Francisco A Macias | Allelopathy | Excellence in Research Award

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Prof. Francisco A Macias | Allelopathy | Excellence in Research Award

Full Professor of Organic Chemistry at University of Cadiz, Spain.

Prof. Dr. Francisco A. Macías 🌿 is a distinguished organic chemist specializing in allelopathy, the study of plant-chemical interactions. Born in 1956 in La Línea de la Concepción, Spain 🇪🇸, he has dedicated over four decades to researching natural bioactive compounds. As a professor at the University of Cádiz 🏛️, he has contributed significantly to organic chemistry, focusing on plant-derived allelochemicals for agriculture and medicine. His groundbreaking work spans biosynthesis, QSAR, and nanoencapsulations, earning global recognition, including Stanford’s “World’s Top 2% Scientists” 🌍. His research continues to shape sustainable agrochemical and pharmaceutical innovations.

Professional Profile:

Suitability for Excellence in Research Award

Prof. Dr. Francisco A. Macías is highly suitable for the Excellence in Research Award due to his outstanding contributions to organic chemistry, particularly in the field of allelopathy and plant-chemical interactions. His research has significantly influenced sustainable agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and ecological chemistry, making him a global leader in natural bioactive compound discovery and application.

Education & Experience 📚🧪

📌 Education:

  • 🎓 Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry – University of Cádiz, Spain (1984)
  • 🎓 M.Sc. in Organic Chemistry – University of Seville, Spain (1979)
  • 🎓 B.Sc. in Chemistry – University of Seville, Spain (1978)

📌 Professional Experience:

  • 👨‍🏫 Professor of Organic Chemistry – University of Cádiz (2000–Present)
  • 🏛️ Director of the Institute of Biomolecules (INBIO) (2014–2021)
  • 🔬 Vice-Rector for Research & Innovation – University of Cádiz (2007–2011)
  • 🎓 Dean of the School of Science – University of Cádiz (2002–2007)
  • 🏅 Visiting Associate Professor – LSU, USA 🇺🇸 (1987, 89-91-93-95-97)

Professional Development & Contributions 🔬🌿

Prof. Macías has significantly advanced allelopathy, uncovering the chemical interactions between plants and their environments. His pioneering research has led to the isolation, synthesis, and bioactivity testing of over 3,500 natural compounds 🧪. His contributions extend to nanotechnology, encapsulating allelochemicals for sustainable agriculture 🌾 and medicine 💊. His expertise in biosynthesis and QSAR has led to the development of natural herbicides 🌱, insecticides 🐛, and potential drug leads for diseases like cancer and COVID-19 🦠. As an educator and leader, he has shaped the next generation of scientists, fostering global collaborations in organic chemistry and ecological sustainability.

Research Focus 🔬🌍

Prof. Macías’ research explores plant chemistry to develop sustainable solutions in agriculture 🌿 and medicine 💊. His studies focus on allelopathic interactions, biosynthesis, and the synthesis of bioactive natural compounds. He specializes in sesquiterpene lactones, benzoxazinoids, and spiroditerpenoids, investigating their effects on weeds 🌱, human cancer cells 🦠, and SARS-CoV-2 🦠. His work includes innovative nanoencapsulation techniques for controlled release of bioactive compounds, optimizing their use in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. With a mission to harness nature’s chemical strategies, his research bridges traditional organic chemistry with modern sustainable applications 🌱⚗️.

Awards & Honors 🏆🎖️

  • 🌍 World’s Top 2% Scientists – Stanford University (2021–2024)
  • 🏅 Gold Medal for Excellence in Research – The European 2001 Forum (2015)
  • 🏆 The Molisch Award – International Allelopathy Society (2011)
  • 🎖️ Gaditanian of the Year – Cadiz Athenaeum (2000)
  • 🥈 Silver Plate of the Provincial Council of Cádiz (2000)
  • 🏵️ Rhone-Poulenc Rorer Award – Phytochemical Society of Europe (1999)
  • 🎓 Agro-Environmental Sciences Award – Japan’s NIAES (1999)

Publication Top Notes

📄 Sesquiterpene lactones enriched-fractions obtained from Cynara cardunculus extract diaultrafiltration – 1️⃣ citation – 📅 2024

🌱 Ginger Phytotoxicity: Potential Efficacy of Extracts, Metabolites and Derivatives for Weed Control – 📅 2024

🌿 Phytotoxic Activity of Sesquiterpene Lactones-Enriched Fractions from Cynara cardunculus L. Leaves on Pre-Emergent and Post-Emergent Weed Species and Putative Mode of Action – 📅 2024

🧪 Dereplication of Bioactive Agave Saponin Fractions: The Hidden Saponins – 2️⃣ citations – 📅 2024

🌾 Bioprospection of Phytotoxic Plant-Derived Eudesmanolides and Guaianolides for the Control of Amaranthus viridis, Echinochloa crus-galli, and Lolium perenne Weeds – 6️⃣ citations – 📅 2024

🧬 Effects of Sesquiterpene Lactones on Primary Cilia Formation (Ciliogenesis) – 2️⃣ citations – 📅 2023

🌾 Allelopathic studies with furanocoumarins isolated from Ducrosia anethifolia. In vitro and in silico investigations to protect legumes, rice and grain crops – 3️⃣ citations – 📅 2023

Asmaa Boullayali | Plant Biology | Excellence in Research Award

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Dr Asmaa Boullayali | Plant Biology | Excellence in Research Award

