolites. She is particularly interested in developing innovative strategies to manage soil-borne diseases that pose major threats to crops such as potatoes and strawberries. Her research integrates molecular biology, microbial ecology, and agricultural biotechnology to identify effective microbial strains and their active compounds. She also explores the structural and functional mechanisms of microbial metabolites, aiming to understand their role in inducing plant resistance and suppressing pathogens. Another area of her research involves the concept of “plant vaccines,” where beneficial microorganisms are utilized to stimulate plant immune responses. Her work is highly interdisciplinary, involving plant science, microbiology, and biochemistry, and it seeks to provide sustainable alternatives to chemical pesticides. This research not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also addresses global agricultural challenges related to food security and sustainability.

Research Skills

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jianxiu Hao possesses extensive research skills that span both fundamental and applied plant sciences. She is adept at designing and conducting experiments on pathogen–host interactions, microbial screening, and metabolite analysis. Her expertise includes molecular biology techniques for identifying target genes, bioassays for evaluating plant resistance, and advanced analytical methods for studying the structural properties of microbial metabolites. She has strong skills in project management, demonstrated by her ability to lead large-scale research projects and coordinate multidisciplinary teams. Her capacity to translate scientific findings into practical applications is evident from her patents and technology transfers in biological control. Additionally, she has contributed to scientific writing, textbook preparation, and the supervision of research students, enhancing her role as an academic mentor. Dr. Hao’s research skills are complemented by her ability to apply innovative approaches to sustainable agriculture, making her a versatile scientist capable of bridging the gap between laboratory research and field application.

Awards and Honors

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jianxiu Hao has received multiple awards and honors in recognition of her outstanding contributions to plant pathology and agricultural science. Her achievements have been acknowledged through scientific and technological awards at institutional and regional levels, including recognition for her innovative work in guiding student research and entrepreneurship. She has been honored for her contributions to advancing green and sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in developing biological control methods that reduce reliance on chemical pesticides. These honors not only highlight her scientific excellence but also her impact on agricultural innovation and rural development. She is an active member of professional societies, which further acknowledges her influence and leadership within the scientific community. Her role as president of a science and technology service association underscores her commitment to applying research outcomes for the benefit of farmers and herdsmen. Collectively, these recognitions affirm her position as a leading researcher and educator in plant science.

Publications Top Noted

Title: Genome Sequencing and Comparative Genomic Analysis of Attenuated Strain Gibellulopsis nigrescens GnVn.1 Causing Mild Wilt in Sunflower
Year: 2024

Title: Protein elicitor PeVn1 induces resistance to Botrytis cinerea in strawberry and differential transcriptomic analysis
Year: 2025

Title: Mechanism of N-Acetyl-D-alloisoleucine in Controlling Strawberry Black Root Rot
Year: 2024

Title: A protein elicitor PeVn1 from Verticillium nonalfalfae HW recognized as a MAMP triggers plant immunity response
Year: 2024

Title: Potential Candidate Molecule of Photosystem II Inhibitor Herbicide—Brassicanate A Sulfoxide
Year: 2024

Conclusion

Overall, the nominee presents a strong case for the Women Researcher Award through her impactful contributions in plant disease management, innovative research on beneficial microorganisms, and active role in academic and professional societies. With her proven record of scientific achievements and leadership, she stands as a deserving candidate for recognition. By expanding her international collaborations and increasing visibility in global research forums, her future contributions have the potential to make an even greater impact on sustainable agriculture and plant sciences.

Antonios Koutelidakis | Horticulture | Botany Scientist Excellence Award

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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.

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

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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.
    2025 – Efficacy 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.
    2025 – Characterization 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.
    2025 – Evaluation of native Bacillus thuringiensis strains possessing nematicidal specific cry genes against Meloidogyne incognita

  • Meena, K.K., Kumra Taneja, N.K., Jain, D., Ojha, A.
    2024 – Optimization and production of dairy-cereal grain-based probiotic beverage powder and its probiotic survivability under simulated gastric and pancreatic conditions – 1 citation

  • Meena, S., Sharma, S.K., Singh, P.B., … Jain, D., Kumar, K.M.K.
    2024 – Comparative analysis of soil quality and enzymatic activities under different tillage based nutrient management practices in soybean–wheat cropping sequence in Vertisols – 7 citations

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