Critical Zone Dynamics ¶
Our group studies the dynamics and interactions within the Critical Zone, the thin surface layer of the Earth that stretches from the tops of tree canopies down to the base of groundwater. Positioned at the intersection of soil science, hydrology, and geology, we combine tools and concepts from these fields in our work. Our research is motivated by global challenges such as rising temperatures, intensifying hydrological extremes, and land use change, and their impacts on terrestrial landscapes. In particular, we focus on biogeochemical processes in the deeper unsaturated zone and in groundwater - exploring how these processes connect to surface ecosystems and the global carbon cycle. We are mainly funded by an SNSF Starting Grant awarded for the project RESPIRE.
Our methods include the establishment of sophisticated subsurface monitoring frameworks that provide in-situ and near real-time observations of environmental conditions. We also apply geochemical methods to analyse gaseous, liquid and solid samples from soils, the unsaturated zone, and groundwater systems.
Staff ¶
Critical Zone Dynamics
Group leader |