Validation of the RothC-biochar model for simulating carbon stock in tropical soils

• Grant number: 25/14148-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships abroad - Research Internship - Post-doctor
• Start date: January 05, 2026
• End date: July 09, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Agronomy - Soil Science
• Principal Investigator: João Luís Nunes Carvalho
• Grantee: Amanda Ronix Pereira
• Supervisor: Peter Smith
• Host Institution: CENTRO ESTUDOS CARBONO AGRICULTURA TROPICAL/USP
• Institution abroad: University of Aberdeen, Scotland
• Associated to the scholarship: 25/01169-6 - Biogeochemical modeling of carbon stock changes in tropical soils amended with biochar, BP.PD

Abstract

In the last two decades, several studies have utilized biogeochemical models to evaluate the impact of different edaphoclimatic conditions on soil carbon storage and the dynamics of soil organic carbon. At the same time, biochar, a carbon-rich material obtained from the pyrolysis of biomass residues, has been identified as a promising material for carbon sequestration. However, current models do not adequately incorporate the role of biochar in soil management. In this context, the main objective of this project is to parameterize, calibrate and validate the RothC-Biochar model to estimate the potential for carbon sequestration in tropical soils. The first stage of this project, which is already underway in Brazil, focuses on the collection and systematization of empirical data from long-term field experiments involving the application of biochar in tropical soils. This phase is crucial for addressing key knowledge gaps regarding the effects of biochar on soil carbon dynamics under tropical conditions. The empirical dataset generated during this stage will provide the necessary foundation for the second phase of the project, ensuring that the validation model is suitable for tropical soil conditions. The second stage, proposed within the scope of this Research Internship Abroad (BEPE) project, will be carried out in collaboration with Professor Pete Smith at the University of Aberdeen, a leading expert in biogeochemical modeling and climate change mitigation. This stage will involve comprehensive parameterization, calibration, and validation of the RothC-biochar model, aiming to enhance its applicability and predictive capacity for tropical environments. This collaboration will also foster scientific exchange and methodological refinement, contributing to the development of robust tools to support evidence-based decision-making in soil carbon management.