Shibu Kar serves as an Assistant Dean and Program Leader for natural resources, environment, and energy at University of Illinois Extension. Dr. Kar provides strategic and functional leadership for Extension specialists, educators, and field coordinators to design and evaluate strategies that encourage the adoption of nature-friendly environmental and energy-related best practices among farmers, businesses, and communities. He also administers a portfolio of legacy programs, including the Master Naturalist program, Illinois-Indiana Sea Grant, and the Energy Education Council. Shibu leads a team of experts in nutrient loss reduction, invasive species, climate change, pollinator habitat, and water quality, among other topics.

Prior to joining Illinois Extension, Dr. Kar served University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point as an Associate Professor of Natural Resources and Sustainable Energy Specialist.