Research Technician
Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology
1575 Varsity Drive – Module 6
Campus Box 7616
Raleigh, NC 27606
Email: drfreund@ncsu.edu
Education
BS: North Carolina State University
MS: North Carolina State University
Daniel is a Raleigh local with previous experience working on golf courses. Daniel received his BS in Turfgrass Management from NC State University, before joining the Wolfpack to pursue an MS, co-majoring in Plant Pathology and Crop Science. During his graduate studies, Daniel evaluated the movement of fungicides on putting greens as affected by irrigation, while also assessing fungicide removal in turfgrass clippings. Daniel worked with Dr. Travis Gannon and the Pesticide Fate and Behavior Research group while pursuing his MS, assisting in research trials with various pesticides and crops. Daniel has now joined the NCSU Turf Pathology team where he helps in the Turf Diagnostic Lab and assists with fungicide research trials.
Current Research Projects
Characterization and management of mini-ring (Waitea zeae) on bermudagrass. (Daniel Freund - Ph.D student)
- Collection and characterization of Waitea zeae isolates
- Determine optimal environmental temperature for in-vitro growth of Waitea zeae
- Test in-vitro sensitivity of isolates to various fungicides and concentrations
- Investigate optimal fungicide application timings on mini-ring-affected bermudagrass across the state
- Determine the effect of the nitrogen source on the suppression of mini-ring in a greenhouse setting
- Survey golf courses with and without a history of mini-ring to assess mineral nutrition, pH, water quality, and nematode presence. Data will help determine similarities and differences among the tested golf courses.
Characterization and growth dynamics of sparse leaf patch (Microdochium paspali) on seashore paspalum. (Daniel Freund - Ph.D student)
- Collection and characterization of Microdochium paspali isolates
- Determine optimal environmental temperature for in-vitro growth of Waitea zeae
- Test in-vitro sensitivity of isolates to various fungicides and concentrations
