Biogeochemical Cycles

More about the specialisation

Did you know that human-induced climate change also has an impact on the biogeochemical cycles of the elements carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus? And at the same time that biogeochemical processes are key for mitigating climate change?

In the specialisation Biogeochemical Cycles, students will learn about the main features of the global cycles of the most common elements in a changing environment influenced by human activities. The study track focuses on the chemical and (micro)biological controls of major elemental cycles as well as the interactions and feedbacks between these cycles. Students analyse contemporary elemental cycles both within and between the major interconnected earth system compartments, with a focus on the atmosphere, vegetation and soils. They assess the past, present and future impact of climate change on these cycles.

The specialisation Biogeochemical Cycles will challenge students to answers questions like:

• How does nutrient availability control the response of ecosystems to climate change?
• How does the impact of various carbon-based mitigation strategies vary across different geographical regions?

To find answers, students may employ several state-of-the-art methods used in biogeochemical research. These methods include large-scale field experiments and measurements, but also controlled laboratory and greenhouse experiments, ecosystem and earth system modelling, and theoretical approaches.

Students can learn more about the education and research related to this specialisation by visiting the website of the Soil Chemistry group, the Meteorology and Air Quality Group and the Water Systems and Global Change Group.