Sydney Everhart

Sydney Everhart is an Associate Professor and Department Head in the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture at the University of Connecticut. She holds a PhD in Plant Pathology from the University of Georgia (2012), an MS in Biology (Ecology) from the University of Central Missouri (2007), and a BS in Biology from the University of Iowa (2005). Her research focuses on fungal plant pathogens, particularly their molecular biology, epidemiology, and management strategies in agricultural systems. She leads a lab investigating pathogens like Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Rhizoctonia solani, and Alternaria brassicicola, with an emphasis on fungicide resistance and disease control.

Everhart has secured over $6M in grants as PI/co-PI and published over 20 papers in high-impact journals. She teaches a graduate course on professional development (Success in the Sciences) and advises four graduate students (3 PhD, 1 MS). Her administrative role as Department Head ensures faculty, staff, and student success across teaching, research, and Extension missions. Her lab collaborates widely, with projects funded by USDA, state soybean boards, and international partners.

Recent research highlights include studies on fungicide sensitivity of Sclerotinia and Rhizoctonia isolates, population genetics of plant pathogens, and leadership development in agricultural sciences. She has mentored postdocs and undergraduate researchers, contributing to both scientific innovation and STEM workforce training.