Dr. Blankinship uses observational and manipulative experiments to better understand the mechanisms underlying soil greenhouse gas emissions, soil organic matter stabilization, soil aggregate formation, soil nutrient dynamics, soil water retention, and ecosystem responses to global environmental changes. Developing a mechanistic view of these critical ecosystem processes will lead to improved biogeochemical projections and the most effective strategies for soil conservation, dust abatement, drought adaptation, soil carbon sequestration, and other metrics of sustainability in both managed and relatively unmanaged systems.