George Hochmuth appointed UF/IFAS associate dean for research

May 3, 2006

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — George Hochmuth, director of the University of Florida’s North Florida Research and Education Center in Quincy, has been named associate dean for research with UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences.

In announcing the appointment, which becomes effective June 1, Mark McLellan, dean for research, said Hochmuth comes to the office with a broad background of experience in agriculture, agricultural research and administration.

McLellan said he was pleased to have a leader like Hochmuth in the position. “His extensive administrative skills and in-depth understanding of our research and education centers are very valuable,” McLellan said. “His commitment to excellence will strengthen our leadership team.”

As a professor of horticultural sciences, Hochmuth led statewide research and extension programs in vegetable nutrient and water management, McLellan said. “His research is a basis for nutrient best management practices for commercial vegetable production in Florida and the nation. Dr. Hochmuth has also published widely on vegetable culture and management.”

Before joining the UF faculty in 1984, Hochmuth was a faculty member in the plant and soil sciences department at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst. He has served on U.S. Department of Agriculture review panels, several editorial boards and has been president of two professional societies. Hochmuth is a Fellow of the American Society for Horticultural Science (ASHS). He is also the recipient of numerous professional awards, including the Outstanding Extension Educator Award from ASHS.

As director of UF’s North Florida Research and Education Center in Quincy, Live Oak and Marianna, Hochmuth managed the construction of new multimillion-dollar research facilities and led the establishment of new research programs in beef cattle, forestry and wildlife at the center. His leadership efforts led to increased research funding and faculty productivity.

In responding to his new appointment, Hochmuth stated, “I am honored to continue serving UF/IFAS in this new role, and I am excited to be part of the IFAS research leadership team.”