This article was originally published in AgriLife Today.
Allen Berthold, Ph.D., has been named interim director of the Texas Water Resources Institute (TWRI); his term began June 1.
Berthold has served TWRI in several capacities, beginning in 2009, when he joined the institute as project manager. He also has held the positions of research scientist, senior research scientist and assistant director. In becoming interim director, Berthold leaves his most recent post as associate director of TWRI, which he began in 2021.
Berthold will hold the interim director position as Texas A&M AgriLife leadership continue their search for a permanent director.
“Allen brings a wealth of knowledge about TWRI functions and collaborations, having served across much of the institute’s programmatic range,” said Cliff Lamb, Ph.D., director of Texas A&M AgriLife Research. “We are grateful that someone of Allen’s expertise is here to maintain continuity of this important work.”
A career with Texas A&M
Berthold said he seeks to increase collaboration between TWRI and other Texas A&M AgriLife entities. He plans to help leverage funding from an ongoing, water-focused exceptional item — funded in 2014 via AgriLife Research — to secure grant support for an array of water resources research and extension initiatives.
“TWRI manages a strong portfolio of impactful initiatives related to enhancing and protecting water resources,” Berthold said. “I’m excited for the opportunity to champion these and to grow new collaborations during my time in the director’s seat.”
Berthold’s professional experience includes more than 30 technical and peer-reviewed publications and more than $11 million in awarded grant funding for TWRI initiatives. He earned a doctoral degree in agricultural leadership, education and communications, a master’s degree in water management and hydrological sciences, and a bachelor’s degree in agricultural leadership and development, all from Texas A&M University. Berthold also holds a professional development certificate in non-profit management, also from Texas A&M.