OASIS® Grower Solutions announces the appointment of Dr. Vijay Rapaka as Director of Global Grower Operations & Research. Rapaka has 15 years of experience in research and development, previously holding the position of Manager of Research at OASIS® and developing innovative products. As Director, Rapaka will oversee global operations and provide insights into the company’s long-term vision and talent acquisition.
OASIS® Grower Solutions, a division of Smithers-Oasis, is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Vijay Rapaka as the Director of Global Grower Operations & Research. With over 15 years of experience in research and development, Dr. Rapaka is a seasoned expert in the field.
Dr. Rapaka first joined Smithers-Oasis in 2009 as a Senior Research Scientist, where he quickly rose to the position of Manager of Research at OASIS® Grower Solutions. Under his leadership, his team developed several revolutionary new products, including Horticubes® AeroMax hydroponic growing media, which has received widespread recognition in the industry.
As Director of Global Grower Operations & Research, Dr. Rapaka will oversee global operations and provide valuable insights into the business, its long-term vision, and how to attract and retain top talent for the company.
Dr. Rapaka holds a B.S. in Agriculture from ANGRAU, India, an M.S. in Agriculture from IARI, India, and a Ph.D. in Plant Physiology from the University of Hannover, Germany. Dr. Rapaka also served as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Department of Horticulture at Clemson University before joining Smithers-Oasis.
Jim Daly, VP of FloraLife® & Grower Global Operations and Corporate Research said, “Promoting Dr. Rapaka from his exploratory position to a directorship role was a wise decision for us. His extensive background in research will bring us closer to our corporate roots and overall strategy, thereby further strengthening our position in the marketplace.”
OASIS® Grower Solutions is confident that Dr. Rapaka’s expertise and leadership will help the company continue to flourish and succeed in the industry.
OASIS® Grower Solutions is a company that has been providing growers of all sizes with quality propagation media for vegetative plants, flowers, and seed germination for over 53 years. They aim to serve every grower with real solutions through unparalleled products, education, inspiration, and support. The company was started in 1954 by V.L. Smithers, who revolutionized the floral industry by creating the first water-absorbing foam media for florists. Since then, Smithers-Oasis has grown into a leading global manufacturer and marketer of floral foam, propagation accessories, engineered growing media, and post harvest products. They are focused on making growing easier, more profitable, and fun for growers at every level.
Image provided by OASIS® Grower Solutions
