Purdue trustees appoint Johnson to crop sciences endowed chair

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — In its June meeting, the Purdue University Board of Trustees approved the appointment of William Johnson, professor of weed science in the botany and plant pathology department, to the position of the Corteva AgriScience Henry A. Wallace Chair in Crop Sciences.

In nominating Johnson for the position, Bernie Engel, the Glenn W. Sample Dean of Agriculture, wrote: “Dr. Johnson’s cutting-edge research, with a specific focus on addressing the needs of farmers in Indiana and neighboring states, coupled with his impactful mentorship of both graduate and undergraduate students positions him as an excellent fit for this esteemed chair.”

Ron Turco, associate dean for research and graduate education, praised Johnson’s scholarly impact: “Dr. Johnson’s exceptional record in weed management, especially in corn and soybeans, has garnered national and international recognition. His innovative research, published in top-tier journals and supported by numerous grants, reflects his commitment to advancing the field.”

Johnson, who joined the Purdue faculty in 2002, focuses on researching weed management that directly impacts crop productivity, resilience and quality; reduces environmental impacts; and enhances food security.

“I am very honored to receive this recognition for my work on the war against weeds,” Johnson said. “I am a true believer in the land-grant mission of extending our cutting-edge research results to the ultimate end user of our information — the Indiana farmer and their farming operations. This chair will allow me to continue to do my work on finding the most economical, efficacious and environmentally sound approaches involving herbicides, nonchemical control methods and the use of new technology to minimize the impact of weeds on crop yields and productivity.”

The Corteva AgriScience Henry A. Wallace Chair in Crop Sciences supports a faculty member who applies modern technology to crop science. Corteva Agriscience provided the gift funds for this position in 2018 that were matched by the anonymous donor who established the College of Agriculture Endowed Chair Challenge Matching Gift Program.

About Purdue University

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