The Organic Farming Research Foundation offers part-time policy internship positions on an ongoing basis. The position focuses on analysis of public policies related to organic farming research and practices, including a range of tasks outlined below. Interns may arrange to receive academic credit in exchange for 8-16 hours of work per week. Graduate level interns may arrange to focus on an independent research project that correlates with their academic work.

The policy intern works closely with the Policy Program Director to address one or two issues of regional or national significance, in one or more of the following areas:

• Organic production and marketing standards
• Agricultural biotechnology
• Public resources for organic systems research and education
• Development of a national organic systems research agenda

Interns may also provide support for the Scientific Congress on Organic Agricultural Research (SCOAR), a nationwide collaboration of producers, scientists, and others initiated and facilitated by OFRF to plan and promote research and information exchange to understand and improve organic agricultural systems.

Other policy program activities include:

• Review of publications, legislation, and other informational materials for relevance to OFRF’s work;
• Analysis of existing and proposed policies for impact on organic farmers;
• Maintaining contact with SCOAR participants;
• Working with staff on SCOAR outreach and events.

Qualifications

• Graduate level candidates or undergraduates capable of graduate level work
• Substantial knowledge of organic farming production and research issues
• A basic understanding of public policy structures
• Interest in learning about regional and national agricultural policy
• Desire to work and learn in a casual but intense environment.

To Apply

If you are interested in joining our team please send a resume and letter of introduction to:

Policy program internship
OFRF
P.O. Box 440
Santa Cruz, CA 95061

or via email: