Prof. Dr. Soner Soylu | Hatay Mustafa Kemal University | Turkey
Prof. Dr. Soner Soylu is a distinguished Turkish plant pathologist affiliated with the Department of Plant Protection at the Faculty of Agriculture, Mustafa Kemal University, Antakya, Turkey. With a career spanning over three decades, he has contributed significantly to plant pathology, disease resistance, and biological control methods. He began his academic journey as a research assistant and steadily rose through the academic ranks to become a full professor. Prof. Soylu has published extensively in internationally refereed journals, earning global recognition for his innovative research on microbial interactions, phytoalexin induction, and the antifungal properties of essential oils. His interdisciplinary approach bridges plant physiology, microbiology, and integrated pest management. Through education, research, and mentoring, he has shaped the future of plant protection science in Turkey and beyond. His dedication, innovative methodologies, and consistent academic output make him a leading candidate for the Best Researcher Award.
Publication Profiles:
Education:
Prof. Dr. Soner Soylu pursued his academic training in plant protection and pathology, laying a strong foundation in agricultural sciences. His academic journey commenced at Mustafa Kemal University, where he later joined the faculty. His doctoral research focused on plant-microbe interactions and the biochemical basis of disease resistance, positioning him at the forefront of plant defense studies. Further academic collaboration, including research with international institutions such as the University of Leicester (UK), enriched his expertise in ultrastructural analysis, phytoalexin accumulation, and molecular plant-microbe interactions. His education was deeply rooted in both theoretical learning and hands-on laboratory research, fostering a holistic approach to plant pathology. He is particularly recognized for translating fundamental research into applicable strategies for crop protection, making his academic background a strong pillar for his globally acknowledged research portfolio.
Experience:
Prof. Dr. Soner Soylu has over 30 years of academic and research experience in plant pathology. He started as a Research Assistant (1993–1998) at the Department of Plant Protection, Mustafa Kemal University, where he engaged in both education and scientific investigation. He served as an Assistant Professor, advancing to higher academic roles over time. His responsibilities have included lecturing undergraduate and postgraduate students, supervising theses, and leading research projects focused on plant-pathogen interactions and biocontrol methods. His work is known for integrating field, lab, and molecular techniques to tackle critical plant diseases, especially in tomato, Arabidopsis, and other economically significant crops. His international collaborations and interdisciplinary research have elevated the university’s research profile. Prof. Soylu’s experience reflects a blend of academic rigor, mentorship, and field impact, making him a seasoned researcher and educator in his domain.
Research Focus:
Prof. Dr. Soner Soylu’s research focuses on plant-pathogen interactions, biological control, and the mechanisms of induced resistance in plants. He has made significant contributions to understanding how essential oils from various medicinal plants can act as antifungal and antibacterial agents, targeting major plant pathogens like Phytophthora infestans, Botrytis cinerea, and Clavibacter michiganensis. His studies often utilize light and electron microscopy, biochemical assays, and molecular techniques to uncover plant defense responses, including the accumulation of phytoalexins and defense enzymes. Additionally, he has investigated elicitor-triggered immunity and the role of lipopolysaccharides in disease suppression. His interdisciplinary approach connects plant physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, and integrated disease management. His work not only enhances scientific understanding but also offers sustainable solutions for agricultural disease control. His research remains vital to food security and sustainable agriculture, earning him international citations and making him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award.
Publications Top Notes:
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First report of powdery mildew on mulberry caused by Phyllactinia guttata – Plant Pathology
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Induction of phytoalexin in broad bean via elicitors – Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry
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Characterization of elicitors from Peronospora parasitica – Phytoparasitica
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First report of downy leaf spot in walnuts by Microstroma juglandis – Plant Pathology
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Acibenzolar-S-methyl induced resistance in tomato against bacterial canker – Plant Science
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Powdery mildew on dill by Erysiphe heraclei – Plant Pathology
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Microscopic study of Arabidopsis–Peronospora interaction – Journal of Phytopathology
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Acibenzolar-S-methyl induces enzymes in tomato – Plant Pathology
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First report of cercospora leaf spot on swiss chard – Plant Pathology
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Ultrastructure of Arabidopsis–Albugo candida interaction – Physiol. and Mol. Plant Pathology
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Prof. Dr. Soner Soylu exemplifies the ideal candidate for the Best Researcher Award through his innovative, sustainable, and impactful research in plant pathology. His legacy includes novel findings on natural disease control agents, significant publications in respected journals, and a commitment to merging fundamental and applied sciences. Despite minor areas for growth in international exposure and technological integration, his academic journey reflects excellence, perseverance, and relevance in solving real-world agricultural challenges. His contributions have direct implications for food security, crop health, and sustainable farming—hallmarks of a true leader in plant protection research. Awarding Prof. Soylu would not only honor a career of scientific excellence but also spotlight the importance of eco-friendly innovations in agriculture.