SHARE Summer 2025: Research Opportunity with Dr. Phil Birge-Liberman

Project Mentor

Dr. Phil Birge Liberman
Department: Geography, Sustainability, Community and Urban Studies


Research Project Overview:

This project uses the Keney Park Sustainability Project in Hartford as a case study in agro-eco wellness. The research apprentice will assist in collecting and analyzing the literature at the agroecology-sustainable urbanism-wellness nexus:

Agroecology is a sustainable farming approach that integrates agricultural practices with ecological principles and social justice. It aims to create resilient food systems that promote environmental sustainability, social equity, and the well-being of communities through local, knowledge-driven solutions.

Sustainable urbanism is an approach to city planning and development that prioritizes environmental, social, and economic sustainability. It aims to create resilient, livable urban spaces that minimize ecological footprints while enhancing the well-being of all city residents.

Wellness is a holistic state of well-being that encompasses physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health. It goes beyond the absence of illness by focusing on actively making healthy choices and adopting habits that promote a balanced and fulfilling life.


Role of a SHARE Summer Apprentice:

The research apprentice will become proficient in library research, evaluating research, and writing an annotated bibliography.


Summer Schedule/Time Commitment:

The expected workload is an average of 7 hours per week or about 90 hours throughout the summer. The research apprentice has flexibility in scheduling their work hours. Communication will be by email. There will be weekly meetings to start, but then they will become less frequent as the work progresses.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Interest in social sciences.
  • Previous coursework in History, Urban Studies, Environmental Studies, American Studies, Sociology, or related field.
  • Ability to work independently and follow through on commitments.

To Apply:

The application opens on Saturday, March 1, 2025.  Click here to submit an online application for this research apprenticeship through the Quest Portal. The application deadline is Friday, March 28, 2025, at 11:59pm.

Click here to view an outline of the general application questions. There are no additional questions for this apprenticeship application.

Please note:
All students hired for a SHARE Summer apprenticeship must complete a federal I-9 form and present original documents in person to OUR staff as part of the hiring process. Visit this U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services page for more information about acceptable documents. You cannot begin working until this is complete. Students are encouraged to plan ahead for this. For example, if you are going home for spring break, consider bringing original documents back to campus with you.