Nutrient fluxes in soils

Conventional soil analysis generates indirect information about nutrients, and much high-production agriculture suffers from huge inefficiencies and pollution as a result of ineffective fertilisers. This project uses novel micro-dialysis to quantify fluxes of nutrients in soil, a technique adapted from neuroscience for soils. High-resolution, real-time nutrient flux quantification advances understanding of the complex interface between soil and plants.

Location: St Lucia

Expected outcomes: laboratory and field techniques, with an understanding of organic compounds as signalling compounds and nutrients sources. Preparation for profession in research, industry or government

Supervisors: Professor Susanne Schmidt, Dr Richard Brackin

Before you apply: contact the primary supervisor for more details