16TH INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH SCHOOL
Soul of the Soil
Ecology, soil science, zoology
What lies beneath our feet? Soil is not just dirt — it is a living system that supports plant life, sustains ecosystems, and shapes the environmental future of our planet.
The Soul of the Soil project offers a unique opportunity to engage in real scientific research and explore soils in the natural landscapes of Yakutia.
Soil profile
This is more than just learning theory — you will go through all stages of scientific research: from asking questions and developing hypotheses to data analysis and presenting your results.
Laboratory analysis of soil samples
During the project, you will:
- conduct field research in diverse habitats (river floodplains, terraces, alas depressions, and human-impacted areas);
- work with real soil profiles and collect samples;
- perform laboratory analyses (pH, nitrates, soil composition, and more);
- study living components of soil — from plant roots to soil mesofauna;
- analyze data and identify patterns like real researchers.
Soil sampling site
This project is ideal for those who:
• are interested in ecology and biology;
• want to try themselves as researchers;
• are ready for both fieldwork and lab work;
• seek hands-on scientific experience and new skills.
• are interested in ecology and biology;
• want to try themselves as researchers;
• are ready for both fieldwork and lab work;
• seek hands-on scientific experience and new skills.
Fieldwork
Participants Requirements: We invite students from 14 years old with basic knowledge of ecology.
Tutors
Gleb Babich
Moscow, Russia
Moscow, Russia
Gleb is a graduate of the Faculty of Biology of Lomonosov Moscow State University (Bachelor’s degree) and a graduate of the Faculty of Soil Science of Lomonosov Moscow State University (Master’s degree), Researcher at the Scientific Center “Smart Technologies for Sustainable Development of the Urban Environment under Global Change” of the Agrarian and Technological Institute of RUDN University.
Maria Semina
Moscow, Russia
Moscow, Russia
Maria is an expert geobotanist, a specialist in supplementary education, a biology teacher, and the curator of the Ecopatrol project. She actively participates in field trips and expeditions, enjoys terrarium keeping, is an eco-volunteer, and enjoys organizing both field and laboratory educational events. She loves to travel and discover new places, get to know people, and learn new skills.
