Highlights:
- UF/IFAS appoints plant pathology leader Mathews Paret as interim director of the Mid-Florida Research and Education Center (MREC).
- Paret brings expertise in plant pathology, diagnostics and crop protection.
- Former directory Kirsten Pelz-Stelinski recently transitioned to Associate Dean for Research in the UF/IFAS Office of the Dean for Research.
The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) names Mathews Paret as interim Center director of the Mid-Florida Research and Education Center (MREC) effective as of Monday, August 10, 2026. Paret succeeds Kirsten Pelz-Stelinski, who recently transitioned to Associate Dean for Research in the UF/IFAS Office of the Dean for Research.
Paret brings with him experience as professor and chair of the UF/IFAS Department of Plant Pathology, where his research advances cutting-edge diagnostics, and innovative disease management technologies on ornamental and vegetable crops to address critical plant disease challenges.
“Dr. Paret is an outstanding chair of our plant pathology department and is a well-established Research and Education Center faculty member,” said Robert Gilbert, UF/IFAS dean for research and executive director for academic affairs. “I am confident he will help nurture our strong faculty programs at MREC and build on the momentum established by Dr. Stelinski.”
As interim director, Paret will lead faculty, staff and students at the Apopka research center while continuing his work as professor and chair of the UF/IFAS Department of Plant Pathology.
“MREC’s strong foundation in research, Extension, and teaching, combined with growing programs in Controlled Environment Agriculture, positions the center for continued excellence,” said Paret. “I am excited to contribute to its future success and impact.”
The center, currently known for its support of the ornamental horticulture industry, has potential to expand the research focus to further support urban growth across central Florida. Future research projects may include controlled environment agriculture.
To learn more, visit the Mid-Florida Research and Education Center website.
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ABOUT UF/IFAS
The mission of the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is to develop knowledge relevant to agricultural, human and natural resources and to make that knowledge available to sustain and enhance the quality of human life. With more than a dozen research facilities, 67 county Extension offices, and award-winning students and faculty in the UF College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, UF/IFAS brings science-based solutions to the state’s agricultural and natural resources industries, and all Florida residents.
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