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

Syeda Hijab Zehra | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Syeda Hijab Zehra | Horticulture | Best Researcher Award

Junior Researcher, Ph.D Reseracher at Lithuanian Research centre For agriculture And forestry, Lithuania

Ms. Syeda Hijab Zehra is a highly accomplished researcher and scholar in the field of environmental sciences, with a focus on sustainable development, green chemistry, and material science. She completed her Master’s in Environmental Sciences from Bahria University Islamabad with a CGPA of 3.73 (Cum Laude), and her research on the removal of Cr6+ from polluted water was published in the Journal of Chemistry and Environment. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. at the Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry, her research is centered on the valorisation of food processing by-products for green nanoparticle synthesis and biodegradable composites. Ms. Zehra has published several research articles and reviews and has presented her work at numerous international conferences, earning accolades such as the “Best Presentation” award at AGRISCI 2024. Her dedication to both academic excellence and practical industry experience, along with her strong networking and collaboration skills, make her a rising star in her field.

Professional Profile 

Education 🎓 

Ms. Syeda Hijab Zehra has a strong academic background in environmental sciences and chemistry. She completed her Master of Science in Environmental Sciences from Bahria University Islamabad (BUIC), where she graduated with a remarkable CGPA of 3.73 (Cum Laude) in September 2022. During her master’s, her research focused on the removal of Cr6+ from synthetic polluted water using Fe-modified sugarcane bagasse and peanut shell powder, which was later published in the Journal of Chemistry and Environment. Prior to this, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of Wah, Islamabad, in 2020, with a CGPA of 2.93. Currently, Ms. Zehra is pursuing her Ph.D. at the Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry (LAMMC) in Lithuania, where her research explores the valorisation of food processing by-products for green metal nanoparticle biosynthesis and the development of biodegradable micro/nano polymer composites.

Professional Experience 💼

Ms. Syeda Hijab Zehra has gained significant professional experience through both academic research and industry exposure. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. at the Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry (LAMMC), where her research focuses on the valorisation of food processing by-products for green nanoparticle biosynthesis and the development of biodegradable composites. This work reflects her expertise in sustainable materials and environmental solutions. Previously, she worked on several research projects during her Master’s at Bahria University Islamabad, including a notable study on the removal of Cr6+ from synthetic polluted water, which was published in the Journal of Chemistry and Environment. In addition to her research roles, Ms. Zehra completed an internship at Wah Nobel Chemicals LTD, a leading producer of industrial chemicals, where she gained practical experience in the chemical industry. Her strong academic background, coupled with her hands-on industry experience, showcases her well-rounded professional capabilities in environmental sciences and green chemistry.

Research Interest 🔬

Ms. Syeda Hijab Zehra’s research interests are centered around sustainable development, green chemistry, and the development of environmentally friendly materials. She is particularly focused on the green synthesis of nanoparticles, exploring the potential of using natural, renewable resources to create eco-friendly materials with applications in various fields. Her current research, as part of her Ph.D. at the Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry, is centered on the valorisation of food processing by-products for the biosynthesis of metal nanoparticles and the development of biodegradable micro/nano polymer composites. Additionally, she is interested in the use of green synthesis methods to create silver-based nanoparticles with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Ms. Zehra is also passionate about addressing environmental pollution, particularly in water treatment, through innovative methods such as the removal of heavy metals using modified natural materials like sugarcane bagasse and peanut shell powder. Her work aims to bridge sustainability with practical environmental solutions.

Research Skill🔎

Ms. Syeda Hijab Zehra possesses a diverse set of research skills that are pivotal to her work in environmental sciences and green chemistry. She has expertise in green synthesis techniques, particularly in the production of nanoparticles from natural, renewable sources, which is central to her research on sustainable materials. Her technical skills include proficiency in various analytical methods such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS), and UV-visible spectroscopy, all of which she applies in her studies on materials characterization. Ms. Zehra is also skilled in conducting environmental analyses, particularly in water treatment, where she has worked on the removal of heavy metals from polluted water using modified natural adsorbents. Additionally, she demonstrates strong abilities in scientific writing, having published multiple research articles and reviews in reputable journals. Her capacity to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams further enhances her research skills.

Award and Honor🏆

Ms. Syeda Hijab Zehra has earned several prestigious awards and honors throughout her academic and research career. During her Master’s program at Bahria University Islamabad, she was awarded a scholarship and graduated with the distinction of “Cum Laude,” highlighting her exceptional academic performance. Her research and presentation skills have been widely recognized, earning her the “Best Presentation” award at the 13th International Conference of Young Scientists, AGRISCI 2024, in Vilnius, Lithuania, for her work on sustainable green synthesis of silver nanoparticles. Additionally, she has received accolades for her pitch presentations at prominent international events, such as the Green Horizon’s Summit 2024 in Vilnius, where she presented on functional gels from natural renewable sources. Her research contributions have also earned her recognition in various scientific forums, including the 20th International Conference of Young Scientists on Energy and Natural Sciences Issues (CYSENI) and the Advance Material and Technologies 2024 conference, further underscoring her standing in the global research community.

Conclusion📝

Syeda Hijab Zehra shows immense promise as a researcher, excelling academically and making significant contributions to the fields of sustainable development, green chemistry, and environmental sciences. Her publications, awards, and ongoing research in the valorization of food processing by-products and the synthesis of biodegradable materials demonstrate her leadership in emerging scientific fields. While her work is already highly impactful, enhancing the practical implementation and expanding her outreach could position her as a more influential researcher in the long run. Based on her current achievements and potential for future impact, she is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award.

Publications Top Noted📚

  • Title: Removal of Cr6+ from Synthetic Polluted Water using Fe Modified Sugarcane Bagasse & Peanut Shell Powder
    Year: 2023
    Cited by: 6

  • Title: Phenol–Furfural Resin/Graphite/Ag-Based Electrically Conductive Adhesive Composites from Waste Bagasse with Enhanced Thermo-Electric Properties
    Year: 2023
    Cited by: 5

  • Title: Advancements in Green Synthesis of Silver-Based Nanoparticles: Antimicrobial and Antifungal Properties in Various Films
    Year: 2025
    Cited by: 3

  • Title: Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles via Medusomyces gisevii Fermentation with Origanum vulgare L. Extract: Antimicrobial Properties, Antioxidant Properties, and Phytochemical …
    Year: 2025
    Cited by: Not available yet

  • Title: Appraisement and Categorization of Compostable and Non-Compostable Plastic Bags Using HHXRF Spectrophotometer, A Study on Brands in Islamabad
    Year: 2024
    Cited by: Not available yet

  • Title: Assessment of Produced Water from Oil and Gas Field Gujar Khan, Punjab, Pakistan
    Year: 2024
    Cited by: Not available yet

  • Title: Heavy Metals Assessment in Different Fresh and Processed Tuber Crops Grown with Fresh and Sewage Water
    Year: 2024
    Cited by: Not available yet