Prof Dr Thomas Thomidis | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award
Education and Academic Background:
Dr. Thomidis holds a BSc Degree from T.E.I. Thessaloniki (1997) and a BSc (Hons) from Writtle College, University of Essex (2005). He completed his MSc at the University of Essex with a thesis on iron-pathogen interactions in peach trees. He earned his PhD from the same university, focusing on the detection and control of Phytophthora in Prunus species.
Professional Experience:
Dr. Thomidis has extensive experience in higher education, having served as an Assistant Professor (2004-2014) and Associate Professor (2015-2019) at the Alexander Technological Education Institute of Thessaloniki. Since May 2019, he has been with the International Hellenic University, first as an Associate Professor and then as a Full Professor from March 2022. He has supervised five PhD candidates and twelve MSc students.
Research and Contributions:
An active researcher, Dr. Thomidis has reviewed papers for 43 international journals and served as Guest Editor for “Frontier in Plant Science” and Editor for “Agriculture”. He has evaluated research projects for various prestigious organizations, including the Hellenic Ministry of Education and Horizon 2020.
Recognitions and Service:
Dr. Thomidis has held advisory roles with the Hellenic Ministry of Foreign Affairs and participated in numerous scientific committees and organizing committees for international conferences. He was awarded a postdoctoral research scholarship by the Greek National Organization of Public Scholarships. His work has garnered over 2070 citations.
Research Focus in Plant Pathology:
- Effect of Greek Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi on Oregano and Mint
- Citation: 154
- Study: This research investigated the role of three Greek arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in enhancing the growth, nutrient concentration, and essential oil production of oregano and mint plants .
- Impact of Peach Rootstocks on Yield and Resistance
- Citation: 75
- Study: This study evaluated the effect of 14 peach rootstocks on yield, fruit quality, mortality, girth expansion, frost damage resistance, and susceptibility to various stresses in the May Crest peach variety .
- Effect of Boron on Brown Rot Development in Peaches
- Citation: 70
- Study: This research examined how boron application influences the development of brown rot (Monilinia laxa) on peaches, providing insights into potential control methods .
- Pathogens’ Contribution to Peach Fruit Rot and Fungicide Sensitivity
- Citation: 65
- Study: The study focused on identifying pathogens causing peach fruit rot in northern Greece and their sensitivity to several fungicides, offering guidance on effective disease management practices .
- Inheritance of Resistance to Plum Pox Virus in Apricot
- Citation: 64
- Study: This research explored the genetic inheritance of resistance to Plum pox virus in apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.), contributing to the development of resistant cultivars .
- Diaporthe eres as a Pathogen of Peach Trees
- Citation: 59
- Study: The study identified Diaporthe eres as a new pathogen affecting peach trees in Greece, expanding the understanding of peach tree diseases .
- Fruit Rots of Pomegranate in Greece
- Citation: 52
- Study: This research documented fruit rots in pomegranate (cv. Wonderful) in Greece, contributing to the knowledge of pomegranate diseases and their management .
- Effects of Nitrogen and Irrigation on Grapes and Botrytis Bunch Rot
- Citation: 45
- Study: The study examined how nitrogen and irrigation affect grape quality and susceptibility to Botrytis bunch rot, informing better agricultural practices for grape production .
- Rooting of Peach Hardwood and Semi-Hardwood Cuttings
- Citation: 45
- Study: This research investigated the rooting potential of different peach cuttings, providing insights into propagation techniques .
- Rhizogenesis of Peach Cultivars in Relation to Carbohydrates and Hormones
- Citation: 44
- Study: The study explored the rooting process of various peach cultivars throughout the year, in relation to carbohydrate and natural hormone content .
- Neofusicoccum parvum and Its Effects on Peaches
- Citation: 42
- Study: This research identified Neofusicoccum parvum as a pathogen causing fruit rot and shoot blight in peaches, contributing to the management of this disease .
- Essential Oils as Bio-fungicides for Pomegranate Rot
- Citation: 39
- Study: The study evaluated the efficacy of five essential oils as bio-fungicides against Pilidiella granati rot in pomegranate, suggesting alternative, natural methods for disease control .