Dr. Ayala Wineman is an economist whose work bridges rural development, food systems transformation, and food security. With extensive experience in agricultural and resource economics, she brings both academic rigor and real-world perspective to her role at the Global Child Nutrition Foundation (GCNF).
As a Research Scientist at GCNF, Ayala provides technical guidance on the design and analysis of the Global Survey of School Meal Programs. She contributes to survey development, ensures methodological soundness, and supports the interpretation and write-up of findings. She also advises on other data-focused initiatives at GCNF, helping to ensure the organization’s research is timely and robust.
In addition to her role at GCNF, Ayala is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics at Michigan State University. She holds both an MSc and PhD in Agricultural, Food, and Resource Economics from Michigan State University. Her research relates broadly to rural development, food systems transformation, food environments, and food security primarily (but not only) in sub-Saharan Africa.
Outside of her academic work, Ayala enjoys international travel and hiking her splendid surroundings in western Washington State.
