Regenerative Agriculture Policy & Food System Infrastructure Research Positions
Nicole Starosielski, Professor
Film Studies
Applications for Spring 2025 are closed for this project.
In response to the critical role of regenerative agriculture in combating climate change, we seek to conduct groundbreaking research that will drive the development of innovative policies in California to catalyze widespread adoption of regenerative practices. Our team is working to transform California's agricultural landscape through cutting-edge public-private partnerships and data-driven strategies. We invite passionate researchers to join us in this critical endeavor, where your work will directly influence policy decisions and contribute to a more regenerative future.
As a member of our research team, you'll have the opportunity to engage with stakeholders, compile key datasets, and contribute to the development of strategies that will strengthen California's approach to regenerative agriculture and climate change mitigation. We offer two exciting project opportunities.
Join us in this exciting opportunity to make a real impact on California's agricultural future and contribute to the fight against climate change!
Role: Project 1: Regenerative Agricultural Policy and Stakeholder Mapping
Weekly Hours: 6-8 hrs
Project Overview:
This project aims to create a comprehensive landscape analysis of California's current agricultural policy ecosystem. You will conduct in-depth research to identify and analyze key players, current legislative efforts, and innovative policy approaches in the realm of regenerative agriculture.
Key Responsibilities:
Develop a robust database of California-centric organizations and key players involved in agricultural policy.
Conduct research on policy proposals with a focus on systems thinking legislation addressing agricultural climate policy.
Analyze the interconnections between various stakeholders and policy initiatives to identify potential synergies and areas for collaboration.
Investigate successful policy models from other global regions that could be adapted to California's unique agricultural context.
Project 2: Food System Infrastructure and Resilience
Weekly Hours: 6-8 hrs
Project Overview:
Led by the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), this project focuses on enhancing the resilience of California's food supply chain by supporting small and mid-sized farms and food businesses. By prioritizing sustainability and climate-smart practices, the initiative seeks to create thriving local communities, strengthen food security, and promote fair economic opportunities. Together with Roots of Change (ROC), the University of CA at Davis, Institute of the Environment (UC Davis), and the Council of Development Financing Agencies, this project will serve to improve supply chain resilience for small and mid-size regional producers, and inform strategic infrastructure investments and future policy directions.
Research Needs:
Conduct a comprehensive literature review of food system infrastructure projects in other states to identify:
Gaps they were working to solve
Implemented solutions
Funding methods
This review will inform areas that may need focus in California and contribute to the types of questions asked during meetings with community stakeholders. (First half of semester)
Perform in-depth food system research to:
Identify key state actors that may influence infrastructure projects
Determine stakeholders impacted by projects and gaps
Map ongoing initiatives within the food system
Identify upcoming grants that could support food infrastructure development
Catalog NGOs, government agencies, and service providers with a stake in food infrastructure
In the second half of the semester:
Categorize stakeholder entities the project is meeting with
Write concise biographies about entity missions and potential benefits from their infrastructure goals
Create compelling cases for future recommendations
As infrastructure needs are stated by stakeholders, conduct technical research of industry alternatives to identify optimal technologies:
Investigate various food processing technologies (e.g., washing, cutting, canning)
Analyze different machinery and technologies for each process
Identify alternatives and evaluate tradeoffs between them
Qualifications: Qualifications:
We seek passionate undergraduate students with a keen interest in regenerative agriculture, environmental policy, and data-driven advocacy. Ideal candidates should be able to work both independently and collaboratively, demonstrating strong research and analytical skills.
Required Qualifications:
Background in environmental science, policy studies, agricultural sciences, or related fields
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:
Interest or 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 an 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: 6-8 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