Scot Hulbert

Scot Hulbert serves as the Acting Dean and Interim Associate Dean for Research at Washington State University's College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS). A Professor specializing in Plant Pathology and Genetics, his research focuses on molecular mechanisms of disease resistance in cereal crops and sustainable agricultural systems.

His academic credentials include:

• B.S. in Horticulture from Washington State University (1980)
• M.S. in Vegetable Crops from University of California, Davis (1982)
• Ph.D. in Genetics Research from University of California, Davis (1987)

Hulbert's research program investigates genetic and molecular bases of race-specific and non-specific resistance in cereals, pathogen evolution (particularly rust fungi), and conservation-oriented cropping systems. His work bridges molecular plant-microbe interactions with field-level agricultural practices, emphasizing durable disease resistance and soil health management.

Analysis of his 2017-2019 publications reveals dominant themes in wheat/barley rust genomics, soil microbiome responses to agricultural practices (tillage/glyphosate), and host-pathogen coevolution. The research consistently integrates molecular techniques with field studies to address crop protection challenges.

Hulbert's scientific recognition includes:

• Fellow of the American Society of Phytopathology (2002)
• Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (2005)

While currently not accepting new graduate students due to administrative responsibilities, Hulbert has historically mentored researchers in plant pathology. As head of CAHNRS Research, he oversees Washington State's agricultural research infrastructure including Mount Vernon NWREC, Prosser IAREC, and Puyallup Research & Extension Center, coordinating programs across crop sciences, entomology, and sustainable agriculture.