Btissam ZOUBI | Plant Pathology | AgriExcellence Award

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.

 

Thomas Thomidis | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Prof Dr Thomas Thomidis | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Professor at International Hellenic University, Greece

Dr. Thomas Thomidis, born in Naoussa, Greece, is a distinguished academic and researcher in the field of plant science. He is currently a Full Professor at the International Hellenic University in Sindos, Greece.

 

Profile:

Education and Academic Background:

Dr. Thomidis holds a BSc Degree from T.E.I. Thessaloniki (1997) and a BSc (Hons) from Writtle College, University of Essex (2005). He completed his MSc at the University of Essex with a thesis on iron-pathogen interactions in peach trees. He earned his PhD from the same university, focusing on the detection and control of Phytophthora in Prunus species.

Professional Experience:

Dr. Thomidis has extensive experience in higher education, having served as an Assistant Professor (2004-2014) and Associate Professor (2015-2019) at the Alexander Technological Education Institute of Thessaloniki. Since May 2019, he has been with the International Hellenic University, first as an Associate Professor and then as a Full Professor from March 2022. He has supervised five PhD candidates and twelve MSc students.

Research and Contributions:

An active researcher, Dr. Thomidis has reviewed papers for 43 international journals and served as Guest Editor for “Frontier in Plant Science” and Editor for “Agriculture”. He has evaluated research projects for various prestigious organizations, including the Hellenic Ministry of Education and Horizon 2020.

Recognitions and Service:

Dr. Thomidis has held advisory roles with the Hellenic Ministry of Foreign Affairs and participated in numerous scientific committees and organizing committees for international conferences. He was awarded a postdoctoral research scholarship by the Greek National Organization of Public Scholarships. His work has garnered over 2070 citations.

 Research Focus in Plant Pathology:

Dr. Thomas Thomidis, a distinguished academic in plant pathology, focuses his research on the detection, identification, and control of plant pathogens, particularly within fruit crops. His significant contributions in the field include studying iron-pathogen interactions and developing novel approaches for controlling iron chlorosis in peach trees. His PhD research at the University of Essex centered on the detection, identification, and potential control strategies for Phytophthora in Prunus species.

Throughout his career, Dr. Thomidis has advanced the understanding of plant-pathogen dynamics, contributing to the development of precise and data-driven agricultural practices. His research aims to enhance disease management in horticultural crops, thereby improving crop yield and quality. His extensive work includes:

  • Iron-Pathogen Interactions: Investigating how iron affects pathogen development and plant health, leading to innovative methods for managing iron chlorosis in fruit trees.
  • Phytophthora Detection and Control: Developing effective techniques for identifying and controlling Phytophthora species in Prunus crops, mitigating significant agricultural losses.
  • Disease Forecasting Models: Contributing to the creation of predictive models for plant disease outbreaks, aiding in the implementation of timely and efficient control measures.
  • Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Promoting IPM strategies that incorporate biological, cultural, and chemical controls to sustainably manage plant diseases.

Dr. Thomidis has shared his expertise through numerous publications and by serving as a reviewer and editor for several scientific journals. His work has been widely recognized, earning him over 2070 citations, reflecting the impact and relevance of his research in plant pathology.

Citations:

  • Citations: Over 2100
  • h-index: 25
  • i10-index: 67

Since 2019:

  • Citations: 929
  • h-index: 15
  • i10-index: 30
Publication Top Notes:
  • Effect of Greek Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi on Oregano and Mint
    • Citation: 154
    • Study: This research investigated the role of three Greek arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in enhancing the growth, nutrient concentration, and essential oil production of oregano and mint plants .
  • Impact of Peach Rootstocks on Yield and Resistance
    • Citation: 75
    • Study: This study evaluated the effect of 14 peach rootstocks on yield, fruit quality, mortality, girth expansion, frost damage resistance, and susceptibility to various stresses in the May Crest peach variety .
  • Effect of Boron on Brown Rot Development in Peaches
    • Citation: 70
    • Study: This research examined how boron application influences the development of brown rot (Monilinia laxa) on peaches, providing insights into potential control methods .
  • Pathogens’ Contribution to Peach Fruit Rot and Fungicide Sensitivity
    • Citation: 65
    • Study: The study focused on identifying pathogens causing peach fruit rot in northern Greece and their sensitivity to several fungicides, offering guidance on effective disease management practices .
  • Inheritance of Resistance to Plum Pox Virus in Apricot
    • Citation: 64
    • Study: This research explored the genetic inheritance of resistance to Plum pox virus in apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.), contributing to the development of resistant cultivars .
  • Diaporthe eres as a Pathogen of Peach Trees
    • Citation: 59
    • Study: The study identified Diaporthe eres as a new pathogen affecting peach trees in Greece, expanding the understanding of peach tree diseases .
  • Fruit Rots of Pomegranate in Greece
    • Citation: 52
    • Study: This research documented fruit rots in pomegranate (cv. Wonderful) in Greece, contributing to the knowledge of pomegranate diseases and their management .
  • Effects of Nitrogen and Irrigation on Grapes and Botrytis Bunch Rot
    • Citation: 45
    • Study: The study examined how nitrogen and irrigation affect grape quality and susceptibility to Botrytis bunch rot, informing better agricultural practices for grape production .
  • Rooting of Peach Hardwood and Semi-Hardwood Cuttings
    • Citation: 45
    • Study: This research investigated the rooting potential of different peach cuttings, providing insights into propagation techniques .
  • Rhizogenesis of Peach Cultivars in Relation to Carbohydrates and Hormones
    • Citation: 44
    • Study: The study explored the rooting process of various peach cultivars throughout the year, in relation to carbohydrate and natural hormone content .
  • Neofusicoccum parvum and Its Effects on Peaches
    • Citation: 42
    • Study: This research identified Neofusicoccum parvum as a pathogen causing fruit rot and shoot blight in peaches, contributing to the management of this disease .
  • Essential Oils as Bio-fungicides for Pomegranate Rot
    • Citation: 39
    • Study: The study evaluated the efficacy of five essential oils as bio-fungicides against Pilidiella granati rot in pomegranate, suggesting alternative, natural methods for disease control .