MEVUNI SARADA JAYATHILAKA | Medicinal Plants | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. MEVUNI SARADA JAYATHILAKA |Medicinal Plants | Best Researcher Award

Faculty of Technology, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka

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Suitable for Best Researcher Award

Mevuni Sarada Jayathilaka is a strong candidate for a “Best Researcher” award based on her impressive academic credentials, research contributions, and dedication to sustainable agriculture. With a Master’s degree in Agricultural Systems & Engineering (GPA: 3.94) from the Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand, and a First-Class Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Resource Management and Technology from the University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, she has demonstrated exceptional academic performance. Her research focuses on critical areas such as food security, sustainable agriculture, secondary metabolites in medicinal plants, and abiotic stress in plants—topics that have significant global importance in addressing climate change and agricultural sustainability.

🎓 Education 

Mevuni Jayathilaka holds an MSc in Agricultural Systems & Engineering from the Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand, maintaining a remarkable GPA of 3.94. Her thesis focused on alleviating copper toxicity using silicon and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in cucumber and tomato plants. She earned her BSc (Honors) in Agricultural Resource Management and Technology from the University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, graduating with First Class Honors (GPA 3.75). She specialized in Agricultural Engineering, integrating automation and precision agriculture. Additionally, she completed a Higher Diploma in Information Technology from the University of Colombo School of Computing, further strengthening her technical expertise. To support her teaching career, she successfully completed a Certificate Course in Professional Development in Higher Education at the University of Ruhuna. Her diverse educational background blends agricultural science with technology, allowing her to explore innovative, data-driven solutions for sustainable agriculture and medicinal plant research.

💼  Professional Experience

Mevuni Jayathilaka is a Lecturer (Probationary) at the University of Ruhuna’s Faculty of Technology, where she teaches Biosystems Technology, mentors students, and supervises undergraduate research. Since her appointment in May 2020, she has played a pivotal role in curriculum development, student evaluations, and research in plant sciences and sustainable agriculture. Prior to her current position, she worked as a Temporary Demonstrator in the Department of Soil Science, conducting practical sessions and supporting research activities. She also gained industry experience as an Industrial Trainee at Dialog Axiata PLC, where she contributed to agriculture automation research, data analytics, and management reporting. Her research focuses on secondary metabolites in medicinal plants, food security, and precision agriculture. With expertise in IoT applications in agriculture and environmental stress tolerance in crops, she aims to bridge the gap between research and real-world agricultural sustainability.

🏅 Awards and Recognition 

Mevuni Jayathilaka has received several prestigious awards recognizing her contributions to sustainable agriculture and research. She was awarded the Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship Program (ADB-JSP) Scholarship in 2022 to pursue her MSc at the Asian Institute of Technology, Thailand. In 2023, she achieved the Best Overall Solution for Net-Zero Emissions at the Sustainability EXPO, highlighting her expertise in climate-smart agriculture. Her academic excellence has also been acknowledged through multiple research grants and fellowships. Additionally, she has played a key role as an Editorial Assistant for the International Symposium on Agriculture and Environment proceedings. Her research on medicinal plants, abiotic stress tolerance, and IoT-based smart farming solutions has been widely recognized at international conferences and academic forums. These accolades reflect her dedication to advancing innovative and technology-driven solutions for sustainable food production and environmental conservation.

🌍Research skills Medicinal Plants

Mevuni Jayathilaka possesses strong research skills in plant science, sustainable agriculture, and biosystems technology. Her expertise includes the study of secondary metabolites in medicinal plants, abiotic stress adaptation, and hydroponic cultivation. She has extensive experience in precision agriculture, integrating IoT-based solutions for climate-resilient farming systems. Mevuni is skilled in GIS and remote sensing applications for agricultural analysis, along with crop modeling techniques for yield optimization. Her data analysis proficiency includes programming in R and Python, allowing her to conduct complex statistical modeling for agricultural research. She is adept at experimental design, field trials, and laboratory techniques for soil and plant nutrient analysis. Additionally, she has expertise in sustainable irrigation strategies and soil fertility management. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges traditional agriculture with modern technological advancements, enabling her to develop innovative, science-based solutions for global food security and environmental sustainability.

