Simone D. Castellarin is a Professor in the Department of Applied Biology at the University of British Columbia's Faculty of Land and Food Systems, and holds the Canada Research Chair Tier 2 in Viticulture. His research focuses on the molecular and physiological mechanisms governing berry ripening and composition in grapes, blueberries, and raspberries, with emphasis on genomic regulation under environmental stressors like heatwaves and drought. PhD in Plant Biology from the University of Udine (2007) Postdoctoral training at Hochschule Geisenheim University and University of California Davis Research areas include terpene biosynthesis, jasmonate signaling, cuticular wax dynamics, and agronomic strategies for climate change mitigation. Key projects involve remote sensing for vineyard zoning , hormone application effects , and genetic studies of berry quality traits . His work spans collaborations with industry bodies like the BC Wine and Grape Council and academic partners including the Cantu Lab at UC Davis. Recent publications highlight genomic analyses of terpene synthases, water deficit impacts on metabolites, and postharvest quality assessments. Awards include the 2009 Rudolf Hermanns Prize for viticultural research. He supervises numerous PhD and Master's students, and leads the Castellarin Lab at UBC's Wine Research Centre.
Gianfranco Anfora is a Full Professor at the University of Trento, affiliated with both the Department of Civil, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering and the Center Agriculture Food Environment (C3A), where he serves as Deputy Dean. His research focuses on agricultural entomology, biological control, and sustainable pest management. Key expertise areas include integrated pest control, semiochemicals, and viticulture-related challenges. Anfora teaches courses on biopesticides, vine protection, and eco-sustainable management of invasive species. His research emphasizes vibrational communication in pests like Halyomorpha halys and Drosophila suzukii, exploring non-chemical control strategies such as sterile insect techniques and biological control agents. Collaborative projects include classical biological control programs targeting invasive species in vineyards and果园. Anfora’s work often bridges ecology and applied pest management, addressing climate and landscape impacts on agricultural practices. Recent studies highlight innovations in vibrational mating disruption, substrate-borne signaling, and radiation effects on pest behavior. His contributions aim to balance productivity, environmental sustainability, and regulatory compliance within agri-food systems. No scientific awards are explicitly mentioned, but his extensive publication record reflects significant contributions to entomological and agricultural research.
Dr. Ramanjulu Sunkar is a Regents Professor in the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at Oklahoma State University. He leads research on epigenetic and small RNA mechanisms in plant stress responses, focusing on gene regulation under drought, heat, and abiotic stresses. His work integrates genomic tools like ChIP, RNA sequencing, and CRISPR/Cas9 to study stress tolerance in crops. Education: B.Sc. (Sri Venkateswara University), M.Sc. and Ph.D. (Sri Krishnadevaraya University, India), followed by postdoctoral research at the Weizmann Institute (Israel), University of Bonn (Germany), and UC Riverside (USA). He joined Oklahoma State University in 2006, becoming Professor in 2016 and Regents Professor in 2024. Research Interests: Epigenetic modifications (DNA methylation, histone changes), microRNA-guided gene regulation, plant stress memory, and translational control mechanisms. His lab uses model systems like Arabidopsis, rice, and sorghum to study adaptive responses to environmental challenges. Grants: Over 15 grants, including USDA-funded projects on microRNA roles in photosynthesis, epigenetic control of drought tolerance, and systems genetics in rice. NSF-EPSCoR support for bioenergy research. Teaching: Courses include 'Plant Biochemistry,' 'Epigenetics,' and graduate supervision through research credits. Developed new courses on plant stress biology and molecular techniques. Labs/Teams: Leads a research group focused on epigenomics and RNA regulation in plants. Collaborates internationally on projects like the Arabidopsis transcriptome and stress memory mechanisms.
