Emine Mine Soylu | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Emine Mine Soylu | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Hatay Mustafa Kemal University | Turkey

Prof. Dr. Emine Mine Soylu is a prominent academic in the field of plant pathology, with a career spanning over three decades dedicated to plant protection, host-pathogen interactions, and disease management strategies in crops. She began her professional journey as a Research Assistant at Akdeniz University and has since contributed significantly to scientific research through both experimental studies and scholarly publications. Her work is widely recognized, with a particular focus on the identification and control of fungal and bacterial diseases in economically important plants. Prof. Soylu has published 54 scientific documents in internationally refereed journals and has amassed a total of 3,749 citations, reflecting the substantial impact of her work in the field. Her h-index is 25, indicating consistent and high-quality contributions to science over the years. Her research includes first reports of various plant diseases in Türkiye and in-depth studies on disease resistance mechanisms and biochemical plant responses. Prof. Soylu’s contributions continue to shape the future of sustainable agriculture and plant health, and her collaborations extend across national and international scientific communities. Her scholarly output and citation metrics demonstrate her strong influence in the field of phytopathology and plant-microbe interactions.

Profiles: Google Scholar | Scopus |  Orcid

Featured Publications:

  • “Preliminary Characterization of Race-Specific Elicitors From Peronospora parasitica and Its Ability to Elicit Phenolic Accumulation in Arabidopsis”

  • “First Report of Downy Leaf Spot of Walnuts Caused by Microstroma juglandis in Turkey”

  • “Induction of Disease Resistance by the Plant Activator, Acibenzolar-S-methyl (ASM), Against Bacterial Canker (Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis) in Tomato Seedlings”

  • “First Report of Powdery Mildew Caused by Erysiphe heraclei on Dill (Anethum graveolens) in Turkey”

  • “Light and Electron Microscopy of the Compatible Interaction Between Arabidopsis and the Downy Mildew Pathogen Peronospora parasitica”

  • “Induction of Defence Related Enzymes and Resistance by the Plant Activator Acibenzolar-S-methyl in Tomato Seedlings Against Bacterial Canker Caused by Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis”

  • “First Report of Cercospora Leaf Spot on Swiss Chard Caused by Cercospora beticola in Turkey”

  • “First Report of Phloeospora Leaf Spot on Mulberry Caused by Phloeospora maculans (=Cylindrosporium maculans) in the Eastern Mediterranean Region of Turkey”

  • “Induction of Disease Resistance and Antioxidant Enzymes by Acibenzolar-S-methyl Against Bacterial Canker (Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis) in Tomato”

  • “First Report of Powdery Mildew Caused by Podosphaera phaseoli (syn. Sphaerotheca phaseoli) on Cowpea (Vigna sinensis) in Turkey”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Soner Soylu | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Soner Soylu | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

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: 

Google Scholar
Scopus
Orcid

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: 

  1. First report of powdery mildew on mulberry caused by Phyllactinia guttata – Plant Pathology 

  2. Induction of phytoalexin in broad bean via elicitors – Turkish Journal of Agriculture and Forestry 

  3. Characterization of elicitors from Peronospora parasitica – Phytoparasitica 

  4. First report of downy leaf spot in walnuts by Microstroma juglandis – Plant Pathology 

  5. Acibenzolar-S-methyl induced resistance in tomato against bacterial canker – Plant Science 

  6. Powdery mildew on dill by Erysiphe heraclei – Plant Pathology 

  7. Microscopic study of Arabidopsis–Peronospora interaction – Journal of Phytopathology 

  8. Acibenzolar-S-methyl induces enzymes in tomato – Plant Pathology 

  9. First report of cercospora leaf spot on swiss chard – Plant Pathology 

  10. 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.

