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

Juveriya Israr | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Juveriya Israr | Plant Biotechnology | Best Researcher Award

Ph.D. Scholar at Shri Ramswaroop Memorial University Lucknow, India

Ms. Juveriya Israr is a dedicated Ph.D. scholar in Bioscience and Technology at Shri Ramswaroop Memorial University and a Research Analyst at Era’s Lucknow Medical College and Hospital. With an academic background in microbiology, she has developed a strong interdisciplinary research portfolio spanning drug discovery, phytochemistry, bioinformatics, and metabolomics. Her work integrates computational and experimental methods, particularly focusing on the anticancer and antiviral potential of phytochemicals. She has authored over 20 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters in reputed journals indexed in Scopus and Web of Science, contributing significantly to translational biomedical research. Her Ph.D. work centers on evaluating the anticancer effects of Achyranthes aspera and Swertia chirata against oral cancer. Ms. Israr has established national collaborations and is a life member of the Indian Society of Personalized Medicine. With a growing citation record and a strong commitment to scientific innovation, she exemplifies the qualities of an emerging leader in life sciences research.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Ms. Juveriya Israr has built a solid academic foundation in the life sciences, beginning with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Zoology, Botany, and Chemistry. She further advanced her academic journey by earning a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Microbiology, where she gained in-depth knowledge of microbial physiology, pathology, and biotechnology. Her postgraduate studies provided a strong platform for engaging in interdisciplinary research, combining microbiology with pharmacology, bioinformatics, and environmental sciences. Currently, she is pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Bioscience and Technology at Shri Ramswaroop Memorial University, Lucknow. Her doctoral research focuses on exploring the anticancer potential of phytochemical extracts from Achyranthes aspera and Swertia chirata against oral cancer, using both in vitro and in silico approaches. Through this academic progression, Ms. Israr has demonstrated a consistent commitment to scientific inquiry and excellence, equipping herself with both theoretical knowledge and practical research skills in cutting-edge areas of life sciences.

Professional Experience 💼 

Ms. Juveriya Israr has gained valuable professional experience as a Research Analyst at the Department of Biotechnology, Era’s Lucknow Medical College and Hospital, alongside her doctoral studies at Shri Ramswaroop Memorial University. In this role, she has been actively involved in multidisciplinary research projects focusing on drug discovery, phytochemistry, and computational biology. Her responsibilities include conducting in silico and in vitro screening of bioactive compounds, metabolomics profiling, and data analysis related to cancer and infectious diseases. She has also contributed to several collaborative studies with leading Indian research institutions, demonstrating her ability to work in team-based scientific environments. Ms. Israr has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, reflecting her research output and growing recognition in the field of biosciences. Her experience bridges computational and experimental research, highlighting her versatility and depth of knowledge in molecular biology, pharmacology, and translational medicine. This professional engagement has significantly enhanced her practical skills and scientific insight.

Research Interest 🔬

Ms. Juveriya Israr’s research interests lie at the intersection of computational biology and experimental biosciences, with a strong focus on drug discovery, phytochemistry, bioinformatics, and cancer biology. She is particularly interested in exploring the therapeutic potential of natural compounds derived from medicinal plants using in silico methods such as molecular docking, ADMET analysis, and pharmacokinetics modeling, followed by in vitro validation. Her Ph.D. research centers on evaluating the anticancer properties of Achyranthes aspera and Swertia chirata against oral cancer, reflecting her commitment to identifying novel, plant-based therapeutic agents. Additionally, she is involved in metabolomics and genomics research, aiming to understand disease mechanisms and biomarker discovery, especially for cancer and rare diseases. Ms. Israr is also passionate about translational research that bridges laboratory findings with clinical relevance. Through her interdisciplinary approach, she seeks to contribute to the development of safer, more effective treatments while promoting innovation in personalized and precision medicine.

