Summer 2026

Anna Babski

During my summer in Spain, I helped with organic farming research at the Universitat Politècnica de València. I worked in a chemistry laboratory in the School of Agricultural and Natural Environment Engineering with my mentor Lola Raigón. In the lab, I analyzed the composition of orange albedo / pith (the white spongy inner layer) to determine macro- and micro-nutrient content. I also assisted with preparing and processing samples of soil and of tiger nut tubers / chufa. Outside of the lab, I joined field trips to tour local organic farms and production facilities, where we learned about examples of organic farming techniques and real-world applications, and I attended the BioDiversity Grow conference discussing biodiversity impacts on farms. Overall, I gained lots of experience with various laboratory techniques and I learned so much about organic sustainable agriculture and life in Spain. It was an amazing experience living in Valencia for two months and traveling around Spain!