Hello everyone, my name is Shayne Morrissey. I recently joined UC Riverside as a Postdoctoral Scholar in weed science, working with CE Specialist Sara Ohadi. In spring of 2026, I completed my doctorate in Agricultural and Environmental Chemistry from UC Davis, where I focused on developing integrated pest management practices, including solarization, biosolarization, and cover cropping, for broad-spectrum weed and soil pest management.
Growing up in Chico, CA, I have been involved in agriculture from an early age, including working in local rice fields and almond orchards, experiences that helped shape my interest in applied agricultural research and extension.
As a Postdoc at UCR, I am excited to expand my experience in weed science and management by working on projects that evaluate herbicide programs across a variety of production systems in Southern California, as well as aid in the implementation of nonchemical control strategies. Right now, I am investigating different pre- and post-emergence herbicides for the management of Spergularia marina (saltmarsh sand-spurry), a new weed emerging in Imperial Valley alfalfa, while also studying its reproductive cycle to better understand its establishment and spread. If you've noticed sand spurry in your alfalfa fields, I'd love to hear about it. Feel free to reach out or share your observations with me directly.
I am eager to build relationships with growers, PCAs, advisors, and researchers across the region. Please do not hesitate to reach out with questions, collaboration ideas, or just to say hello. You can contact me at shaynem@ucr.edu.