Dušica Ilić | Plant Material | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Dušica Ilić | Plant Material | Women Researcher Award

Research Associate | University of Niš | Serbia

Dr. Dušica Ilić is a distinguished Research Associate in the field of technical and technological sciences, affiliated with the Faculty of Technology in Leskovac, University of Niš. She holds a PhD in Technical and Technological Sciences, earned through an accelerated study program, with a specialization in the synthesis and pharmacological profiling of bioactive compounds. Dr. Ilić’s academic foundation includes a graduate degree in wastewater treatment technologies and early training as a medical technician, demonstrating a multidisciplinary approach to science. Her professional experience spans leading roles in academic and industrial research, including contributions to national projects on pharmaceutical-cosmetic formulations, bioactive plant compounds, wastewater purification, and ICT applications in medicine and energy. She has served as a technologist, scientific associate, and educator, contributing to teaching, mentoring, and practical training at multiple institutions, including the Electronic Faculty in Niš and the Alfatec Research Center. Her research focuses on organic synthesis, phytopharmaceuticals, drug delivery systems, and the development of environmentally and clinically relevant technologies. Dr. Ilić has authored numerous scientific publications, contributed a book chapter, and developed innovative solutions with recognized national impact. A recipient of awards for academic excellence and human rights engagement, she is certified in English language proficiency, proficient in scientific computing tools, and holds membership in the Serbian Chemical Society. Her work is marked by a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, scientific rigor, and the practical application of research in both academic and industrial settings. She has 346 citations across 19 documents and holds an h-index of 11.

Profiles: Scopus | ORCID

Featured Publications

1. Ilić, D. P., Troter, Z. D., Stanojević, S. J., Cvetković, J. D., & Ristić, S. I. (2025). Intensified microwave-assisted hydrodistillation produces trans-anethole-rich fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) fruit essential oil. Chemical Industry and Chemical Engineering Quarterly.

2. Maletin, A., Ristić, I., Nešić, A., Knežević, M. J., Koprivica, D. Đ., Cakić, S., Ilić, D., Milekić, B., Puškar, T., & Pilić, B. (2023). Development of light-polymerized dental composite resin reinforced with electrospun polyamide layers. Polymers, 15(12), 2598.

3. Ilić, D., & Vukotić, D. (2023, November 13). Innovative extraction technologies. Trends in Horticulture, 6(2).

4. Ilić, D. P., Troter, Z. D., Ristić, I. C., Konstantinović, S. S., Stanojević, L. P., & Danilović, B. R. (2023, May 17). New technical solution (not commercialized). MN

5. Илић, Д. П., Тротер, Д. З., Ристић, И. С., Константиновић, С. С., Станојевић, Ј. С., Станојевић, Љ. П., & Даниловић, Б. Р. (2023, May 17). Technological process for the isolation of essential oil with enhanced antimicrobial activity from ground fennel fruit (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) [Technical standard]. Technological Faculty Leskovac; Faculty of Electronic Engineering Niš; Technological Faculty Novi Sad.

Anna Vatsanidou | Environmental Assessment | Best Academic Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Anna Vatsanidou | Environmental Assessment | Best Academic Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at National and Kapodistrian University of Athens | Greece

Dr. Anna Vatsanidou is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Agricultural Development, Agri-Food and Natural Resources Management, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA). She is an accomplished agriculturist with extensive expertise in precision and sustainable agriculture, environmental impact assessment, and life cycle analysis of agri-food systems. Her academic path and professional journey reflect a strong commitment to advancing agri-food sustainability and contributing to innovative solutions for global agricultural challenges.

Professional Profiles

ORCID | Google Scholar

Education

Dr. Vatsanidou holds a Master’s degree in Integrated Agricultural Production Systems and a Doctorate in Environmental Assessment from the Department of Agriculture, Crop Production and Rural Environment at the University of Thessaly. Her doctoral research laid the foundation for her specialized expertise in evaluating environmental impacts within agricultural and food production systems. During this period, she gained a deep understanding of sustainable agricultural practices, system optimization, and the application of environmental models to assess agricultural inputs and outputs. Her multidisciplinary training combines agronomy, environmental sciences, and technological innovation, equipping her with the tools to address complex challenges in modern agriculture.