Research Skill🔎

Ms. Juveriya Israr possesses a diverse and well-rounded set of research skills that span both computational and experimental domains in life sciences. She is proficient in in silico drug design, including molecular docking, virtual screening, ADMET prediction, and molecular dynamics simulations, which she applies to identify and evaluate bioactive compounds from medicinal plants. Her expertise in bioinformatics tools and platforms enables her to analyze genomic and metabolomic data effectively. On the experimental side, she is skilled in in vitro assays, including cytotoxicity testing, cell culture techniques, and phytochemical extractions, allowing her to validate computational predictions in the laboratory. She is also experienced in scientific writing and data interpretation, with over 20 publications in peer-reviewed journals and book chapters. Her collaborative work with multidisciplinary teams reflects her strengths in project planning, data analysis, and critical problem-solving. These skills collectively support her goal of contributing to translational biomedical research and personalized therapeutics.

Award and Honor🏆

Ms. Juveriya Israr has received recognition for her academic excellence and research contributions in the field of biosciences and biotechnology. As a Ph.D. scholar and research analyst, she has been commended for her active participation in national and institutional research activities. She has presented her work at several scientific conferences and symposia, earning appreciation for her innovative approaches in drug discovery and phytochemical research. Her scholarly publications in reputable, peer-reviewed journals indexed in Scopus and Web of Science further highlight the impact of her work. Although she has not yet received major national or international awards, her consistent contributions have positioned her as a strong contender for honors such as the Young Scientist Award and Women in Science recognition. Her membership in the Indian Society of Personalized Medicine and collaborative projects with leading institutions reflect her growing reputation as an emerging researcher committed to advancing the frontiers of life sciences.

Conclusion📝

Juveriya Israr is a promising and deserving candidate for Young Scientist Award and potentially Women in Science/Research Leadership, particularly considering her multidisciplinary contributions and the societal relevance of her cancer research. While she is not yet at the level of a senior researcher suitable for a top-tier Best Researcher Award in a broad sense, within the scope of early-career and emerging scientists, she shows strong potential and dedication.

If the Best Researcher Award in question targets early-career researchers or Ph.D. scholars, she is a very strong candidate. However, if it is a general category open to senior researchers with extensive impact and leadership, she may be better suited to more specific categories like Young Scientist or Excellence in Life Sciences for Emerging Researchers.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Title: Current Approaches and Implications in Discovery of Novel Bioactive Products from Microbial Sources

    • Authors: Ankesh Pandey, Juveriya Israr, Janmejay Pandey, Sankalp Misra

    • Publication Type: Book Chapter

  • Title: Current Progress in CRISPR-Cas Systems for Rare Diseases

    • Authors: Juveriya Israr, Ajay Anil Kumar

    • Publication Type: Book Chapter

Thais Santos Castro | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Professor Assistente Dra at Unesp/FEG, Brazil

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro is an accomplished academic and researcher in the field of Mechanical Engineering. She earned her undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral degrees from Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), where her doctoral research focused on energy generation for electric vehicles. Dr. Castro has 12 years of experience in the aeronautical industry, contributing to aircraft project development in both commercial and executive aviation. As a professor at the Faculty of Engineering and Sciences at UNESP, she teaches courses in mechanics, machine elements, vibrations, and technical drawing. Her research interests include wind turbines, electric vehicles, and sustainability, with a commitment to advancing green technologies. Dr. Castro has received several research scholarships from CAPES and continues to enhance her skills through professional development courses. Her academic work, coupled with her industry experience, positions her as a highly respected figure in her field.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro has a distinguished educational background in Mechanical Engineering. She completed her undergraduate degree at Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP) in 2008, followed by a master’s degree in the same field in 2014. Dr. Castro then pursued a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at UNESP, which she obtained in 2018. Her doctoral research focused on energy generation for electric vehicles, specifically on the sizing and emission analysis of power plants to support electric car systems. Throughout her academic journey, she has been mentored by esteemed professors such as Teófilo Miguel de Souza, who has guided her research in various engineering domains. Dr. Castro’s dedication to furthering her expertise is evident in her continuous pursuit of complementary education, including numerous short courses in topics like sustainability, renewable energy, and teaching methodologies. Her educational journey has shaped her into a respected academic and researcher in her field.