Pankaj Jaiswal is a Professor in the Department of Botany and Plant Pathology at Oregon State University. He leads the Jaiswal Lab, which focuses on plant genomics, bioinformatics, and systems biology. His research integrates computational and experimental approaches to study flowering time, seed development, and plant responses to abiotic stresses. Dr. Jaiswal is affiliated with the Center for Quantitative Life Sciences and collaborates with projects like the Gramene Database and Plant Ontology. Education: Ph.D. (1998), M.Sc. (1992), B.Sc. (1990) from Lucknow University, India. Professional awards include the Emerging Scholar Faculty Award (2013) and recognition from the Rice Genetics Cooperative (2009). Research interests span comparative plant genomics, functional genomics, bioinformatics tools, and database development. His lab has contributed to projects such as the Gramene Database, Plant Reactome, and Planteome, supporting interdisciplinary training in plant biology and computational methods. Key achievements include the chia genome assembly, space biology studies on plant transcriptomes, and collaborations on pathway databases for rice, maize, and other species. His work emphasizes leveraging genomic resources to address agricultural challenges like crop improvement and climate adaptation.
Dr. Wenping Qiu is a Research Professor and Director of the Center for Grapevine Biotechnology at the William H. Darr College of Agriculture, Missouri State University. He leads the Midwest Center of the National Clean Plant Network-Grapevine, focusing on virus-tested grapevine services and disease resistance research. His work addresses significant losses in the grape industry through molecular biology and biotechnology. Education: PhD in Plant Pathology/Biotechnology, North Carolina State University (1997) MS in Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (1988) BS in Biology, Henan Teacher’s University, China (1985) Research Interests: Molecular and genetic mechanisms of disease resistance in grapevines, virus discovery (e.g., Grapevine vein clearing virus), vector transmission, and breeding resistant cultivars like Norton-Cabernet Sauvignon hybrids. His team also evaluates virus suppression strategies and genomic approaches in grapevine. Awards and Honors: Recipient of the MSU Foundation Award in Research (2020) Clif & Gail Smart Endowed Professorship (2012–2019) Named one of the 100 Talents in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China (2010) Advising and Mentorship: Trained numerous students in plant science, biotechnology, and transferrable career skills. Collaborates with industry to advance sustainable grape cultivation. Labs & Affiliations: Directs the Center for Grapevine Biotechnology and collaborates with the National Clean Plant Network. Engages in international research networks like the International Council for the Study of Virus and Virus-like Diseases of Grapevine.
Dr. Naidu Rayapati is a Professor of Virology at Washington State University (WSU), where he serves as Director of the Prosser Irrigated Agriculture Research and Extension Center. He is affiliated with the Department of Plant Pathology within the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences. Dr. Rayapati leads the Grape Virology program at WSU-IAREC in Prosser, focusing on management strategies for virus diseases impacting fruit quality and vine health in Washington's wine grape industry. Dr. Rayapati's research focuses on virus diseases of horticultural, vegetable and food crops, with particular emphasis on virus characterization, diagnostics, plant-virus-vector interactions, and development of integrated crop improvement strategies. His current work centers on virus diseases of grapevines and vegetables, addressing critical challenges for Washington State's agricultural industry. He has established an integrated program of research, extension, and education through the Grape Virology program at WSU-IAREC. Analysis of Dr. Rayapati's recent publications reveals a strong focus on grapevine viruses, particularly Grapevine leafroll-associated viruses and Grapevine red blotch virus. His research spans molecular characterization of plant viruses, epidemiology of viral diseases, development of diagnostic tools, and management strategies for virus diseases in agricultural settings. There is also significant work on emerging viruses in legumes and other vegetable crops, reflecting his broader interest in plant virus diseases across multiple cropping systems. Scientific Awards: CAHNRS Land Grant Mission Award (2020) WSU's Top Industry Engaged Researchers (2017) International IPM Excellence Team Award, The 6th International IPM Symposium (2009) International Service Award, American Phytopathological Society (2007) Dr. Rayapati actively mentors graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, with current lab members including Sridhar Jarugula, Sudarsana Poojari, Tefera Mekuria, Linga Reddy Gutha, and Olufemi Alabi. His research program has received funding from various sources, supporting interdisciplinary collaborations that draw expertise from multiple institutions. Through his extension work, Dr. Rayapati translates scientific knowledge into practical applications for the grape and wine industry stakeholders and regulatory agencies. Dr. Rayapati leads the Grape Virology Program at WSU-IAREC, which employs a 3-D approach: Discovery of knowledge, Development of tools and techniques, and Deployment of knowledge-based strategies. The program works closely with the Washington State Grape and Wine Industry to address virus disease management as a key research priority for achieving the industry's goal of tripling economic value. His team conducts fundamental and applied research on wine grape virus diseases through interdisciplinary collaborations, creating experiential education opportunities for Viticulture and Enology students.
