Natalia Falagan | Sustainable Agriculture | Innovative Research Award

Innovative Research Award

Natalia Falagan
Affiliation Cranfield University
Country United Kingdom
Scopus ID 55948523000
Documents 44
Citations 946
h-index 17
Subject Area Sustainable Agriculture
Event Agri Scientist Awards
ORCID 0000-0002-7672-9565
Natalia Falagan 
Cranfield University

Natalia Falagan is an academic researcher associated with Cranfield University whose scholarly work has contributed to the advancement of sustainable agriculture, postharvest technology, food quality preservation, and agricultural innovation. Through interdisciplinary research integrating crop science, supply chain sustainability, storage technologies, and quality assessment methodologies, her publications have supported improved agricultural productivity and resource efficiency. The Innovative Research Award recognizes contributions that demonstrate scientific originality, practical applicability, and measurable influence within agricultural and environmental systems. The researcher’s publication record, citation performance, and international visibility reflect a sustained commitment to addressing contemporary challenges in sustainable food production and postharvest management.[1]

Abstract

The Innovative Research Award acknowledges scholarly excellence demonstrated through impactful research, scientific rigor, and practical relevance. Natalia Falagan’s academic portfolio reflects significant contributions to sustainable agriculture and postharvest science, with a focus on improving food quality, extending shelf life, and enhancing resource efficiency across agricultural systems. Her research integrates technological innovation with sustainability objectives, supporting evidence-based improvements throughout food supply chains. Through peer-reviewed publications, collaborative projects, and measurable citation influence, her work has contributed to the advancement of agricultural knowledge and informed professional practice in areas related to crop preservation, food security, and environmental sustainability.[2]

Keywords

Sustainable Agriculture, Postharvest Technology, Food Quality, Agricultural Innovation, Supply Chain Sustainability, Crop Preservation, Food Security, Resource Efficiency, Environmental Sustainability, Research Excellence.

Introduction

Sustainable agricultural development requires innovative solutions capable of reducing losses, improving product quality, and strengthening resilience throughout food production systems. Researchers working at the intersection of agricultural science, technology, and sustainability play a critical role in generating evidence-based strategies that address these objectives. Natalia Falagan has contributed to this evolving field through investigations focused on postharvest management, food preservation technologies, and quality optimization. Her work aligns with broader international priorities associated with sustainable food systems and responsible resource utilization, making it relevant to both academic and industrial stakeholders.[3]

Research Profile

As a researcher affiliated with Cranfield University, Natalia Falagan has developed a scholarly profile characterized by interdisciplinary inquiry and practical application. Her academic activities encompass sustainable agriculture, food systems innovation, postharvest technology, and quality management. The documented publication record, citation metrics, and international collaborations indicate sustained engagement with contemporary agricultural challenges. Through participation in research projects and dissemination of findings in peer-reviewed venues, she has contributed to the scientific understanding of methods that improve agricultural efficiency while supporting environmental and economic sustainability objectives.[1]

Research Contributions

The researcher’s contributions emphasize innovative approaches to maintaining product quality and reducing losses throughout agricultural supply chains. Her investigations have explored preservation technologies, storage optimization, quality monitoring, and sustainable handling practices that support improved food availability and consumer satisfaction. By integrating scientific analysis with practical implementation considerations, the research provides valuable insights for producers, processors, distributors, and policymakers. These contributions strengthen the knowledge base required for developing resilient agricultural systems capable of meeting growing global demands while minimizing environmental impacts.[4]

Publications

Natalia Falagan has authored and co-authored numerous scholarly publications addressing postharvest science, sustainable agriculture, food quality assessment, and agricultural innovation. The publication portfolio demonstrates methodological diversity and interdisciplinary engagement, reflecting collaborations across scientific disciplines and institutional settings. Articles appearing in recognized journals have contributed to academic discourse regarding food preservation, crop quality enhancement, supply chain efficiency, and sustainability-oriented technological development. The documented body of work provides evidence of sustained research productivity and scholarly influence within relevant fields of agricultural science.[2]

Research Impact

Research impact can be assessed through scholarly visibility, citation performance, and practical relevance. With a substantial citation record and an established h-index, Natalia Falagan’s publications have received recognition from the academic community and contributed to ongoing scientific discussions. Beyond bibliometric indicators, the practical orientation of her work enhances its significance by supporting improvements in agricultural operations, food quality management, and sustainability practices. Such outcomes demonstrate the ability of research to generate benefits extending beyond academia and into industry and society.[1][5]

