Mechanistic modelling of crop growth dynamics to better understand soil-crop-atmosphere interactions

My PhD research lies in the field of biogeosciences, where I seek to understand the interactions between biological, chemical, and physical processes that drive crop and plant growth. My primary approach involves mechanistic, process-based modelling, developing digital twins of biogeochemical and ecohydrological processes to simulate plant growth dynamics. This interdisciplinary field is particularly exciting as it transcends traditional scientific boundaries, offering a more holistic perspective on how ecosystems function.

Two key areas of my research include modelling crop growth in the UK under future climate change scenarios and investigating the role of afforestation in sequestering carbon in soils following agricultural abandonment. These topics are highly relevant in the context of climate change and land-use transitions, where digital modelling can provide valuable insights into the complex interplay between environmental factors, plant growth, and carbon cycling. By leveraging process-based models, I aim to enhance our understanding of how environmental changes influence plant productivity and ecosystem services, contributing to more informed decision-making in agriculture and land management.