Sylvie says soil science is fascinating and challenging, and studying it requires courage and curiosity.

Why is soil important?
Soil is vital to life on our planet. More than one-fourth of all species on Earth live in soils. Soils store carbon and recycle nutrients essential for plants, crops and animals.

What are some of the challenges of doing your research?
Soils are inherently complex. Researching how soils function and respond to their environment requires the ability to work from the landscape to the microscopic scale. This can be quite challenging, but the process and results are fascinating.

What are some qualities that make a good scientist?
Curiosity, open-mindedness, creativity, objectivity, critical thinking, passion, integrity and courage.