Ryan Hamberg will join NC State as Extension weed specialist on Sept. 1, 2026. The position is based in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
Hamberg currently is completing a doctorate in agronomy with an emphasis in weed science at Texas A&M University. His research focuses on developing innovative nonchemical weed management technologies for row-crop production systems, including directed-energy and electrical weed control.
Ryan Hamberg joins NC State in September as the new Extension weed specialist. He will be based in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences within the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
As NC State Extension weed specialist, Hamberg will develop an Extension and applied research program focused on weed management in soybean and small grains. He will collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders across the state, including county Extension agents and growers, to address current and emerging challenges in sustainable weed control while developing research-based recommendations, publications, training and other outreach resources. He will also teach the weed science course at NC State’s Agricultural Institute.
“Ryan’s background in applied field research, herbicide resistance, electrical and directed-energy weed control, and grower-focused outreach will be a strong addition to the NC State Weed Science Program and the university's broader Extension mission,” said NC State Extension director David Monks. “His expertise will bolster our ability to deliver practical, science-driven weed management solutions, reflecting NC State Extension’s continued commitment to helping North Carolina’s producers and agricultural stakeholders thrive.”
Soybeans are one of North Carolina’s most important crops, with more than 1.6 million acres planted and an annual worth of up to $800 million. They are predominately grown in the coastal plain, but are present in all 100 counties. Fast-growing weeds can starve soybean sprouts of vital sunlight and nutrients, reducing yields and increasing production costs.
Hamberg learned about the importance of controlling heavy weed infestations while growing up on a farm in southeast Iowa. First-hand experience with the increasing prevalence of herbicide-resistant weeds led to his interest in nonchemical management methods.
“His expertise will bolster our ability to deliver practical, science-driven weed management solutions, reflecting NC State Extension’s continued commitment to helping North Carolina’s producers and agricultural stakeholders thrive.” — David Monks, NC State Extension director
He received a master's degree in crop production and physiology from Iowa State University, where his work examined the evolution of herbicide-resistant waterhemp in Iowa production systems. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural studies from Iowa State.
NC State Extension and the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences will introduce Hamberg to Extension colleagues, producers and industry stakeholders as part of the onboarding process this fall.
