College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Department of Horticulture

Josh Miranda, PhD, is an Extension specialist and assistant professor of weed science in the Department of Horticulture at Michigan State University.

Appointment

• 50% Research
• 35% Extension
• 10% Teaching
• 5% Service

Education

• Ph.D., Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, USA (Horticulture/Weed Science), 2025
• M.S., University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Scottsbluff, NE, USA (Agronomy & Horticulture/Weed Science), 2021
• B.S., Agronomy, Zamorano University, Honduras, 2018

Professional Experience

Assistant Professor, Department of Horticulture, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI; Aug 2025–present

Research Interests

My research focuses on integrated weed management in specialty crops, including vegetables, fruits, grapes, and berries. We conduct field studies to evaluate herbicide performance and crop safety, investigate non-chemical control methods, and study the evolution of herbicide resistance. A key part of my program is testing innovative tools such as electric weeders, robotics, and precision sprayers to reduce reliance on herbicides and improve the sustainability of specialty crop production.

Outreach

My Extension work supports Michigan growers manage weeds with practical, research-based recommendations. I organize field days, on-farm demonstrations, and seminars to share results directly with growers and industry partners. I also collaborate with educators and commodity groups across the state to address local challenges and support long-term weed management strategies that balance productivity, profitability, and sustainability.

Teaching

I contribute to graduate courses in weed science and horticultural crop production.

Publications

https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=hE87nk4AAAAJ&hl=en