Applications are currently open for Sustainability Research Grants, as part of the Sustainability Research Scholars program. The program addresses sustainability through faculty-mentored undergraduate research.
The Sustainability Research Scholars program is now accepting applications for Sustainability Research Grants. Each academic year, one grant of $1,000 is awarded to a student conducting faculty-mentored undergraduate research related to sustainability.
The Sustainability Research Grants were initiated through the Class of 2010’s gift to the University. Sustainability research clearly addresses the concept of sustainability, furthers understanding of the interdependence of ecological and social/economic systems, or focuses on a major sustainability challenge. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals illustrate the breadth of sustainability and major sustainability challenges.
Zachary Diamond is a senior at Elon and a Sustainability Research Grant recipient. He is majoring in Environmental and Ecological Sciences and Statistics with a minor in GIS.
“Over the past three years, I’ve been conducting a sustainability-focused research project examining how different soil amendments (biochar, basalt rock dust, and used coffee grounds) influence soil organic carbon, pH, cation exchange capacity, and overall turfgrass health. The broader goal of the project is to evaluate whether alternative, lower-input soil amendments can improve soil function and carbon storage in managed landscapes such as lawns and golf courses,” Diamond said.
Zachary first found out about the Sustainability Research Scholars through faculty in the Environmental Science department. The grant has allowed him to purchase the necessary materials to test soil samples as part of his field experiment. It has also allowed him to present his findings at the ASA-CSSA-SSSA CANVAS Annual Meeting in Salt Lake City, Utah and connect with other scientists. More broadly, this research experience has helped him to grow his skills in data analysis and experimental design as well as improve his ability to communicate science to a wide variety of audiences.
“After interning this past summer at Vineyard Golf Club, a nationally recognized and preeminent organic golf course, I will be returning after graduation in May, where I hope to continue applying sustainability-focused agronomic management practices in the field,” said Diamond.
For more information on how to apply for the Sustainability Research Grant, visit Elon’s Endowed Grants website. The application is available online. Grant applications will be accepted until March 13 at 5 p.m. For more information on the Sustainability Research Scholars and other sustainable programs and initiatives at Elon, please visit the Office of Sustainability’s website.