Dr Asmaa Boullayali , Faculty of Sciences-Tetouan , Morocco

Asmaa Boullayali is a researcher with a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from the Faculty of Sciences at Abdelmalek Essaâdi University, Morocco. She specializes in plant biology and ecology, focusing on aerobiology and the ecological aspects of pollen. Her dedication to advancing knowledge in these areas is reflected in her numerous publications and active participation in academic conferences. Boullayali has demonstrated a strong commitment to education through her teaching roles at her alma mater, where she has contributed to various modules, including microbiology and plant physiology.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Exceptional Academic Background: Asmaa Boullayali holds a Doctorate in Biological Sciences with a focus on plant biology and ecology, demonstrating a high level of expertise in her field. Her research has been recognized with high distinction, which is a strong indicator of her academic excellence.
  2. Significant Contributions to Science: Her published works cover a range of impactful topics, including aerobiology, olive pollen forecasting, and plant phenology. High-impact journals like Science of Total Environment and International Journal of Biometeorology feature her work, showcasing her contributions to the field.
  3. Diverse Research Experience: Boullayali’s research includes a variety of studies, such as the dynamics of airborne pollen, chilling and heat requirements for woody plants, and pollen forecasting models. This breadth of research is valuable for demonstrating versatility and depth of expertise.
  4. Teaching and Mentoring Experience: She has actively participated in teaching at the university level, covering multiple subjects within biological sciences. This involvement highlights her commitment to education and mentoring the next generation of scientists.
  5. International Exposure: Her experience includes a significant international component with a research stage in Spain under ERASMUS+, which enriches her perspective and approach to research.
  6. Conference Participation: Boullayali has presented her research at international conferences, indicating her active engagement with the global scientific community.

Areas for Improvement

  1. Broader Impact: While her research is robust, a focus on demonstrating the broader societal impact of her work could strengthen her candidacy. Providing examples of how her research has influenced policy or practical applications could be beneficial.
  2. Additional Awards and Recognition: If available, adding details of any awards, recognitions, or honors received outside of academic circles could enhance her profile.
  3. Leadership Roles: Emphasizing any leadership roles in research projects, collaborations, or academic committees could further highlight her contributions to the field beyond her direct research.
  4. Future Research Goals: Articulating clear future research goals or ongoing projects with potential impact would provide a forward-looking aspect to her application.

    Education

    Boullayali earned her Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from the Faculty of Sciences, Tétouan Abdelmalek Essaâdi University in 2023. Her research, awarded a “very honorable” mention, focused on pollen biology and forecasting models. She completed a Master’s in Ecology and Biodiversity Management with distinction at the Faculty of Sciences, Tétouan, in 2017, and a Bachelor’s in Environmental and Biodiversity Sciences from the Faculty of Sciences, Rabat, in 2015. Her educational journey began with a Baccalaureate in Life and Earth Sciences.

    Experience

    Boullayali’s professional experience includes teaching roles at the Faculty of Sciences, Tétouan, where she has contributed to modules on microbiology, plant physiology, and applied statistics. She has also gained international experience through an ERASMUS+ internship at the University of Córdoba, Spain, and has actively participated in scientific communication, including presenting at international conferences. Her role as a reviewer for the journal Theoretical and Applied Climatology highlights her expertise and contribution to the scientific community.

    Research Focus

    Boullayali’s research focuses on aerobiology, particularly the study of airborne pollen and its ecological implications. Her work includes investigating pollen trends, forecasting models for pollen seasons, and understanding the climatic needs of woody plants. Her studies aim to enhance knowledge of pollen dynamics and their impact on biodiversity, agriculture, and environmental management, particularly in Mediterranean climates.

    Publications top notes

    • Boullayali, A., Elhassani, L., Janati, A., Achmakh, L., Bouziane, H. (2021). Airborne pollen trends in Tétouan (NW of Morocco). Aerobiologia, 37, 479-505. 📈🌿
    • Boullayali, A., Galan, C., Martinez-Bracero, M., Bouziane, H. (2022). Chilling and Heat requirements for woody taxa in Tétouan (NW Morocco). Aerobiologia, 39, 241-255. ❄️🌡️
    • Boullayali, A., Ater M., Terral, J-F., Bouziane, H. Comparison of Olea pollen sampling between gravimetric and volumetric traps (NW of Morocco). Science of Total Environment. 📊🌰
    • Achmakh, L., Janati, A., Boullayali, A., Elhassani, L., Bouziane, H. (2020). Forecasting olive (Olea europaea L.) production using aerobiological and meteorological variables in Tétouan (NW Morocco). Aerobiologia, 36:749–759. 🌿📅
    • Elhassani, L., Boullayali, A., Janati, A., Achmakh, L., Bouziane, H. (2022). Aerobiological study of airborne pollen in Tétouan (NW of Morocco): diversity, intensity and calendar. Aerobiologia, 38:483–499. 🌼📆
    • Raissouni I., Achmakh L., Boullayali A., Bouziane H. (2024). Forecast models for start and peak dates of Poaceae pollen season in Tétouan (NW Morocco) using multiple regression analysis. International Journal of Biometeorology. 🌾🔮
    • Raissouni I., Boullayali A., Recio M., Bouziane H. Variations, trends and forecast models for the airborne Olea europaea pollen season in Tétouan (NW of Morocco). International Journal of Biometeorology. (Submitted). 🌳📈

      Conclusion

      Asmaa Boullayali is a strong candidate for the Research for Excellence in Research Award due to her exceptional academic credentials, significant research contributions, and active engagement in teaching and international scientific discourse. Her diverse research portfolio and proven track record of high-impact publications and conference presentations align well with the criteria for the award.Addressing the areas for improvement, particularly in showcasing broader impacts and future research plans, would further strengthen her application. Overall, her qualifications and achievements make her a noteworthy candidate for recognition in this prestigious award.