Submitted by Miguel Altieri on
Urbanized areas are the fastest-growing habitat type worldwide; over 80% of the world's population is expected to reside in cities by 2060. Studying urban food system function will be incredibly crucial for current and future urban residents. The San Francisco Bay Area has a rich history of urban agriculture that continues to significantly impact food security in local communities – often producing over 20 lbs. of produce per square meter. Research apprentices will participate in a long-term, ongoing project exploring ecological function and regulating ecosystem services in urban farms and gardens.
This project focuses on identifying drivers of pest damage in urban farms and understanding what on-farm practices can be used to promote biological control of pests and reduce crop loss. Research interns will participate in three research initiatives: 1. Collect, sort, and analyze data; 2. Learn stereomicroscopy and identify parasitoid wasps to family and sub-family; and 3. Prepare insects for collection; Ideal candidates will be prepared to follow a research schedule, work independently, spend time in the lab on microscopes, and be enthusiastic about food security and sovereignty issues.
Applicants will work join an established team of undergraduates and volunteers under the supervision of Ph.D. candidate Joshua Arnold.
Sorting and preparing field samples, stereomicroscopy, identification of insects to family/sub-family.
Comfortable around insects. Willing to learn. Ability to work independently.