Award Suitability

The Innovative Research Award recognizes individuals whose scholarly achievements demonstrate originality, relevance, and measurable impact. Natalia Falagan’s academic accomplishments align with these criteria through her contributions to sustainable agriculture and postharvest innovation. The integration of scientific rigor with practical applicability, combined with evidence of international research visibility and influence, supports her suitability for recognition. Her work addresses important agricultural challenges while advancing knowledge that contributes to sustainability, food security, and quality improvement objectives within contemporary food systems.[3]

Conclusion

Natalia Falagan’s research career reflects a sustained commitment to advancing agricultural science through innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and evidence-based inquiry. Her contributions to sustainable agriculture, postharvest management, and food quality preservation have generated scholarly and practical value. Supported by a strong publication record and recognized research influence, her work demonstrates characteristics associated with impactful scientific achievement. The Innovative Research Award serves as an appropriate acknowledgment of contributions that continue to support progress toward more sustainable and efficient agricultural systems worldwide.

References

  1. Elsevier. (n.d.). Scopus author details: Natalia Falagan, Author ID 55948523000. Scopus.
    https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=55948523000
  2. Natalia Falagán, Roberta Tosetti, Ewan Gage, Leon A. Terry. (2025). Molecular and metabolic response of ‘Piccolo’ cherry tomato to Graduated Controlled Atmosphere.
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.postharvbio.2025.114133
  3. Cranfield University research data. (2024). Controlled atmosphere as cold chain support for extending postharvest life in cabbage.
    https://doi.org/10.57996/cran.ceres-2617
  4. Falagan, N., et al. (2024). Reducing food loss and waste contributes to energy, economic and environmental sustainability.
    https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2024.142068
  5. ORCID. (n.d.). ORCID record for Natalia Falagan.
    https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7672-9565

Ratibor Štrbanović | Vegetable Plants | Best Researcher Award

Dr Ratibor Štrbanović | Vegetable Plants | Best Researcher Award

Senior Research Associate at  Institute for Plant Protection and Environment,  Serbia

Dr. Ratibor Štrbanović is a Senior Research Associate at the Institute for Plant Protection and Environment in Belgrade, Serbia. He specializes in forage crop genetics, seed quality assessment, and molecular breeding. He earned his Ph.D. in Agriculture from the University of Belgrade in 2016, focusing on the identification of alfalfa cultivars using molecular markers.

Profile:

🎓 Education & Expertise:

Dr. Ratibor Štrbanović is an accomplished plant scientist specializing in forage crop genetics, seed quality, and molecular breeding. He earned his Ph.D. in Agriculture from the University of Belgrade (2016), focusing on the identification of alfalfa cultivars using molecular markers.

🔬 Research & Professional Experience:

  • Senior Research Associate at the Institute for Plant Protection and Environment, Belgrade (2012–present)
    • Head of the Laboratory for Seed Quality Testing
    • Specializes in seed quality assurance, genetic improvement, and molecular breeding
    • Oversees ISO/IEC 17025:2017 implementation in laboratory testing
  • Research Assistant at the Institute for Forage Crops, Kruševac (2006–2011)
    • Focused on selection and breeding of perennial legumes

📑 Research Contributions & Impact:

167 scientific publications in international and national journals
Key researcher in multiple national projects on forage breeding, genetic improvement, and sustainable livestock production
Member of national commissions for soybean variety recognition
Active in scientific societies, including the Society of Geneticists and Plant Breeders of Serbia

🛠 Skills & Achievements:

✔ Expertise in genetic variability, plant breeding, and seed technology
✔ Strong background in laboratory quality management and risk analysis
✔ Fluent in English and proficient in computer applications
✔ Experienced in international collaboration and research supervision

Citation Metrics:

  • Total Citations: 104
  • h-index: 6
  • Total Publications: 21
  • Cited Documents: 97

Publication Top Notes:

  • Seed Quality and Seedling Growth After Applying Ecological Treatments to Crimson Clover Seeds
    Plants, 2025-03-07. DOI: 10.3390/plants14060839
    Authors: Ratibor Štrbanović, Branimir Šimić, Mariana Stanišić, Dobrivoj Poštić, Nenad Trkulja, Violeta Oro, Rade Stanisavljević

  • Dynamics of Moisture Release from Maize Husks as a Function of Crop Density
    Journal on Processing and Energy in Agriculture, 2024. DOI: 10.5937/jpea28-49481
    Authors: Marijneka Tabaković, Dobrivoj Poštić, Ivana Živković, Ratibor Štrbanović, Ljubiša Kolarić, Mile Sečanski, Rade Stanisavljević, Violeta Oro

