Organic Farming Systems and Germplasm Evaluation - Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates Internship
APPLY NOW FOR INTERNSHIPS in Sustainable High-Value Horticultureand Processing Systems in Washington State.
This is a unique opportunity for undergraduates interested in careers in food systems. The Research and Extension Experiences for Undergraduates Internship (REEU). Selected undergraduate fellows will be paired with a WSU Faculty mentor for a 10 week summer internship. Participants will learn valuable skills, through research and extension activities, and receive a generous stipend, travel support, and lodging. Interns will work independently throughout the summer on a research or extension project with the guidance of their mentor and, at the end of the internship period, present the results at the Undergraduate Research Symposium at the WSU main campus in Pullman, WA.
USDA NIFA AFRI REEU Organic Farming Systems and Germplasm Evaluation
Background
While consumer demand for certified organic foods continues to increase, less then 1% of all farmland managed in the United States is certified organic. Similarly, very few of the commercially available vegetable, fruit, and livestock populations have been developed and evaluated for certified organic systems (less then 20%). WSU Twin Vista Ranch is a 26-acre, certified organic, diversified farm that produces heritage livestock breeds, rare and economically valuable fruit and vegetable crops and germplasm, and honey/beekeeping. Though there is an abundance of research and resources dedicated to conventional and commodity scale production systems in Washington, relatively few resources exist for organic, small-scale agricultural systems. WSU, along with researchers from all over North America, is working to address basic research questions regarding small-scale, organic production systems in the Maritime Northwest.
Description
The undergraduate research and extension fellow will work directly with WSU Food Systems Leader, Laura Lewis at the WSU Twin Vista Ranch, in Nordland, WA (Marrowstone Island). The fellow will assist in a variety of tasks relating to organic farming systems, such as plant propagation, germination studies, germplasm characterization, soil and landscape analysis for livestock integrated systems (agroforestry), and beekeeping. An independent research project will also be supported through the internship. Extension tasks may include assistance with workshop preparation and execution, development of extension fact sheets, and development of online/media content.
Fellowship Details
- Mentor: Laura Lewis
- Location: WSU Twin Vista Ranch, Nordland, WA
- Dates: May 29 – August 3
- Stipend: $4,500. (Housing Provided. Costs of Travel Covered)
Objective
To develop both hard and soft skills related to research and extension while addressing the needs of the organic industry by providing educational resources. This may be achieved by:
- Conducting original research that adds to the current body of organic production knowledge.
- Providing workshops and educational courses aimed towards training organic producers.
- Provide educational information in a variety of forms (extension publications, reports, videos, online course modules).
Responsibilities and Expectations
The fellow will meet regularly with mentor throughout the summer fellowship.
The fellow will be expected to complete an individual summer research project that will be presented at the WSU Undergraduate Research Symposium in Pullman, WA. This project will include a significant effort to be familiar with current literature related to organic production. In addition, the fellow will assist with the creation of extension resources that may include newsletter content, instructional online videos, workshops, and fact sheets. Along with the rest of the summer fellowship cohort, the fellow is required to attend the 1-week on-farm experience at the Quillasacut Farm School in Rice, WA at the beginning of the fellowship period.
Required Qualifications
Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student in a 4-year or 2-year postsecondary institution. Completed coursework in ecology and biology. Basic computer software proficiency (ie. Microsoft Office). Self-motivated.
Desired Qualifications
Working or educational experience with farming and/or organic systems. Familiarity with analyzing scientific literature. Video editing knowledge. Graphic design knowledge.