Digital Viticulture: The future of vine health
An online talk as part of the RSB Plant Health Series.
Details
When? Wednesday 6 May 2026, 15:00 to 16:00
Where? Online
CPD Approved This event is approved for CPD
An online talk as part of the RSB Plant Health Series
This event will take place from 15:00 -16:00 BST.
We are pleased to be joined by keynote speaker Dr Katie Gold from Cornell University and Rob Poyser from Vinescapes, who will discuss the future of Vine Health and disease control, as well as Dr Gold's Grape Sensing, Pathology, and Extension Lab at Cornell (GrapeSPEC). The talk will be followed by an opportunity for an audience Q&A and discussion.
Speakers
Dr Katie Gold is an Assistant Professor of Grape Pathology in the Plant Pathology and Plant-Microbe Biology Section of the School of Integrative Plant Science at Cornell University where she holds primary research and extension responsibilities for grape disease management in New York State.
Rob Poyser is a viticulturist for Vinescapes, which includes being responsible for managing client vineyards. From preparing new sites for planting, to overseeing all viticultural tasks and tractor operations, he works closely with growers to achieve high-quality fruit and sustainable yields for premium winemaking. Rob has been in the wine industry since 2012, working with fine wine merchants in London before gaining a 1st class degree in Viticulture & Oenology.
Vintages in Bordeaux and Beaujolais, before settling in Sussex, have provided him with a practical, ecological, and data-driven philosophy on viticulture. Wine, and farming, are his passions and he says he is proud to oversee regenerative approaches that establish healthy, long-lasting vines; in vineyards that have identity and purpose in our natural landscape.
Rob won the WineGB Sustainability in Viticulture Award in 2024.
Who should attend?
This event is open to all, but will be particularly relevant to scientists including those working in areas related to plant health.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
This event is approved by the Royal Society of Biology for purposes of CPD and can be counted as 3 CPD points. If you are a member of the Plant Health Professional Register, this CPD contributes to maintaining your registration.
Special requirements
If you have any accessibility requirements, please let us know during your booking, and we will do what we can to accommodate your needs.
Cost and booking
This event is free to attend and advance registration is required. Bookings will close at 23:59 on Tuesday 5 May.
Contact
For booking, website or events queries, please contact Evie Drennan at events@rsb.org.uk or on 020 3925 3444.
Code of Conduct
By its Royal Charter, the Royal Society of Biology (RSB) has the powers to promote, establish and support standards of professional skill and conduct. The RSB is committed to ensuring equal opportunities in the life sciences, and supports diversity throughout the pipeline. We proactively promote a culture of inclusivity within our discipline and the broader STEM community. It is vital at any RSB event or meeting, that everyone attending is free from any form of harassment or discrimination, feels comfortable and safe, and has the opportunity for an enjoyable experience.