Following a national search, Dr. Manoj Shukla has been named the new Department Head of Crop and Soil Science, effective December 1.
Dr. Shukla is currently a Professor of Soil Physics at New Mexico State University (NMSU), where he leads and manages the Soil Physics program. He has served as the Global Program Director for the College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences (ACES) at NMSU and as a faculty fellow of International Affairs. His extensive research background focuses on the assessment of physical, chemical, and thermal properties of soil, and the fate and transport of chemicals within soil ecosystems.
Dr. Shukla is a fellow of the Soil Science Society of America. His recognition in the scientific community has resulted in invitations to speak all over the world. He has garnered more than $20M in external research grants, written four books, and co-authored 180 refereed journal articles.
In addition to his research, Dr. Shukla has received numerous awards for excellence in teaching, including the Patricia Christmore Faculty Teaching Award and the North American College and Teachers of Agriculture Award, demonstrating a deep commitment to shaping the next generation of scientists and leaders in his field.
“Dr. Shukla’s teaching, research, and administrative experience will be pivotal as the department continues to advance its mission and expand contributions to agricultural and environmental sciences,” said Dr. Staci Simonich, Dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences at OSU. “He is a strong leader and an outstanding addition to the team, ready to guide faculty and students in developing innovative solutions for modern challenges.”
Special thanks go to Dr. Tom Chastain for his dedicated service and leadership as Department Head of Crop and Soil Sciences. His contributions have been instrumental in the department’s progress and achievements, and his commitment to faculty, students, and the department’s mission is greatly appreciated.
Dr. Shukla’s leadership marks an exciting new chapter for the Department of Crop and Soil Science, which looks forward to continued excellence in research, teaching, and outreach.