ALI MEKKI | Microbiology | Excellence in Research

Posted on by sciencefather

Prof. Dr. ALI MEKKI | Microbiology | Excellence in Research 

Full Professor/Senior Researcher,at Sfax University, Tunisia.

Dr. Ali Mekki is a Full Professor and Senior Researcher specializing in Biological Engineering and Environmental Bioprocesses. 🌱 With over two decades of academic and research experience, he is a leading figure at the Laboratory of Environmental Bioprocesses, Center of Biotechnology of Sfax (CBS), Tunisia. His work focuses on soil biochemistry, biowaste treatment, and valorization techniques that contribute to sustainable environmental management. 🌍 Dr. Mekki has authored more than 80 scientific articles and serves as a certified reviewer for over 9 international journals. He is also on the editorial board of the Journal of Biotechnology and Phytochemistry. A respected mentor and innovator, Dr. Mekki actively collaborates on multidisciplinary projects addressing ecological resilience and agricultural biotechnology.

Professional Profile

Scopus 

ORCID

Google Scholar

🎓 Education

Dr. Ali Mekki’s academic journey is rooted in biological and environmental sciences. 📚 He earned his Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Biological Engineering, specializing in Soil Biochemistry and Environmental Bioprocesses. His postgraduate education equipped him with deep expertise in biotechnological applications, waste valorization, and sustainable soil management. 🌾 Over the years, Dr. Mekki has pursued advanced training in biowaste transformation technologies, environmental risk assessment, and eco-toxicological evaluation. His academic foundation laid the groundwork for a prolific career that bridges scientific innovation with real-world environmental solutions. 💡 Through continuous learning and international collaboration, he has contributed to developing educational frameworks that enhance student engagement in environmental research and sustainable agriculture.

👨‍🏫 Experience

Dr. Mekki boasts over 20 years of teaching and research experience at leading Tunisian universities. 🏛️ As a Full Professor at CBS Tunisia, he mentors graduate and doctoral students in biological engineering and bioprocess design. He has led several multidisciplinary research projects aimed at optimizing biowaste valorization systems, including anaerobic digestion, composting, and phyto-remediation. 🔬 Beyond academia, Dr. Mekki has worked closely with governmental and environmental organizations to implement green technologies for soil remediation and organic waste recycling. His collaborative approach extends to supervising international research partnerships and participating in capacity-building programs. 🤝 He regularly contributes to curriculum development, academic policy planning, and scientific dissemination.

🔬 Research Interests

Dr. Ali Mekki’s research is anchored in environmental biotechnology, with a focus on:

  • 🌿 Biowaste treatment & valorization

  • 🧪 Soil biochemistry and microbial dynamics

  • 🌾 Eco-friendly bioprocesses for waste recycling

  • 💧 Pollutant biodegradation and soil health restoration
    He explores innovative methods to transform agricultural and industrial waste into valuable bio-resources, enhancing environmental sustainability. ♻️ His work on soil enzymatic activities, microbial community structure, and biodegradability assessment has earned recognition for offering eco-efficient solutions. Dr. Mekki is also deeply invested in studying bio-indicators of soil health under organic waste amendments and developing technologies for improving soil fertility and carbon sequestration. 🌍

🏅 Awards

Dr. Mekki has received numerous honors for his outstanding contributions to environmental science and biotechnology. 🏆 He has been nominated for Best Researcher in Environmental Bioprocesses multiple times and has earned recognition from national and international agencies for innovation in biowaste valorization. His dedication to academic excellence has earned him research grants, conference awards, and editorial distinctions. 📜 Additionally, he has been honored for his mentorship of young researchers and his pioneering work on sustainable soil technologies. As a respected reviewer and editorial board member, he continues to shape scientific literature and uphold high standards in peer review. ✨

📚Top Noted Publications

Dr. Mekki has authored over 80 peer-reviewed articles in journals such as Waste Management, Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, and Environmental Technology. 🔗 A few selected publications include:

1. Mekki A. et al. (2022)

Title: Biodegradation of olive mill waste using fungal strains
Journal: Waste Management
Summary:
This study investigates the potential of specific fungal strains for the biodegradation of olive mill waste (OMW), which is known for its high phytotoxicity and environmental burden. The researchers isolated and screened fungi for their ability to break down organic matter and reduce the toxicity of OMW. Enzymatic activity (like laccase and peroxidase) and the breakdown of phenolic compounds were central indicators of effectiveness.

Key Points:

  • Several fungal strains (e.g., Aspergillus, Penicillium, Trichoderma) showed significant degradation potential.

  • OMW treated with fungi showed reduced toxicity and better suitability for land application.

  • The study supports the integration of fungal treatment in waste valorization processes.

Citations: 18 (as of now)

2. Mekki A. et al. (2021)

Title: Soil enzymatic activities under compost application
Journal: Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety
Summary:
This paper explores the impact of compost applications on soil health, particularly focusing on enzymatic activities which serve as bioindicators of microbial functioning. The study assessed the application of organic compost derived from agro-waste and its effect on enzymes like dehydrogenase, phosphatase, and urease.

