Karina Gallardo

Dr. Karina Gallardo is a Professor and Extension Economist at Washington State University (WSU), affiliated with the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS). Her research focuses on enhancing value-added opportunities for specialty crops, particularly in tree fruit economics, consumer demand analysis, and the economics of technological adoption in agriculture.

Dr. Gallardo holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics from Oklahoma State University (2007), an M.Sc. in Agricultural Economics from Mississippi State University (2004), and degrees in Food Science and Technology Engineering and B.Sc. from Universidad Nacional Agraria La Molina in Peru (2000 and 1997).

Research Interests: She investigates consumer preferences for fresh fruit quality, technology adoption by growers (e.g., robotic harvesters, pest management systems), and economic viability of new agricultural technologies. Her work addresses labor economics, environmental impacts, and market dynamics.

Grants & Collaborations: Dr. Gallardo leads or participates in USDA-NIFA-SCRI projects totaling over $4.3 million, including robotic harvest systems, disease management, and breeding program efficiency. She collaborates with institutions like Cornell University and USDA-ARS on projects involving fruit storage, mechanization, and pest management.

Labs/Teams: While specific labs are not highlighted, her work is aligned with WSU’s extension programs, bridging research and practical applications for growers.