Sara Godena | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Innovative Research Award

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Innovative Research Award

Sara Godena
Institute of Agriculture and Tourism, Croatia

Sara Godena
Affiliation Institute of Agriculture and Tourism
Country Croatia
Scopus ID 36760599700
Documents 36
Citations 388
h-index 11
Subject Area Agricultural and Biological Sciences
Event International Soil Scientist Awards
ORCID 0000-0003-1937-4611

Sara Godena is a researcher affiliated with the Institute of Agriculture and Tourism in Croatia whose documented scholarly activity falls within Agricultural and Biological Sciences. Her research profile includes plant health, olive production, biological control, plant-derived antimicrobial agents, and sustainable approaches to agricultural disease management. Her reported research record comprises 36 documents, 388 citations, and an h-index of 11. [1]

Abstract

Sara Godena’s research portfolio demonstrates a focus on practical agricultural and plant-health challenges, particularly those affecting olive cultivation. Recent studies address olive-associated fungal and bacterial pathogens, essential oils, plant-based agents, olive mill wastewater, pathogen diversity, and varietal susceptibility. These themes connect biological research with environmentally conscious disease-management strategies and contribute to the development of alternatives to conventional chemical control. [2]

Keywords

Olive pathology; plant health; biological control; essential oils; plant-based agents; Botryosphaeriaceae; Pseudomonas savastanoi; olive mill wastewater; sustainable agriculture; agricultural microbiology.

Introduction

Olive production is affected by diverse fungal and bacterial organisms that can influence plant health and productivity. Godena’s recent publications investigate these challenges through pathogen characterization, antimicrobial evaluation, varietal assessment, and exploration of plant-derived or agricultural by-product-based interventions. Such research is relevant to integrated plant disease management and the broader objective of reducing reliance on conventional inputs. [3]

Research Profile

The research profile combines plant pathology, microbiology, agricultural biotechnology, and sustainable crop protection. Published work examines both pathogen biology and potential control measures, creating a research pathway from identification and characterization toward application-oriented disease management.

Research Contributions

  • Assessment of olive-associated Botryosphaeriaceae diversity and pathogenicity in Istria, Croatia. [5]
  • Investigation of plant-based agents and essential oils for antimicrobial and antifungal activity. [3]
  • Evaluation of olive mill wastewater as a potential source of bioactive compounds for plant disease management. [2]

Publications

Selected recent publications include studies in Horticulturae, Agronomy, Agriculture, Plants, and Microorganisms. The 2025 Horticulturae article examines physicochemical characteristics and antifungal activity of olive mill wastewaters against Botryosphaeriaceae, while related studies investigate plant-based growth promoters, green bactericides, essential oils, fungal pathogens, and bacterial disease susceptibility. [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]

Research Impact

The reported 388 citations and h-index of 11 indicate measurable scholarly visibility within the researcher’s indexed publication record. [1] The thematic continuity of the publications also demonstrates relevance to sustainable crop protection, especially where biological activity, plant-derived compounds, and agricultural residues can be evaluated as components of integrated management.

Award Suitability

The documented publication record, citation profile, and research emphasis provide a scholarly basis for consideration for the Innovative Research Award associated with the International Soil Scientist Awards. Particular relevance arises from research connecting agricultural production with plant protection and environmentally oriented approaches to pathogen management. Award consideration should be based on the complete nomination dossier and independent evaluation criteria.

Conclusion

Sara Godena’s research profile reflects sustained engagement with agricultural and biological sciences, with notable emphasis on olive health, plant pathogens, biological activity, and sustainable crop-protection approaches. Her indexed research output and recent publications provide a coherent foundation for academic recognition in innovative agricultural research.

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Sara Godena, Author ID 36760599700. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/pages/authors/36760599700
  2. MDPI. (2025). Integrated Analysis of Olive Mill Wastewaters: Physicochemical Profiling, Antifungal Activity, and Biocontrol Potential Against Botryosphaeriaceae. Horticulturae, 11(7), 819. DOI: 10.3390/horticulturae11070819
  3. MDPI. (2025). Potential of Plant-Based Agents as Next-Generation Plant Growth-Promotors and Green Bactericides Against Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. savastanoi. Agronomy, 15(4), 819. DOI: 10.3390/agronomy15040819
  4. MDPI. (2025). Antifungal Efficacy of Essential Oils and Their Predominant Components Against Olive Fungal Pathogens. Agriculture, 15(3), 340. DOI: 10.3390/agriculture15030340
  5. MDPI. (2024). Diversity and Pathogenicity of Botryosphaeriaceae Species Isolated from Olives in Istria, Croatia, and Evaluation of Varietal Resistance. Plants, 13(13), 1813. DOI: 10.3390/plants13131813
  6. MDPI. (2024). Varietal Susceptibility of Olive to Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. savastanoi and the Antibacterial Potential of Plant-Based Agents. Microorganisms, 12(7), 1301. DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12071301

