Research Seminar: Cluster Hire in LFS Applied Biology, Sustainable Agriculture and the Environment, and CSFS at UBC Farm
Bridging soil processes and plant-microbiome interactions as a new framework for sustainable food systems: the example of silicon biogeochemistry
Dr. Jean-Thomas Cornelis
Associate Professor
Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech
Université de Liège
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Sustainable agriculture practices rely on the understanding of soil processes and associated soil-plant interactions in landscapes impacted by natural and anthropogenic changes. The silicon (Si) cycle interplays with CO2-driven climate change and can play a pivotal role in the food production resilience to environmental changes. While the Si cycle was long seen as being geologically driven, recent research advances revealed a strong biological imprint. Soil-plant interactions govern the terrestrial Si cycle through plant-induced silicate weathering combined to Si biocycling and the return of highly soluble plant-derived Si to the topsoil. By converting inorganic Si into plant-derived Si through soil weathering and Si uptake, plants affect Si mobility in terrestrial ecosystems. Here, we will discuss soil processes governing the interactions between the mineral and biological parts of the Si cycle in the context of global challenges we are facing: to promote climate-smart and environmentally friendly agro-ecosystems that meet food demand.
When and Where?
- June 20, 2019 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- MacLeod Building, Room 254
About the Presenter
Dr. Jean-Thomas Cornelis, Université de Liège
Dr. Jean-Thomas Cornelis is an Assistant Professor of Soil Science at ULiege (Belgium). He received his PhD in soil science in 2010 (UCLouvain, Belgium) and was FNRS postdoctoral Fellow at UBC in 2011. His research investigates soil processes controlling biogeochemical cycles of nutrients and how soil-plant feedback interactions respond to environmental changes. His process-based approach focuses on the soil system, which by definition integrates processes at different scales and with different disciplines. Jean-Thomas aims to strengthen the leading position of soil conservation to meet the challenge of a sustainable agriculture. He takes as an advantage the complexity and diversity of soil processes to teach students the notion of critical thinking and complex thought. Daddy of two little boys, outdoor enthusiast, big fan of surrealism, he loves to brainstorm new ideas and has always been passionate by philosophy of science and ethical consideration of emerging technologies.
This seminar is part of the LFS Applied Biology Faculty Cluster Hire in Sustainable Agriculture and the Environment. Ten short-listed candidates will be giving seminars in May and June as part of their intensive interview process. Click here see a full list of events.