Soil biology and biogeochemical cycles

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.