Scott McElroy, PhD

Scott McElroy, PhD

  • Professor (Turfgrass Science)
  • Department of Crop, Soil & Environmental Sciences
334-844-3992
jsm0010@auburn.edu
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Scott McElroy is a Professor in the Department of Crop, Soil, and Environmental Sciences at Auburn University where he holds a distinguished Alumni Professorship. He received his MS from Auburn University and his PhD from the NC State University in Turfgrass and Weed Science. His primary research areas are on methods for weed management in turfgrass systems and robotics/automation in turfgrass. He serves as a reviewer for Weed Science, Weed Technology, Agronomy Journal, Crop Science, HortScience, andHortTechnology. Dr. McElroy teaches three classes, Principles of Weed Science (CSES 3120), Applied Weed Science Technology (CSES 5200/6200), and Advanced Turfgrass Management (CSES 5120/6120). Dr. McElroy maintains an active international research and teaching presence previously serving as an elected board member for the European Turfgrass Society and International Turfgrass Society, and is currently the Treasurer of the International Turfgrass Society.

Education

  • Ph.D. in Crop ScienceNC State University2003

  • M.S. in Agronomy and SoilsAuburn University2000

  • B.S. in CommunicationAuburn University1998

Professional Experience

  • Alumni Professor, Auburn University, Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences (2017-present)
  • Professor, Auburn University, Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences (2014-2017)
  • Assistant Professor, Auburn University, Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences (2008-2014)
  • Assistant Professor, University of Tennessee, Plant Sciences (2003-2007)
  • Graduate Research Assistant, NC State University, Crop Sciences (2001-2003)
  • Graduate Research Assistant, Auburn University, Agronomy & Soils (1998-2000)

Extension Experience

Dr. J. Scott McElroy has developed a highly visible outreach program that connects cutting-edge turfgrass research with practitioners across the United States and internationally. He is a frequent invited speaker at national and regional conferences, industry meetings, and professional training programs, where he presents on turfgrass weed management, herbicide resistance, and emerging technologies such as autonomous mowing and precision turf systems. His presentations are known for translating complex research into practical, decision-making tools for golf course superintendents, sports turf managers, and landscape professionals, positioning him as a leading voice in applied turfgrass science.

Internationally, Dr. McElroy’s outreach extends through invited presentations, collaborative research efforts, and the hosting of visiting scholars and professionals from Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa. He has developed strong partnerships with institutions such as the University of Pisa and has played a key role in fostering global dialogue on turfgrass management and automation technologies. These efforts have elevated the visibility of his program worldwide and contributed to the exchange of knowledge and innovation across diverse turfgrass systems and management environments.

At the state level, Dr. McElroy maintains a strong commitment to outreach in Alabama by engaging directly with turfgrass professionals, industry stakeholders, and agricultural communities. His work supports golf courses, sports facilities, and landscape managers through applied research dissemination, problem-solving discussions, and participation in extension-oriented initiatives addressing issues such as herbicide resistance and complex multi-species turf systems. Through these efforts, he provides practical solutions tailored to Alabama’s unique transition zone conditions while strengthening the connection between Auburn University and the state’s turfgrass and agricultural industries.


Honors and Awards

  • Fellow, Crop Science Society of America, 2021
  • Director’s Grantsmanship Award, 2018, 2020, College of Agriculture, Auburn University
  • Outstanding Faculty Member Award for the College of Agriculture, Selected by the Auburn University Student Government Association (2013)
  • Outstanding Instructor in Department of Agronomy and Soils, Selected by the Undergraduate Agronomy Club, Auburn University (2013)
  • Outstanding Early Career Weed Scientist, Weed Science Society of America, Baltimore, MD (2013)
  • Outstanding Young Weed Scientist, Southern Weed Science Society, San Juan, Puerto Rico (2011)
  • Director’s Research Award for Junior Faculty, Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station, Auburn University (2009)
  • Outstanding Instructor in the Department of Agronomy and Soils, Selected by the Undergraduate Agronomy Club, Auburn University (2009, 2013)


Elected Offices

  • Board Member, International Turfgrass Society (2017-present)
  • Executive board Member, European Turfgrass Society (International) (2012-2016)
  • Executive board Member, Southern Weed Science Society (2014-2016)