Elena-Roxana Matache (Vasilache) | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Mrs. Elena-Roxana Matache (Vasilache) | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Mrs. Elena-Roxana Matache (Vasilache), Dunarea de Jos University of Galati, Romania

Elena-Roxana Matache (Vasilache) is a dedicated Romanian researcher and academic with a strong background in pediatric infectious diseases, currently serving as a Doctoral Assistant at the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați. Born on October 24, 1989, she has built a robust academic and research career focused on virology, respiratory infections, and antibiotic resistance in children. Elena is a passionate educator with qualifications in psychopedagogy and has actively contributed to both teaching and scientific research. She has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, showcasing her commitment to advancing pediatric healthcare. Her collaboration in multidisciplinary teams has led to insightful studies on SARS-CoV-2, adenovirus infections, and digestive pathogens. Through her impactful research, Elena continues to play a crucial role in improving diagnostic and treatment strategies for pediatric patients. Her dedication and scientific contributions make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar

✅ Strengths for the Award:

  1. Robust Research Output: Over 11 peer-reviewed publications across international journals like Viruses, Pediatric Pulmonology, and Technium BioChemMed, with significant contributions to pediatric infectious diseases.

  2. Focused Research Themes: Specializes in respiratory viral infections, SARS-CoV-2, antibiotic resistance, and gastrointestinal viruses in children—areas of major global health interest.

  3. Scientific Recognition: Recipient of First and Second Prizes at doctoral-level scientific conferences for research on SARS-CoV-2 and respiratory infections in children.

  4. Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Works with interdisciplinary teams combining clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory expertise—demonstrating strong teamwork and communication skills.

  5. Educational Contribution: Active academic involvement as a Doctoral Assistant since 2020, contributing to student training and curriculum development.

  6. Language Proficiency: Fluent in Romanian and Spanish at C1 level, enabling collaboration across linguistic boundaries.

⚙️ Areas for Improvement:

  1. International Exposure: While her publication record is strong, increasing international conference participation or fellowships would further raise her profile globally.

  2. Research Funding & Grants: Future applications for national or European research grants would solidify her independence and research leadership.

  3. Independent Lead Authorship: Expanding her role as first or corresponding author across high-impact publications would better establish her as a principal investigator.

  4. Innovation & Technology Use: Engaging in molecular diagnostics, AI in medicine, or public health informatics could diversify her impact and align with global research trends.

🎓 Education:

Elena-Roxana Matache completed her higher education at the “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați, Romania. She earned certifications in psycho-pedagogical training programs, completing Level I in early 2021 under the Ministry of Health, and Level II in mid-2021 through the Ministry of Education. These qualifications reflect her commitment to both research and academic teaching. Her educational background combines medical expertise with pedagogy, equipping her with essential skills for both clinical instruction and scientific research. Elena’s multidisciplinary training has enabled her to pursue a doctoral path in the medical field, focusing on pediatric infectious diseases and public health. Her education emphasizes the importance of continuous professional development, and her role as a doctoral assistant underscores her capability to bridge scientific inquiry with clinical application and medical education. Her diverse academic background supports her ongoing contributions to the fields of pediatric medicine, microbiology, and virology.

🧪 Professional Experience:

Since October 2020, Elena-Roxana Matache has held the position of Doctoral Assistant at the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Dunărea de Jos” University of Galați. In this academic role, she is involved in both teaching and research activities, focusing on pediatric medicine, infectious diseases, and virology. She collaborates with medical professionals and researchers in conducting clinical studies, publishing scientific papers, and mentoring students. Elena has co-authored numerous high-impact publications on viral respiratory infections, SARS-CoV-2, and antibiotic resistance in children. Her contributions to scientific conferences and academic events further illustrate her active engagement in the medical research community. Working in a university clinical setting, she bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Her hands-on experience with pediatric cases and laboratory analysis, combined with her strong academic foundation, positions her as a key contributor to child healthcare research in Romania.

🏅 Awards and Honors:

Elena-Roxana Matache has received significant recognition for her scientific work through academic awards and honors. She was awarded First Prize at the 10th edition of the Scientific Conference of the Doctoral School “CSSD” (June 2022) for her research on RT-PCR cycle threshold analysis in children with SARS-CoV-2. In June 2025, she won the Second Prize at the 13th edition of the same conference for her clinical profile research on respiratory infections in children under two years of age. Her impactful work in pediatric virology and epidemiology continues to receive acknowledgment from academic institutions and peer researchers. Elena’s awards underscore her methodical research approach and commitment to addressing real-world health challenges through scientific investigation. These honors demonstrate her ongoing contribution to pediatric health and infectious disease management, affirming her status as a high-performing researcher and educator with substantial academic potential.