Experience

Dr. Vatsanidou has developed a distinguished career spanning academia, research institutes, and both public and private organizations. She began as an agronomist in public agencies, gaining valuable experience in agricultural systems and their operational challenges. Expanding into the private sector, she focused on applied agricultural practices and project implementation. At the Benaki Phytopathological Institute, she served as project manager, coordinating multidisciplinary teams and advancing research outcomes into practical strategies. Her academic pathway includes serving as a PhD Researcher at CERTH’s Institute of Bio-Economics and Agrotechnology, specializing in environmental impact assessment. She has also collaborated as an external fellow with the Agricultural University of Athens and the University of Thessaly. Currently, she is an Assistant Professor at NKUA, teaching, mentoring, and leading projects in precision agriculture and sustainability.

Research Focus

Dr. Vatsanidou’s research is centered on the evaluation and development of precision agricultural techniques, environmental footprint analysis, and sustainable production systems. A core component of her work is the application of life cycle assessment (LCA) to evaluate environmental impacts across the agri-food chain, from primary production to processing. Her studies address key challenges in climate-smart agriculture, sustainable resource management, and environmental protection, with an emphasis on balancing productivity with ecological sustainability. She has made significant contributions to precision farming technologies for crop protection, environmental assessment of emission reduction technologies, and the integration of innovative tools such as imaging recognition and digital algorithms in agriculture. Her research supports the global transition towards agriculture 4.0 and 5.0 by incorporating digitalization, automation, and sustainable practices into farming systems.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Freshness Prediction for Apples & Lettuces
Authors: Chrysanthos Maraveas; George Kalitsios; Marianna I. Kotzabasaki; Dimitrios V. Giannopoulos; Kosmas Dimitropoulos; Anna Vatsanidou
Summary: Presents a mobile app that combines imaging recognition with advanced algorithms to predict fruit and vegetable freshness in real time. The tool helps reduce food waste and ensures better quality monitoring along the supply chain.

Title: Life Cycle Assessment of Insect vs. Conventional Feed
Authors: Anna Vatsanidou; Styliani Konstantinidi; Eleftherios Bonos; Ioannis Skoufos
Summary: Compares the environmental impact of conventional and insect-based protein feeds using life cycle assessment (LCA). Findings highlight insect-based proteins as a sustainable alternative for animal production.

Title: Biopolymer Nanopesticides for Degradation
Authors: Chrysanthos Maraveas; Giasemi K. Angeli; Anna Vatsanidou; Marianna I. Kotzabasaki
Summary: Reviews the design of biopolymer-based nanopesticides aimed at improving pesticide degradation. Emphasizes eco-friendly nanotechnology solutions to enhance crop protection while reducing environmental risks.

Title: Cybersecurity in Agriculture 4.0 & 5.0
Authors: Chrysanthos Maraveas; Muttukrishnan Rajarajan; Konstantinos G. Arvanitis; Anna Vatsanidou
Summary: Analyzes cybersecurity challenges in digital agriculture, covering precision farming and smart technologies. Proposes risk mitigation measures to protect agricultural data, devices, and infrastructures.

Title: Emission Reduction in Livestock Systems
Authors: Vasileios Anestis; Anna Vatsanidou; Thomas Bartzanas
Summary: Examines emission reduction strategies in livestock systems. Evaluates their effectiveness, environmental benefits, and potential adoption, supporting sustainable practices in animal production.

Conclusion

Dr. Anna Vatsanidou is an innovative and impactful researcher whose work bridges the fields of agriculture, environmental science, and digital technology. Her commitment to sustainability, leadership in major international projects, and contributions to both academic scholarship and practical applications mark her as an outstanding candidate for recognition. Through her teaching, research, and collaborations, she continues to advance sustainable agricultural development while shaping the next generation of agricultural scientists. Her work exemplifies excellence in addressing the pressing challenges of food security, environmental stewardship, and technological innovation in the agri-food sector.

Safira Andrista| Environmental Studies | Best Researcher Award

Ms. Safira Andrista | Environmental Studies | Best Researcher Award

Reporting and Partnership Officer at Kaleka, Indonesia

Safira Andrista is a sustainability and economic development professional specializing in sustainable development and environmental economics. She holds an MSc in Regional and Environmental Economics from Corvinus University of Budapest and a BASc in Economics from Universitas Gadjah Mada. Currently, she serves as a Reporting and Partnership Officer at Kaleka, managing donor reporting, funding proposals, and feasibility studies for sustainable agriculture initiatives. Previously, she worked as a Research Officer (Economist), Project Expert, Research Assistant, and Teaching Assistant, focusing on macroeconomics, environmental economics, and public policy analysis. Her research contributions include studies on climate adaptation, ASEAN economic integration, and environmental challenges, influencing policies for sustainable resource management and climate resilience strategies.

