Boston, MA — The Institute for Plant and Human Interface (IPHI) of Northeastern University is pleased to announce the appointment of Assistant Professor Dr. Gabriela Garcia as its newest member. Dr. Garcia joins IPHI from Northeastern University Nahant campus where she holds joint appointments in Marine and Environmental Sciences and Public Policy.
Dr. Garcia brings unique expertise in understanding the complex relationships between plants and human communities, with particular focus on agricultural resilience and sustainable farming practices. Her groundbreaking research on alternate bearing in fruit and nut trees has significant implications for global food security, especially considering that over 80% of the world’s farms operate on five acres or less.
“Dr. Garcia’s expertise in macro-level plant ecology and agricultural ethics provides an exciting complement to our existing strengths in plant molecular biology and botechnology,” said Dr. Jing-Ke Weng, Director of IPHI. “Her innovative work bridging ecosystem dynamics with human decision-making opens new possibilities for our institute. The combination of her ecological systems approach with our molecular and biological research programs creates unique opportunities to address critical challenges in global food security and agricultural sustainability. Her commitment to understanding both the scientific and human dimensions of agricultural challenges aligns perfectly with IPHI’s mission.”
Dr. Garcia’s recent research has developed new frameworks for understanding alternate bearing – a pattern where trees produce high yields one year followed by years of low yields. Her work is particularly relevant as climate change intensifies environmental pressures on agricultural systems worldwide. She emphasizes the importance of developing resilient farming practices and appropriate support systems for small-scale farmers who lack agricultural insurance and other protections.
At IPHI, Dr. Garcia will continue her cross-disciplinary research exploring how ecosystem dynamics on farms influence human decision-making, and how those decisions affect farm ecosystem dynamics. Her work aims to contribute to an agroecological transition that preserves biodiversity while fostering socio-ecological resilience to climate change.
Dr. Garcia holds joint appointments in the College of Science and the College of Social Sciences and Humanities at Northeastern University. Her collaborative approach and focus on real-world applications of ecological research make her a valuable addition to IPHI’s interdisciplinary team.
News source: IPHI