School of Law student has abstract accepted for 2020 International Conference of Undergraduate Research (ICUR)
The ICUR is an annual, two-day academic conference that showcases the best in undergraduate research from around the world.
School of Law final year LLB student Alessia D'Onofrio’s abstract ‘The Frames Behind The Gadda Law - A Theoretical Analysis Of Italian Law To Evaluate Its Adequacy To Tackle Retail Food Waste’ has been accepted for the 2020 International Conference of Undergraduate Research (ICUR).
Alessia, who is originally from Milan, told us ‘In September, I will have the opportunity to present my research project to my peers and faculty across ICUR international partner institutions. I will evaluate the adequacy of the Gadda Law in tackling retail food waste through frame critical analysis, an important public policy methodology that highlights in particular the role of strategic framing. The intent of this evaluation is to encourage states to prefer structural change of the food system over redistribution to tackle food waste.
Moreover, my abstract will be published online as part of the ICUR 2020 programme after summer.
My aspiration is to become a researcher (in the field of International Law and Environmental Law) because I love the idea of shaping future debates with my work. This is what motivates me to look for opportunities to gain experience. Therefore, when the University of Leeds Portal shared that the applications for ICUR were open, I decided to put myself forward and submit the abstract of my dissertation.
Another reason why I decided to apply to ICUR is the guidance of my supervisor Dr Carrie Bradshaw throughout the whole dissertation writing process. Her constructive critiques made me feel proud of my project from the very beginning.’
Alessia originally became interested in food waste in her second year at Leeds when she discovered Rainbow Junktion, an anti food waste and anti food poverty café In Hyde Park.
‘Rainbow Junktion’s practices and culture called my attention towards food waste. It is an urgent social, economic, and environmental problem. However, it is often overlooked. As I believe that research can be really powerful to shed light on issues and debate, I decided to write my dissertation on the topic of food waste.’
Alessia is also in communication with the Italian Minister who promoted the Gadda Law, Deputy Maria Chiara Gadda.
‘I found her email address online and emailed her explaining that I had written my dissertation on the Law she has promoted, that it had been a really interesting project and that it may be interesting to share our findings, conclusions, and arguments. We have communicated via email and we are now planning a Zoom meeting which I am really excited about.’
Alessia told us that what she appreciates most about the Law School are the Community Engagement projects.
‘They represent a great opportunity to gain work experience and essential skills for students’ future careers, while also contributing to many honourable causes.’
Next year Alessia will be studying for a Master’s in International Law in London and after that, plans to apply for a PhD.
The School of Law is incredibly proud of Alessia and we are certain that she has a very bright future ahead of her.
