Welcome

The MESS (Microbial Ecology and Soil Science) lab is driven by a deep fascination with the extraordinary diversity of life belowground—from microbes to invertebrates—and we aim to uncover the critical roles these communities play in shaping ecosystems. At the core of our research is a focus on how belowground biodiversity influences biogeochemical cycles, especially carbon, and how these interactions respond to anthropogenic and abiotic global change drivers. We take an integrative approach, combining field experiments, molecular tools, and biogeochemical analyses to explore these questions. Rooted in ecological theory, we are especially excited by the potential of soil microbes to both inform and challenge existing frameworks. Our goal is to bridge the disciplines of microbiology, ecology, and soil science to build a more unified understanding of how belowground life drives ecosystem function and responds to a changing world.