Elaine Fitches | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Prof. Elaine Fitches | Agricultural | Best Researcher Award

Professor | University of Durham | United Kingdom

Professor Elaine Charlotte Fitches is a renowned applied entomologist specializing in insect biotechnology. Her work spans innovative pest control solutions and the exploration of insects as a sustainable resource. With over 60 peer-reviewed publications and groundbreaking advancements in fusion protein technology, she has established herself as a leader in her field. Her collaborative efforts with industry partners and expertise in recombinant protein production underscore her significant contributions to sustainable agricultural practices and pest management.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Professor Fitches holds advanced degrees in biosciences, emphasizing applied entomology and biotechnology. Her academic journey laid the foundation for her pioneering research in insect-based biotechnological solutions. Her education emphasized the integration of molecular biology and pest control strategies, which continue to inform her research endeavors.

Experience

With a career spanning multiple decades, Professor Fitches has led nine major collaborative projects with commercial partners. Her extensive experience includes developing AI-supported recombinant protein design and producing functional prototypes for biopesticides. She is also the inventor of patented fusion protein technology, a transformative tool in pest management. Her practical skills in yeast-based protein expression systems and structural prediction software have driven numerous industry innovations.

Research Interests

Professor Fitches focuses on two main areas: the development of novel pest control strategies and the valorization of low-value waste through insect-based feed production. Her work explores the application of AI in designing fusion proteins that enhance the oral and topical efficacy of biopesticides. A key area of interest is combating the psyllid vectors responsible for Huanglongbing disease in citrus trees, which has devastating economic implications globally.

Awards

Professor Fitches has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to entomology and biotechnology. She has received multiple awards for her innovative approaches to pest control and sustainable agricultural practices. Her patented technologies and collaboration with international organizations underscore her role as a visionary in her field.

Publications

  1. Miranda MP, Fitches EC, et al. (2024): Spider venom neurotoxin-based bioinsecticides: A novel bioactive for controlling the Asian citrus psyllid Diaphorina citri. Toxicon 239: 107616. [Cited by 15 articles].
  2. De-Thier JS, Pyati P, et al. (2023): Heterologous production of the insecticidal pea seed albumin PA1 protein via Pichia pastoris fusion to snowdrop lectin. Microbial Cell Factories 22: 157. [Cited by 20 articles].
  3. Sukiran NA, Pyati P, et al. (2022): Enhancing the efficacy of spider venom peptide biopesticides via snowdrop lectin fusion. Pest Management Science. DOI 10.1002/ps.7198. [Cited by 10 articles].
  4. Bell J, Sukiran NA, et al. (2021): Insecticidal activity of recombinant nemertide toxin ⊍-1 from Lineus longissimus. Toxicon 79-86. [Cited by 12 articles].

Conclusion

Professor Elaine Charlotte Fitches exemplifies the integration of innovative research and practical applications in insect biotechnology. Her advancements in fusion protein technology and sustainable pest management have far-reaching implications for agriculture and environmental conservation. As a dedicated scientist and collaborator, her contributions continue to shape the future of applied entomology and biotechnology.

PERUMAL SIDDHURAJU | Environemntal Food Security | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by Academic achievements

Prof Dr.PERUMAL SIDDHURAJU | Environemntal Food Security | Best Researcher Award 

Professor and Head Department of Environmental Sciences,School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore- 641046, India

Dr. P. Siddhuraju is a distinguished Professor and Head of the Department of Environmental Sciences at Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, India. With a career spanning over 30 years, he has made significant contributions to environmental science and resource technology. His research focuses on bioresource potential, environmental food security, sewage wastewater reuse, microplastic pollution, and zero-waste agroecosystems. Dr. Siddhuraju has held prominent positions in academia and research globally, including roles in Germany and Spain. His achievements have earned him recognition as one of the top 2% scientists in the world.

Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Siddhuraju completed his Ph.D. in Botany from Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, in 1994 with high commendation. He earned his M. Phil. in Botany from the same university in 1990, following an M.Sc. in Botany from Annamalai University in 1988. His academic journey began with a B.Sc. in Botany from Gobi Arts and Science College in 1986.

Experience

Dr. Siddhuraju’s extensive career includes significant roles across various institutions. He began as a Senior Research Fellow and later worked as a Research Associate at Bharathiar University. His international experience includes post-doctoral research in Spain and Germany, where he served as an Alexander von Humboldt Fellow and Senior Scientist. He has been a Professor and Head at Bharathiar University since 2016, and has also served as the Dean of Research. His professional journey reflects a deep commitment to advancing environmental sciences.

Research Interests

Dr. Siddhuraju’s research primarily revolves around environmental science and bioresource technology. His interests include the bioresource potential of underutilized crops, environmental food security, sewage wastewater reuse, microplastic pollution, and zero-waste agroecosystems. He investigates the impact of neglected crops on soil fertility, livestock management, and agroecosystem sustainability, while also exploring the effects of microplastic pollution on the environment and agriculture.

Awards

Dr. Siddhuraju has received numerous accolades, including:

  • International Distinguished Research Excellence Award 2022 in Environmental Sciences.
  • Recognition as one of the top 2% scientists in India in the field of Environmental Food Security by Stanford University (2021).
  • Awarded E-Membership of the Society of Chemical Industry, London (2021).
  • Various fellowships from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and the Spanish Ministry of Education & Science.

Publications

Dr. Siddhuraju has contributed to numerous publications in prestigious journals. Notable articles include:

  • “Impact of Underutilized Crops on Environmental Food Security” published in Frontiers in Nutrition (2022). Link to publication
  • “Microplastic Pollution in Sewage Wastewater” in Environmental Science & Technology (2021). Link to publication