Microbiologists in the area of Plant Pathology explore the critical role that disease-causing microbes, including viruses, bacteria, fungi and nematodes play in limiting crop production. The model of the disease triangle describes the critical interplay between host, pathogen and environmental conditions that determines the potential of crop loss in any season. Applied research focuses on detection and remediation of disease outbreaks and development of practices to limit future infections. Basic research seeks to understand the genetics and genomics of the host-pathogen interactions with the goal of identifying critical factors that could be targeted to limit disease. With the projection of 9 billion people on the planet by 2050, there will be increasingly intensive land use for crop production and increased use of sub-optimal land. The role of plant pathologists will be critical for detecting and limiting crop loss due to disease.
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