Hansong Dong | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Hansong Dong | Host-Pathogen Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Hansong Dong, Shandong Agricultural University, China

Dr. Hansong Dong is a distinguished Professor of Plant Pathology and Doctoral Supervisor at Shandong Agricultural University, China. With a Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, his work spans over four decades, focusing on plant immunity, signal transduction, and the balance between crop growth and defense. A renowned researcher and published poet, Prof. Dong has made seminal contributions to our understanding of aquaporins, hormone signaling, and the molecular interface between host plants and pathogens. His international academic exposure, including time as a Visiting Scholar at Cornell University, has further enriched his scientific insights. In addition to his impactful research, Prof. Dong has mentored numerous graduate students and contributed to agricultural innovation. With numerous high-impact publications in journals like Molecular Plant and New Phytologist, his work is widely recognized. Beyond academia, his literary works reflect a philosophical appreciation of nature and resilience, exemplifying a rare integration of science and art.

Publication Profile: 

Scopus

Education:

Prof. Hansong Dong pursued his undergraduate studies in Plant Protection at Shandong Agricultural University (1978–1982). He continued with his Master’s and Ph.D. in Plant Pathology at Nanjing Agricultural University, completing them in 1985 and 1988, respectively. His academic training provided a solid foundation in plant-microbe interactions, molecular biology, and host defense mechanisms. During his studies, he honed his focus on understanding plant immune responses, laying the groundwork for his future breakthroughs in signaling and aquaporin-mediated defense. His Ph.D. thesis contributed to early models of pathogen-host dynamics in crops, marking the start of a lifelong research trajectory in agricultural biotechnology. His formal education not only established his credibility in plant pathology but also shaped his vision for interdisciplinary research. Prof. Dong’s academic excellence has continued to drive forward key discoveries in the field, making him a leading authority in crop protection and molecular plant immunity in China and internationally.

Experience:

Prof. Dong began his career as a Lecturer in the Department of Plant Pathology at Shandong Agricultural University (1988–1993). He quickly rose through academic ranks—Associate Professor in 1993, and full Professor by 1994. His leadership and research capabilities were recognized early on, leading to a Visiting Scholar position at Cornell University (1997–2000), where he engaged in collaborative projects on plant immune signaling and pathogen effectors. Over his decades of teaching and research, Prof. Dong has supervised numerous doctoral students, published extensively, and shaped academic policy and curriculum in plant pathology. His tenure at Shandong Agricultural University is marked by scientific rigor, mentorship, and impactful agricultural innovations. His ability to bridge laboratory research with field application has contributed significantly to crop disease management strategies in China. Prof. Dong remains actively involved in national and international research initiatives, playing a vital role in advancing molecular plant pathology and crop resilience.

Awards & Honors:

Prof. Hansong Dong has received several prestigious accolades recognizing his early and sustained contributions to science and education. In 1992, he was honored as an Outstanding Young Intellectual and received the Shandong Youth Science and Technology Award, acknowledging his early promise in agricultural research. The same year, he was also named an Excellent Young Teacher, a testament to his pedagogical contributions. In 1993, he was recognized as a New Long March Commando, symbolizing excellence in youth-led scientific advancement in China. These early recognitions paved the way for a prolific academic career that has garnered respect across disciplines. His awards highlight his leadership in scientific innovation, commitment to nurturing the next generation of researchers, and the societal relevance of his work in safeguarding global food security. As both a scientist and educator, Prof. Dong’s accolades reflect his well-rounded excellence and continued influence in plant pathology and agronomic science.

Research Focus:

Prof. Dong’s research focuses on signal transduction in plant disease resistance and the regulation of growth-defense trade-offs in crops. His work investigates the molecular dialogue between plants and pathogens, particularly through the lens of aquaporins, importins, and membrane proteins. He has significantly advanced our understanding of how pathogenic effectors manipulate host splicing and hormone pathways, notably through TAL effectors and NPR1/NPR3 systems in rice. His team applies multi-omics and CRISPR-based editing to engineer resistant crops while minimizing yield penalties, a critical goal in sustainable agriculture. By elucidating the roles of H2O2 transport, type-III secretion systems, and transcriptional regulation, his research offers translational solutions to fungal and bacterial diseases in cereals like rice and wheat. Prof. Dong’s innovative blend of molecular biology, bioinformatics, and field experimentation drives progress toward disease-resilient, high-yield crops. His collaborative, systems-level approach continues to shape modern plant pathology and crop biotechnology.

