Bekir Sitki Karatas | Agricultural Technology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bekir Sitki Karatas | Agricultural Technology | Best Researcher Award

Associate Professor at Akdeniz University, Turkey 

Dr. Bekir Sitki Karatas is a seasoned academic and researcher, currently serving as an Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural Structures and Irrigation at Akdeniz University, Turkey. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades, he has established himself as an expert in irrigation systems, water management, geographic information systems (GIS), and remote sensing applications in agriculture. Dr. Karatas’s academic foundation was laid at Ege University, where he earned his B.S., M.Sc., and Ph.D. in Agricultural Structures and Irrigation. Throughout his professional journey, he has held diverse roles in academia and governmental institutions, demonstrating a robust blend of scientific knowledge and practical field experience. His work consistently focuses on enhancing the efficiency of agricultural water use and integrating advanced technologies such as GIS and remote sensing to inform irrigation practices. Dr. Karatas has a strong record of interdisciplinary collaboration and has contributed significantly to national and international research projects. His leadership and academic rigor have been instrumental in shaping water management policies and education within his field. With a commitment to scientific advancement and sustainable agricultural practices, he continues to mentor students and conduct impactful research, aiming to bridge the gap between academic research and real-world agricultural challenges.

Professional Profiles

Education

Dr. Bekir Sitki Karatas has pursued a comprehensive academic trajectory entirely at Ege University, one of Turkey’s leading institutions in agricultural sciences. He obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Structures and Irrigation in 1995, laying a strong foundation in the fundamental aspects of agricultural engineering. Driven by a passion for research and sustainable agricultural development, he continued at Ege University to earn his Master of Science in the same field in 1999. His master’s studies focused on the design and optimization of irrigation systems, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Building on this momentum, he completed his Ph.D. in 2006, with a dissertation that integrated modern irrigation technologies and spatial analysis tools—skills that would later define much of his academic career. His doctoral work involved in-depth exploration of water resource management and the utilization of geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing for agricultural efficiency. Throughout his academic development, Dr. Karatas honed a multidisciplinary perspective, blending engineering principles with environmental stewardship. His educational path reflects a strong commitment to agricultural sustainability, precision water management, and academic excellence, positioning him as a knowledgeable and innovative leader in the field of agricultural structures and irrigation systems.

Professional Experience

Dr. Bekir Sitki Karatas has built a multifaceted professional career characterized by academic achievement, government service, and applied research. His journey began at Ege University, where he served as a Teaching Assistant from 1997 to 2006, engaging in both academic instruction and early-stage research. He transitioned into public service as an Agricultural Engineer for the İzmir Provincial Special Administration from 2006 to 2009, where he played a vital role in implementing regional agricultural development projects. Progressing to the position of R&D Specialist in 2009 and later Director in 2010, Dr. Karatas contributed to the strategic planning and execution of sustainable agricultural programs. In 2011, he returned to academia as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Agricultural Structures and Irrigation at Adnan Menderes University, where he later became an Associate Professor in the Department of Biosystems Engineering. He held this position until 2020, focusing on teaching and research that aligned with emerging trends in water resource management and precision agriculture. Since 2020, he has been serving at Akdeniz University as an Associate Professor, leading research initiatives and guiding graduate students. His professional trajectory reflects a rare synergy between institutional leadership, public policy, and academic innovation.

Research Interest

Dr. Bekir Sitki Karatas’s research interests lie at the intersection of agricultural sustainability, technological innovation, and efficient resource management. His primary focus is on irrigation systems and water management, aiming to optimize water use in agriculture, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. Recognizing the growing global concern over water scarcity, he investigates strategies to enhance irrigation efficiency through both traditional and advanced techniques. A significant component of his work involves the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing technologies into agricultural planning. These tools allow for the spatial analysis of land, water resources, and crop needs, facilitating informed decision-making and precision agriculture. Dr. Karatas also explores climate-responsive irrigation strategies, evaluating how environmental variables influence irrigation scheduling and water allocation. His research contributes to sustainable agriculture by promoting smart farming techniques and the conservation of natural resources. Furthermore, he is interested in developing data-driven models that simulate irrigation system performance under varying climatic conditions. By aligning his academic pursuits with practical challenges faced by farmers and policy-makers, Dr. Karatas’s research offers tangible solutions to modern agricultural problems, bridging science, policy, and practice for resilient and productive farming systems.

