Judges

dr. fernando martínez román is a renowned expert in the field of biological sciences and serves as an i+d+i (research, development, and innovation) specialist at the institute of fat (instituto de la grasa) in sevilla, spain. with a distinguished career dedicated to the study and advancement of olive oil and related industries, he has made significant contributions in various capacities.

as an i+d+i specialist, dr. martínez román has played a pivotal role in the almazara experimental, a research facility within the unit of industrial processes and environment at the institute of fat. additionally, he holds the esteemed position of head of the sensory panel for evaluating olive oils at the same institute.

dr. martínez román's expertise is not limited to research and development alone. he has actively engaged with both national and international companies in over 120 significant i+d contracts, demonstrating his commitment to bridging the gap between academia and industry.

in the realm of education, dr. martínez román has made substantial contributions as well. he has been a professor in nine editions of the high specialization course in fats and has also taught in eleven editions of the master's program in olive farming and olive oil technology, where he has taken on the role of area coordinator in three of those editions.

dr. martínez román's dedication to his field extends beyond his work in spain. he has been selected as a member of various international panels and juries, showcasing his expertise on a global scale. this international recognition highlights his influential presence in the global olive oil industry.

dr. martínez román's influence has even extended to the creation of a sensory panel for olive oil recognition in collaboration with the international olive council (coi).

his multifaceted contributions to the world of olive oil and his dedication to research, education, and international collaboration have solidified dr. fernando martínez román's position as a prominent figure in the field of biological sciences and the olive oil industry.

maria paz aguilera is a highly accomplished professional with a strong background in the field of food science and olive oil research. she holds a bachelor's degree in sciences from the university of granada and earned her doctorate in chemical sciences from the university of jaén. her expertise in the world of olives and olive oil is widely recognized, and she has made significant contributions to the industry.

currently, maria paz aguilera serves as the head of panel and is responsible for the experimental kitchen with olive oil at citoliva, where she conducts groundbreaking research and experiments related to olive oil quality and culinary applications. additionally, she is actively involved in research at the ifapa venta del llano research center.

maria paz aguilera's influence extends beyond her research roles, as she has served as a jury member in numerous national and international fairs and competitions, including expoliva, ecoliva, terra oleum, and oviveja in spain, as well as events in los angeles and japan.

in terms of her academic contributions, she has authored 21 publications in international specialized journals and has co-authored several books focusing on the olive and organoleptic evaluation.

furthermore, maria paz aguilera has shared her knowledge and expertise by teaching courses at the university of jaén, particularly in postgraduate programs, where she has notably contributed to the "expert in extra virgin olive oil tasting" program.

with her extensive experience, dedication to olive oil research, and significant contributions to the field, maria paz aguilera is a respected figure in the world of food science and the olive oil industry. her work continues to impact the quality and appreciation of olive oil on a global scale.

dr. eng. kaouther ben hassine is a distinguished and accomplished individual whose passion for the fields of food and agriculture has left an indelible mark on the industry. with a profound dedication to innovation and research, she has emerged as a leading luminary in her domain.

as an assistant professor at the ministry of agriculture and water resources and a valued member of the esteemed institution of agricultural research and higher education, dr. ben hassine has consistently demonstrated her unwavering commitment to advancing the frontiers of knowledge in these critical areas. her journey has been marked by relentless curiosity, unyielding perseverance, and a deep-rooted desire to contribute to the betterment of society.

with an extensive academic background that spans numerous accolades and degrees, dr. ben hassine's expertise shines brilliantly. she possesses a unique ability to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring that her research and teachings have a real-world impact. her innovative approaches to addressing the challenges facing the agriculture and food sectors have earned her the admiration and respect of peers and students alike.

beyond her academic prowess, dr. ben hassine is a true advocate for sustainability and the responsible stewardship of our planet's resources. her work not only focuses on improving crop yields and food production but also on ensuring that these advancements are environmentally friendly and socially responsible. her vision extends far beyond the confines of her classroom or laboratory, encompassing a broader commitment to the global community.

