Revisiting soil lab analysis methods
Summary: Soil testing is an important part of managing plants and building safe roads and buildings. Unfortunately, many of the widely-used lab techniques in soil science are not standardized and yield variable results. This project will perform a systematic experiment to compare several techniques used to prepare and analyze soil particle size distributions. Other methods related to soil compaction and water content may be included. Students will learn to carefully collect data, perform quality-control checks, and analyze results using R and the ggplot2 package.
Core activities: Students will collect data in the lab and analyze the results. The focus will be sample dispersion using several mechanical pre-treatments.
Other notes: The results of this project will eventually be published in a peer-reviewed journal. If the participating student contributes significant intellectual contribution, they will be considered for co-authorship. Soils background is not required, but strong preference will be given to students with laboratory experience. We welcome students interested in applying their background in geotechnical engineering, earth/environmental/geoscience, horticulture, chemistry, physics, or other STEM background to an important challenge in soils research. This position is not funded but available for independent study credit.
Essay prompt: Why are you interested in science, and what do you hope to get out of the PROPEL research experience?
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Students will gain valuable laboratory experience to build their scientific resume. This includes the rigorous protocols and quality-control procedures needed to collect a high-quality dataset. These skills are applicable to many fields beyond soil science.