Prof. Dr. Hans-Peter Piepho is a faculty member at the University of Hohenheim , serving as Director of Biostatistics (340c) within the Institute of Crop Science . His research focuses on advanced statistical methods for plant sciences, including genomic prediction, spatial modeling of field trials, and network meta-analysis. Key research areas: Genotype-environment interaction, mixed model applications, and experimental design in agriculture. Collaborations span plant breeding, cultivar testing, and environmental stress analysis. His group emphasizes mixed model procedures as the backbone of methodological innovation. Recent publications highlight climate change adaptation, nitrogen optimization, and agroforestry yield dynamics. Contact: piepho@uni-hohenheim.de | Fruwirthstr. 23, Institute Building, 211, Stuttgart, Germany
Dr. Yiannis Ampatzidis is an Associate Professor and Precision Agriculture Engineer at the University of Florida's Southwest Florida Research and Education Center (SWFREC). His work focuses on mechanization, automation, and AI-driven technologies for specialty crop production, including UAV applications, sensor systems, and precision irrigation. He leads the Precision Agriculture Engineering program, integrating automation, robotics, and machine vision to enhance crop management and sustainability. Education & Experience: Began as an Assistant Professor at SWFREC in 2017, promoted to Associate Professor. Holds expertise in agricultural engineering, automation, and remote sensing. Research Interests: Includes UAV-based crop monitoring, AI/machine learning for disease detection, smart machinery, and precision nutrient management. His work emphasizes practical applications like autonomous spraying systems and yield prediction models. Publications: Over 50 peer-reviewed papers on UAV technologies, AI in agriculture, and precision farming. Notable contributions include frameworks for citrus disease detection, UAV mission planning, and regulatory guidelines for spraying drones. Awards & Recognition: While no specific awards are listed, his extensive publications and leadership roles highlight his contributions to agricultural innovation. Labs & Teams: Leads the UF/IFAS UAS Research Group and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams on projects like AgriSenAI and smart sprayer systems. Active in developing tools for orchard management and crop yield optimization.
Julie Chong is a Full Professor at the University of Haute-Alsace (UHA) in Colmar, France, affiliated with the Faculty of Marketing and Agrosciences. She directs the Laboratory of Vine, Biotechnologies and Environment (LVBE) and holds key administrative roles including leadership of the Master 1 'Valorization and Transformation of Agricultural Products' program and the Agronomy pole at UHA. Her academic qualifications include a Habilitation to Supervise Research (2012) from UHA on induced plant defenses in grapevine resistance to cryptogamic diseases, and a PhD in Cellular and Molecular Biology (2001) from the CNRS Institute of Molecular Plant Biology in Strasbourg, where her doctoral research focused on salicylic acid biosynthesis and pathogen-induced glucosyltransferases. Professor Chong's research program investigates molecular mechanisms of grapevine defense against trunk diseases, particularly Botryosphaeria dieback. Her laboratory characterizes defense signaling pathways (notably VvNPR1), studies the role of sugar transporters (SWEET family) in pathogen interactions, and explores resistance sources in wild grapevine species ( Vitis vinifera subsp. sylvestris ). She employs advanced techniques in molecular biology, metabolomics, and pathogen characterization to dissect host-pathogen dynamics and identify sustainable disease control strategies, with emphasis on fungal virulence factors and plant immune responses. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications (2016-2025) reveals consistent focus on effector-triggered immunity, metabolic reprogramming during infection, and biotechnological enhancement of grapevine resilience. Key themes include characterization of fungal secreted proteins, symbiotic interactions with mycorrhizal fungi, and engineering of disease resistance through transporter overexpression, demonstrating translational applications for viticulture. Her scientific contributions have been recognized with: Prime d'Excellence Scientifique (2014) from University of Haute-Alsace Innovative Project Grants from University of Haute-Alsace Professor Chong actively supervises Master's students in the 'Sciences and Technologies of Agriculture, Food and Environment' program, guiding internships and R&D projects. She serves on doctoral committees (EDSC222) and contributes to academic governance as an elected faculty council member. Her research is supported by institutional grants for innovative projects and collaborative initiatives with the regional wine industry. As Director of LVBE, she leads a multidisciplinary team investigating viticultural challenges, maintaining strong connections with the University of Strasbourg doctoral school and Alsace winegrowers to address trunk disease epidemics through integrated molecular and ecological approaches.