 Publications Top Notes:

  1. Alternative splicing of OsNPR3… enhances disease susceptibility in rice – Molecular Plant, 2025

  2. Plant PI4P is required for bacteria to translocate type-3 effectors – New Phytologist, 2025

  3. MYB44 regulates PTI via EIN2 and MPK3/6 in Arabidopsis – Plant Communications, 2023

  4. Importin β1 mediates nuclear entry of EIN2C against aphids – IJMS, 2023

  5. Phosphorylation of wheat aquaporin enhances growth and defense – Molecular Plant, 2022

  6. Aquaporin OsPIP2;2 links H2O2 signaling to plant defense – Plant Physiology, 2022

  7. Editing rice importin IMPα1b sequesters TAL effectors – Phytopathology Research, 2022

  8. Aquaporin modulation intensifies photosynthesis and disease resistance – Plant Journal, 2021

  9. OsPIP2;2 facilitates drought tolerance in rice – Plant Direct, 2021

  10.  Aquaporin TaPIP2;10 confers dual fungal resistance in wheat – Phytopathology, 2021

Conclusion:

Prof. Hansong Dong is highly suitable for the “Best Researcher Award.” His scholarly depth, sustained academic leadership, groundbreaking findings in plant pathology, and dedication to mentoring make him a standout candidate. His career exemplifies a blend of scientific rigor, poetic vision, and global relevance. Recognizing Prof. Dong would not only honor an exceptional researcher but also inspire younger generations in the intersection of science and humanity.

Takwa Wannassi | Plant pathology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Takwa Wannassi | Plant pathology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Takwa Wannassi, CRRA Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia

Dr. Takwa Wannassi is a dedicated plant protection specialist and postdoctoral researcher at the Regional Center of Agricultural Research in Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia. With a Ph.D. in Plant Protection and Environment and an Engineering Degree in Horticulture, she brings advanced expertise in entomology, plant-microbe interactions, and sustainable agriculture. Her work is primarily focused on integrated pest management and ecological approaches to crop protection, particularly in Mediterranean agroecosystems. Dr. Wannassi has authored several impactful scientific publications and has contributed significantly to the understanding of invasive pest dynamics, particularly the apricot seed wasp. She plays a crucial role in the international PRIMA project “REVINE,” where she coordinates field trials, mentors students, and collaborates across scientific disciplines. Her dedication to sustainable farming solutions, her extensive research record, and her collaborative spirit make her a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Publication Profile: 

Google Scholar
Scopus
Orcid

Education:

Dr. Takwa Wannassi holds a Ph.D. in Plant Protection and Environment from Sousse University, Higher Institute of Agronomic Sciences of Chott Mariem (ISA-CM), completed in December 2022. Her doctoral work centered on invasive species and sustainable pest management in Tunisia, particularly the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi. She also holds an Engineer Degree in Horticulture with a specialization in Plant Protection, earned in July 2017 from the same institution. Her academic journey reflects a consistent focus on understanding ecological challenges in agriculture and developing innovative, sustainable solutions. Through both degrees, she acquired hands-on skills in molecular biology, field experimentation, pest identification, and biological control. Her academic excellence laid the foundation for her impactful contributions in agricultural research and sustainability science in the Mediterranean region.

Experience:

Since January 2025, Dr. Takwa Wannassi has been serving as a postdoctoral fellow at the Regional Center of Agricultural Research in Sidi Bouzid (CRRA), Tunisia, contributing to the international PRIMA Project “REVINE.” Her responsibilities include coordinating the research project, supervising graduate students, conducting field and lab trials, and analyzing data using R. Her work spans genomic analysis, molecular diagnostics, pest ecology, and microbiome studies. Previously, during her Ph.D., she gained extensive experience in pest ecology, molecular biology, and entomology, particularly in relation to invasive pests such as Eurytoma samsonowi. Dr. Wannassi also collaborates with international institutions, including during a research fellowship in Canada. She is proficient in preparing scientific publications and has presented her findings at major international conferences. Her multidisciplinary approach and leadership in sustainable agriculture research have earned her recognition at both national and international levels.