📖Publications

Growth and polyphenol content of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L. Dunal) under combined drought stress and salicylic acid treatment

  • Authors: MS Jayathilaka, S Subasinghe, KMW Rajawatta, KHT Karunarathna

  • Journal: Discover Plants

  • Year: 2025

Growth and Yield Performances of Ipomea aquatica (Water Spinach) as Affected by Different Liquid Fertilizers in Static Solution Culture

  • Authors: S Upamalika, SIS De Silva, MS Jayathilaka, KMW Rajawatta, W Hewage, …

  • Journal: University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka

  • Year: 2023

INHOUSE CULTIVATION OF Withania somnifera (ASHAWANGHA) USING HYDROPONICS

  • Authors: MS Jayathilaka, S Subasinghe, KMW Rajawatta, KHT Karunarathne

  • Journal: Not specified

  • Year: 2023

Investigation on the Issues of Protected House Farmers’ Sub Agricultural Sector in Sri Lanka. A Case Study of Farmers in Matara District, Southern Province Sri Lanka.

  • Authors: MS Jayathilaka, HAC Priyankara, BCS Ranasinghe

  • Journal: University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka

  • Year: 2022

Investigation of the Potential to Introduce Internet of Things (IoT) Based Micro-Climate Controlling System for Salad Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) in Conventional Protected Houses

  • Authors: MS Jayathilaka, K Adikaram, H Kumarasinghe, GY Jayasinghe

  • Journal: Sri Lankan Journal of Agriculture and Ecosystems

  • Year: 2022

 

Rim WERHENI | microbiology | Best Researcher Award

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Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rim WERHENI | microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Faculty of medecine tunis | Tunisia

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🌿 DR. RIM WERHENI AMMERI: PIONEER IN ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY 

INTRODUCTION

Dr. Rim Werheni Ammeri is a distinguished Associate Professor of Environmental Microbiology, renowned for her extensive research in sustainable water management and bioremediation. Born on March 20, 1985, in Tabarka, Jendouba, Tunisia, she has dedicated her career to addressing environmental challenges through innovative scientific approaches.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Ammeri’s academic journey commenced with a Diploma of Basic Degree in Life Sciences Biotechnology from the Faculty of Sciences of Tunis (2006–2009). She furthered her expertise by obtaining a Research Master’s in Microbiology from the Water Research and Technology Center (CERTE) between 2011 and 2013. Her commitment to environmental microbiology led her to pursue a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences, specializing in Microbiology, at CERTE from 2013 to 2017. She also completed a Research Master’s in Bioinformatics at the Pasteur Institute Tunis and the Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Sidi Thabet (2020–2022).

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Ammeri’s professional trajectory includes significant roles such as a Postdoctoral Scholar at the Arid Lands Institute, focusing on eremology and combating desertification (2019–2022). She currently serves as an Associate Professor of Environmental Microbiology in Tunis, Tunisia (2024–2025), where she imparts her knowledge to the next generation of scientists.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON microbiology 

Her research primarily revolves around sustainable water management and bioremediation techniques. Notably, she has contributed to projects like the Mediterranean Integrated System for Water Supply (MEDISS), aiming to improve saline groundwater quality for irrigation, and the Sustainable Water Re-use with Innovative Purification and Sensing System for the Agri-food Supply Chain (SWRIPS), focusing on efficient water usage in agriculture.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Ammeri’s work has significantly impacted environmental sustainability practices, particularly in arid regions. Her research on using treated wastewater for irrigation has provided alternative solutions for water scarcity, enhancing soil fertility and agricultural productivity.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Among her notable publications is “Phytoremédiation-bioaugmentation des eaux usées: cas Pentachlorophenol,” which explores the combined techniques of phytoremediation and bioaugmentation for treating wastewater contaminated by pentachlorophenol (PCP). This study demonstrated the effectiveness of using Typha latifolia in association with the fungus Aspergillus Sidoii to reduce PCP concentration in wastewater.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

Throughout her career, Dr. Ammeri has been recognized for her contributions to environmental microbiology, receiving accolades that highlight her commitment to sustainable environmental practices.

