Daisy Alston

This year (2024) I have set up experiments which investigate methods to enhance subsoil carbon sequestration in an agricultural setting. These experiments include (a) the burial of organic matter, specifically woodchip and straw at different depths, with the control, topsoil straw/woodchip incorporation, (b); a deep rooting experiment which investigates rooting impact on greenhouse gas emissions and aboveground biomass, (c) a deep rooting experiment based in columns which investigate how subsoil nutrient availability may influence the effectiveness of deep rooting plant species for carbon sequestration. If these strategies are successful, it may revolutionize the way we can preserve carbon in the terrestrial biosphere. Furthermore, the methods being tested are farmer-friendly, meaning that methods will not result in losses in agricultural productivity or inflict farmers will unfamiliar technologies. 

I have had experience of conducting research in an external live-farming environment, as part of my MSc dissertation and as a casual worker. This means I have seen firsthand the constraints and practicalities of rolling out soil management strategies alongside productive farming and stakeholder concerns. Experience obtained from a placement year at the National Trust and work experience at a local wildlife charity means I have also witnessed the challenges in upholding policies and reducing wildlife and environmental conflicts whilst maintaining positive public relations.

Analytical skills include the application of soil extractions and the use of a micro plate, TXRF analysis, flamephotometry and experimental design.  The use of licor and greenhouse gas measurements and flux calculations for data processing and visualisation. 

Funding body: Bangor University.