معرفی
James W. Buck is a Professor in the Department of Plant Pathology at the University of Georgia's College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences. He serves as Graduate Program Coordinator since August 2022 and has been with UGA since 1999, progressing from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor (2005-2016) and then to Professor (2016-present). His work is primarily based at the Griffin, CAES Campus.
Education:
- Ph.D. in Plant Pathology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1998
- M.S. in Plant Sciences, University of Western Ontario, 1992
- B.S. in Botany, Brandon University, 1990
Dr. Buck's research focuses on the biology and management of diseases affecting soybean, wheat, and ornamental plants. His key pathosystems include rust, stem canker and frogeye leaf spot of soybean; leaf rust, stripe rust and fusarium head blight of wheat; and rusts affecting ornamental plants. He collaborates closely with UGA plant breeders Drs. Zenglu Li and Mohammed Mergoum to develop high-yielding, disease-resistant soybean and wheat varieties. His work spans fundamental pathogen biology, fungicide efficacy testing, disease resistance genetics, and practical field management strategies.
Analysis of Dr. Buck's recent publications (2023-2025) shows a strong focus on molecular approaches to disease resistance, particularly through genome-wide association studies and quantitative trait loci mapping. His research spans multiple crop systems with emphasis on soybean and wheat diseases, but also extends to turfgrass and bioenergy crops like switchgrass. There's a notable integration of traditional pathology methods with modern genomic techniques, reflecting the evolution of plant pathology research.
Scientific Recognition:
- Student Career Success Influencer Award 2022 (awarded February 1, 2023)
Dr. Buck has secured significant research funding from diverse sources including commodity boards (United Soybean Board, Georgia Commodity Commission for Corn, Georgia Commodity Commission for Soybeans), agricultural corporations (BASF, Dow AgroSciences, Syngenta), and federal agencies (USDA NIFA). His sponsored projects portfolio shows consistent funding for disease management research across multiple cropping systems. As Graduate Program Coordinator, he plays a key role in mentoring graduate students in plant pathology.
Dr. Buck's research integrates closely with UGA's plant breeding programs and extension services, creating a comprehensive pipeline from fundamental research to practical field applications. His work at the Griffin campus provides critical disease management solutions for Georgia and Southeastern US agriculture.
