Soil biophysics is an interdisciplinary field that combines soil sciences with biology and physics to explore the interactions between the physical properties of soil and life within soils. Fundamental soil properties such as structure, porosity, and moisture not only shape the activities of plants and microorganisms but are also influenced by these biological entities, creating a complex feedback loop.
At the Professorship for Soil Biophysics and Environmental Systems, we are dedicated to understanding the pivotal role of soil physics in supporting and shaping life within terrestrial ecosystems. A significant focus of our work is on the challenges posed by soil drying. This global issue restricts water and nutrient transport within the soil, severely constraining the resources available to plant and microbial life.
Our research and educational activities take a holistic view, incorporating elements of regenerative farming practices aimed at enhancing soil health and quality. We delve into the mechanisms through which soil properties and plant communities can be managed to foster robust soil ecosystems that support sustainable agricultural productivity and forest health.
This comprehensive approach extends beyond the theoretical to have tangible applications in agriculture and environmental management. By elucidating the complex interactions among soil, plants, and microorganisms, particularly under environmental stresses, our work provides critical insights that bridge academic research with practical solutions. These insights are crucial for developing sustainable management strategies that enhance soil ecosystem services and improve the resilience of agricultural and forest ecosystems against climate variability.
Through our commitment to understanding and improving soil ecosystem function and plant-soil interactions in agricultural and forest systems, we aim to contribute to the development of farming practices that not only preserve but regenerate soil health, ensuring long-term sustainability and productivity.