Dr. Jennifer Sowerwine

Biography

Jennifer Sowerwine is an Associate Cooperative Extension Specialist in the Department of Environmental Science, Policy and Management at the University of California, Berkeley. She holds a Ph.D. in Wildland Resource Science from the same university and a B.A. in Geography/Ecosystems from UCLA. Her research engages diverse stakeholders across the food system spectrum, aiming to build equitable and economically viable culturally relevant food systems that promote healthy communities while supporting ecological resilience and social justice. Through participatory and collaborative research methodologies, Sowerwine co-designs projects with community partners, exploring effective communication strategies and culturally appropriate methods to ensure diverse representation and input. Her outreach approach emphasizes knowledge co-production, developing educational materials that build community assets and respond to public priorities. Her work with beginning farmers, ranchers, and diverse communities in California focuses on enhancing sustainable livelihoods, promoting bio-cultural diversity, and achieving greater food sovereignty. Current research interests include improving the economic and ecological viability of historically underserved farmers, enhancing tribal health and food security, developing youth leadership, and promoting agro-biodiversity in metropolitan areas.

Research Interests

Experience