Fall 2019 “Profiles” Issue
Message from the Department Chair
{Photo 2019-2020 Soil Science Graduate Students}
We just graduated our 500th PhD student – exactly 101 years after our first PhD student graduated. Soil science has changed much in the past 100 years. It went from a somewhat descriptive science with few theories but a strong urge to make a difference, to a primary science that has contributed directly or indirectly to the welfare of humankind.
The soil science discipline continues to evolve. Some of that comes from improved theory, new instrumentation and technological development. In a sense, the situation is the same as half a century ago when, for example, radioactive and heavy isotopes became widely available accompanied by instrumentation like flame and atomic absorption spectrometers, emission and mass spectrographs, X-ray diffractometers and fluorescence, spectrophotometers, column and gas chromatographs, and the first computers. Progress in instrumentation allowed improved soil testing for better guidance of fertilizer use, or improved water management. Other developments which aided soil research were advances in statistics and design of field experiments, theories on ion transport from the solid phase to the root surface, and the improved understanding of soil physical processes. Our department has been on the forefront of these developments.
Now we are experiencing a similar upsurge with better measuring and modeling tools, and expanding technology that coincides with demands on our discipline to help solve the global environmental challenges. These are not small challenges, and they are different at different scales. We always strive to conduct the best science, excel in teaching, and provide extension and outreach that makes a real difference in a way our soils are managed. The urge to make a difference is deeply rooted in all that we do. We are fortunate to attract some of the best students, and will continue to graduate them with skills and insights so that they know the forefronts and the work that needs to be done. During their study, we aim to unleash their creativity, curiosity, and determination to become successful. It took 101 years to graduate our first 500 PhD students in soil science. And we think it is only the beginning, for the world needs the best soil science. We thank you all for a most productive year, and the enduring support to our department. All of us in soils in Madison wish you a wonderful winter, and peace and joy in the New Year!
Alfred Hartemink, Chair
To access the rest of Vol. 11, No. 1 of “Profiles,” https://uwmadison.box.com/s/g6s94jzelpwy3fbdngym03kikvqqylaw
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