Gary M. Pierzynski

Gary M. Pierzynski is a University Distinguished Professor in the Department of Agronomy at Kansas State University (K-State). He served as Department Head from 2006–2010 and 2012–2018, and later as Associate Dean for Research and Graduate Education at The Ohio State University. His academic leadership includes roles as Interim Dean/Director of the College of Agriculture/K-State Research and Extension (2010–2012). Pierzynski earned a B.S. from Michigan State University, M.S. in Environmental Chemistry, and a Ph.D. in Soil Chemistry from The Ohio State University.

His research focuses on soil chemistry, environmental quality, and sustainable agricultural practices. He authored over 85 peer-reviewed articles and a textbook, Soils and Environmental Quality, and advised over 20 graduate students. Key achievements include doubling undergraduate enrollment in Agronomy, enhancing graduate stipends, and establishing the Agronomy Education Center.

Awarded numerous honors, Pierzynski is a Fellow of the American Society of Agronomy and Soil Science Society of America. He served as Editor of the Journal of Environmental Quality and on the UN FAO’s Intergovernmental Technical Panel on Soils. His leadership spans national and international scientific organizations, including presidential roles in major agronomic societies.

• Key Contributions: Curriculum expansion, graduate student support, and infrastructure development.
• Grants & Funding: Secured funding for the Agronomy Education Center and advisory board establishment.
• Labs/Teams: Active in soil and environmental research groups at K-State and Ohio State.