New prof to explore policy and market impacts on agrifood systems

Dr. Tengda Gong joined the Department of Agribusiness and Agricultural Economics as Assistant Professor in  Agribusiness Finance on October 1, 2024. His upbringing in a farming village in China inspired his pursuit of agricultural economics. Tengda’s research focuses on understanding how public policies and market dynamics impact the functioning of agrifood systems.

Tell us about yourself.

I got my PhD in agricultural and development economics from the University of California, Davis in 2024.

Why did you get into this area of study?

I grew up in a farming village of China during the 1990s. I witnessed the hardship of making a good living from agriculture in my childhood. This motivated me to study agricultural and development economics at graduate school.

What are you seeking to explore with your research?

My research focuses on understanding how public policies and market mechanisms affect the functioning of agrifood systems amid market imperfections and climate change, with a focus on welfare implications.

Will you be teaching? What appeals to you about being a teacher?

I will teach the course of Introduction to Management Science this winter. I look forward to communicating with students who have fresh minds.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

During my spare time, I like to hike in nature and cook at home.