Awards and Honors:

Dr. Takwa Wannassi has received several accolades in recognition of her contributions to agricultural science and research. In 2019, she earned the Best Poster Award at the Tunisia-Japan Symposium on Science, Society and Technology (TJASSST) for her research on pest behavior and pheromone-based management strategies. That same year, she was granted a Research Fellowship in Canada, allowing her to work at the University of Victoria, British Columbia for two months, enhancing her international research exposure and collaboration. Her continuous efforts in sustainable pest management, microbiome studies, and plant-pathogen interaction have positioned her as a promising researcher in plant protection. She is frequently invited to contribute to scientific conferences and peer-reviewed journals. Her achievements underline her scientific innovation, dedication to eco-agriculture, and her potential as a future leader in Mediterranean agricultural research.

Research Focus:

Dr. Takwa Wannassi’s research centers on plant protection, pest ecology, biological control, and plant-microbiome interactions, with a strong focus on sustainability. Her main scientific interest lies in understanding the behavior and biology of invasive pests like Eurytoma samsonowi, a major threat to apricot production in Tunisia. She utilizes molecular tools, including 16S rRNA sequencing, to explore bacterial communities and Wolbachia infections in pest populations. Additionally, she investigates the role of beneficial rhizobacteria and microbial consortia in disease suppression and grapevine health as part of the PRIMA “REVINE” project. Through multidisciplinary approaches, she integrates entomology, microbiology, and bioinformatics to develop innovative pest management strategies aligned with climate-smart agriculture. Her goal is to promote ecosystem services, biodiversity, and resilience in Mediterranean cropping systems through regenerative and eco-friendly practices.

Publications Top Notes: 

  1. Insights on the bioecology of the invasive apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi in Tunisia (Biologia, 2023)

  2. Emergence of the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi as an economic pest of apricots in Tunisia (Phytoparasitica, 2022)

  3. Prevalence of Wolbachia infection in field populations of the apricot seed wasp (International Microbiology, 2024)

  4. Exploration of bacterial composition and diversity within Eurytoma samsonowi via 16S rRNA sequencing (Symbiosis, 2025)

  5. Harnessing a Microbial Consortium and Compost to Control Grapevine Pathogens (Horticulturae, 2025)

  6. Investigating the potential role of beneficial rhizobacteria for grapevine health and growth (Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 2025)

  7. Biocontrol Assessment of Trichoderma Species on Tomato Crops Infested by Curvularia Spicifera (Frontiers, 2025)

  8. Divergent bacterial abundance and diversity in Eurytoma samsonowi revealed by 16S rRNA (Biochem & Microbiology Congress)

  9. Assessment of damage by Eurytoma samsonowi on apricot fruits in Tunisia (INAT Symposium Poster, 2018)

  10.  Delta traps with virgin females attract Eurytoma samsonowi males: Pheromone control potential (TJASSST, 2019)

Conclusion:

Dr. Takwa Wannassi is an emerging leader in plant protection and agroecology, with a proven record of excellence in research, publishing, and project management. Her work on invasive pest control, microbial consortia, and regenerative viticulture directly addresses critical challenges in Mediterranean and global agriculture. Her multidisciplinary approach, international recognition, and active mentorship highlight her readiness for continued leadership in science. She is highly suitable and deserving of the Best Researcher Award, as she exemplifies innovation, academic rigor, and a commitment to sustainable agricultural development.

