Dr. Maria Smith

A convergence of multiple things during a pivotal time in my early 20s drove my interest in viticulture, from my first memorable wine bottle on my 21st birthday (2005 Trimbach Frederic Emile Riesling) to investigating the grape ripening process while reading manuscripts for undergraduate research to being immersed in Finger Lakes vineyards and wine during my time in Ithaca. All these had a profound effect on shaping that interest. Dr. Bauerle’s lab was comprised of individuals who worked in different subject areas related to root biology. I was fortunate to have lab mates who worked in viticulture application. They were seminal to introducing me to many of the viticulture and enology students at Cornell at the time. It was refreshing to see the collaborative community built in the discipline, and that was encouraging and welcoming for someone like me who otherwise had no connection. I gravitated towards the academic community that grapes and wines have. It is truly unlike any other.

We have several ongoing projects that look at improving vineyard sustainability and enhancing wine quality. I am also looking forward to a future that leans heavily on hybrid grapes (Vinifera- and non-vinifera-based) research. 

My path was not straightforward. I began my career at Virginia Commonwealth University in biology and chemistry, with a focus on pre-med studies. An intro plant biology course piqued my interest in all the cool ways plants had evolved to cope with stresses related to being sessile organisms. This lead me to seeking undergraduate research in VCU’s plant molecular genetics lab. From there, I developed a desire for having application and outlet of basic plant research. This lead me to pursue graduate studies in Horticulture at Cornell University, where I would meet my future advisor, Dr. Michela Centinari, who was a post-doc in my MS advisor’s, Dr. Taryn Bauerle's, root physiology lab. Our mutual interest in ways that basic physiology research can inform practical management lead me to working with Dr. Centinari in a viticulture PhD at Penn State using a full-process investigation from grapes to wine to sensory to practical adoption. I knew during to my PhD that I wanted to work hands-on with growers. Looking for viticulture jobs in the Eastern US brought me to Ohio State, where I have been working in a 100% viticulture extension capacity since 2018. With a new appointment that incorporates 10% research, I have the ability to integrate more research to solve pressing issues for Ohio grape producers. 

Yes, I was fortunate to connect with some wonderful German and Italian researchers at the 2025 Giesco meeting in Geisenheim, Germany. That has lead to some great partnerships and opportunities for establishing trials on new cultivars and rootstocks here in Ohio. We have also had the privilege to get to know and visit with some great Spanish colleagues in the Sprayer Technology field, too.

I look forward to seeing the whole industry together each year at our Ohio Grape and Wine Conference in Dublin, OH (coming up Feb 15-17, 2026). My favorite academic conference will always be ASEV-Eastern Section. That meeting is like an educational family reunion every year. 

I am happy to see a future where we can build a multi-faceted program that includes many cooperators in HCS. I am also excited to have a full and lively Gourley Hall in Wooster. 

In an alternate life, I would have been an arborist. I love all things trees and can usually be found communing among them hiking with my dog, rock climbing, or trail running in their native setting. I appreciate well-cultivated trees at arboretums and gardens, too. I also love sharing a good meal with family and friends. Recommendations for favorite recipes, dishes, and restaurants are always welcome.