Responsibilities
My responsibilities include, but are not limited to, assisting in the development and implementation of disease control for fruit crops in Ohio. The emphasis of this work is directed toward the development of disease control methods using various cultural, biological, and chemical control practices. I have worked on several projects concerning the epidemiology, etiology and ecology of pathogens of fruit crops. This work has been primarily with fungal pathogens.
I have also developed and utilized an expertise of environmental data collecting computers. These computers are integral in the development of disease forecasting systems for the major fungal pathogens of fruit. My work has branched into statistical analysis, as well as basic disease modeling. Through further utilization of my computer expertise, I developed an expertise of web page design and maintenance and have created websites used for teaching, extension, and dissemination of other university information for both Mike Ellis and Larry Madden.
My work has also branched into other areas, which include being the safety coordinator for Selby Hall. In this position I see to it that the university safety requirements and recommendations are understood and adhered to by the various research laboratories within the building. Additionally, as the formal staff representative to the faculty for our campus, I serve as the primary liaison between staff and faculty of the department.
In 2006, my responsibilities expanded to serve the university as the developer and technical coordinator of the new research weather station system being implemented in ten locations around the state. This ongoing project requires me to assemble, program, problem solve and maintain the stations.
Finally, I am also the coordinator and programmer of the new Phytotron area here in Selby Hall. I coordinate and program 16 new growth chambers of various sizes, as well as three older ones and six mist benches. Yet, the study of the epidemiology of fungal fruit pathogens is my true passion.
Education and Professional Experience
- MS Plant Pathology, The Ohio State University
- OSU / OARDC Outstanding Staff Award in 2000
- American Phytopathological Society (member since 1987)
- Member of the Wooster Campus Safety Committee since 2005 (Chair 2007-2009, Secretary 2011-present)
- Member of the OARDC IT Outreach Committee (2012 to present)
- Author or co-author on over 20 refereed journal articles