Ruying (Wrennie) Wang

Ruying (Wrennie) Wang

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Joe Vargas Professorship in Turfgrass Pathology - Assistant Professor
Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences

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Degrees:
Ph.D., Rutgers University, 2019
M.S., Rutgers University, 2015
B.S., Michigan State University, 2011

Dr. Wang joined Michigan State University in 2025 as the Joe Vargas endowed turfgrass pathologist. Prior to joining Michigan State University, Dr. Wang conducted research at Oregon State University and Rutgers University, where she developed expertise in turfgrass pathology and management. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree studying turfgrass management at Michigan State University and conducted an internship with Dr. Vargas and the turfgrass pathology team. Her publication record includes studies on disease resistance, drought stress responses, mowing management, irrigation effects, and turfgrass-endophyte symbiotic interactions.

Dr. Wang’s research program addresses key challenges in turfgrass health by studying important turfgrass diseases and stress interactions, including fungal pathogens, endophyte-mediated disease resistance, drought-related disease dynamics, and management strategies affecting turf quality and persistence. Her work integrates molecular biology, disease physiology, and field-based turfgrass management. Her current research interests include:

  • Fungicide resistance
  • Host resistance
  • Best management practices
  • Molecular pathogen detection
  • Beneficial organisms
  • Alternatives to conventional fungicides

Dr. Wang’s research and Extension program focuses on developing science-based solutions that address the diverse needs of the turfgrass industry. She has worked across a wide range of turfgrass systems, from high-performance golf course turf that requires precision disease management to low-input sustainable lawns. Through research, Extension, and industry collaboration, her goal is to improve disease management, resource-use efficiency, and long-term sustainability while providing practical management strategies for turf professionals. Dr. Wang holds a 50% Extension, 30% research, 15% teaching, and 5% service appointment in the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences.