Current Members
Prof. Céline Pallud
I aim to develop a strong program at the interface between soil physics, geochemistry and microbial ecology with a group composed of experimentalists and modelers, ready to take on the continuous challenge to be innovative, explore new fields of research and develop new lines of thinking. I am looking for creative, skilled and highly motivated students, interested in being part of a research group composed of people having a diverse background but a common interest in applying integrated multidisciplinary research to environmental soil problems.
If you have any questions or are interested in applying with me, feel free to write to me at cpallud-at-berkeley.edu. If you do so, please attach a CV and a detailed statement of your research experience and interests. You can also learn more about the ESPM application process here.
Graduate Students
My name is Sierra Yarnes, and I am a 3rd year PhD student. I am interested in understanding the dynamics and controls on dryland soil C, looking particularly at how microbial communities and decomposition change with environmental prssures.
My background is based mainly within Ecosystem Ecology. I received my B.S. in Ecology and Evolution, and Hydrologic Science and Policy from UC Santa Barbara. Here at Berkeley, I’ve moved from my previous undergraduate work in dryland soil respiration to uncovering persistence of soil C in dryland land covers, specifically biological soil crusts. My PhD will focus on using radiocarbon dating for soil C in biological soil crusts, answering questions surrounding the use of substrate pools under changes to warming and wetting regimes.
Along with my academic interests, personally I am very interested in and involved with outreach and science education. I have formal pedagogical training, and worked extensively as an educator in non-traditional STEM spaces. My goals are to make academia a more positive space for meaningful mentorship and educational experiences outside of traditional expectations.
I am Sara Khosrowshahi, a second-year Ph.D. student in Prof. Pallud’s lab. My research focuses on the intersection of science and policy, particularly groundwater quality and the involvement of beneficial users in shaping policies for forests impacted by California wildfires.
Why groundwater, you might wonder? My journey into this field was deeply influenced by my upbringing in my hometown. I grew up surrounded by rivers and spent many joyful moments floating in Lake Urmia, one of the saltiest lakes in the world. Growing up, I gained hands-on experience working in our family orchards. These experiences heightened my awareness of the effects of drought on lakes, rivers, and the groundwater resources crucial for farming communities. They instilled in me a profound respect for our natural environment and a steadfast commitment to tackling groundwater challenges.
As a mom and a Ph.D. student, my days are full and dynamic. I cherish time with my family and friends, enjoy good food and coffee, and whenever I can, I love to go hiking and reconnect with nature.
Here is the link to my Orcid account: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7385-1629
I’m Kelly Anne Tucker, currently studying soil-based carbon capture solutions in Dr. Pallud’s lab. I am also co-advised by Peter Nico, part of the Energy Geosciences Division at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL). As my academic path winded through food science, microbiology, an
d biogeochemistry, my passion for understanding the Earth’s intricate systems intensified. Climate change, our era’s looming challenge, made me curious about the crossroads where the biosphere, lithosphere, and hydrosphere converge. During my studies, I hope to further develop innovative climate mitigation strategies and bring awareness to effective climate policy.
As I journey towards my PhD, my goals stretch beyond science alone: I aim to foster an environment of inclusivity and understanding. Today, I aim for a PhD, not just for the love of science, but to build a community where every curious mind feels valued. And if you want to get to know more about me, or just chat over coffee, feel free to drop by or send a message via my LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-anne-tucker-74b15b111/. Looking forward to many exciting collaborations and conversations!
Undergraduate students
Natalie Grijalva is a Lab Assistant in the Pallud Lab, where she supports experiments in soil biogeochemistry. Her responsibilities include sample preparation, data analysis, and instrument maintenance. Natalie earned her B.A. in Environmental Earth Science with an emphasis in biogeochemistry from UC Berkeley, where she began assisting the Pallud Lab as an undergraduate research assistant. This experience sparked her interest in soil research.
Natalie is particularly passionate about soil research that addresses sustainability and climate solutions. Outside of the lab, she enjoys photography, hiking, and contributing to her local community.
My name is Holly Werner and I am completing my senior thesis through the Integrative Biology department with Prof Pallud’s Lab. My research is on PFAS migration from artificial turfs. I am passionate about the intersection of climate change and public health and developing management strategies at a community-based level. My mentor for this project is PhD candidate Sara Khosrowshahi Asl.
Outside of research, I spend much of my time teaching and creating science labs with BASIS, and coordinating Cal Habitat for Humanity’s advocacy and volunteer programming here in Berkeley. I also love to go climbing, knit, and am always looking for new study spots and cafes!
My name is Morgane Hanley (they/them), and I’m a fourth-year undergraduate studying Conservation and Resource Studies, with a focus on soil and plant ecology. My academic passion is in understanding and promoting ecosystem resilience in wetlands, particularly as a means of mitigating climate change and sea level rise. For my honors research project, I am working in Dr. Pallud’s lab to investigate the effects of hybrid cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora x S. foliosa) on soil biochemistry, including total carbon, carbon sequestration, and sulfur, compared to native pacific cordgrass (S. foliosa) in Bay Area wetlands. I am excited to continue developing my research skills and deepening my knowledge of soil science in this passionate community of researchers.