Harold A. Richards

Harold A. Richards is a Research Assistant Professor in the Tickle College of Engineering at the University of Tennessee, with a focus on Industrial and Systems Engineering. His interdisciplinary research bridges plant biotechnology, food safety, and graduate education program development.

• Education: PhD in Nutrition Science and Biotechnology (UNC Greensboro, 2002), MS in Life Sciences (University of Tennessee, 1998), BS in Botany and Environmental Science (Miami University, 1995).

Research Interests: Genetic characterization of pathogens, plant biotechnology, food safety risk assessment, interdisciplinary training program design, and science communication. He has led NSF-funded initiatives like SCALE-IT 20/20 and CERCLE, focusing on computational biology and energy science training.

Professional Contributions: Directed a startup commercializing UT agricultural IP, mentored 24 PhD students, and developed mentorship programs for underrepresented minorities. His work spans microbiology, biotech policy, and data-enabled materials design.

Publications: Key areas include pathogen genomics, transgenic plant safety, and agricultural biosafety. Notable journals: Foodborne Pathogens and Disease, Journal of Food Protection, Plant Cell Reports.