Plant pathologist with 20+ years of experience working with regulated viral, fungal, and bacterial pathosystems. Expertise in genomics, functional genetics, and molecular diagnostics. Ten years of experience in the Federal Government and regulatory affairs. Established the first genomics laboratory in the USDA-APHIS-PPQ as an improved tool for identifying quarantine and novel pathogens that can potentially harm U.S. agriculture. Established multiple collaborations with international counterparts to strengthen USDA emergency response preparedness to identify emergent pathogens. Served as Branch Chief at the USDA-APHIS Biotechnology Regulatory Services, where I assessed the potential plant pest risk and environmental impacts of genetically engineered plant pathogens and microbes on the human environment. As the Director of Seed Health & Trade at ASTA, I serve as the lead scientific and policy expert for ASTA’s nearly 700 members/companies on phytosanitary issues impacting the global movement of seed in a wide range of economically important species, including row crops, vegetables, flowers, forages, and grasses.