Nematology

Subject abbreviation: NEM College of Natural and Agricultural Sciences

Isgouhi Kaloshian, Ph.D., Chair Department Office, 2317 Webber Hall

• (951) 827-5835

nematology.ucr.edu

Professor Isgouhi Kaloshian, Ph.D.

Professors Emeriti James G. Baldwin, Ph.D. Edward G. Platzer, Ph.D. (Nematology/Biology) Philip A. Roberts, Ph.D.

Associate Professors Adler R. Dillman, Ph.D. Paul De Ley, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor Simon/Niles Groen, Ph.D.

Professors of Cooperative Extension J. Ole Becker, Ph.D. Antoon T. Ploeg, Ph.D. Andreas Westphal, Ph.D. Affiliated Faculty Michael V. McKenry, Ph.D. (Emeritus)

Cooperating Faculty Morris F. Maduro, Ph.D. (Molecular, Cell, and Systems Biology) Meera G. Nair, Ph.D. (Biomedical Sciences)

Nematology is the study of roundworms, the most genetically diverse invertebrate phylum that occurs worldwide in virtually every envi- ronment. Only about 3 percent of all species have been studied or identified, and these in- clude significant parasites of humans, animals, and plants. A primary mission of the Depart- ment of Nematology is to develop environ- mentally sound approaches to manage nema- todes that worldwide cause nearly $100 billion annual damage to crops. Other objectives are to use nematodes that benefit agriculture and the environment as agents of nutrient cycling and soil fertility and for biological control of some insect pests. Additional objectives focus on nematodes as fundamental models for addressing basic biological questions in genet- ics, development, and molecular biology. The department offers graduate and postgraduate opportunities in biocontrol, ecology, genetics, molecular biology, physiology, and systematics. It offers specific expertise in applied nem- atode problems of subtropical and desert agriculture.

A graduate program in Nematology is offered within a broad biological context. Students are enrolled in a more general department or interdepartmental program that provides a core of graduate courses. The general depart- ments may include Botany and Plant Sciences, Entomology, Evolution, Ecology, and Organis- mal Biology, Microbiology and Plant Pathology, and Environmental Sciences as well as a wide range of interdepartmental programs. Disserta- tion research opportunities, major research professor, curriculum advisor, and specific courses are provided by the Department of Nematology to complement requirements of the more general department or program.