Center for Agroecology Research

With its blend of natural and social sciences staff, faculty partners, and students, the Center supports research in a variety of areas, with an emphasis on projects designed to improve organic farming practices and increase the sustainability of local food systems. Partners in these efforts include members of farming, environmental, policy, and community groups interested in sustainable agriculture and food systems and much of this work takes place directly with growers on their farms, as well as on the Center’s 30-acre organic farm at UCSC.

Current research projects that Center for Agroecology is participating in or collaborating on include organic soil pathogen control in strawberries, organic no- and limited-till agriculture, insect diversity and ecosystem services in urban agroecosystems, ecological aquaculture and more. 

Research Opportunities

The Center's Farm and Garden facilities are open to faculty, staff, and students interested in pursuing field or laboratory research. Researchers from other institutions, such as Cooperative Extension, may also collaborate on Center research projects or propose new projects. For information on conducting research at the Center for Agroecology/UCSC Farm, contact Farm Site and Research and Education Coordinator Damian Parr at dmparr@ucsc.edu. Please see the Center for Agroecology Research Protocol and Cost Worksheet for more detailed information. 

The UC Global Food Initiative offers a student fellowship program for undergraduates and graduate students to work on research projects or internships related to food security, agroecological practices, and resource conservation.