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

As a pioneer in her field, Dr. Ammeri’s legacy lies in her holistic approach to environmental challenges, integrating microbiology with practical solutions for water scarcity and soil degradation. Her ongoing research and projects are poised to contribute significantly to sustainable agricultural practices and environmental conservation.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Rim Werheni Ammeri exemplifies dedication to environmental sustainability through scientific innovation. Her work continues to inspire and influence practices in water management and bioremediation.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Impact of Phosphorus Biofertilization on Arid Tunisian Soils Irrigated with Treated Wastewater
  • Authors: Rim Werheni Ammeri, Yassine Hidri, Maroua Ouesleti, Saieffedine Eturki, Najla Sadfi-Zouaoui, Abdenaceur Hassen
    Journal: Journal of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition
    Year: 2025
Application of a cocktail of three bacteriophages for the biocontrol of Salmonella in raw fresh milk
  • Authors: Imen Sallami, Rim Werheni Ammeri, Yosra Turki-Ghodbane, Abdenaceur Hassan
    Journal: Preprint
    Year: 2024
Effectiveness of combined tools: adsorption, bioaugmentation and phytoremediation for pesticides removal from wastewater
  • Authors: Rim Werheni Ammeri, Saifeddine Eturki, Giuseppe Di Rauso Simeone, Kawther Ben Moussa, Wafa Hassen, Mohamed Moussa, Abdennaceur Hassen
    Journal: International Journal of Phytoremediation
    Year: 2023
Bioaugmentation and phytoremediation wastewater treatment process as a viable alternative for pesticides removal: case of pentachlorophenol
  • Authors: Rim Werheni Ammeri, Soulwene Kouki, Wafa Hassen, Maroua Oueslati, Najla Sadfi-Zouaoui, Abdenaceur Hassen
    Journal: Journal of Environmental Health Science and Engineering
    Year: 2023
Pesticide removal by the bioaugmentation process in secondary treated wastewater
  • Authors: Rim Werheni Ammeri, Salma Kloula, Giuseppe Di Rauso Simeone, Ines Mehri, Wafa Hassan, Abdenaceur Hassen
    Journal: Water Quality Research Journal
    Year: 2023

 

Takwa Wannassi | Plant-Animal Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Takwa Wannassi | Plant-Animal Interactions | Best Researcher Award

Regional Center Of Research Agricultural Sidi Bouzid | Tunisia

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TAKWA WANNASSI: A LEADING RESEARCHER IN PLANT PROTECTION AND SOIL MICROBIOMES 🌿

INTRODUCTION

Takwa Wannassi is a distinguished postdoctoral researcher specializing in plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPR) and soil microbiomes. With a strong foundation in plant protection and environmental sciences, her work aims to enhance plant growth and combat diseases through innovative microbial interactions. Based in Tunisia, she has gained extensive experience in molecular biology, pest management, and genomics, contributing significantly to agricultural sustainability.

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Takwa Wannassi’s academic journey began with a strong focus on biological sciences. She earned her Secondary Education Certificate in Experimental Science from Houcine Bouzaiene High School, Gafsa, Tunisia, before advancing to the Higher Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Gabes for her preparatory cycle in Biology and Geology. She later pursued an Engineer Degree in Horticulture with a specialization in Plant Protection at the Higher Institute of Agronomic Sciences of Chott Mariem (ISA-CM), University of Sousse. Her academic dedication culminated in a Ph.D. in Plant Protection and Environment from the same institution.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Takwa Wannassi has held several prestigious research positions, including:

  • Postdoctoral Fellow at CRRA Sidi Bouzid (2025): Conducting metagenomic analysis and supervising student research as part of the REVINE Project.
  • Postdoctoral Fellow at ISA-CM (2023): Working on the ASTER Prima project, screening endosymbiont bacteria in invasive pests.
  • Development Engineer at the Technical Center of Dates (2022-2023): Implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies and monitoring crop damage.
  • Responsible for the Insectarium at ISA-CM (2022-2023): Managing insect colonies and research operations in entomology laboratories.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON agricultural 

Takwa Wannassi’s research primarily revolves around plant-microbe interactions, emphasizing:

  • Screening PGPR for plant growth and disease protection.
  • Metagenomic analysis of soil microbiomes.
  • Identification and characterization of bacteria and fungi linked to plant health.
  • Sustainable agricultural solutions using microbial interventions. Her expertise extends to DNA extraction, PCR, bioinformatics, and microbial genomics, making her a crucial contributor to agricultural research.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Her contributions to plant protection and microbiome research have advanced sustainable agriculture practices, aiding in disease management and soil health restoration. Her work in invasive pest control has significant implications for food security and crop resilience in Tunisia and beyond.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS

Takwa Wannassi has authored numerous impactful research papers, including:

  • “Emergence of the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi as an economic pest of apricots in Tunisia” (Phytoparasitica Journal)
  • “Insights on the bioecology of the invasive apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi in Tunisia” (Biologia Journal)
  • “The cotton mealybug Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley is spreading in North Africa: first report in Tunisia” (Oriental Insects Journal)
  • “Prevalence of Wolbachia infection in field natural population of the apricot seed wasp” (International Microbiology Journal)
  • “Exploration of bacterial composition and diversity within the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi by 16S rRNA Illumina sequencing” (Symbiosis Journal)

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Best Poster Award (TJASSST 2019)
  • Research Award, University of Victoria, Canada (2019)
  • Mitacs Globalink Research Award, Acadia University, Canada (2021)
  • Best Oral Communication Award, 13th Arab Plant Protection Conference (2022)

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Looking ahead, Takwa Wannassi aims to: Expand international collaborations in microbial genomics and plant-microbe interactions. Contribute to the development of eco-friendly biofertilizers and biopesticides. Continue mentoring young researchers and students in agricultural biotechnology.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Takwa Wannassi remains committed to advancing plant protection research and sustainable agricultural practices. Her relentless pursuit of knowledge and scientific innovation positions her as a key figure in microbiome studies and plant health improvement.

📑NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

Exploration of bacterial composition and diversity within the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) by 16S rRNA Illumina sequencing
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Chahnez Naccache, Brahim Chermiti, and Maha Mezghani Khemakhem
  • Journal: Symbiosis
  • Year: 2025
Prevalence of Wolbachia infection in field natural population of the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae)
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Ahmed Sayadi, Khaled Abbes, Salma Djebbi, Chahnez Naccache, Maha Mezghani Khemakhem, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: International Microbiology
  • Year: 2024
The cotton mealybug Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) is spreading in North Africa: first report in Tunisia
  • Authors: Khaled Abbes, Ahlem Harbi, Takwa Wanassi, Michele Ricupero, Gaetana Mazzeo, Agatino Russo, Antonio Biondi, Lucia Zappalà, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: Oriental Insects
  • Year: 2023
Insights on the bioecology of the invasive apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) in Tunisia
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Khaled Abbes, Ahlem Harbi, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: Biologia
  • Year: 2023
Emergence of the apricot seed wasp Eurytoma samsonowi Vassiliev (Hymenoptera: Eurytomidae) as an economic pest of apricots in Tunisia
  • Authors: Takwa Wannassi, Ahlem Harbi, Khaled Abbes, Mohamed Elimem, Gérard Delvare, and Brahim Chermiti
  • Journal: Phytoparasitica
  • Year: 2022

 

Serdar TOPRAK | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Serdar TOPRAK | Soil Science | Best Researcher Award

Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry | Turkey

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🌱DR. SERDAR TOPRAK – ACADEMIC AND PROFESSIONAL LEGEND IN AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE 

📚 EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS

Dr. Serdar Toprak’s journey in agricultural sciences began with his undergraduate studies at Aydın Adnan Menderes University, where he majored in Soil and Plant Nutrition from 2002 to 2005. His passion for soil science and plant nutrition propelled him to pursue a Master’s Degree in the same department, earning his M.Sc. between 2006 and 2009. Later, he completed his PhD at the same institution from 2017 to 2022, focusing on the impact of organomineral fertilization on soil and crop productivity.

🧪 PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS

Dr. Toprak has held various important roles within Turkey’s agricultural research institutions. His career spans several positions, beginning with the Kocatepe Agricultural Research Institute from 2000 to 2002, followed by work at the District Agriculture and Forestry Directorate and the Soil and Water Resources Research Institute. From 2011 to 2014, he led projects at the Geçit Kuşağı Agricultural Research Institute, before moving to the Agricultural Production Enterprise in Söke, where he contributed to agricultural dissemination and training. Since 2024, Dr. Toprak serves at the District Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry in Kumluca, Antalya.

🔬 CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Soil Science 

Dr. Toprak has made significant contributions to agricultural science, particularly in soil fertility, plant nutrition, and fertilizer applications. His research emphasizes the relationship between phosphorus-enriched organomineral fertilizers and crop yield, particularly in wheat, chestnuts, and pomegranates. His work on sustainable agriculture includes studies on green fertilization, nutrient management, and soil pollution. He has also explored the use of reduced tillage systems and irrigation techniques in enhancing agricultural productivity.

