2025 APSA Seed Technology Webinar - Session 3 24 July 2025 / 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm (GMT+7)

Speaker Profile & Abstract

Dr Vilas Parkhi
Lead-Research, Mahyco Pvt. Ltd. 

Profile:

Senior research professional experienced in genetically modified and gene edited crop research. Currently involved in  overall administration of gene-edited trait development & deployment, genomics, trait-linked marker development, variety/hybrid predictions, AI/ML based digital phenomics research.

• B.Sc.: 1997 (Biochemistry, Microbiology, Chemistry), Nagpur University, India 
• M.Sc.: 1999 (Biochemistry), Nagpur University, India
• Ph.D.: 2006 (Environmental Sciences), S.P. Pune University, India (Ph.D. Thesis completed at International Rice Research Institute, Philippines with IRRI Scholarship, Developed genetically modified marker-free Vit-A rich “Golden Rice”).
• Post Doctoral Research; 2005-2009, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA (Developed disease and drought tolerant transgenic cotton.)
• Principal Scientist: 2009-2015, Advanta Seeds (UPL Ltd), Hyderabad (Worked on development of genetically modified crops)
• Research Associate: June 2001-August 2003, Central Institute of Cotton Research, Nagpur
• Research Associate: March 2000-June 2001; Mahyco Pvt. Ltd. Jalna
• Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.co.in/citations?user=hU-1l1sAAAAJ&hl=en
• Citations: 1032, h index: 14, Publications:  Peer Reviewed Research Articles: 20; Book Chapters: 3;          Books Co-Edited: 2 (Springer Nature Publications)
• Co- edited and published two Springer publications books on “CRISPR/Cas genome editing-Potential and strategies for crop improvement” and “TILLING and Eco-TILLING for crop improvement” resp.

Dr Jens Michael Carstensen
CEO, Videometer A/S

Profile:
Dr. Jens Michael Carstensen is CEO and co-founder of Videometer A/S. While founding and growing Videometer as a business over the last 20 years he has been part-time associate professor in imaging at the Technical University of Denmark. He was appointed adjunct professor of organism imaging at University of Copenhagen in 2009. Dr. Carstensen has been overall responsible for more than 750 commercial R&D projects of which many are in the seed and plant phenotyping field. Videometer is today a leading company within spectral imaging, which involves the whole process from illumination, optics, camera technology, imaging control, calibration, drift correction, multivariate analysis, segmentation, and quantification. Dr. Carstensen has co-authored 80+ peer-reviewed scientific publications as well as 6 patents. He is a member of the Vision Award jury for the biggest vision technology exhibition in the world held biannually in Stuttgart, Germany.

Abstract:
DIGITAL SEED QUALITY ANALYSIS BY SPECTRAL IMAGING

Revolutionizing the food and agriculture industry through spectral imaging, Videometer A/S has demonstrated how this technology can be used for precision seed analysis. Their recent advancements have further optimized application performance by leveraging digital seed databases and spectro-spatial analysis of physico-chemical properties, providing critical insights into seed quality traits and spectral range significance. Videometer continues to publish cutting-edge research and examples of real-world applications, cementing their position at the forefront of seed imaging innovations.

1. Predict physical purity and physical appearance class from spectral images.
2. Determine other seeds by number (OSD).
3. Estimate germination and vigor on the dry seeds, primed seeds, and on radicle emergence seeds. 
4. Assess their susceptibility to fungal infections. By leveraging spectral imaging, researchers can detect subtle changes in the seed's surface that indicate early stages of infection, allowing for timely intervention and improved crop yield.
5. Asses the effect of seed technology treatments.

These examples illustrate how Videometer's innovative approach to seed analysis is transforming the seed industry by providing reliable, detailed insights that drive better decision-making and improve agricultural outcomes.

Dr Sarel Ashkenazy
CEO & Founder, Seed-X

Profile:

Sarel Ashkenazi is an experienced entrepreneur with over 25 years of proven business leadership, and a background in sales, operations and management. Prior to founding Seed-X, Sarel served as EVP Business at Kornit Digital Ltd (NASDAQ: KRNT), where he spearheaded business development increasing the company’s sales from $0 to over $100M. 
In 2017, Sarel founded Seed-X Technologies, introducing AI and computer vision technologies to the Seed and Grain market. Sarel’s business and management experience underpin his vision of transforming traditional, conservative industries for success in the digital age.  https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarelashkenazi/

Abstract:
AI-Driven Non-Destructive Seed quality diagnostics methods.  

Harnessing AI and Deep Learning to Elevate Seed Quality Standards. In this session, we will explore how advanced deep learning algorithms and AI-driven technologies are transforming the agricultural industry’s ability to assess and enhance seed quality. The presentation will offer a comparative analysis of various imaging devices and vision systems, highlighting their effectiveness, limitations, and practical applications. Attendees will gain insights into how cutting-edge computer vision solutions can optimize seed sorting and classification processes, paving the way for more efficient and precise agricultural practices.