Richardson

Soil biogeochemistry is a broad field, examining the movement of nutrient and toxic elements between nonliving and living materials. My research focuses on how metals and metalloids are sourced from nonliving materials (rocks, minerals) and move via water and air to and from soils. We study natural and human disturbed terrestrial systems, predominantly in the eastern United States. Our laboratory applies x-ray, light, and mass-based instruments coupled with traditional and advanced chemical techniques to measure phases of nutrient and toxic metals in solid and aqueous phases. The core mission is to ensure sustainable element cycling in natural forests and agroecosystems and protect human and ecosystem health from toxic element exposure.

[Curriculum Vitae]