Tricia Jenkins

Dr. Tricia Jenkins is a Teaching Assistant Professor in the School of Applied and Interdisciplinary Studies at Kansas State University Olathe, specializing in urban food systems. With a Ph.D. in Horticulture from K-State, her research focuses on urban food production systems, postharvest handling of fruits and vegetables, and sustainability assessments. She investigates tomato grafting effects on yield and quality, develops tools for food security evaluation, and explores sustainable postharvest solutions for small farms. Dr. Jenkins teaches courses including Sustainable Production of Specialty Crops and Urban Food Systems.

Her scholarship extends to life cycle assessments of agricultural practices and improving organic produce handling. She serves as associate editor for the Journal of Agriculture, Food Systems, and Community Development and collaborates with extension programs like Growing Growers to support sustainable farming practices.