Kranthi Mandadi named director of Texas A&M AgriLife center at Weslaco
Appointment strengthens research, extension, industry partnerships in Rio Grande Valley
Kranthi Mandadi, Ph.D., has been named director of the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Weslaco, effective June 1.
Mandadi is a Texas A&M AgriLife Research plant pathologist and professor in the Texas A&M Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology. He has served at the center for over a decade, contributing leadership and research excellence, including major impacts to citrus research.
In his new capacity, Mandadi will oversee the administration of the center and its associated research properties while continuing to lead research. He will supervise all center operations, coordinating scientific teams to secure extramural funding, and advancing the strategic goals of both the center and the agency. He is specifically tasked with fostering a culture of shared governance and establishing an external advisory committee to provide industry-driven guidance for the region.
Professional roots in Weslaco
“We are excited about Dr. Mandadi expanding his role in Weslaco as center director,” said G. Cliff Lamb, Ph.D., director of AgriLife Research. “His extensive history with the Weslaco center and his commitment to addressing regional needs through innovative research make him the ideal leader to supervise and coordinate all aspects of the center’s operations.”
Mandadi’s deep-rooted background in the Rio Grande Valley and Weslaco began in 2003 as a graduate student in the Citrus Center at Texas A&M University-Kingsville. Subsequently, he pursued his doctorate at Texas A&M University. Mandadi returned to AgriLife Research in Weslaco in 2015 as an assistant professor. There he earned promotions to associate professor in 2020 and professor in 2024.
Professionally, he is recognized for his leadership as the project director for a U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture, USDA-NIFA, Center of Excellence focusing on citrus diseases.
His past professional experience is marked by scientific achievement and grantsmanship. Mandadi has secured or co-led competitive grants totaling over $54 million, with more than $11 million directly supporting his own research programs in crop improvement and biotechnology. He has authored 75 peer-reviewed publications and led a portfolio of 27 innovations, patents and invention disclosures focused on combating devastating plant diseases like citrus greening and potato zebra chip.
The future in Weslaco and South Texas
“My ongoing efforts are focused on translating research innovations into practical solutions for producers,” Mandadi said. “I look forward to strengthening partnerships among researchers, industry and regulatory agencies to support the mission of advancing sustainable production and economic resilience in South Texas.”
His leadership also extends to mentorship, having supervised over 70 researchers, including postdocs and students, many of whom have transitioned into vital roles within federal agencies and the agricultural industry.
“Dr. Mandadi’s appointment as center director marks our continued investment in the Rio Grande Valley, coinciding with planned infrastructure improvements and the future expansion of faculty positions focused on biosecurity and food systems,” Lamb said.
