Perfecto Lab

I am broadly interested in complex ecological interactions that maintain diversity in agroecosystems such as trait-mediated indirect interactions (TMII’s), mutualisms and keystone species. My research is conducted in coffee agroecosystems in Mexico and Puerto Rico where these types of ecological interactions are embedded in complex networks of community interactions. For my Ph.D., I plan to develop a series of projects that explore the role of TMII’s in permitting coexistence of species and in the biological control of pests of coffee. Outside of research, I enjoy going to the movies, dancing and trying new places to eat in Ann Arbor.

Keywords: TMII’s, agroecosystems, diversity, agroecology, Mexico, Puerto Rico, ants, coffee

M.S. in Environment and Sustainability, University of Michigan (2019)
B.S. in Engineering of Agroecology, Universidad Autónoma Chapingo (2015)

My academic work broadly draws from critical geography, medical humanities, and science/technology studies to trace the entanglements of food, land, power, and care. My thesis focuses on the food sovereignty movement in Palestine and how Palestinian agro-activists are using agroecology to access spaces of "vitality" under occupation, apartheid, and biopolitical systems of international aid. Outside of research, I am a multi-media artist (mostly in poetry, printmaking, and dance) and educator. I also enjoy tending to my community garden plot, exploring new music, snuggling with my pup, and searching for the best mezcal cocktail in Ann Arbor.

Keywords: agroecology, food sovereignty, critical geography, biopolitics, palestine, international aid

B.A. in English Literature, Columbia University, 2021

https://www.blacksunflowerspoetry.com/product-page/reliquary-bestiary-poems-and-archives

I have a general interest in exploring the intricate relationships between insects and vegetation, and their effects on agroecology. Currently, I am particularly interested in investigating the vegetation complexities of the coffee shrub and their implications on the farmland in Puerto Rico. In addition, recently I am interested in exploring the political process involved with developing and designing agroecological approaches. Outside of my master's studies, you will catch me on the soccer field, eating, dancing or at the gym. I also love to have a great charla with anyone.

Keywords: Interdisciplinary Collaboration, Agroecology, Entomology, Climate Resilience, Animal Behavior Studies, Colombia, Global Partnership (US-Colombia)

B.S. in Biological Sciences and Environmental Studies: Ecosystems, Binghamton University (2023)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sofiaijordan/

My general interests span from organic waste management systems, to perennial agroforestry in temperate North America, to assessing pathways towards a just ecological transition towards sustainable farming systems in the global north. Specializing in ecosystem science and management, I want to utilize my interdisciplinary background to help farmers and communities better utilize natural resources and protect their livelihoods of environmental stewardship. In the meantime, I enjoy volleyball, playing harmonica, and planning for potentially running my own farm someday.

Keywords: Agroforestry, Food Systems, political ecology, social ecology, Global North, Regenerative Agriculture, Market Gardening

B.S. Sustainable Agriculture and Community Food Systems, University of Kentucky (2024)
Certificate in Urban and Community Forestry, University of Kentucky (2024)

https://substack.com/@mateogarcia1