  • Evaluation of the Quality Indicators of Pepper Hybrid Seeds During Germination
    Journal on Processing and Energy in Agriculture, 2024. DOI: 10.5937/jpea28-49491
    Authors: Dobrivoj Poštić, Ratibor Štrbanović, Marijenka Tabaković, Nenad Đurić, Nenad Pavlović, Sanja Đurović, Rade Stanisavljević

  • Quality of Alfalfa Seeds from Different Regions of Serbia During Storage Up to 42 Months
    Journal on Processing and Energy in Agriculture, 2024. DOI: 10.5937/jpea28-49467
    Authors: Rade Stanisavljević, Dobrivoj Poštić, Ratibor Štrbanović, Violeta Oro, Jasmina Milenković, Marijenka Tabaković, Dragoslav Đokić

  • Application of Alternative Methods of Crop Protection in Sustainable Agriculture
    Selekcija i Semenarstvo, 2023. DOI: 10.5937/SelSem2301043T
    Authors: Marijenka Tabaković, Vesna Dragičević, Ratibor Štrbanović, Ivana Živković, Milan Brankov, Sveto Rakić, Violeta Oro

  • Changes in Quality Indicators of Different Cucumber Hybrid Seeds During Five Years of Aging
    Journal on Processing and Energy in Agriculture, 2023. DOI: 10.5937/jpea27-42793
    Authors: Dobrivoj Poštić, Ratibor Štrbanović, Marijenka Tabaković, Nenad Đurić, Ivana Živković, Marija Milivojević, Rade Stanisavljević

  • Influence of the Presence of Weeds and Other Impurities in Natural Alfalfa Seed on Finishing Machines Work and Seed Quality During Three Years
    Romanian Agricultural Research, 2023. DOI: 10.59665/rar4025
    Authors: Dragoslav Đokić, Dragan Terzić, Jasmina Knežević, Aleksandar Vuković, Dobrivoj Poštić, Ratibor Štrbanović, Rade Stanisavljević

 

Panagiotis Madesis | Sustainable Agriculture | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr Panagiotis Madesis |  Sustainable Agriculture |  Best Researcher Award

Certh/inab,  Greece

Dr. Panagiotis Madesis Assistant Professor, University of Thessaly School of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Agriculture Crop Production and Rural Environment Specialization: Cellular and Molecular Biology.

 

Publication Profile

Education:

  • Ph.D., Genetic Engineering and Molecular Biology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 2004
  • M.Sc., Plant Breeding and Plant Physiology, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 1998
  • B.Sc., Agriculture, Plant Science, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 1996

Awards and Distinctions:

  • Distinction by the President of the Hellenic Republic, Ministry of Rural Development, 2013
  • Christidis Award for Best Presentation, 15th Greek Conference of Plant Breeding and Genetics Society
  • Papadakis Award for Best Poster, 16th Greek Conference of Plant Breeding and Genetics Society

Research Interests:

  • Plant breeding and biotechnology
  • Stress tolerance in plants
  • Food fraud detection and traceability
  • Plant genomics and biodiversity assessment
  • Human health and high-value plant product development

Research Focus:

Dr. Panagiotis Madesis is an expert in cellular and molecular biology, focusing on plant stress tolerance mechanisms, plant breeding, and the application of biotechnology for developing higher-yielding and stress-tolerant crops. His work involves the use of genomics and “omics” technologies to improve plant health and productivity. He is also interested in food safety, specifically in detecting food fraud and identifying adulteration in commercial products.

Citations:

  • Total Citations: 5227
  • Citations Since 2019: 3511

h-index:

  • Total h-index: 41
  • h-index Since 2019: 30

i10-index:

  • Total i10-index: 120
  • i10-index Since 2019: 105

Publication Top Note:

