Josh Lohnes

Josh Lohnes is a Research Assistant Professor of Geography at West Virginia University (WVU), affiliated with the WVU Center for Resilient Communities. His work focuses on Food Sovereignty, Food Justice, and participatory action research to address food insecurity. He investigates the moral, political, and economic dimensions of food systems, particularly state nutrition programs and humanitarian food networks. Current projects include the Global Solidarity Alliance for Food Health and Social Justice, the National Right to Food Community of Practice, and initiatives to expand farm-to-school programs in West Virginia.

His research emphasizes the intersections of law, policy, and grassroots activism. Notable projects include analyzing emergency food system resilience, developing local food policies through partnerships with the WVU Family Nutrition Program, and examining the political economy of food banking in the U.S. He critiques neoliberal charitable food regimes and advocates for systemic changes to realize the Right to Food.

Lohnes has contributed to over 15 peer-reviewed articles since 2013, spanning topics from food waste regulation to transnational hunger advocacy. His work bridges human geography with interdisciplinary approaches to social justice. Though no formal awards are listed, his contributions to community-driven research and policy development reflect significant academic and practical impact.