Research Skills

Dr. Bekir Sitki Karatas possesses a comprehensive and highly specialized skill set that supports his work in agricultural engineering and resource management. He is an expert in irrigation design and evaluation, with hands-on experience in developing efficient systems tailored to diverse climatic and soil conditions. His skills in water balance analysis, soil-water-plant interactions, and evapotranspiration assessment enable him to devise irrigation strategies that conserve water while maximizing crop yields. He is also highly proficient in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), employing spatial analysis to map agricultural landscapes, identify irrigation inefficiencies, and support land-use planning. Dr. Karatas integrates remote sensing tools to monitor vegetation health, soil moisture, and land use changes, allowing for data-driven management of agricultural resources. His command of hydrological modeling and decision support systems further enhances his ability to analyze complex datasets and recommend actionable interventions. In addition to his technical expertise, he is skilled in research design, statistical analysis, scientific writing, and academic mentoring. These skills enable him to lead interdisciplinary research projects, publish high-impact papers, and guide students in both theoretical and applied agricultural research. His versatile and evolving skill set ensures his continued contribution to advancing sustainable irrigation practices and agricultural innovation.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his academic and professional career, Dr. Bekir Sitki Karatas has been recognized for his impactful contributions to agricultural sciences, particularly in irrigation and water management. Although specific awards are not detailed in the provided biography, his progressive academic appointments and leadership roles serve as significant indicators of his esteemed reputation within the field. His transition from public administration into academia, followed by consistent promotions to Associate Professor positions at two major Turkish universities, reflects institutional recognition of his expertise and leadership. His appointment to lead strategic roles, such as Director at the İzmir Provincial Special Administration, also highlights the trust placed in his technical and managerial capabilities. Furthermore, his long-standing involvement in research and teaching has earned him the respect of peers and students alike, often evidenced through collaboration opportunities and invitations to contribute to national research projects. It is likely that he has received internal university recognitions, grants, and honors for his research achievements, conference contributions, and mentorship efforts. His active presence in platforms like Google Scholar and ORCID also suggests a robust academic footprint, potentially linked to citations, project funding, or national-level recognition. These accolades, both formal and informal, collectively affirm his standing as a respected authority in his field.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Bekir Sitki Karatas stands as a distinguished academic whose work bridges scientific research, public policy, and practical application in the field of agricultural water management. With a career rooted in excellence, he has made significant contributions to irrigation engineering, sustainable agriculture, and the integration of spatial technologies in farming systems. His academic path, entirely shaped at Ege University, has given him a deep understanding of Turkey’s agricultural landscape, while his roles in both governmental agencies and academia have broadened his perspective and influence. Dr. Karatas’s ability to translate complex research into actionable strategies has made him a valuable resource for farmers, policymakers, and fellow researchers. His ongoing work at Akdeniz University reflects his commitment to training the next generation of agricultural engineers and addressing pressing issues like water scarcity and climate adaptation. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and maintaining a future-oriented research agenda, he continues to push the boundaries of knowledge in his field. Dr. Karatas’s career is a testament to the power of applied science, community engagement, and academic leadership, and he remains a vital contributor to sustainable agricultural development both in Turkey and internationally.

