Biogeochemistry is commonly defined as the study of the biological and geochemical processes that regulate the structure and function of ecosystems, with a focus on the cycling of matter and energy across space and time. The Soil Biogeochemistry Lab at the Holden Arboretum applies biogeochemical principles as a means to understand mechanistic linkages between biological and chemical processes in soil and the structure and function of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Soil represents a fundamental interface between the biosphere and the atmosphere and is a site for many of the chemical reactions that are important for life on earth. For example, soils are important for plant growth and food production as well as regulation of global climate. Nevertheless, soils are an under-appreciated resource and sensitive to a variety of human disturbances.
Examples of soil in northern hardwood forests of the Great Lakes region.
Research in the Soil Biogeochemistry Lab takes a "belowground" approach to how ecosystems will respond to current and future alterations of climate, deposition of atmospheric pollutants and nutrients, and the introduction and establishment of pathogens and invasive species. In particular, we are interested in understanding the mechanisms by which plants and microbial communities respond to such environmental changes and, ultimately, quantifying how those biochemical and physiological responses influence ecosystem-level processes and broad ecological patterns. Please visit our links above to learn more about the lab and current projects.