throughout her career, dr. ben hassine has been a source of inspiration for aspiring scientists and a beacon of hope for the agricultural and food industries. her contributions have not only enriched our understanding of these vital sectors but have also paved the way for a more sustainable and prosperous future.

in a world where the challenges of food security and sustainable agriculture are more pressing than ever, dr. eng. kaouther ben hassine stands as a shining example of what can be achieved through unwavering dedication, innovative thinking, and a passion for making a positive impact. her biography serves as a testament to her exceptional journey, and her work continues to shape the future of food and agriculture for generations to come.

dr. olfa baccouri is an accomplished professional with a distinguished background in plant biotechnology and olive oil research. her academic journey commenced with a focus on plant biotechnology at the sciences faculty of tunis. subsequently, she pursued her academic pursuits in italy, where she earned both a master's and a ph.d. degree in olive oil sensorial and biochemical characterization. her commitment to specialization in this field of research has led to remarkable achievements.

dr. baccouri has made significant contributions to the field of olive oil biochemistry, with authorship and co-authorship of numerous scientific articles, totaling fifty publications. with over two decades of experience, she has played a pivotal role in mentoring and guiding students and fellow researchers in the realm of olive oil characterization.

currently holding the position of associate professor at the institute of medical biotechnology in tunis, dr. baccouri is actively engaged in multiple projects geared towards enhancing the valorization of tunisian olive oils. her research endeavors extend to a comprehensive exploration of therapeutic molecules present in both olives and leaves.

dr. baccouri's expertise extends beyond academia. she has served as a panel judge in the new york international olive oil competition since 2013, assuming the role of panel leader in 2018. in addition to her esteemed role in new york, she has also taken on the role of panel leader at the dubai international olive oil competition in 2021.

beyond her academic and judging commitments, dr. baccouri is an independent expert/consultant, collaborating with numerous national and international companies across the olive oil value chain. her contributions have been instrumental in promoting their products and enhancing the overall quality of olive oil production.

dr. olfa baccouri's extensive knowledge, expertise, and dedication have made her an influential figure in the field of olive oil research and production. her multifaceted contributions continue to shape and elevate the olive oil industry on both national and international levels.

jill myers, a passionate sommelier and dedicated ambassador of the liquid gold that is olive oil, hails from the picturesque landscapes of charlottesville, virginia. her journey is a tantalizing tale of taste, education, and global inspiration.

certified by the prestigious international culinary center in the vibrant heart of new york city, jill's culinary prowess was further honed by specialized training in the rich traditions of mediterranean cuisine at the renowned national and kapodistrian university of athens. these formative experiences transformed her into a true connoisseur of the culinary world.

jill's expertise doesn't stop at savoring flavors. she is a sought-after consultant and educator on the art of extra virgin olive oil (evoo). her discerning palate and deep knowledge make her the go-to authority for those looking to elevate their gastronomic experiences.

beyond educating and enlightening, jill also curates exceptional culinary journeys as an importer and distributor of the highest quality evoo. her commitment to sourcing only the finest olive oils has earned her a well-deserved reputation as a curator of taste.

in 2020, jill's dedication to the slow food movement led to the founding of slow food piedmont, where she became a driving force as a liaison to the national board. her passion for preserving traditional food cultures and sustainable practices is evident in every endeavor she undertakes.

jill's trailblazing spirit truly shone when, in april 2020, she gave life to women in olive oil (wioo). what began as a modest facebook group quickly blossomed into a global movement. jill's vision and leadership have empowered women from all corners of the world, bringing them together to celebrate and advance their roles in the olive oil industry.

in jill myers, we find a remarkable blend of expertise, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the world of culinary excellence. her journey through the flavors of the world continues to inspire, educate, and tantalize the taste buds of all who have the privilege of crossing paths with this extraordinary sommelier and olive oil aficionado.