Hi! My name is Takara, and I am entering the final year of my PhD researching peatland restoration. My project involves studying the biogeochemistry of peat soils and exploring how we can harness these processes to reduce decomposition and enhance carbon storage.
I am excited to be part of the committee. As a budding soil scientist, I am passionate about the importance of bringing soil science communities together, both to highlight the diverse career paths within the discipline and to educate the wider community about the importance of caring for our soils. I’m particularly excited about the opportunity to meet people from across the soil science community and contribute to making the discipline more accessible and engaging.
Outside of my research, I enjoy hiking around my home of sunny North Wales, wild swimming, and joining far too many book clubs! I’m looking forward to getting to know everyone and contributing to the committee over the coming year.
Hi, I am Emily, a final year PhD student at Northumbria University studying the impact of microfibre pollution on soil environments. I am specifically looking at the biodegradation of dyed and undyed plastic (e.g. polyester) and non-plastic (e.g. cotton and wool) textiles and how this alters soil properties.
Before starting my PhD, I worked as a researcher in industry for 5 years where I discovered a keen interest in method development. I am applying this during my PhD to the development of a method for microfibre extraction from soil that does not use harsh chemicals that may damage the microfibres or soils.
I am thrilled to be joining the BSSS Early Careers Committee and look forward to working with the team to support other ECRs.
I’m Theo, I am a first year PhD student in Ecology and Agri-Environmental Research at the University of Reading. My research focuses on linking above and below ground ecosystem services in conventional and novel legume systems. I’m particularly interested in mixing diverse cultivars, climate resilience and seed sovereignty. As part of the PhD I have undertaken a placement at ADAS, working in the entomology and field teams.
My previous research experience has included investigating soil classification methodologies at Defra, and regenerative farming transitions at Oxford. This follows a BSc in Geography at the University of Sheffield and MSc in Environmental Technology at Imperial College.
I was recently part of the BSSS team at the 5th International Soil Judging Contest in Nanjing, an exciting experience that led me to want to contribute more to the Society’s aims. When I’m not studying I’m an avid gardener and work to support community growing spaces in London.
Hi I’m Jacques, I am a PhD student at the University of Aberdeen researching how plant roots influence soil stability and erosion resistance. My work focuses on Ethiopia, where severe soil erosion during the rainy season causes extensive land degradation and threatens the livelihoods of many rural communities. Through my research, I aim to better understand how native plant species reinforce soils and improve resilience, helping to identify sustainable solutions for erosion mitigation and gully stabilisation.
I have a background in biochemistry, bioinformatics, and data analytics, having completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Birmingham before working in the data sector. My interest in plant-soil interactions and soil microbiology first drew me towards soil science, and over time I have become particularly fascinated by soil biophysics and nature-based approaches to addressing environmental challenges.
I joined the British Society of Soil Science two years ago and attended the Early Careers Conference in December 2025, where I particularly enjoyed the soil judging workshop and the opportunity to connect with other early-career soil scientists. I am delighted to join the Early Careers Committee and look forward to contributing to the soil science community and helping to organise engaging and impactful events.
Hi I’m Lauren, a second year PhD student at the University of Aberdeen researching the impacts that vining peas as a rotation crop can have on soil nitrogen and carbon. Before starting my PhD, I completed an undergraduate degree in Biosciences at Durham University where I undertook a one-year placement at ADAS as a field research technician. I gained valuable fieldwork and industry experience from this placement, and this along with my PhD collaboration with Birdseye has given me an insight into the importance of both research and industry in soil science. I’m therefore looking forward to working with the rest of the EC committee to create events and opportunities that will benefit all our members.