🔬 Research Focus:

Elena-Roxana Matache’s research primarily focuses on pediatric infectious diseases, with a special emphasis on viral respiratory infections, gastrointestinal pathogens, SARS-CoV-2, and antibiotic resistance in children. Her investigations include the epidemiology, diagnosis, and clinical management of infections caused by adenovirus, rotavirus, norovirus, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Her work has also addressed immune markers like IgA and IgG in the diagnosis of celiac disease, and she has contributed significantly to understanding COVID-19 impacts in pediatric and pregnant populations. Elena is interested in translational medicine, connecting clinical findings with laboratory data to improve diagnostic tools and public health interventions. Her multidisciplinary research involves collaboration with clinicians, microbiologists, and epidemiologists, leading to evidence-based solutions for pediatric care. Through her publications and conference presentations, she has contributed valuable insights to global discussions on child health, making her an active and impactful researcher in the medical field.

📚 Publications Top Notes: 

  1. 🦠 Pathogen Profile of Children Hospitalised with Viral Respiratory Infections in Galati County, Romania – Viruses, 2025

  2. 🧬 Prevalence of Respiratory Tract Infections With Adenovirus in Children – Pediatric Pulmonology, 2025

  3. 🧫 The Role of IgA and IgG Anti-Transglutaminase Antibodies in the Diagnosis of Celiac Disease in Children – Technium BioChemMed, 2023

  4. 💊 Aspects of Antibiotic Resistance for Klebsiella Pneumoniae in a Children Hospital – Innovative Romanian Food Biotechnology, 2023

  5. 🚼 Antibiotic Resistance in Urinary Tract Infection in Children – Technium BioChemMed, 2022

  6. 🧻 Digestive Infections with Norovirus, Rotavirus and Adenovirus in Children from Galati County – Romanian Journal of Laboratory Medicine, 2022

  7. 🤰 Current Aspects in the Management of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Pregnancy – Economics and Applied Informatics, 2022

  8. 🧪 The Management of Adenovirus Infection in the Children’s Hospital from Galati – Economics and Applied Informatics, 2022

  9. 🧍‍♂️ Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Adults in Galati Area – Annals of Dunarea de Jos University Galati, Medicine, 2020

  10. 🧠 Neurological Affections Impact in Geriatrics – Annals of Dunarea de Jos University Galati, Medicine, 2020

🧾 Conclusion:

Elena-Roxana Matache demonstrates all the essential qualities of a high-potential early-career researcher—scientific productivity, topical expertise, and a clear focus on impactful pediatric health issues. Her publications, awards, and active engagement in academic and clinical research make her a strong and deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Prbhu Narayan Meena | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Paper Award

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Dr. Prbhu Narayan Meena | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Paper Award

Dr. Prbhu Narayan Meena , ICAR-NRIIPM, New delhi , India

Dr. P. N. Meena, M.Sc. (Ag), Ph.D., is a renowned Scientist in the field of Plant Pathology. With a career that began in 2013 at ICAR-CRIJAF, Kolkata, Dr. Meena played a crucial role in developing two varieties of kenaf resistant to foot and stem rot disease. Over the years, Dr. Meena has made significant contributions to plant pathology research, publishing 7 international and 27 national research papers, 12 abstracts, 2 books/compendiums, and numerous other scientific works. She has delivered over 13 invited lectures, organized several farmer field schools, and participated in 22 trainings and conferences. Her research has earned her awards, including the Best Plant Pathologist Award in 2019 and 2024. Dr. Meena’s work continues to benefit horticulture, fibre, and pulse crops through innovative disease management solutions.

Publication Profile:

Google Scholar

Strengths for the Award:

  1. Outstanding Contributions to Plant Pathology: Dr. P. N. Meena has made significant contributions to plant pathology research, particularly in the development of disease-resistant crops and bio-control strategies. Her work on kenaf varieties resistant to foot and stem rot disease, and her extensive publications on molecular detection and disease management strategies, are impressive achievements that underscore her excellence in the field.

  2. Comprehensive Research Focus: Dr. Meena has worked across multiple aspects of plant disease management, including molecular diagnostics, eco-friendly management practices, and bio-control agents like Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. This broad research focus ensures her work impacts horticulture, fibre crops, and pulses.

  3. Recognition & Awards: She has received prestigious awards such as the Best Plant Pathologist Award in 2019 and 2024, highlighting her esteemed position in the research community.

  4. Extensive Publication Record: With over 7 international papers, 27 national papers, 2 books, 13 book chapters, and numerous abstracts and technical bulletins, Dr. Meena has demonstrated a prolific research output. Her works are valuable for both academia and practical applications in agriculture.

  5. Leadership & Community Engagement: Dr. Meena has played a leadership role in organizing numerous farmer training programs, field schools, and workshops. This active engagement with the farming community, along with her work in disseminating scientific knowledge, strengthens her candidacy for the award.

