Kaouthar Feki | Plants Gene Transformation | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Kaouthar Feki | Plants Gene Transformation | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor | Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax | Tunisia

Dr. Kaouthar Feki is an accomplished Associate Professor at the Biotechnology and Plant Improvement Laboratory, Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax, Tunisia. Her expertise lies in plant biotechnology, molecular genetics, stress response, genome-wide analysis, plant transformation, and protein purification. She has made significant contributions to the understanding of plant adaptation mechanisms under abiotic stress through her extensive research on wheat, legumes, and other model plants. Dr. Kaouthar Feki has a strong academic background with advanced degrees in biological, molecular, and cellular sciences from the University of Sfax. As a passionate educator, she has taught and supervised graduate students in genetics, microbiology, and plant sciences at several Tunisian universities, guiding numerous master’s and doctoral researchers. She has participated in several international workshops focusing on genomics, metagenomics, and bioinformatics, enhancing her interdisciplinary research capabilities. A respected scholar, Dr. Kaouthar Feki serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Plant Sciences and is an active peer reviewer for multiple high-impact journals. Her research achievements include 672 citations across 546 documents, with 29 publications and an h-index of 14, reflecting her strong academic impact and recognition. Her international publications and book chapters highlight her dedication to advancing sustainable agricultural practices through biotechnological innovation. Multilingual and collaborative, she continues to foster scientific excellence and mentorship within the global research community, contributing profoundly to the field of plant molecular biology and stress physiology.

Featured Publications

Feki, K., Quintero, F. J., Khoudi, H., Leidi, E. O., Masmoudi, K., Pardo, J. M., & Brini, F. (2014). A constitutively active form of a durum wheat Na+/H+ antiporter SOS1 confers high salt tolerance to transgenic Arabidopsis. Plant Cell Reports, 33(2), 277-288.

Saibi, W., Feki, K., Ben Mahmoud, R., & Brini, F. (2015). Durum wheat dehydrin (DHN-5) confers salinity tolerance to transgenic Arabidopsis plants through the regulation of proline metabolism and ROS scavenging system. Planta, 242(5), 1187-1194.

Feki, K., Tounsi, S., Mrabet, M., Mhadhbi, H., & Brini, F. (2021). Recent advances in physiological and molecular mechanisms of heavy metal accumulation in plants. Environmental Science and Pollution Research, 28(46), 64967-64986.

Feki, K., Quintero, F. J., Pardo, J. M., & Masmoudi, K. (2011). Regulation of durum wheat Na+/H+ exchanger TdSOS1 by phosphorylation. Plant Molecular Biology, 76(6), 545-556.

Kaouthar, F., Ameny, F. K., Yosra, K., Walid, S., Ali, G., & Faical, B. (2016). Responses of transgenic Arabidopsis plants and recombinant yeast cells expressing a novel durum wheat manganese superoxide dismutase TdMnSOD to various abiotic stresses. Journal of Plant Physiology, 198, 56-68.

Prof. Maritza Ruiz Medina | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Maritza Ruiz Medina | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Maritza Ruiz Medina, Escuela Politécnica Nacional – Universidad Técnica del Norte, Ecuador

👩‍🔬 Maritza Dolores Ruiz Medina is an accomplished professional in the field of chemical engineering and environmental management. With over two decades of experience, she has contributed significantly to the agroindustry and academic sectors in Ecuador. Maritza is known for her dedication to education, having obtained multiple degrees and diplomas in chemical engineering, environmental systems management, and educational innovation. Her commitment to both science and teaching has made her a highly respected figure in her field.

Profile

Based on Maritza Dolores Ruiz Medina’s curriculum vitae, she demonstrates extensive qualifications in chemical engineering, environmental management, agroindustry, and educational innovation. Her academic background, with multiple degrees, including a master’s degree in Environmental Management and a nearly completed Ph.D. in Food Science and Technology, showcases her deep expertise in these fields. Additionally, her wide range of certifications, professional development courses, and seminars in agriculture, education, and environmental sciences strengthen her profile.

Strengths for the Award

Diverse Educational Background: Maritza has earned advanced degrees in both environmental management and chemical engineering, demonstrating expertise in critical fields.

Research & Academic Experience: Her nearly completed Ph.D. in food science, along with significant participation in numerous international courses and research events, highlights her strong research capabilities.

Commitment to Innovation: Her certifications in virtual education, neuroeducation, and digital learning platforms reflect a commitment to innovation and education.

Community Involvement: Participation in various international courses focused on agriculture and food systems, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, shows her dedication to addressing global challenges.

Areas for Improvement

Focused Research Output: While her involvement in various professional courses is commendable, demonstrating more published research and contributions to scientific journals in specific fields like food science or agroindustry could strengthen her candidacy.

Global Collaboration: Further involvement in international research collaborations, especially in the field of agroindustry and food technology, may elevate her profile globally.

Education

🎓 Maritza holds several prestigious academic degrees and diplomas. She began her academic journey by earning a Técnico Superior in Agroindustry from Instituto Tecnológico Raúl Prebisch, Ecuador, in 2003. In 2015, she obtained her Engineering degree in Chemical Engineering from Escuela Politécnica Nacional, Ecuador. She further advanced her education by completing a Master’s degree in Environmental Systems Management in 2018 and a Magister in Technology and Educational Innovation in 2023. Additionally, she has undertaken several diplomas in virtual teaching, neuroeducation, and food sciences.

Experience

💼 Maritza Ruiz Medina has a vast and varied experience in both the academic and industrial sectors. She has been a lecturer and advisor at multiple institutions, including the Escuela Politécnica Nacional and Universidad Técnica del Norte in Ecuador. Maritza’s expertise extends to agroindustry, where she has applied her skills in chemical engineering and environmental management to contribute to sustainable practices. Her commitment to enhancing educational methods is evident in her numerous workshops and virtual teaching certifications.

Research Interest

🔬 Maritza’s research interests lie at the intersection of food science, environmental management, and chemical engineering. She is particularly focused on sustainability, post-harvest food technologies, and educational innovation through virtual teaching tools. Her current research is in the field of Food Science and Technology, as she works toward completing her Ph.D. in Food Science by 2024.

Awards

🏆 Throughout her career, Maritza has received numerous recognitions for her contributions to both academia and industry. These include awards for her teaching methodologies, leadership in virtual education, and innovations in agroindustry practices. Her achievements reflect her commitment to education and environmental sustainability.

Publication Top Notes

Diseño de un recubrimiento comestible bioactivo para aplicarlo en la frutilla (Fragaria vesca) como proceso de postcosecha

Analysis of the water quality of the monjas river: Monitoring and control system

Water treatment monitoring system at san jose de chaltura, imbabura-ecuador

Postharvest Alternatives in Banana Cultivation

Post-Harvest Alternatives in Banana Cultivation

Coclusion

Maritza Dolores Ruiz Medina is a strong contender for the Best Researcher Award due to her diverse expertise in chemical engineering, food technology, and environmental management. Her commitment to education and research positions her well for recognition, though a more focused research output and broader global collaboration would enhance her profile further.