Administrative Leadership

Dr. Giesler: A Visionary Leader for Plant Health and Insect Sciences

Since assuming leadership of the Department of Plant Pathology in 2018, Dr. Loren Giesler has focused his efforts on administrative leadership, transitioning away from his research, Extension programs, and graduate student training. In August 2026, he was appointed the inaugural Director of the School of Plant Health and Insect Sciences, bringing together the Departments of Plant Pathology and Entomology to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration, advance scientific discovery, and expand the impact of teaching, research, and Extension.

Dr. Giesler's leadership is grounded in supporting faculty, staff, and students, fostering professional development, and creating opportunities for future scientists. He serves as administrative advisor for the Soybean Disease Committee (NCAC 137), contributes to the advisory leadership team of the Crop Protection Network, and remains active in public outreach as a panelist on Backyard Farmer on Nebraska Public Media. As Director, he is committed to building a collaborative and inclusive School culture that values both disciplines, promotes shared governance and open communication, and fosters a strong sense of belonging. His vision emphasizes advancing innovative research, teaching, and Extension to protect agricultural systems, ecosystems, and human health while contributing to food and nutrition security for Nebraska and beyond.

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.