Madalyn Shires

Madalyn Shires is an Assistant Professor and SDSU Extension Plant Pathology Specialist who manages the SDSU Plant Diagnostic Clinic. She holds a PhD in plant pathology from Texas A&M University (2020) focused on Rose Rosette Virus, and conducted postdoctoral research on virus/phytoplasmas of sweet cherries at Washington State University (2020-2022).

Her research addresses fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases of major row crops including soybeans, wheat, and corn. Specific interests include soybean cyst nematode, fungicide efficacy, disease diagnostics, and epidemiology. She leads research on rapid detection methods and disease modeling for wheat viruses and foliar diseases.

Recent publications demonstrate focus on phytoplasma diseases, viral pathogen detection, and remote sensing for disease severity estimation. She develops molecular diagnostic tools and studies pathogen diversity in agricultural systems.

Awards and Honors:

• National Association of County Agricultural Agents Achievement Award (2024)
• Search for Excellence in Crop Production National Finalist (2023)
• SDAEP First-place Fact Sheet Award (2024)
• NCAPSA Division President (2024-2025)

As Extension Specialist, she provides statewide education on row crop diseases and manages the Plant Diagnostic Clinic. She advises graduate students and secures funding from commodity groups including the South Dakota Soybean Research and Promotion Council and the South Dakota Wheat Commission.