Hakan Fidan is an Associate Professor in the Department of Plant Protection at Akdeniz University's Faculty of Agriculture in Antalya, Turkey. With over two decades of experience in plant virology and molecular plant pathology, Dr. Fidan leads research focused on viral diseases affecting vegetable crops, particularly tomatoes, peppers, cucurbits, and cereals. He serves as Director of the Seed and Agricultural Biotechnology Research and Application Center at Akdeniz University and has previously directed the Serik Gulsun-Suleyman Sural Vocational School. Dr. Fidan's academic journey includes: Doctorate (2004-2010): Cukurova University, Faculty of Agriculture, Plant Protection Department Postgraduate (2000-2004): Cukurova University, Faculty of Agriculture, Phytopathology/Virology Undergraduate (1992-1996): Cukurova University, Faculty of Agriculture, Plant Protection Department Dr. Fidan's research spans several interconnected areas in plant pathology and virology. His primary focus is on plant viruses affecting economically important crops in the Mediterranean region, with particular emphasis on molecular characterization of viral pathogens, development of resistance mechanisms, and implementation of sustainable disease management strategies. His work integrates molecular biology techniques with traditional plant pathology approaches to address real-world agricultural challenges. His specific research interests include: Plant Virology and Molecular Plant Pathology Development of molecular markers for disease resistance Complete genome molecular biology of plant viruses Plant resistance mechanisms against viral pathogens CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing for developing virus-resistant crops Host-pathogen interactions in vegetable crops Analysis of Dr. Fidan's recent publications reveals a strong focus on emerging viral threats to Turkish agriculture, particularly tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV), tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV), and zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV). His research demonstrates a strategic progression from basic viral characterization to developing practical solutions through molecular diagnostics, resistance breeding, and genome editing approaches. A notable trend is the increasing application of CRISPR/Cas9 technology in his recent work, reflecting a shift toward genetic solutions for viral disease management. Dr. Fidan has supervised 10 graduate theses across master's and doctoral levels, focusing on viral diseases of economically important crops. His students' research has addressed critical issues including ToBRFV management, TSWV resistance breaking, ZYMV resistance in cucurbits, and molecular characterization of emerging viral pathogens. His research program is supported by multiple projects (14 listed in the metrics), indicating successful grant acquisition for molecular virology research and crop protection initiatives. As Director of the Seed and Agricultural Biotechnology Research and Application Center at Akdeniz University, Dr. Fidan leads a multidisciplinary team focused on agricultural biotechnology and seed science. His research group specializes in plant virology, with expertise spanning molecular diagnostics, host-pathogen interactions, and genetic approaches to disease management. The team maintains strong connections with national and international research institutions, as evidenced by collaborative publications, and works closely with agricultural extension services to translate research findings into practical solutions for Turkish farmers.