OAC and Ridgetown Campus Add New Field Crop Pathology Expertise

U of G’s Ridgetown Campus has added a world-class field crop pathologist to its teaching and research repertoire. Leading pathologist, Dr. Gursahib Singh is Ridgetown’s new Grain Farmers of Ontario Professorship in Field Crop Pathology. Dr. Singh joins the University of Guelph from Irrigation Saskatchewan (formerly ICDC) where he served as Research Director.

The new position is supported by a $2-million gift from the Grain Farmers of Ontario.

After completing his PhD from the University of Saskatchewan in 2021, Singh managed over 100 research trails on crop protection, agronomy, precision agriculture, soil nutrient dynamics, genotype screening, and evaluation under dryland and irrigation conditions while at the ICDC.

“My research endeavors encompass a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to tackle the pressing challenges faced by Ontario farmers in managing crop diseases,” says Singh. 

“With a keen eye on long-term solutions and a firm dedication to advancing agricultural practices, my research program seeks to bolster the resilience and productivity of Canadian agriculture.” Dr. Singh.

Singh is currently involved in wheat resistance breeding research at the University of Saskatchewan, primarily focusing on combating pathogens and identifying resistant sources.

“I look forward to establishing a comprehensive program to regularly screen wheat germplasm for diseases in collaboration with experts at Ridgetown and OAC,” adds Singh.

“We’re excited for Dr. Singh to join Ridgetown and excel in this new role,” says Brett Shepherd, Director of the Ridgetown Campus. “He will play a leading role in inspiring future agricultural leaders and conducting groundbreaking research to inform Ontario’s agriculture sector.”

“Investing in the future of grain farming in Ontario through research is one of our key strategies. We were able to help fund this position with a $2 million gift from the Grain Farmers of Ontario Legacy Fund. Grain Farmers of Ontario is proud to partner with the University of Guelph and we welcome Dr. Singh to our community,” said Jeff Harrison, Chair, Grain Farmers of Ontario. “Dr. Singh brings his extensive experience in a wide array of field crop research and we look forward to working together.”

Singh’s teaching philosophy is rooted in the teacher-student model. “This approach forms the foundation for my lectures and teaching style,” adds Singh. “I believe in integrating my research into the classroom, presenting real-world examples that connect the concepts of the subject to practical applications.”