Soil biology and biogeochemical cycles

Education facts

Code: BI1322

A large part of the global elemental cycles takes place in the soil. Here, energy, carbon and nutrients circulate between plants, dead organic matter, minerals, water and air. These fluxes are mediated by soil organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, animals and plant roots. These organisms and their activities are of crucial importance in agriculture and forestry, as well as for water quality and biodiversity. Ultimately, biological processes in soils have a major feed-back on the global climate. In this course we will learn about global biogeochemical cycles, and about soil organisms and their roles in these processes. We will not only provide theoretical concepts via course literature and lectures, but will provide hands-on experience in laboratory exercises, field excursions, interactive discussions and in projects on self-chosen topics. Furthermore, we will use our obtained knowledge to discuss how human practises may affect potential feedbacks between soils and biogeochemical cycles with an emphasis on land use, environmental problems and global change.

Entry requirements

Knowledge equivalent to: • 150 ECTS first-cycle courses, including • 60 ECTS in a scientific subject such as Biology, Agricultural Science, Soil Science, Earth Sciences, Environmental Science or Technology, • 15 ECTS Chemistry, • 15 ECTS Soil Science, Earth Sciences or Biology and • a level of English equivalent to upper-seconday-school English (Engelska 6).

Education offerings

Each offering has its own dates and conditions. Closed offerings are retained as history and do not mean that a new application is open.

• Soil biology and biogeochemical cycles

  Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences

  Uppsala

  Start date: 18 January 2027

  End date: 24 March 2027

  Pace of study: 100 %