Nicole Peterson

Nicole Peterson is Professor of Anthropology at UNC Charlotte, holding a PhD from UC San Diego. Her research examines human adaptation to environmental change, particularly food systems resilience and climate adaptation strategies. She directs NSF-funded initiatives including the Integrated Network for Social Sustainability ($1.2M) and community-based food security projects.

Fieldwork encompasses marine resource management in Mexico, agricultural water systems in Ethiopia, and urban food access in Charlotte. Recent publications analyze college food insecurity as structural violence, gentrification impacts on community health, and cultural dimensions of environmental decision-making. She collaborates with campus food pantries and policy councils to address student needs.

Teaching includes Environmental Anthropology, Political Ecology, and Ethnographic Methods. She mentors undergraduate researchers through the Charlotte Community/Research Scholars program and leads study abroad programs examining sustainability practices.