Raghuwinder Singh

Raghuwinder (Raj) Singh is a Professor and Director of the Plant Diagnostic Center at the Louisiana State University Agricultural Center, part of the Department of Plant Pathology and Crop Physiology. His roles include leading plant disease diagnostics, extension outreach, and managing the Plant Diagnostic Center. He holds a D.P.M. from the University of Florida, M.Sc. from the University of Reading, and B.Sc. from Punjab Agricultural University.

Research interests focus on plant pathology diagnostics, biotic/abiotic stress management, and horticultural crop diseases. He specializes in identifying and managing diseases affecting palms, citrus, ornamentals, vegetables, and turfgrass. Key areas include phytoplasma diseases, whitefly-transmitted viruses, and emerging pathogens like Rose Rosette virus.

• Education:
  • Doctor of Plant Medicine, University of Florida (2004)
  • M.Sc. Crop Protection, University of Reading (2001)
  • B.Sc. Agriculture (Hons), Punjab Agricultural University (1999)

His publications emphasize diagnostic methodologies, disease distribution studies, and management strategies for crops like cotton, soybean, and citrus. Over $251K in current grants support plant diagnostics and disease surveillance networks, while past grants totaled $893K.

He has received multiple awards including the 2020 IPM Educator Award and National Early Career Professional Award. His work extends to developing diagnostic manuals and training programs for agricultural agents and growers.

Led the Plant Diagnostic Center since 2008, managing over 20,000 plant samples annually. Active in professional societies including APS and the National Plant Diagnostic Network, he chairs key committees like the Diagnostic and Disease Detection groups.