Assoc. Prof. Dr. Apiradee Uthairatanakij | Agriculture | Best Researcher Award
King Momgkut’s University of Technology Thonburi | Thailand
Apiradee Uthairatanakij is a distinguished lecturer and researcher at King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, where she has dedicated her career to advancing agricultural sciences and postharvest technology. With a strong academic foundation and an enduring commitment to research excellence, she has significantly contributed to sustainable crop production and food security. Her work integrates innovative methods such as LED lighting, plasma-activated water, and plant biostimulants to enhance crop growth, nutritional value, and shelf life. She has collaborated internationally with leading institutions, contributing to a global exchange of knowledge and innovation. With over a hundred peer-reviewed publications, multiple book chapters, and recognition in scientific circles, her impact extends beyond academia into industry applications and community development. Her role as a mentor has empowered students and researchers worldwide, strengthening agricultural research networks. Through dedication, expertise, and visionary outlook, she continues to shape advancements in crop technology and food sustainability.
Profile
Scopus
Education
Apiradee Uthairatanakij pursued her doctoral studies at the University of Western Sydney, specializing in plant sciences with a focus on crop improvement and postharvest technology. Her academic journey cultivated a strong foundation in plant physiology, biochemistry, and agricultural innovation, which has guided her lifelong research path. Prior to her doctoral degree, she built expertise in agricultural technology and biological sciences, developing a deep understanding of crop systems and the challenges faced in food production and preservation. Her education emphasized bridging theory with practice, allowing her to explore advanced solutions for improving crop yield, quality, and sustainability. Over the years, she has expanded her academic knowledge through continuous professional development, research collaborations, and participation in global scientific forums. Her educational background not only provided technical expertise but also instilled a vision for applying scientific advancements to real-world agricultural challenges, ensuring her contributions remain both innovative and impactful.
Experience
Apiradee Uthairatanakij has established a long and impactful career at King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, where she has served as a lecturer, mentor, and researcher. Her academic experience spans teaching courses, guiding postgraduate research, and building cross-disciplinary collaborations in agricultural and food sciences. She has successfully managed multiple research projects, both national and international, addressing critical issues in postharvest technology, sustainable crop production, and food security. Her expertise extends to developing functional foods, plant biostimulants, and green technologies that support environmentally friendly agricultural practices. She has worked closely with industry partners, ensuring her scientific discoveries translate into practical applications for farmers, agribusiness, and communities. Additionally, her collaborative research with institutions such as Oregon State University and the University of Hawaii at Manoa demonstrates her global engagement. Her experience is marked by innovation, mentorship, and the ability to bridge academia and industry, strengthening agricultural sciences worldwide.
Awards and Honors
Apiradee Uthairatanakij has earned recognition for her exceptional contributions to agricultural science and crop technology. She has been honored with prestigious awards acknowledging her innovative research in postharvest technology, crop nutrition, and plant biostimulants. Her outstanding paper in the field of crops for nutrition and health was recognized by the Crop Science Society of America, reflecting her excellence in publishing impactful research. Her numerous publications, high citation record, and strong H-index further demonstrate her influence and leadership in the field. In addition to formal awards, her contributions are celebrated through international collaborations, invited book chapters, and recognition within professional scientific communities. Her work has contributed to advancing sustainable agriculture and food quality, earning respect from both academic and industrial sectors. Through her achievements, she continues to serve as a role model for scientists, educators, and researchers dedicated to creating sustainable solutions for food and agriculture.
Research Focus
The research of Apiradee Uthairatanakij centers on innovative agricultural practices and postharvest technologies aimed at enhancing crop production, food quality, and sustainability. She investigates the use of LED lighting to stimulate secondary metabolite production in vegetables, thereby improving nutritional properties and functional food value. Her work on plasma-activated water and plant biostimulants explores eco-friendly alternatives for crop cultivation, ensuring high-quality produce while reducing environmental impact. She has made significant advances in postharvest technologies that extend shelf life, reduce losses, and maintain freshness in horticultural crops such as jackfruit, pineapple, and lettuce. Her research also focuses on developing nano-fertilizers, functional ingredients from plant proteins, and green technologies that align with global needs for food security. By combining fundamental plant science with applied technology, her research provides practical solutions that support both farmers and consumers, while contributing to long-term goals of sustainability, nutrition, and environmental stewardship in agriculture.
Publications
Title: Unveiling the effects of psyllium husk, mung bean protein, and transglutaminase on the quality characteristics of heat moisture-treated gluten-free rice pasta
Year: 2025
Citation: 3
Title: Ripeness and quality of harvested durian determined using Raman spectroscopy combined with physico-chemical and volatile characteristics
Year: 2024
Citation: 3
Title: Phytosanitary irradiation effects on fresh produce quality – A review
Year: 2024
Citation: 2
Title: Effects of cluster dextrin encapsulation on the properties and antioxidant stability of fractionated Riceberry protein hydrolysate powder prepared by bromelain
Year: 2024
Citation: 5
Title: Rice husk-methyl salicylate (RH-MeSA) sachet for maintaining the quality of ‘Namwa’ bananas during stimulated export
Year: 2024
Citation: 0
Title: Alleviation of internal browning and fruit rot disease in ‘Pattavia’ pineapple using ethanolic shellac-modified coconut oil coating
Year: 2023
Citation: 1
Title: Pre-harvest supplemental LED treatments led to improved postharvest quality of sweet basil leaves
Year: 2023
Citation: 7
Conclusion
Through her groundbreaking research, dedicated teaching, and international collaborations, Apiradee Uthairatanakij has made transformative contributions to sustainable agriculture, postharvest technology, and food security, positioning herself as a visionary scientist whose work continues to inspire innovation, empower future researchers, and drive global progress in crop science and nutritional health.