By Scout Nelson
Dr. Gazala Ameen, assistant professor at South Dakota State University (SDSU), wins the 2025 Early Career Award from the American Phytopathological Society’s North Central Division. The award honors her outstanding contributions to plant pathology research, teaching, and community service within the first decade of her career.
Since joining SDSU in 2021, Ameen leads research focused on the molecular study of plant-pathogen interactions. She works with students and partners to develop disease management strategies and early detection tools that benefit Midwest farmers. Her efforts aim to support sustainable agriculture and help reduce reliance on chemical treatments.
SDSU leaders, including Joe Cassady, dean of the College of Agriculture, recognize Ameen’s dedication and success. Ameen credits the university’s strong support, guidance from mentors, and research resources for helping her achieve research goals alongside her students and collaborators.
Beyond research, Ameen teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in plant pathology, sharing her knowledge on topics like disease resistance genetics. She mentors students through hands-on research, many of whom now work in industry or continue their studies.
Ameen, a graduate of North Dakota State University, built her career studying plant immunity, including her Ph.D. work on resistance genes in barley and her master’s research on fungal sensitivity.
Looking ahead, Ameen hopes her research will support the development of disease-resistant crops, contributing to environmental care and sustainable farming.
Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, Education