Mohamed Zarid | Food Technology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Mohamed Zarid | Food Technology | Best Researcher Award

Academic Researcher at Faculty of Science, Ibn Tofail University | Morocco

Dr. Mohamed Zarid is a promising scholar in agro-food sciences, plant genetics, and postharvest biology, with research focusing on genetic improvement, molecular breeding, and multi-omics approaches to enhance fruit quality, aroma, and texture, particularly in melon. His work combines molecular genetics with applied agricultural biotechnology, contributing to sustainable food production and agro-industry innovation. He earned a Ph.D. in Agricultural and Food Engineering from Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena with honors, and his doctoral research was recognized with the Extraordinary Ph.D. Award. His academic journey also includes training at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, complementing his advanced degrees in agro-food quality management. Dr. Zarid has engaged in international collaborations across Spain, France, Switzerland, and Morocco, participating in EU-funded projects and research networks. With publications in reputed journals, conference presentations, and leadership in teaching and mentoring, he demonstrates excellence in advancing agro-food sciences while actively contributing to global research and academic communities.

Professional Profiles

Google Scholar | Scopus Profile | ORCID Profile 

Education

Dr. Zarid has pursued a rigorous and internationally oriented academic path that reflects his commitment to scientific excellence. He obtained his Ph.D. in Agricultural and Food Engineering from Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena, Spain, where his research on melon aroma and quality traits received high recognition. His academic journey also includes advanced training at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne in Switzerland, where he specialized in agricultural and food research technologies, further strengthening his multidisciplinary expertise. Prior to his doctoral studies, he earned a Master’s degree in Agro-Food Industry Quality Management from Université Sultan Moulay Slimane in Morocco, which laid a solid foundation for his later research pursuits. He also holds a Bachelor’s in Quality Control of Agro-Food Products and a Diploma in Agro-Food Biological Engineering, reflecting his early dedication to food sciences. This combination of international exposure and diverse qualifications has provided him with the tools to approach agricultural research from multiple perspectives.

Experience

Over the course of his career, Dr. Zarid has held research and teaching positions in Morocco, Spain, France, and Switzerland, making his profile highly international. He currently serves as a Maître de Conférences and researcher at Université Ibn Tofail, Morocco, where he contributes to the Centre d’Excellence Agroalimentaire. His experience includes postdoctoral research at INRAE, Avignon, France, where he studied fruit genetics and improvement, and research collaborations with top institutions such as CSIC in Spain and EPFL in Switzerland. In addition to research, he has actively engaged in academic teaching, serving as a lecturer and guest faculty member in subjects related to agro-food engineering, plant biology, and sustainability. His contributions extend to EU-funded projects, collaborative scientific networks, and participation in numerous international conferences. These experiences have honed his ability to combine scientific inquiry with practical agricultural applications, positioning him as both a skilled researcher and an influential academic leader.

Research Interests

Dr. Zarid’s research interests lie in advancing sustainable agriculture through the integration of plant genetics, molecular breeding, and biotechnology. He is particularly passionate about understanding the genetic and environmental regulation of fruit quality traits such as texture, aroma, and shelf life, with melon serving as a model species for his studies. His expertise spans transcriptomics, genomics, and metabolomics, which he employs in multi-omics approaches to unravel the complex interactions between genetics and environment. Beyond crop quality improvement, he has explored themes in food safety and postharvest physiology, emphasizing sustainable practices and consumer health. His interests also include the application of artificial intelligence and advanced data analysis techniques to plant breeding and digital genomics. By bridging fundamental research with real-world agricultural challenges, Dr. Zarid’s work not only contributes to scientific knowledge but also supports global food security and the development of innovative agro-food industry practices.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his academic career, Dr. Zarid has received recognition for his outstanding research achievements. His Ph.D. thesis, which explored genetic and aromatic traits in melon, was awarded the prestigious Extraordinary Ph.D. Award at Universidad Politécnica de Cartagena, securing third place in the sciences category. He has been invited as a speaker and presenter at multiple international conferences, where his contributions have been acknowledged by peers in the agro-food and plant sciences communities. His publications in high-impact journals indexed in Scopus, IEEE, and Springer further highlight his scholarly impact. In addition to research excellence, his involvement in EU-funded and collaborative projects has also been recognized as a valuable contribution to the advancement of agricultural sciences. These honors reflect his dedication to advancing scientific innovation, his ability to translate research into practical outcomes, and his growing influence as a thought leader in agro-food biotechnology and sustainable agricultural research.

