Takwa Wannassi | Plant-Animal Interactions | Best Researcher Award

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

 

Tavga Rashid | Plant Pathology | Plant Disease Control Innovation

Assist. Prof. Dr. Tavga Rashid | Plant Pathology | Plant Disease Control Innovation

Assist. Prof. Dr. Tavga Rashid at Salahaddin University , Iraq

🌱 Tavga Sulaiman Rashid is an Assistant Professor of Plant Pathology at Salahaddin University, Iraq. With over 15 years of teaching and research experience, she specializes in biological control and sustainable plant disease management. Dr. Rashid has made significant contributions to understanding the antimicrobial activities of plant extracts and their applications in controlling plant diseases, particularly in tomatoes and strawberries. She has held pivotal roles, including Head of the Plant Protection Department, and has mentored numerous students. Her impactful research has led to publications in esteemed journals, focusing on eco-friendly agricultural solutions. Passionate about innovation, she integrates biotechnology and plant pathology to enhance crop health and productivity.

PROFESSIOINAL PROFILE

Suitable for Plant Disease Control Innovation

Dr. Tavga Sulaiman Rashid’s blend of academic rigor, innovative research, and impactful teaching positions her as an exemplary candidate for the “Plant Disease Control Innovation” award. Her contributions align with the goals of fostering sustainable and eco-friendly plant protection strategies, making her a valuable asset to the field of agricultural sciences.

  🎓Education 

🎓 Ph.D. in Plant Pathology/Biological Control (2016) – University Putra Malaysia
Advisor: Kamaruzaman Sijam, Ph.D.
Thesis: Antimicrobial activity of Rhus coriaria fruit extracts against bacterial and fungal pathogens of tomatoes.

🎓 M.Sc. in Plant Pathology (2008) – Salahaddin University
Advisor: Khalid H. Taha, Ph.D.
Thesis: Tomato stem canker caused by Phoma lycopersici and methods of control.

🎓 B.A. in Plant Protection (2004) – Salahaddin University

Her academic foundation blends rigorous theoretical knowledge with practical expertise in diagnosing and controlling plant diseases.

  💼 Professional Experience 

👩‍🏫 Assistant Professor (2020–Present): Salahaddin University, College of Agricultural Engineering Sciences
🌱 Focus: Advanced research methodologies, biotechnology, and biological control.

👩‍🏫 Lecturer (2008–2020): Salahaddin University, teaching crop disease control, postharvest disease management, and advanced diagnostics.

💼 Department Head (2017–2021): Led the Plant Protection Department, streamlining curricula and research programs.

👩‍🏫 Assistant Lecturer (2008–2012): Guided students in practical plant pathology courses.

Her work has consistently bridged research and teaching, fostering sustainable agricultural practices.

 🏅Awards & Recognitions 

🏆 Recognized for her groundbreaking research on Rhus coriaria in biological control.
📜 Honored for contributions to sustainable agriculture at international conferences.
🌟 Received Salahaddin University’s Excellence in Research Award.

Dr. Rashid’s awards highlight her dedication to plant health, innovation, and eco-friendly agricultural practices.

  🌍 Research Skills On Plant Pathology

🔬 Expertise in biological control, plant-microbe interactions, and eco-friendly disease management.
🧪 Skilled in advanced techniques like HPLC and nanoemulsion formulation.
📊 Proficient in statistical analysis for agricultural research.

Her skills support innovative solutions for sustainable crop management.

 📖PUBLICATION TOP NOTES

  • “Quality and Yield of Potato Seed Tubers as Influenced by Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria”
    • Authors: Muhammad Raqib Rasul, Tavga Sulaiman Rashid
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: DOI: 10.1016/j.bcab.2024.103440
    • Source: Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology
  • “Bioactive constituents in Rhus coriaria L. fruit extract and their antibacterial activity against Xanthomonas vesicatoria”
    • Authors: Tavga Sulaiman Rashid, Hayman Kakakhan Awla
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: DOI: 10.1007/s10658-024-02952-8
    • Source: European Journal of Plant Pathology
  • “Investigating the in vivo biocontrol and growth-promoting efficacy of Bacillus sp. and Pseudomonas fluorescens against olive knot disease”
    • Authors: Avin Omer Ali, Hayman Kakakhan Awla, Tavga Sulaiman Rashid
    • Year: 2024
    • Citation: DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106645
    • Source: Microbial Pathogenesis
  • “Biocontrol Activities of Olive Endophytic Bacteria Isolates Against Pseudomonas savastanoi”
  • “Screening for antibacterial activity in selected medicinal plant extracts against Xanthomonas euvesicatoria”
  • “Antagonistic Activity and Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria Isolated from Forest Plant Rhizosphere Against Fusarium solani on Thuja Seedlings”
    • Authors: Yasin, B., Ali, O.O., Rashid, T.S.
    • Year: 2021
    • Citation: DOI: 10.36103/ijas.v52i6.1492
    • Source: Iraqi Journal of Agricultural Sciences
  • “Induction of Defence Related Enzymes and Biocontrol Efficacy of Trichoderma harzianum in Tomato Plants Infected with Fusarium oxysporum and Fusarium solani”
  • “Bioactive Metabolites from Tomato Endophytic Fungi with Antibacterial Activity Against Tomato Bacterial Spot Disease”
  • “HPLC Fractionation: A Comparative Analysis of Anti-Fungal Compounds from Different Streptomyces Isolates Inhibiting Colletotrichum acutatum”
    • Authors: Awla, H.K., Rashid, T.S.
    • Year: 2020
    • Citation: DOI: 10.1016/j.bcab.2020.101688
    • Source: Biocatalysis and Agricultural Biotechnology
  • “Abscisic Acid Accumulation and Physiological Indices in Responses to Drought Stress in Wheat Genotypes”
    • Authors: Qadir, S.A., Khursheed, M.Q., Rashid, T.S., Awla, H.K.
    • Year: 2019
    • Citation: EID: 2-s2.0-85065585231
    • Source: Iraqi Journal of Agricultural Sciences
  • “Influence of Two Varieties of Broad Bean and Beauveria bassiana (Blas) on Aphis fabae scop. Under Field Conditions”