Nathan Walker

Nathan Walker is a Professor in the Department of Entomology & Plant Pathology at Oklahoma State University (OSU), where he also serves as an Extension Specialist for Turf Disease and Pest Diagnosis. He holds a PhD in Plant Science and Agronomy from the University of Arkansas, an MS from Clemson University, and a BS from Bloomsburg University. His research focuses on integrated management of turfgrass pests, including nematodes, insects, and diseases like Spring Dead Spot and fungal biodiversity in native prairie grasses. He teaches courses such as Turfgrass Integrated Pest Management and Plant Nematology. His work combines field research, molecular diagnostics, and extension outreach to address agricultural challenges in Oklahoma and beyond.

Research Interests:

• Biological control of turfgrass pests
• Pathogen epidemiology and management (e.g., Ophiosphaerella spp., Sclerotinia homoeocarpa)
• Chemical hormesis in plant pathogens
• Weather-based disease prediction systems
• Nematode ecology in agricultural soils

Recent Article Trends: His publications emphasize advancements in Spring Dead Spot management, phytoplasma diagnostics in chrysanthemums, and genomic studies of turfgrass pathogens. He also explores surgical curriculum design and training practices in medical education, reflecting interdisciplinary contributions.

Grants & Partnerships: His research has been supported by collaborations with OSU's Plant Disease and Insect Diagnostic Laboratory and the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service. He has advised numerous graduate students and contributed to extension publications on pest management strategies.