Key research themes
1. How does soil texture influence nutrient availability and phosphorus dynamics in agricultural soils?
This research theme investigates the relationship between soil texture components (clay, silt, sand) and phosphorus availability, especially soil test phosphorus (STP) measured by Bray-1. Understanding how soil texture controls nutrient retention, sorption, and availability is critical for optimizing fertilizer management and forecasting nutrient deficiencies in cropping systems.
2. What are the historical and cultural perspectives on soil and land related to human settlement and land use?
This theme covers the socio-historical investigations into land tenure, power, and cultural meaning of soils and landscapes, particularly focusing on medieval land assemblies, architectural integration with natural landscapes, and heritage conservation of landscapes and built environments. Such studies provide context for soil use and management reflecting historical human-soil-land relationships.
3. How do human cultural practices and art engage with natural elements and landscapes historically and contemporaneously?
This theme explores the intersection of artistic expression with natural landscapes and elements such as soil and water. It covers the influence of environmental contexts on art and architecture, the symbolic use of color derived from natural pigments, and contemporary artistic reflections and interventions on land and memory.