Peter Allen, PhD
Mississippi State University
Tell us about your background and international/research-for-development interests.
My background has included working on research projects in a variety of places around the world such as Canada, Chile, and Cambodia. These experiences have allowed me to connect, grow, and collaborate with people from different cultures and appreciate the challenges faced and the strengths of individuals and communities to respond.
How does your background in fish physiological ecology inform your approach at the Fish Innovation Lab?
My background is in the intersection between the physiology and ecology of fish with application to aquaculture. This training has been very helpful for improving aquaculture production practices in a wide variety of applications. Through the Fish Innovation Lab, I am able to increase local capacity for research, production, and conservation, which leads to food security, improved quality of life, and resource management.
In your view, what are the most pressing challenges related to food and nutrition security worldwide, and what are some ways we can overcome these challenges?
I believe food and nutrition security involves sustainable, regional production of goods. Aquaculture and fisheries management can provide high-quality food sources at the local level and put the knowledge in the hands of people and governments who depend on these resources.
What do you wish other people knew about fish and/or food security?
Fish are an extremely important link to nutrition, health, and food security for individuals, families, and societies. Managing cultural practices for optimal production regionally can lead to better use of fish resources and provide sustainable sources of high-quality food.
If you weren’t a professor in the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Aquaculture at MSU, what other careers might you have pursued?
That’s an interesting question. I have always been interested in the natural environment, animals and the intersection with people, so I would want a career that embodies these areas.
What are your hobbies or activities outside of work?
I really enjoy fishing, hiking, backpacking, camping, hunting, jogging, gardening, and woodwork. Spending time with other people in these activities makes them even richer.
What is on your bucket list? (What do you hope to do, accomplish, see, experience, etc. in your lifetime that you haven’t yet?)
I would like to go on a long canoe-camping trip, get to know more people and experience different cultures (I love eating the great foods other cultures offer), and see many of the beautiful landscapes of the world.
If you would like to, tell us about your family, where you are from, and any personal details you would like to share.
I grew up in the Pacific Northwest of the U.S. and California. I have a great family, with a patient wife and two daughters that enjoy laughing at my jokes.
Published February 22, 2022