Cinthia Zarate Chirinos
Arrell Scholar, Department of Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics
Cinthia hails from Peru – and grew up in the northern part of the country before moving to Lima for school. She recently completed her MSc in Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics here at the University of Guelph. Additionally, she holds a master’s degree in Education from the University of San Martin de Porres and a BEng in Industrial Engineering from the University of Lima.
Cinthia spent several years advising students from rural areas of Peru and running courses in Operations and Supply Chain as an Assistant Professor of Engineering at the University of Piura. After joining the University of Guelph, she took on the role of Coordinator for the Campus Food Market during the 2023-24 academic year.
Within the Department of Food, Agricultural and Resource Economics, Cinthia will complete her PhD under the supervision of Dr. Tongzhe Li, Arrell Chair in Behavioural and Experimental Economics. Her research will focus on the adoption of best management practices in agriculture with a particular emphasis on underrepresented populations and the subsequent impact on their communities. Ultimately, her research will contribute to increasing productivity while addressing the needs of these communities within the agriculture sector. After her Arrell Scholarship, Cinthia hopes to continue in academia – conducting research with tangible impacts, sharing knowledge, and inspiring other students to make positive contributions to our food systems.
Learn more about Arrell ScholarshipsWhy become an Arrell Scholar?
“Studying at the University of Guelph is one of the most important steps in my career development in the food and agricultural field. This experience has given me a deeper understanding of how research and further analysis can enhance real-life systems if investigations are well-executed and supported by a robust theoretical framework and genuinely passionate researchers ready to delve into fieldwork.”
During her time with the Campus Food Market, Cinthia was exposed to the work of the Arrell Food Institute and recognized the importance of collaboration on food insecurity and other food issues. She sees the Arrell Scholarship as a unique opportunity to connect with industry and academic leaders to drive impact within the food and agricultural chain.
Want to learn more about Arrell Scholarships?
Arrell Food Institute provides graduate students the opportunity to engage in an experiential learning program that will prepare them to be leaders in the agri-food sector and address key agriculture and food challenges.rnrnArrell Scholarships are currently not open for applications. Please check back for updates.