Mary Hausbeck

Mary Hausbeck is a University Distinguished Professor and Extension Specialist in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences at Michigan State University (MSU). She holds a Ph.D. from The Pennsylvania State University and B.S./M.S. degrees from MSU. Her roles include Associate Chairperson and leadership in extension programs focused on vegetable and greenhouse ornamental pathology.

Her research emphasizes disease management strategies for crops like cucurbits, onions, carrots, and hops, with a focus on Phytophthora species and downy mildew pathogens. She develops integrated approaches combining fungicide efficacy testing, disease forecasting models (e.g., TOMCAST), and host resistance to reduce reliance on chemical inputs. Key projects include managing Phytophthora capsici in cucurbits and understanding age-related plant resistance mechanisms.

Dr. Hausbeck’s extension work disseminates findings via conferences (e.g., Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market Expo) and publications (e.g., Plant Disease Management Reports). She collaborates on molecular diagnostics, spore trapping systems, and genetic analyses of pathogens like Pseudoperonospora cubensis and Botrytis cinerea. Her lab’s work addresses emerging diseases such as hop downy mildew and rhizomania in beets.

Her grants and collaborations span USDA-funded projects on cucurbit pathology and MSU Extension initiatives. She advises students on plant disease research and mentors teams tackling complex agricultural challenges, emphasizing sustainability and grower education.