The Agroecology Extension (AX) Summer Research Fellowship is a fully paid 10 weeks research and outreach experience open to undergraduates from across the U.S. It is a collaboration between the University of Vermont (UVM)'s Extension and the Plant and Soil Science Department, and coordinated by the Agroecology and Livelihoods Collaborative on UVM’s main campus in Burlington, VT. This work builds on a related effort to engage undergraduates in co-learning through Participatory Action Research.

The AX Fellowship is designed for students who seek to deepen their knowledge of sustainable agricultural approaches and to develop transdisciplinary research and outreach skills. It will match students with UVM faculty working directly with farmers on extension research projects to develop innovative agroecological approaches in support of farmer livelihoods. 

Main goals of the program:

• Match students with UVM faculty and staff working directly with farmers to develop innovative approaches in support of farmer livelihoods
• Provide students with a transdisciplinary learning experience focused on developing adaptable research, leadership, and outreach skills
• Support and contribute to new and ongoing Extension outreach projects dedicated to UVM's Land Grant mission
• Help prepare students for careers and graduate education in agroecology, food systems, and extension

Program logistics:

The AX Fellowship starts 31 May 2022, and runs for 10 weeks, M-F 9am-5pm.

• Students will receive a $4,000 stipend.
• On-campus housing or a housing allowance is provided.
• Fieldwork will take place on commercial and research farms. 
• Project locations are dependent upon the mentor’s research.
• Personal transportation is preferred but not required.

Applications will be accepted through the UVM Office of Fellowships, Opportunities, and Undergraduate Research (FOUR) Internal Research Funding website.

The application deadline is 4 March 2022.