Researchers from Southern Sierra Critical Zone Observatory work in several disciplines and come from a variety of backgrounds. They all have their own story to tell. Take a look at this month's research spotlight Kimber Moreland, graduate student researcher at the University of California, Merced, and see how she got started in the field of critical zone science!

Q&A between Madeline Castro and Kimber Moreland

What is your field of interest/research? How did you become interested in this topic?

I am by training a biochemist but now specialize in soil biogeochemistry. I am fortunate to study climatic affects on soil carbon dynamics in the critical zone from the top of the trees to 10 meters deep into the Earth! When I was a little girl I would make mud pies with Earthworm/beetle toppings for my mom and sister and ever since then I have been fascinated by soil. When I was told that one teaspoon of healthy soil can hold over one billion bacteria I was truly flabbergasted. Understanding that soil is full of secrets and is the foundation of life sparked my curios mind and I decided to pursue my phD in soil biogeochemistry.

What CZOs have you conducted research at? What kinds of research did you do there?

I have worked primarily with the SSCZO but I have also received SAVI funding for a collaboration with the Catalina Jemez CZO. I am currently assessing climatic affects on the soil carbon stock, stability, and stoichiometry.

What do you feel is the most exciting part of your research?

Exploring the mysteries of the deep Earth keeps me awake at night and I am investigating to a depth that my field has mostly ignored especially in regards to climatic affects. I compare my work to exploring the depths of the ocean and I believe that I will unravel important information that needs to be communicated to the world.

Why is your field of study important?

Soil stores more carbon than the atmosphere and vegetation combined. Understanding how soil will respond to climate change is vital to the understanding of what our Earths future will look like. Some also believe that soil will help to mitigate and lessen the impacts of climate change by sequestering more C. The answer to climate change could be under our feet!

What you are most proud of in your research and/or academic/career experiences?

Apart from my research, I have challenged myself to influence my academic and local community and through this pursuit have found meaning and purpose in the numerous service and leadership opportunities I have taken advantage of. One pivotal experience that has shown me that I thrive in leadership roles through service is helping to found BIOTAQ, a STEM outreach program for local high schools. It is currently expanding to include several schools across the central valley. Through my dedication to service and outreach I have been fortunate enough to contribute to meaningful change in my community. This is my life mission and I am jazzed that I can combine my research passion with my mission here on Earth!

What is your favorite part of the Critical Zone (soil, water, rock, etc.) and why?

The CZ is truly captivating because the soil, water, air, vegetation, and living organism work together to create life. These systems are all intertwined and having the opportunity to ask questions about how the world around us works in a natural laboratory is truly fulfilling.

Edited by Michelle Gimore