soil in containers

Soil and Water Science Research

Soil and Water Science examines the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil to advance sustainable land use, water management and agricultural productivity.

Soil and Water Science focus areas

  • Mineralogy
  • Pedology
  • Soil Chemistry and Fertility
  • Soil Microbiology
  • Soil Physics
  • Water Resources

Mineralogy

Study of the mineral composition of soils and how it influences soil properties, fertility, and land management.

The rocky face of a cliff

Faculty within minerology

Pedology

Research on soil formation, classification, and mapping to better understand and manage diverse soil landscapes.

Soil samples in tins on a table

Faculty within pedology

Soil chemistry and fertility

Research on soil nutrient dynamics and fertility management to optimize plant nutrition and long-term soil health.

a row of young cotton plants

Faculty within soil chemistry and fertility

Soil microbiology

Investigation of soil microbial communities and their roles in nutrient cycling, plant health, and ecosystem function.

Mycorrhiza fungi growing among plant roots

Faculty within soil microbiology

Soil physics

Study of the physical properties of soil, including structure, water movement, and aeration, and their impact on plant growth and land use.

young plants being watered

Faculty within soil physics

Water resources

Research on soil-water interactions and management practices that support water conservation and sustainable irrigation.

a large irrigation system

Faculty within water resources