Dr. Jocelyn Smith now entomology prof at Ridgetown Campus

Dr. Jocelyn Smith is Ridgetown’s new Assistant Professor in Field Crop Entomology.

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The University of Guelph said in a release that Smith will continue to be based out of the Ridgetown Campus, where she has been working as a research scientist since 2019. Smith brings over 15 years of experience in pest and insect resistance management (IRM) for crops and in managing large, internationally recognized field and laboratory research programs.

Through her research, she has partnered with notable organizations such as Grain Farmers of Ontario, OMAFRA, AAFC, Bayer CropScience, Syngenta, Corteva and BASF, the U of G release said.

“I have been a part of the Ridgetown Campus for many years, but I am excited to begin this new chapter of my career,” said Smith. “I hope to make an even greater impact on Ontario agriculture through both research and teaching in field crop entomology.”

Smith will teach in Ridgetown’s associate diploma programs and conduct research that contributes to addressing agricultural needs for integrated pest management solutions and the impacts of climate change, sustainable agroecosystems, and food security, the university said.

“We’re excited for Dr. Smith to excel in this new role,” said Brett Shepherd, director of the Ridgetown Campus. “She will play a leading role in connecting with Ontario’s agriculture sector on their pest management and crop production needs and help train the next generation of leaders.”

The university said Smith is a renowned and passionate teacher and researcher in entomology, and learned under the tutelage of Dr. Art Schaasfma, a former professor at Ridgetown Campus. In 2023, Smith won the University of Guelph Faculty Association’s Award for Excellence in Teaching.

“I really enjoy interacting with students from different backgrounds who are passionate about starting their career in agriculture,” says Dr. Smith. “I believe it is crucial for those going into the industry to understand the importance of sustainable, responsible, integrated pest management and insect resistance management.”

In the coming months, Ridgetown is expected to announce a new faculty hire in plant pathology.