Prof. Mike Wingfield is Mondi Professor of Forest Pathology, the Director of the
Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute, Director
of the
Tree Protection Co-operative Programme (TPCP) and the Director of the
DST/NRF Centre of
Excellence in Tree Health Biotechnology (CTHB). Together with his colleagues and students, he studies various aspects of pests and pathogens of forest trees. One of his special interests
is to better understand the origin and patterns of global movement of insect pests and pathogens of trees. In this regard, he maintains a close working relationship with forestry companies
and conservation groups in many parts of the world, who share his concern regarding the growing threat of tree pests and pathogens. He has published widely on the topic of tree health and is
the recipient of many awards for excellence in education and research.