Dr. Juliana Espíndola joined as Assistant Professor and Extension Seed Crop Specialist in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences at Oregon State University on April 13, 2026. Dr. Juliana Espíndola is an agronomist with a Ph.D. in Agronomy, specializing in Seed Science and Technology. Her work integrates field experimentation, seed physiology, and emerging technologies, such as digital phenotyping and machine learning, to better understand crop development and enhance seed yield and quality. She has conducted research across a diverse range of species, including major field and specialty crops. As the new Assistant Professor and Extension Seed Crop Specialist, Dr. Espíndola will lead a statewide program focused on improving seed production and crop performance in grass and legume seed systems, as well as other specialty crops. Her Extension program will integrate seed quality, crop management, and technological innovation to deliver practical, science-based solutions that support farmers and stakeholders in seed production systems.