Ayman M Mostafa

Ayman M Mostafa is a University of Arizona faculty member serving as Director of the Center for Urban Smart Agriculture (UACUSA) and a Regional Specialist in Entomology for Maricopa Cooperative Extension. He holds a Ph.D. in Entomology from the University of Manitoba. His work focuses on integrated pest management (IPM), urban agriculture, and sustainable crop production, particularly in alfalfa and forage systems.

Education:

• Ph.D. Entomology, University of Manitoba, Canada (Focus: Plant Bugs on Buckwheat and Alfalfa)

Research Interests:

• Alfalfa pest management, including weevils and aphids
• IPM strategy development for low desert crops
• Bee health and community pollinator management
• Urban agriculture needs and extension programs
• Fertilizer optimization for forage crops

His research emphasizes economically viable pest control methods, pesticide resistance monitoring, and sustainable practices for small-scale and urban farmers.

Awards:

• 2025 University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Faculty of the Year Award
• 2023 Distinguished Achievement in Extension Award (ESA Pacific Branch)
• 2022 Distinguished Service Award (NACAA)

Grants & Advising: Leads programs addressing urban farming challenges, including the Small-Scale and Beginner Farmer Initiative. Collaborates on projects funded by USDA-NRCS and Arizona Department of Agriculture.

Labs/Teams: Directs UACUSA, a hub for urban agriculture research and outreach, and coordinates with the Arizona Pest Management Center.