Javier Rodríguez | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assist. Prof. Dr. Javier Rodríguez | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Teaching and research personnel at University of Jaén, Spain 

Javier Rodríguez López is a dedicated researcher in food microbiology, with a strong focus on antimicrobial resistance and food safety. He has contributed extensively to understanding microbial contamination in minimally processed plant-based foods and the application of non-thermal preservation techniques such as high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) and bacteriocins. His research has led to significant advancements in improving the microbiological quality of food products, reducing antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, and enhancing food preservation methods. With a strong international background, he has collaborated with leading researchers in Spain, the Netherlands, and Italy, expanding his expertise in bioinformatics and RNA sequencing. In addition to his research, he has been actively involved in academic teaching, mentoring students, and contributing to innovative educational projects. His work has been recognized through several scientific publications, conference presentations, and research collaborations, making him a promising scientist in the field of food microbiology and antimicrobial resistance.

Professional Profile

Education

Javier Rodríguez López holds a PhD in Food Microbiology from the University of Jaén, which he completed in 2022 with an outstanding cum laude distinction and an international mention. His doctoral research focused on the impact of food processing methods on antimicrobial resistance in vegetables, leading to multiple scientific publications. Prior to his PhD, he obtained a Master’s degree in Olive Groves and Olive Oil from the University of Jaén in 2017, where he gained specialized knowledge in food processing and quality control. His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Jaén in 2016, laying the foundation for his expertise in microbiology and molecular biology. Throughout his education, he has undertaken specialized courses in bioinformatics, genome sequencing, and statistical analysis, further strengthening his ability to conduct advanced research in microbial food safety and antimicrobial resistance.

Professional Experience

Javier Rodríguez López has accumulated extensive research and teaching experience in microbiology. He began his career as a research technical support staff member at the University of Granada in 2017 before embarking on his PhD at the University of Jaén. During his doctoral studies, he collaborated on multiple research projects, leading to his first major publications. Following his PhD, he secured a postdoctoral contract at the University of Jaén, focusing on microbial diversity and food safety. In 2023, he was awarded a prestigious Margarita Salas postdoctoral contract, allowing him to conduct research at the University of Groningen in the Netherlands, where he specialized in RNA sequencing and bioinformatics. He later returned to the University of Jaén, continuing his research and taking on a teaching role as a temporary substitute lecturer. His professional journey highlights his commitment to scientific discovery, international collaboration, and academic mentorship.

Research Interests

Javier Rodríguez López’s research interests lie at the intersection of food microbiology, antimicrobial resistance, and bioinformatics. He is particularly focused on studying microbial contamination in food products, investigating the effects of food processing technologies on bacterial diversity, and exploring non-thermal preservation techniques such as high hydrostatic pressure and bacteriocins. His work aims to enhance food safety while preserving the nutritional and sensory properties of food. Additionally, he has a keen interest in genomic and metagenomic studies, using high-throughput sequencing and bioinformatics tools to analyze bacterial communities and their resistance mechanisms. His research also extends to studying the impact of packaging materials on microbial contamination and antibiotic resistance. By integrating microbiology, bioinformatics, and food technology, his goal is to develop innovative solutions for reducing foodborne pathogens and antibiotic-resistant bacteria, ultimately improving food safety and public health.

Awards and Honors

Javier Rodríguez López has received recognition for his outstanding contributions to microbiological research. His PhD thesis was awarded an outstanding cum laude distinction, along with an international mention for his research stay at the University of Naples Federico II. He secured a competitive Margarita Salas postdoctoral fellowship, enabling him to conduct research at the University of Groningen, a leading institution in molecular genetics. His work has been published in high-impact scientific journals, including Q1-ranked publications, demonstrating the significance of his research in the field of food microbiology. Additionally, he has presented his findings at numerous national and international conferences, earning recognition for his contributions to antimicrobial resistance research. His role in multiple research projects and collaborations has further established him as a promising scientist in food microbiology. Through his dedication and achievements, he continues to make a meaningful impact on food safety and microbial research.

Conclusion

Javier Rodríguez López is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly in the early-career category. His research in food microbiology, antimicrobial resistance, and high-pressure food preservation is impactful. However, to further solidify his position, he could focus on leading independent projects, increasing his citation impact, and engaging in more translational research with industry applications.

Publications Top Noted

  • Author(s): Rodríguez-López, J., Grande Burgos, M. J., De Filippis, F., Gálvez, A. M., & Lucas, R.