Lei Zhang | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Lei Zhang | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Dr. Lei Zhang, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, China

Prof. Dr. Lei Zhang is a Professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, China, and a Visiting Scholar at the Robotics Laboratory of Texas State University. He holds a Doctor of Engineering in Mechatronics from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and specializes in mechanism synthesis, agricultural machinery, and robotics. With leadership in numerous national and provincial research projects, he has published over 40 academic papers and holds more than 70 patents. He is an active member of IEEE and serves as an editor and reviewer for several international journals.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Prof. Dr. Lei Zhang’s extensive research in mechatronics, agricultural machinery, and robotics has positioned him as a leader in his field. His ability to integrate complex engineering solutions with real-world applications is exemplified by his numerous patents, high-impact publications, and successful project leadership. As a professor at Zhejiang Sci-Tech University and a visiting scholar at Texas State University, he continues to influence the next generation of engineers and researchers. His contributions not only advance technical knowledge but also promote innovation in sustainable agricultural practices and automation.

🎓 Education

Lei Zhang holds a Doctor of Engineering degree in Mechatronics Engineering from the Shenyang Research Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences. He earned his Master’s degree in Mechatronics Engineering from the College of Mechanical Engineering and Applied Electronics Technology, Beijing Polytechnic University, and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Design and Manufacturing from the School of Mechanical Engineering, Shandong University of Technology.

đź’ĽExperience

Lei Zhang is a Professor at the School of Mechanical Engineering, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, where he has served since 2008 in various academic roles including Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Master’s Supervisor. He is also a Visiting Scholar at the Robotics Laboratory of Texas State University. Earlier in his career, he worked as an Assistant Lecturer at Shandong Second Vocational College.

🔬Research Focus

Lei Zhang’s research focuses on mechanism synthesis, agricultural machinery, and robotics. He has led and participated in multiple high-level research projects, including a sub-project under the National Key Research and Development Program of the 14th Five-Year Plan, two National Natural Science Foundation of China projects, and several initiatives sponsored by provincial departments and industry partners. His work has led to the publication of over 40 academic papers, with more than 30 indexed by SCI and EI.

🛠️Skills

Professor Zhang possesses extensive expertise in mechanism synthesis, agricultural machinery equipment, and robot technology. His technical strengths are further demonstrated by his portfolio of over 40 invention patents and 36 utility model patents. He is highly skilled in managing and executing research projects and has successfully led numerous national and provincial-level research initiatives as well as enterprise-commissioned projects.

🏆Awards

Lei Zhang has received multiple prestigious awards in recognition of his contributions to science and technology. He was awarded the Second Prize in the Zhejiang Provincial Science and Technology Progress Award in 2017 for his work on adjustable-presser-foot thread-breakage-responsive wide-format embroidery machines. In 2021, he earned the Third Prize in the same award category for the development and industrial application of multi-head wide-format ultra-high-speed embroidery equipment.

đź“š Publications

Title: Lightweight Classification of Lotus Seedpod Quality Using Improved YOLOv3-Tiny Model
Authors: L. Zhang; H. Yan; Y. Jia; B. Ye; Z. Ma
Year: 2024
Journal: Nongye Gongcheng Xuebao / Transactions of the Chinese Society of Agricultural Engineering

Title: Analysis and Optimization of Low-Resistance Animal Bionic Subsoiling Shovel Based on EDEM
Authors: L. Zhang; X. Wang; J. Chen; H. Wang; Y. Cao
Year: 2024
Journal: Agriculture (Switzerland)

Title: Optimization Design and Experiment of Cam-Elliptical Gear Combined Vegetables Curved Surface Labeling Mechanism
Authors: L. Zhang; H. Zhou; J. Chen; Y. Liu; X. Zhang
Year: 2024
Journal: Frontiers in Robotics and AI

Conclusion:

Prof. Dr. Lei Zhang’s excellence in research, patent contributions, and project leadership makes him a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award. His groundbreaking work in agricultural machinery and robotics showcases his potential to drive further advancements in technology that address real-world challenges. While opportunities for greater global collaboration and outreach exist, Prof. Zhang’s current body of work undeniably positions him as a leading researcher, deserving recognition for his innovative contributions to both academia and industry.

Samia Daldoul | Agricultural | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Samia Daldoul | Agricultural | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Samia Daldoul, Centre of biotechnology of borj cedria, Tunisia

Dr. Samia Daldoul is an Assistant Professor at the Centre of Biotechnology of Borj Cedria, Tunisia, specializing in plant biotechnology and molecular biology. She earned her Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology from the Faculty of Sciences of Tunis in 2010, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at the Center of Biotechnology, Technopark of Borj-CĂ©dria, Tunisia. Her research focuses on plant stress responses, particularly in grapevines, investigating mechanisms of tolerance to salinity, drought, and diseases through genomics, transcriptomics, and biotechnology approaches. She has been actively involved in numerous international research collaborations, including DAAD-funded projects in Germany and COST actions in Europe.