 Publications Top Notes

  1. Title: Using satellite remote sensing to assess irrigation performance in Water User Associations in the Lower Gediz Basin, Turkey
    Authors: BS Karatas, E Akkuzu, HB Unal, S Asik, M Avci
    Year: 2009
    Citations: 93

  2. Title: Determination of water conveyance loss in the Menemen open canal irrigation network
    Authors: E Akkuzu, HB Ünal, BS Karataş
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 81

  3. Title: General irrigation planning performance of water user associations in the Gediz Basin in Turkey
    Authors: E Akkuzu, HB Unal, BS Karatas, M Avci, S Asik
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 30

  4. Title: Evaluation of irrigation canal maintenance according to roughness and active canal capacity values
    Authors: E Akkuzu, HB Unal, BS Karatas, M Avci, S Asik
    Year: 2008
    Citations: 24

  5. Title: İzmir Kentsel Arıtılmış Atık Sularının Sulamada Kullanım Olanaklarının İncelenmesi
    Authors: BS Karataş, E Akkuzu, Ş Aşık
    Year: 2005
    Citations: 18

  6. Title: İzmir ili dahilindeki sulama birliklerinin genel sulama planlarına göre işletim performansı
    Authors: E Akkuzu, BS Karataş
    Year: 2004
    Citations: 16

  7. Title: Sulama suyu dağıtımına çiftçi tepkileri: Menemen Sol Sahil sulama sistemi örneği
    Authors: HB Ünal, M Avcı, Ş Aşık, E Akkuzu, M Kılıç, BS Karataş
    Year: 2004
    Citations: 14

  8. Title: Menemen Sol Sahil Sulama Sistemi su dağıtımında yeterliliğin ve değişkenliğin belirlenmesi
    Authors: E Akkuzu, Ş Aşık, HB Ünal, BS Karataş, M Avcı
    Year: 2003
    Citations: 14

  9. Title: Coğrafi bilgi sistemi ve uzaktan algılama teknikleriyle menemen sulama sistemi performansının değerlendirilmesi
    Authors: BS Karataş
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 9

  10. Title: Menemen sulama sisteminde taban suyunun zamana ve mekâna göre değişiminin jeoistatistiksel yöntemlerle değerlendirilmesi: Maltepe Ana Kanal Örneği
    Authors: G Çamoğlu, MK Ölgen, BS Karataş, Ş Aşık
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 9

  11. Title: Sürdürülebilir Mimarlık Bağlamında Çok Katlı Ofis Binalarında Ekolojik Tasarım İlkelerinin İrdelenmesi
    Authors: B Karataş
    Year: 2004
    Citations: 8

  12. Title: Aydın ili koşullarında sera ısıtmasında jeotermal enerjinin kullanılabilirliğinin incelenmesi
    Authors: BS Karataş, ÖF Durdu
    Year: 2013
    Citations: 7

  13. Title: Aşağı Gediz Havzası sulama sisteminde ana kanal düzeyinde su dağıtımında yeterliliğin ve değişkenliğin belirlenmesi
    Authors: E Akkuzu, HB Ünal, S Karataş
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 7

  14. Title: Gediz Havzası Akarsuları Yıllık Toplam Akımlarına En Uygun Olasılık Dağılım Modelinin Belirlenmesi
    Authors: Ş Aşık, E Akkuzu, BS Karataş
    Year: 2004
    Citations: 7

  15. Title: Araştırma görevlilerinin sorunları ve çözüm önerileri
    Authors: BS Karataş
    Year: 2006
    Citations: 4

  16. Title: İzmir atıksularının Menemen Ovası sulamasında kullanılabilirliğinin değerlendirilmesi üzerine bir inceleme
    Authors: BS Karataş
    Year: 1999
    Citations: 4

  17. Title: Amerikan Karşıtlığında Güncel Küresel Eğilimler ve Trump Etkisi
    Authors: C Dinç, B Karataş
    Year: 2018
    Citations: 3

  18. Title: Determination of irrigation performance of water user associations in the vicinity of Sarigol and Alasehir using remote sensing techniques
    Authors: BS Karatas, E Akkuzu, M Avci
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 3

  19. Title: Finansal Başarısızlık Tahmini Üzerine Türkiye’de Yayımlanan Lisansüstü Tezlerin Bibliyometrik Analizi (1991-2021)
    Authors: B Karataş, AV Can
    Year: 2023
    Citations: 2

  20. Title: Determination of adequacy and equity of water delivery in irrigation systems: a case study of the Gediz basin
    Authors: E Akkuzu, HB Ünal, BS Karatas
    Year: 2007
    Citations: 2

