LSU AgCenter plant pathologist Ray Schneider displays the American Phytopathological Society’s Southern Division Outstanding Plant Pathologist Award he received at the society’s annual meeting in Atlanta, Georgia, on Feb. 2. (Photo by Robert Carver)

News Release Distributed 02/10/15

BATON ROUGE, La. – LSU AgCenter plant pathologist Raymond Schneider received the American Phytopathological Society’s Southern Division Outstanding Plant Pathologist Award at its annual meeting in Atlanta, Georgia, on Feb. 2.

The award is given to a member for outstanding contributions to plant pathology.

Schneider has been involved in diseases management strategies for soybeans for much of his 40-year career. He was the first person in North America to find Asian soybean rust in 2004.

“I like to think our work has benefitted the soybean industry regarding disease management options. As a plant pathologist, I am a firm believer in mission-oriented research in which we conduct fundamental research on applied problems,” Schneider said.

Schneider said he believes the relationship between plant nutrition and disease to be the next battleground in combating plant diseases, and he and his graduate students are devoting much of their research in this area. This type of research also serves as good preparation for his students.

“We have a nationwide reputation for conducting mission-oriented research. Our students are sought after because they have the thought process and a strong overview of the research process,” he said.

Schneider also was recognized for his work in pathogen physiology and genetics as well as new strategies in cultural, chemical and biological control of diseases.

Craig Gautreaux