Undergraduate research assistant for project on environmental impacts of conventional and alternative beef production.

An undergraduate Research Assistant (RA) is needed to collaborate on a Ph.D. dissertation project that is examining the environmental impacts of conventional and alternative beef production. The study applies a nutrition lens to life cycle assessment (LCA) of environmental impacts to better understand which systems can provide healthier, more sustainable meat. The RA will conduct a literature review on meat composition, collect primary data via email and telephone, and will learn about cattle systems and the basics of LCA.

Commitment

• 133 hours (minimum commitment of 10-12 hours per week)
• Work will be conducted independently. Weekly or bi-weekly check ins with the PI (in person or via Skype) will be required.
• Start date mid-June/early July
• Stipend $2000 through the Tufts Institute of the Environment

Skills

Required

• Coursework in environmental science, biology, nutrition, animal science, or engineering
• Strong communication skills – oral (telephone and in-person) and electronic communications – are essential
• Willingness to call industry professionals via telephone
• Experience with Microsoft Office or equivalent
• Ability to work independently
• Strong organization skills and attention to detail

Preferred

• Passion for sustainable food and agriculture
• Familiarity with life cycle assessment or environmental impact assessment

To apply contact Nicole Tichenor nicole.tichenor@tufts.edu