Sindhuja Sankaran

Dr. Sindhuja Sankaran is a Professor in the Department of Biological Systems Engineering at Washington State University (WSU), affiliated with the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS). She holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering from North Dakota State University, alongside advanced degrees in Environmental Engineering and Environmental Science. Her research focuses on sensor technologies for crop phenotyping, leveraging opto-electronic, biological, and chemical sensors to monitor plant responses to environmental stresses and support precision agriculture. She leads projects in agricultural automation, proximal/remote sensing (UAVs and satellites), and molecular phenotyping using biosensors.

Dr. Sankaran’s academic journey includes roles as an Assistant Professor (2013–2019), Associate Professor (2019–2025), and currently Professor (2025–present). She has held adjunct and postdoctoral positions at institutions like Polk State College and the University of Florida. Her honors include the ISHS Medal (2022), Early Career Excellence Award from CAHNRS (2022), and recognition as an Outstanding Associate Editor in multiple journals.

Her research has been featured in Nature Magazine, WSU Insider, and ASABE Resource Magazine, with grants supporting projects like phenomics data management and undergraduate research initiatives. She collaborates widely, contributing to global efforts in crop improvement and sustainable agriculture. Her lab is located in Vogel Hall, Pullman, WA.