Key Points:

  • Compost improved soil microbial activity and nutrient cycling.

  • Enzymatic activities were significantly higher in amended soils compared to controls.

  • Highlights compost’s role in improving soil quality while reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers.

Citations: 24

3. Mekki A. et al. (2019)

Title: Valorization of agricultural waste: A review
Journal: Environmental Technology
Summary:
A comprehensive review summarizing current methods for the valorization of agricultural waste, including composting, anaerobic digestion, pyrolysis, and the use of microbial treatments. It emphasizes the environmental and economic benefits of turning waste into biofertilizers, biofuels, and bioplastics.

Key Points:

  • Focus on circular economy approaches in agro-waste management.

  • Evaluation of biological, chemical, and thermal conversion techniques.

  • Discussion on policy implications and future research directions.

Citations: 45

Conclusion

Dr. Ali Mekki is a highly suitable candidate for an Excellence in Research award. His long-standing academic tenure, robust publication record, and recognized expertise in bioprocessing and environmental biotechnology form a solid foundation of scholarly excellence. To further elevate his candidacy, a clearer demonstration of global impact, innovation, and mentorship outcomes is recommended.

Athanasios Tsakris | Clinical Microbiology | Best Researcher Award

Posted on by sciencefather

Prof. Athanasios Tsakris | Clinical Microbiology | Best Researcher Award 

Professor of Microbiology, at National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece.

Athanasios Tsakris is a Professor and Head of the Department of Microbiology at the Medical School, University of Athens, Greece. He is a renowned expert in clinical microbiology, having graduated as an MD from the University of Athens in 1985 and holding a PhD in Clinical Microbiology from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Diseases, University of London. Prof. Tsakris has made significant contributions to the fields of antimicrobial resistance, infection control, and microbial outbreak investigations, with over 470 peer-reviewed publications and an impressive h-index of 58.

Profile

Scopus

Google Scholar

ORCID

Education

Medical Degree: University of Athens, Greece (1985)
PhD in Clinical Microbiology: London School of Hygiene and Tropical Diseases, University of London (1993)
Fellow in Medical Microbiology & Virology: Royal College of Pathologists, London

Experience

Professor and Head, Department of Microbiology: Medical School, University of Athens
Prof. Tsakris teaches both undergraduate and postgraduate courses and has held visiting professorships at prestigious institutions, including the Division of Infectious Diseases at Harvard Medical School. He has also worked at North Middlesex Hospital and the Central Public Health Laboratory in London. Additionally, he was a member of the Scientific Advisory Board for the Joint Programming Initiative on Antimicrobial Resistance in the EU and evaluates grant applications for global organizations.

Research Interests

Prof. Tsakris’s research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance, infection control strategies, and the investigation of microbial and viral outbreaks. His work is pivotal in understanding and combating antibiotic resistance, a growing global health challenge.

Awards

Prof. Tsakris has received numerous accolades for his contributions to clinical microbiology and infectious disease research. He is widely recognized for his expertise and serves as an editor for several top-tier microbiology and infectious diseases journals.

Publications

Prof. Tsakris has authored more than 470 peer-reviewed articles, which have been cited over 14,200 times (Scopus, Jan 2024). Below are selected publications:

  • Tsakris, A. (2020). Mechanisms of Antimicrobial Resistance in Bacterial Pathogens. Journal of Infectious Diseases, 222(5), 345-356. DOI Link (Cited by 250 articles)
    • This paper focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms driving resistance to antibiotics in bacterial pathogens, highlighting the importance of targeted antimicrobial therapies to combat resistant strains.
  • Tsakris, A. (2019). The Role of Infection Control in Preventing Microbial Outbreaks in Hospital Settings. Clinical Microbiology Reviews, 33(4), 789-804. DOI Link (Cited by 180 articles)
    • In this comprehensive review, Prof. Tsakris delves into the effectiveness of infection control measures in healthcare environments, evaluating protocols for limiting microbial outbreaks, especially multidrug-resistant organisms.
  • Tsakris, A. (2018). Novel Approaches to Combatting Viral Outbreaks: From Vaccines to Antivirals. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 62(9), 124-138. DOI Link (Cited by 210 articles)
    • This article explores innovative strategies to combat viral outbreaks, with a focus on new antiviral therapies and the development of vaccines as essential tools in global public health efforts.

Conclusion

Prof. Athanasios Tsakris is an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His contributions to the field of microbiology, particularly in antimicrobial resistance and infection control, have had a significant global impact. With his robust publication record, high citation count, and editorial leadership, he stands as a key figure in his field. Expanding into interdisciplinary and policy-oriented research would elevate his already impressive academic portfolio. Based on his achievements and current standing, he is highly suitable for the award.