Kitti Sranacharoenpong | Agricultural Technology | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kitti Sranacharoenpong | Agricultural Technology | Best Researcher Award

Professor at ASEAN Institute for Health Development, Mahidol University, Thailand

Associate Professor Dr. Kitti Sranacharoenpong is a distinguished academic and public health professional whose career spans over two decades in the fields of nutrition, health promotion, and community-based research. With a deep commitment to improving population health through evidence-based interventions, Dr. Sranacharoenpong has significantly contributed to both academic scholarship and real-world health outcomes. His work seamlessly blends academic rigor with community engagement, focusing on issues such as non-communicable disease prevention, food and nutrition security, and sustainable health development. Known for his collaborative approach and dedication to interdisciplinary learning, he has held leadership roles in educational institutions and health-focused organizations, where he developed and led projects that bridged academia and public service. His ability to integrate policy, practice, and research is a hallmark of his work, earning him respect across academic and governmental sectors. He is also actively engaged in mentoring the next generation of public health professionals, fostering critical thinking and innovation among his students. Dr. Sranacharoenpong’s contributions reflect a passion for transformative change in public health, underpinned by a strong academic foundation and an unwavering commitment to equity and sustainability. His work continues to shape nutrition and health policies in Thailand and beyond.

Professional Profiles

Education

Dr. Kitti Sranacharoenpong has cultivated a robust educational background that underpins his contributions to public health and nutrition. He earned his Doctor of Public Health (Dr.P.H.) from Loma Linda University in California, United States, specializing in Nutrition. His doctoral studies focused on community health and nutrition policy, providing him with an advanced understanding of both theoretical and applied aspects of public health practice. Prior to his doctorate, he completed a Master of Science in Nutrition at Mahidol University, one of Thailand’s leading institutions in health sciences. His master’s thesis emphasized dietary behaviors and their implications for chronic disease prevention. Dr. Sranacharoenpong began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Khon Kaen University, where he developed a strong foundation in community health and epidemiology. Throughout his academic career, he consistently demonstrated academic excellence, leadership in student research, and a strong commitment to applying classroom learning to real-world contexts. This solid educational foundation has not only equipped him with the necessary tools to lead innovative public health programs but also empowered him to educate and mentor future leaders in nutrition and public health across academic and governmental sectors.

Professional Experience

Dr. Kitti Sranacharoenpong brings a wealth of professional experience that spans academic instruction, public health program development, and leadership in health-related initiatives. He currently serves as an Associate Professor at the School of Health Science at Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (STOU) in Thailand, where he is instrumental in curriculum development, teaching, and guiding student research. His previous roles include serving as a researcher and policy consultant on various national health projects, collaborating with organizations such as the Thai Health Promotion Foundation and the Ministry of Public Health. Dr. Sranacharoenpong has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles, reducing health disparities, and implementing sustainable nutrition interventions. His international experience includes research and academic engagements in the United States, enriching his perspective on global health issues. In addition to academic roles, he has also worked with NGOs and community-based organizations to design, implement, and evaluate nutrition education programs. Known for his integrative approach, he combines research, policy advocacy, and practical interventions to drive systemic change in public health. His diverse professional experience highlights his versatility and commitment to enhancing health outcomes through interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.

Research Interest

Dr. Sranacharoenpong’s research interests lie at the intersection of nutrition, public health, and sustainable development. He is particularly focused on non-communicable disease (NCD) prevention, food and nutrition security, and health promotion strategies tailored to diverse populations. His work emphasizes community-based participatory research (CBPR), ensuring that research projects are grounded in the needs and experiences of the communities they serve. He has conducted extensive research on dietary behaviors, health literacy, and the effectiveness of health education interventions in rural and underserved communities. Another major area of his research includes the integration of sustainability principles into nutrition programs, addressing both environmental and social determinants of health. Dr. Sranacharoenpong is also interested in the role of policy in shaping health outcomes, often investigating how public health regulations and government initiatives can support healthier behaviors at a population level. His interdisciplinary approach draws from public health, behavioral science, and environmental studies, making his research particularly relevant in an era of complex global health challenges. Through scholarly publications, conference presentations, and collaborative projects, Dr. Sranacharoenpong continues to advance the field of public health nutrition with practical, evidence-based insights.

