Sara Thomas-Sharma

Sara Thomas-Sharma serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Plant Pathology & Crop Physiology at Louisiana State University's College of Agriculture, where she conducts research on plant disease epidemics affecting Louisiana field crops. Her work bridges epidemiological theory with practical disease management solutions for agricultural producers.

Her educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Plant Pathology from the University of Georgia (2006-2012)
• B.Sc. in Agriculture from the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, India (2002-2006)
• Postdoctoral research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (2015-2017)
• Postdoctoral research at Kansas State University (2013-2015)

Dr. Thomas-Sharma's research program employs epidemiology, ecology, molecular biology, and biochemistry to investigate disease development and spread, with particular emphasis on Cercospora leaf blight in soybeans. Her laboratory studies the role of metal ions in cercosporin toxin production and examines mineral nutrition as a tool for symptom reduction, addressing critical knowledge gaps for soybean growers facing significant economic losses. This work exemplifies her broader approach of integrating fundamental pathogen-host-environment interactions to develop novel management strategies.

Analysis of her publication record reveals consistent focus on seed degeneration in vegetatively-propagated crops, climate change impacts on plant diseases, and network-based approaches to pathogen mitigation. Her collaborative work spans international contexts including Ecuador and India, with increasing emphasis on translational applications for seed health systems and sustainable crop protection.

Dr. Thomas-Sharma leads an active research laboratory investigating molecular mechanisms of fungal pathogenesis in field crops, with current projects centered on soybean disease management and toxin production pathways. Her work maintains strong connections to agricultural stakeholders through the LSU AgCenter's extension mission.