The Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology welcomes Midhula Gireesh as an assistant professor and Extension entomologist at the Soil, Plant and Pest Center in Nashville, TN, on June 1, 2023.

In this role, Gireesh will develop an educational program using traditional and innovative outreach tools for diverse audiences and an applied research program focused on insect and mite pests affecting ornamental plants, nursery plants, and turf. The role also involves supporting county Extension agents and specialists, stakeholder groups, and regional and state leaders. Gireesh will also play an important role in the academic life of EPP graduate students by serving as an advisor.

Gireesh says, “I look forward to meeting with the stakeholders to identify specific integrated pest management needs. I believe in face-to-face interactions with growers and will arrange as many farm visits as possible and work closely with the county Extension agents. Also, I look forward to collaborating with many of my colleagues at the University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture.”

Since 2021, Gireesh served as a postdoctoral research associate at the University of Florida, Gulf Coast Research and Education Center. Gireesh holds a Ph.D. in entomology from the University of Georgia and is a current member of the Entomological Society of America. Additionally, Gireesh has authored or co-authored several articles in national and international entomological journals.

In her free time, she enjoys listening to music and cooking. “I am a tea person. So, I love to try and make different types of tea often.”