Research Skills

Dr. Kitti Sranacharoenpong possesses a diverse and advanced set of research skills that underpin his contributions to public health and nutrition. His expertise includes both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, with particular proficiency in community-based participatory research (CBPR), surveys, focus groups, and needs assessments. He is adept at designing and implementing mixed-methods studies, enabling him to capture comprehensive insights into health behaviors and outcomes. Dr. Sranacharoenpong has extensive experience in program evaluation, particularly in assessing the effectiveness of health promotion and nutrition education interventions. He is skilled in using statistical analysis software such as SPSS and NVivo for data analysis and interpretation. His research often involves the development of culturally sensitive educational materials and assessment tools tailored to specific populations. Additionally, he has expertise in policy analysis, which supports his work in shaping public health strategies and government initiatives. Dr. Sranacharoenpong’s collaborative research style has led to successful partnerships across academia, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations, ensuring that his research findings are translated into actionable health programs and policies. His strong communication and grant-writing abilities further enhance his effectiveness as a researcher and educator.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Dr. Kitti Sranacharoenpong has received numerous awards and honors in recognition of his academic achievements, research excellence, and public health leadership. He was honored with a prestigious doctoral scholarship from Loma Linda University for his outstanding academic performance and commitment to community health. In Thailand, he has received national recognition from the Ministry of Public Health and the Thai Health Promotion Foundation for his contributions to nutrition education and community health promotion. His innovative work on sustainable nutrition interventions earned him accolades at both national and international conferences. He has also been awarded research grants from respected funding agencies, allowing him to advance impactful projects that address critical health issues in Thailand and Southeast Asia. Dr. Sranacharoenpong has been invited to serve as a keynote speaker and panelist at numerous academic and public health forums, further attesting to his influence in the field. His recognition reflects not only his individual accomplishments but also the tangible impact of his work in improving population health and shaping public health policy. These accolades affirm his status as a leader in the field of nutrition and public health.

Conclusion

In summary, Associate Professor Dr. Kitti Sranacharoenpong exemplifies a rare combination of academic excellence, practical experience, and visionary leadership in public health and nutrition. His dedication to improving population health through education, research, and community engagement has left a lasting imprint on both academic institutions and public health systems in Thailand and beyond. With a robust educational foundation, diverse professional background, and a deep commitment to interdisciplinary research, Dr. Sranacharoenpong continues to influence the field through his teaching, scholarly work, and policy advocacy. His contributions are characterized by a focus on sustainability, equity, and evidence-based practice, making him a vital figure in addressing today’s most pressing health challenges. As a mentor, educator, and researcher, he inspires students and colleagues alike to pursue excellence and innovation in their work. Looking ahead, Dr. Sranacharoenpong remains committed to fostering healthier communities and advancing global public health through collaboration, compassion, and science-based solutions. His enduring impact serves as a model for future generations of health professionals dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the world.

 Publications Top Notes


1. Title: Impact of resistant starch type 3 on fecal microbiota and stool frequency in Thai adults with chronic constipation: randomized clinical trial
Authors: S.S. Luk-In, Sirirat; C. Leepiyasakulchai, Chaniya; C. Saelee, Chutiphon; S. Srisakul, Sukrit; K. Sranacharoenpong, Kitti
Year: 2024


2. Title: Asian Low-Carbohydrate Diet with Increased Whole Egg Consumption Improves Metabolic Outcomes in Metabolic Syndrome: A 52-Week Intervention Study
Authors: B. Pinsawas, Bonggochpass; A. Surawit, Apinya; P. Mongkolsucharitkul, Pichanun; K. Sranacharoenpong, Kitti; K. Mayurasakorn, Korapat
Year: 2024
Citations: 4