Giulia De Lorenzo is a Full Professor of Plant Physiology at Sapienza University of Rome since 2000, with prior roles as Associate Professor at Sapienza University of Rome (1994-1999) and University of Bari (1991-1994). Her research focuses on plant immunity, molecular recognition, and cell wall dynamics, particularly in plant-pathogen interactions involving damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) and their role in signal transduction. Education: Laurea in Biology (1980, Sapienza University of Rome, cum laude), PhD in Evolutionary Biology (1987, Sapienza University of Rome) Her work explores the structural and functional basis of plant defense mechanisms, including the inhibition of cell wall-degrading enzymes and engineering plant resistance through chimeric receptors. Articles highlight her contributions to understanding DAMPs, PGIP proteins, and their applications in crop protection and bioconversion. Notable scientific awards include the 2011 Sapienza University of Rome Award for Excellence in Research , 1997 Giovanni Armenise-Harvard Foundation Award , and the 1983 Fondazione V.V. Landi Award from the Accademia dei Lincei. She has served on editorial boards and organized international conferences in plant science.
Massimo Delledonne is a Full Professor in the Department of Biotechnology at the University of Verona. His research focuses on clinical genomics, functional genomics, structural genomics, and metagenomics. He teaches modules such as Genetics and Human Genomics across undergraduate and graduate programs, including Molecular and Medical Biotechnology and Medical Bioinformatics. Affiliations: Department of Biotechnology, University of Verona Committees: Faculty Board of PhD in Biotechnology, Biotechnology Teaching Committee Spin-offs: EDIVITE s.r.l., Microbion S.r.l., Enerzyme s.r.l. (among others) His research interests include genome assembly, single nucleotide variant analysis, and applications of next-generation sequencing technologies. Projects span plant and human genomics, with a focus on crop improvement, disease diagnostics, and microbial interactions. Recent work includes studies on lupin diversity, common bean evolution, and grapevine genetics. Key projects include IBEARAD (Bioinformatics for Agricultural Resilience) and SYMPHONY (Phaseolus vulgaris genome analysis). He leads interdisciplinary efforts in genomic medicine, plant genomics, and environmental genomics.
Prof. Dr. Karsten Niehaus serves as Head of the Proteome and Metabolome Research Group at the Center for Biotechnology (CeBiTec) and Faculty of Biology, University of Bielefeld. His research focuses on proteomics and metabolomics applications in plant-microbe interactions, bacterial stress responses, and disease model systems. His laboratory employs advanced mass spectrometry imaging and cell phenotyping technologies to investigate molecular responses in crops like sugar beet and grapevines under abiotic stress conditions, as well as in cancer models where differentiation therapy impacts tumor malignancy. The group also explores microbial biotechnology through Xanthomonas campestris studies on xanthan production and stress adaptation. Selected publications highlight innovations in 3D microfluidics for biomarker detection and bioinformatics platforms like MetHoS for metabolomics data analysis. His work appears in journals covering Frontiers in Plant Science , Scientific Reports , and Journal of Experimental Botany . Contact: kniehaus@cebitec.uni-bielefeld.de | Office: UHG W7-117
Professor Penelope Bebeli holds the position of Professor of Plant Breeding and Biometry at the Agricultural University of Athens (AUA), affiliated with the Faculty of Crop Science's Department of Plant Breeding and Biometry. She specializes in crop genetic resources conservation, molecular diagnostics for cultivar identification, and drought tolerance mechanisms in crops like durum wheat, tomato, and Vicia faba. Her work emphasizes landrace preservation and low-input farming practices. Prof. Bebeli's research focuses on evaluating genetic diversity through morphological and molecular markers, with notable contributions to understanding crop wild relatives' potential for climate resilience. She has coordinated national and EU-funded projects, published extensively, and received the Academy of Athens Award (2003) and Fulbright Scholarship. Active in academic leadership, she served as Greek Scientific Society of Plant Breeding President (2008-2010). She organizes national workshops promoting landrace cultivation and has delivered talks across Greece. Her team investigates orphan crops like Lathyrus spp., combining agronomic research with socio-economic adoption strategies.