  • Plant glutathione transferase-mediated stress tolerance: functions and biotechnological applications
    I Nianiou-Obeidat, P Madesis, C Kissoudis, G Voulgari, E Chronopoulou, …
    Plant Cell Reports, 36, 791-805, 2017
  • Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria isolated from halophytes and drought-tolerant plants: Genomic characterisation and exploration of phyto-beneficial traits
    K Leontidou, S Genitsaris, A Papadopoulou, N Kamou, I Bosmali, T Matsi, …
    Scientific Reports, 10(1), 14857, 2020
  • The use of lupin as a source of protein in animal feeding: Genomic tools and breeding approaches
    EM Abraham, I Ganopoulos, P Madesis, A Mavromatis, P Mylona, …
    International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 20(4), 851, 2019
  • Advances of DNA-based methods for tracing the botanical origin of food products
    P Madesis, I Ganopoulos, I Sakaridis, A Argiriou, A Tsaftaris
    Food Research International, 60, 163-172, 2014
  • Overexpression of a specific soybean GmGSTU4 isoenzyme improves diphenyl ether and chloroacetanilide herbicide tolerance of transgenic tobacco plants
    K Benekos, C Kissoudis, I Nianiou-Obeidat, N Labrou, P Madesis, …
    Journal of Biotechnology, 150(1), 195-201, 2010
  • Microsatellite and DNA-barcode regions typing combined with High Resolution Melting (HRM) analysis for food forensic uses: A case study on lentils (Lens culinaris)
    I Bosmali, I Ganopoulos, P Madesis, A Tsaftaris
    Food Research International, 46(1), 141-147, 2012
  • The application of Bar-HRM (Barcode DNA-High Resolution Melting) analysis for authenticity testing and quantitative detection of bean crops (Leguminosae) without prior DNA …
    P Madesis, I Ganopoulos, A Anagnostis, A Tsaftaris
    Food Control, 25(2), 576-582, 2012
  • Barcode High Resolution Melting (Bar-HRM) analysis for detection and quantification of PDO “Fava Santorinis”(Lathyrus clymenum) adulterants
    I Ganopoulos, P Madesis, N Darzentas, A Argiriou, A Tsaftaris
    Food Chemistry, 133(2), 505-512, 2012
  • Barcode-DNA High Resolution Melting (Bar-HRM) analysis as a novel close-tubed and accurate tool for olive oil forensic use
    I Ganopoulos, C Bazakos, P Madesis, P Kalaitzis, A Tsaftaris
    103, 2012
  • Cell and molecular biology of plastids
    R Bock
    Springer Science & Business Media, 95, 2007
  • Tobacco plants over-expressing the sweet orange tau glutathione transferases (CsGSTUs) acquire tolerance to the diphenyl ether herbicide fluorodifen and to salt and drought …
    LL Cicero, P Madesis, A Tsaftaris, ARL Piero
    Phytochemistry, 116, 69-77, 2015
  • DNA replication, recombination, and repair in plastids
    A Day, P Madesis
    Cell and Molecular Biology of Plastids, 65-119, 2007
  • Olives and olive oil as functional foods
    A Kiritsakis, F Shahidi
    UK: John Wiley & Sons, 90, 2017
  • Exploring priming responses involved in peach fruit acclimation to cold stress
    MA Tanou G, Minas IS, Scossa F, Belghazi M, Xanthopoulou A, Ganopoulos I, …
    Scientific Reports, 7(1), 11358, 2017
  • Bar-HRM for authentication of plant-based medicines: evaluation of three medicinal products derived from Acanthaceae species
    M Osathanunkul, P Madesis, H De Boer
    PLOS ONE, 10(5), e0128476, 2015
  • DNA barcode ITS2 coupled with high resolution melting (HRM) analysis for taxonomic identification of Sideritis species growing in Greece
    A Kalivas, I Ganopoulos, A Xanthopoulou, P Chatzopoulou, A Tsaftaris, …
    Molecular Biology Reports, 41, 5147-5155, 2014
  • Transfer of plastid DNA to the nucleus is elevated during male gametogenesis in tobacco
    AE Sheppard, MA Ayliffe, L Blatch, A Day, SK Delaney, N Khairul-Fahmy, …
    Plant Physiology, 148(1), 328-336, 2008
  • Binding and glutathione conjugation of porphyrinogens by plant glutathione transferases
    DP Dixon, A Lapthorn, P Madesis, EA Mudd, A Day, R Edwards
    Journal of Biological Chemistry, 283(29), 20268-20276, 2008
  • A novel closed-tube method based on high resolution melting (HRM) analysis for authenticity testing and quantitative detection in Greek PDO Feta cheese
    I Ganopoulos, I Sakaridis, A Argiriou, P Madesis, A Tsaftaris
    Food Chemistry, 141(2), 835-840, 2013
  • Vegetable grafting from a molecular point of view: the involvement of epigenetics in rootstock-scion interactions
    A Tsaballa, A Xanthopoulou, P Madesis, A Tsaftaris, I Nianiou-Obeidat
    Frontiers in Plant Science, 11, 621999, 2021