 

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Samia Daldoul is an outstanding researcher in plant biotechnology, specializing in grapevine stress responses and abiotic stress tolerance. Her contributions are scientifically relevant, internationally recognized, and impactful in the context of sustainable agriculture. She has a strong publication record, international collaborations, and interdisciplinary expertise, making her an excellent candidate for the Women Researcher Award.

 

🎓 Education

Dr. Samia Daldoul earned her Ph.D. in Plant Biotechnology from the Faculty of Sciences of Tunis, Tunisia, in 2010. Following her doctoral studies, she completed a postdoctoral fellowship in 2011 at the Center of Biotechnology, Technopark of Borj-CĂ©dria, Tunisia.

 

đź’ĽExperience

Since 2012, Dr. Daldoul has held a permanent position as an Assistant Professor at the Center of Biotechnology of Borj-CĂ©dria in Tunisia. She has also participated in multiple international fellowships and research collaborations, notably through the Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD) program in Germany, where she worked with teams specializing in genomics, genetic engineering, virology, and plant pathology. Additionally, she undertook a short-term scientific mission funded by the European Network COST in France, focusing on grapevine defense mechanisms and stress adaptation.

 

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Daldoul specializes in plant biotechnology, with a strong emphasis on grapevine responses to abiotic and biotic stresses, particularly salinity and drought. Her research integrates genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics approaches to understand plant resilience mechanisms. She has been actively involved in international research projects addressing viticulture sustainability, grapevine improvement through omics technologies, genome editing, and epigenetic mechanisms for crop adaptation to climate change.

 

Awards

Dr. Daldoul has received multiple prestigious fellowships from DAAD, allowing her to work with leading research institutions in Germany. She has also contributed to several high-impact international projects, including those funded by the European Union and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions.

 

Skills

With extensive expertise in molecular biology, plant genetics, and biotechnology, Dr. Daldoul is skilled in advanced gene sequencing, transcriptome analysis, functional genomics, and bioinformatics. She also has experience in plant stress physiology, cell culture techniques, and genetic transformation. Her proficiency extends to project management and international scientific collaboration.

 

Publications

  • Deciphering the regulatory networks involved in mild and severe salt stress responses in the roots of wild grapevine Vitis vinifera spp. sylvestris – Daldoul, S., Hanzouli, F., Boubakri, H., Mliki, A., Gargouri, M. (2024) – 0 citations.

 

  • Evidence of an active role of resveratrol derivatives in the tolerance of wild grapevines (Vitis vinifera ssp. sylvestris) to salinity – Hanzouli, F., Zemni, H., Gargouri, M., Vincenzi, S., Daldoul, S. (2024) – 0 citations.

 

  • Stilbene production as part of drought adaptation mechanisms in cultivated grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) roots modulates antioxidant status – Hanzouli, F., Daldoul, S., Zemni, H., Mliki, A., Gargouri, M. (2024) – 0 citations.

 

  • Enhancing biological activities and phenolic content of wild grapevine roots by severe drought stress – Daldoul, S., Hanzouli, F., Fares, N., Mliki, A., Gargouri, M. (2024) – 1 citation.

 

  • A Tunisian wild grape leads to metabolic fingerprints of salt tolerance – Daldoul, S., Gargouri, M., Weinert, C., Mliki, A., Nick, P. (2023) – 5 citations.

 

  • Ectopic expression of a grapevine alkaline α-galactosidase seed imbibition protein VvSIP enhanced salinity tolerance in transgenic tobacco plants – Ben-Amar, A., Daldoul, S., Allel, D., Wetzel, T., Mliki, A. (2023) – 3 citations.

 

  • The root transcriptome dynamics reveals new valuable insights in the salt-resilience mechanism of wild grapevine (Vitis vinifera subsp. sylvestris) – Daldoul, S., Hanzouli, F., Hamdi, Z., Mliki, A., Gargouri, M. (2022) – 10 citations.

 

  • First report of grapevine Virus L in grapevine in Tunisia – Ben Amar, A., Daldoul, S., Zemni, H., Olmos, A., Ruiz-GarcĂ­a, A.B. (2020) – 5 citations.

Conclusion:

Dr. Daldoul’s research contributions align well with the objectives of the Women Researcher Award, particularly in advancing sustainable agriculture, plant stress tolerance, and biotechnological applications. Given her strong scientific impact, international collaborations, and focus on climate resilience, she is a highly suitable candidate. However, expanding her leadership role, outreach, and grant acquisition would further solidify her candidacy.