Ed Hellman has been named a professor of viticulture and enology in Texas Tech University's Department of Plant And Soil Science, according to officials within the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. He officially steps into his new post, which will be based at Texas Tech University at Fredericksburg, on Sept. 1.

At his new position, Hellman plans to establish a research program primarily focused on applied research addressing critical needs of the Texas grape and wine industry; and on sustainable production practices for several fruit crops including blackberry, strawberry, blueberry, peach and apple. In addition, he'll be teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in viticulture and enology, and developing a new course in sustainable fruit and nut crop production.

Separately, Hellman will provide local coordination for plant and soil science programs, oversee student recruitment, and provide leadership for outreach and engagement activities including continuation of Tech's successful Viticulture Certificate and Winemaking Certificate programs. He also expects to develop a new certificate program in sustainable fruit and vegetable production.

Hellman previously served as professor of viticulture at Texas Tech with a joint appointment as a professor and viticulture extension specialist with the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Prior to joining the Tech faculty in 2001, he worked as an associate professor and extension horticulturist with Oregon State University; and an assistant professor of horticulture at Kansas State University.

Hellman received his bachelor's and master's degrees in horticulture from the University of Illinois. His doctorate in plant science is from the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville. He is a member of the American Society for Enology and Viticulture, American Society for Horticultural Science, and American Pomological Society.

Recent awards for Hellman include the Outstanding Extension Educator from the American Society for Horticultural Science (2015); T.V. Munson Award from the Texas Wine & Grape Growers Association (2015); and a Pioneer Award from the Kansas Grape Growers and Winemakers Association (2007).

CONTACT: Eric Hequet, Department Chair, Department of Plant and Soil Science, Texas Tech University at (806) 742-2838 or eric.hequet@ttu.edu

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