Congratulations to Dr. Derrick Grunwald, who has accepted a tenure-track Assistant Professor position at Texas A&M in the Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, starting this July. 
In his new role as an Assistant Professor, Derrick’s roles and responsibilities will include building world-class research and teaching programs in plant pathology, microbial forensics, and biosecurity. As Derrick explains, “I plan to initiate research relevant to agricultural biosecurity, including but not limited to (1) developing detection tools for emergent pests and pathogens for use by both grower-cooperators and laboratory personnel, (2) understanding life histories and potential intervention points for major agricultural pests, and (3) initiating surveillance networks across the region to monitor changing pest and pathogen populations. I plan to leverage my experience in developing diagnostic tools (see Grunwald et al. 2023, 2024) and survey data (see Stroschein and Grunwald et al. 2025) to lay a strong foundation for success in this role. ” Those interested in contacting Derrick about work conducted within the Ellison Lab or for future research opportunities may contact him at: Grunwald65@gmail.com
Derrick has been in the Ellison Lab since 2022, contributing to numerous research publications as well as the development of several diagnostic tools for hemp pathogens. Derrick is a very skilled research pathologist and while we will miss having him around due to his sense of humor and wealth of knowledge, we can’t be more excited for him to begin developing his own research lab.
Very well deserved and best of luck, Derrick!