The Seed Science Center at Iowa State University is proud to announce that Derrick Mayfield, a Ph.D. student in Plant Pathology, has been recognized by Seed World Magazine as one of 21 Rising Seed Stars in the United States. This honor highlights Derrick's exceptional contributions to the field of plant pathology and his dedication to advancing seed health research and education.
Derrick has been an integral part of the Seed Science Center since 2013, bringing expertise, innovation, and leadership to his work. With a master’s degree in Plant Pathology and a passion for plant disease diagnostics, he has led critical advancements in the Seed and Seedling Pathology research labs and the Seed Health PCR testing lab. His efforts in developing and implementing in-house Standard Operating Procedures and protocols have greatly expanded the lab’s capabilities, enabling more comprehensive testing of plant pathogens.
Derrick’s notable achievements include introducing new PCR testing protocols for seed-borne pathogens such as pospiviroids, tobamoviruses, and High Plains wheat mosaic virus. His work has helped address urgent problems that affected the international movement of seeds and significantly increased the number of seed samples tested annually, underscoring his commitment to excellence and precision.
Beyond his research, Derrick is a dedicated mentor and educator. He takes great pride in supporting students, both current and former, as they navigate their academic and professional journeys. Derrick’s enthusiasm for teaching shines through in his role as an instructor for courses such as PLP 594L (Seed Pathology Lab) and the National Seed Health System’s (NSHS) Seed Health Testing Workshops, where he inspires others to approach plant pathology with curiosity and dedication.
“Derrick does not like to draw attention to himself but his wide range of knowledge, versatility, and willingness to help results in frequent contacts from people seeking advice, ideas, and help with solving problems. He exemplifies what it means to be a leader in the seed science community,” said Charles Block, seed health testing coordinator. “His contributions to research, mentorship, and education have left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to work with him.”
Currently, Derrick is advancing research in PCR-based seed health testing methods, continuing to strengthen the Seed Science Center’s role as a global leader in plant disease diagnostics and seed health. He was very honored with this recognition, saying, “I am very grateful for my work colleagues and mentors. They have given me so many opportunities to explore exciting areas of seed pathology, which, to me, makes the Seed Science Center at Iowa State University a very special place.”
Please join us in congratulating Derrick Mayfield on this well-deserved recognition as one of Seed World Magazine’s 21 Rising Seed Stars. His achievements reflect the mission of the Seed Science Center and underscore the bright future of plant pathology research and seed health.