Research Skills

Dr. Zarid possesses a diverse and advanced set of research skills that make him a versatile and impactful scientist. His expertise includes plant genetics, genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, which he integrates into comprehensive multi-omics analyses to study crop traits. He is skilled in molecular breeding techniques, postharvest biology, and food quality assessment, allowing him to address challenges across the entire food production chain. His experience with analytical methods such as QTL mapping, genome sequencing, and volatile compound profiling provides him with a robust toolkit for plant improvement studies. In addition, he has developed strong competencies in scientific writing, project management, and dissemination of research findings through publications and presentations. His collaborative work has strengthened his cross-cultural communication and leadership skills, essential for international projects. By combining technical proficiency with creativity and problem-solving, Dr. Zarid demonstrates the ability to design innovative research that advances both academic knowledge and applied agricultural practices.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Transcriptomic analysis of a near‐isogenic line of melon with high fruit flesh firmness during ripening
Authors: M. Zarid, V. García‐Carpintero, C. Esteras, J. Esteva, M.C. Bueso, et al.
Year: 2021
Citation: 11

Title: Methodology to remove strong outliers of non-climacteric melon fruit aroma at harvest obtained by HS-SPME GC-MS analysis
Authors: J.P. Fernández-Trujillo, M. Zarid, M.C. Bueso
Year: 2018
Citation: 9

Title: Aroma volatiles during non-climacteric melon ripening and potential association with flesh firmness
Authors: A.A. Escudero, M. Zarid, M.C. Bueso, J.P. Fernández-Trujillo
Year: 2016
Citation: 7

Title: Seasonal effect on selected quality traits of a melon near-isogenic line
Authors: M. Zarid, J.P. Fernández-Trujillo
Year: 2016
Citation: 6

Title: Seasonal effects on flesh volatile concentrations and texture at harvest in a near-isogenic line of melon with introgression in LG X
Authors: M. Zarid, M.C. Bueso, J.P. Fernández-Trujillo
Year: 2020
Citation: 5

Title: Gene expression and volatile production during melon ripening
Authors: M. Zarid, C. Esteras, A.G. Sifres, X. Cañizares, J. Esteva, M.B. Picó, et al.
Year: 2017
Citation: 4

Title: Aroma volatile changes in non-climacteric melons with introgression in linkage group X at three stages of maturity
Authors: I. Canales, J.P. Fernández-Trujillo, M.C. Bueso, M. Zarid
Year: 2016
Citation: 2

Title: Green HACCP: Food Safety and Environment
Authors: M. Zarid
Year: 2019
Citation: 1

Title: The Green HACCP Approach: Advancing Food Safety and Sustainability
Authors: M. Zarid
Year: 2025

Conclusion

Dr. Mohamed Zarid is highly deserving of the Best Researcher Award for his outstanding academic trajectory, impactful publications, and international research collaborations. His work integrates advanced genomics, crop quality improvement, and sustainability in agro-food systems, contributing directly to pressing global challenges in food production and security. With a strong foundation of scientific excellence and international exposure, he is well-positioned to make transformative contributions to agricultural biotechnology and food sciences. His future potential as a leader lies not only in advancing cutting-edge research but also in mentoring the next generation of agro-food scientists, making him an ideal candidate for this recognition.

Volodymyr Nadykto | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Professor at Dmytro Motornyi Tavria State Agrotechnological University, Ukraine

Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto is a distinguished researcher and professor at Dmytro Motornyi Tavria State Agrotechnological University, Ukraine, specializing in the mechanization of agricultural production. With over four decades of academic and research experience, he has significantly contributed to the development of modular tractors, machine-tractor units, and controlled traffic farming. He has held key leadership positions, including Vice-Rector of Science and Head of Department, and is an active member of the Ukrainian Academy of Agrarian Sciences and the Academy of Engineering Sciences of Ukraine. Prof. Nadykto has an extensive publication record, collaborating with international researchers on innovative solutions for improving agricultural machinery efficiency. His research focuses on optimizing traction, reducing soil disturbance, and enhancing mechanized farming practices. While his work has had a profound academic impact, further emphasis on industry applications and mentorship could enhance his contributions. His dedication and expertise make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award.

Professional Profile 

Education

Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto has a strong academic background in agricultural engineering, specializing in the mechanization of agricultural production. He earned his Engineer degree in 1977 from the Dnipropetrovsk Institute of Agriculture. He later pursued a PhD in Engineering from the Moscow Institute of Agricultural Engineers in 1989, focusing on mechanization in agriculture. In 2001, he obtained his Doctor of Science (Dr. Sci.) degree from the Agriculture Institute of Mechanization and Electrification of the Ukrainian Academy of Agrarian Science, further solidifying his expertise in agricultural engineering. Additionally, in 2016, he earned a degree as an Agronomist from Dmytro Motornyi Tavria State Agrotechnological University. His extensive education has provided him with a strong foundation for his research in mechanized farming, controlled traffic farming, and tractor-machine systems. His academic qualifications, combined with decades of research and teaching experience, have made him a leading expert in agricultural mechanization.

Professional Experience

Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto has an extensive professional background in agricultural engineering, spanning over four decades. He has been a professor at Dmytro Motornyi Tavria State Agrotechnological University since 2001, where he also served as Vice-Rector of Science from 2006 to 2020. His leadership roles include Head of the Department of Machines Use in Farming (2004–2006) and Head of the Department of Mechanization of Field Crop Cultivation (2000–2002). Prior to that, he was a senior researcher and later Head of the Laboratory of Machine Use at the South Office of the Agriculture Institute of Mechanization and Electrification. His career began as a senior engineer at the Ukrainian Scientific Research Institute of Mechanization and Electrification of Agriculture. Throughout his career, Prof. Nadykto has contributed significantly to the development of agricultural mechanization, specializing in modular tractors, controlled traffic farming, and machine-tractor systems, making him a key figure in the field.

Research Interest

Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto’s research interests focus on advancing agricultural mechanization, particularly in modular tractors, machine-tractor units, and controlled traffic farming. His work aims to enhance the efficiency, stability, and sustainability of mechanized farming operations by optimizing traction performance, reducing soil compaction, and improving the controllability of agricultural machinery. He has extensively studied the development of combination machine-tractor units, the impact of machine configurations on soil conditions, and innovative approaches to increase the traction efficiency of modular draft devices. His research also explores mathematical modeling and experimental investigations to improve the stability and maneuverability of machine-tractor systems. By integrating engineering principles with practical agricultural applications, Prof. Nadykto contributes to the development of more effective and environmentally friendly mechanized farming practices. His dedication to advancing agricultural engineering ensures that his research remains relevant to both academia and industry, addressing the evolving challenges of modern agriculture.

Award and Honor

Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto has received numerous honors and recognitions for his outstanding contributions to agricultural engineering and mechanization. He is a Corresponding Member of the Ukrainian Academy of Agrarian Sciences (since 2010) and an Active Member of the Academy of Engineering Sciences of Ukraine (since 2008). His election to these prestigious institutions highlights his significant impact on the advancement of mechanized farming and agricultural machinery. Additionally, he has held key academic leadership roles, such as Vice-Rector of Science at Dmytro Motornyi Tavria State Agrotechnological University, further demonstrating his influence in the academic and research community. His extensive research publications and collaborations with international scientists reflect his commitment to innovation in agricultural mechanization. While specific awards are not listed in his curriculum vitae, his professional affiliations and long-standing contributions to the field solidify his reputation as a leading researcher, making him a strong contender for prestigious research awards.

