Education
- B.S., Biology, Central Missouri State University
- M.S., Entomology, University of Missouri
- Ph.D., Kansas State University
Dr. Rice was nationally recognized for his work in extension entomology. He dedicated his extension career to the creative development and innovative delivery of IPM information to crop producers, agri-business consultants, and extension educators. His extension efforts spanned 26 years at Texas A&M University, the University of Idaho, and Iowa State University. He joined the Department of Entomology in 1988 as an assistant professor, advancing to associate professor in 1992, and professor in 1996. He resigned in 2009 to join DuPont Pioneer (now Corteva Agriscience) as a senior research scientist with insect trait development responsibilities. He has been an affiliate professor since 2009. He retired from Corteva in December, 2021.
He co-authored with Larry Pedigo three editions (5th, 6th, 7th) of the textbook Entomology and Pest Management, with the last edition adding Rayda Krell (ISU grad) as a third co-author.
His recognitions include Outstanding Extension Agent—Pest Management (Texas A&M University), and at Iowa State University he received the University Extension New Professional Award, the Excellence in Applied Research and Extension Award, and the Outstanding Achievement in Extension Award. He was a Fulbright scholar at the University of Zimbabwe in 1998. At Corteva Agriscience he was honored with a Business Director’s Award, and in 2021 he was named a Corteva Laureate—the highest recognition given to research scientists within the company. He has two patronyms, both longhorned beetles, named in his honor—Chemsakiella ricei and Eclipta ricei.
Dr. Rice was elected to the Entomological Society of America Governing Board for nine years. He served as Section E (Extension) Representative, Secretary-Treasurer, and President in 2009. During 2000 he was the ESA Annual Meeting Program Chair in Montreal. Within ESA he has been awarded Distinguished Achievement in Extension (2010), Fellow (2011), Honorary Member (2015), and the C. V. Riley Award (2016). Currently he is a subject editor for American Entomologist where he writes the column Legends.