Strengthening global biosecurity

Whether tackling the next plant disease outbreak or training the next generation of scientists, James Stack, university distinguished professor of plant pathology in the College of Agriculture, has built his career on strengthening global biosecurity.

That commitment is now recognized with his appointment to Kansas State University’s Biosecurity Research Institute endowed professorships, joining fellow researchers Barbara Valent and Jürgen Richt.

Stack's appointment positions him to expand work at the BRI's biosafety level-3 facilities, where cross-disciplinary collaboration accelerates the translation of discoveries into practical tools for protecting crops, livestock and communities. The endowed professorships were established to support faculty who devote a substantial portion of their scholarly effort to BRI activities and who demonstrate global impact in their fields.

"Endowed professorships like this accelerate collaboration, innovation and real-world impact," said Hans Coetzee, vice president for research. "Dr. Stack embodies the curiosity, rigor and leadership we seek in this program, and his work reflects what distinguishes K-State as a next-generation land-grant institution."

Stack's research centers on pathogen emergence and resilient strategies to safeguard food systems. By integrating molecular biology, epidemiology and field studies, his work aims to anticipate, detect and mitigate outbreaks before they take hold.

The BRI appointment will support expanded grant-funded projects, new collaborations and enhanced training opportunities for graduate and postdoctoral researchers.

"In a world where pathogens cross borders and threaten food security, we need researchers who can translate lab breakthroughs into actions that farmers, veterinarians and policymakers can implement," Stack said. "This professorship provides the platform to deepen our understanding of high-consequence pathogens, continue training young professionals with the capabilities to mitigate increasing threats, and to develop proactive defenses that keep crop systems productive and communities safer."

The BRI's facilities — including high-containment laboratories and collaborative spaces — enable Stack to pursue work that once would have been possible only at a handful of institutions. The professorships underscore K-State's ongoing commitment to biosecurity, biodefense and resilience in the face of evolving threats.

The Biosecurity Research Institute at Pat Roberts Hall remains a national leader in biodefense research, supporting studies that address plant, animal and human health threats. Stack's work will contribute to a broader portfolio aimed at preventing disease emergence and strengthening the security of critical food supply chains.