Details of Award

NERC Reference : NE/P020348/1

Dirt Science: An introduction to soil systems

Lead Supervisor:: Dr J Hannam, Cranfield University, School of Water, Energy and Environment
Grant held at:: Cranfield University, School of Water, Energy and Environment

ENRIs:: Biodiversity; Global Change; Natural Resource Management
Science Topics:: Agricultural systems; Soil science; Environmental Informatics; Research approaches; Technol. for Environ. Appl.

Abstract:: Soils are a resource under pressure from various direct human exploitations and natural influences such as climate change. Understanding how soils operate to provide a wide variety of functions can help to manage this resource sustainably and ascertain their resilience to change. The proposed training initiative will provide the participants with fundamental knowledge of how soils fulfil the numerous functions they perform, including agricultural production, regulating water and climate, filtering and buffering water and pollutants, cycling nutrients, supporting biodiversity, and being part of our cultural heritage. The training initiative offers a coherent package that explores soil functions from a number of perspectives; what are they? how do they change in space and time? what functions are important for different people utilising soils? The course is innovative in the approaches introduced to recognise, measure and predict soil functions across field and landscape scales. Within the course participants are also challenged to generate impact from their research. The course offers an exceptional grounding for the next generation soil science research community, in terms of exposure to cutting edge science but also developing their professional research networks.

Authorised funds only

This training grant award has a total value of £60,000

Total - Other Costs
£60,000

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