In this U.S.-Argentina dissertation enhancement research project supported by the Americas Program of the Office of International Science and Engineering, Mr. Sean T. Berthrong works under the supervision of Dr. Robert B. Jackson, and in collaboration with Dr. Esteban G. Jobbagy of National University of San Luis, and with Dr. Gervasio Pineiro of the University of Buenos Aires in Argentina. The topic of this project is how human-induced vegetation change alters microbiological community composition and biogeochemical function in soils. The study will provide insight into the interactions between vegetation, microbes and ecosystem function.
This award supports the dissertation research of Mr. Berthrong, a graduate student, furthering the Program aim of investing in researchers at the earliest stages of their careers. The expected results will contribute to new insight into these vegetation-soil microbe interactions and will inform policy about the rate and extent of afforestation.
