University of Arkansas names head of entomology, plant pathology

Ken Korth, a professor recognized as an outstanding mentor and researcher, has been appointed head of a new University of Arkansas department that combines the disciplines of Entomology and Plant Pathology.

One of Korth’s first missions will be student recruitment.

“I am excited by this opportunity to take on new challenges,” said Korth, who is a professor of Plant Pathology. “We have outstanding faculty and staff in both departments, working in extension, teaching and research.

“I look forward to continue working with them as we strive to support agriculture and food production statewide and nationally,” he said in a news release from the university. “Entomology and Plant Pathology are key disciplines for both plant and animal health, and so it is vital that we maintain strength in these areas and the educational and research programs that support them.”

A Nebraska native, Korth received his PhD in genetics in 1992 from North Carolina State University. He worked as a post-doc scientist and later as a senior research associate for the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation. He joined the faculty in Arkansas as an assistant professor in 1999. He was promoted to professor in 2009.

– Mary Hightower, The Cooperative Extension Service U of A System Division of Agriculture