Soil biogeochemistry is driven by interlaced functions of diverse microorganisms. Understanding the connections between microbial functions and soil processes has been proven difficult due to the complexity of the soil ecosystem. Both experimental and numerical/mathematical models are needed in order to understand, upscale, and predict the effect these functions have on processes. Therefore, while their aesthetic and mathematical appeal is undeniable, microbial models are not just a pretty face; they serve as powerful tools for enhancing our understanding of the complex interactions between microorganisms, soils and climate, as well as the underlying mechanisms that regulate soil biogeochemistry. By integrating datasets and biological/physical principles, models can offer valuable insights into how microbial communities interact, respond and adapt to different habitat conditions and environmental stressors, ultimately influencing the cycles of carbon and nutrients in soils.
This interdisciplinary session aims to bring together modellers of different backgrounds working on the complexity of the soil microbial environment and its upscaling. For this, we invite modellers working both in silico, with individual-based and system-based approaches, and in situ/vitro, e.g. but not limited to synthetic microbial communities or microfluidic models. The session will serve as a platform for presenting new microbial models and discussing crucial aspects such as model validation, upscaling, and generalization.