Undergraduates at Cornell University are invited to join our innovative experiential learning program and become directly involved in and learn about sustainable agriculture research this summer.
Sustainable Agriculture Scholars will conduct paid lab research and fieldwork in organic farming systems as part of one of two research teams at Cornell University. Scholars will carry out a mentored service-learning project on a local farm or in conjunction with a farming-oriented NGO, and reflect on that research and service in a more holistic manner during a weekly discussion/field trip session with the other Sustainable Agriculture Scholars.
There will be two Sustainable Agriculture Scholar teams:
- The first team's work focuses on understanding the role of plants and microorganisms in regulating soil biogeochemical processes in organic systems, such as soil organic matter storage, aggregate formation, decomposition, and microbially-mediated nitrogen transformations. This job will involve laboratory analysis of soil and plant samples and farm/field related work. Students will learn a variety of plant and soil analytical methods used to evaluate soil health and sustainability. To apply to be a Scholar in this project, please send a resume, and contact information for 3 references to: Julie Grossman, 255-0660, jmg225@cornell.edu
- The second team's research project investigates the biology of organic cropping systems. Experiments deal with both grain crops and vegetable crops. Tasks will primarily involve field data collection. Student will learn to identify dozens of species of plants and insects and the use of a variety of ecological methods to assess weed and insect populations and crop yield and quality. Most work will be in the field. To apply to be a Scholar in this project, contact Chuck Mohler, 255-0199, clm11@cornell.edu
Students in both teams will be involved in joint Sustainable Agriculture Scholars activities over the course of their summer work. Start: Mid-May, Hours: Full time (40 hrs/wk) Funded in part by the USDA Integrated Organic Program. Only undergraduates at Cornell University are eligible to apply.