  • Year: 2023

  • Title: Determination of the effect of the bacteriocin enterocin AS-48 on the microbial loads and bacterial diversity of blueberries

  • Journal: Heliyon

  • Volume & Issue: 9(5)

  • Article ID: e15921

  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15921

  • Publication Type: Open-access, Peer-reviewed Journal Article

 

Rashid Gholami | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Rashid Gholami | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor at Razi University, Iran

Dr. Rashid Gholami is an Assistant Professor at Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran, specializing in agricultural machinery mechanics and post-harvest technology. With a strong research background in food preservation, packaging, and engineering properties of agricultural products, he has contributed significantly to the advancement of innovative storage solutions. His work integrates artificial intelligence, nano-packaging, and modified atmosphere technologies to enhance food shelf life and quality. As a researcher with international experience, including a visiting position at the University of Milan, Italy, he has collaborated with leading experts to develop novel food storage methodologies. Dr. Gholami is committed to bridging the gap between engineering and food science by improving storage systems that minimize post-harvest losses. His extensive academic contributions, combined with numerous publications, make him a recognized expert in his field. His research aims to address global food security challenges through advanced technological interventions.

Professional Profile

Education

Dr. Rashid Gholami obtained his Ph.D. in Mechanics of Agricultural Machinery with a focus on post-harvest technology from Bu Ali Sina University, Iran, in 2019. His doctoral research concentrated on constructing nano-packaging with modified atmosphere and nano-coating to enhance the shelf life of button mushrooms. During his Ph.D., he was a visiting scholar at the University of Milan, Italy, where he worked under the supervision of Dr. Stefano Farris. He completed his M.Sc. in Mechanics of Agricultural Machinery at Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran, in 2012, focusing on analyzing the effects of exhaust gases and oil temperature in various tractors using artificial intelligence methods. He earned his B.Sc. in the same field from Razi University in 2010, where he designed and evaluated hybrid vehicle suspensions. His strong academic foundation has enabled him to conduct impactful research in agricultural engineering.

Professional Experience

Dr. Gholami currently serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Biosystem Engineering at Razi University, where he conducts research and teaches courses related to agricultural machinery mechanics and post-harvest engineering. His expertise spans across food packaging, rheology, and the application of AI in agricultural research. As a faculty member, he mentors students and supervises research projects related to food storage and preservation. He has actively participated in numerous research collaborations, both nationally and internationally, contributing to the development of advanced post-harvest technologies. His professional engagements also include membership in the Agricultural and Natural Resources Engineering Organization of Iran. Beyond academia, he has been involved in research projects focused on reducing post-harvest losses and improving agricultural product quality. His contributions extend to reviewing scientific articles and participating in various conferences worldwide.

Research Interests

Dr. Gholami’s research focuses on post-harvest engineering, food storage, and packaging technologies to enhance the shelf life and quality of agricultural products. His work integrates advanced methodologies such as nano-packaging, modified atmosphere packaging, and edible coatings to reduce food spoilage. He is also deeply involved in applying artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques for non-destructive testing of food products. His studies on the rheological and mechanical properties of foodstuffs contribute to developing innovative storage and transportation solutions. Additionally, he explores the effects of packaging conditions on various agricultural products, aiming to optimize preservation methods. His interdisciplinary approach combines engineering principles with food science, ensuring practical applications that benefit both industry and consumers. Through his research, he aims to develop sustainable technologies that address food security challenges and enhance agricultural efficiency.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Gholami has received several prestigious awards in recognition of his academic excellence and innovative research contributions. He was honored as the nation’s top student by the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology of Iran in 2013. His research achievements earned him the title of Top Researcher at Razi University the same year. He graduated with distinction in both his M.Sc. and B.Sc. programs, demonstrating outstanding academic performance. His contributions to technological innovation were acknowledged by the Science and Technology Park of Kermanshah, where he was recognized as a top innovator. Additionally, he was consistently ranked among the top students throughout his high school years. His dedication to advancing agricultural engineering and food preservation has established him as a leading researcher in his field. Through his work, he continues to contribute to scientific advancements and the development of sustainable food storage solutions.

Conclusion

Dr. Rashid Gholami is a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award, given his research productivity, innovation, and academic contributions. His interdisciplinary approach in food packaging and agricultural mechanics is commendable. To further strengthen his candidacy, demonstrating a higher global impact, securing more research funding, and engaging in applied industrial collaborations would be beneficial.

Publications Top Noted

Title: Physicochemical and aromatic properties of iron-enriched tomato paste during storage
Authors: Nahid Aghili Nategh, Rashid Gholami, Vajiheh Dayyani, Paolo Gay, Alessandro Biglia
Journal: Food Research International
Year: 2025
Citations: 0 (as of the current data)