Recent improvements in analytical techniques multiply the perspectives for molecular marker approaches. This session focuses on the application of various biomarkers/molecular proxies for tracing biogeochemical processes and transformations in terrestrial ecosystems as well as for reconstruction of paleoenvironments. We welcome studies on new methodological and analytical developments, especially GC-MS, LC-MS, pyrolysis and the coupling of biomarkers with stable isotope approaches and further techniques. Field studies and controlled condition experiments at a broad range of scales are highly welcome. This session is open to contributions analyzing biogeochemical cycles in the biosphere, pedosphere and lithosphere as well as their interfaces.