Administrative Leadership

Dr. Giesler: A Visionary Leader in Plant Pathology

Since assuming the role of Head of the Department of Plant Pathology in 2018, Dr. Giesler has focused his efforts on administrative leadership, stepping away from his research, extension programs, and graduate student training. Despite this shift, he remains actively engaged in supporting the next generation of plant pathologists as the faculty advisor for the Plant Pathology Graduate Student Association. Additionally, he serves as the administrative advisor for the Soybean Disease Committee (NCAC 137) and contributes to the Crop Protection Network as part of its advisory leadership team.  He continues to contribute as a panel member on the Backyard Farmer program on Nebraska Public Media.

Dr. Giesler is committed to fostering a collaborative and inclusive departmental culture, emphasizing a strong sense of belonging among its members. Under his leadership, the department continues to advance its strategic vision of achieving Food Security for All People!

Past Contributions: Research and Extension

Before taking on his current role, Dr. Giesler dedicated 20 years to providing statewide leadership for extension programs in soybean pathology and urban plant health. His contributions include:

Soybean Pathology

• Led research on key diseases such as Bean Pod Mottle Virus, Soybean Cyst Nematode, and Phytophthora root and stem rot.
• Conducted disease surveys, management studies, and germplasm evaluations to enhance disease resistance.
• Developed integrated management programs for Phytophthora sojae, including soybean seed treatment fungicide trials.
• Played a pivotal role in the national identification and monitoring of soybean rust, coordinating the National Soybean Rust Sentinel Monitoring Efforts.

Urban Pathology

• Conducted fungicide efficacy trials for diseases affecting turfgrass quality on golf courses and landscape turfs.
• Led annual fungicide trials for black spot management in roses and addressed emerging ornamental plant diseases.
• Frequently appeared on the popular gardening program Backyard Farmer, sharing expertise in urban plant health.