Btissam ZOUBI | Plant Pathology | AgriExcellence Award

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Dr. Btissam ZOUBI | Plant Pathology | AgriExcellence Award

Dr of sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah University, Morocco

Dr. Zoubi Btissam is an expert in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Nematology, and Phytochemistry. She is known for her synthesis skills, rigor, organization, and teamwork abilities. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, and Plant Protection at the Faculty of Science Dhar El Mahraz of Fez and the Faculty of Sciences and Techniques of Marrakech. Her ongoing research focuses on phytoparasitic nematodes associated with citrus in Morocco, specifically Tylenchulus semipenetrans, encompassing their identification, distribution, and biological control. Dr. Btissam holds a Master’s degree in Biodiversity Management and Conservation and a Bachelor’s degree in Microbial Biotechnology, both from the Faculty of Science Dhar El Mahraz.

Profile:

Educational Background 🎓:

  • 2023-2024: PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, and Plant Protection, Faculty of Science Dhar El Mahraz of Fez (USMBA) – Faculty of Sciences and Techniques of Marrakech (UCA)
  • Since 2018-2019: Ongoing PhD in Biology on Phytoparasitic Nematodes Associated with Citrus in Morocco: Identification, Distribution, and Biological Control of Tylenchulus semipenetrans, Faculty of Science Dhar El Mahraz of Fez (USMBA) – Faculty of Sciences and Techniques of Marrakech (UCA)
  • 2016-2018: Master’s Degree in Biodiversity Management and Conservation, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques (FST), Fez
  • 2015-2016: Bachelor’s Degree in Microbial Biotechnology, Faculty of Science Dhar El Mahraz (FSDM), Fez
  • 2012-2013: Scientific Baccalaureate, Physical Sciences Option, Fez

Professional Experience 🏢:

  • June 2024: Jury member for end-of-studies projects in Agricultural Microbiology Techniques, Technological Activity in Microbiology, and Applied Microbiology
  • February – June 2018: Internship at the Laboratory of Physiopathology, Nutrition, and Environment, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Fez
  • July 2017: Internship at the Integrated Crop Production Research Unit (PIC), INRA-Agadir
  • August 2016: Internship at the Microbiology and Serology Laboratory, UHC Fez
  • August 2015: Internship at the Pharmacology and Toxicology Laboratory, UHC Fez

Research Interests:

  • Phytoparasitic Nematodes 🪱
  • Mycorrhizae and Citrus 🍊
  • Microbial Biotechnology 🦠
  • Phytochemistry 🌿
  • Climate Change Adaptation 🌍

Publication Top Notes:

  • ZOUBI, B., et al. (2022). Occurrence and Geographic Distribution of Plant-Parasitic Nematodes Associated with Citrus in Morocco and Their Interaction with Soil Patterns. Life, 12(5), 637.
  • ZOUBI, B., et al. (2023). Eco-friendly management of the citrus nematode Tylenchulus semipenetrans using some aromatic and medicinal plants. Archives of Phytopathology and Plant Protection, 56(1), 66-86.
  • ZOUBI, B., et al. (2023). The efficiency of Thymus vulgaris against citrus nematode Tylenchulus semipenetrans. Journal of Analytical Sciences and Applied Biotechnology, 5(1), 5-1.
  • ZOUBI, B., et al. (2024). Citrus rootstocks vs. nematodes; A battle for resistance against Tylenchulus semipenetrans. Scientia Horticulturae, 331, 113115.
  • BENKEBBOURA, A., et al. (2023). Field inoculation of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi improves quality attributes and yield of melon (Cucumis melo). Journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology, 1-17.
  • AKACHOUD, O., et al. (2022). Mycorrhizal inoculation improves the quality and productivity of essential oil distilled from three aromatic and medicinal plants: Thymus satureioides, Thymus pallidus, and Lavandula dentata. Agronomy, 12(9), 2223.
  • EL BARNOSSI, A., et al. (2022). Tangerine, Pomegranate, and Banana Peels: A Promising Environmentally Friendly Bioorganic Fertilizers for Seed Germination and Cultivation of Pisum sativum L. Waste and Biomass Valorization, 13(8), 3611-3627.
  • Krif, G., et al. (2024). Potential Effects of Nematophagous Fungi Against Meloidogyne javanica Infection of Tomato Plants Under in vitro and in vivo Conditions. Journal of Crop Health, 1-11.