Rachel Kerr

Rachel Kerr is a Professor in the Feminist, Gender and Sexuality Studies Program at Cornell University's College of Arts and Sciences, where she conducts interdisciplinary research at the intersection of sustainable agriculture, food security, and social inequalities in southern Africa.

Education

• Doctorate, Cornell University, 2006
• Master of Science, University of Guelph, 1998
• Bachelor of Science, University of Toronto, 1996

Research Focus

Her work employs feminist theory and political ecology frameworks to examine food systems through holistic, community-based approaches. Key areas include agroecology, climate change adaptation, nutritional outcomes, and the historical roots of agricultural policies in Malawi and Ghana. She emphasizes participatory methodologies that integrate indigenous knowledge with scientific research to address sustainable food system development.

Publication Trends

Her 2010-2019 publications reveal consistent engagement with African food security challenges, particularly examining how agrobiodiversity, gender equity, and climate adaptation intersect in Malawi and Ghana. The research demonstrates evidence-based improvements in nutrition and soil health through community-led agroecological practices, while critically analyzing power dynamics in agricultural policy and land use.

Scientific Awards

No scientific awards were documented in the provided materials.

Academic Contributions

• Mentorship: Advises graduate students in Feminist, Gender and Sexuality Studies with focus on Africa-related research
• Collaboration: Leads international partnerships with agricultural scientists, public health experts, and Malawian/Tanzanian community organizations
• Funding: Secures research support for community-based projects through university and external grants

Research Infrastructure

While no formal lab is specified, her long-term fieldwork in Malawi and Tanzania operates through community-based participatory frameworks involving local organizations, farmers' groups, and cross-disciplinary research teams addressing sustainable agriculture challenges.