Professional Experience 💼

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro has extensive professional experience in both academia and industry. She has spent over a decade working in the aeronautical industry, contributing to the development of aircraft projects for both executive and commercial aviation. This experience has enriched her research with practical insights into mechanical engineering applications. In academia, Dr. Castro has been an integral part of the Faculty of Engineering and Sciences at Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), where she has taught various courses, including machinery, vibrations, machine elements, and technical drawing. She initially served as a substitute professor before advancing to her current role as an Assistant Professor, where she is dedicated to both teaching and research. Dr. Castro has also been involved in various research projects related to wind turbines, electric vehicles, and renewable energy, making significant contributions to the field of sustainability and energy systems. Her professional experience bridges academia and industry, enhancing her research and teaching effectiveness.

Research Interest 🔬

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro’s research interests focus on sustainable energy solutions, with a particular emphasis on wind turbines, electric vehicles, and renewable energy systems. Her doctoral research explored the sizing and emission analysis of power plants for feeding electric cars, demonstrating her commitment to the intersection of energy generation and environmental sustainability. Dr. Castro is also deeply engaged in studying mechanical systems, particularly in the areas of machine elements, vibrations, and thermal management of mechanical components. Additionally, her work extends to the development of green technologies, where she investigates how mechanical engineering can contribute to a more sustainable future. Through her research, Dr. Castro seeks to advance the efficiency of renewable energy systems, particularly in the context of transportation and industrial applications. Her combined expertise in aeronautical engineering and sustainable energy positions her as a leader in addressing global energy challenges using innovative mechanical engineering solutions.

Research Skill🔎

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro possesses strong research skills in mechanical engineering, with a particular focus on energy systems, sustainability, and mechanical design. Her expertise includes energy generation analysis, especially in the context of electric vehicles and renewable energy sources like wind turbines. Dr. Castro’s research skills encompass advanced modeling and analysis techniques, including the sizing and emission assessments of power plants for energy-efficient applications. She is proficient in using computational tools and software for energy system simulations and mechanical design, enabling her to effectively explore and optimize complex engineering systems. Additionally, her background in the aeronautical industry has honed her skills in developing and testing mechanical components for high-performance applications. Dr. Castro’s research approach is characterized by a strong interdisciplinary perspective, blending mechanical engineering with environmental sustainability. She also excels in guiding students and collaborators in research, ensuring the effective execution of innovative projects and contributing to the advancement of her field.

Award and Honor🏆

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thais Santos Castro has received several prestigious awards and honors throughout her academic and professional career. Notably, she was awarded a doctoral scholarship by the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (CAPES) in Brazil, which supported her research on energy generation for electric vehicles. She also received a master’s scholarship from CAPES, reflecting her academic excellence and commitment to advancing engineering research. In addition to these research-focused honors, Dr. Castro was recognized for her contributions to the industry, having been part of a project at Philips do Brasil Ltda that led to significant cost savings. Furthermore, her consistent dedication to sustainable energy solutions and mechanical engineering has garnered recognition within both academic and professional circles. Dr. Castro’s commitment to professional growth is also reflected in her ongoing pursuit of additional certifications and development courses, which further solidify her reputation as a leading academic and researcher in her field.

Conclusion📝

Thais Santos Castro possesses many of the essential qualities that would make her a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. She has a robust academic and professional background, contributes meaningfully to sustainability-related research, and demonstrates a clear commitment to her field through continuous learning and teaching. With further enhancement of her publication record, language proficiency, and expanded research collaborations, she could solidify her position as a leading researcher in her discipline.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Title: Feasibility of electric vehicle: electricity by grid × photovoltaic energy

    • Author(s): TS Castro, TM de Souza, JL Silveira

    • Journal: Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews

    • Year: 2017

    • Cited by: 26

  • Title: Análise econômica e ambiental de sistemas de geração alternativa para suprimento energético de carros elétricos

    • Author(s): TS Castro

    • Institution: Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP)

    • Year: 2018

    • Cited by: Not provided

  • Title: Autonomia Inteligente na Geração de Energia Elétrica–População Rural e Pequenas Comunidades Isoladas

    • Author(s): TS Castro, TM de Souza, JL Silveira

    • Year: Not provided

    • Cited by: Not provided