Professional Profiles📖

Google Scholar

Education 🎓

 Safira Andrista completed her undergraduate studies at Universitas Gadjah Mada, earning a BASc in Economics. During her studies, she developed a strong foundation in macroeconomics, microeconomics, and policy analysis. She then pursued an MSc in Regional and Environmental Economics at Corvinus University of Budapest, where she specialized in environmental policies, sustainability frameworks, and economic development strategies. Her education provided hands-on research experience, exposure to international case studies, and collaborations with global scholars. This academic journey shaped her ability to conduct data-driven analyses, formulate economic policies, and contribute to sustainable development projects.

Work Experience💼

Safira Andrista has extensive experience in economic research and sustainability. As a Reporting and Partnership Officer at Kaleka, she manages donor communications, funding proposals, and feasibility studies for sustainable agriculture initiatives. Previously, she worked as a Research Officer (Economist), analyzing macroeconomic trends and environmental policies. She also held roles as a Project Expert, Research Assistant, and Teaching Assistant, gaining expertise in economic modeling, sustainability assessments, and public policy analysis. Her work has contributed to policy recommendations and sustainable resource management strategies, impacting economic and environmental resilience initiatives across Indonesia.

Awards and Honors 🏆

 Safira Andrista has been recognized for her impactful contributions to economic research and sustainability. She received the “Best Researcher Award” for her work on climate adaptation among small-scale farmers in Indonesia. Her research excellence has been acknowledged through scholarships and grants, supporting her studies in environmental economics. Additionally, she has been invited as a guest speaker at international conferences and workshops on sustainability, economic integration, and climate resilience. Her dedication to evidence-based policymaking has earned her accolades from academic institutions and development organizations.

Skills 💡

 Safira Andrista has a diverse skill set in economic analysis, policy research, and sustainability planning. She is proficient in conducting feasibility studies, donor reporting, and funding proposal development. Her expertise extends to macroeconomic modeling, environmental impact assessments, and sustainability evaluations. She possesses strong analytical skills for interpreting economic trends and translating data into actionable strategies. Additionally, she has experience in stakeholder engagement, project management, and academic research, making her a well-rounded professional in sustainable economic development.

Research Focus 🔬

Safira Andrista’s research primarily focuses on sustainable development and environmental economics. She has led studies on climate adaptation strategies, economic resilience, and the well-being of small-scale farmers. Her research includes economic analyses for spatial planning, feasibility studies on traditional markets, and sustainability assessments of the palm oil sector. Collaborating with local civil society organizations and global researchers, she contributes to policy development for climate resilience and sustainable resource management. Her work provides actionable insights for policymakers, helping shape long-term sustainability frameworks.

Conclusion✅

Safira Andrista is a highly deserving candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Her impressive academic and professional background, combined with her groundbreaking research in sustainable development and environmental economics, demonstrates her potential for further contributions to the field. Her work has not only enhanced academic discourse but has also had a tangible impact on policies and practices related to climate change adaptation and agricultural sustainability. With continued engagement and strategic dissemination of her research, Safira has the potential to make even greater strides in promoting sustainable development globally.

Publications Top Notes📚

Welfare Impact of ASEAN Economic Integration: “ASEAN Way” Versus Theory

Authors: S Andrista, T Widodo

Citations: 4

Year: 2017

Responses to Climate Change: Perceptions and Adaptation Among Small-Scale Farmers in Indonesia

Authors: S Andrista, NP Utami, V Hukom, M Nielsen, R Nielsen

Journal: Journal of Environmental Management 377, 124593

Citations: Not specified

Year: 2025

Territorial and Environmental Challenges: A Global Comparative Account

Authors: J B Kocsis, Z Nemes, GL Porhajas

Institution: Corvinus University of Budapest, Institute of Sustainable Development

Year: 2022

Comparing Planning Systems of China, Indonesia, and Vietnam

Authors: SAPJT Duy, L Nguyen, G Salamin

Journal: AND ENVIRONMENTAL, 9