The field of Soil Science applies biology and microbial ecology, chemistry, earth sciences, ecology, hydrology, mineralogy, mathematics, nutrition, toxicology, and physics. Soil Science examines the formation, distribution, function and management of soils to understand, sustain, and improve the environment. Soil is a key component of natural, agricultural, and wildland ecosystems that sustains all global processes.
A diverse range of research tools are implemented, such as geospatial analysis, computer modeling, microscopy, spectroscopy, bioassays, molecular biology, and other advanced field and lab technology for soil investigation. Soil scientists provide expertise in food production and safety, environmental quality, ecosystem sustainability, ecological restoration, beneficial recycling of byproducts, and land use planning. The soil scientists in the School of Environment and Natural Resources (SENR) investigate issues such as carbon sequestration, recycling of nutrients, restoration of contaminated soils, and assimilation of waste products.
Active Graduate Advisors:
Nicholas Basta
Steve Culman
Matt Davies
Scott Demyan
Richard Dick
Jeffory A. Hattey
Rattan Lal
Brian Lower
Steven Lower
Edward McCoy
Brian Slater
Christine Sprunger
Van Ryan Haden
Recent Theses and Dissertations (available on OhioLink*)
*OhioLink articles available to OSU students, faculty, and staff
**Students advised by SENR faculty in other OSU graduate programs