How tree diversity influences soil carbon and nitrogen accumulation in Canadian forests

Increasing soil carbon and nitrogen storage is critical for mediating climate change and sustaining soil fertility. A large number of biodiversity manipulation experiments have collectively suggested that high plant diversity increases soil carbon and nitrogen stocks; however, it remains untested whether such conclusions hold in natural ecosystems. We will analyse Canada’s National Forest Inventory database using structural equation modelling to test this relationship. Through this project, I will have opportunity to work with Prof. Reich to improve study design and analysis method for this project. I will publish this result on a top journal and get multiple training opportunities to advance my career during this project.

Faculty Supervisor:

Scott Chang

Student:

Partner:

University of Michigan

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Alberta

Program: