Rami Kassam

Nematologist specializing in root-knot nematode biology, molecular diagnostics, and biological control. Drives research across plant–nematode–microbe interactions, genomics, and sustainable management of horticultural and turfgrass systems.

Postdoctoral Research Fellow - University of Florida/IFAS, Fort Lauderdale Research and Education Center (FLREC) - Davie, Florida, USA

(2023-01)

• Lead research on biology, molecular ID, phenotyping, and management of Meloidogyne spp. in horticultural and turfgrass systems
• Design pathogenicity and host–parasite experiments; apply PCR, sequencing, and phylogenetics to characterize nematodes and associated microbes
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate researchers in nematode culture, molecular techniques, experimental design, and scientific communication

Research Associate - ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) - New Delhi, India

(2021-01 - 2022-12)

• Executed DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qRT-PCR, and transcriptomic analyses to characterize nematophagous fungi–nematode molecular interactions
• Applied GFP-transformed fungi and metabolite profiling (GC-MS, LC-MS, HPLC) to investigate fungal colonization of nematodes
• Evaluated microbial isolates in vitro and in vivo to advance biological control agent and biopesticide development

Assistant Researcher - Lattakia (Tishreen) University - Latakia, Syria

(2014-01 - 2015-12)

• Delivered undergraduate instruction and practical lab training in Nematology, Pest Control, and Plant Pathology

Environmental Field Scientist - Department of Agriculture - Latakia, Syria

(2011-01 - 2015-12)

• Isolated and identified indigenous Trichoderma spp. and Beauveria spp. to support biological control programs for agricultural pests and diseases

Crop Science Researcher - Department of Agriculture - Latakia, Syria

(2007-01 - 2011-12)

• Guided growers through field surveys, crop performance assessments, and integrated pest and disease management recommendations

Ph.D. - Nematology - ICAR–Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) (2021-01)

M.S. - Agriculture - Tishreen University (2012-01)

B.S. - Agriculture - Tishreen University (2006-01)