Areas for Improvement:

  1. Collaborative Research in Emerging Fields: While Dr. Meena has a strong background in traditional crop disease management, there is potential to expand her research into emerging fields like genomic data integration and precision agriculture. Collaborations with experts in genomics or climate change could open new avenues for disease resistance and crop resilience.

  2. Expansion in Global Research Networks: While her contributions are highly recognized nationally and regionally, further involvement in international research collaborations, especially with top global agricultural institutions, could elevate the global impact of her research.

  3. Publication of Research in High-Impact Journals: Though Dr. Meena’s publication record is commendable, focusing more on high-impact international journals could further boost the visibility of her work on a global scale, ensuring that her research reaches a wider, more diverse audience.

Education:

Dr. P. N. Meena pursued her Master’s in Science (Agriculture) with a specialization in Plant Pathology and later completed her Ph.D. in the same field. Her academic journey has been marked by an unwavering commitment to understanding plant diseases and finding sustainable solutions. Her advanced education laid the foundation for her impactful research at ICAR-CRIJAF, where she actively contributed to various projects focused on disease resistance in crops. Throughout her educational career, Dr. Meena has exhibited excellence, being well-versed in molecular detection and plant disease management. Her knowledge has allowed her to develop various technologies in disease management strategies, particularly for horticultural and fibre crops. She has remained engaged with both national and international research communities, collaborating extensively to share insights and expertise.

Experience:

Dr. P. N. Meena began her career as a Scientist (Plant Pathology) at ICAR-CRIJAF, Kolkata, in 2013, where she made notable contributions to the development of kenaf varieties resistant to major diseases. Her extensive experience includes publishing 7 international and 27 national research papers, authoring 2 books, and developing 21 technologies for disease management. Dr. Meena has served as a Co-PI in 2 externally funded projects, PI in 2 institute projects, and Co-PI in 14 institute projects. She has delivered 14 oral/poster presentations and 13 invited lectures in farmer training programs. Her leadership is reflected in organizing 18 farmer field schools (FFS) and coordinating 5 FLDs. Dr. Meena has received multiple awards for her contribution to plant pathology, including the Best Plant Pathologist Award in 2019 and 2024. Her active involvement in conferences, workshops, and research continues to influence the agricultural community.

Research Focus:

Dr. P. N. Meena’s research focus primarily revolves around plant diseases, particularly in horticultural, fibre, and pulse crops. Her groundbreaking work includes developing molecular detection technologies for various plant pathogens and strategies for managing diseases like foot and stem rot in crops. A significant part of her research is centered on eco-friendly disease management, using bioagents such as Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. Additionally, she is passionate about exploring host plant resistance, disease diagnostics, and sustainable agricultural practices. Dr. Meena’s work extends to protecting crops like jute and groundnut from harmful pathogens, improving yield, and promoting environmental sustainability. With 21 technologies developed in disease management and ongoing research in biocontrol, her work contributes substantially to integrated pest management (IPM). Her research also involves extensive work in genetic diversity and the development of resistant crop varieties.

Publications Top Notes:

  1. Biocontrol activity of Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens against Meloidogyne incognita, Fusarium oxysporum, and Rhizoctonia solani 🌱
  2. Bio-efficacy of phytoextracts and oil cakes on Macrophomina phaseolina causing stem rot disease of jute, Corchorus spp. 🌿
  3. Host plant resistance in cultivated jute and its wild relatives towards jute hairy caterpillar Spilosoma obliqua (Lepidoptera: Arctiidae) 🦋
  4. Eco-friendly management of major diseases in jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) 🌾
  5. Evaluation of stem rot disease in jute (Corchorus olitorius) germplasm caused by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid 🍂
  6. Problems and prospects of pest management in jute and allied fibre crops 🌱
  7. Simultaneous detection of potato viruses A and M using CP gene-specific primers in an optimized duplex RT-PCR 🥔
  8. Detection of Mesta yellow vein mosaic virus (MeYVMV) in field samples by a loop-mediated isothermal amplification reaction 🌾
  9. In vitro screening of white Jute (Corchorus capsularis L) against salinity stress 💧
  10. Evaluation of efficacy of different bioagents and fungicides against Rhizoctonia solani (Kuhn) ⚗️

Conclusion:

Dr. P. N. Meena is an exceptional researcher with a proven track record of developing innovative solutions for plant disease management, particularly in the horticultural and fibre crop sectors. Her work is characterized by both depth and breadth, making a significant impact on the agricultural community. The strengths of her research, leadership, and recognition make her a strong contender for the Research for Best Paper Award. However, future directions could involve expanding collaborations into cutting-edge technologies and increasing visibility through international journals. Overall, Dr. Meena’s work stands out for its scientific rigor, practical applications, and contribution to sustainable agriculture.