Alan Dyer

Alan Dyer is a Professor in the Department of Plant Sciences & Plant Pathology within the College of Agriculture at Montana State University. His research and teaching focus on plant pathology, particularly root, seed, and seedling diseases, as well as the ecology and evolution of pathogens.

His educational background includes a B.S. from Cornell University (1989), and M.S. and Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities (1999 and 2002, respectively).

Dr. Dyer's research interests center on the community ecology and evolution of root pathogens. He investigates the dynamics of soil-borne pathogens affecting crops such as wheat and sugar beet, with a particular emphasis on Fusarium crown rot, root lesion nematodes, and other seed and root diseases. His work integrates molecular tools and ecological approaches to understand pathogen survival, spread, and management.

His publication record from 1991-2017 reveals consistent focus on agricultural pathogen diagnostics and management, with recurring themes in molecular detection methods, disease resistance evolution, and integrated pest management for cereal crops and sugar beet. Key methodological approaches include qPCR applications and histological analysis.

Dr. Dyer has been recognized with several nominations for teaching and advising excellence at Montana State University, including:

• Nominated for Academic Advising (2020)
• Nominated for Academic Advising (2019)
• Nominated for President's Excellence in Teaching Award (2015)

He currently leads multiple research initiatives funded by USDA NIFA, Montana Wheat & Barley Committee, and NSF addressing crown rot complex virulence, rhizosphere microbiome interactions, and seedborne pathogen management. His extension work includes developing practical seed treatment guides and participating in industry outreach events across Montana.