🌍 IMPACT AND INFLUENCE

Dr. Toprak’s work has had a profound impact on agricultural practices in Turkey, helping optimize soil health and crop yield in various agricultural regions. His research is frequently cited in leading international agricultural journals, advancing the knowledge base in soil science and plant nutrition. Dr. Toprak’s efforts in training agricultural professionals and sharing knowledge through symposiums have contributed to the modernization of agriculture in Turkey.

📈 ACADEMIC CITATIONS 

Dr. Toprak has authored numerous highly cited publications in renowned journals such as Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis and the International Journal of Environmental Health Research. His work on phosphorus-enriched fertilization and nutrient management has provided valuable insights into the efficient use of fertilizers for crop production and environmental sustainability.

🏅 HONORS & AWARDS

  • Best Researcher Award, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, 2018
  • Outstanding Contribution to Agricultural Science, Turkish Soil Science Society, 2021
  • Excellence in Research Award, Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of the Republic of Turkey, 2022

🌐 LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Toprak’s research continues to shape the future of agriculture in Turkey and beyond. His work on sustainable farming systems, soil health, and plant nutrition promises to influence future agricultural practices. His legacy will likely inspire generations of researchers dedicated to improving agricultural sustainability and addressing global challenges related to food security and environmental preservation.

🌠 FINAL NOTE

Dr. Serdar Toprak’s work in agricultural sciences demonstrates a commitment to improving soil health, optimizing crop yields, and contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. His dedication to research and teaching has solidified his position as a leading expert in the field of soil and plant nutrition.

📑 NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS 

“The seasonal changes of nutritional elements of chestnut (Castanea sativa) plant and determination of leaf sampling times”

  • Authors: S. Toprak, S. Seferoğlu
  • Journal: American Journal of Research Communication
  • Year: 2013

“Elma’nın beslenmesi üzerine demir zengin organomineral gübrelerin etkisi”

  • Author: S. Toprak
  • Journal: Uluslararası Anadolu Ziraat Mühendisliği Bilimleri Dergisi
  • Year: 2019

“Effect of Different Nitrogen Levels on Nut Yield and Some Quality Properties of Sweet Chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.)”

  • Author: S. Toprak
  • Journal: Yuzuncu Yıl University Journal of Agricultural Sciences
  • Year: 2019

“Ecological and contamination assessment of soil in the region of coal-fired thermal power plant”

  • Authors: Ö. Ateş, K. Taşpınar, G. Yalçın, F. Kızılaslan, M.Ö. Pınar, S. Toprak, et al.
  • Journal: International Journal of Environmental Health Research
  • Year: 2023

“Balanced basic fertilization in sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.): vertical distribution of plant nutrients in different soil textures”

  • Author: S. Toprak
  • Year: 2021

“The macro and micro nutrition status of sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) in Inegol (Bursa-Turkey)”

  • Author: S. Toprak
  • Journal: Eurasian Journal of Forest Science
  • Year: 2019

“Soil contamination, pollution indices, and ecological risk in agricultural areas of important mining region of Türkiye”

  • Authors: K. Taşpınar, Ö. Ateş, G. Yalçın, F. Kızılaslan, M.Ö. Pınar, S. Toprak, et al.
  • Journal: International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry
  • Year: 2023

“The effect of potassium applications on fruit yield and some quality characteristics of sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.)”

  • Author: S. Toprak
  • Journal: International Journal of Agriculture Forestry and Life Sciences
  • Year: 2019

“Phosphorus-Enriched Organomineral Fertilizers Affect the Cation Exchange Algorithm of the Soil: A Comparative Evaluation”

  • Authors: S. Toprak, S. Seferoğlu
  • Journal: Yuzuncu Yıl University Journal of Agricultural Sciences
  • Year: 2023

“Changes in Qualitative and Quantitative Traits of Anatolian Chestnuts (Castanea sativa Mill.) Fruit Due to Balanced Macro Fertilization”

  • Authors: S. Toprak, Ö. Ateş, G. Yalçın, K. Taşpınar
  • Journal: Yuzuncu Yıl University Journal of Agricultural Sciences
  • Year: 2021