Exciting News: Rupesh Kariyat Appointed Endowed Professor at the University of Arkansas!

Rupesh Kariyat, an associate professor at the University of Arkansas, has earned the title of Clyde H. Sites Endowed Professor in International Crop Physiology. This recognition highlights his impactful research in plant-insect interactions.

Kariyat, originally from Kerala, India, joined the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station in 2022. His work focuses on understanding how plants respond to insects and other stresses. He also teaches courses in entomology and plant pathology and collaborates with the Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service.

Ken Korth, head of the entomology and plant pathology department, praised Kariyat’s expertise: “He brings a wealth of experience in plant defense responses. We’re fortunate to have him on board.” Kariyat balances research, teaching, and outreach, making significant contributions in all areas.

The Clyde H. Sites Endowed Professorship was created in 2004 by the Ben J. Altheimer Charitable Foundation, a supporter of education in Arkansas.

Kariyat expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “I’m honored to receive this professorship. It provides resources to help us study plant responses to various stresses and develop resilient crops and sustainable pest management strategies.”

He is currently mentoring six graduate students and has secured grants from prominent organizations, including the National Science Foundation and the USDA. This support amplifies his research efforts to improve agricultural practices.

Kariyat’s academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree from Kerala Agricultural University in 2003, followed by a master’s in agronomy from the University of Wyoming in 2007, and a PhD focused on insect-plant interactions from Pennsylvania State University in 2012. His postdoctoral research took him to ETH Zurich and involved fieldwork in Greece.

Before his role at the University of Arkansas, he was a faculty member at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, where he explored plant defenses and alternative pest management methods. This work is increasingly relevant as agriculture faces challenges from climate change and pest resistance, highlighting the need for sustainable practices.

Overall, Rupesh Kariyat’s contributions are vital for advancing agricultural science. With his expertise, the future looks promising for crop resilience and sustainable farming techniques.

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