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