Kendall Johnson smiles while standing in front of a brick wall outdoors. She is wearing an olive-green sleeveless shirt.

Kendall Johnson

Doctoral candidate in UGA's Department of Plant Pathology, Johnson studies phony peach disease, a reemerging and economically important disease of peaches in the Southeast.

Where are you from, and why did you choose to attend UGA and CAES?

I am originally from Pensacola, Florida, but I grew up in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Upon completing my master’s degree in plant pathology from North Carolina State University in 2018, I knew I wanted to further my education in a Ph.D. program.

The University of Georgia has one of the largest plant pathology programs in the U.S. that offers their students a wide range of experiences and opportunities for the development of a strong, well-rounded individual. I made a connection with my advisor, Dr. Phil Brannen, and was excited about the research opportunities within his lab.

Why did you choose your field of study?

I have always loved plants, but I wasn’t sure if I could make a career out of it. After graduating with my bachelor's in biology, I worked at a small agricultural chemical company, and that opportunity taught me a lot about the agriculture industry.

Although it took me years to discover the excitement of research and agriculture, my various opportunities in my studies and work experience helped me find my true passion in plant pathology.

I developed a desire to enhance disease management and crop protection strategies to help the surrounding agriculture communities.

In black and white, light filtering through peach branches, with the focus on a peach hanging from a branch in the foreground
Warm light filtering through peach branches, with the focus on a peach hanging from a branch in the foreground
In black and white, light filtering through peach branches, with the focus on a peach hanging from a branch in the foreground
Warm light filtering through peach branches, with the focus on a peach hanging from a branch in the foreground

What has been your favorite class at UGA?

I have enjoyed several classes in my program here at UGA, but my favorite class, by far, was "Field Plant Pathology."

This course allowed me to travel around Georgia and learn about various plant diseases affecting major crops. This class also offered the opportunity to get hands-on experience in the field, with the added benefit of getting a closer look at the collected disease samples in a lab setting.

I interacted with various UGA professors, Extension agents, agriculture industry representatives and growers. Each representative provided a different perspective on the agricultural industry and gave an overview of their education, experiences, and current position.

Who has been your favorite instructor?

My favorite instructor is Dr. Shavannor Smith. I have taken two of her courses: "Biology of Host Resistance" and "Host-Pathogen Interactions."

Shavannor Smith stands in front of an orange-flowering bush while wearing a khaki blouse and neck scarf

Associate Professor Shavannor Smith

Associate Professor Shavannor Smith

Not only are her courses rigorous, but she challenges each of her students to understand the foundational mechanisms and principles of plant-pathogen interactions. She cares about each student and encourages them to further develop their critical thinking and communication skills.

What has been your best experience so far at the college?

I have loved learning more about Georgia’s agriculture industry, not only through my research efforts but through collaborations with students in my lab and other labs within our department.

I have also enjoyed representing the department when presenting at local, regional and national conferences. Each of these experiences have shaped me to become a successful plant pathologist.

Kendall Johnson gives a thumbs-up while learning a grafting technique in the field. She wears a black tank top and is surrounded by plants.

Johnson learns and practices a grafting technique with peach trees in a collaborative project with Clemson University.

Johnson learns and practices a grafting technique with peach trees in a collaborative project with Clemson University.

Kendall Johnson, wearing a fleece jacket and head band, smiles on top of Brasstown Bald at sunrise.

Johnson rests at the summit of Brasstown Bald, the highest point in the state of Georgia.

Johnson rests at the summit of Brasstown Bald, the highest point in the state of Georgia.

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Kendall Johnson gives a thumbs-up while learning a grafting technique in the field. She wears a black tank top and is surrounded by plants.

Johnson learns and practices a grafting technique with peach trees in a collaborative project with Clemson University.

Johnson learns and practices a grafting technique with peach trees in a collaborative project with Clemson University.

Kendall Johnson, wearing a fleece jacket and head band, smiles on top of Brasstown Bald at sunrise.

Johnson rests at the summit of Brasstown Bald, the highest point in the state of Georgia.

Johnson rests at the summit of Brasstown Bald, the highest point in the state of Georgia.

What do you want to do with what you have learned here?

I consider myself a lifelong learner and a curious individual, which gives me a drive for conducting research and providing sustainable management strategies to meet the needs and expectations of the surrounding agriculture communities.

I have expanded my knowledge and developed stronger research, lab and communication skills. UGA has provided me with various development opportunities because of its top-tier academics and research, as well as its dedication to the agricultural community.

Upon graduation, I want to become a leader and expert within the agriculture industry and field of plant pathology. Specifically, I would love to contribute to innovations within the crop protection sector.

How has your experience at UGA changed you?

Through the many opportunities I have been given during my time here at UGA, I have become more confident in my research, communication and critical-thinking skills.

UGA has helped me feel supported and empowered as a woman working in a historically male-dominated field.

What do you like to do outside of class — hobbies, interests, secret talents? 

I love hiking, so any chance I get, I try to find new trails and climb peaks for the beautiful views. I especially love sunrise hikes, but it’s quite difficult to find a hiking partner willing to wake up around 2 a.m.!

Since moving to Georgia in 2019, I have been checking off some of the most iconic hikes.

Illustrated fungi icon representing UGA's plant pathology department
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