Agricultural biosecurity scientist joins Texas A&M AgriLife Research
Grunwald's research program will strengthen diagnostics, disease surveillance and biosecurity
Derrick Grunwald, Ph.D., joined the Texas A&M Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology as an assistant professor and Texas A&M AgriLife Research scientist on Aug. 1, bringing expertise in microbial forensics and agricultural biosecurity.
Grunwald’s research program will focus on protecting Texas agriculture from emerging biological threats by developing science-based approaches to detect, identify and respond to pests and pathogens. His work will support producers through improved diagnostics, disease surveillance and biosecurity strategies across a broad range of agricultural systems.
Building an agricultural biosecurity research program
“What attracted me to Texas A&M AgriLife was the opportunity to build a research program around agricultural biosecurity instead of focusing on a single crop,” Grunwald said. “The position gives me the flexibility to pursue research that addresses the needs of Texas agriculture while exploring new directions that align with those needs.”
Before joining Texas A&M AgriLife, Grunwald served as a scientist and postdoctoral researcher at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he developed molecular diagnostic tools and disease surveillance methods for fungal and viral pathogens affecting hemp, iris and other crops.
His research has been supported by the National Science Foundation; the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture, USDA-NIFA; the National Institutes of Health and other competitive funding programs.
Grunwald earned his doctorate in microbial biology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and his bachelor’s degree in microbial biology from the University of California, Berkeley. His research and training have included plant pathology, microbiology, molecular biology, disease diagnostics and nematology.
Grunwald said he hopes to become a trusted resource for producers and commodity groups across Texas by helping them respond to evolving biosecurity challenges.
“I want to build relationships with producers and commodity groups so they know they have someone they can turn to when biosecurity issues arise,” he said. “Whether it’s responding to emerging pests and pathogens or addressing phytosanitary challenges that affect market access, I want to develop science-based solutions that help protect Texas agriculture.”
Opportunity to mentor students
In addition to leading a research program, Grunwald looks forward to mentoring students and contributing to teaching within the department. He hopes to support existing courses while eventually developing new educational opportunities that reflect emerging areas of agriculture.
“I’m excited to work with students and contribute to teaching,” he said. “As my program grows, I’d like to help develop courses in areas such as hemp production while bringing my background in nematology and plant pathology to the department.”
Grunwald said the collaborative culture at Texas A&M AgriLife was another factor that drew him to the university.
“One of the things that has stood out to me is the sense of community,” he said. “I’ve gotten the impression that people genuinely want to help one another succeed, and I’m looking forward to being part of a collaborative teaching, research and Extension community while getting to know people across Texas agriculture.”
