Division Plant-Environment Interactions in Field Systems [DPHY]

ISHS Elections – Chairperson – Candidates
Division Plant-Environment Interactions in Field Systems [DPHY]

[1] Dr. Stefano Musacchi (USA)

Dr. Stefano Musacchi is a Washington State University Professor of Plant Physiology with more than 30 years of experience in horticultural research. He taught for 13 years at the University of Bologna and 6 years at the University of Bolzano. Since joining WSU in 2013, he has built a strong program in tree physiology, orchard management, and fruit quality. His work improves yield, quality, and profitability in apple, pear, and cherry systems. He specializes in planting systems, rootstocks, pruning and training strategies. Additional expertise includes pollination, precision crop-load management, netting, and light interception. He has led or co-led 32 funded projects over the past 12 years. His research has attracted more than $8.5M in competitive U.S. grants. In Italy, he coordinated major pear-innovation projects and patented four pear cultivars. He has 201 publications, 225 conference presentations, and serves on the editorial boards of Agronomy. Dr. Musacchi is Chair of the ISHS Working Group Rootstock Breeding and Evaluation and Working Group European and Asian Pears.

[2] Dr. Mehdi Sharifi (Canada)

Dr. Mehdi Sharifi is a Research Scientist at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, and previously held faculty positions at Trent and Dalhousie universities. He serves as Chair of the ISHS Working Group on Plant Nutrition of Fruit Crops and has contributed extensively to the international horticultural community. His roles have included scientific committee member, invited keynote speaker, session chair, and author of multiple Acta Horticulturae papers. His expertise spans tree fruit nutrition, integrated soil nutrient management, irrigation, orchard and vineyard floor management, and resilient horticultural systems. Through his research, publications, and international service, he has built a strong profile