Research Track Student ExperiencesGillian Bergmann
Ph.D. student in Ecology
Research: Microbial ecology in seeds research exchange (France)
Related UN Sustainable Development Goals: SDG 2: Zero Hunger; SDG 15: Life on Land
“The program also allowed me to participate in the Global Leadership Certificate, which taught me about cultural humility and approaching my exchange through a global perspective.
The Global Grad Grants provide funding opportunities for UC Davis graduate or professional students traveling to participate in a globally-focused social impact program or in a globally-focused research opportunity or program during the summer.
UC Davis faculty have proposed a new general education requirement mandating climate crisis education for all undergraduates, aiming to equip students across all disciplines with the knowledge and skills needed to address climate change and promote sustainability.
Spending the summer documenting animal management practices on California dairy farms was both eye-opening and rewarding for Ph.D. student Christian Bernal-Córdoba. From navigating cultural and language barriers to witnessing the real-world impact of antimicrobial use, this experience deepened Christian's research and reinforced the power of lived expertise in shaping sustainable solutions.
One of the ways UC Davis students can get involved with the UN Sustainability Development Goals is through the SDGs Internship, where interns develop SDG-focused programming, identify SDG implementation opportunities, outreach about the SDGs, and more.
Kelly Mae Heroux, a third-year grad student in Soils and Biogeochemistry, received a Global Grad Grant to tackle food insecurity through agrivoltaics and community service. Her work bridges local action with global goals, fostering sustainable solutions and collaboration in Yolo County.
The United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development includes 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth is a goal that encapsulates inclusivity and sustainability in relation to economic growth. The Redwood SEED Scholars Program at the University of California, Davis, aligns with SDG 8.
Felicia Zhornitsky spent a month in Peru, volunteering with Sacred Valley Health to support community health workers in Quechua-speaking villages. This experience deepened her commitment to culturally sensitive, community-based healthcare and reinforced her dedication to pursuing a medical career that bridges healthcare systems and underserved populations.
