Jan Willem van Groenigen appointed Chair of Soil Biology

Van Groenigen studied soil science in Wageningen and obtained his PhD in geostatistics. During a postdoctoral position in California, he became fascinated by the impact of organisms on agricultural systems. “We found that ducks wintering in flooded rice fields improved soil fertility and reduced weed pressure. That made a lasting impression on me and has shaped my research ever since.”

After returning to Wageningen in 2002, Van Groenigen worked at Alterra, now Wageningen Environmental Research, on nitrogen cycling in soils and emissions of nitrous oxide (N₂O). “By chance, we discovered that earthworms can strongly affect these processes. That eventually led me to join the Soil Biology Group.”

Within the chair group, Van Groenigen wants to build on the course that has been set in recent years. “Soils are among our most valuable natural resources, but their sustainable use is under serious pressure. That is why I strongly support the group’s mission: to explore the potential of life to increase soil quality.”

In the coming years, he sees particular opportunities in circular agriculture and education. One of his priorities is to place greater emphasis on the recycling of nutrients and carbon in farming systems. “More and more recycled products from society are becoming available as fertilisers or soil amendments. I am convinced that soil biota can play an important role in making these materials more effective.”

Van Groenigen also intends to maintain a strong teaching role, especially in the bachelor’s programme. “That is where we can really inspire a new generation of students to become enthusiastic about soil biology.”

Jan Willem van Groenigen grew up on the island of Texel and studied soil science in Wageningen, graduating in 1994. After completing his PhD and a postdoctoral position in California, he returned to Wageningen. Since then, he has been affiliated with WUR, researching the interactions between soil biota and nutrient and carbon cycles. He succeeds Rachel Creamer as Chair of Soil Biology.