Regenerative Agriculture Policy and Data Mapping Research Position
Nicole Starosielski, Professor
Film Studies
Applications for Fall 2024 are closed for this project.
In response to the critical role of regenerative agriculture in combating climate change, we seek to conduct research that will facilitate the development of innovative tax incentive policies in California to catalyze widespread adoption of regenerative practices. Join a team that will investigate and explore new policies and campaign strategies to promote regenerative transition. This research position will directly feed into –and work in relation to–a groundbreaking policy campaign that aims to transform California’s agricultural landscape through public-private partnerships and sustainability marketing.
In this position, you can expect to:
Conduct in-depth research on tax incentive policies for regenerative agriculture, especially as it relates to the state’s climate change goals.
Develop a comprehensive database and interactive Storymaps of California's agricultural landscape to aid in the creation of a regenerative transition strategy.
Compile data and research at the county level that will support regenerative practices.
Engage and conduct interviews with key stakeholders, including California farmers, policy experts, and advocacy organizations.
Contribute to research that will facilitate sustainability outreach.
Role: 1. Tax Policy Research and Analysis: Investigate existing tax incentives in other sectors including EV’s and clean energy, analyze their effectiveness, and research innovative approaches to apply these to the agricultural sector.
2. Geospatial Mapping and Database Development: Create a detailed map of California's agricultural landscape using ArcGIS and Storymaps. Develop a comprehensive database including farm sizes and key focus regions for regenerative transition.
3. Stakeholder Engagement and Outreach: Research and compile a database of California-centric organizations, activists, and politicians involved in agricultural policy and sustainability. Research strategies for engaging these stakeholders.
5. Sustainability Communication: Create compelling visual representations of research findings, including an interactive, public-facing Storymap to illustrate the potential for regenerative transition across California.
Qualifications: Background in environmental science, policy studies, agricultural sciences, or related fields
Proficiency in ArcGIS Storymaps
Interest in policy research and analysis
Interest in campaign strategy or advocacy work
Strong research and data analysis skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Other Skills -
Familiarity with California's agricultural landscape
Knowledge of regenerative agriculture principles
Diversity:
We strongly encourage undergraduates passionate about regenerative agriculture and policy, even if they have not yet had any research experience, to apply. We are a LGBTQ+ led team, and encourage all backgrounds to apply. Our team is committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity in all aspects of our research and providing mentorship to interested students.
Day-to-day supervisor for this project: Kristina Lapinski, Staff Researcher
Hours: 9-11 hrs
Off-Campus Research Site: This research position can be completed remotely with flexible hours. Occasional travel for field research or stakeholder meetings may also be available.
Arts & Humanities Social Sciences Engineering, Design & Technologies Environmental Issues