Research Skill

Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto possesses exceptional research skills in agricultural mechanization, with expertise in modular tractors, machine-tractor units, and controlled traffic farming. His ability to develop and apply mathematical models for optimizing tractor performance and soil interaction demonstrates his strong analytical and problem-solving skills. He is proficient in experimental research, conducting field investigations to assess traction efficiency, movement stability, and the impact of mechanization on soil conditions. His extensive publication record highlights his ability to collaborate with international researchers, showcasing his expertise in scientific writing, data analysis, and engineering simulations. Additionally, his experience in leading research teams and supervising scientific projects reflects his leadership and project management skills. Prof. Nadykto integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications, contributing to the advancement of sustainable and efficient mechanized farming. His research skills, combined with his vast academic experience, make him a distinguished expert in the field of agricultural engineering.

Conclusion

Prof. Volodymyr Nadykto is a highly accomplished researcher with a strong publication record, extensive academic experience, and significant contributions to agricultural mechanization. His international collaborations, leadership roles, and research impact make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. Addressing the areas for improvement, particularly in demonstrating broader research impact and industry applications, would further strengthen his candidacy.

Publications Top Noted

  • Nadykto, V. T., & Kryzhachkivskyi, M. L. (2005). Novі mobil’nі energetichnі zasobi Ukrainy. Teoretychni osnovy vykorystannia v zemlerobstvi.
  • Nadykto, V. T. (2003). Osnovy agregatyrovaniya modulekh energetycheskikh sredstv. Melitopol: KP “MMD”.
  • Nadykto, V. T., & Uleksin, V. O. (2008). Kolіina ta mostova systemy zemlerobstva. Melitopol: TOV «Vydavnychyi budynok MMD».
  • Bulgakov, V., Pascuzzi, S., Nadykto, V., & Ivanovs, S. (2018). A mathematical model of the plane-parallel movement of an asymmetric machine-and-tractor aggregate. Agriculture, 8(10), 151.
  • Nadykto, V., Arak, M., & Olt, J. (2015). Theoretical research into the frictional slipping of wheel-type undercarriage taking into account the limitation of their impact on the soil. Agronomy Research, 13(1), 148-157.
  • Bulgakov, V., Adamchuk, V., Nadykto, V., Kistechok, O., & Olt, J. (2017). Theoretical research into the stability of motion of the ploughing tractor-implement unit operating on the ‘push-pull’ principle.
  • Bulgakov, V., Pascuzzi, S., Ivanovs, S., Nadykto, V., & Nowak, J. (2020). Kinematic discrepancy between driving wheels evaluated for a modular traction device. Biosystems Engineering, 196, 88-96.
  • Nadykto, V. T. (2017). Osnovy naukovykh doslidzhen. Kherson: OLDI-PLUS.
  • Bulgakov, V. M., Kravchuk, V. I., & Nadykto, V. T. (2008). Agregatuvannia pluhiv.
  • Adamchuk, V., Bulgakov, V., Nadykto, V., Ihnatiev, Y., & Olt, J. (2016). Theoretical research into the power and energy performance of agricultural tractors. Agronomy Research, 14(5).
  • Kyurchev, V. M., Kyurchev, V. N., Boltianska, N. I., & Boltianska, N. I. (2020). Organizational forms of distance learning and their application in TDATU. TDATU.
  • Bulgakov, V., Adamchuk, V., Nadykto, V., & Kyurchev, V. (2017). Theoretical consideration of the controllability indicator of machine-tractor unit movement. Acta Technologica Agriculturae, 11-18.
  • Bulgakov, V., Adamchuk, V., Arak, M., Nadykto, V., Kyurchev, V., & Olt, J. (2016). Theory of vertical oscillations and dynamic stability of combined tractor-implement unit. Agronomy Research, 689-710.