Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences Kravchenko Lab

Research Interests

 

My overarching research interest is multi-scale biogeochemical soil ecology; macro and micro-scale drivers within and beyond our soils greatly influence its functionality and the quality of life for organisms dependent on it. 

 

My research seeks to understand and trace the micro-scale belowground structures influencing soil profile dynamics (SOC stabilization, nutrient exchange) to characterize their effect on macro-scale assessments and management (regenerative soil systems). Conversely, it is necessary to inversely assess such dynamics, from macro to micro-scale, to understand how landscape-scale conditions drive belowground responses to shifts in local regime change and habitat dynamics. Our research team enables analysis of questions related to scaling biogeochemistry in soils through X-ray tomography, fluorescence, absorption, spectroscopy, and  laser ablation.

 

My previous work at the Houghton PEATcosm rhizotron facility enabled me to explore and interact with live rhizomes face-to-face (through a thick glass panel for my protection). This formative experience inspired me to consider the scaling aspects of biogeochemical processes beneath our feet and their challenging visualization through comprehensive tools including GIS and remote sensing.