Rick Brandenburg

An authority in the field of pest management, Dr. Rick Brandenburg serves as the Wm. Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at North Carolina State University. With a career spanning over three decades, Dr. Brandenburg has made significant contributions to the understanding and management of pest-related challenges in turf and peanut cultivation. His research delves into the ecology of mole crickets, the management of various insect pests, and the development of predictive models to enhance pest control strategies. Dr. Brandenburg is deeply committed to education, teaching courses on turfgrass pest management and extension entomology. His dedication to teaching is matched by his active involvement in international development, notably through his participation in the USAID Peanut CRSP program in West Africa. This program aims to improve peanut production and pest management practices, thereby enhancing food security and agricultural sustainability in the region. In addition to his teaching and research, Dr. Brandenburg has been instrumental in collaborative turfgrass research programs, working alongside other experts to advance the field. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, as he has received numerous awards recognizing his contributions to pest management and agricultural sciences. Dr. Brandenburg's work is characterized by a holistic approach that integrates ecological principles with practical pest management solutions. His research not only addresses immediate pest control needs but also contributes to the long-term sustainability of agricultural ecosystems. Through his extensive experience and innovative research, Dr. Brandenburg continues to influence the field of pest management, providing valuable insights and solutions to both local and global agricultural challenges.