Arborjet, a leader in plant health has recently hired a plant pathologist and microbiologist, specializing in tree pests and diseases. Dr. Ploy Kurdmongkoltham has an M.S. in Plant Biology from Jacksonville State University and DPM (Doctor of Plant Medicine) from the University of Florida. Arborjet plans to incorporate her skills and expertise to solidify its position as top researchers and experts in the industry.
Kurdmongkoltham has vast experience working on row crop pests and diseases, as well as foodborne pathogens. Her experience in extension work includes leading and coordinating Florida First Detector workshops, teaching growers, Master Gardeners, and the public on identifying tree pests and diseases.
“At Arborjet, her work will be hands on, including, training and conducting educational webinars. She will be working to identify and isolate pure cultures of fungal and bacterial plant pathogens, and conduct in-vitro efficacy trials along with other in-house entomology studies that will help us immensely with our studies,” said Joe Doccola, Director of Research and Development. For 20 years, Doccola has developed research methods for Arborjet technology and has established cooperative studies with universities, the USFS and private entities in efforts to manage invasive and destructive tree pests.
“I’ve always wanted to work in research and development ever since I started my masters. Being in the lab is a second home to me, said Kurdmongkoltham. I am excited to be working with the entomologists at Arborjet to hopefully aid in discoveries that will help their arborists and regional training managers preserve urban forests, by eradicating invasive species and diseases across the country.”
About: Arborjet technology was developed in 2000 by arborists, for arborists, in order to effectively manage and control exotic and native insects and diseases threatening natural and urban forests. Today, Arborjet is the leading plant health care company focused on providing the most effective formulations and delivery systems to protect trees, shrubs, and plants from a wide variety of insect, disease, and nutritional concerns. As premier solutions providers, they are committed to advancing the industries they serve through thought leadership, product and technology development, scientific research, and exceptional customer service.