Michelle M. Moyer is a Professor and Viticulture Extension Specialist at Washington State University (WSU), affiliated with the Department of Viticulture and Enology, and holds affiliate appointments in the Department of Horticulture and Department of Plant Pathology at WSU, as well as an adjunct position at Oregon State University’s Department of Botany and Plant Pathology. She is based at the WSU Irrigated Agriculture Research and Extension Center (IAREC) in Prosser, WA. Ph.D. in Plant Pathology – Cornell University (2011) B.Sc. in Genetics and Plant Pathology – University of Wisconsin-Madison (2005) Dr. Moyer’s work integrates 70% Extension and 30% applied research, focusing on viticulture and grape disease management. Her research interests include powdery mildew control, fungicide resistance, integrated pest management (IPM), sprayer technology, nematode management, cold hardiness, cover crops, and sustainable vineyard systems . She emphasizes developing science-based resources and proactive engagement with growers, consultants, and industry stakeholders. Her recent publications reflect a strong trend in fungicide stewardship, alternative disease management technologies (e.g., UV-C), rapid pathogen monitoring, and extension education strategies . Much of her work centers on practical solutions for Pacific Northwest vineyards, particularly in Eastern Washington. Notable scientific awards include: American Phytopathological Society: Excellence in Extension Award (2024) WSU CAHNRS Team Interdisciplinary Award (2024) TOAST WA! Emerging Leaders Award (2023) WSU CAHNRS Faculty Excellence in Extension Award (2023) American Society for Enology and Viticulture Best Paper – Viticulture (2022) American Society for Enology and Viticulture Extension Distinction Award (2020) Dr. Moyer has advised multiple graduate students and leads a research team focused on applied viticulture challenges. She is the Project Director for the USDA-NIFA-SCRI funded "FRAME" network on pathogen monitoring. She also contributes significantly to extension through publications, newsletters, workshops, and leadership roles, including serving as President (2023–2024) and Interim President (2024–2025) of the American Society for Enology and Viticulture. She is actively involved in national and state-level organizations related to viticulture, extension, and plant pathology. Her lab includes research technicians, undergraduate interns, and former personnel who have gone on to impactful careers in viticulture and extension. She has led or co-led numerous extension publications, field guides, and educational programs, including the Viticulture Certificate Program at WSU.
Professor Ian Dodd is a Professor of Sustainable Agriculture at Lancaster University's Lancaster Environment Centre, specializing in plant responses to drought stress and irrigation management. He serves as Director of Study for the Food Security (Distance Learning) MSc program and has published over 100 refereed journal papers focusing on improving crop water use efficiency. Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University Professor of Sustainable Agriculture Director of Study for Food Security MSc Handling editor for Journal of Experimental Botany and Plant and Soil His research investigates fundamental mechanisms by which plant root systems communicate drought effects to shoots, aiming to improve 'crop per drop' in changing climates. He studies irrigation techniques including 'partial rootzone drying' and 'alternate wetting and drying,' soil amendments, and root physiology. His work has practical applications in the UK and internationally through projects funded by the Global Challenges Research Fund and European Union. Analysis of his recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a strong focus on plant hormone signaling under drought conditions, particularly abscisic acid (ABA) transport and interactions with other hormones. His research spans multiple crops including soybean, tomato, potato, and grapevines, with emphasis on root-shoot communication, irrigation management, and practical solutions for water conservation in agriculture. Professor Dodd supervises 6 postgraduate research students working on topics including root physiology, rootzone CO 2 enrichment, and soil amendments. His laboratory regularly receives international visitors from countries including Spain, Italy, Turkey, and China. He has secured significant research funding from diverse sources including the Global Challenges Research Fund (RECIRCULATE), European Union (SHUI, DROPS, ROOTOPOWER, SIRRIMED, WATBIO), Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board, Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, British Council Newton Fund, and Royal Society. His laboratory investigates root physiology and phenotyping, with current projects examining rootzone CO 2 enrichment and various soil amendments including alternative liming agents, plant growth promoting rhizobacteria, and surfactants. He collaborates extensively with international researchers on agricultural water management projects.
